| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07915022B2 |
Carbonyl reductase, gene thereof and method of using the same
The present invention relates to a polypeptide having an activity to asymmetrically reduce (3S)-1-chloro-3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-4-phenyl-2-butanone to produce (2R,3S)-1-chloro-3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-4-phenyl-2-butanol isolated from a microorganism belonging to the genus Ogataea, a DNA encoding the polypeptide and a transformant that produces the polypeptide. The present invention moreover relates to a method of producing (2R,3S)-1-chloro-3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-4-phenyl-2-butanol utilizing the polypeptide or the transformant.Using the polypeptide or transformant of the present invention, optically active alcohols such as (2R,3S)-1-chloro-3-tert-butoxycarbonylamino-4-phenyl-2-butanol and the like can be produced efficiently. |
| US07915021B2 |
Mutant firefly luciferase
This invention relates to: the development of a mutant firefly luciferase in order to use dATP as a DNA polymerase substrate upon pyrosequencing, such luciferase being subjected to substrate specificity modification in a manner such that the dATP-induced activity alone is decreased while the ATP-induced activity is maintained; and a mutant firefly luciferase for which the proportion of activity induced by dATP to activity induced by ATP (dATP/ATP) is lower than that for the wild-type firefly luciferase, in which an amino acid identified based on homology analysis as corresponding with the 421st amino acid (glycine) of the amino acid sequence of the wild-type North American firefly (Photinus pyralis) luciferase has been substituted with a polar amino acid. |
| US07915014B2 |
Specialized oligonucleotides and their use in nucleic acid amplification and detection
Described herein are labeled probes and unlabeled oligonucleotides that are useful for use in nucleic acid amplification reactions. These probes and oligonucleotides are modified to alter their sensitivity to primer-independent 5′ exonuclease activity of a thermostable DNA polymerase relative to its corresponding unmodified counterpart. Non-symmetric polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and detection methods employing these labeled probes and unlabeled oligonucleotides are also described. Kits for nucleic acid amplification reactions including labeled probes and unlabeled oligonucleotides are also described. |
| US07915012B2 |
Methods for screening for inhibitors of TRPV2 activation
The present invention relates to a method for activation of TRPV2 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 2) using probenecid, more precisely a method for selecting a candidate for TRPV2 blocker using probenecid. Probenecid of the present invention works on TRPV2 specifically so that it facilitates the isolation of sensory neurons expressing TRPV2. Therefore, probenecid of the invention can be effectively used for the studies on TRPV2 mechanisms and the development of a TRPV2 based anodyne. |
| US07915010B1 |
DNA molecules encoding L-glutamate-gated chloride channels from Rhipicephalus sanguineus
The present invention relates in part to isolated nucleic acid molecules (polynucleotides) which encode Rhipicephalus sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels. The present invention also relates to recombinant vectors and recombinant hosts which contain a DNA fragment encoding R. sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels, substantially purified forms of associated R. sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels and recombinant membrane fractions comprising these proteins, associated mutant proteins, and methods associated with identifying compounds which modulate associated Rhipicephalus sanguineus glutamate gated chloride channels, which will be useful as insecticides. |
| US07915006B2 |
Methodologies, processes and automated devices for the orientation, sampling and collection of seed tissues from individual seed
Apparatus, methods, and systems for high throughput, useful sampling of seed, wherein viability is optionally maintained, are disclosed. Seed from one generation in a plant advancement experiment is individually sampled by removal and collection of tissue from the seed. The tissue is then processed to derive one or more biochemical, genetic, or phenotypic characteristic of the seed before a decision is made whether to utilize that seed further in a plant advancement experiment or other plant research and development. In some embodiments of the method, the sampling is controlled to remove a useful amount of tissue for analytical purposes without significant effect on viability potential of the sampled seed. In some embodiments, the sampling is controlled to deter contamination of the sample. In some embodiments, the seed is automatically positioned and oriented to facilitate efficient and accurate sampling. |
| US07915000B2 |
Polypeptides and antibodies derived from chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells and uses thereof
Small animal models for assessing immunomodulatory effects of compounds are provided. |
| US07914999B2 |
Non-denaturing lysis reagent
The invention provides a lysis reagent and method for preparing a test sample for use in an assay, wherein the method yields a homogeneous lysis mixture suitable for use in automated pipetting systems without the need for a centrifugation step. The lysis reagent includes a glycol and an alcohol. Other aspects of the invention include related immunoassays and test kits. |
| US07914996B2 |
Polynucleotide associated with a colon cancer comprising single nucleotide polymorphism, microarray and diagnostic kit comprising the same and method for diagnosing a colon cancer using the polynucleotide
Provided is a polynucleotide including at least 10 contiguous nucleotides of a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of nucleotide sequences of SEQ ID NOS: 1-12 and including a nucleotide at position 101 of the nucleotide sequence, or a complementary polynucleotide thereof. |
| US07914995B2 |
Reaction mixture for pyrophosphorolysis activated polymerization (PAP)
A novel method of pyrophosphorolysis activated polymerization (PAP) has been developed. In PAP, pyrophosphorolysis and polymerization by DNA polymerase are coupled serially for each amplification by using an activatable oligonucleotide P* that has a non-extendible 3′-deoxynucleotide at its 3′ terminus. PAP can be applied for exponential amplification or for linear amplification. PAP can be applied to amplification of a rare allele in admixture with one or more wild-type alleles by using an activatable oligonucleotide P* that is an exact match at its 3′ end for the rare allele but has a mismatch at or near its 3′ terminus for the wild-type allele. PAP is inhibited by a mismatch in the 3′ specific sequence as far as 16 nucleotides away from the 3′ terminus. PAP can greatly increase the specificity of detection of an extremely rare mutant allele in the presence of the wild-type allele. Specificity results from both pyrophosphorolysis and polymerization since significant nonspecific amplification requires the combination of mismatch pyrophosphorolysis and misincorporation by the DNA polymerase, an extremely rare event. Using genetically engineered DNA polymerases greatly improves the efficiency of PAP. |
| US07914991B2 |
Nucleolipids and use thereof, and devices for nucleic acid analysis
The invention relates to a method for isolating and/or identifying known or unknown, nucleic acid sequences (target sequences) which are marked, optionally, with reporter groups, by base specific hybridisation with, essentially, complementary sequences, which belong to a library or sequences. The sample sequences are characterised in that they support, on one of the termini thereof (5′-ends or 3′-ends, preferably on 5′-ends), a single double or multi-chained lipid part, which spreads in a monomolecular layer on a liquid gas or liquid-liquid phase boundary layer. The invention also relates to a system for detecting or isolating nucleic acids. |
| US07914990B2 |
Methods and products for in vitro genotyping
An in vitro method for genotyping genetic variations in a individual, and products for use in the method. |
| US07914987B2 |
Methods and compositions for use in analyte detection using proximity probes
Methods and compositions for detecting an analyte in a sample are provided. In practicing the subject methods, a sample is combined with at least a pair of proximity probes that each include an analyte binding domain and a nucleic acid domain. The resultant mixture is then contacted with a pair of asymmetric nucleic acid connectors. Proximity dependent connector mediated interaction between the nucleic acid domains of the proximity probes is then detected to determine the presence of the analyte in the sample. Also provided are kits and systems for practicing the subject methods. |
| US07914986B2 |
Detection of amplicon contamination during PCR exhibiting two different annealing temperatures
A method to perform PCR reactions with one set of primers comprising sequence elements that are complementary to the target sequence and comprising sequence elements that server as tagging sequences. By conducting amplification reactions at different temperatures, the presence of contaminations arising from amplification products of previous reactions can be determined, improving reliability of the reaction and reducing the need for control reactions and reproduction of reactions. |
| US07914985B2 |
Alanine transaminase enzymes and methods of use
Novel alanine transaminase (ALT) polypeptides and the use thereof as a diagnostic marker to predict and monitor tissue damage and/or tissue malfunction. The ALT polypeptides are murine and/or rattus ALT polypeptides and said ALT polypeptides are used to detect, predict and/or determine hepatic processes of an animal, particularly mice and/or rats. |
| US07914981B2 |
Detection of nucleic acid sequence differences using the ligase detection reaction with addressable arrays
The present invention describes a method for identifying one or more of a plurality of sequences differing by one or more single base changes, insertions, deletions, or translocations in a plurality of target nucleotide sequences. The method includes a ligation phase, a capture phase, and a detection phase. The ligation phase utilizes a ligation detection reaction between one oligonucleotide probe, which has a target sequence-specific portion and an addressable array-specific portion, and a second oligonucleotide probe, having a target sequence-specific portion and a detectable label. After the ligation phase, the capture phase is carried out by hybridizing the ligated oligonucleotide probes to a solid support with an array of immobilized capture oligonucleotides at least some of which are complementary to the addressable array-specific portion. Following completion of the capture phase, a detection phase is carried out to detect the labels of ligated oligonucleotide probes hybridized to the solid support. |
| US07914979B2 |
Stable and filterable enveloped virus formulations
Envelope viruses (e.g. Newcastle disease virus (NDV)) are formulated for storage at moderately cold temperatures (e.g. −20° C.). The formulation is an aqueous solution containing the enveloped virus at a concentration of from 106 PFU/mL to 1012 PFU/mL; and a non-reducing saccharide (e.g. sucrose). When the non-reducing saccharide is a disaccharide it is present in the solution at a concentration of from 5% (w/v) to 50% (w/v), and when it is a monosaccharide it is present in the solution at a concentration of from 2.5% (w/v) to 25% (w/v). The solution has an osmotic pressure of about 250 mOs or higher, and has a pH of from 5 to 10. |
| US07914976B2 |
Production method for electroluminescent element
The present invention provides a method for manufacturing an EL element including an organic EL layer forming process of forming an organic EL layer on a substrate, on which at least an electrode layer is formed; a peeling layer forming process of forming a peeling layer on the organic EL layer; a photoresist layer forming process of forming a photoresist layer on the peeling layer, a photoresist layer patterning process of patterning the photoresist layer by exposing and developing; an organic EL layer developing process of removing the organic EL layer of a part not covered with the photoresist layer; and a peeling layer peeling process of removing the photoresist layer laminated thereon by peeling off the peeling layer. |
| US07914969B2 |
Storage medium, reproducing method, and recording method
According to one embodiment, a write-once type information storage medium comprises a recording layer which is formed by mixing a plurality of organic dye based recording materials whose molecular weights are different from each other, and wherein a mixture ratio of organic dye based recording materials whose molecular weight is small is larger than a mixture ratio of organic dye based recording materials whose molecular weight is large. |
| US07914963B2 |
Toner composition
The present invention is a toner that includes a polymeric binder and a polyethylene wax or ester wax. A dispersing agent of poly(ethylene vinyl acetate) is included in the toner that dispersed the wax and reduces the amount of free wax particles. |
| US07914957B2 |
Production method for color filter
The present invention provides a production method for a color filter including forming a first colored layer on a support, forming a photoresist layer on the first colored layer, forming an image on the first colored layer by removing the photoresist layer in the form of an image pattern, etching the first colored layer in the form of the image formed in the forming the image by use of a dry etching process that uses a mixed gas in which a fluorine-based gas and oxygen (O2) are mixed at a mixing ratio (fluorine-based gas/O2), by flow rate ratio, in the range of from 2/1 to 8/1, and removing the photoresist layer remaining after the etching. |
| US07914956B2 |
Dye-containing negative working curable composition, color filter and production method thereof
The invention provides a dye-containing negative working curable composition comprising at least a dye, a photopolymerization initiator, a polymerizable monomer, and a colorless compound having a number average molecular weight of 1,000 to 5,000, wherein the ratio of an alkali-soluble resin to the total solid content of the composition is 10% by mass or less. |
| US07914953B2 |
Photomask and pattern formation method using the same
A photomask includes: a transparent substrate having a transparent property against exposing light; a first light-shielding pattern formed on the transparent substrate and having a first dimension; a second light-shielding pattern formed on the transparent substrate and having a second dimension larger than the first dimension; and an opening provided in part of the transparent substrate where the first light-shielding pattern and the second light-shielding pattern are not formed. The first light-shielding pattern includes a first semi-light-shielding portion and an auxiliary pattern which is arranged within the first semi-light-shielding portion and allows the exposing light to pass through in an opposite phase with respect to the first semi-light-shielding portion. The second light-shielding pattern includes a second semi-light-shielding portion and a light-shielding portion which does not substantially allow the exposing light to pass through. |
| US07914951B2 |
Method of correcting pattern critical dimension of photomask
A method of correcting a pattern critical dimension of a photomask includes forming a phase shift layer and a light blocking pattern on a substrate, measuring a critical dimension (CD) of the light blocking pattern, and forming a negative resist pattern that has a relatively smaller CD than the CD of the light blocking pattern on the light blocking pattern, and correcting the CD of the light blocking pattern by etching the light blocking pattern exposed by the negative resist pattern. The method may further include forming a phase shift pattern by etching the phase shift layer exposed by the corrected light blocking pattern and the negative resist pattern as an etch mask, and removing the negative resist pattern and the corrected light blocking pattern. |
| US07914950B2 |
Method and resulting structure for mosaic of multi-transmission rate optical mask structures
A reticle device. The device has a quartz substrate, which has a surface region. A first region comprising a plurality of binary mask patterns is formed on a first portion of the surface region. A second region comprising a plurality of first phase shift mask patterns is formed on a second portion of the surface region. A third region comprising a plurality of second phase shift mask patterns is formed on a third portion of the surface region. Accordingly, the reticle device has at least three different regions corresponding to different optical characteristics. |
| US07914946B2 |
Cathode side hardware for carbonate fuel cells
Carbonate fuel cathode side hardware having a thin coating of a conductive ceramic formed from one of LSC (La0.8Sr0.2CoO3) and lithiated NiO (LixNiO, where x is 0.1 to 1). |
| US07914944B2 |
Atmosphere open type fuel cell
There is provided a fuel cell including a fuel cell unit having a membrane electrode assembly having catalyst layers provided on both surfaces of a polymer electrolyte membrane, the membrane electrode assembly being sandwiched between an oxidizer electrode and a fuel electrode; the fuel cell unit further including a gas diffusion layer laminated on the catalyst layer on a oxidizer electrode side; a flow path forming member provided on the gas diffusion layer; and a support member surrounding a portion where the gas diffusion layer comes into contact with the membrane electrode assembly; the support member being disposed in a position between the flow path forming member and the polymer electrolyte membrane, the position being opposed, with respect to the polymer electrolyte membrane, to a sealing material disposed on a side of the fuel electrode, for sealing the fuel electrode. |
| US07914943B2 |
Integrated seal for fuel cell assembly and fuel cell stack
A solid polymer fuel cell comprising a membrane electrode assembly that is in adhesive contact with a first flow field plate around the circumferential edge of the membrane electrode assembly and in non-adhesive contact with a second flow field plate, and an elastomeric manifold seal member that circumscribes at least one manifold opening of the first flow field plate and the second flow field plate. In this configuration, the adhesive substantially seals a first reactant gas while the manifold seal member substantially seals a second reactant gas, thereby improving sealing reliability and simplifying the seal design without overly compressing and damaging the circumferential edge of the membrane electrode assembly. |
| US07914938B2 |
Flat fuel cell combining a runner plate and conducting layer
The present invention relates to a flat fuel cell combining runner plates and a conducting layer. The flat fuel cell includes two runner plates and a conducting layer between the runner plates. There are conducting blocks embedded into the predefined locations on the assembly surfaces of two runner plates. A concave flow passage is shaped by the assembly surfaces of runner plates and the conducting blocks, thus providing a unique structure combining the runner plates and conducting layer. The conducting blocks are electrically connected through the contact of convex flanges on the conducting blocks. Thus, the flat fuel cells are developed thin, making it possible to greatly reduce manufacturing assembly costs without the need of electric wires and to achieve better economic efficiency and applicability. |
| US07914933B2 |
Process and apparatus for producing hydrogen
A process and apparatus for producing hydrogen for a fuel cell by (a) reacting a fuel comprising a hydrocarbon and/or an oxygenate with steam, under steam reforming conditions in a reforming reactor to produce a product stream comprising hydrogen, (b) feeding at least part of the hydrogen produced in step a) to a fuel cell, to produce electric power and a waste stream comprising hydrogen, (c) reacting at least part of the waste stream from step b) with an oxygen-containing gas in a combustion reactor, and (d) using the heat energy produced in step c) to supply energy to the steam reforming reaction in step a) in which the combustion reactor is positioned within the reforming reactor to facilitate heat transfer between the stages. |
| US07914930B2 |
Method for producing non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery having both high capacity and long-life is provided by solving the problem of the large irreversible capacity of a negative electrode active material. The non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery is produced by a method including the steps of: reacting lithium with a negative electrode active material by bringing a metal film that is composed mainly of lithium into contact with a surface of a negative electrode active material layer; and thereafter combining the negative electrode with a positive electrode to form an electrode assembly. The metal film composed mainly of lithium is preferably formed on a carrier that does not chemically react with lithium, and the metal film on the carrier is preferably brought into contact with the negative electrode active material layer while heating and applying a pressure thereto. |
| US07914921B2 |
Enhanced separators for zinc negative electrodes
The present invention discloses enhanced separators for storage batteries with zinc negative electrodes. These enhanced separators include a separator layer and one or more resistive layers on said separator layer. The dimensions of the one or more resistive layers are less than or equal to that of the separator layer. Portions of the separator layer can also be treated with a PTFE suspension to increase the resistance at those portions. For storage batteries where the resistance along two edges of the separator layer has to be larger then the center, the enhanced separator include said resistive layers where each layer includes two independent parts positioned along the two edges of the separator layer. The edge portions of the separator layer can also be treated with a PTFE suspension. Using these enhanced separators in storage batteries with zinc negative electrodes can increase the capacity and prolong the life of the batteries. These enhanced separators are also simple, easy to manufacture, and low in cost. |
| US07914920B2 |
Battery separator
A battery includes a separator with a trapping layer that traps dissolved metal ions. |
| US07914919B2 |
Battery fastening assembly
A battery fastening assembly for fastening a battery to a housing includes a hook and a positioning portion formed on the battery, and a slot defined in the housing, and a positioning portion formed on the housing. The slot is configured to engage with the hook, and the positioning portion of the housing is configured to engage with the positioning portion on the battery. The hook is slidable in the slot so that the battery is slidable relative to the housing and to make the positioning portion of the battery engage with or disengage from the positioning portion of the housing. |
| US07914917B2 |
Hybrid power supply unit
A hybrid power supply unit, comprises a high-capacity nonaqueous electrolyte battery group and a high-power nonaqueous electrolyte battery group different in discharge characteristics connected to each other in parallel. The high-capacity nonaqueous electrolyte battery group has a 0.2 C discharge capacity per cell greater than that of the high-power nonaqueous electrolyte battery group, and the high-power nonaqueous electrolyte battery group has a rate of 5 C discharge capacity per cell to 0.2 C discharge capacity per cell (5 C discharge capacity/0.2 C discharge capacity) greater than that of the high-capacity nonaqueous electrolyte battery group. |
| US07914916B2 |
Thermally stable high anisotropic high magnetic moment films
High magnetic moment films FeCo(X, Y), where X is a transition metal element and Y is a rare earth element are formed using off-axis static deposition techniques. The films have tunable magnetic anisotropy from 0 Oe to greater than 500 Oe that are thermally stable beyond nominal photoresist curing temperatures. By using off-axis static deposited FeCo(X, Y) films as seed layers to normally deposited FeCo films, inplane anisotropy and the magnetic moment can be controlled for specific design needs. Epitaxial-like growth (column-to-column matching) from the off-axis static FeCo(X,Y) seed layers to normally deposited FeCo films is attributed to sustained anisotropy in the entire film. |
| US07914913B2 |
Al2O3 ceramic tool with diffusion bonding enhanced layer
The present invention relates to ceramic cutting tools, such as, a aluminum oxide with zirconium oxide ceramic cutting tool with diffusion bonding enhanced layer and CVD coatings, particularly useful for machining modern metal materials. The method comprises a chemical reaction with a mixture including nitrogen and aluminum chloride introduced to form a diffusion bonding enhanced layer between the ceramic substrate and the CVD coatings. Thus formed diffusion bonding is highly adherent to the aluminum oxide with zirconium oxide ceramic substrate and significantly enhances the CVD coating properties, and thus improving the machining performance in terms of the tool life of zirconium-based aluminum oxide with zirconium oxide ceramic cutting tools. |
| US07914902B2 |
Thermal module
A thermal module directly press-forged from magnesium alloy is disclosed having a peripheral wall, a recessed chamber surrounded by the peripheral wall. The body is made of magnesium alloy by means of softening magnesium alloy with heat and then press forging softened magnesium alloy into the desired shape. |
| US07914900B2 |
Multiple layer polymeric structure
The present invention provides a receptacle (30) for a therapeutic fluid susceptible to deterioration on exposure to a gas such as oxygen or carbon dioxide. The receptacle (30) has walls of sheet material each including at least one layer forming a barrier essentially impermeable to such gas, and a seal sealing the walls together in a region thereof. A transfer tube (40) is sealed in the seal having a proximal end in the receptacle (30), a distal end accessible from outside the receptacle (30), a flow passage (56) extending between said proximal and distal ends, and a closure (54) blocking flow through the flow passage (56) adapted to be pierced by a tubular needle for transfer of therapeutic through the needle. The transfer tube (40) and closure (54) are essentially impermeable to said gas. |
| US07914895B2 |
Moisture curable hot melt adhesive composition
A moisture curable hot melt adhesive composition includes a polyurethane prepolymer, optionally a tackifying resin, and optionally a thermoplastic polymer. The polyurethane prepolymer includes a reaction product of an amorphous polyester polyol, a polyisocyanate, and a crystalline monofunctional alcohol that has a melting point of no less than about 80° C. |
| US07914893B2 |
Particles comprising an anion-binding layer containing anion-forming organic active compounds, and method of making and using thereof
Disclosed are particles containing substrates and an anion-binding layer, containing one or more anion-forming organic active compounds or active compound/colorant mixtures; processes for preparing said particles and to methods of use thereof in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, formulations, paints, coatings, plastics, films, in security printing, in security features in documents or identity papers, for coloring seed, for coloring foods or in medicament coatings and for the preparation of pigment compositions and dry preparations. |
| US07914892B2 |
Composition and method for making a proppant
The present invention relates to proppants which can be used to prop open subterranean formation fractions. Proppant formulations are further disclosed which use one or more proppants of the present invention. Methods to prop open subterranean formation fractions are further disclosed. In addition, other uses for the proppants of the present invention are further disclosed, as well as methods of making the proppants. |
| US07914889B2 |
Wound management fibres
A wound management fibre comprising a base fibre having a chitosan material associated therewith, characterised in that the wound management fibre has a significant proportion of chitosan associated therewith. |
| US07914886B2 |
Structural component comprising boron nitride agglomerated powder
A novel composite structural component including novel boron nitride agglomerated powders and a matrix is provided having controlled density and fracture strength features. In addition methods for producing the novel boron nitride agglomerated powders are provided. One method calls for providing a feedstock powder including boron nitride agglomerates, and heat treating the feedstock powder to form a heat treated boron nitride agglomerated powder. In one embodiment the feedstock powder has a controlled crystal size. In another, the feedstock powder is derived from a bulk source. |
| US07914881B2 |
PLA film with good sliding and antistatic properties
The invention relates to a multi-layer biaxially oriented film comprising a base layer and at least one covering layer. Said covering layer comprises at least one polymer of at least one hydroxycarboxylic acid, and contains between 2 and 10 wt. % of a glycerine fatty acid ester and up to 0.5 wt. % of mica. |
| US07914878B2 |
Grooved, corner-ready wall base
A resilient wall base member manufactured with pre-scored grooves to allow relatively short, straight lengths to be used for both flat walls and wall corner junctures without on site scoring operations or equipment. The lengths can either be pre-cut during manufacturing to convenient lengths or can be cut after manufacturing from coils. |
| US07914877B2 |
Ceramic thin plate member
A thin plate member has a uniform thickness of not less than 5 μm and not more than 100 μm, includes at least a ceramic sheet, formed by sintering. The thin plate member has plural convex portions protruding from one plane P of the thin plate member, and plural concave portions caved in from the plane P. Accordingly, the deflection amount obtained when the thin plate member is supported at a predetermined support section of the thin plate member in a direction orthogonal to the plane P is smaller than the deflection amount of a thin plate member that is flat without having convex and concave portions. Therefore, a thin plate member which is difficult to be deformed is provided. |
| US07914875B2 |
Polymer hybrid membrane structures
Hybrid membrane structures that include: an inorganic porous support that includes first and second ends, and a plurality of inner channels having surfaces defined by porous walls and extending through the support from the first to the second ends; optionally, one or more porous inorganic intermediate layers coating the inner channel surfaces; and a polymeric amine-containing membrane. |
| US07914874B2 |
Fugitive pore former for porous ceramic articles
Disclosed are ceramic batch compositions for forming porous ceramic articles. The ceramic forming precursor batch compositions include ceramic forming inorganic batch components and a cyclododecane pore forming agent. Also disclosed are methods for manufacturing porous ceramic articles. |
| US07914872B2 |
Segmented insulative device and related kit
A segmented insulative device and related kit for insulating components of a thermal distribution system. The kit includes a sheet of segmented insulation formed by a composite layer of segmented, flexible, pre-sewn insulation that is easily cut to size in the field using scissors, utility knives or other simple, hand-held cutting devices. The kit also includes two-sided hook-and-loop straps as fasteners, also easily cut to length, using hand-held devices. The segmented insulation and the hook-and-loop straps are attached to one another in the field using a stapler or other hand-held attachment device. This provides an installation kit that an installer can use to provide a versatile insulation in the form of the assembled segmented insulative device. The segmented insulative device lends itself to quick customization on-site rather than requiring costly off-site manufacture or pre-assembly and subsequent quick installation on the pipe component requiring thermal installation. |
| US07914869B2 |
Mobile device label with negative image feature
An adhesive label is configured to be wrapped around an apparatus and to outline a predetermined image having first and second components. A first facestock has opposite first and second edges that come into proximity with one another when the label is wrapped around the apparatus. The first edge includes first contours that outline the first component of the predetermined image, and the second edge includes second contours that outline the second component. A multilayer sheet assembly comprises the adhesive label, wherein the first facestock inner surface includes a lined portion that is covered by a release liner, and an unlined portion that is not covered by the release liner. The sheet assembly further comprises a second facestock that covers at least some of the unlined portion of the first facestock inner surface, and is adhered thereto using an adhesive. |
| US07914867B2 |
Medical gas barrier film and medical bag using the same
The object of the present invention is to provide a gas barrier film suitable for medical uses, which is excellent in gas and vapor properties and can prevent ingredients of an adhesive and the like from eluting even after heating and sterilizing treatment, and a medical bag using the gas barrier film. A medical gas barrier film of the present invention comprises a multilayer gas barrier film 10 including a deposition oriented polyester layer 11 having a deposited layer 13 of an inorganic oxide on one surface, an oriented polyamide layer 15 adhered to the surface of the deposited layer 13 and a polyethylene layer 17 adhered to the surface on the opposite side to an adhered surface 15a of the oriented polyamide layer 15, and a multilayer substrate film 22 including a cyclic olefin polymer layer 25, an elastomer layers 24, 26 and a heat sealing layer 23, and the multilayer substrate film 22 is adhered to an other surface 11b on the opposite side of the deposited layer of the deposition oriented polyester layer 11. |
| US07914866B2 |
Sleeved tissue product
A product including two or more plies with each ply including one absorbent layer and a second opposing fluid impervious layer. The two plies are arranged such that the fluid impervious layers face each other and are positioned at the inside of the two-ply product. The two plies are bonded on two or three sides to form a sleeve or a pocket, such that a hand can be inserted between the two plies and positioned in contact with one or both fluid impervious layers. In this manner, the product is absorbent on both sides, and can be utilized on both sides while preventing hand contact with the material absorbed or picked up by the product. |
| US07914862B2 |
Liquid crystal compound having negative dielectric anisotropy, liquid crystal composition, and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal compound is provided that has excellent characteristics, such as a negatively large dielectric anisotropy. A liquid crystal composition containing the compound, and a liquid crystal display device containing the composition are also provided. A compound having the three factors, i.e., (1) a tetrahydropyran ring, (2) —CH2O— or —OCH2— and (3) exhibits excellent characteristics including a negatively large dielectric anisotropy. The use of the compound having the characteristics provides an excellent liquid crystal composition and an excellent liquid crystal display device. |
| US07914857B2 |
Method of making heat treated coated article using diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating and protective film with oxygen content of protective film based on bending characteristics of coated article
There is provided a method of making a heat treated (HT) coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, or any other suitable applications where transparent coated articles are desired. The method may include heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least a layer of or including diamond-like carbon (DLC) or other type of carbon, with an oxygen barrier layer provided thereon directly or indirectly. Optionally, a release layer of a material such as zinc oxide or the like may be provided between the oxygen barrier layer and the DLC. In certain example embodiments, the oxygen content of at least part of the protective film when deposited may be determined based on whether the coated surface is to be bent in a convex manner, to be bent in a concave manner, or to remain flat. Following heat treatment, which may include bending the coated surface into a convex or concave shape, and quenching, the protective film may be removed by washing or the like. |
| US07914854B2 |
Film-forming composition
An SiO2-based film-forming composition giving a protective film which, after impurity diffusion, can be easily stripped off and which has a higher protective effect. The film-forming composition is one for forming a protective film which in the diffusion of an impurity into a silicon wafer, serves to partly prevent the impurity diffusion. This film-forming composition comprises a high-molecular silicon compound and a compound having a protective element which undergoes covalent bonding to the element to be diffused in the impurity diffusion and thereby comes to have eight valence electrons. The protective element is preferably gallium or aluminum when phosphorus is used as the element to be diffused, and is preferably tantalum, niobium, arsenic, or antimony when boron is used as the diffusion element. |
| US07914852B2 |
High temperature coating techniques for amorphous fluoropolymers
A coating technique for amorphous fluoropolymer involves adding amorphous fluoropolymer resin to a solvent. The resin solvent mixture is heated to a predetermined temperature above room temperature. The amorphous fluoropolymer resin is dissolved in a heated solvent, and the liquid coating solution is applied to a substrate. The solvent is then removed from the applied liquid coating solution. The coating technique may be employed in connection with liquid core waveguides. |
| US07914850B2 |
Method for producing nanostructures on a substrate
A method for producing nanostructures on a substrate, by dripping a solution of nanostructure-forming material in water onto the substrate heated to a temperature above the temperature at which a drop of the solution is initially suspended on a vapor cushion after being applied by dripping onto the substrate, with nanostructures being formed when the drops evaporate. |
| US07914849B2 |
Alumina layer with controlled texture
A new and refined method to produce α-Al2O3 layers in a temperature range of from about 750 to about 1000° C. with a controlled growth texture and substantially enhanced wear resistance and toughness than the prior art is disclosed. The α-Al2O3 layer of the present invention is formed on a bonding layer of (Ti,Al)(C,O,N) with increasing aluminium content towards the outer surface. Nucleation of α-Al2O3 is obtained through a nucleation step being composed of short pulses and purges consisting of Ti/Al-containing pulses and oxidising pulses. The α-Al2O3 layer according to the present invention has a thickness ranging from about 1 to about 20 μm and is composed of columnar grains. The length/width ratio of the alumina grains is from about 2 to about 12, preferably from about 4 to about 8. The layer is characterized by a strong (104) growth texture, measured using XRD, and by low intensity of (012), (110), (113), (024) and (116) diffraction peaks. |
| US07914838B2 |
Low carbohydrate fiber containing emulsion
An edible emulsion with insoluble fiber is described. The edible emulsion is suitable for use as a base for making reduced oil food products. The reduced oil food products made with the edible emulsion having insoluble fiber and diary ingredients have consumer acceptable viscosities and texture and sensorial properties consistent with full fat food products. |
| US07914835B2 |
Dog chew treats
A dog chew treat is fashioned from a composition comprising sugar, fiber, and flour. Preferably, the sugar is dextrose, and the flour is pre-gelatinized wheat flour. The composition may be molded into the shape of a bone, or other treat. A palatant coating may be applied to the molded product. Colors may be added for different aesthetics such as a marbling pattern. Functional ingredients may be used to provide health benefits. |
| US07914833B2 |
Heat-stable high-amylopectin starch
The invention relates to starch used in the baking-industry. Creams, (fruit-) fillings, toppings, glazes and other bakery products are often thickened by the inclusion of a certain amount of starch as binder, filling or thickening agent, for example providing gel-strength, viscosity, glaze, texture or creaminess to the cream or filling. Commonly used starches have insufficient stability to for example heat appled during baking. The invention provides a starch-containing filling or topping for a bakery product wherein said starch comprises a tuber or root starch containing less than about 5% amylose and use of such a filling or topping for improving a bakery product. Furthermore, the invention provides a heat-stable starch and bakery products comprising a heat-stable starch. |
| US07914832B2 |
Method for producing chlorella fermented food
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing a chlorella fermented food in which a flavor and odor that are peculiar to algae are reduced while production of pheophorbide is suppressed. The method for producing a chlorella fermented food according to the present invention can be achieved by using a chlorella negative in coliform bacteria count, and having a content of free pheophorbide equal to or less than 18 mg % and a viable general bacteria count equal to or less than 8000 cfu/mL, or using a chlorella subjected to a heat sterilization treatment to ferment the chlorella with a baker's yeast. The baker's yeast is blended with the chlorella at a ratio of preferably 0.1 to 15% by weight. Further, the fermentation treatment is preferably carried out in the presence of glucose and a lactic acid bacterium. |
| US07914824B2 |
Herbal extract for renal disorders
The present invention relates to the use of standardized extract of Tinospora cordifolia as an immunoadjuvant in the treatment of renal disorders such as nephrotic syndrome and chronic recurrent urinary tract infections, both complicated and uncomplicated.The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the standardized extract of Tinospora cordifolia. The present invention further relates to a method of treatment of renal disorders such as recurrent urinary tract infection particularly occurring due to relapsing E. coli, Klebsiella and other gram negative infections and to a method of treatment of nephrotic syndrome using standardized extract of Tinospora cordifolia as an immunoadjuvant in conjunction with conventional therapy. |
| US07914819B1 |
Polysaccharide-based biomaterials
Disclosed are a series of kneadable, pliable polymers for use in forming compositions that can be used as bone wax or as a cellular scaffold. Polymers can include a polysaccharide backbone and can be biocompatible and thrombogenic. In addition, the compositions can be osteoconductive as well as biodegradable. The disclosed compositions can be used to help control bleeding from bone surfaces as well as to promote bone regeneration and fusion. The compositions can inhibit the growth of microorganisms in implantation sites and can be loaded with additional bioactive agents to further promote healing and infection prevention. |
| US07914818B2 |
Opioid agonist formulations with releasable and sequestered antagonist
Disclosed are oral dosage forms, comprising (i) a therapeutically effective amount of an opioid agonist; (ii) an opioid antagonist in releasable form; and (iii) a sequestered opioid antagonist which is not released when the dosage form is administered intact, and methods thereof. |
| US07914817B2 |
Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis are treated either orally or intravenously with methylol transfer agents, such as taurolidine and/or taurultam. These agents can be used in combination with other drugs thereby allowing the use of smaller amounts of the other drugs and limiting unwanted side effects. |
| US07914813B2 |
Interface for transdermal drug administration device
It is intended to provide an interface for a transdermal drug administration device that can supply a drug almost evenly and favorably from a plurality of projections through skin. This interface for a transdermal drug administration device has a flat plate 8. The flat plate 8 comprises a plurality of two-dimensionally arranged conical or pyramidal projections 6 capable of piercing skin and a plurality of openings 7 capable of delivering a drug which are respectively arranged in correspondence with the projections. The openings 7 are respectively arranged in proximity to their corresponding projections 6. The flat plate 8 can be made of a metal or ceramics. The ratio between the number of the openings and the number of the projections can be 1:1 to 1:2. |
| US07914812B2 |
Wound care dressing and method using same
A wound care dressing is disclosed. The wound care dressing comprises one or more nonwoven blankets, where each nonwoven blanket comprises a plurality of fibers, where each of the plurality of fibers are formed from one or more saccharides in optional combination with one or more medicaments. The invention further comprises a method to treat wounds using the wound care dressing as a transcutaneous pulsatile drug delivery system that may be used externally (e.g. skin, bones, cartilage, and organs) or internally (e.g. internal surface of a blood vessel). |
| US07914809B2 |
Lubricious composites for medical devices
A medical device having at least one composite region thereon formed of composite material comprising a polymer and a fluorinated sol-gel derived ceramic. The composite material is useful as a coating material for imparting a low coefficient of friction to a substrate. |
| US07914805B2 |
Implantable or insertable medical devices containing radiation-treated polymer for improved delivery of therapeutic agent
An implantable or insertable medical device which comprises (a) a therapeutic agent and (b) a polymeric release region comprising a polymer. The polymeric release region is treated with a radiation dose that is effective to substantially increase the cumulative release of the therapeutic agent subsequent to administration to a patient. The polymeric release region can be, for example, (a) a carrier region that comprises the therapeutic agent or (b) a barrier region that is disposed over a therapeutic-agent-containing region that comprises the therapeutic agent. The present invention is further directed to methods of forming such medical devices, methods of releasing a therapeutic agent within a patient using such medical devices, and methods of modulating the release of a therapeutic agent from such medical devices. |
| US07914804B2 |
Slow release pharmaceutical preparation and method of administering same
A pharmaceutical preparation adopted for sustained release of an active agent(s) over an extended period of time at a therapeutic rate without an initial burst release of the agent(s) upon administration, wherein the preparation comprises: (i) an outer portion prepared from one or more layers of a biodegradable polymer, which is selected to release an active agent over an extended period of time when positioned in situ in a patient, and (ii) an inner portion comprising a plurality of micro-capsules formed from at least a biodegradable polymer, said micro capsules containing at least an active agent, wherein the micro-capsules are compressed into the form of a tablet under suitable pressure to suppress the rate of release of the active agent from the micro-capsules. The present specification also relates to a method for inserting one or more implants(s) into a tissue of a mammal comprising the following steps: a) making a small incision into the tissue with a needle and a first sheath; b) withdrawing the needle from the first sheath but leaving the first sheath in the tissue; c) dilating the opening of the incision by inserting a dilator and second sheath of larger diameter through the body of the first sheath; d) withdrawing the dilator from the second sheath, but leaving the second sheath in the tissue; e) disturbing the implant(s) from a sheath filled with implant(s) by inserting said sheath into the final sheath inserted into the tissue and pushing a dilator into the sheath thereby releasing said implant(s) into the tissue. |
| US07914803B2 |
Ophthalmic compositions containing a synergistic combination of three polymers
Ophthalmic compositions suitable for use as artificial tears or as vehicles for ophthalmic drugs are disclosed. The compositions contain a combination of three polymers that have a synergistic effect on viscosity. |
| US07914799B2 |
Anti-fungal composition
A multivalent fungal vaccine comprising one or more heat-inactivated fungal antigens, wherein at least one fungal antigen is effective in producing an immune response in a host when said vaccine is administered orally at a dose that is sufficient for preventing or treating the fungal disease in said host. Also described are methods for making and using an orally available anti-fungal vaccine. |
| US07914794B2 |
Group B streptococcus antigens
Group B streptococcus (GBS) proteins and polynucleotides encoding them are disclosed. Said proteins are antigenic and therefore useful vaccine components for the prophylaxis or therapy of streptococcus infection in animals. Also disclosed are recombinant methods of producing the protein antigens as well as diagnostic assays for detecting streptococcus bacterial infection. |
| US07914793B2 |
Method for producing an antigenic substance and antibody
This invention provides antigen substance inductors which produce highly selective and/or specific vaccine precursor, vaccine, antibody (including idiotype antibody), neutralizing antibody, antitoxin.This invention is to produce and/or manufacture highly selective and/or specific vaccine precursor, vaccine, antibody (including idiotype antibody), neutralizing antibody, antitoxin by quantum thermodynamic and chemical control of molecular functions and morphogenesis, inducing non-functional complex macromolecules which form organism and/or non-organism and which become to be substance with fundamental structure more closed to an induction of the functions, utilizing the fundamental structure of molecule which is indicated in Formula 3-a as a representative molecule. Moreover, by those produced substances, this invention is to produce and/or manufacture antimicrobial agent, antiviral agent, neutralizing antibody, antitoxin, antitumor agent, anti-protozoa agent (malaria, spirochaeta et. al), molecular discriminating agent, antibody as labeled compounds, histocompatible accelerator on tissues or organs, immuno-response accelerator or immuno-response controller, complement chain reaction accelerator. |
| US07914788B2 |
Monoclonal antibodies against orthopoxviruses
The present invention relates to monoclonal antibodies that bind or neutralize Orthopoxviruses. The invention provides such antibodies, fragments of such antibodies retaining B5 or A33 binding ability, fully human antibodies retaining B5 or A33 binding ability, and pharmaceutical compositions including such antibodies. The invention further provides for isolated nucleic acids encoding the antibodies of the invention and host cells transformed therewith. Additionally, the invention provides for prophylactic, therapeutic, and diagnostic methods employing the antibodies and nucleic acids of the invention. |
| US07914787B2 |
Production and use of novel peptide-based agents with bispecific antibodies
The present invention relates to a bi-specific antibody or antibody fragment having at least one arm that specifically binds a targeted tissue and at least one other arm that specifically binds a targetable construct. The targetable construct comprises a carrier portion which comprises or bears at least one epitope recognizable by at least one arm of said bi-specific antibody or antibody fragment. The targetable construct further comprises one or more therapeutic or diagnostic agents or enzymes. The invention provides constructs and methods for producing the bi-specific antibodies or antibody fragments, as well as methods for using them. |
| US07914783B2 |
Pharmacological vitreolysis
Methods of treating or preventing a disorder, or a complication of a disorder, of an eye of a subject, comprising contacting a vitreous and/or aqueous humor with a composition comprising a truncated form of plasmin comprising a catalytic domain of plasmin (TPCD) are disclosed. TPCDs include, but are not limited to, miniplasmin, microplasmin and derivatives and variants thereof. The methods of the invention can be used to reduce the viscosity of the vitreous, liquefy the vitreous, induce posterior vitreous detachment, reduce hemorrhagic blood from the eye, clear or reduce materials toxic to the eye, clear or reduce intraocular foreign substances from the eye, increase diffusion of a composition administered to an eye, reduce extraretinal neovascularization and any combinations thereof. The method can be used in the absence of, or as an adjunct to, vitrectomy. |
| US07914782B2 |
Enzymes for reduced immunological stress
Compositions suitable for oral administration to an animal comprising at least one immune stress-reducing enzyme in an amount effective to decrease the level of positive acute phase protein in an animal, increase the level of negative acute phase protein in an animal, and/or improve animal growth performance is provided, as are methods using such compositions. The compositions include animal feed compositions, liquid compositions other than animal feed, and solid compositions other than animal feed. |
| US07914779B2 |
Tissue matrices comprising placental stem cells, and methods of making the same
A method of manufacturing a tissue matrix for implantation into a patient is disclosed. The method sets forth collecting embryonic stem cells from a placenta which has been treated to remove residual cord blood and seeding the collected stem cells onto or into a tissue matrix. The seeded tissue matrix is then implanted on or into a patient. The seeded tissue matrix made by the method of the present invention is also disclosed. |
| US07914778B2 |
Methods of treatment using IL-16 antagonist peptides
The present invention has found that a series of peptides having sequences that substantially correspond to specific regions of the C-terminus of IL-16 can inhibit the activity of IL-16. The present invention has demonstrated that such IL-16-inhibiting peptides can be as short as 4 amino acids in length. Based on these discoveries, the present invention provides IL-16 antagonist peptides and the use thereof for the treatment of IL-16 mediated disorders such as certain inflammatory diseases. |
| US07914777B2 |
Gellable ant bait matrix
Ant foods mixed together in a matrix suitable to be used as baits for ants are provided. This ant matrix is preferred by ants over naturally-occurring foods such as other known ant matrices. It comprises protein, carbohydrate, fat and sterol as ant-preferred nutrients and uric acid as a bait enhancing agent is carried in a unique gel system that is specifically attractive to insects. Methods of controlling ants using such matrices to deliver ant toxins are also provided. |
| US07914772B2 |
Sunscreen composite particles dispersed in water-in-oil cosmetic compositions
A cosmetic water-in-oil emulsion composition is provided which includes composite particles of a sunscreen agent and a condensation polymerized polyamide binder, an emulsifying silicone surfactant sufficient to form the water-in-oil emulsion, an oil phase, and a water phase. The composition exhibits relatively high SPF photoprotection while maintaining excellent soft focus properties that hide skin imperfections. |
| US07914769B2 |
Compounds for treating human papillomavirus
Methods and compositions for treating human papillomavirus infections are described. |
| US07914768B2 |
Stabiliser for radiopharmaceuticals
A stabilized radiopharmaceutical composition, a kit including same, and a method for making same, where the radiopharmaceutical is (i) susceptible to either reductive degradation or radiolysis and which includes a metal complex of a radionuclide with a ligand, (ii) a first stabilizer for the radiopharmaceutical which is an amino-substituted aromatic carboxylic acid or a salt, ester or amide thereof, and (iii) a second stabilizer for the radiopharmaceutical which is a diphosphonic acid or salt thereof. The first and second stabilizers are present in an amount effective to stabilize the radiopharmaceutical, and the radiopharmaceutical is not a metal complex of the diphosphonic acid. |
| US07914767B2 |
Oral DTPA for radionuclide chelation
A composition for oral radionuclide chelation therapy comprises a DTPA chelate selected from Zn-DTPA and Ca-DTPA and a permeation enhancer that preferentially increases jejunal uptake of the DTPA chelate. The composition has a DTPA chelate bioavailability of at least 10% of the chelate when orally administered to a mammal. |
| US07914762B2 |
Preparation method of chalcopyrite-type compounds with microwave irradiation
A method for preparing a chalcopyrite-type semiconductor compound which is widely used as a sunlight-absorbing material. More specifically, disclosed is a method for preparing a chalcopyrite-type compound, in which microwaves are used as heat sources in the preparation of the chalcopyrite-type compound, and the chalcopyrite-type compound can be produced in a large amount in a short reaction time using a batch or continuous reactor. |
| US07914759B2 |
Production of bisphosphines
Bisphosphines are prepared by reacting a phosphine with a dihalide in the presence of an acid; characteristically, bisphosphonium compounds are initially formed and then converted into the bisphosphines. |
| US07914758B2 |
Captured CO2 from atmospheric, industrial and vehicle combustion waste
A CO2 control device and method for capturing CO2 from fluid flow, including: a flow-through apparatus and an CO2 absorbing filter treated with an alkaline material which is housed within the flow-through apparatus. The flow-through apparatus receives fluid flow and the CO2 from the fluid flow is absorbed by the CO2 absorbing filter. The absorbed CO2 is converted into CaCO3 which is combined with volcanic ash to form a useful cement material. |
| US07914754B2 |
Integrated production of FCC-produced C2 and ethyl benzene
Processing schemes and arrangements are provided for obtaining ethylene and ethane via the catalytic cracking of a heavy hydrocarbon feedstock and converting the ethylene into ethyl benzene without separating the ethane from the feed stream. The disclosed processing schemes and arrangements advantageously eliminate any separation of ethylene from ethane produced by a FCC process prior to using the combined ethylene/ethane stream as a feed for an ethyl benzene process. Further, heat from the alkylation reactor is used for one of the strippers of the FCC process and at least one bottoms stream from alkylation process is used as an absorption solvent in the FCC process. |
| US07914753B2 |
Analytical system, and analytical method and flow structure thereof
An analytical system includes a working fluid, a uniform dividing unit and a separating unit. The working fluid includes a first component and a second component with different characteristics. The uniform dividing unit is utilized to uniformly divide the working fluid and relatively rotated with respect to a reference axis. Under a capillarity force as well as the result of Coriolis force and siphon force, the first component can be separated from the second component by the separating unit. |
| US07914749B2 |
Clathrate hydrate modular storage, applications and utilization processes
Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to clathrate hydrate modular storage, applications and utilization processes. In one implementation, the present invention provides a method of creating scalable, easily deployable storage of natural gas and thermal energy by assembling an array of interconnecting, modular gas clathrate hydrate storage units. |
| US07914747B1 |
System and method for controlling and reducing NOx emissions
A system is provided for reducing NOx emission. The system includes a gas production source configured to produce a gas stream comprising NOx, and an oxidation catalyst positioned downstream of the gas production source. The oxidation catalyst is configured to oxidize NO gas molecules in the gas stream to yield higher order NxOy molecules. A removal system is positioned downstream of the oxidation catalyst and is configured to remove higher order NxOy molecules from the gas stream by solvent absorption or reaction. The system further includes a secondary NOx trimming system positioned downstream of the oxidation catalyst, wherein the secondary NOx trimming system is configured to inject a reactant into the gas stream, the reactant configured to react with NOx molecules present in the gas stream. |
| US07914745B2 |
Method of hydrogenating aldehydes and ketones
Methods and systems for the hydrogenation of aldehydes and/or ketones are described herein. The methods and systems incorporate the novel use of a high shear device to promote dispersion and solubility of the hydrogen-containing gas (e.g. H2 gas) in the aldehydes and/or ketones. The high shear device may allow for lower reaction temperatures and pressures and may also reduce hydrogenation time with existing catalysts. |
| US07914744B2 |
Method for making chlorohydrins
Methods and systems for the preparation of chlorohydrins are described herein. The methods and systems incorporate the novel use of a high shear device to promote dispersion and solubility of olefins into the chlorinating phase. The high shear device may allow for lower reaction temperatures and pressures and may also reduce chlorination time. |
| US07914743B2 |
Conversion of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to nitric oxide (NO)
Various systems, devices, NO2 absorbents, NO2 scavengers and NO2 recuperator for generating nitric oxide are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, an apparatus for converting nitrogen dioxide to nitric oxide can include a receptacle including an inlet, an outlet, a surface-active material coated with an aqueous solution of ascorbic acid and an absorbent wherein the inlet is configured to receive a gas flow and fluidly communicate the gas flow to the outlet through the surface-active material and the absorbent such that nitrogen dioxide in the gas flow is converted to nitric oxide. |
| US07914739B2 |
Continuous polymer synthesizer
Described is a system and method for synthesizing polymeric molecules such as oligonucleotides and polypeptides. The system is capable of continuously synthesizing molecules by providing an array of reaction sites and an array of stations for carrying out synthetic manipulations. The reaction sites in the former array can be placed in a fixed order and at fixed intervals relative to each other. Similarly, the stations can be placed in a fixed order and at fixed intervals relative to each other. The two arrays can be moved relative to each other such that the stations carry out desired steps of a reaction scheme at each reaction site. The relative locations of the stations and the schedule for the relative movement can correlate with the order and duration of reaction steps in the reaction scheme such that once a reaction site has completed a cycle of interacting with the full array of stations then the reaction scheme is complete. |
| US07914736B2 |
Semiconductor-based detection and decontamination system
A system and method for identifying and making quantitative determinations of different deposits on a portion thereof, determining that the deposit is a contaminant and decontaminating at least the portion of the system is disclosed. The system comprises a controller, a sensing portion and a decontamination portion. The controller contains information about at least one noncontaminant. The sensing portion communicates with at least the controller and the portion of the system and is adapted to detect the deposit. The decontaminating portion communicates with at least the controller and is adapted to decontaminate the portion of the system. |
| US07914732B2 |
Ferritic stainless steel cast iron, cast part using the ferritic stainless steel cast iron, and process for producing the cast part
The present invention provides: a ferritic stainless steel cast iron including: Fe as a main component; C: 0.20 to 0.40 mass %; Si: 1.00 to 3.00 mass %; Mn: 0.30 to 3.00 mass %; Cr: 12.0 to 30.0 mass %; and one of Nb and V, or both of Nb and V in total: 1.0 to 5.0 mass %, the ferritic stainless steel cast iron satisfying the following formula (1): 1400≦1562.3−{133WC+14WSi+5WMn+10(WNb+WV)}≦1480 (1) wherein, WC (mass %), WSi (mass %), WMn (mass %), WCr (mass %), WNb (mass %), WV (mass %) and WCu (mass %) are contents of C, Si, Mn, Cr, Nb, V and Cu, respectively; a process for producing a cast part from the ferritic cast steel; and the cast part. |
| US07914726B2 |
Liquid or hydraulic blow molding
An apparatus and method for simultaneously forming and filling a plastic container is provided. A mold cavity defines an internal surface and is adapted to accept a preform. A pressure source includes an inlet and a piston-like device. The piston-like device is moveable in a first direction wherein liquid is drawn into the pressure source through the inlet and in a second direction wherein the liquid is urged toward the preform. A blow nozzle may be adapted to receive the liquid from the pressure source and transfer the liquid at high pressure into the preform thereby urging the preform to expand toward the internal surface of the mold cavity and create a resultant container. The liquid remains within the container as an end product. |
| US07914716B2 |
Measurement control method of an injection molding machine
A measurement control method uses an ending target position Xes calculated by adding a prescribed length Ls to a measurement ending position Xe. A rotation rate pattern Ar for rotating a screw 2, a back pressure Ps in relation to the screw 2, and a retraction rate pattern Ab for the screw 2 to retract, are set in advance. The remaining rotation rate pattern Ar to stop the rotation of the screw 2 at the ending target position Xes from the detected screw position X, is calculated at the time of measurement, and the rotation of the screw 2 is stopped based on the calculation. Further, the remaining retraction rate pattern Ab is calculated from the detected retraction rate Vd, and the retraction of the screw 2 is stopped based on the calculation. The result is the stopping of the screw at the measurement ending position Xe. |
| US07914715B2 |
Granulating method, granulated particle(s) and granulating device
A granulating method for forming a particle with a continuous ink-jet method using a liquid material, in which the liquid material containing a solid component and a binder component is supplied into one or more ink-jet nozzles of a continuous ink-jet device, a droplet is formed by having the supplied liquid material flow out the ink-jet nozzle, the droplet is carried in to drying means for drying the droplet, and the carried droplet is dried so as to obtain a granulated particle(s), the granulated particle(s) and a granulating device. |
| US07914710B2 |
Loading quantum dots into thermo-responsive microgels by reversible transfer from organic solvents to water
Method for the preparation of inorganic-NP-composite microgels is based on the reversible transfer of microgels between water and an organic solvent such as tetrahydrofuran (THF). The method is used to produce semiconductor nanocrystals, often referred to as quantum dots (QDs) which are well known for their unique optical, electrical, magnetic and catalytic properties, as the inorganic NPs, recognizing that the best quality QDs are synthesized by a high temperature process in organic media, and have their surface covered with hydrophobic ligands (such as trioctylphosphine oxide, TOPO) that render the NPs insoluble in an aqueous solution. |
| US07914705B2 |
Flowable electrical conductive liquid
A liquid borne emulsion of varying formulations comprising a powdered metal in a base liquid incorporating a thickening agent component is adapted to a specific metal and type of electrical connection in a specific environment to enhance the electrical conductivity at the electrical connection, reducing the effect of the environment over time of the metals within the electrical connection, increasing the surface area of the electrical connection, reducing the effect of vibration upon the electrical connection to prevent separation and loss of contact to the electrical connection and reducing the signal noise generated by metal to metal movement resulting from an imperfect contact in an electrical connection. |
| US07914704B2 |
Binder for electric double layer capacitor electrode
A binder for an electric double layer capacitor electrode, which includes a copolymer (A) including monomer units derived from at least one compound (a) represented by the following general formula (1): CH2═CR1—COOR2 (1) wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, and R2 represents an alkyl group or a cycloalkyl group, the glass transition temperature obtained by homopolymerizing the compound (a) being less than 0° C., and monomer units derived from at least one compound (b) selected from acrylic acid alkyl esters, methacrylic acid alkyl esters, aromatic vinyl compounds, and α,β-unsaturated nitrile compounds, the glass transition temperature obtained by homopolymerizing the compound (b) being 0° C. or higher, wherein the total content of the monomer units derived from the compound (a) and those derived from the compound (b) is 90% or more by weight per 100% of the whole copolymer (A), and the glass transition temperature of the copolymer (A) is 10° C. or lower, which binder is excellent in smoothness, crack resistance and binding properties. |
| US07914703B2 |
Poly(oxyalkylene)ated colorants and their use as fluorescent security taggants
Certain poly(oxyalkylene) colorants are disclosed along with method of preparation thereof. A method of using these colorants as fluorescent security taggants is also disclosed. |
| US07914702B2 |
Dye loaded zeolite material
The present invention provides a dye loaded zeolite material comprising: a) at least one zeolite crystal having straight through uniform channels each having a channel axis parallel to, and a channel width transverse to, a c-axis of crystal unit cells; b) closure molecules having an elongated shape and consisting of a head moiety and a tail moiety, the tail moiety having a longitudinal extension of more than a dimension of the crystal unit cells along the c-axis and the head moiety having a lateral extension that is larger than said channel width and will prevent said head moiety from penetrating into a channel; c) a channel being terminated, in generally plug-like manner, at least at one end thereof located at a surface of the zeolite crystal by a closure molecule hose tail moiety penetrates into said channel and whose head moiety substantially occludes said channel end while projecting over said surface; and d) an essentially linear arrangement of luminescent dye molecules enclosed within a terminated channel adjacent to at least one closure molecule and exhibiting properties related to supramolecular organization. |
| US07914701B2 |
Lateral flow diagnostic device that contains a phosphorescent material encapsulated in a crosslinked polymer matrix
There is provided a lateral flow diagnostic device that employs a phosphorescent particle. The particle includes, for example, an organic phosphorescent material encapsulated in a cross-linked halogen-containing polymeric matrix. The cross-linked halogen-containing polymeric matrix has at least one percent by mass weight of halogen atoms, and the cross-linked halogen-containing polymeric matrix shields the encapsulated phosphorescent material from phosphorescence quenchers. |
| US07914700B2 |
Liquid crystal compositions and polymer networks derived therefrom
The invention relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein R1 and R2 are each independently selected from the group: H, F, Cl and CH3; n1 and n2 are each independently integers 3 to 20; q and r are each independently integers 0, 1 or 2, with the proviso that q+r is ≧1; D is a divalent chiral radical selected from the group: wherein R3 is a C1 to C6 straight or branched chain alkyl group; and each B1 and B2 is a divalent radical independently selected from the group: R4-substituted-1,4-phenyl, wherein R4 is H, —CH3 or —OCH3; 2,6-naphthyl; and 4,4′-biphenyl; with the provisos that when q+r=3, at least one of B1 and B2 is R4-substituted-1,4-phenyl; and when q+r=4, at least two of B1 and B2 are R4-substituted-1,4-phenyl. The invention further relates to liquid crystal compositions comprising compounds of formula (I) and polymer networks derived from the polymerization of the liquid crystal compositions. |
| US07914692B2 |
Methods of generating plasma, of etching an organic material film, of generating minus ions, of oxidation and nitriding
A direct current pulse voltage is applied on a treatment gas to generate a discharge plasma. The duty ratio of the direct current pulse voltage is controlled within the range of 0.0001% or more and 8.0% or less. The rise time of the direct current pulse voltage is controlled in the range of not lower than 0.1 V/nsec and not higher than 10000 V/nsec. Alternatively, a positive pulse and a negative pulse are applied from a single power source for performing the discharge plasma and the impurity implantation. |
| US07914691B2 |
Printing plate and method for fabricating the same
A printing plate and method for fabricating the same is disclosed. A metal layer is first formed on a glass substrate. The metal layer is then patterned in a predetermined shape. The glass substrate is next etched to a predetermined depth using the patterned metal layer as a mask and the metal layer removed. If necessary, additional metal layers have the same or different patterns may be formed on the glass substrate and the glass substrate etched after each metal layer is formed thereon until a desired etching depth in the glass is achieved. |
| US07914683B1 |
Particles of spilled oil-absorbing carbon in contact with water
Hydrogen generator coupled to or integrated with a fuel cell for portable power applications. Hydrogen is produced via thermocatalytic decomposition (cracking, pyrolysis) of hydrocarbon fuels in oxidant-free environment. The apparatus can utilize a variety of hydrocarbon fuels, including natural gas, propane, gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel, crude oil (including sulfurous fuels). The hydrogen-rich gas produced is free of carbon oxides or other reactive impurities, so it could be directly fed to any type of a fuel cell. The catalysts for hydrogen production in the apparatus are carbon-based or metal-based materials and doped, if necessary, with a sulfur-capturing agent. Additionally disclosed are two novel processes for the production of two types of carbon filaments, and a novel filamentous carbon product. Carbon particles with surface filaments having a hydrophobic property of oil film absorption, compositions of matter containing those particles, and a system for using the carbon particles for cleaning oil spills. |
| US07914680B2 |
Systems and methods for purification of liquids
The present disclosure provides methods and systems for purifying liquids. In a particular implementation, the system includes a forward-osmosis unit for diluting a water source for a downstream desalination unit. A pretreatment unit may be located hydraulically upstream of the desalination unit, such as upstream or downstream of the forward-osmosis unit. In certain embodiments, the system includes an extraction unit for extracting a relatively easily extractable osmotic agent from an osmotic draw solution. The system may include one or more forward-osmosis units downstream of the desalination unit for diluting a concentrated brine stream produced by the desalination unit. In particular embodiments, a downstream forward-osmosis unit uses the concentrated brine stream as an osmotic agent, such as to extract water from seawater or brackish water. Another downstream forward-osmosis unit may use impaired water as a feed stream. |
| US07914678B2 |
Backwashing unsaturated wastewater filter
A compact high efficiency combined biological and physical unsaturated wastewater treatment filter configured for periodic backwashing is disclosed. The filter utilizes packed media and removes pollutants and pathogens from wastewater and other dirty water sources. The filter comprises a periodic backwashing means to less the chance that biofilm growth will clog the media pores. However, such backwashing still leaves sufficient biofilm attached to the media to maintain a very high level of treatment. In the preferred embodiment, the filter utilizes high frequency dosing to cause pore saturation at or near the surface during dosing and shortly thereafter in order to maximize distribution uniformity and to induce downward airflow into the media. The system provides a number of unexpected benefits; including allowing a very low distribution pressure and providing high oxygen transfer at low energy utilization into the filter media for aerobic biodegradation of pollutants. |
| US07914677B2 |
Water treatment apparatus and water treatment method
Water (23) that contains micro-nano bubbles generated in a micro-nano bubble generation tank (6) is introduced and treated in a charcoal water tank (ii) which is filled with a charcoal (15) and in which an air diffusing pipe (12) is placed and thereafter introduced and treated in a membrane device (21). Thus, activities of microorganisms propagating in the charcoal (15) are increased by the micro-nano bubbles, markedly increasing ability of decomposing organic matters in the water. Therefore, a clogging phenomenon due to the organic matters can be prevented by reducing organic loads on the membrane device (21). Moreover, a very small amount of alcohols or salts are added as a micro-nano bubble generation aid to the micro-nano bubble generation tank (6), improving an incidence rate of the micro-nano bubbles. The alcohols and salts are easily decomposed by the charcoal water tank (ii) and easily removed by the membrane device (21). |
| US07914674B2 |
Device for removing contamination from a vehicle oil stream
A device for removing ferrous particulates from an oil stream within a motor vehicle includes a passage through which the oil stream flows and a magnet disposed within the passage. The passage defines a cavity in which the magnet is housed. The passage defines a substantially ninety-degree bend, such that particles suspended within the oil stream are propelled into the magnet before continuing along the passage. Preferably the device is disposed upstream of vehicle control valves, such that debris is removed from the oil stream prior to travel through the valves. Preferably, the cavity defines an overhang, which may be magnetic, with the overhang securing the magnet within the cavity and preventing particulates from re-entering the oil stream. An opening within the passage preferably defines the ninety-degree bend. The opening may be at least partially defined by the cavity. The magnet is preferably configured to be replaceable, removable, or both. |
| US07914671B2 |
Apparatus for removing buoyant pollutants
An exemplary apparatus (10), for removing buoyant pollutants having oil and debris atop a body of coolant, includes a pollutant collecting device (11), a pump (12) and a controlling module (13). The pollutant collecting device includes a hollow tub (12) and a collecting module (113). The collecting module is partially received in the hollow tub and is slidable relative to the hollow tub. The pump communicates with the hollow tub. The controlling module is configured for controlling the pump to draw coolant, oil or a mixture of coolant and buoyant pollutants into the hollow tub or out of the hollow tub. |
| US07914669B2 |
Reactive extraction of sulfur compounds from hydrocarbon streams
A process to substantially reduce the sulfur content of a liquid hydrocarbon stream by contacting the hydrocarbon stream with an aqueous stream containing a mixture of one or more extraction agents selected from hypochlorites, cyanurates and alkali metal and alkaline earth metal hydroxides, optionally in the presence of a catalyst, to remove sulfur compounds. |
| US07914668B2 |
Continuous coking process
The invention relates to a thermal conversion process for continuously producing hydrocarbon vapor and continuously removing a free-flowing coke. The coke, such as a shot coke, can be withdrawn continuously via, e.g., a staged lock hopper system. |
| US07914665B2 |
Method for making a lubricating oil with improved low temperature properties
The invention relates to a process for preparing lube oil basestocks from lube oil boiling range feeds. More particularly, the present invention is directed toward a process wherein a wax containing feed is solvent dewaxed to produce at least a partially dewaxed lube oil boiling range stream, which is hydrodewaxed to produce a first lube basestock. The first lube basestock is added to an independently selected second lube basestock and additives to make a lubricating oil. |
| US07914663B2 |
Structure, porous body, sensor, process of structure and detecting method for specimen
A mesoporous silica structure having a plurality of mesopores includes a dendritic framework having mesopores. 90% or more of the mesopores observable in a 500 nm×500 nm area pass through the framework in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the framework. |
| US07914662B2 |
Water treatment apparatus
A portable apparatus for treating polluted water by electrocoagulation. The apparatus comprising at least two electrodes (1,2). The apparatus also includes a housing (4), electrically isolated from the at least two electrodes (1,2), to which the at least two electrodes (1,2) are fixed spaced apart from one another. When the at least two second electrodes (1,2) are at least partly submerged in the polluted water and provided with an electrical potential, one of the at least two electrodes (2) is sacrificial so as to provide ions to the polluted water. |
| US07914653B2 |
Anode for electrochemical reaction
Disclosed is an anode for electrochemical reactions, such as electrolysis and electrodeposition, comprising a titanium substrate covered with metal oxide, in which the amount of platinum group element(s) is decreased in comparison with the ordinary anode of platinum group element oxides so as to decrease the cost and to mitigate the problem of natural resources, and further, durability of the anode is improved. The electrocatalyst of the anode is multiple oxide of platinum group element(s), and Sn and Sb. The cationic ratio of Sn to Sb is 1-40 and the sum of Sn and Sb is 1-90 cationic %. The electrocatalyst is prepared by coating mixed solutions of the soluble salts on the substrate and baking, so as to convert the metal salts to metal oxides. |
| US07914652B2 |
Oxygen gas diffusion cathode for sodium chloride electrolysis
The present invention provides an oxygen gas diffusion cathode for sodium chloride electrolysis comprising: a porous conductive substrate comprising silver, a hydrophobic material and a carbon material; a catalyst comprising silver and palladium, coated on the porous conductive substrate. |
| US07914650B2 |
Air filtering apparatus
In an air filtering apparatus in which power is supplied from a power supply to electrodes in an electrolytic bath to electrolyze water in the electrolytic bath and thus generate electrolytic water and the generated electrolytic water and air are supplied to a gas-liquid contact member to filter the air, a voltage varying unit varies the voltage applied between the electrodes, and includes a voltage switching unit for switching a power supply voltage, a voltage adjusting unit for adjusting the power supply voltage switched by the voltage switching unit and applying the adjusted voltage between the electrodes and a controller for controlling the voltage switching unit so that the power supply voltage is adjusted to a voltage nearest to the adjusted power supply voltage by the voltage adjusting unit. |
| US07914647B2 |
Paper manufacturing using agglomerated hollow particle latex
Agglomerated hollow particle latex is employed as a filler in the wet end of the paper-making process to provide paper with improved properties. |
| US07914644B2 |
Method for mounting protective film onto glass
A method for mounting a protective film (11) on a screen (13) comprises these steps: providing a protective film and a screen having shape and area approximately equal to that of the protective film; holding the screen; aligning the protective film with the screen; and mounting the protective film on the screen. |
| US07914641B2 |
Sealing material for flat panel display
A sealing material for a flat panel display contains 100 parts by weight of a compound (A) containing at least one epoxy group in the molecule, and 0.01 to 40 parts by weight of a compound (B) that generates a base upon irradiation. The compound (B) that generates a base upon irradiation is preferably a compound that generates a tertiary amine upon irradiation. The sealing material has favorable curability at low temperature, and a long pot life at room temperature, and does not cause deterioration of display members with ionic components and acids. |
| US07914640B2 |
Method and device for applying images on a beverage can lid
The method is for adding images or text on a beverage can lid. A beverage can lid is provided that has a handle member, the handle member attached to a top surface of the beverage can lid. An image is printed on the foil member. The printed foil member is placed on top of the top surface of the beverage can lid so that a first cut out segment is placed above the handle member and a second cut out segment is aligned with a weakened segment of the beverage can lid. With the foil member placed on top of the weakened segment, the handle member is lifted to engage the weakened segment and push the second cut out segment and a portion of the weakened segment through the beverage can lid. |
| US07914637B2 |
Method for manufacturing a particularly soft and three-dimensional nonwoven and nonwoven thus obtained
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing nonwoven and nonwoven obtainable by said method. Particularly, the invention relates to a nonwoven provided with improved tactile and absorbent characteristics, which make it suitable for use in the field of surface cleaning, personal hygiene, or formation of garments. |
| US07914636B2 |
Synergistic process and recipe for fabrication of a high integrity membrane electrode assembly of solid oxide fuel cell
A recipe and two sequential processes for fabrication of electrode substrates of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are described in this invention. The typical recipe consists of 50˜86 wt % electrolyte (8YSZ) or 50˜80 wt % anode electrode (NiO/8YSZ), 12˜22 wt % MEK (solvent 1), 5˜9 wt % EtOH (solvent 2), 1˜2 wt % TEA (dispersant), 0.5˜2 wt % DBP (plasticizer 1), 0.5˜2 wt % PEG (plasticizer 2), 3˜6 wt % PVB (binder), and 0.1˜10 wt % graphite (pore former). Two sequential processes include: 1. The process for preparation of the green tape slurry from materials of the recipe, 2. The synergistic process for fabrication of a high integrity membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of SOFC from the prepared electrode substrates. |
| US07914633B1 |
White propellant compositions
Sulfur-free and carbon-free, white propellant compositions for use as a blackpowder substitute in firearms, munitions, and pyrotechnics to form combustion byproducts that are water soluble and are free of corrosive sulfur compounds and black carbon residues. Formulations include a fuel agent selected from the group consisting of sodium benzoate, lactose, sodium salicylate, sodium m-nitrobenzoate, and mixtures thereof. The fuel agent is combined with dextrin, potassium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, and tricalcium phosphate. Dicyanodiamide may be incorporated in the formulation as a burn rate modifier. |
| US07914632B2 |
Gas generant compositions
A novel compound, used for example, as a gas generating fuel, is methoxy carbonyl-5 amino tetrazole. A method of making the compound is also provided. A gas generating composition, containing the novel compound as a fuel, and an oxidizer is also provided. The novel compound may be contained within a gas generant composition 12, within a gas generator 10. The gas generator 10 may be contained within a gas generating system 200 such as an airbag inflator 10 or seat belt assembly 150, or more broadly within a vehicle occupant protection system 180. |
| US07914631B2 |
Gas-generating composition
An azide-free gas-generating composition for use in gas generators for safety arrangements, in particular in gas generators for vehicle occupant restraint systems, includes a fuel and an oxidizer. The fuel is a compound having a melting point of at least 120 degrees C., and is selected from the group of nitrogenous organic compounds and of aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, and mixtures, derivatives and salts thereof. The oxidizer comprises tetrakis(2,2,2-trinitroethyl)orthocarbonate (TNEOC), with the TNEOC being present in a proportion of at least 10% by weight of the composition. |
| US07914627B2 |
Processing solution for forming hexavalent chromium free and corrosion resistant conversion film on zinc or zinc alloy plating layers, hexavalent chromium free and corrosion resistant conversion film, method for forming the same
A processing solution for forming a hexavalent chromium free, corrosion resistant trivalent chromate conversion film on zinc or zinc alloy plating layers comprises: trivalent chromium and oxalic acid in a molar ratio ranging from 0.5/1 to 1.5/1, wherein the trivalent chromium is present in the form of water-soluble complex with oxalic acid; and cobalt ions, which do not form a hardly soluble metal salt with oxalic acid and are stably present in the processing solution without causing any precipitation; wherein the solution reacts with zinc when bringing it into contact with the zinc or zinc alloy plating to form a hexavalent chromium free, corrosion resistant, trivalent chromate conversion film containing zinc, chromium, cobalt, oxalic acid and silicon on the plating. The film is quite thin, free of any hexavalent chromium, has corrosion resistance identical to or higher than that achieved by the conventional hexavalent chromium-containing film and can be formed using a processing solution having a quite low concentration. |
| US07914620B2 |
Supporting device for heating crucible and deposition apparatus having the same
A device for supporting a heating crucible includes a supporting table having an upper surface in which a plurality of holes are formed, and a contamination prevention plate arranged at an entrance of each of the holes of the supporting table and having an opening portion corresponding to the hole and a shield portion extending along an inner wall of the hole. |
| US07914619B2 |
Thick epitaxial silicon by grain reorientation annealing and applications thereof
The invention provides a high temperature (about 1150° C. or greater) annealing process for converting thick polycrystalline Si layers on the order of 1 μm to 40 μm on a single crystal seed layer into thick single crystal Si layers having the orientation of the seed layer, thus allowing production of thick Si films having the quality of single crystal silicon at high rates and low cost of processing. Methods of integrating such high temperature processing into solar cell fabrication are described, with particular attention to process flows in which the seed layer is disposed on a porous silicon release layer. Another aspect pertains to the use of similar high temperature anneals for poly-Si grain growth and grain boundary passivation. A further aspect relates to structures in which these thick single crystal Si films and passivated poly-Si films are incorporated. |
| US07914618B1 |
Flowable cement-based material and methods of manufacturing and using same
Flowable materials and methods of manufacture and use are provided. The flowable fill materials include a cement-based fill material with a cement component and an aggregate component that are mixed with a chemical agent and the like in water. This provides the cement-based material in a flowable state that can be controllably set over time. |
| US07914614B1 |
Herbal paint
A herbal paint mixture comprising, in combination, a carrier paint having a first volume and an herbal mixture having a second volume. The first volume and the second volume being mixed together. |
| US07914612B2 |
Compliant column sheath assembly for gas chromatography
A compliant column sheath assembly for use in a gas chromatograph is provided which includes an open tubular column in the form of a helical coil having a coiled length of between about 5 and 15 cm. The sheath assembly further includes an insulating sheath which surrounds the open tubular column and a frame. When incorporated in a gas chromatograph, the compliant column sheath assembly allows samples to be analyzed in about 2 to 10 seconds. |
| US07914611B2 |
Multi-layered support system
In various embodiments, a support system includes a multi-layer cover sheet with a number of layers. In certain embodiments, a source to move air inside and outside the multi-layer cover sheet can be provided. The source can include a source of positive pressure or negative pressure. |
| US07914609B2 |
Cyclonic air cleaner assembly
An apparatus and method is a fan to direct air through a screen to cool the engine. A cyclonic air cleaner assembly receives air from the blower fan and directs the air towards a carburetor. |
| US07914602B1 |
Process to reduce steel furnace slag carry-over during tapping
A process for tapping a steel furnace with a reduced amount of entrained slag is disclosed. During tapping, particles of a slag foaming agent are added. The foaming agent may include calcium carbide and/or other chemicals. The agent foams the slag to decrease its density during tapping and/or to disrupt initial vortex formation at the tap. |
| US07914596B2 |
Air purifier
Behind a front panel of an air purifier are formed guide paths on the right and left sides thereof. A space between the front panel and a filter unit is partitioned by a partition plate into a front panel rear space and a filter unit front space. Part of an airflow that has entered the guide path through an air intake enters the filter unit front space, and the other part thereof enters the front panel rear space. When entering the front panel rear space, the airflow takes a sharp turn at a sharp turn corner. As a result, coarse dust is separated from the airflow, and the separated coarse dust falls into a dust box. |
| US07914593B2 |
Fuel composition
The present invention provides a fuel composition capable of suppressing reduction of fuel consumption, maintaining the excellent exhaust gas properties of a Fischer-Tropsch synthetic oil. The fuel composition comprises a Fischer-Tropsch synthetic oil and a petroleum-based hydrocarbon mixture A having the following properties (1) to (5) in an amount of 10 to 30 percent by volume on the basis of the total mass of the composition: (1) 15° C. density: 800 Kg/cm3 or greater and 900 Kg/m3 or less; (2) 10 volume % distillation temperature (T10): 150° C. or higher and 200° C. or lower; (3) 97 volume % distillation temperature (T97): 270° C. or lower; (4) aromatic content: 40 percent by volume or more and 70 percent by volume or less; and (5) sulfur content: 30 ppm by mass or less. |
| US07914590B2 |
Apparatus and method for carrying out optical readings on textile materials submitted to dyeing
The present invention relates to a method for carrying out optical readings on textile materials submitted to dyeing. |
| US07914587B2 |
Wrist device for use with a prosthetic limb
A multi-axis wrist device is provided for use with a prosthetic limb. The wrist device includes a base plate that is configured for attachment to a prosthetic limb. A cross piece, having first and second axes, can be coupled to the base plate. A prosthetic attachment can be coupled to the cross piece. The cross piece can enable a user to simultaneously flex the prosthetic attachment in two different axes. A first and second torsional spring can be coupled to the first and second axes, respectively, to enable the prosthetic attachment to be biased toward a center point. |
| US07914585B2 |
Hip prosthesis including a shaft to be inserted into the femur
A hip prosthesis includes a straight shaft which is to be inserted into the femur, the straight shaft including a proximal part that is configured to be inserted in the metaphyseal region of the femur. The proximal part has, on each of its front and rear faces, at least one projecting fin with a steep medial flank that deviates at least over part of its length away from the longitudinal direction of the shaft. At its top the proximal part is inclined toward the femoral neck. In this way, when the shaft is driven into the bone, the bone substance surrounding the fin is compacted and is able to absorb greater forces. The height of the fin decreases from its medial flank toward its lateral edge. |
| US07914577B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for heart valve repair
A medical device for treating a defective heart valve. The medical device comprises a delivery sheath and an implantable device moveably disposed within the delivery sheath. The implantable device further comprises a distal expandable basket, a proximal expandable basket, and a connecting member coupling at a first end to the distal expandable basket and at a second end to the proximal expandable basket. Each of the distal expandable basket and proximal expandable basket is in a collapsed state during delivery and an expanded state after deployment. An actuator is releasably coupled to the implantable device. When coupled to the implantable device, the actuator can move the implantable device in a way to allow for positioning of the distal and proximal expandable baskets. |
| US07914576B2 |
Apparatus and methods for repair of a cardiac valve
An apparatus for repairing a cardiac valve includes an annuloplasty ring having an expandable support member with oppositely disposed proximal and distal end portions and a main body portion between the end portions. The proximal end portion includes a plurality of wing members extending from the main body portion. Each of the wing members includes at least one hook member for embedding into a cardiac wall and a valve annulus to secure the annuloplasty ring therein. The apparatus also includes an energy delivery mechanism for selectively contracting the annuloplasty ring to restrict the valve annulus and correct valvular insufficiency. The energy delivery mechanism includes a detachable electrical lead having distal and proximal end portions. The distal end portion has a securing member for operably attaching the distal end portion to a portion of the expandable support member. The proximal end portion is operably connected to an energy delivery source. |
| US07914575B2 |
Medical device for treating a heart valve insufficiency
A medical device for treating a heart valve insufficiency, with an endoprosthesis which can be introduced into a patient's body and expanded to secure a heart valve prosthesis in the patient's aorta. In an embodiment, the endoprosthesis has at plurality of positioning arches configured to be positioned with respect to a patient's aorta and a plurality of retaining arches to support a heart valve prosthesis. The endoprosthesis includes a first collapsed mode during the process of introducing it into the patient's body and a second expanded mode when it is implanted. |
| US07914573B2 |
Polymeric stent having modified molecular structures
A biocompatible material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices including intraluminal stents. Polymeric materials may be utilized to fabricate any of these devices, including stents. The stents may be balloon expandable or self-expanding. By preferential mechanical deformation of the polymer, the polymer chains may be oriented to achieve certain desirable performance characteristics. |
| US07914572B2 |
Side branch stent graft construction
A stent graft (10) has a tubular body (12) of a biocompatible material and at least one fenestration (18, 20). The or each fenestration has a tubular side branch stitched into it with a portion of the tubular side branch extending within the tubular body and a portion of the tubular side branch extending exteriorly of the tubular body. The stitching by which the tubular side branch is mounted into the fenestration extends circumferentially and diagonally from one end of the tubular side branch to the other such that the tubular side branch extends from the tubular body at an angle thereto. The tubular side branch has a resilient ring around at least one and preferably both ends thereof and a self expanding stent in between them. The tubular side branch can have a circumferential linear portion (46) at an inner end to engage against the inner wall (58) of the tubular body. The tubular side branch can have a stent made from a single wire forming a first ring (45), a second ring (47), the second ring defining a plane which is substantially parallel to and spaced axially apart from the plane of the first ring and a number of helical wire portions (49) extending between the first and second ring. Preferably the wire is a shape memory wire such as Nitinol™ wire. |
| US07914569B2 |
Heart valve prosthesis and methods of manufacture and use
A heart valve prosthesis is provided having a self-expanding multi-level frame that supports a valve body comprising a skirt and plurality of coapting leaflets. The frame transitions between a contracted delivery configuration that enables percutaneous transluminal delivery, and an expanded deployed configuration having an asymmetric hourglass shape. The valve body skirt and leaflets are constructed so that the center of coaptation may be selected to reduce horizontal forces applied to the commissures of the valve, and to efficiently distribute and transmit forces along the leaflets and to the frame. Alternatively, the valve body may be used as a surgically implantable replacement valve prosthesis. |
| US07914568B2 |
Biliary stent-graft
A stent-graft which is particularly useful for applications in biliary ducts. An expandable stent is provided with a covering of a material which is substantially impervious to body fluids and tissue ingrowth and has an increased resistance to bacterial attachment due to its lack of porosity and reduced surface texture. A preferred covering is porous PTFE film rendered substantially non-porous by a coating of a polymeric material such as FEP. The resulting stent has a thin wall for minimum pre-deployment diameter and for minimum interference with fluid flow through the device after implantation. It has good flexibility, allowing its use in curved ducts. |
| US07914567B2 |
Stent tissue graft prosthesis
A stent tissue graft prosthesis (20) for repairing, excluding and/or reinforcing a vessel, duct and the like in a patient. The prosthesis includes an inner expandable stent (21) of which a tissue graft (24) and preferably a multilayered tissue construct (33) is disposed thereon for application to the host tissue of a vessel, duct and the like. The tissue construct includes an extracellular matrix material (36) such as small intestine submucosa (37) for remodeling the host tissue into the prosthesis. The prosthesis further includes an outer tubular member (25) such as an outer expandable stent (44) for retaining the tissue graft on the inner stent. The ends of the inner and outer stents are coincident with or extend beyond the ends of the tissue graft to prevent eversion or fold back of the tissue graft during withdrawal of a delivery catheter in a placement procedure. |
| US07914566B2 |
Multifunction warming device with provision for warming hands
A multifunction warming device includes a clinical garment with at least one convective apparatus supported on the inside of the garment. Slits are provided in the clinical garment which enables a patient to insert his or her hands inside the clinical garment to be warmed therein by operation of the convective apparatus. |
| US07914564B2 |
System and method for patient temperature control employing temperature projection algorithm
Embodiments of the invention provide a system for temperature control of the human body. The system includes an indwelling catheter with a tip-mounted heat transfer element. The catheter is fluidically coupled to a console that provides a heated or cooled heat transfer working fluid to exchange heat with the heat transfer element, thereby heating or cooling blood. The heated or cooled blood then heats or cools the patient's body or a selected portion thereof. In particular, methods and devices, including software, are provided for administering cooling or rewarming and controlling the same based on a projected control temperature measured by a temperature sensor within the catheter. |
| US07914558B2 |
Spinal stabilization systems and methods using minimally invasive surgical procedures
A spinal stabilization system may be formed in a patient. In some embodiments, a minimally invasive procedure may be used to form a spinal stabilization system in a patient. Bone fastener assemblies may be coupled to vertebrae. Each bone fastener assembly may include a bone fastener and a collar. The collar may be rotated and/or angulated relative to the bone fastener. Detachable members may be coupled to the collar to allow for formation of the spinal stabilization system through a small skin incision. The detachable members may allow for alignment of the collars to facilitate insertion of an elongated member in the collars. An elongated member may be positioned in the collars and a closure member may be used to secure the elongated member to the collars. |
| US07914556B2 |
Arthroplasty revision system and method
The invention provides a method of revising an implanted spinal device, such as an implanted arthroplasty device having a cephalad component fixed to a first vertebra and a caudal component fixed to a second vertebra inferior to the first vertebra. The method includes the following steps: removing a portion of a previously implanted spinal arthroplasty device; and attaching a revision component to a remaining portion of the previously implanted spinal arthroplasty device to alter a biomechanical characteristic of the implanted arthroplasty device. Another aspect of the invention provides a method of limiting motion between adjacent vertebrae including the steps of accessing an implanted spinal arthroplasty device comprising a cephalad component fixed to a first vertebra and a caudal component fixed to a second vertebra inferior to the first vertebra, the cephalad and caudal components having a range of motion between them, and attaching a revision component to the cephalad and caudal components to reduce the range of motion. The invention also includes revision devices for revising the biomechanics of implanted spinal arthroplasty devices. |
| US07914554B2 |
Spinal implant containing multiple bone growth promoting materials
An interbody spinal fusion implant for surgical implantation within a disc space between two adjacent vertebral bodies in a segment of a human spine includes multiple bone growth promoting materials. The implant includes upper and lower portions for contacting each of the adjacent vertebral bodies when positioned therein. Each of the upper and lower portions have at least one opening adapted to communicate with one of the adjacent vertebral bodies. The openings are in communication with one another and adapted for permitting for the growth of bone from adjacent vertebral body to adjacent vertebral body through the implant. The implant includes a hollow interior for holding bone growth promoting material. In one embodiment, the bone growth promoting material includes a liquid fusion promoting material and a solid fusion promoting material other than bone provided in at least a portion of the hollow interior to promote bone growth from adjacent vertebral body to adjacent vertebral body through the implant. |
| US07914551B2 |
Electroactive polymer-based articulation mechanism for multi-fire surgical fastening instrument
Methods and devices are provided for effecting movement of one or more components of a multifire device, such as a clip applier, hernia tacker, or skin stapler. In one exemplary embodiment, a surgical fastening instrument is provided having an elongate shaft with an end effector coupled thereto and adapted to apply one or more surgical fasteners to tissue. An electrically expandable and contractible actuator, such as an electroactive polymer actuator, can be used to drive a fastener advancing or forming assembly through the elongate shaft, thereby driving a surgical fastener into tissue. In another embodiment, an electrically expandable and contractible actuator, such as an electroactive polymer actuator, can be used to effect movement of an articulation joint formed between the elongate shaft and the end effector. |
| US07914546B2 |
Lancet
Plastics material injected through an entry point of a mould at the location (8) is caused to deflect around a pin which creates the hole (14) in a guard (5), so as to increase the balance of flow of material to either side of the pin (9). In order to minimize the tendency for the plastics material to bend out of shape the tip of the needle embedded within an enlarged portion (13) the mould is formed such that the mould material is initially encouraged to divide and flow through outer thickened regions (10) surrounding a thinner portion. At point (12) the plastics material is therefore caused to slow down resulting in greater equalization of the flow speed of the plastics material to either side of the needle tip. |
| US07914543B2 |
Single fold device for tissue fixation
A system for tissue approximation and fixation is described herein. A device is advanced in a minimally invasive manner within a patient's body to create one or several divisions or plications within a hollow body organ. The system comprises a stapler assembly having a tissue acquisition member and a tissue fixation member. The stapler assembly approximates tissue from within the hollow body organ with the acquisition member and then affixes the approximated tissue with the fixation member. In one method, the system can be used as a secondary procedure to reduce the size of a stoma within the hollow body organ. |
| US07914540B2 |
Material retrieval device and method of using
A medical device configured to be inserted into a patient's body to retrieve material from the patient's body includes a basket assembly. The basket assembly is configured to transition between various states including an expanded state and a collapsed state. The basket assembly may be substantially covered in a flexible sheet except for a side-facing opening when the basket assembly is in the expanded state. When the basket assembly is in the collapsed state, the side-facing opening may be substantially closed. The device may be inserted into the patient's body while the basket assembly is in the collapsed state. While in the patient's body, the basket assembly may be transitioned to the expanded state. Then, a physician may maneuver material to be removed from the patient's body into the basket assembly via the side-facing opening. Next, the basket assembly may be transitioned into the collapsed state or a partially collapsed state so that the basket assembly can be removed from the patient's body. |
| US07914533B2 |
Minimally invasive actuable bone fixation devices
Apparatus for bone reinforcement, fixation and treatment of diseased or fractured bones including a supporting structure optionally coated with therapeutic agent is provided. The supporting structure or device may be collapsible upon deployment at the surgical site, and include fixation features such as anchors to securely position in place once deployed. Bone cement or other material may be provided to alternatively secure the positioned supporting structure for treatment. A lockable bone fixation device is described that comprises: a sleeve adapted to be positioned in a space formed in a bone; a guidewire adapted to guide movement of the sleeve; and an actuable lock adapted to secure the sleeve within the space of the bone from an end of the device. |
| US07914532B2 |
Orthopedic rod with locking aperture
System, including methods and apparatus, for treating orthopedic conditions using a rod member structured for placement in a medullary canal of a bone and including at least one locking aperture with an internal thread structure. In some embodiments, the internal thread structure may include two or more thread leads disposed adjacent the same end of the locking aperture, two or more interspersed internal threads, and/or a thread depth substantially less than that of a corresponding threaded fastener for the locking aperture. |
| US07914530B2 |
Tissue dilator and method for performing a spinal procedure
Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted, a hollow sleeve having teeth at one end is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted to restore the normal angular relationship of the vertebrae adjacent to that disc space. An extended outer sleeve having extended portions capable of maintaining the vertebrae distracted in their normal angular relationship is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. |
| US07914529B2 |
Cooling element for electrosurgery
A cooling member for a cautery surgical instrument such as a surgical forceps including a pair of elongate arms joined at an end so as to provide for resilient compressible movement of the arms between a normally open position and a squeezed closed position. The cooling member provides for conduction of heat away from an electrode tip and includes a first portion having a first diameter, and a second portion spaced away from the first portion that transitions from the first diameter to at least one smaller diameter section. A socket is disposed within each arm of the forceps. The socket includes a longitudinal blind hole that is sized so as to releasably receive the smaller diameter section of the second portion, and a catch for engaging a portion of the arm. |
| US07914521B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing minimally invasive cardiac procedures
A minimally invasive surgical system includes a pair of surgical instruments having end effectors to hold and suture tissue, a pair of robotic arms coupled to the surgical instruments, a controller, and a pair of master handles coupled through the controller to the robotic arms, so that surgeon manipulation of the handles produces corresponding movement of the end effectors in an adjustably scaled fashion. An input button allows the surgeon to adjust the position of the handles without moving the end effectors, so that the handles may be moved to a more comfortable position. An optionally included robotically controlled endoscope allows the surgeon to remotely view the surgical site. Using the system, a cardiac procedure can be performed by making small incisions in the patient's skin, inserting the instruments and endoscope through the incisions, and manipulating the handles to move the end effectors to perform the cardiac procedure. |
| US07914520B2 |
Medical catheters of modular construction
The present invention is directed to medical catheters that may be modularly constructed to facilitate manufacture and provide properties that may be difficult to achieve with a catheter formed from a single extrusion or multiple materials that are fused together. The catheter may be constructed of one or more core elements that may be partially or fully surrounded by a jacket member in a variety of configurations. The core elements may comprise different properties with respect to the jacket member or one another, thereby permitting increased manufacturing flexibility. The modular catheter designs of the present invention further provide for a variety of lumen configurations, as well as providing for catheters that can change their shape by moving the core elements with respect to the jacket member or one another. |
| US07914515B2 |
Catheter and introducer catheter having torque transfer layer and method of manufacture
The instant invention relates generally to catheters and to introducer catheters used to help deliver catheters or other medical devices to locations within the human body. In particular, the instant invention relates to large diameter catheters and introducer catheters having a torque transfer layer that includes at least two flat wires braided into a wire mesh. The flat wires have a width of at least about 0.007 inches and a depth of at least about 0.003 inches. The lumen diameter of the catheter is at least about 6 French. The torque transfer layer provides increased strength, flexibility, and kink resistance. |
| US07914514B2 |
Computerized system for monitored retrograde perfusion of tumor sites
A computerized system collects, organizes and stores various sets of data during several phases of treatment relating to monitoring and location of a route in vivo and a visible image of that route for retrograde perfusion of a tumor with a therapeutic agent and for monitoring treatment procedures during such retrograde perfusion. The data obtained from present and past treatment procedures are stored for analysis and also made available real time to treating physicians during treatment procedures. |
| US07914513B2 |
Method of using a multi-lumen catheter assembly
A multi-lumen catheter assembly with a two-piece hub is disclosed. The catheter includes a distal portion having a plurality of catheter lumens, wherein each of the plurality of catheter lumens includes a distal tip and a proximal lumen portion. The distal portion further includes a distal hub portion slidably disposed over the proximal lumen portion, wherein the distal hub portion includes a pivoting locking member. The catheter assembly further includes a proximal portion having a plurality of catheter extensions, wherein each of the plurality of catheter extensions fluidly communicates with at least one of the plurality of catheter lumens. The proximal portion also includes a proximal hub portion having a locking receiver, wherein the pivoting locking member is releasably engaged with the locking receiver. |
| US07914512B2 |
Methods, systems, and kits for implanting articles
Methods, systems, and kits for subcutaneously implanting articles, such as drug inserts and reservoirs. The methods rely on percutaneously forming a tissue tract and radially dilating the tract to a diameter which permits introduction of the article. By fully expanding the lumenal diameter of the tissue tract prior to introduction of the article, damage to the article resulting from passage through a partially expanded tissue tract can be avoided. In the exemplary embodiment, a radially expandable sleeve is first percutaneously introduced to the subcutaneous target site. An assembly of a cannula and dilator is then passed through the sleeve, effecting radial expansion. The dilator is removed and the article is then introduced through a lumen of the cannula. |
| US07914511B2 |
Use of biosurgical adhesive as bulking agent
An exemplary method of reducing the volume of a stomach comprises providing an adhesive applier and a biocompatible adhesive. The exemplary method further comprises introducing at least a portion of the adhesive applier into the stomach and dispensing the adhesive through the adhesive applier into the stomach. The adhesive may be applied between the submucosa and muscle layers of the stomach to reduce the volume of the stomach. The adhesive may alternatively be applied in layers onto the inner surface of the stomach. Alternatively, a non-expandable member may be introduced into the stomach, and an adhesive may be used to secure the non-expandable member to the stomach. Such uses may provide a treatment for morbid obesity. An adhesive may also be used to provide flow restriction, such as by injecting the adhesive between the submucosa and muscle layers of a cardia or rectum. |
| US07914509B2 |
Ultrasound catheter
The invention relates to a catheter system. The system comprises a catheter body having a chamber containing a low acoustic impedance medium. The catheter body includes an elongated body with an external surface and an ultrasound transducer having an external side between a first end and a second end. The ultrasound transducer is positioned over the external surface of the elongated body such that the first end is adjacent to the chamber. |
| US07914502B2 |
Anti-drawback medical valve
A gland member within a medical valve is configured to have a substantially consistent or enlarging internal volume as the valve transitions from a closed mode to an open mode. To that end, the valve has a housing forming an interior containing a flow path, and a stationary post member within the interior. The post member has a lumen that is a part of the flow path. The lumen has an opening to the interior of the housing. The valve further includes a gland member circumscribing the post member to produce a variable volume region formed at least in part between the gland member itself and the post member. In addition, the variable volume region is a part of the flow path, while the gland member occludes the post lumen opening when in the closed mode. The variable volume region has an open volume (i.e., when the valve is in the open mode) that is no less than its closed volume (i.e., when the valve is in the closed mode). |
| US07914498B2 |
Self-suturing catheter system
An improved catheter system having a hub including a self-suturing mechanism comprising a circular needle rotatably slidable in a circular groove in the hub. The needle is sharpened to a point at an end and preferably is also formed into a tang for use as a handle. The hub is flattened on a side to be adjacent to the skin, defining a hub flat thus truncating the groove through, for example, 60° thereof. After the catheter is positioned in the blood vessel, the flat is pressed against the skin. The circular needle is rotated through an angle such that the circular needle passes through a portion of the skin, thereby “self-suturing” the hub to the skin of the patient. The hub is thus firmly attached to the patient, and no separate suturing is required. De-suturing of the catheter requires only reverse rotation of the circular needle. |
| US07914493B2 |
Wire guide with engaging portion
A wire guide and a method for its percutaneous guidance within a body vessel are provided. The wire guide includes an outer component for insertion into the body vessel and a core wire disposed in the outer component and movable between first and second positions. The core wire includes an engaging portion that extends from the outer component to engage the body vessel when the core wire is in the second position. |
| US07914492B2 |
Catheter introducer system
A catheter introducer system is provided with a catheter sheath having a valve providing for a friction fit around a catheter. The friction fit is selectively adjustable to vary between a first configuration for longitudinal movement of the catheter through the valve and a second configuration for holding the catheter longitudinally in place. The valve may includes a chuck to grip the catheter radially. The chuck may include an annular base and an opposed annular clamp, and a washer disposed between the base and the clamp. At least one of the base and the clamp may include a beveled surface that forces the washer radially inwardly as the base and the clamp are drawn together. The system also includes one or more dilators layered within the sheath. The layered dilators and sheaths are typically softer and more hydrophilic proceeding from the innermost dilator out to the sheath. The dilator may be reinforced by a wire embedded in the body of the dilator. The distal tip of the sheath may be stiffened by a ring affixed adjacent the distal end. The sheath may include in the innermost dilator a trocar formed of a flexible, hollow outer wire and an inner stiff needle, which can extend beyond the wire for piercing and be withdrawn to relax the wire for advancement of the dilator. |
| US07914490B2 |
Ambulatory infusion pump assembly and housing therefor
An ambulatory infusion pump assembly and housing therefore has a cover and a base providing an enclosed cavity. The system includes a liquid pump in fluid communication with a supply source of a liquid drug. The pump and supply source are received in the housing cavity. Further, the system includes a seal providing a liquid tight seal between the cover and the base. A through passage extends from the enclosed cavity external to the housing and an infusion tube extends through the through passage. A fluid tight seal is formed about the infusion tube. A vent is provided in the housing that maintains a balanced pressure state between the enclosed cavity and the atmosphere, while at the same time, the vent prevents the ingress and egress of contaminants into and fluid out of the enclosed cavity. |
| US07914483B2 |
Pain controlled analgesic (“PCA”) apparatus
An infusion pump includes: a housing, a pump actuator supported by the housing, electronics configured to control the pump actuator, a pain controlled analgesic (“PCA”) input device, a cord having a remote end connected to the PCA input device and a local end connected to the housing, a remote integrated circuit; and a local integrated circuit in communication with the electronics and the remote integrated circuit so as to provide operational information concerning the PCA input device to the electronics. |
| US07914480B2 |
Transdermal delivery device
A dermal, transdermal, mucosal or transmucosal delivery device includes a backing layer overlying an ingredient containing reservoir, and having a microprotrusion array attached thereto, a cover for the reservoir having at least one opening therethrough, an adhesive layer and a liner layer. Upon removal of the liner layer, the device may be placed over the desired area of the skin or mucosa and adhesively applied thereto allowing the ingredients to flow from the reservoir through the at least one opening to the skin or mucosa. |
| US07914475B2 |
Orthopedic brace
An orthopedic brace is adaptable for either left or right sided use. The brace includes a softgood pad having a distal edge, a proximal edge opposite the distal edge, a dorsal edge, and a radial edge opposite the dorsal edge. A strap retainer is disposed on the radial or ulnar edge, and a strap pod is removably attachable to the pad in a left or right sided closure position. The strap pod cooperates with the strap retainer to secure the pad closed about a left limb, when the strap pod is attached in the left sided closure position, or about a right limb, when the strap pod is attached in the right sided closure position. A distal retention strap extends from the pad proximate to the distal and radial edges, and a reversible fastening member is coupled to the distal retention strap. |
| US07914474B2 |
DIP joint extension splint
Finger splints for use in connection with distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint fractures are disclosed. The splints include a ring element for positioning around a finger at a location proximal to the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint and include an extension member that extends over the DIP joint and attaches to the fingernail. |
| US07914473B2 |
Posture training device
The invention resides in a posture training device comprising a signalling unit able to be worn longitudinally over a user's spine, the signalling unit having two ends that can be used to activate the signalling unit by tension being applied to either of the two ends; a waist strap able to be fitted around a waist of a user, the waist strap connected to one of the ends of the signalling unit; and a central strap able to extend adjacent the spine of a user, the central strap being connected to an opposing end of the signalling unit and to the waist strap. |
| US07914472B2 |
Neck support
A neck support/brace for protecting a neck has a flexible collar with a top wall, bottom wall, sidewalls and sectional walls disposed therebetween that form compartments therein. A plurality of cells are disposed within the compartment. Each of the fluid cells have a valve element disposed therein. When the pressure acting upon the cells is below a threshold pressure, fluid or air flows through the valve element to allow movement of the neck. Alternatively when the pressure on the cells is above the threshold pressure the valve element closes preventing fluid or air flow out of the fluid cell thus causing the cell to stay inflated and provide resistance to a neck movement. |
| US07914471B2 |
Shoulder massage chair
A multiple mode massage chair is provided for being interchangeably used as a seating support and a massaging platform. Above the conventional components of an advanced chair construction such as a horizontal base with a number of casters for slidably supporting the base over the floor, an upholstered seat bottom and seatback assembled to the base through a telescopic upright stand for a height adjustment from the base, the invention provides pairs of elongated cushion flaps pivotally attached to the seat bottom and seatback for selectively providing an extra cushion to the seated user on the respective seating surfaces. Each flap is shaped to flap on a bi-level pivot action to cover or expose an underlying massage surface of the chair with the assistance of a toggle action in order to facilitate the change of the mode of operation of the chair. |
| US07914467B2 |
Tubular member having tapered transition for use in a medical device
An elongated medical device and components therefore, and methods for making and using the same. An example embodiment includes an elongated metallic tubular member including a tapered transition region disposed between two sections having different physical characteristics, such as flexibility characteristics. In some cases, the tubular member includes a section including a plurality of slots formed therein. Some example embodiments include a medical device including such a tubular member. |
| US07914466B2 |
Medical device with collapse-resistant liner and method of making same
A medical device for guiding through anatomy, such as a catheter or guidewire, with a tubular body that has been slotted to enhance bending flexibility, and a polymer liner with an anti-collapsing structure, and a method of making a medical device with a kink-resistant corrugated tubular member and an anti-collapsing structure. Anti collapsing structures may be helical or annular, and may be wire, such as ribbon wire, grooves in the liner, corrugations, or a braid. Liners may be bonded to the anti-collapsing structure, or may have two layers, with the anti-collapsing structure between the layers. Corrugations may be formed between sections of the anti-collapsing ‘structure with heat, pressure, stretching, compression, a mold, or a combination thereof, and may extend inward or outward. Shape or wall thickness may vary along the length to provide a varying bending stiffness. Slots may be formed in groups of two, three, or more, and adjacent groups may be rotated about the axis forming a helical pattern. |
| US07914454B2 |
Real-time 3D ultrasonic imaging apparatus and method
A method and apparatus for electronic volume data acquisition using ultrasound generates image data in a scanning and imaging process known as coherent aperture combining beamforming (CAC-BF). The CAC-BF technique can be applied in an azimuth dimension and/or an elevation dimension, to form an ultrasound image line, image plane, or image data cube. Several innovations relating to the design and ordering of shots and efficient weighting algorithms that address various performance issues associated with B-mode and other modes such as Doppler, and harmonic imaging are disclosed. The invention has significant advantages over other synthetic aperture imaging techniques and conventional imaging techniques by supporting higher resolution, larger volumes and/or shorter acquisition times than comparative techniques, using similar system hardware complexity. |
| US07914452B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling cardiac therapy using ultrasound transducer
A cardiac rhythm management (CRM) system provides for post-myocardial infarction (MI) therapy with closed-loop control using one or more ultrasound transducers sensing one or more ultrasound signals indicative of cardiac dimensions. Cardiac size parameters are produced using the one or more ultrasound signals to represent, for example, cardiac chamber diameter, cardiac chamber volume, cardiac wall thickness, infarct size, and degree of change in any of these parameters over time or between measurements. In various embodiments, such cardiac size parameters provide for titration, safety check, and acute optimization of the post-MI therapy. |
| US07914450B2 |
System and methods for processing analyte sensor data
Systems and methods for processing sensor analyte data, including initiating calibration, updating calibration, evaluating clinical acceptability of reference and sensor analyte data, and evaluating the quality of sensor calibration. During initial calibration, the analyte sensor data is evaluated over a period of time to determine stability of the sensor. The sensor may be calibrated using a calibration set of one or more matched sensor and reference analyte data pairs. The calibration may be updated after evaluating the calibration set for best calibration based on inclusion criteria with newly received reference analyte data. Fail-safe mechanisms are provided based on clinical acceptability of reference and analyte data and quality of sensor calibration. Algorithms provide for optimized prospective and retrospective analysis of estimated blood analyte data from an analyte sensor. |
| US07914449B2 |
Diagnostic support system for diabetes and storage medium
A diagnostic support system for diabetes including an input device used for inputting diagnostic data including clinical testing data; a biological model having parameters and which represents a organ function related to diabetes as a numerical model; an predicting means for predicting parameter values suited for a patient based on the diagnostic data and the biological model; a pathological condition analyzing means for analyzing a diabetic pathological condition of a patient based on the parameter values predicted by the predicting means; a diagnostic support information generating means for generating diagnostic support information based on the analyzed pathological condition; and a diagnostic support information outputting means for outputting information obtained by the diagnostic support information generating means. A computer-readable storage medium is also disclosed. |
| US07914448B2 |
Cooling means for electronic components preferably of an endoscope
A cooling structure of a heat-generating electronic component including a cooling circuit, which includes a cooling fluid delivery unit, a first heat exchanger for absorbing and discharging thermal energy at the heat-generating electronic component as well as a control structure. The control structure adjusts the cooling fluid flow and thus the cooling capacity of the heat exchanger to such value that at a predetermined temperature in the area of the electronic component a balance is brought about between the heat quantity generated and the heat quantity discharged. The cooling structure is inserted in the deflecting forming a bendable adapter outside the end cap of an endoscope. |
| US07914442B1 |
Endoscopic smart probe and method
An improved endoscopic device which is introduced into the intestinal tract of a living organism and which operates autonomously therein, adapted to obtain and store or transmit one or more types of data such as visual image data, laser autofluorescence data, or ultrasonic waveform data. In another aspect of the invention, an improved endoscopic device useful for implanting the aforementioned endoscopic smart probe is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for delivering agents including nanostructures, radionuclides, medication, and ligands is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for obtaining a biopsy of intestinal tissue is disclosed. In another aspect of the invention, apparatus for detecting the presence of one or more molecular species within the intestine is disclosed. Methods for inspecting and/or treating the interior regions of the intestinal tract using the aforementioned apparatus are also disclosed. |
| US07914434B2 |
Endoscopic/percutaneous electronic radiation applicator and method of use
Treatment of lesions in any luminal or organ system of mammalian anatomy is performed using an electronic source of ionizing radiation and aided by an endoscopic or percutaneous approach. |
| US07914426B1 |
Twist exercising device
A twist exercising device includes two handle units (1) and a plurality of elastic bars (2) detachably mounted between the two handle units. Thus, the number of the elastic bars mounted between the two handle units can be changed freely so as to adjust the tension of the elastic bars according to the user's requirement. |
| US07914425B2 |
Hydraulic exercise machine system and methods thereof
A hydraulic exercise machine system comprises one or more hydraulic cylinders, a mechanism coupled to at least one of the hydraulic cylinders, and a sensor assembly. Displacement of the mechanism by a person exercising on the hydraulic exercise machine displaces pistons of the hydraulic cylinders relative to the cylinders. The sensor assembly is to sense displacement of a piston relative to its cylinder over time. |
| US07914424B1 |
Methods and apparatus for supporting selectorized dumbbells
Various exercise systems include first and second selectorized dumbbell assemblies; and a frame having first and second weight supports to support respective dumbbell assemblies. Generally speaking, the systems assume multiple configurations to facilitate both use and storage of the dumbbell assemblies. Many of the systems include at least one body supporting platform that is movable between a first position that is suitable for exercise, and a second position that is suitable for transportation and/or storage. |
| US07914422B1 |
Exercise device
An exercise device for exercising a person's body is provided. The exercise device comprises a frame having a first side rail, a second side rail substantially perpendicular to the first side rail, a front rail between the first side rail and the second side rail, and a rear rail opposite the front rail and between the first side rail and the second side rail. A front axle is mounted to the front rail and a rear axle is mounted to the first side rail and the second side rail adjacent the rear rail. A wheel is rotatably attached to each end of each axle. A handlebar is pivotally mounted to and between the first side rail and the second side rail. A propelling gear is rotatably mounted on the handlebar between the first side rail and the second side rail with the gear rotatable in only one direction. A freewheel/gear system is mounted on the rear axle and a rotatable gear is mounted to the front rail. A chain loop is connectingly positioned around the propelling gear, the freewheel/gear system, and the rotatable gear. A pair of guide rails extends between and mounted to the rear axle and the handlebar and a seat is movable along the guide rails. A pair of footrests is mounted to the front axle wherein upon the handlebar being pivoted in a first direction, the exercise device is propelled in a generally forward direction. |
| US07914419B2 |
Physical activity manager
A system that facilitates activity management and tracking with respect to an individual is disclosed. The innovation employs the notion of establishing a strategy to compress activity information into an identifying indicia (e.g., two-dimensional barcode) that can be processed (e.g., scanned) by a wide array of devices (e.g., mobile phone, personal data assistant). The innovation discloses a system that facilitates the ability to plan, monitor and log activity of an individual. The planning phase enables a user or third party (e.g., health-care professional) to proactively define an exercise or activity regimen for a user. The monitoring phase enables real-time fitness and/or activity tracking of an individual. Finally, the logging phase enables a user to log the information into a fitness log that can be subsequently used in health or fitness-related assessment. |
| US07914417B2 |
Shift control apparatus of automatic transmission
A shift control method and apparatus of an automatic transmission for controlling a shift from one speed, achieved by engagement of a first and a second frictional element, to another speed, achieved by engagement of a third and a fourth frictional element. The method includes detecting a rotation speed of a turbine, detecting a rotation speed of at least one operating member of at least one planetary gear set of the automatic transmission, and controlling the shift according to the rotation speeds of the turbine and the operating member. The control includes overlapping a first shift, from the one speed to an additional speed, with a second shift, from the additional speed to the other speed. The additional speed has a gear ratio that is near a gear ratio of the one speed. |
| US07914415B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is provided with three planetary gear units and five friction elements. The first planetary gear unit includes a first sun gear that is always fixed, a first carrier supporting a first pinion in meshed engagement with the first sun gear and a first ring gear in meshed engagement with the first pinion. The first to fifth friction elements are operatively arranged with respect to the first, second and third planetary gear units to selectively establish at least seven forward speeds and one reverse speed by combining simultaneous engagement of two out of five friction elements for transmitting torque from the input shaft to the output shaft. |
| US07914411B2 |
Drive train for the transmission of a variable power
A drive train having a power-split transmission for distributing the power to at least one first power branch and at least one second power branch. The first power branch at least indirectly drives an electric generator, while a connection is established between the first power branch and the second power branch by a hydrodynamic circuit, which is disposed at the output end of the power-split transmission. The power flow is influenced in such a way by the hydrodynamic circuit that the speed at which the electric generator is driven is substantially constant. |
| US07914408B2 |
Multiple-cushion ring sprocket assembly
A cushion ring sprocket assembly includes a sprocket body with a plurality of teeth arranged in a row. The sprocket body includes first and second opposite axial tooth faces and first and second hubs that extend axially outward relative to the first and second tooth faces. First and second sets of cushion rings are captured on said first and second hubs, respectively. The first set of cushion rings includes at least a first inner cushion ring eccentrically located on the first hub and a first outer cushion ring eccentrically located on the first inner cushion ring. The second set of cushion rings includes at least a second inner cushion ring eccentrically located on the second hub and a second outer cushion ring eccentrically located on the second inner cushion ring. The first and second outer cushion rings are adapted to be contacted and deflected by link plates of an associated chain, so that the first and second outer cushion rings contact and deflect the respective first and second inner cushion rings. First and second retaining devices are connected to the first and second hubs to capture the first and second ring sets on the first and second hubs, respectively. |
| US07914407B2 |
Bicycle front derailleur assembly
A manually operated bicycle front derailleur assembly includes a linkage assembly, a lever member and a connecting link. The linkage assembly is supported to a fixing member and includes an inner link pivotally coupled to the fixing member at a first pivot point, an extension arm extending from proximate the first pivot point, an outer link pivotally coupled to the fixing member at a second pivot point, and a chain guide pivotally coupled to the inner and outer links to move between an inner shift position and an outer shift position. The lever member is pivotally supported relative to the fixing member and the bicycle frame spaced apart from the first and second pivot points. The connecting link operatively connects the lever member to the extension arm such that the linkage assembly moves in response to movement of the lever member. |
| US07914403B2 |
Hockey stick
A composite hockey stick having a tubular hollow shaft and a blade is disclosed. The shaft includes a region of focused weight in the form of an overlay coating that is applied on top if the internal surfaces of the cured shaft using a coating plug. The blade includes a focused weight region that is inserted into a cavity within the cured composite blade. Methods and suitable materials for constructions of the various components of the blade and shaft are also disclosed. |
| US07914397B2 |
Golf ball
Golf ball 2 has a spherical core 4, a mid layer 6 covering this core 4, a reinforcing layer 8 covering this mid layer 6, and a cover 10 covering this reinforcing layer 8. Base polymer of this mid layer 6 includes an ionomer resin as a principal component. Base polymer of this cover 10 includes a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer as a principal component. The cover 10 has a thickness Tc of equal to or less than 0.6 mm. The cover 10 has a hardness Hc as measured with a Shore D type hardness scale of equal to or less than 54. The cover 10 has a volume V of equal to or less than 3.0 cm3. A product obtained by multiplying the thickness Tc, the hardness Hc and the volume V is equal to or less than 90. The reinforcing layer 8 includes a thermosetting resin as a base polymer. The reinforcing layer has a thickness of 3 μm or greater and 50 μm or less. |
| US07914391B2 |
Golf swing training device
A golf swing training device includes a base, an extension bar, and a grid assembly. The grid assembly includes a grid and a putting flange. The grid assembly further includes a grid adjuster connecting the grid and putting flange to the extension bar. An alignment rod is removably coupled to the base. |
| US07914388B2 |
Golf swing training apparatus
A golf swing training apparatus consisting of positioning, indicating and guidance means cooperable with a golf club for learning, practicing and performing essential components of a swing method based on a concept of a lower swing phase related predominantly to a vertical virtual axis around which the body rotates, an upper swing phase related predominantly to a horizontal virtual axis tied to the vertical virtual axis and around which the arms swing and a “wrist cocking plane” maintained in a fixed relationship to the forearms, said essential components being: appropriate gripping formation; configuration of the forearms wrists hands and club when the wrists are fully cocked within the “wrist cocking plane”, appropriate relationships of arms, wrists, hands and club to the lower body in the lower swing phase; and relationship of the club and ‘wrist cocking plane” to the shoulders at the end of the backswing. |
| US07914386B1 |
Bucking horse simulator apparatus
A bucking horse simulator apparatus includes a frame that has a first lateral side, a second lateral side and a front end. A hitch connector is attached to the front end. An axle is attached to the frame and a pair of support wheels is attached to opposite ends of the axle. A post is attached to and extends upwardly from the frame. A beam is pivotally coupled to an upper end of the post. A cover is positioned on the beam. A drive wheel is rotatably mounted to the frame. A leg is attached to the drive wheel and to the beam to lift and lower the beam when the drive wheel is rotated. The hitch connector is coupled to a vehicle to pull the frame and rotate the drive wheel to simulate bucking horse to a person seated on the cover. |
| US07914385B2 |
Dasher boards
Dasher board assemblies and methods for making the same. An example dasher board assembly may include a dasher board frame. A facing panel may be coupled to the frame. An adhesive member may be disposed between the frame and the facing panel. The adhesive member may attach the facing panel to the frame. |
| US07914384B2 |
Amusement device
An amusement device has an elongated track along which one or more amusement device seat assemblies adapted to carry the one or more passengers are moveable. Each seat assembly has a seat with a seating surface and a back support with a back support surface. The seat assembly further includes a bar construction attached to a pivot mechanism. This bar construction has a hip bar and one or more pivot arms integral with the hip bar, which bar construction is pivotable about the pivot axis from a raised position in which the hip bar is raised from the seating surface to allow a passenger to sit down in the amusement device seat assembly, to a lowered position. No part of the bar construction takes away the view of the person and limits the movements of the arms of the person, allowing the passenger to experience a great sense of freedom. |
| US07914379B2 |
Video game controller
A video game includes a controller, a processor and display. The controller includes a special quick look button 28 that, when activated, allows a player to causes a looking movement of a character that simulates the lateral rotation of the head or upper body of a person looking sideways while walking forward. |
| US07914377B2 |
Gaming device with dynamic progressive and bonus architecture
A gaming device, a gaming system and a method for operating a gaming device or gaming system with a plurality of bonus and/or progressive outcomes is disclosed. The present disclosure provides a bonus and/or progressive architecture that enables a central controller to add or remove bonusing and/or progressive features from one or more gaming devices in a gaming system. In one embodiment, the central controller designates one or more game outcomes in a paytable as designated game outcomes. If the gaming device generates one of the designated game outcomes, the central controller dynamically determines a bonus award and/or a progressive award in conjunction with a manner of presenting the bonus award and/or the progressive award to the player of the gaming device. If the gaming device does not generate a designated game outcome, the gaming device provides the player an award that is associated with the generated outcome based on the paytable. |
| US07914376B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining and presenting outcomes at a gaming device
A gaming device provides outcomes to the player of the gaming device by positioning symbols within a scrolling matrix. If the symbols position within the scrolling matrix matches a pay event outcome, the player may receive a benefit. In a first embodiment, the symbols are generated from the symbols of a basic game such as the symbols on a slot machine reel. The symbols are moved from the slot machine reel to the matrix. |
| US07914371B2 |
Instant-win lottery game and ticket
A method for playing an extension game to an instant lottery game is disclosed. A player purchases an instant lottery game and wins a prize for the instant lottery game. The player is provided a chance to participate in the extension game of double-or-nothing. If the player chooses to participate in the extension game of double-or-nothing, the player tenders his winning ticket to a lottery retailer. The winning ticket is scanned by a lottery terminal and a result is generated for the extension game of double-or-nothing. If the winning ticket is also a winner of the extension game, the player doubles his winning. If the winning ticket is not a winner, the player forfeits his winning from the instant lottery game. |
| US07914368B2 |
Methods and systems for playing baccarat jackpot with an option for insurance betting
A method and system for playing jackpot and live baccarat games on a baccarat machine with an option for insurance betting. After first two cards are dealt to a player's hand and a banker's hand, according to a set of baccarat rules, and one or more of the players are allowed to place a bet on live baccarat on either the banker's hand to win or the player's hand to win, an insurance bet becomes available for the player to be placed on the player's hand or the banker's hand and various rules are set forth for winning the insurance bet. |
| US07914367B2 |
Front/rear removable fan mounting method and apparatus
A fan assembly and mounting method is provided for mounting a fan within an electrical enclosure. The assembly includes a mounting assembly which houses the fan and can be removed from the exterior of the enclosure. The fan assembly also includes an interior mounting plate which can be detached from the mounting assembly to allow fan removal from the interior of the enclosure. Thus, the fan assembly allows the fan to be accessed from both the interior and exterior of the enclosure. |
| US07914366B2 |
Storage apparatus
Provided is a cooling method for realizing efficient cooling of a storage apparatus with an airflow separation structure. This storage apparatus has a plurality of cooling areas formed in the cabinet; an external air introduction/discharge device for directing external air to the respective cooling areas, and thereafter discharging the external air from a discharge area of the cabinet outside the cabinet; and an external air guidance area for guiding the external air that passed through each of the cooling areas to the discharge area; wherein the external air guidance area is configured so that the external air that passed through one cooling area will not get mixed with the external air that passed through another cooling area. |
| US07914365B2 |
Microbiocidal control in the processing of meat-producing four-legged animals
Methods of processing four-legged slaughter animals for consumption as meat and/or meat product(s) are described. The methods comprise I) contacting exterior surfaces of the live animal at least once with a microbiocidal solution formed from mixing together at least (i) water and (ii) at least one N,N′-bromochloro-5,5-dialkylhydantoin, such contacting occurring at least once when the animal is en route to being slaughtered but before it is killed by exsanguination; or II) contacting the carcass of the animal, after exsanguination, with a microbiocidal solution formed from mixing together at least (i) water and (ii) at least one N,N′-bromochloro-5,5-dialkylhydantoin or III) contacting at least one raw meat product and/or at least one processed meat product derived from the carcass. The contacting can be done one or more times in each of I), II), and III). Considerable advantages, which are described, are realized when using such methods. |
| US07914361B1 |
Entertainment apparatus and methods propelling toy vehicles about multiple tracks
An entertainment apparatus and methods propelling toy vehicles about multiple tracks providing a variety of play modes while mechanically driven by a single motor and simple belt sub-system. A motor and a plurality of adjacent discs disposed in the same horizontal plane are mechanically engaged with the motor for rotating the discs simultaneously in the same direction. An object alternately engages each of the plurality of discs and at least one transition area is adjacent the plurality of discs and disposed in the same horizontal plane for facilitating the action of the object about the plurality of discs. One or more objects are propelled about one or more tracks providing a variety of play modes. |
| US07914360B2 |
Illuminated balloon
A lighted assembly includes an inflated balloon, a light assembly affixed to a patch, and the patch affixed to the inflated balloon such that the light assembly is between the patch and the outer surface of the balloon. |
| US07914358B2 |
Method for manufacturing field emission electron source having carbon nanotubes
A method for manufacturing a field emission electron source includes: (a) Providing a carbon nanotube (CNT) film, the CNT film has a plurality of CNTs, the CNTs are aligned along a same direction; a first electrode and a second electrode. (b) Fixing the two opposite sides of the CNT film on the first electrode and the second electrode, the CNTs in the CNT film extending from the first electrode to the second electrode. (c) Treating the CNT film with an organic solvent to form at least one CNT string. (d) Applying a voltage between two opposite ends of the CNT string until the CNT string snaps, thereby at least one CNT needle, the CNT needle has an end portion and a broken end portion. (e) Securing the CNT needle to a conductive base by attaching the end portion of the CNT needle to the conductive base. |
| US07914354B2 |
Method of fabricating an organic light emitting display
An OLED and a method of fabricating the same are provided, in which, when a reflective layer pattern is formed, a thin layer for a pixel electrode is opened at an edge of an emission region to form the pixel electrode without additional photolithography and etching processes by forming an undercut under the edge of the reflective layer pattern, i.e., under the edge of the emission region by over-etching, thereby simplifying the process and increasing the yield. |
| US07914352B2 |
Cover for a flotation device and flotation device employing same
A cover for a flotation device includes a single piece fabric configured and dimensioned so as to slip over and completely enclose an individual noodle type flotation device and adapted for removal and replacement by the same or another cover. The cover possesses reopenable closures such as drawstring, zipper, button, snap and/or hook and loop type closures at the ends of the cover or along its length. |
| US07914348B1 |
Probe connector
A probe connector includes an insulating housing having a base, and a plurality of probe pin assemblies. The base defines a front surface which has a plurality of inserting holes arranged side by side. The inserting hole has a channel at a bottom thereof and reaching a rear surface of the base, and a mating lump protruded inwards from a rear portion of an inner surface thereof. The probe pin assembly has a cylindraceous barrel received in the inserting hole, an elastic element accommodated in the barrel, and a plunger. The barrel has a notch at a rear end of a periphery thereof for engaging with the mating lump. A conduct element of strip shape is extended rearwards from the rear end of the barrel, and exposed out of the insulating housing through the channel for being soldered to a PCB. |
| US07914346B2 |
Communications jacks having contact wire configurations that provide crosstalk compensation
Communications jacks include a housing having a plug aperture that is configured to receive a mating plug that is inserted along a horizontal plug axis and a vertically-oriented wiring board that is mounted substantially normal to the horizontal plug axis. First through fourth contact wires are mounted in the vertically-oriented wiring board, with the first and second contact wires forming a first differential pair of contact wires and the third and fourth contact wires forming a second differential pair of contact wires. At least a portion of the first differential pair of contact wires is positioned between the contact wires of the second differential pair of contact wires, and deflectable portions of the third and fourth contact wires include a crossover. Additionally, the fixed portions of the third and fourth contacts are spaced further apart vertically than are the fixed portions of the first and second contacts. |
| US07914340B2 |
Audio signal switcher
An audio signal switcher includes a jack switcher and a plug switcher. The jack switcher includes an audio jack and a first USB port. The first USB port includes a first data pin, a second data pin, a power pin, and a ground pin. The audio jack includes a left track segment, a right track segment, and a ground segment, which are isolated coupled to at least three pins of the first USB port. The plug switcher includes an audio plug and a second USB port. The audio plug includes a left track segment and a right track segment which are coupled to a first data pin and a second data pin of the second USB port, respectively. The plug also includes a ground segment divided into a left ground ring and a right ground ring which are connected together to couple to a ground pin of the USB port. |
| US07914335B2 |
Strip connectors for measurement devices
Devices including strip connectors in measurement devices are provided. Also provided are systems, kits and methods. |
| US07914332B2 |
Self-locking electronic circuit card mounting assemblies and methods
Electronic circuit card mounting assemblies and methods are disclosed. An electronic circuit card and an electronic equipment system include mating connectors to operatively couple the circuit card to the equipment system. The circuit card and the equipment system also include respective mating elements of a mounting assembly that engage each other to releasably mount the electronic circuit card to the electronic equipment system. The connectors and the elements of the mounting assembly are positioned to releasably hold the connectors in an operative position when the circuit card is mounted to the equipment system. Related methods of manufacturing electronic circuit cards and equipment systems are also provided. In one embodiment, the mounting assembly elements include a key and a socket to receive the key, and the key and the socket control one or more of a circuit card insertion force, a circuit card retention force, and a circuit removal force. |
| US07914330B2 |
Card connector with a metal shell
A card connector adapted for receiving a SIM card includes an insulating housing having a front surface and two opposite lateral surfaces. The front surface has at least one receiving recess extending rearward. Each of the lateral surfaces has a propping portion which passes through a top surface of the insulating housing. A plurality of connecting terminals is received in the insulating housing. The metal shell coupled with the insulating housing has a covering plate and two lateral plates extending downwards from two opposite sides of the covering plate. A front edge of the covering plate has at least one first mating portion of L shape of which a bottom is received in the receiving recess. A bottom of the lateral plate curves inwards to form a resistive portion resting against the propping portion for forming a chamber for receiving the SIM card. |
| US07914329B2 |
Card connector
A card connector comprises a plurality of contacts, a frame, a shell and a locator. Each of the plurality of contacts comprises a first portion extending in a first direction and a second portion extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Each contact has substantially an L-like shape. The frame has a front end portion and a rear end portion. The rear end portion holds, in part, the first portions of the contacts. The first portions extend into a space defined by the frame toward the front end portion in the first direction. The second portions extend away from the frame in the second direction. The shell is attached to the frame. The shell shields, in part, the second portions of the contacts. The locator is supported by the shell. The locator is distinct from the shell. The locator holds, in part, the second portions of the contacts so that the second portions penetrate the locator. |
| US07914326B2 |
Coaxial cable connector
A coaxial cable connector is provided with a generally tubular mandrel. An attachment element and a retainer are associated with the mandrel and a bushing is telescopically mounted on the retainer. The bushing is adapted for axial movement along the retainer to a closed position wherein the bushing biases a first portion of the retainer into sealing engagement with a seating surface on the exterior of the mandrel. The retainer is sufficiently translucent to permit visual observation of a cable inserted into the retainer. |
| US07914322B2 |
Cable connector and assembly thereof with improved housing structure
A cable connector includes an insulative housing defining a mounting chamber, a bottom surface positioned at the bottom of mounting chamber and a number of longitudinal ribs formed on the bottom surface while extending upwardly beyond the bottom surface. Multiple contacts are fixed in the insulative housing and include a number of soldering tails under an arrangement that each adjacent two soldering tails are separated by one of the ribs. A space between adjacent edges of the adjacent two soldering tails is much bigger than a width of the corresponding rib which is located between the adjacent two soldering tails for preventing short circuit of the soldering tails. |
| US07914320B2 |
Cable connector assembly with sticky film
A cable connector assembly (100) includes an insulative housing (2), a plurality of contacts (3) received in the insulative housing, a cable (7) electrically connected with the contacts, a light guiding member (6), a cover enclosing the insulative housing and the cable, a LED covered by the light guiding member and a pair of films (9) located between the LED and one side of the insulative housing. And the films (9) are shielding a gap between the insulative housing and the cover. |
| US07914318B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connection system includes a first electrical connector having a first plurality of electrically conductive elements. A second electrical connector has a second plurality of electrically conductive elements and is matable with the first electrical connector such that the first plurality of electrically conductive elements are in contact with the second plurality of electrically conductive elements. A probe is mounted with respect to the first electrical connector, and a receptacle is mounted with respect to the second electrical connector. The probe has a tip, an untapered section, a tapered section between the tip and the untapered section, and a cross-sectional shape that has no more than one plane of mirror symmetry. The receptacle defines a cavity having substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the probe. |
| US07914314B2 |
Electrical contact with multiple contacting points
An electrical contact comprises a contacting end having a slot tapered toward a free end of the contacting end, the slot defining opposite inner walls, a first, second contacting points being formed on the opposite inner walls respectively at a narrow part of the slot. A third contacting point extends from one of the opposite inner walls at the narrow part of the slot. A pin of a CPU can synchronously engage with the three contacting points. Thus, improved engagement between the pin and the contact will be provided. |
| US07914313B1 |
Clamping mechanism for an IC socket
A clamping mechanism (18) for an IC socket (14) is disclosed having two moveable arms (36) which are spaced apart on opposite sides of the IC socket (14), with first ends pivotally secured to a fixed shaft (34) at moveable arm pivot points for moving from a lifted position to a lowered position, extending across the IC socket (14). Two clamp arms (38) are spaced apart on opposite sides of the IC socket (14), and have formed ends (40) pivotally secured to the second ends (166) of the moveable arms (36) at latch pivot points. The clamp arms (38) are configured such that, when the moveable arms (36) are disposed in the lowered positions and the clamp arms (38) are disposed in the clamping positions, a hooking shaft (32) is disposed in the self-locking positions in openings (156) in the clamp arms (38) such that upward forces applied to the moveable arms (36) will engage the hooking shaft (32) against the clamp arms (38) and urge the clamp arms (38) into the latched position. |
| US07914305B2 |
Backplane connector with improved pin header
A backplane electrical connector having a pin header that includes a one-piece housing supporting a plurality of columns of edge coupled differential signal pairs of contacts each separated by a ground contact. The pin header housing base is formed with a plurality of air passageways extending through the base, including an air passageway disposed between each signal contact in one column and an immediately adjacent signal contact in an adjacent column for electrically isolating the adjacent signal contacts from each other by an air dielectric medium. Core-outs which extend only partially through the housing base are provided between each signal contact and an adjacent ground contact in an adjacent column for further isolating differential signal pairs. |
| US07914300B2 |
Terminal mounting structure in electrical junction box
A structure for screw-tightening and connecting a terminal to an electrical junction box is provided. The terminal mounting structure in the electrical junction box ensures mounting operation with an insertion direction of the terminal obliquely oriented, and prevents heating of the terminal due to power supply. The terminal is secured and connected to a busbar of the junction box by a bolt, with a head and a shaft of the bolt inserted into a vertical opening and a horizontal notched hole of the terminal, respectively. A pair of opposed guiding walls are provided on a junction box body at both sides of the bolt. The guiding wall includes an entrance's side sloping surface obliquely extending from top to bottom, and a straight horizontal surface continuing to the sloping surface. The terminal includes a pair of outward projecting pieces at an upper portion to be slid on the sloping surface and the horizontal surface. A heat release portion extends integrally at an upper portion of a vertical plate portion of the terminal having the vertical opening. Linear indentations are provided on front and back surfaces of the heat release portion to be exposed outside. |
| US07914295B2 |
Electrical connecting device
An electrical connecting device for electrically connecting between two contacted articles, comprising a push member, a lock member, which holds one of the contacted articles in a predetermined mount position through the push member, a base member, to which the two contacted articles are mounted, an elastic member held on the base member, and a plurality of contacts held on the elastic member, and wherein the base member includes an upper base member and a lower base member, each including an accommodating recess, which accommodates the elastic member, the elastic member includes slits, respectively, holding the plurality of contacts, the plurality of contacts, respectively, include at least an upper contact arm having an upper contact portion and a lower contact arm having a lower contact portion, and the upper and lower contact portions of each of the plurality of contacts are structured to enable abutting against the elastic member. |
| US07914292B2 |
Electric plug and method of providing the same
Embodiments of a rotatable electric plug and related methods are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein. |
| US07914288B2 |
On demand learning
Learning activities in an organization are allocated for work apart, work embedded, and work enabled learning types. In work apart learning, employees leave the work itself and learn through traditional classroom or technology enhanced methods. Work embedded learning occurs on the job without interrupting the flow of work. Work embedded learning uses the power of experience and execution with small responsive training modules embedded in the work process. Work enabled learning provides knowledge transfer and comprehension through experiences and interactions within the context of the work place. A business process permits an organization to rework existing learning programs and allocate resources for new programs to optimally address employee learning needs. |
| US07914286B2 |
Teaching game method for simulating management of a business operation
A game that teaches principles of dynamic business management by advancing tokens (20) along a work flow path (22) on a playing surface (24) to simulate multiple processes of a fictitious business enterprise over time. The work flow path (22) includes at least three distinct and progressive processing areas (30, 32, 34, 36), each representing a different value-added function of the fictitious business. A constraint zone (38) having a specified token (20) capacity is established in each processing area (30, 32, 34, 36), and all tokens (20) must pass through each constraint zone (38) during the play of the game. The token (20) capacity of at least one of the constraint zones (38) may be changed by the players by adding or subtracting work capacity squares (50, 52) during a round to provoke variations in the rate of token (20) advance along the work flow path (22) to thereby simulate a management decision on a dynamic system over time so that its effects can be observed. |
| US07914277B1 |
Heater housing and heater for plastic injection machine nozzle
A plastic injection machine nozzle heater housing and heater. The heater housing includes a heater body having an axial thru-bore for receiving a plastic injection machine nozzle of interest. Bores may extend into the heater body from a rear face thereof for receiving corresponding cartridge heater(s) and a thermocouple. A wire receiving groove may be provided to hold the cartridge heater and thermocouple wires. A wire passage aperture may be provided to permit the cartridge heater and thermocouple wires to extend from the heater body for appropriate connection to a heater controller or other appropriate device. Cartridge heater(s) and a thermocouple are inserted into the corresponding bores and a cover plate of the heater housing is then secured to the end of the heater body so as to cover the heater(s), the thermocouple, and the portion of the associated wires residing in the wire receiving groove. |
| US07914275B1 |
Apparatus for making high density wood and plastic composites
There is disclosed a pressing apparatus for fabricating a dense, rigid, durable panel from a molten composite material, such as a composite of wood fibers and thermoplastic. The apparatus features a first platen in spaced and angled relation to a second platen to define a gap between said platens. The gap decreases uniformly from first ends of the platens toward second ends of the platens, and conveyer belts, movably disposed along opposing surfaces of said platens, move molten composite material through the decreasing gap to compress the molten composite material between the platens, while substantially simultaneously the material undergoes first passive and then active cooling into a rigid sheet. |
| US07914272B2 |
Device for stretch-forming flexible preimpregnated bands
The system for stretch-forming composite material bands (3) includes, in addition to an unrolling head (20), an original assembly composed of a light source (4) for heating the band (3) and hardening the composite and a pair of rollers (6a and 6b) applying the desired pressure to assemble the band to a laminated composite (2) already deposited or applying it to the support (1). As the application of heat is concentrated at a distance from the rollers (6a and 6b) and with a perpendicular incidence, the rollers can be conveniently made of an elastic material, which enables them to adapt to the transverse curvature of the support equipment (1) and to apply a uniform pressure. |
| US07914271B2 |
Gate insert heating and cooling
Disclosed, amongst other things, is a gate insert of an injection mold that includes a base member. The base member defines a nozzle interface for receiving, in use, a nozzle of a melt distribution system that is heated, in use, by a heater, and a gate, the gate configured to fluidly link, in use, a melt channel of the nozzle with a molding cavity. The gate insert further includes a thermal regulator associated with the base member, the thermal regulator includes a direct energy conversion device that is capable of heating and cooling, wherein the thermal regulator is controllably operable, in use, to control the temperature of the gate. |
| US07914267B2 |
Multistage compressor for a CO2 cycle that includes a rotary compressing mechanism and a scroll compressing mechanism
It is an object of the present invention to provide a multistage compressor employing a gas injection system for a CO2 cycle which is able to improve the compression efficiency and the compression performance thereof. In a multistage compressor (2) for a CO2 cycle (1) that carries out two-stage compression by discharging CO2 refrigerant gas compressed in a low-stage side rotary compressing mechanism (4) into a closed housing (3) and taking intermediate pressure refrigerant gas in the closed housing (3) by a high-stage side scroll compressing mechanism (5), a gas injection circuit (15) for injecting intermediate pressure CO2 refrigerant gas extracted from a refrigerant circuit into the closed housing (3) is connected to the closed housing (3), and the pressure ratios of the low-stage side rotary compressing mechanism (4) and the high-stage side scroll compressing mechanism (5) are substantially equivalent, and the ratios of displacement volume are substantially equivalent. |
| US07914262B2 |
Electrohydrodynamic pump (EHD pump) with electrode arrangement
To improve the configuration of electrodes disposed in the fluid channel of EHD pumps, and to reduce of the fluid channel of EHD pumps, as well as to reduce the cost of producing EHD pumps, and to increase the pumping pressure of EHD pumps. A hollow conical metal electrode open at the top end and the bottom end is used facing a rod-shaped metal electrode, and an electrically insulated fluid outflow channel is formed facing the hollow conical metal electrode, with the hollow conical metal electrode and rod-shaped metal electrode sharing a central axis, so that the two electrodes are disposed coaxially, and the rod-shaped metal electrode is disposed from the inner portion of the hollow conical metal electrode to the inner portion of the fluid outflow channel, and a portion of the rod-shaped metal electrode, positioned at the interface of at least the inner portion of the hollow conical metal electrode and the fluid outflow channel, serves as an exposed metal part, with this exposed metal part being caused to face the inner surface of the hollow conical metal electrode, and when an electric field is applied across the hollow conical metal electrode and the rod-shaped metal electrode, there is introduced a fluid wherein are formed dissociated ions, and high voltage direct current is applied across the hollow conical metal electrode and the rod-shaped metal electrode. |
| US07914261B2 |
Rotor blade for a wind power plant
The invention concerns a rotor blade of a wind power installation and a wind power installation. One advantage of the present invention is to provide a rotor blade having a rotor blade profile, and a wind power installation, which has better efficiency than hitherto. A rotor blade of a wind power installation, wherein the rotor blade has a thickness reserve approximately in the range of between 15% and 40%, preferably in the range of between about 23% and 28%, and wherein the greatest profile thickness is between about 20% and 45%, preferably between about 32% and 36%. |
| US07914257B1 |
Turbine rotor blade with spiral and serpentine flow cooling circuit
A turbine rotor blade for a gas turbine engine that includes a five-pass spiral serpentine flow cooling circuit with a first channel extending along the pressure side of the blade, a second channel extending along the suction side of the blade and connected to the first channel at the airfoil tip, a third channel extending along the pressure side and connected to the second channel in the root portion, and fourth channel extending along the suction side and connected to the third channel at the blade tip, and a fifth channel extending along the trailing edge and discharging cooling air through exit holes. The first and second channels are opposite to each other and have the same chordwise length, and the third and fourth channels are opposite to each other and have the same chordwise length to form a spiral flow path between the second and third channels and between the fourth and fifth channels. All five channels are connected in series to form the serpentine flow path. A leading edge supply channel provides for cooling air to a showerhead arrangement, and the leading edge channel is connected to the first channel at the blade tip. Pin fins and trip strips enhance the heat transfer coefficient from the blade to the cooling air throughout the channels. |
| US07914256B2 |
Articles made from composite materials having toughened and untoughened regions
Articles having a body including a composite material having at least one toughened region and at least one untoughened region, the toughened region containing a toughening agent selected from the group consisting of polymers, nano fibers, nano particles, and combinations thereof where the toughened region includes a toughened resin having a fracture toughness of at least about 1.0 MPa-m1/2. |
| US07914251B2 |
Liner panel
A liner panel for a fan casing of a gas turbine engine includes a honeycomb layer, a septum layer and an abradable layer. The fan casing is provided with a containment system in case of fan blade failure. In use, ice may be released from a fan blade in a first direction, and (in the case of a blade-off event) a fan blade or part of a fan blade may be released in a second direction. The panel has a compressive strength greater in the first direction than in the second direction such that the released ice will be deflected by the panel but the released fan blade or part of a fan blade will pass through the panel. |
| US07914249B2 |
Shoveling apparatus with multi-positional shovel
A shoveling apparatus including a low profile vehicle, a boom assembly, and a shovel assembly for use in underground mining operations, and particularly useful in clearing coal and rock debris from a belt line corridor. The low profile vehicle includes an advanceable support that supports the boom assembly and laterally advances the boom assembly from the cab portion of the vehicle. The boom assembly includes a support structure, a rotary actuator and a linear actuator, to control lateral and vertical rotation of the support structure (and thus the shovel assembly) with respect to a ground surface. The shovel assembly includes a rotary actuator and a shovel, and in some embodiments a tilting mechanism, to control the lateral and in some cases vertical, rotation of the shovel with respect to the boom assembly. |
| US07914244B2 |
Fastener with zoned, varying wave-form thread
A threaded fastener includes a shank having a tip and a head configured for engagement by an associated driving tool. The fastener is configured for use with an associated threaded opening. The head is disposed on the shank opposite the tip. The shank has a helical thread formed thereon. The thread extends from about the tip to about the head and defines a plurality of zones. Each zone has a plurality of individual threads extending 360 degrees about the shank. A leading thread in each zone is formed with a wave-form profile having an amplitude that is greater than the amplitude of each prior leading thread. In one embodiment, threads other than the leading thread in each zone do not have an amplitude as great as their respective leading threads. A fastening assembly is also disclosed. |
| US07914242B2 |
Aligning a machine tool with a target location on a structure
An apparatus for aligning a machine tool with a target location on a structure. A machine plate positionable on the structure has a plate bushing providing a hole through the plate. The apparatus also includes a nosepiece for guiding a distal end of the tool through the plate bushing to the target location. The nosepiece has a collet configured to be moved at least partly through and sideward in the plate bushing to center the nosepiece on an element projecting from the structure at the target location. The nosepiece can be attached to the plate bushing to establish normality of the tool relative to the projecting element. |
| US07914240B2 |
Cutting tool
A cutting tool (10) comprises a shank (12) for receiving a cutting insert (14) and a block (16) for delivering a flow of fluid to the cutting insert (14). Fluid is delivered to the cutting insert (14) through a fluid passageway (18) that extends through the shank (12) and the block (16). The block (16) is pivotable mounted on the shank (12). The block (16) pivots about screw (22) between a first and a second position. In the first position the block (16) is held in sealing arrangement with the shank (12) to allow the passage of a coolant through the fluid passage (18) to the cutting insert (14). In the second position the block (16) has moved to allow removal of the cutting insert (14) from the shank (12). |
| US07914237B2 |
Method and apparatus for inserting sheet piles within highly resistant earth formations
A method and apparatus for inserting a sheet pile (10) into an earth formation using a protective housing (12) releasably connected to the sheet pile (10). The protective housing has a fluid gallery and conduits for releasing fluid such as water onto the base of the sheet pile without jetting water into the earth formation. The method and apparatus are particularly suited for driving vinyl and plastic sheet piles into highly resistant soils. |
| US07914234B2 |
Method and apparatus for restraining a tendon top connector in reverse loading conditions
A tendon top connector for a moored, floating structure such as a tension leg platform, a tension leg buoy or the like has a bowl-shaped extension on the member which transfers the tension of the tendon to the flex connector. A dome-shaped structure at least partially surrounds the bowl-shaped extension but is spaced apart from it to permit at least some rotational movement of the connector. The dome-shaped structure may be attached by clamps or other mounting means to a flange member affixed to the tendon porch. This arrangement provides a load path when the tendon top connector is reverse loaded that extends from the tendon length adjustment joint, through slips, through the bowl-shaped extension, through the dome-shaped structure, through the segmented clamps, and finally into a flange attached to the tendon porch. In this way, detachment of the tendon top connector is prevented if a reverse load is applied such as may occur during extreme metocean conditions. |
| US07914224B2 |
Connecting structure for hand-operated tools and handles
This invention is generally directed to a new connecting structure for connecting the bodies of hand-operated tools to their handles. It solves the technical difficulty in standardizing the connection of hand-operated tools and handles. The technical strategy involves separating the connecting structure to the connecting segment and handle fix segment. The axial opening of the handle fix segment fits the shape of handle, and handle is installed into the handle fix segment. The present invention has the advantages of simple design, convenience for mass manufacture, ease and reliability in connecting, assembling, and adjusting standardized connection process, and cost-efficiency in production and transportation. |
| US07914223B2 |
Determinant assembly features for vehicle structures
A determinant assembly feature for a joint assembly and a method of assembly therefor. The joint assembly includes a structure and a web connected thereto. The structure includes a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel, and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg. The web includes a thickness control element and one or more location control elements correspondingly matched to the location control receiving elements. The method includes providing a structure comprising a base, a pair of legs extending from the base to define a channel and one or more location control receiving elements in either leg; providing a web comprising one or more location control elements and a thickness control element; and inserting the web into the structure, wherein the one or more location control elements is correspondingly matched to the one or more location control receiving elements. |
| US07914211B2 |
Optical assemblies
Provided are optical assemblies which allow for optical and mechanical connection between an optical bench and an optical fiber connector. The invention finds particular applicability in the optoelectronics industry in forming micro-optical components. |
| US07914210B2 |
Coupling device for coupling at least one optical waveguide to an optical component
A coupling device for coupling at least one optical waveguide to an optical component having a holding element for holding the at least one optical waveguide, a mounting element for fixing the optical component, and a spacing element. The holding element is fitted to the mounting element. The spacing element is arranged between the holding element and the mounting element, as a result of which the holding element and the mounting element are arranged at a distance from one another. |
| US07914207B1 |
Draw tape bag, adhesive strip therefor and methods of making the same
A liner for a waste receptacle comprises a first wall, a second wall, at least one draw tape hem, at least one draw tape and at least one adhesive strip. The second wall is an extension of the first wall and is laid adjacent the first wall. The draw tape hem is an extension of at least a portion of the free ends of the walls and has the draw tape laid adjacent the terminal end of those free ends. The terminal end of the free ends are folded over the draw tape and joined to the inside surface of the walls. The first wall and the second wall may be joined together along the terminal side edges or may be seamless. The adhesive strip is applied to an exterior surface of the draw tape hem and is provided with a removable protective cover. |
| US07914206B2 |
X-ray apparatus with an x-ray source and an x-ray detector
The invention relates to an x-ray apparatus with an x-ray source and an x-ray detector, with the x-ray source able to be moved in a first plane and the x-ray detector in a second plane parallel to the first plane and not coinciding with the first plane, with the x-ray source and the x-ray detector always able to be aligned to one another, and a object under examination being able to be arranged between the first plane and the second plane, with, by means of a movement of the x-ray source and a movement of the x-ray detector adapted to the movement of the x-ray source, as well as by means of x-rays leaving the x-ray source, penetrating the object under examination and detected by the x-ray detector, a plurality of two-dimensional projections of the object under examination being able to be recorded in different projection directions relative to the object under examination, from which a spatial presentation of the object under examination is able to be determined. |
| US07914202B2 |
First detecting sheet and first thermometric system for detecting and measuring temperature of an object under test, second detecting sheet and second thermometric system for detecting and measuring temperature of a dummy substrate, and heat treatment apparatus using same
A first thermometry system for measuring a temperature of an object under test includes a first detecting sheet having crystal oscillators arranged on a first sheet-like object formed of resin, and a first measuring device for measuring the temperature based on frequencies acquired from the crystal oscillators and corresponding to natural frequencies of the crystal oscillators. In this system, the first detecting sheet is placed in contact with the object under test, whereupon the crystal oscillators provide the natural frequencies corresponding to the temperature of the object under test. The first measuring device measures the temperature of the object under test accurately based on the frequencies corresponding to the natural frequencies. |
| US07914201B2 |
Low cost multimode calorimeter
A structure of calorimeter provides a calorimetric head (1) comprising a calorimetric cell (10) suitable for receiving a sample holding container (20) containing a sample (25) to examine. The cell (10) is arranged according to a first shield (3), or active shield. Outside the active shield (3) a second shield (4), or dynamical shield is present, which comprises a cylindrical hollow body arranged around the active shield (3) for all its length in order to provide a space (5) of determined size. Outside the active shield a thermal bath is present (not shown) at a temperature lower than the first and the second shield (3,4). The dynamic shield (4) allows an effective adjustment of the heat flux through the active shield (3) during calorimetric measures by limiting the heat flux same. In fact, in operative conditions the dynamic shield acts as thermal flywheel and keeps constant the heat flux coming from the active shield (3). More in detail, the presence of the dynamic shield (4) ensures the reduction of the temperature gradient on the active shield (3) and then on the cell (10) containing the sample (20). Furthermore, by keeping the dynamic shield (4) at a suitable temperature difference from the active shield (3), the temperature can be controlled with much less electric power than it would be necessary if the active shield (3) exchanged heat directly with the thermal bath. |
| US07914198B2 |
Modular luminaire system
The modular track luminaire system of the present invention is a modular lighting system which has a lighting unit which is electronically connected to a remote ballast housing by a removable and reattachable insulated cord and plug system, the luminaire unit electrically connected to the ballast housing through the flexible cord and plug system thereby allowing the entire system to be modularized. |
| US07914197B2 |
Light guide member, flat light source device, and display device
A light guide member, a flat light source device and a display device using the light guide member. A plurality of luminescent devices that emit light of violet to blue color are arrayed on a substrate, and a light guide member is disposed upward thereof that includes a first area that consists of a transparent resin and composed of the resin independently, a second area in which there is dissolved in the resin a luminescent substance that generates a second color having a radiation peak wavelength at a wavelength different from a radiation peak wavelength of a luminescent device of the first color, and a third area in which there is dissolved in the resin a luminescent substance that generates a third color having a radiation peak wavelength at a wavelength different from the radiation peak wavelengths of luminescent devices of the first and second colors. |
| US07914196B2 |
Light redirecting film systems having pattern of variable optical elements
Light redirecting film systems comprise a backlight having deformities that cause a majority of the light entering the input edge of the backlight to be emitted from a light output surface of the backlight. In close proximity to the light output surface is a light redirecting film that has a pattern of individual optical elements of well-defined shape to redistribute the light emitted by the light output surface toward a direction normal to the film. |
| US07914190B2 |
Headlamp for vehicle
A headlamp capable of preventing dazzling of an opposite driver is provided. The headlamp includes a projection lens, a reflector, a light source disposed at a first focal point of the reflector, and a light shade part positioned around a second focal point of the reflector. The light shade part includes a first shade comprising a plurality of shading plates for forming a desired light distribution pattern and a second shade formed as a continuous surface or discrete surfaces connected to the uppermost surfaces of the shading plates of the first shade. |
| US07914184B2 |
LED illuminating device and light engine thereof
An LED illuminating device includes an optical section, an electrical section, and a heat dissipation section therebetween. The optical section includes a light source. The electrical section electrically connects with the light source. The heat dissipation section includes a mounting seat, a heat pipe and a heat sink. The heat pipe includes an evaporation section fixed on the mounting seat and thermally connecting with the light source and a condenser section. The heat sink includes a plurality of umbrella-shaped fins each including a main body perpendicular to the condenser section of the heat pipe and two flanges angling downward from two opposite edges of the main body towards the light source. A plurality of air venting holes are defined in the main body and the flanges of each fin. |
| US07914182B2 |
Decorative light fixture including cooling system
A decorative light fixture includes a light engine and a shroud. The light engine includes a heat sink and a light source in thermal communication with the heat sink. The shroud covers the light engine to define an air path between an air inlet and an exhaust. The air inlet is disposed vertically below the exhaust. The air path is shaped to direct air over the heat sink and to exit the shroud above the light engine. |
| US07914180B2 |
Lamp reflector
A lamp reflector includes a reflector cup having an enlarged end and a narrow end being opposite to the enlarged end. The narrow end gradually is expanded toward the enlarged end. The reflecting cup has multiple tiers longitudinally formed thereon along the axis. Each tier has a convex surface annularly formed on an inner periphery thereof for scattering light beams emitted from different angles. Each convex surface has multiple concave faces respectively radially formed thereon for condensing light beams emitted from different angles. |
| US07914179B2 |
Optical plate with V-shaped protrusions on both sides and backlight module using the same
An optical plate includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. A plurality of elongated, arc-shaped depressions is defined in the first surface. A plurality of first elongated, V-shaped protrusions aligned in a first direction and a plurality of second elongated, V-shaped protrusions aligned in a second direction are protruded from the second surface. The first direction and the second direction cooperatively define an angle which is larger than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. |
| US07914178B2 |
LED lamp
A hanging LED lamp includes a base, a heat sink attached to a bottom of the base, a plurality of heat conducting plates coupled to a periphery of the heat sink and connecting with the base and the heat sink, a plurality of LED modules mounted on the heat conducting plates, a cover engaging the base and covering the heat sink, the heat conducting plates and the LED modules therein, and a fixing member connecting a top of the base to fix the LED lamp in a desired position. A plurality of heat pipes are embedded in the heat conducting plates with first ends connecting with the heat sink and second ends connecting with the base. |
| US07914177B2 |
Prophylaxic/therapeutic vehicle filter component for healthy eyes, pseudoaphakic eyes or eyes suffering neurodegeneration
A component with a yellow pigment that absorbs light wavelengths in the range 500 to 380 nm is provided for transparent or translucent components of a vehicle in order to protect healthy eyes, pseudophakic eyes, and eyes with macular and retinal degeneration from harmful ultraviolet rays. The component may be in the form of a filter that is applied on or within these transparent or translucent components of the vehicle. |
| US07914174B2 |
Method to optimize micro-optic lens in LED flashlight application
A micro-optic lens is disclosed. The micro-optic lens includes a substrate; and a lens element on the substrate, wherein the lens element includes a flat surface and an annularly grooved surface including first facets and second facets, and wherein the first facets collimate a light effectively and the second facets are parallel to a light. The micro-optic lens can decrease the draft loss and collimate the emitted light beams to increase the light efficiency. Further, the present invention also provides a method for designing angles of micro-optic lenses. |
| US07914168B2 |
Pop-up christmas tree
A pop-up Christmas tree that is formed by translucent spandex printed fabric member, printed with a graphic of a real Christmas tree, wrapped into a cone shape. An electrically motorized power antenna assembly is located within the hollow trunk of the tree display. A plurality of supporting frames and cords are mounted inside the fabric cone shape. The antenna tip is attached to the internal apex of the fabric cone shape. The base of the cone shape is attached to the perimeter of a molded plastic tree base housing. When the user activates the power antenna via a remote control switch, the tree shape rises from its base housing to instantly form a realistic Christmas tree shape. The walls of the fabric cone shape include apertures that hold standard Christmas lights and hooks for ornaments. |
| US07914167B2 |
Surface modifying apparatus having illumination system and method thereof
Disclosed are surface modifying apparatus, such as non-motorized and motorized sanding tools, with an illumination system providing an intensity and incidence angle on the working surface that facilitates visual inspection of defects and blemishes on the surface being modified in a safe, low cost, and convenient manner. |
| US07914166B2 |
Ice sculpture display platform with integrated water collection and self-powered illumination
An ice sculpture display platform is disclosed that includes integrated water collection and self-powered illumination, thereby enabling display of arbitrarily shaped ice sculptures without requiring a water collection tray or connection to a power outlet. A display surface with drainage holes is supported on or above a water collection bowl, preferably forming a water-tight seal therewith. Battery-powered lights, such as incandescent or LED lights, are attached to the display surface and/or the water collection bowl, and illuminate the ice sculpture from the rim of the bowl, the rim of the platform, and/or from beneath the platform. Lights that illuminate from beneath can be impervious to water and/or sealed within a water-tight enclosure. A portion of the display platform can be transparent, allowing penetration of light originating from below. Batteries can be in water-tight enclosures, and can be in the bowl, under the rim, or under the platform. |
| US07914162B1 |
LED light assembly having heating board
A light assembly including a housing, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) on a circuit board, a lens, a lens cover and a heating board positioned within the housing. The heating board is positioned behind the lens and in front of LEDs within the housing, such that light from the LEDs shines through the heating board. The heating board also includes a sensor and a microcontroller to activate, deactivate and control the heating board in response to an outside air temperature. |
| US07914157B2 |
Projector with a lens barrier module
An exemplary projector includes a main body, a lens at a front of the main body and a lens barrier module positioned at the front of the main body for covering the lens when the projector is not in use or exposing the lens when the projector is in use. The lens barrier module includes a front bezel defining an opening aligned with the lens, a lens frame secured to a rear side of the front bezel and separated from the front bezel, and a lens cover slidably received between the front bezel and the lens frame. The lens frame defines an aperture aligned with the opening. The lens cover is positioned in a manner to selectively cover or uncover the lens. |
| US07914154B2 |
Image projection device, image projection screen and image display system
An image projector according to the present invention includes a first light source that emits visible light and a second light source that emits invisible light and projects the visible light and the invisible light onto a screen. The screen includes a material, at least one of the visible light reflectance, transmittance and absorbance of which changes when irradiated with the invisible light projected. The image projector further includes a modulating section for modulating the intensities of the visible light and invisible light based on an image signal and a control section for controlling the modulating section. |
| US07914152B2 |
Portable projector using an LED and related heat dissipation system
A portable projector with a heat dissipation system, includes a housing and two LED light sources located in the housing. Each of the LED light sources includes a circuit aboard, an LED device mounted on the circuit aboard and a heat pipe. The heat pipe has an evaporating section thermally contacting the circuit board, and a condensing section. A fin set thermally contacts with the condensing section of the heat pipe for dissipating heat therefrom. The fin set of one LED light source is located behind the evaporating section of the heat pipe of the other light source and closely adjacent to a wall of the housing. |
| US07914151B2 |
Multi-function light modulators for optical systems
In one embodiment, a method includes transmitting one or more light beams by a first portion of a light modulator formed outwardly from a substrate. The one or more transmitted light beams are spatially integrated. A second portion of the light modulator is formed outwardly from the substrate. The second portion of the light modulator spatially integrates the transmitted light beams. |
| US07914147B2 |
Systems and methods for optical detection of lipofuscin concentrations in a subject's eye
A method for optical detection of lipofuscin concentrations in the retina is described. A subject's eye is exposed to a light source. Light emitted from the subject's eye is detected. Levels of lipofuscin are determined from the emitted light. A system for optical detection of lipofuscin in the retina is described. The system includes a light source to generate light. The system includes an optical detector in optical communication with the light source. The optical detector is configured to detect light emitted from a subject's eye. A computing device in electronic communication with the optical detector is included in the system to determine levels of lipofuscin from the emitted light. |
| US07914146B2 |
Ophthalmological photographic apparatus
An ophthalmological photographic apparatus includes an observation moving-image photographic unit configured to photograph an observation moving image of a subject's eye, a still-image photographic unit configured to photograph a still image of the subject's eye, an image display unit configured to display at least one of the observation moving image and the still image, and a display content control unit configured to cause the image display unit to display one of the observation moving image and the still image when the still-image photographic unit photographs a still image. |
| US07914145B2 |
Progressive power lens and manufacturing method therefor
A progressive power lens in which distortion aberration is restricted and a manufacturing method therefore are provided. In a progressive power lens in which a progressive refracting surface provided with a first region arranged at an upper part of the lens for viewing relatively far, a second region arranged lower than the first region and having a larger refracting power than that of the first region, and a progressive zone arranged between these regions, whose refracting power is progressively changing, is formed on an inner surface of the lens, when both the far-sighted diopter and the near-sighted diopter are negative, as an upper practical region is separated from a virtual horizontal line passing through the geometric center of the lens, the curvature of the curve of the outer surface of the lens is gradually increased, while as the lower practical region is separated from the horizontal line, the curvature of the curve of the outer surface of the lens is gradually decreased. |
| US07914138B2 |
Ink for ink-jet recording, ink cartridge, and ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink for ink-jet recording may contain a coloring agent and a marker. The coloring agent may contain a dye. The marker may contain at least one of a dye and a pigment, and has a detector absorption peak for detecting the marker at a wavelength that is different from a wavelength of the maximum absorption peak of the coloring agent. The coloring agent and the marker are contained in the ink in amounts that satisfy the following conditions (I) to (III): (I) about 1.2≦A2/ A3; (II) color difference (ΔE)≦about 3; and (III) about 0.001≦A2≦about 5 in terms of a measurement optical path length of 1 mm, where A2 denotes an absorbance at the wavelength of the detector absorption peak of the marker, A3 denotes a baseline absorbance at the wavelength of the detector absorption peak of the marker. |
| US07914135B2 |
Liquid cartridge and circuit board
A liquid cartridge mountable on a cartridge mounting portion of a liquid consuming apparatus, the liquid cartridge includes: a circuit board that is attached to an outer surface of the liquid cartridge in an insertion direction of the liquid cartridge into the cartridge mounting portion; and a connection terminal that is formed in the circuit board to be contactable with a connector provided in the cartridge mounting portion, wherein the circuit board has a positioning hole that is formed at a front end side in the insertion direction into the cartridge mounting portion, and an error absorption hole that is formed at a base end side in the insertion direction and has a larger opening area than that of the positioning hole, and the positioning hole is engaged with a positioning boss that is provided in the liquid cartridge, the error absorption hole is engaged with an error absorption boss that is provided in the liquid cartridge, and the circuit board is fixed to a container main body by thermally caulking the bosses. |
| US07914134B2 |
Ink cartridges and inkjet printers
An ink cartridge includes an ink chamber configured to store an ink, and a wall which includes a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The ink cartridge also includes an ink supply portion configured to supply the ink from an interior of the ink chamber to an exterior of the ink chamber, and the ink supply portion is positioned at the wall adjacent to the second end of the wall. Moreover, the ink cartridge includes a protrusion extending from the wall, and the protrusion is positioned between the ink supply portion and the second end of the wall. In embodiment, the protrusion has a plurality of grooves formed therein. In another embodiment, the protrusion has a plurality of openings formed therethrough or therein. |
| US07914133B2 |
Carrier for an ink distribution assembly of an ink jet printhead
A carrier for a page width ink jet printhead having a printhead integrated circuit including sets of ink inlet openings, each set having at least one inlet opening for receiving ink of a particular color. The carrier comprises: feed openings, each in fluid communication with a respective set of the inlet openings; an ink supply side defining a number of feed formations, each configured to receive one of the inks and to be in fluid communication with a respective set of inlet openings, via the feed openings; a printhead side engageable with the printhead and defining at least one ink supply formation; at least one passage in fluid communication between the at least one ink supply formation and at least one of the feed formations; and a pair of side wall portions defining a longitudinally extending channel including one of the feed openings. |
| US07914130B2 |
Droplet ejection device and printer
A droplet ejection device includes: a substrate having first, second, third & fourth pressure chambers extending in a first direction; a nozzle plate below the substrate & having first, second, third & fourth nozzle apertures continuous with first, second, third & forth pressure chambers, respectively; a vibration plate above the substrate; first, second, third & fourth piezoelectric elements above the vibration plate & above first, second, third & fourth pressure chambers. wherein, viewed in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, the first nozzle aperture positioned to overlap the third nozzle aperture & doesn't overlap the second & fourth nozzle apertures; the second nozzle aperture overlaps the fourth nozzle aperture & doesn't overlap the first & third nozzle apertures, viewed in the second direction; the first piezoelectric element positioned to overlap the third piezoelectric element & doesn't overlap the second & fourth piezoelectric elements, viewed in the second direction; & the second piezoelectric element overlaps the fourth piezoelectric element & doesn't overlap the first & third piezoelectric elements. |
| US07914127B2 |
Nozzle plate for an ink jet print head comprising stress relieving elements
The invention relates to an ink jet print head structure for printing devices, comprising a substrate in which one or more slots are realized and a nozzle plate connected to the substrate. The nozzle plate defines a first axis (X) and a second perpendicular axis (Y) and comprises a plurality of nozzles from which ink is ejected in fluid communication with the slots. The slots extends along the second axis (Y). A plurality of strip-like stress relief elements is realized on the nozzle plate, the plurality of stress relief elements is disposed so to extend along the Y axis, and each stress relief element of the plurality defines an aperture on a free surface of said nozzle plate. In addition, the total X projections of all apertures defined by the plurality of stress relief elements along the first (X) axis has a resulting length comprised between 10% and 55% of the overall width of the nozzle plate along the same first axis (X). |
| US07914126B2 |
Ink jet head manufacturing device, ink jet head manufacturing method, and ink jet device
In an ink jet head manufacturing device, first and second diodes are arranged on a path extending from a gate of a control unit to an individual electrode of an ink-pressure control part in an ink jet head, the first diode allowing a current from the individual electrode of the ink-pressure control part to flow into a first wiring, and the second diode allowing a current from a second wiring to flow into the individual electrode of the ink-pressure control part. A short-circuit unit is arranged to short-circuit the first wiring and the second wiring when depolarization or polarization of the ink-pressure control part is performed. |
| US07914122B2 |
Inkjet printhead nozzle arrangement with movement transfer mechanism
A nozzle arrangement for an inkjet printhead. The nozzle arrangement comprises a substrate incorporating drive circuitry and defining an ink inlet channel; side walls extending from the substrate; a roof fast with the side walls and defining an ink ejection port in fluid communication with an ink chamber defined by the roof, the side walls, and the substrate, the ink chamber being in fluid communication with the ink inlet channel; an ink ejection member interposed between the ink inlet channel and the ink ejection port such that reciprocal movement of the ink ejection member causes ejection of ink from the ink ejection port; an actuator connected to the drive circuitry at a fixed end and having a free end reciprocally displaceable with respect to the substrate on receipt of an electrical signal from the drive circuitry; and a motion transmitting structure interposed between the free end of the actuator and the ink ejection member. The motion transmitting structure has an effort formation, a lever arm formation, and a load formation interconnecting the effort formation and the lever arm formation. The effort formation is adapted to engage with the free end of the actuator arm, and the lever arm formation is adapted to engage with the ink ejection member. |
| US07914121B2 |
Liquid drop dispenser with movable deflector
A liquid dispenser includes a liquid supply channel, a liquid supply adapted to feed a stream of liquid through the supply channel, a liquid return channel adapted to receive liquid from the supply channel, a liquid dispensing outlet opening, and a diverter member forming at least a portion of a wall of the liquid supply channel, said diverter member being selectively movable to form a convex surface along which liquid remains attached, thereby to divert droplets from the supply channel through the dispensing outlet opening. The motion of the diverter member is substantially orthogonal to the direction of liquid flow, so that energy associated with moving the diverter member imparts no energy to the diverted droplets. The energy associated with moving the diverter member is less than 100 nJ per pL droplet volume. |
| US07914120B2 |
Modular printhead incorporating a capping device
A modular printhead includes an elongate spine defining longitudinal internal passages for carrying ink. The spine further defines sets of holes along its length with each set having holes in fluid communication with respective passages. A plurality of printhead modules serially engage along the spine with respective sets of holes. Each printhead module defines inlets aligned in fluid communication with respective holes and internal chambers in fluid communication with respective inlets. Each printhead module includes an ink ejection integrated circuit (IC) which is fed the ink from the internal chamber. A capping device is mounted relative to the spine and is configured to cover the IC's when not in use. |
| US07914114B2 |
Print assembly having high speed printhead
A print assembly is provided having an elongate carrier that is mountable on a support structure of a printer, printhead integrated circuits mounted on the carrier, and control circuitry positioned on the carrier and operatively connected to the printhead integrated circuits to control operation thereof. The printhead integrated circuits are provided in a number and configuration such that the printhead integrated circuits define an elongate printing zone of at least 914 mm. Each printhead integrated circuit incorporates nozzle arrangements each having a nozzle, an ink chamber, an ink inlet, an actuator, and a drive circuit to achieve the ejection of ink from the nozzle arrangement. the nozzle arrangements and control circuitry are configured so that the printhead integrated circuits are controlled by the control circuitry to print more than one billion drops of ink per second. |
| US07914112B2 |
Printing apparatus with switchover section that switches over patterns of velocity data
The invention relates to a printing apparatus that performs printing by scanning a carriage that has a print head in a main scan direction. The printing apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention includes: a carriage motor that drives the carriage; a control unit that controls the driving of the carriage motor; a memory unit that stores a plurality of patterns of velocity data regarding at least either one of scanning speeds of the carriage after start of the scanning and driving speeds of the carriage motor corresponding to the scanning speeds of the carriage; and a driving mode switchover unit that switches over the patterns of the velocity data, wherein the control unit controls the driving of the carriage motor in such a manner that the carriage is scanned on the basis of the velocity data selected by the driving mode switchover unit. |
| US07914111B2 |
Printer waste ink apparatus
Printer waste ink subsystem apparatuses are described including an apparatus located between a waste ink pump output port and a waste ink container such as a waste ink pad or sponge for containing waste ink splashing. In one illustrative example, a muffler is placed at the distal end of the waste ink pump discharge port. Such a muffler contains waste ink splatter caused by air bubbles in the waste ink stream as it exits the waste ink pump output port. |
| US07914108B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method, and ink set
The image forming apparatus comprises: a treatment liquid deposition device which deposits treatment liquid onto a recording medium, the treatment liquid containing a polymerization initiator and particles introducing electrorheological properties; an electric field application device which applies an electric field to the treatment liquid having been deposited on the recording medium; an ink ejection device which ejects ink toward the recording medium on which the treatment liquid has been deposited, the ink containing a coloring material and a radiation-curable polymerizable compound; and a radiation irradiation device which irradiates radiation to cure the ink having been deposited on the recording medium. |
| US07914102B2 |
Image forming apparatus and control method thereof
In multipass printing, a mask pattern which increases the degree of dot dispersion in each pass is used for a combination of inks for increasing glossiness when printing an image. Contrary, a mask pattern which decreases the degree of dot dispersion in each pass is used for a combination of inks for decreasing glossiness. Thus, an entire image can be made uniformly glossy by suppressing gloss unevenness within the image. |
| US07914101B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus with ink stirring by carriage reciprocation
The present invention provides an ink jet printing apparatus that can print appropriate images by efficiently stirring ink in an ink tank in accordance with its status to homogenize it. When the elapsed time from the end of reciprocation of the carriage is shorter than a specified time, a printing operation is performed after the end of the reciprocation. The number of times that the carriage is reciprocated so as to stir the ink after the printing operation is set in accordance with the number of scans of the carriage during the printing operation. |
| US07914100B2 |
Recording apparatus and transport amount correcting method
A recording apparatus including: a head for performing recording on a medium, a transport mechanism that includes a roller on an upstream side of the head and transports the medium in the transport direction according to a target transport amount that is targeted, a sensor that is provided at a more upstream side than the upstream-side roller in order to detect a lower end of the medium transported in the transport direction, and a controller that corrects the target transport amount by correction values matched with a relative position of the head and the medium. |
| US07914098B2 |
Device for patterning workpieces
The invention relates to a device (1) for patterning workpieces (2), which preferably consist at least partially of wood, wood materials or the like, having an ink-jet printing means (10) having a plurality of nozzles (12) from which drops of ink can be expelled, a workpiece carrier means (20) for carrying the workpiece (2) to be patterned, a conveyor device for bringing about a relative movement between the workpiece (2) to be patterned and the printing means (10). The device according to the invention is characterised in that it further has at least one image detection sensor (46). |
| US07914096B2 |
Image forming apparatus, landing position shift correction method, and landing position shift correction sheet member
A disclosed image forming apparatus includes a recording head configured to jet liquid droplets; a pattern forming unit configured to form, on a water-repellent surface of a water-repellent sheet member, an adjustment pattern used for correcting shifts in landing positions of the liquid droplets, wherein the adjustment pattern includes plural liquid droplets that are separated from each other, and the water-repellent surface having a water-repellent property is formed on at least a part of a surface of the water-repellent sheet member; a reading unit including a light emitting unit configured to irradiate light onto the adjustment pattern and a light receiving unit configured to receive specular reflection light from the adjustment pattern; and a landing position correction unit configured to correct, based on a reading result obtained by the reading unit, the shifts in the landing positions of the liquid droplets that are jetted from the recording head. |
| US07914095B2 |
Head element substrate, recording head, and recording apparatus
A head element substrate includes receiving means for receiving data in which recording data and drive pulse width data have been multiplexed, a shift register which separates recording data from the multiplexed data, and a drive pulse width signal generation circuit which generates a drive pulse width signal by separating the drive pulse width data from the multiplexed data. |
| US07914094B2 |
Refrigerator sealing loops
A storage compartment comprises a container defining an access aperture closable by a closure that can be sealed to the container around the aperture and that can be opened by relative movement between the container and the closure in a lateral direction with respect to the aperture, the container having a first sealing loop around the aperture and the closure having a second sealing loop co-operable by alignment with the first sealing loop to maintain a seal when the closure closes the aperture. The sealing loops are moved into and out of mutual alignment by said relative movement between the container and the closure and at least one of the sealing loops includes magnetic means for attracting the other of the sealing loops to maintain a seal when the sealing loops are mutually aligned. |
| US07914086B2 |
Track idler with replaceable wear pads
An idler for use with an endless track of a track-type vehicle comprises a wheel and a rim. The rim comprises fasteners and replaceable wear pads releasably mounted to and positioned about the periphery of the wheel using the fasteners. |
| US07914085B2 |
Brake control system and method for automotive vehicle
In brake control system and method for an automotive vehicle, a vehicle body deceleration increment correction quantity is set to zero during a start of braking, the vehicle body deceleration increment correction quantity is set to be gradually larger along with at least one of a decrease in the traveling velocity of the vehicle and an increase in a braking passage time in a first region in which a traveling velocity of the vehicle is equal to or higher than a first predetermined traveling velocity, and the vehicle body deceleration increment correction quantity is set to a substantially constant value in a second region in which the traveling velocity of the vehicle is lower than the first predetermined traveling velocity. |
| US07914084B2 |
Control component for hydraulic circuit including spring applied-hydraulically released brake
A control for use in a hydraulic circuit where the control can act as a valve and an auxiliary pressure source for the hydraulic circuit. |
| US07914083B2 |
On demand prop rod for utility vehicle cargo box
A prop rod for a utility vehicle cargo box has a first end pivotally connected to a frame member of the cargo box, and a second end slidable along a slot in a frame member of the utility vehicle. The slot has a downwardly directed notch at a rear portion thereof. The prop rod is biased to a disengaged position in which the second end or the prop rod cannot enter the notch. The prop rod is sufficiently flexible so that an operator can overcome the bias and move the prop rod to an engaged position in which the second end can enter the notch to hold up the cargo box in a raised position. |
| US07914082B2 |
Apparatus for a vehicle for dumping and providing ground access
An apparatus generally includes a dump frame pivotably coupled to a vehicle's chassis, and a slide frame slidably coupled to the dump frame. The apparatus further includes at least one slide frame actuator for causing sliding movement of the slide frame, and at least one dump frame actuator for causing pivotal movement of the dump frame. |
| US07914081B1 |
Contoured sling wheelchair seat
A seating system for wheelchairs and other applications. The seating system incorporates contours in the substantially flexible seat sling to improve the pressure distribution of the seated user. |
| US07914078B2 |
Adjustable lower seat for use with a stand and lean type backrest
A seat for use with a vehicle providing multiple positions for a member including a substantially horizontal position and a substantially vertical position. The adjustor is designed to adjust and/or support the member in multiple positions. The member is configured to maximize seat area within seating limitations. The seat is also designed to provide support for the operator when the operator uses the control lever on the rear of the seat. |
| US07914076B2 |
Device with a limit switch and trunnion
Dental devices with cylinders, trunnions, and limit switches, and a method are provided. The dental devices include a cylinder and a trunnion having a cavity and an outer surface. A portion of the cylinder is slidably mounted within the cavity of the trunnion, and a portion of the cylinder protrudes out of the trunnion. The limit switch is coupled to the outer surface of the trunnion, with the limit switch is operable to contact the cylinder. Separation of the limit switch and the cylinder causes actuation of the limit switch, and the actuation of the limit switch inhibits a downward movement of the device. Alternatively, the limit switch may be coupled to the portion of the cylinder that protrudes out of the trunnion, with the limit switch operable to contact the trunnion. As such, separation of the limit switch and the trunnion causes actuation of the limit switch. |
| US07914072B2 |
Moon roof frame module for reinforcement of automotive roof
A moon roof frame module is sized to span between the laterally spaced roof side rails of an automotive roof frame structure and is welded to the opposing roof side rails to be integrated into the roof frame structure. As a result, the moon roof assembly serves as a load path member to reinforce the automotive roof structure. The integrated moon roof frame module will receive roll over forces and increase the strength of the roof structure of an automotive vehicle. The moon roof frame module includes a U-shaped roof panel that is welded to the opposing roof side rails and provides a reinforcing cross member located forwardly of the moon roof opening. A second cross member positioned rearwardly of the moon roof opening increases rigidity of the reinforcing moon roof frame module. |
| US07914071B2 |
Front structure of vehicle body
A front structure of a vehicle body is disclosed as having a radiator core support including an upper member and a lower member vertically spaced from each other and extending in a vehicle width direction. The upper member is structured in two stages on upper and lower sides composed of an upper-stage upper member and a lower-stage upper member, which have both left and right ends connected to vehicle body components placed in a vehicle body on both sides thereof. |
| US07914067B2 |
Excavator mounted with tanks having side doors
An excavator mounted with tanks having side doors. Bend-formed side doors are mounted on outer sides of a hydraulic fluid tank and a fuel tank that are welded structures mounted on an upper frame of the excavator, have the same curved surfaces as an external shape of the equipment, so that no precise tank manufacturing work is required and welded portions of the tanks are prevented from being exposed to an outside. |
| US07914060B2 |
Vehicle cargo area extender and step
The vehicle cargo extender allows a user to effectively extend the bed of a vehicle to accommodate and support cargo having dimensions extending beyond an unmodified bed. The extender has a deck assembly and an arm assembly. The deck, which may be folded for easier storage, forms a floor on which cargo may rest. The arm assembly comprises an extension tube, a storage receiver tube, a crosspiece receiver tube, and a crosspiece assembly. The extension tube, when in use, is inserted into and secured within a receiver hitch. The deck is coupled with the arm assembly. The user may also attach a shelf assembly to the arm assembly to carry additional cargo. When in the stowed position, the crosspiece is coupled to the crosspiece receiver tube and may have reflectors or auxiliary taillights. The storage receiver tube and crosspiece may be nested and secured together within a receiver hitch. When in the stowed position, the arm assembly forms a step to allow the user easy access to the pickup truck bed. |
| US07914057B2 |
Vacuum anchor
In one aspect of the invention, a vacuum anchor assembly for anchoring a fall protection system to a surface of an anchorage structure comprises an anchor member having an air input connector, a venturi, and a seal member incorporated into the anchor member. The air input connector is configured and arranged to receive air from a pressurized air source. The venturi is in fluid communication with the air input connector and is configured and arranged to receive air and create a vacuum therefrom. The seal member is in fluid communication with the venturi and is configured and arranged to receive the vacuum and resulting suction and create a seal between the anchor member and the surface of the anchorage structure sufficient to operatively connect the anchor member to the surface of the anchorage structure with the vacuum and resulting suction created within the anchor member. |
| US07914056B1 |
Removing utensil for solid waste deposited by a small animal
A removing utensil for solid waste deposited by a small animal comprised of a support; a plurality of elongated members that extend from the support that form a removing surface; a pair of elongated members having distal sections that obliquely face away from positioned superior to the removing surface whereby solid waste is funneled unto the removing surface; a handle assembly comprised of a handle member and a projector of a beam of light and a bracket that extends from the support having first leg in the plane of the removing surface and second leg that connects to the handle assembly which is shaped so that a projected beam of light illuminates the removing surface and an area forward. |
| US07914055B2 |
Display apparatus having mechanism for opening and closing display panel
A display apparatus composed of a main body and a display panel hinged to the main body is conveniently mounted on a ceiling of an automobile. The display panel is opened to a desired position to display information to a rear seat passenger, while it is closed and stays at a rest position when it is not used. Before the display panel is driven to the desired position, it is unlocked by bringing a holding device to a releasing state, and it is locked at the desired position by bringing the holding device to a holding state. At the holding state, a rotatable member connected to the display panel is gripped by the holding device, and the gripping force imposed on the rotatable member is removed at the releasing state. In this manner, the display panel is surely locked at an arbitrary position and is freely driven with a small driving force. |
| US07914050B2 |
Adaptor and method for converting standard tube fitting/port to push-to-connect tube fitting/port
An adaptor (45) for converting to a push-to-connect tube fitting/port a standard tube fitting/port body (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610) having a threaded portion (11) for threaded attachment of a nut/plug (12), comprises a coupling nut/plug (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612) having an axially inner threaded end portion for threaded attachment to the threaded portion (11) of the fitting/port body (10); a tube sealing member (15, 115, 215, 315, 415, 515, 615) contained within the nut/plug (12) for sealing to a tube (19) having a locking surface (22) spaced from the end of the tube (19); and a retention device (23) retained in the nut/plug (12), which nut/plug (12) has at an axially outer end thereof a central opening through which the tube (19) can be inserted into the coupling nut/plug (12), whereby the locking surface (22) can be engaged by the retention device (23) to prevent axial withdrawal of the tube (19) from the coupling nut/plug (12) once inserted; wherein sealing and retention of the tube (19) is effected within the confines of the coupling nut/plug (12) and separate from and without requiring modification of the standard tube fitting/port body (10). |
| US07914048B2 |
Liquid-tight coupling device with screw-on ferrule device and method of use
A coupling device that provides a liquid tight seal at the connection with a conduit with easy installation. The device comprises a tubular connector body, a compression nut, a first sealing ring, a second sealing ring, a ferrule, and a lock nut. The coupling device may be installed fully assembled and does not require disassembly of the packaged product before installation. In the connector body a radial ledge is formed within the tubular spaces between the first and second ends. The radial ledge of the connector body has at least one depression. The ferrule has a tubular body with a radial flange extending from a first end portion. At least one protrusion extends from the radial flange that corresponds to the depression on the tubular body. When the depression of the tubular body engages the protrusion of the ferrule, it restricts the ferrule from relative rotation. This restriction allows that the coupling device be installed fully assembled. |
| US07914046B2 |
Vehicle mud flap with wheel liner attachment tab
A mud flap is provided with an integrally molded upstanding tab which captures a free edge of a wheel liner or similar wheel well-forming vehicle body element. The upstanding tab may be combined with OEM screw holes or clamping members to affix the mud flap to the vehicle wheel well. |
| US07914044B2 |
Collision energy absorbable steering column for vehicle
Disclosed is a vehicular collision energy absorbable steering column coupled to a steering shaft. The steering column comprises shaped wires deformable to absorb a collision load in a vehicle collision, a cylindrical hollow outer tube, a cylindrical hollow inner tube having on its interior circumferential surface mounting grooves to secure the wires, and a distance bracket that is formed of a hollow tubular member having an outer tube joint at one end and an inner tube joint at the opposite end and has a pair of fastening flanges shaped into two spaced opposing plates formed on the outer circumferential surfaces of the tubular member for receiving the wires so that the distance bracket may collapse in the axial direction in the event of a vehicle collision through deforming the wires. |
| US07914038B2 |
Airbag system
An airbag system includes an airbag, and the airbag includes an airbag body having a passenger-side wall portion that is arranged at a passenger side when having completed deploying and inflating, and a slip cloth that is disposed at an outer surface side of the passenger-side wall portion. The slip cloth formed in a loop shape an axial direction of which is in a left and right direction includes: a front panel portion arranged at a passenger side; an upper back panel portion extending downward from an upper end of the front panel portion; and a lower back panel portion extending upward from a lower end of the front panel portion, and a lower end of the upper back panel portion and an upper end of the lower back panel portion are mutually approximated, and joined to the passenger-side wall portion. |
| US07914030B2 |
Convertible stroller-cycle
A braking and steering assembly in a vehicle having a pushing section and a riding section. The assembly includes an upper connection post containing braking and steering components for the riding section. The upper connection post has an upper end and a lower threaded end. The assembly further includes a lower connection post containing braking and steering components for the pushing section. The lower connection post has an aperture for threadedly receiving the lower threaded end of the upper connection post. The assembly also includes a rotatable front knob fixed to the upper end of the upper connection post. Rotatably tightening the front knob connects the lower end of the upper connection post with the upper end of the lower connection post. Braking and steering in the riding section controls braking and steering in the pushing section. |
| US07914029B2 |
Continuously variable transmission
Traction planets and traction rings can be operationally coupled to a planetary gearset to provide a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be used in a bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on the frame of the bicycle at a location forward of the rear wheel hub of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on and supported by members of the bicycle frame such that the CVT is coaxial with the crankshaft of the bicycle. The crankshaft is configured to drive elements of the planetary gearset, which are configured to operationally drive the traction rings and the traction planets. Inventive component and subassemblies for such a CVT are disclosed. A shifting mechanism includes a plurality of pivot arms arranged to pivot about the centers of the traction planets as a shift pin hub moves axially. |
| US07914028B2 |
Occupant propelled vehicle
An occupant propelled vehicle is provided that includes a frame having a front portion and a rear portion, front and rear wheels, a platform for the occupant, an integrated articulating steering mechanism and a drive mechanism. The steering mechanism provides the multiple function of power transmission to a drive train, maneuvering the vehicle through a 360° turning radius and reversing the direction of the vehicle, so that it can travel both forward and backward. In one embodiment, the driving mechanism includes a power transfer means having a first end connected to a drive sprocket through a chain and a second end connected to another drive sprocket through the chain both sprockets mounted on a front wheel for propulsion. The steering means transfers power through the chains that in turn rotate the sprockets and associated wheel propelling the vehicle. |
| US07914023B2 |
Parallelogram-style steering mechanism having a relay rod bushing
A steering mechanism includes a relay rod and an idler arm operatively attached to a first end thereof. A pitman arm includes a stud and is operatively attached to a second end of the relay rod. A bushing is configured to allow displacement of the pitman arm relative to the relay rod. The bushing includes an outer can, an inner metal member, and a bushing disposed therebetween. The inner metal member has a tapered receptacle configured to mate with a tapered portion of the stud. The resilient member may include voids, which may be oriented generally perpendicular to a turning direction and may be tapered from the base to the opening. The inner metal member may have a generally-cylindrical portion and substantially-opposing outer flats interrupting the same. The outer flats are spaced by a distance smaller than the cylinder diameter and may be substantially parallel to the turning direction. |
| US07914020B2 |
Vehicle suspension system with a variable camber system
A suspension system for a vehicle provides a camber adjusting system that during a turn, lowers and draws inward the upper A-arm, or draws inward a strut head, which supports the outer front wheel, thereby providing more negative camber to that wheel in dynamic optimal proportion to the degree of the turn. The suspension system can be configured to remain at zero camber on the inner front wheel during the turn or can be configured to raise and move outward the upper A-arm, or move outward a strut head, which supports the inner front wheel, thereby providing more positive camber to that wheel in dynamic optimal proportion to the degree of turn. |
| US07914016B2 |
Hand truck for transporting a plurality of objects
A hand truck for transporting a plurality of objects is provided. The hand truck comprises a first frame portion and a second frame portion, each of which comprises: a first rail and a second rail, structurally joined proximal a handle end of each the rail; and a plurality of object supporting bars extending from the first rail to the second rail, each of the plurality of object supporting bars structurally supported by the first rail and the second rail, and separated from an adjacent object supporting bar by a distance approximate a stacking dimension of one of the plurality of objects. The second frame portion is laterally spaced from the first frame portion by an object supporting distance, such that the plurality of object supporting bars of the first frame portion and the plurality of object supporting bars of the second frame portion form a plurality of pairs of object supporting bars, each of the plurality of pairs of object supporting bars being substantially parallel and enabled to support at least one of the plurality of objects when the hand truck is in an upright position. The hand truck further comprises a handle portion proximal to, and structurally joining, a handle end of the first frame portion and a handle end of the second frame portion. The hand truck further comprises a wheel assembly joining the distal ends of each of the first rails of each of the first frame portion and the second frame portion. |
| US07914015B2 |
Wheeled shopping tote
A shopping tote including a vertical support structure having one or more hooks for suspending bags therefrom enables carrying of shopping bags and/or boxes in an easy and convenient manner. A platform may be provided for placing of boxed items. The tote may be quickly changed between a compact storage condition and an in-use condition. When in the storage condition, the tote is of a size allowing carrying thereof alone or in a backpack, briefcase or purse, for example. |
| US07914013B2 |
Snowboard for rails
A snowboard for use on rails and installations found in snowboard parks is disclosed. The snowboard has a combination of features specially adapted for rails, and other known per se features from boards with three running surfaces, selected and employed on snowboards so as to achieve greater stability on rails, with a substantially reduced risk of catching the steel edge in irregularities, while retaining many of the good running characteristics of boards with 3 running surfaces. Some of the features of the snowboard are that more than 70% of the snowboard's base is composed of a flat central portion, and that there are secondary running surfaces from the steel edges and inwards, either along the entire length of the board or at any rate in the front and rear portions of the snowboard. |
| US07914009B1 |
Universal pool skimmer gasket
The present invention is universal gasket for a pool skimmer opening, which comprises an essentially rectangular planar sheet of material with a horizontal top member and a horizontal bottom member; a first and second vertical member connected to the horizontal top member and the horizontal bottom member defining a rectangular first end opening; a third vertical member connected to the horizontal top member and the horizontal bottom member defining a middle opening in conjunction with the second vertical member; a fourth vertical member connected to the horizontal top member and the horizontal bottom member defining second end opening in conjunction with the third vertical member; and wherein the vertical and horizontal members are individually, selectively detachable from the planar sheet to alter the shape of the planar sheet and cause the remaining portion of the planar sheet to form a standard sized gasket for a pool skimmer opening. |
| US07914008B2 |
Metal gasket and mis-assembly detection method of metal gasket
A metal gasket includes at least three metal plates including first, second and third metal plates laminated in this order from a top to form the metal gasket. Identification marks are provided on at least second and third metal plates in a position not to overlap with one another, and penetration windows are formed in at least the first and second metal plates. The penetration windows are arranged to see the identification mark therethrough located lower than the metal plate where the penetration window is formed. |
| US07914003B2 |
Gaming devices and methods of playing card games with indicator of cards played from previous hands
Gaming devices and methods of playing games wherein an indication of the cards which have already been discarded or dealt is displayed for a player to view prior to making a decision. One embodiment is directed to a gaming device comprising a video display which is designed for the play of Blackjack. Other embodiments are directed to table versions of the present invention wherein physical playing cards are actually dealt to one or more players. At the conclusion of each hand, an indication of the cards dealt is displayed for viewing by all of the players. |
| US07914000B2 |
Feedback-based document handling control system
A method and system for performing sheet registration are disclosed. Output values for a sheet may be identified within a reference frame. A difference between each output value and a corresponding desired output value may be determined. Input values may be determined based on at least the differences. State feedback values may be determined based on information received from one or more sensors. Jerk values may be determined for multiple drive rolls based on the input values and the state feedback values. A desired angular velocity for each drive roll may be determined based on the corresponding jerk value. A motor voltage may be determined for each drive roll that tracks an observed angular velocity value to the desired angular velocity value. The jerk values may create a linear differential relationship between the input values and the output values. The steps may be performed multiple times. |
| US07913999B2 |
Resilient belt sheet compiler with mixed sheet length mode
A system, method, and resulting resilient belt type sheet compiler with a mixed sheet length mode is provided. The device includes a resilient belt transport for sequentially feeding sheets from a sheet inlet to a compiler tray, the compiler tray having a lead edge stop and a trail edge wall. A monitoring means is positioned proximate to the trail edge wall for detecting a lead end and a trail end of sequentially fed sheets from the sheet inlet to the compiler tray. A sheet brake, responsive to the monitoring means detecting a short sheet, selectively stalls the detected short sheet until a lead end of a subsequent sheet is detected by the sensor or subsequent sheets are absent. |
| US07913996B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
The detachment of a feed roller rotatably supported by a holding portion provided in the main body of an apparatus, and held detachably in the axial direction thereof is restricted by a locking device. The locking device is made movable to a lock position and a lock releasing position for permitting the detachment of the feed roller. Further, when the locking device is in the lock releasing position when a sheet stacking portion is mounted, the locking device is moved to the lock position by a position changeover device in operative association with the mounting operation of the sheet stacking portion. |
| US07913993B2 |
Sheet feeding device, sheet feeding unit and image forming apparatus connected with the sheet feeding unit with a controlled floating air blowing mechanism
A sheet feeding device may include a sucking and conveying mechanism having a suction surface, which sucks sheets stacked on a sheet stacking table, from an upper surface of the sheets, sucks an uppermost sheet to be sucked on the suction surface, and conveys the uppermost sheet onto a sheet conveyance path; a floating air blowing mechanism which blows floating air against the sheets from a side surface of the stacked sheets; a sheet position detecting sensor which detects an upper surface height position of the sheets stacked, and detects a floating state of the sheets floated; and a controller which judges the floating state of the sheets detected in a floating state detecting period in connection with a blowing of the floating air, and controls an air volume of floating air blown from the floating air blowing mechanism based on the floating state of the sheets. |
| US07913986B2 |
Automatic truss jig setting system
A automatic truss jig setting system is disclosed that includes a table including a plurality of segments with a side edge of adjacent segments defining a slot. At least one pin assembly, and optionally a pair of pin assemblies, is movable independently of each other along the slot. Movement apparatus is provided for independently moving the pin assemblies along the slot. Each of the side edges of the segments associated with the slot defines a substantially vertical plane with a zone being defined between the substantially vertical planes of the side edges, and the movement apparatus is located substantially outside of the zone of the slot. The invention may optionally include a system for handling the obstruction of pin assembly movement, and a system for keeping track of the position of the pin assembly when the pin assembly has encountered an obstruction. |
| US07913984B2 |
Method and system for generating microbubble-contained liquid and microbubble generator to be assembled in the system
A microbubble generator (20) includes an outer cylinder (201), bulkhead (202) and an inner cylinder (203) extending in the downstream direction from the bulkhead (202). A plurality of liquid passage holes (202a) is formed in the central portion of the bulkhead (202), and a circumferential flange (203a) is formed at the downstream end of the inner cylinder (203). A disk (204) is disposed adjacent to the rear edge of the inner cylinder (203). The disk (204) and circumferential flange (203a) define a restriction passage (17) in conjunction with each other. The circumferential flange (203a) forming one of the wall surfaces of the restriction passage (17) has a recess (206) formed therein. |
| US07913980B1 |
Adjustable, collapsible and portable game hoist
A portable game hoist (10) designed for raising and lowering game feeders and fallen game animals in the field. The invention consist of a compact and collapsible triangular support frame which contains a plurality of pulleys in a block and tackle arrangement. The block and tackle can be actuated by a hoist rope (92) to raise and lower game feeders/game animals providing a 6:1 lift to pull ratio. One pulley in the block and tackle arrangement is limited to rotation in a single direction and is positioned to automatically lock as objects are being hoisted. Locking pulley (50) can be unlocked by activating the locking pulley release (49) via the locking pulley release line (51) to allow pulley rotation in either direction. Therefore, unlocking the locking pulley (50) allows all six pulleys to rotate in either direction permitting the lowering of hoisted objects. The triangular support frame includes means for attachment to a tree or pole including a method for hanging temporarily to aid with final attachment. |
| US07913974B2 |
Hydraulic coupling with smooth bore poppet valve
Male and/or female members of a hydraulic coupling have an internal poppet valve that is held in the closed position by a flat wire, helical compression spring. The spring is configured such that when the poppet valve is moved to its fully open position, the coils of the spring are completely compressed thereby forming a substantially smooth bore tube for the flow of hydraulic fluid. The flat wire, helical compression spring may also act as a valve stop, limiting movement of the poppet valve and providing the necessary resistance to move the valve actuator of a corresponding valve in a mating member. |
| US07913973B1 |
Reverse flow fueldraulic valve
A reverse flow valve for metering high pressure gaseous media, such as ignition media to the injectors of a scramjet engine in a hyerpsonic flight vehicle, has a metering member that moves parallel to the flow direction of the metered media and throttles the valve in a direction counter to the flow direction. This reduces side loading on the metering member and permits the use of a lighter and smaller actuating mechanism. The metering member can be a pintle having a uniquely configured pintle seat providing bubble tight shut off of the inlet flow without effecting the critical flow contour of the media. The pintle can be driven by a piston that is responsive to push-pull forces of pressurized drive fluid under servo control. The drive fluid is isolated from the gaseous media by a primary seal, which can be seated on the piston without deformation by a seal retainer. The drive fluid can be fuel diverted from the sustained combustion fuel system of the vehicle so that a separate hydraulic system is not required. |
| US07913965B2 |
Clamp assembly
A clamp assembly is disclosed for a tonneau cover for a vehicle wherein the clamp assembly includes a plurality of spacers disposed therein to facilitate installation thereof on a variety of vehicle types and styles. |
| US07913960B1 |
Bracketing system
An improved bracketing system comprising a first portion that is adjustably connected to a second portion. The first portion may pivot, rotate, or otherwise be adjusted relative to the second portion to accommodate perpendicular and angled installations. An exemplary embodiment of the bracketing system may include angled holes to receive fasteners, which may promote ease of installation. An exemplary embodiment of the bracketing system may also provide additional strength when installed. |
| US07913959B2 |
Medical/dental suction nozzle holster having a universally adjustable strap
A suction nozzle holster is provided with a latch mechanism for receiving a universally adjustable strap having a groove system whose individual grooves can engage with a pawl of a lever arm of said latch mechanism. A forward surface of the holster may be provided with a hole into which a suction hose can be forced in order to constrict said hose and, hence, curtail the vacuum conditions in a suction nozzle serviced by that hose. |
| US07913958B2 |
Twist clip for attaching a fin to a conduit of a hydronic heating system
A twist clip for attaching a heat-radiating fin to a conduit of a hydronic heating system includes an upper gripping member, a lower gripping member connected to the upper member by an upright support member, and a handle portion looping downwardly from the lower gripping member to enable a user to hold the clip and to manually twist the clip to cause the upper and lower gripping members to rotate relative to the fin and conduit such that the fin and conduit are clipped together. This twist clip enables quick and easy attachment of fins to conduits, which greatly reduces the time and effort required to install a hydronic heating system. |
| US07913956B2 |
Mechanism for operating switch points
The subject of the present invention is a mechanism for operating sets of switch points, comprising an actuator control assembly (1) actuating two points operating half-bars (2), each connected to one point blade (switch rail), by a point-setting device (3) and by a manual control (4) connected in the actuator control assembly (1). The mechanism is one wherein actuation of the two points-operating half bars (2) by the actuator control assembly (1) is performed by way of rotary cam-drive devices (5), each one assigned to one operating half-bar (2) and wherein the points-setting device (3) is a device independent of the points-operating half-bar (2) and controlled by the actuator control assembly (1). The invention applies more particularly to the field of railway (railroad) infrastructure, particularly the operating of switch points. |
| US07913955B2 |
Aircraft control surface drive system and associated methods
A control surface drive system having a plurality of actuator assemblies are coupled to first and second supply lines and to a return line. The first and second supply lines are connected to a source of hydraulic fluid. At least one of the actuator assemblies has a hydraulic actuator movably connectable to an aircraft control surface. A flow control assembly is connected to the return line and to at least one of the first and second supply lines. A bypass line is in fluid communication with the first and second supply lines and positioned to recycle the hydraulic fluid from one of the first and second supply lines back into the other one of the first and second supply lines when the hydraulic actuator moves toward the first position. A computer controller operatively interconnects the plurality of actuator assemblies and the flow control assembly. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims (37 C.F.R. §1.72(b)). |
| US07913949B2 |
Symmetric leading edge device and method to delay flow separation
A vertical tail for use with an aircraft or other form of mobile platform. The vertical tail includes a main element which is fixedly secured to the mobile platform, and a leading edge element that is movably secured to the main element. The cross section of the leading edge element is symmetric about the cruise chord line of the tail. The leading edge element can be pivoted and/or extended to create a gap with the main (fixed) element. The movable leading edge element is used to increase the maximum yawing moment provided by the vertical tail. The maximum yawing moment is increased when air flow is incident from either side of the vertical tail. |
| US07913948B2 |
Method and apparatus for stratospheric and space structures
The high-altitude balloon has a skin made of nearly evacuated electrostatically inflated cells which provide thermal insulation to minimize heat loss from the gas in the balloon, while transmitting heat from the sun to heat the gas. The lower surface of the balloon is reflective to microwave or laser beams. A stable array of the balloons is maintained at a high altitude and is used to facilitate communications in a world-wide communications system. Ascent of the balloon is well controlled and weight is minimized by starting with lighter-than-air gases in liquid form, releasing a lifting gas into the craft, and then using the empty containers to store the remaining gas when the balloon is aloft. |
| US07913946B2 |
Insert body, reel, and recording tape cartridge
A reinforcement ring is insert-molded as an insert body on a reel hub of a reel around which recording tape is wound. The reinforcement ring includes a metal ring at least whose inner peripheral surface is covered by a resin layer. The clearance between the reinforcement ring and a mold during reel molding can be reduced, and the amount of eccentricity of the insert body with respect to the reel hub can be reduced. |
| US07913944B1 |
Cable brake for sea deployments of light cable
A cable brake system for deployments of cable comprising: a frame configured to be mounted on a ship; a repeater supporting track mounted longitudinally to the frame, the supporting track being configured for slidingly supporting a plurality of repeaters; a spool positioned exterior to the frame, the spool having the cable wrapped therearound and being capable of supplying the cable to an interior of the frame; at least one planar surface on an interior of the frame, the planar surface being positioned approximately parallel to the repeater supporting track; and a plurality of brake sub-assemblies being supported by the planar surface in a manner so as to establish a serpentine path for the cable and to impart variable frictional resistance to the cable. |
| US07913941B2 |
Crusher block assembly for particulate size reduction system
The invention provides a crusher block assembly for a particulate size reduction system including a crusher block having an inboard face configured and adapted to cooperate with a swing hammer in a crusher chamber of a particulate size reduction system to crush particulate, and an outboard face for receiving an adjustment mechanism. The crusher block assembly also includes an adjustment mechanism joined to the outboard face on the crusher block. The adjustment mechanism is configured and adapted to adjust the position of the crusher block along a direction between an inboard location and an outboard location within the crusher chamber. The invention also provides a method of adjusting clearance between a swing hammer and a crusher block in a particulate size reduction system. |
| US07913938B2 |
Electrostatic spray nozzle with adjustable fluid tip and interchangeable components
An electrostatic spray charging nozzle designed for optimum charge level over a wide range of liquid and air flow rates. The electrostatic spray charging nozzle includes a nozzle cap having an outlet, a nozzle body having a first bore, and a fluid tip assembly extending at least partially through the first bore. The fluid tip assembly further includes a liquid inlet adapted to be connected to a source of liquid, and a liquid outlet adapted to dispense the liquid through the outlet of the nozzle body. The electrostatic spray charging nozzle further includes an adjustment mechanism operable to move the fluid tip assembly within the first bore so as to adjust a longitudinal distance between the liquid outlet of the fluid tip assembly and the outlet of the nozzle cap. |
| US07913934B2 |
Shower head with air introduction
A shower head with a housing and a jet outlet surface can be achieved with an example embodiment of the invention. An adjuster device is provided on one side, for adjusting the supply of water to individual or all regions, into which the jet outlet surface is divided. The above can be a central small region and the region surrounding the above. Furthermore, an air supply device is provided for aerating the water jets. The air supply device is simultaneously operated with the switching between the regions. |
| US07913932B2 |
Sprinkler having a multifunctional protective hood
A sprinkler includes a receiving barrel, a boosting unit, a spraying unit and a protective hood. The protective hood has a side provided with a plug which has an end face provided with a mounting post. The mounting post has an inner portion provided with a mounting recess and an end portion provided with a spraying hole. The end face of the plug has a periphery provided with a plurality of filtering holes. The plug of the protective hood is inserted into the mouth of the receiving barrel when the protective hood is mounted on the mouth of the receiving barrel. The mounting post of the protective hood is mounted on the nozzle head of the spraying unit when the protective hood is mounted on the nozzle head of the spraying unit. |
| US07913931B2 |
Combination dump and spreader apparatus
A vehicle is disclosed which includes a chassis and a combination body for selectively dumping and spreading materials. A hoist is provided which extends between the body and the chassis for pivoting the body. A conveyor assembly for selectively conveying materials from the body is also included. A tailgate is pivotally connected to the body and has an opening therein to permit material to be transported therethrough. A rear feed gate assembly for selectively covering the opening of the tailgate is provided. The vehicle includes a rear diverter chute that is operably arranged with the conveyor assembly to direct the materials to a rear spreader. A front feed gate assembly for selectively covering an opening of a front end of the body is provided. First and second side chutes are operably arranged with the conveyor assembly to direct materials to a side spreader and a surface, respectively. |
| US07913928B2 |
Adaptive structures, systems incorporating same and related methods
Adaptive structures, systems incorporating such adaptive structures and related methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an adaptive structure is provided that includes a first structure and at least one microstructure associated with the first structure. The at least one microstructure may include a microscale beam configured to be displaced relative to the first structure upon the adaptive structure being exposed to a specified temperature. The beam may be formed for example, of a metallic material, of multiple different metallic materials, or of a shape memory alloy. In one embodiment, a plurality of the adaptive structures may be associated with micropores of a skin panel. The adaptive structures may be utilized to control the flow rate of a coolant or other fluid through the micropores responsive to a sensed environmental parameter such as, for example, temperature. |
| US07913927B2 |
Fuel economizer
An electronic circuit for a hot water heating system conserves fuel consumption and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. A heating system includes a burner that heats water and a room thermostat. The electronic circuit comprises an override thermostat which has a setting for a lower temperature limit and an upper temperature limit below those of the room thermostat. The override thermostat is operable to activate continuous operation of the burner when the indoor temperature falls below the lower temperature limit of the override thermostat and until the upper temperature limit of the override thermostat is reached. The electronic circuit further comprises a timer operable to deactivate and reactivate the burner while the room thermostat is calling for heat. |
| US07913925B2 |
Color changing thermostatic controller
An apparatus and method are provided for visually displaying the present room temperature of a space, through the use of a thermostatic controller adapted for receiving a temperature input indicative of a temperature in a space, and having a housing that includes an illuminated portion thereof emitting a light having a characteristic of the light that changes as a function of the temperature in the space. In various forms of the invention characteristics of the light, such as the color or the intensity of the light, are changed as a function of the temperature in the space, to provide a visual indication indicative of the present room temperature of the space. The characteristic of the light may be changed as a function of the present room temperature, or as the difference between the present room temperature and a desired room temperature, or for other purposes. |
| US07913905B2 |
Advanced voting system and method
An advanced voting system is provided that includes one or more computing devices. The computing devices receive input of authentication data and utilize the authentication data to determine whether a voting session by a voter is authorized and to unlock ballot information specific to the voter or a group of voters. In addition, the computing devices present ballot questions to the voter if the voting session is authorized based on the received authentication data and receive interactive voter selections from the voter. Furthermore, the system includes a ballot generator that generates tangible ballots containing the voter selections. |
| US07913901B2 |
Spend diagnostics and lead management
A method and system are used to optimize utilization of a transaction card by a card member. The system and method including generating a first data set based on data stored in a database representing industries of the card members. Generating a second data set representing an average amount charged to a transaction account by the card members in each respective one of the industries based on the first data set. Comparing the average amount charged from the first generating step to an actual amount charged by each individual one of the card members in a respective one of the industries. Communicating a result of the comparison to the card members. Receiving data from the card members based on their receiving of the comparison result. Storing the data in the database or a lead management device, such that the data is updated. |
| US07913898B2 |
Collecting container, in particular for collecting packages
There is provided a collecting container. An exemplary collecting container comprises an insertion opening on the front of the collecting container that is adapted to receive objects. The exemplary collecting container additionally comprises a receiving device arranged to receive the objects and to convey them to a storage space in the collecting container, the storage space containing a filling-level measuring means that is connected to a blocking device preventing the receiving device from being opened when a defined filling level has been reached in the storage space, the receiving device comprising a roller shutter box whose receiving area is formed by at least two side walls and a bottom. The exemplary collecting container further comprises a roller shutter that is adapted to be moved in rails on the side walls, the blocking device being configured so that it can block the movement of the roller shutter. |
| US07913893B2 |
Surgical stapler
A surgical device is described herein that can be used to fire different types and sizes of disposable loading units. In a preferred embodiment, the device applies parallel rows of surgical fasteners to body tissue and concomitantly forms an incision between the rows of staples during an endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical procedure. The device can be utilized with disposable loading units configured to apply linear rows of staples measuring from about 15mm in length to about 60mm in length and can be used to fire disposable loading units containing surgical clips and individual staples. |
| US07913892B2 |
Endoscopic stapling devices and methods
Described herein are endoscopic staplers used to apply one or more fasteners to body tissue. In one embodiment, a fastener-applying device, which is preferably a stapler, is passed transorally into the stomach and used to plicate stomach tissue by engaging tissue from inside of the stomach and drawing it inwardly. In the disclosed embodiments, the tissue is drawn inwardly into a vacuum chamber, causing sections of serosal tissue on the exterior of the stomach to be positioned facing one another. The disclosed staplers allow the opposed sections of tissue to be moved into contact with one another, and preferably deliver staples for maintaining contact between the tissue sections at least until serosal bonds form between them. Each of these steps may be performed wholly from the inside of the stomach and thus can eliminate the need for any surgical or laparoscopic intervention. After one or more plications are formed, medical devices may optionally be coupled to the plication(s) for retention within the stomach. |
| US07913888B2 |
Positioning device with actuating switching means for a hand-held setting tool
A positioning device for a hand-held setting tool (10) includes an actuation element (24), a switching link (30) for connecting an actuation element (24) to the actuation switch (13) of the setting tool (10) for actuating the same, and a safety device (50) for preventing actuation of the actuation switch (13) at an orientation other than a predetermined orientation of the setting tool (10) and including at least three blocking members (55a, 55b, 55c) displaceable in at least three separate channels (56), respectively, and receivable in a recess (51) formed in a switching member (34), that forms part of the switching link (30) a longitudinal axis with the at least three channels (56) intersecting, in some regions, an axial projection of the switching member (34) in the form of a secant and opened toward the switching member (34) in respective overlapping regions (59). |
| US07913886B2 |
Attaching loader bucket to tractor for shipping
A loader bucket is attached for tractor shipping in a non-operational position between the front and rear wheels of the tractor. The loader bucket may be attached to the mast using a bracket between a first surface of the loader bucket and the mast, and a brace between a second surface of the loader bucket and the bracket, to resist pivotal movement of the loader bucket. |
| US07913880B2 |
Squirting toy including a supplemental reservoir system and methods thereof
A squirting toy capable of squirting water received from a reservoir and/or from an external source. The squirting toy can include a housing, a piston, a shaft, and an handle portion. As the piston is slidably moved through the housing the water can be squirted out of the housing. Water can be drawn in from an external source by placing a part of the housing in the water and slidably moving the piston through the housing. Water can also be drawn in from a water reservoir (e.g., a standard water bottle). |
| US07913877B2 |
Aerosol mounting cup for connection to a collapsible container
An improved mounting cup is disclosed for dispensing an aerosol product from a collapsible container within an aerosol container. The improved mounting cup comprises a peripheral rim located in proximity to an outer periphery of the mounting cup for sealing the mounting cup to the aerosol container. A turret is located in proximity to an inner periphery of the mounting cup for receiving an aerosol valve for dispensing the aerosol product from the collapsible container. A mounting surface is located intermediate the peripheral rim and the turret for securing the collapsible container to mounting cup. |
| US07913869B2 |
Container cap
A cap device for use with a container or bottle includes a spout portion having a trough defining an access hole. The cap device includes a drinking implement coupled to the trough and pivotal between retracted and extended configurations, the drinking implement covering the access hole at the retracted configuration and being in communication therewith at the extended configuration. An upper surface of the cap device defines a cavity adjacent to and in communication with the trough that is configured to receive a person's finger to selectively urge the drinking implement between retracted and extended configurations. The cap device may include a pour portion adjacent the spout portion although the spout portion accounts for a relatively larger area than the pour portion. |
| US07913866B2 |
Cream pot
The invention relates to a cream pot (10) for receiving a cream or the like, said pot consisting of an outer pot (11), an inner pot (14), and a connection device for connecting a lid element thereto. The inner pot consists of plastic, is inserted into a receiving element of the outer pot, and comprises a metal wall lining a receiving region (37). |
| US07913863B2 |
Shelving unit whose support board is in quick and easy assembly
A shelving unit includes a support frame and at least one support board detachably mounted on the support frame. The support frame includes a back board which has at least one support rail which is provided with at least one locking slot. The shelving unit further comprises at least one locking knob mounted on the support board and detachably locked in the locking slot of the back board. The support board can be mounted on and detached from the support frame. Thus, the user only needs to rotate the locking knob to lock the support board onto the back board or to unlock the support board from the back board, so that the support board is mounted on and detached from the back board easily and quickly without using tools and saving a considerable amount of time for a user. |
| US07913855B2 |
Self-cleaning filter for agricultural irrigation water
The invention relates to an improved self-cleaning filter for agricultural irrigation water having a support base (8) for the rings (3) traversed by perforated tubes (4) which clean them, allowing the axial movement of the tubes (4) having an integral upper cover (5) at the opposite end which presses them in an axial direction, whereas the lower base (6), also integral thereto, generates the axial thrust to separate and press them, acting as a blocker and allowing the flow path to the perforated tubes (4); incorporating a base (9) acting as a membrane and a spring pressing on the rings (3), with an adjustable separation and variable in number. |
| US07913854B2 |
Filter apparatus and method with simplified filter belt indexing and sealing
A filter apparatus includes a endless filter belt loop disposed in an interior space within a tank which receives liquid to be filtered. The filter belt has a series of closely spaced parallel guide-flight bars attached which are successively engaged by an extendible element on a pivot plate which is periodically oscillated to under the filter belt. The bars are received in guide spaces to hold the filter belt in position over a filter support having openings allowing filtering flow therethrough. Collapsible sealed hoses partially filled with liquid are used as edge seals extending along the guide spaces over side edges of the filter belt and are expanded by engagement of an upper end of each of the hoses with a squeeze member on the pivot plate. The squeeze members are moved off the hoses when the pivot plate is oscillated to advance the filter belt during indexing to release the sealing pressure and allow filter belt indexing movement. The pivot plate oscillation also operates a beater bar to guide the belt to dislodge solids from the belt. In a vacuum version, the filter belt support is provided by molded plastic support pieces assembled over a solid curving support plate in the tank. |
| US07913852B2 |
Modified amine-aldehyde resins and uses thereof in separation processes
Modified resins are disclosed for removing a wide variety of solids and/or ionic species from the liquids in which they are suspended and/or dissolved. These modified resins are especially useful as froth flotation depressants in the beneficiation of many types of materials (e.g., mineral and metal ores), including the beneficiation of impure coal comprising clay impurities, as well as in the separation of valuable bitumen from solid contaminants such as sand. The modified resins are also useful for treating aqueous liquid suspensions to remove solid particulates, as well as for removing metallic ions in the purification of water. The modified resins comprise a base resin that is modified with a coupling agent, which is highly selective for binding to solid contaminants and especially siliceous materials such as sand or clay. |
| US07913850B2 |
Transport and storage container for liquids
A transport and storage container for liquids includes an inner container of plastic material with a closable filling socket and a draining socket for connection to a removal fitting, an outer casing of metal mesh or sheet metal, and an underframe constructed as a skid pallet or frame pallet which is configured to be manipulated by a lifting truck, a shelf operating device, or similar transport device. The skid pallet being equipped with a bottom resting with support legs on a metal skid and two outer skids for supporting the inner container, and the frame pallet being equipped with a base frame and support legs for the bottom. The bottom of the underframe is an injection molded article of plastic material provided with longitudinal and transverse corrugations serving as a support for the inner container and for stiffening the bottom. |
| US07913849B2 |
Lunch box with configurable handle, accessories, containers, and display inserts
A lunch box system includes a hollow body, two lids, a handle, and interchangeable display inserts. The hollow body has an external rib around the sides of the hollow body. The external rib defines holes along its length. The handle detachably secures to any two of the holes. The lids cover the open ends of the hollow body and each has tabs on their exterior for detachably securing the display inserts. Other accessories may also be detachably secured to the holes of the external rib. |
| US07913847B2 |
Packaging system for an object and method of packaging an object
A packaging system in which an object can be maintained for shipping. The packaging system has a shell defining a space for reception of an object in a shipping state and an object engaging surface assembly that bounds at least a part of the space. The packaging system further has a fluid chamber assembly and a fluid within the fluid chamber assembly that has a variable pressure that is increased, thereby to cause the object engaging surface assembly to resiliently bear with increasing force against an object in the shipping state. The fluid within the fluid chamber assembly remains in a flowable state with the packaging system in a final state for shipping. |
| US07913845B2 |
Packaging component for personal care articles
A personal care product has a container component and an absorbent personal care product component. Generally there are four side walls connected in a manner such that the top panel is connected to the bottom panel by the front side wall, the back side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall; and the front side wall is connected to the back side wall by the first side wall and the second side wall. A chamber is able to hold at least one absorbent personal care article component placed within said chamber of the container component. In addition, the container component is devoid of any indicia on the exterior surface of each of the top panel, the front side wall, the first side wall and the second side wall which tends to indicate that the container has at least one personal care product placed within said chamber. |
| US07913837B2 |
Carrier and method
One embodiment of the carrier has a central vertical support panel structure with two foldable receptacles extending outwardly from the vertical support panel structure. The outside wall of each receptacle is extended upwardly and bent over to cover the receptacle, and the top portions of those walls are joined together to form a carrying handle structure, either with or without the upper portion of the vertical support panel structure. The portions of the outside walls forming the covers can have openings to receive the necks of bottles such as wine and beer bottles to give added lateral support for the bottles. A simplified embodiment uses only one of the foldable receptacles and has two lateral side walls which extend upwardly and join together to form a handle structure. |
| US07913832B2 |
Method and apparatus for validating bank notes
A banknote validator takes both reflection and transmission optical measurements at different wavelengths. An emitter and sensor on one side of the banknote path are used to make a calibration measurement using light reflected from a window on the other side of the path, overlying another optical device. Each measurement is normalised on the basis of multiple measurements of different wavelengths, distributed over a substantial area, such as along the relevant scan line, preferably using a value representing the dispersion of the measurements. |
| US07913829B1 |
Laundry chute
A laundry chute for attachment to the brackets supporting a handrail in a stairway without affecting use of the handrail or foot traffic on the stairway. The chute is formed of sections suspended from the brackets on supports that permit the angle of the chute to be adjusted such that dirty clothes slide more readily down the chute into a laundry basket below. The chute sections can be linked end-to-end and packaged for storage, transport and store display in a compact stacked or nested form. The laundry chute is easy to install, easy to remove and facilitates compliance with the house rule that there be no dirty laundry on the bathroom and bedroom floors. |
| US07913822B2 |
Ride height sensing shock damper
A shock assembly includes a first tube having a cylindrical wall with an inner surface and an outer surface. A second tube is received within the first tube and includes a cylindrical wall having an inner surface and an outer surface. A piston assembly is received within the second tube and includes a piston rod and a piston that is selectively movable relative to the first tube and the second tube. A height-sensing device is disposed within the first tube between the inner surface of the first tube and the outer surface of the second tube. |
| US07913818B2 |
Elevator installation in a building with at least one transfer floor
An elevator installation is arranged in a building with at least two elevators, wherein the building is divided into building zones and each elevator has at least one elevator car, each elevator car is independently movable by an associated drive in an associated car zone and each car zone has at least one transfer floor. A first elevator has at least three elevator cars arranged vertically one above the other in a shaft. In addition, at least three car zones are allocated to a building zone. |
| US07913816B2 |
Transaxle with brake
A transaxle has an axle, an input shaft drivingly connected to a prime mover and a brake disposed around the input shaft so as to brake the input shaft. A reduction drive train is drivingly interposed between the input shaft and the axle. The transaxle also has a reduction casing incorporating the reduction drive train and a lube sump provided in the reduction casing. A delivery opening is located at an outer peripheral side surface of the input shaft so as to deliver lube to the brake. The transaxle also has a brake lube passage provided in the input shaft so as to be connected to the delivery opening and lube introduction means for supplying lube from the lube sump to the brake lube passage. |
| US07913815B2 |
Automated seal oil by-pass system for hydrogen cooled generators
Disclosed is a solution to automate a seal oil float trap by-pass for a hydrogen cooled generator. An automated by-pass system is coupled to an existing manual by-pass system for a float trap for a hydrogen cooled generator. The automated by-pass system includes at least one solenoid valve and a controller that controls opening and closing of the solenoid valve. The automated by-pass system can also include manual valves, orifices and limit switches. The controller activates the solenoid valve to allow the seal oil to drain. The controller can also provide a notification alarm that the hydrogen cooled generator is being purged. |
| US07913814B2 |
Acoustic baffle assembly
An acoustic baffle assembly for sealing or baffling a hollow body having a mass of heat activated expandable material that is capable of activating at a predetermined temperature. A substrate supports the mass. The substrate has a central portion and spaced apart projections extending outwardly from the central portion. The projections are configured to control expansion of the mass. |
| US07913805B2 |
Electric power steering apparatus
A rotational angle sensor used in an electric power steering apparatus detects a rotational angle of a motor shaft at a portion on a steering system side, as a motor rotational angle (θm). A MPU sets a base correction amount (Δθ′m) based on a q-axis actual current value (Iq). The MPU sets a rotational angle correction amount (Δθm) used to correct the motor rotational angle (θm) by decreasing the base correction amount (Δθ′m) as a rotational angular speed (ω) increases and by increasing the base correction amount (Δθ′m) as a torque differential value (dT/dt) increases. |
| US07913803B2 |
Vehicular steering apparatus with capability of providing suitable steering angle correction and power assistance
A vehicular steering apparatus according to the invention includes a steering angle correction mechanism, a steering power assist mechanism, and a controller. The steering angle correction mechanism works to provide a correction steering angle to a steerable road wheel of a vehicle. The steering power assist mechanism is configured to provide the steerable road wheel of the vehicle with a base assist power and a correction assist power in a first operation mode and the base assist power and a limited correction assist power in a second operation mode. The controller works to control the steering angle correction mechanism to provide the correction steering angle to the steerable road wheel. The controller also works to control the steering power assist mechanism to operate in the first operation mode if the absolute value of the correction steering angle is greater than a predetermined value and in the second operation mode otherwise. |
| US07913801B2 |
Steering device for construction vehicle
To provide a steering system for a construction vehicle, which is suited not only for traveling on general roadways but also for work at construction sites and can perform high-reliability steering control.A steering system for a construction vehicle is provided with a directional control valve 5 for controlling a flow of pressure oil to body-articulating hydraulic cylinders 2 that perform steering and also with a steering-wheel-operated signal generation means 6 for outputting by operation of a steering wheel 7a a pilot signal to the directional control valve 5 for switching the valve 5. The steering system is also provided with a lever-operated signal generation means for producing by operation of a lever 10a a pilot signal to switch the directional control valve 5, said lever-operated signal generation means including pressure-proportional solenoid valves 12a,12b or the like, selector valves 13a,13b switchable to permit selectively outputting the pilot signal from one of the signal generation means to the directional control valve 5, and an automated switching means for switching the selector valves 13a,13b such that upon operation of the steering wheel 7a, the pilot signal from the steering-wheel-operated signal generation means 6 can be preferentially outputted to the directional control valve 5. |
| US07913800B2 |
Steering system with variable flow rate amplification ratio and associated method
A steering system has a steering control unit and a ratio adjuster for varying a flow rate amplification ratio of the steering control unit. |
| US07913789B2 |
Reinforced upper frame for supporting cabin of heavy construction equipment using welding deformation preventing structure, and method of manufacturing the same
A reinforced upper frame for supporting a cabin of heavy construction equipment using a welding deformation preventing structure and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed, in which even if a side frame is welded to a machined center frame, there is no thermal deformation around the machined portion. The reinforced upper frame includes a center frame having a lower plate machined to accommodate a swing ring gear, a lateral plate machined to accommodate an operation device, and a welding deformation preventing structure fixed to one side of the lower plate and lateral plate prior to welding, in which a part of the cabin is mounted on the welding deformation preventing structure, and left and right frames each having a side channel disposed in a longitudinal direction of the center frame and a side frame welded to the structure for connecting the side channel and the center frame. |
| US07913788B1 |
Integrated energy storage and rear suspension assembly
An integrated aerodynamic energy storage and rear suspension assembly includes a rear fuel tank/suspension module, a battery support assembly and a structural joining plate. The rear fuel tank/suspension module includes a rear sandwich panel, a fuel tank assembly mounted on the rear sandwich panel, with the rear fuel tank/suspension module sliding into a rear body cavity. The battery support assembly includes a propulsion battery mounted on a front sandwich plate, with the front sandwich plate having an upper face sheet adjacent to the propulsion battery, a lower face sheet spaced from the upper face sheet and a core connecting the upper face sheet to the lower face sheet, and with the lower face sheet having a smooth lower surface. |
| US07913787B2 |
Structure for mounting power source pack
A power source pack is arranged on a floor in such a manner that the vehicle front side is positioned higher than the vehicle rear side. Specifically, the front side of the power source pack is placed on a cross member qualified as a structural member that is fixed to traverse the vehicle on the floor. By such a configuration, it is possible to provide a structure for mounting a power source pack that is configured to be less vulnerable to the heat penetrating from a lower surface of the floor to the interior of a cabin even if the power source pack is arranged on the floor. |
| US07913783B2 |
Power-generating device for electro-magnetic or any electric engine
The instant invention is a power-generating device, comprising a shaft assembly having an elongated shaft that is mounted onto a vehicle. The elongated shaft comprises shock-absorbing means. A wheel assembly is mounted onto the shaft assembly. The wheel assembly comprises at least one wheel and an electrical generator. The wheel rotates upon a surface on which the vehicle is traveling upon to generate power at the electrical generator or alternator for an engine of the vehicle. The electrical generator generates the power to a source of rechargeable battery power of the engine. |
| US07913777B2 |
Rock drill
The invention relates to a rock drill (1) for rotational and percussive action, comprising a drill head (2), a conveying helix (3), a clamping shank and a longitudinal drill axis (L), wherein the drill head (2) has at least one secondary cutting element (5a, 5b) with a front and a rear side face (10a, 10b) and wherein the secondary cutting element (5a, 5b) has a center of mass (M) and a cutting edge (11), the center of mass (M) and the cutting edge (11) defining a first plane (E1), the front side face (10a) of the secondary cutting element (5a, 5b) defining a second plane (E2) and the rear side face (10b) of the secondary cutting element (5a, 5b) defining a third plane (E3). In this arrangement, the longitudinal drill axis (L) intersects the first plane (E1) at a first point of intersection (S1), the longitudinal drill axis (L) intersects the second plane (E2) and/or the third plane (E3) at a second and/or third point of intersection (S2, S3), the longitudinal drill axis (L) and the first plane (E1) form a first acute angle (1) in the direction of advancement (x) of the rock drill (1) and the longitudinal drill axis (L) and the second and/or third plane (E2, E3) form a second and/or third acute angle (2, 3) in the direction of advancement (x) of the rock drill (1). |
| US07913772B2 |
Drilling fluid flow diverter
An embodiment of the apparatus includes a housing having a first flow bore and a second flow bore, the first flow bore having a drilling fluid flowing therein, a device disposed in the second flow bore to receive a fluid flow, and a diverter disposed between the first and second flow bores, the diverter having a first position preventing the drilling fluid from flowing into the second flow bore and a second position allowing a portion of the drilling fluid to flow into the second flow bore and through the device. Another embodiment includes a variable second position directing the drilling fluid into the second flow bore at a variable flow rate. A further embodiment includes a drill collar as the housing and a power generation assembly as the device to receive the fluid flow. Embodiments of a method of diverting a fluid flow in a downhole tool include diverting a portion of a first fluid flow to a second flow bore, and further varying a flow rate of the fluid to the second flow bore. |
| US07913768B2 |
Release device
A downhole system including a driving unit for driving an operational tool. The driving unit is provided in a first part of the system and the operational tool is provided in a second part of the system. The system further includes a release device for releasing the operational tool and the second part from the first part of the system. |
| US07913766B2 |
Method for reduction of control lines to operate a multi-zone completion
A method for reducing the number of control lines needed to control a plurality of downhole devices including supplying a first control line in operable communication with a plurality of devices, the plurality of devices including at least one group of devices; supplying a second control line in operable communication with said at least one group of devices; and actuating each device of the plurality of devices in said at least one group of devices simultaneously in response to a pressure event. |
| US07913752B2 |
Cooling device for vacuum treatment device
A cooling system for a vacuum processing apparatus is provided with an internal heat conduction path for transfer of heat entering the subject body through the vacuum processing apparatus, a heat radiation path for radiation of the heat to an outside of the vacuum processing apparatus and a heat conduction path for regulation of quantity of heat transfer between the internal heat conduction path and the heat radiation path. Preferably, a heat pipe is applied to the internal heat conduction path. |
| US07913748B2 |
Vapor chamber
A vapor chamber includes a plate and a wick structure. The plate is provided therein with a working fluid, and the plate has a heated end and a condensed end. The wick structure includes a first wick portion adhered to be opposite to the heated end, a second wick portion overlapping on the first wick portion, and a third wick portion adhered on the rest portion of a chamber. The aperture diameter of the first wick portion is larger than that of the second wick portion, or the aperture density of the first wick portion is smaller than that of the second wick portion. The amount of working fluid attached to the second wick portion is smaller than that of the first wick portion. After heating, the working fluid attached to the second wick portion is vaporized more quickly. |
| US07913743B2 |
Method of forming a pattern
A method of forming a pattern includes providing an actual core having dimensions which are different from dimensions of an ideal core. A best fit spatial relationship of the actual core to a spatial envelope for an ideal core is determined. Locating surfaces in a die are moved to positions, at least some of which are offset from ideal core locating positions, in which the actual core is positioned in a best fit spatial relationship with the spatial envelope for the ideal core. A plurality of motors may be utilized to move the core locating surfaces to desired locating positions. The actual core is positioned in engagement with the core locating surfaces and a flow of wax is conducted into the die. If desired, a best fit spatial relationship of the actual core to a die cavity may be determined, rather than a best fit with an ideal core. |
| US07913739B2 |
High-speed industrial roller door
A high-speed industrial roller door includes a door leaf that is guided in lateral guides and a drive that acts on the door leaf to displace the latter from an open position into a closed position and vice versa. The door leaf is held in the open position so that adjacent areas of the door leaf are not in contact with one another, in a spiral section of the lateral guides located in the vicinity of the door lintel. The roller door also includes a weight compensation device. The drive has two extension arms that are coupled via joints to the lintel end of the door leaf, said arms being situated at a distance from one another across the door width and being synchronously pivoted about a pivoting axis in a central area of the spiral section. The distance between the coupling points of the extension arms on the door leaf and the pivoting axis of the extension arms can be varied. This permits the provision of a roller door with a drive that is situated near the door lintel, for which the degree of potential damage during a collision with the door leaf is reduced in relation to prior arrangements. |
| US07913738B2 |
Selective tilting for blinds—variable radius wrap double pitch
A tilter system for a window blind permits the slats of the blind to be tilted open or closed in a number of different configurations, including a double pitch configuration, depending on the routing of tilt cables or actuator cords. |
| US07913736B2 |
Apparatus and method for affixing adhesive tape
An apparatus affixes an adhesive tape to a workpiece having a cylindrical portion and an outer peripheral surface. The apparatus comprises a tape-feeding device for feeding an adhesive tape below the outer peripheral surface such that the adhesive surface faces upwardly in a direction approximately perpendicular to an axis of the cylindrical portion, a tape-cutting device for cutting the adhesive tape fed from the tape-feeding device in a predetermined length, and a tape-affixing device for thrusting and affixing the adhesive surface of the adhesive tape which was cut by the tape-cutting device to the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion such that the tape-affixing device passes through both sides of the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion from below thereof so as to elevate the adhesive tape. The tape-affixing device is arranged for cut adhesive tape longer than the length of the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion such that adhesive surfaces at ends of the cut adhesive tape are pressed and are adhered each other after the adhesive surface of the adhesive tape was thrust and was adhered to the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion. |
| US07913731B2 |
Pencil sharpener
A pencil sharpener that facilitates the sharpening of pencils by any one or more of the following: preventing injury; automatically sharpening pencils without manual manipulation; providing status indicators during sharpening; and/or allowing varying degrees of sharpness to be selected. |
| US07913728B2 |
Planer and thicknesser
A planer and thicknesser comprising a frame having a passageway that substantially extends through the frame. The planer and thicknesser further comprises an upper table having front and rear sections mounted on the frame, wherein a slot is located between the front and rear sections of the upper table, and a lower table moveably mounted within the passageway. The planer and thicknesser also comprises a cutting drum rotatably mounted within the frame such that a portion of the cutting drum projects upwardly through the slot and a portion of the cutting drum projects downwardly into the passage way. The planer and thicknesser also comprises a cover mounted above the upper table capable of being moved from a first position where it covers a portion of the cutting drum to a second position where it does not cover a portion of the cutting drum. |
| US07913723B2 |
Method for filling a container with gas
The invention relates to a method for filling a container with gas, gas being inserted into the container under compression. In order to be able to fill the container with a larger amount of gas than before and to reduce gas pressure peaks during filling, it is proposed according to the invention that electrically conducting stretched material is inserted into the container before it is filled with gas. Furthermore, the invention relates to a gas container (1), in particular a high-pressure gas cylinder, for storing gases under pressures exceeding 50 bar, in particular exceeding 200 bar, which contains electrically conducting stretched material (11). With gas containers (1) according to the invention, a higher filling level is achieved than before with a given pressure. Containers with a small wall thickness can be used without a safety risk because of a reduction of gas pressure peaks in the interior of containers. |
| US07913722B2 |
Watercraft fueling apparatus and methods
A fuel fill port that helps prevent spillage of fuel during watercraft fueling includes a housing having an opening for installation on a surface of the watercraft and a cap for sealing the opening. A fill tube has one end sized to accept a fuel dispensing nozzle and another end for connection to a fuel tank. A catch basin defined by a bottom portion of the housing is positioned such that backflow of fuel from the fill tube collects within the catch basin. A fill vent has one end positioned relative the fill tube to allow excess fuel from the fuel tank to flow into the catch basin and another end adapted for connection to the fuel tank. One or more passages from the catch basin to the fuel tank guides fuel from the catch basin to the fuel tank. |
| US07913719B2 |
Tape-wrapped multilayer tubing and methods for making the same
The multi-layer tape wrapped tubing for effectively impeding the diffusion of vapor is made in a continuous in-line process and has three distinct layers: an inner tubing layer, a middle diffusion barrier layer and an outer jacketing layer. The inner tubing layer comes into contact with liquid and vapor. Vapor that might ordinarily diffuse through the tubing is impeded by the diffusion barrier layer. The diffusion barrier layer is a laminate comprising a diffusion barrier film with a very low vapor diffusion rate sandwiched between layers of thermoplastic. The diffusion barrier layer is wrapped around the inner tubing one or more times. The outer jacket layer is a polymeric jacket which is extruded onto the diffusion barrier layer wrapped inner tubing. |
| US07913711B2 |
Door assembly for use in a shelter and a shelter including same
A door assembly for use in a shelter, wherein the shelter comprises an outer frame assembly comprising a plurality of intercoupled members forming a coverable structure and a cover for covering the outer frame assembly, wherein the door assembly comprises a door frame comprising a plurality of intercoupled members; and a retractable door arrangement coupled to the door frame, wherein the retractable door arrangement comprises a door comprised of flexible material that can be extended to enclose the shelter or retracted to provide an opening into the shelter; wherein the door assembly does not rigidly connect to the outer frame assembly of the shelter during normal usage thereof. In addition, a shelter system comprising the outer frame assembly, the cover and a door frame comprising a plurality of intercoupled members and a retractable door arrangement is also provided. |
| US07913709B2 |
Umbrella
An umbrella (1) in which the canopy is supported, tensioned and retained on a frame without any external points. The ends of conventional ribs (6,7) are provided with force spreading components (8) which are located within pockets (9) at the periphery of the umbrella canopy (3). As the umbrella is erected, the force spreading components open to provide a surface which pushes outwardly against a bearing surface formed between a pocket and the canopy, which “spread” outwards. The spreading of the components (8) is initiated by the radially outward movement of slidable tubes (7) upon inner rods (6) attached at their inner ends to the shaft (2) of the umbrella. Inner rods (6) and outer tubes (7) together form the ribs or spokes of the umbrella which are supported and raised/lowered by primary struts (11) connected between the ribs and a primary shaft slider (12). Outward sliding movement of the outer tubes (7) over the inner rods (6) is assisted by secondary struts (13) which connect a secondary shaft slider (14) (positioned between the primary shaft slider (12) and the canopy end of the shaft) and a respective primary strut (11). |
| US07913708B2 |
One-handed operating mechanism for opening and closing umbrella
A one-handed operating mechanism for opening and closing umbrella comprises a handle (1) connected to the bottom end of the stem of the umbrella, an elbow member (2) at its curve pivotally connected to said handle (1), a connecting member (3) with its upper end connected to a slide sliding along the stem to open or close the umbrella, said handle (1) is provided with a channel (4) extending from the upper end to the lower end of the handle to accommodate said elbow member (2) and said connecting member (3) to be moving therein, said channel (4) possesses a bottom side (13), said elbow member (2) possesses a handgrip section (5) exposed outside said channel (4) for palm squeezing, and an actuating section (6) located inside said channel (4) for mutual driving with said connecting member. The connecting member is driven by way of operating the elbow member, thereby driving the slide to slide along the stem to push the runner upward toward the crown to open the umbrella. |
| US07913702B2 |
Substrate cleaning method, substrate cleaning apparatus, substrate processing system, substrate cleaning program and storage medium
In a substrate cleaning method for cleaning a backside of a substrate on a surface of which a predetermined processing is performed, a two phase substance contacts the backside of the substrate, and a flow of the substance is generated near the backside of the substrate under a specified pressure. The two phase substance is a gas containing aerosol or a supercritical substance, and the specified pressure is higher than or equal to 133 Pa (1 Torr). Further, in the substrate cleaning method, a high-energy light may be irradiated on the backside of the substrate. |
| US07913701B2 |
Mascara brush
A mascara brush comprises a core formed from a helical twist and a plurality of bristles fixed to the core over a portion extending over an axial length L of the helical twist and comprising a succession of n turns. The plurality of bristles comprises a first plurality of bristles termed radial bristles. The core has an upper portion for fixing to a wand of a mascara applicator. The brush is characterized in that the plurality of bristles further comprises at least one second plurality of bristles termed axial bristles since they extend parallel to the axial direction. The presence of axial bristles in the brush can broaden mascara formulation possibilities. |
| US07913694B2 |
Protective shield and cover
Protective shield and protective or ornamental cover for protecting the vulva and labia minora of a female. The protective shield is shaped to conform to the outer shape of the labia minora and protects the vulva of a female user. |
| US07913693B2 |
Method and apparatus for preventing occlusion of a tracheal tube suction lumen
There is provided a medical tube lumen plug, including: a plug, including: a body configured to be mechanically coupled to a lumen of a medical tube; and a protrusion configured to extend external to the medical tube, wherein the protrusion is configured to prevent occlusion of an aperture, wherein the aperture is configured to provide a pathway between the lumen and a region external to the medical tube. |
| US07913692B2 |
CPAP mask and system
A continuous positive air pressure (“CPAP”) or ventilator system includes a mask (60) and an air flow generator (20). The air flow generator is mounted or provided to the mask's wearer. In one embodiment, air flow generator is mounted on the mask. |
| US07913690B2 |
Method for continuous measurement of flux of gases in the lungs during breathing
A method of calculating the flux of any gas (x) in a CBC circuit for a ventilated or a spontaneous breathing subject, for example said gas(x) being; a) an anesthetic such as but limited to; i)N2O; ii) sevoflurane; iii) isoflurane; iv) halothane; v) desflurame; or the like b) Oxygen; c) Carbon dioxide; or the like utilizing the following relationships; Flux of gas(x)=SGF (FSX−FEX) wherein SGF=Source of gas flow into the breathing circuit (CBC circuit) in liters/minute as read from the gas flow meter as set by the anesthesiologist; FSX=Fractional concentration of gas X in the source gas (which is set by the anesthesiologist); FEX=Fractional concentration of gas X in the end expired gas as determined by a portable gas analyzer, or the like. |
| US07913687B2 |
Oral airway
An oral airway for providing an air passage to a patient's trachea. The oral airway includes a curved section and a straight section with the curved section having spaced-apart curved upper and lower members and the straight section having spaced-apart planar upper and lower members with the same width. The curved upper member has the same width as the planar upper member with the curved lower member having a greater width than the width of the lower planar member. The width of the curved lower member is greater than the width of the planar lower member and the distance between the curved upper and lower members is greater than the distance between the planar upper and lower members. The curved lower member has a generally inverted V-shaped cross-section. |
| US07913686B2 |
Self contained aerosol dual delivery system (SCADDS)
Self Contained Aerosol Dual Delivery System (SCADDS) is a pocket-sized inhaler for delivering inhaled therapeutic or recreational aerosols simultaneously and separately via oral and nasal routes. A handle assembly has a removable mouthpiece, cartridge penetration needles, puncture needle protective cover, a shuttle, a cam, valves and conduits from the penetration needles to the individual nozzles for oral and nasal inhalation. A cartridge contains separate reservoirs of solutions for oral and nasal inhalation. The reservoirs, impermeable bags with fluid and dissolved gas in solution, are punctured when the cartridge is attached to the handle assembly. Inhalation slides the shuttle toward the mouthpiece and opens the valves to release solution. The oral aerosol is inhaled into the lungs while the nasal aerosol provides a pleasant aroma. To enhance oral inhalation solution properties the oral inhalation reservoir may contain finely divided solids in a semi-permeable membranous bag, attached to a second reservoir, or be divided by a filter such that these solids do not occlude nozzles or penetration needles Degassed water may be used to enhance organic compound solubility in solutions. Alternative reservoir bag systems are twin spring driven or gas driven cylinders to provide proper pressure to aerosolize nasal and oral fluids. Hydraulic intensification, piezoelectric pumping devices, and electromechanically driven pressure pumps are alternative pressurization systems. |
| US07913685B2 |
Textile heat accumulator for utilization of solar energy
The invention relates to a textile heat accumulator consisting of a textile carrier material to which a plurality of thin capillaries for water transportation are attached and which is coated with an elastomeric compound comprising finely divided phase change materials such as salt hydrates or crystalline alkyl hydrocarbons. The textile heat accumulator arranged in a roofing structure of a building facilitates the control of the heat flux into the building and the utilization of the latent heat stored within phase change material for hot water generation. |
| US07913684B2 |
Solar heat transfer system (HTPL), high temperature pressurized loop
Delivering heat from modem high temperature solar collectors to hot water storage tanks is more effectively done using unpressurized when cold, self-pressurized on heat up, automatic air eliminating, higher temperature fluid loops. A pressurizing valve, an overflow reservoir and a vacuum relief valve are used. Non-toxic water/antifreeze mixtures are pressurized up to about two atmospheres resulting in a 265° Fahrenheit boiling point. Loss of circulation under full sun results in solar collector boiling under pressure. The steam generated in the solar collector is condensed in the pressurized liquid-to-air radiator, a steam heat pipe, and water is returned to the solar collector to keep it completely full of fluid and steam. A set of pressure-actuated air dampers on the solar collector can also be used to shed the excess solar collector heat. |
| US07913682B2 |
Barbeque grill having foldable stands
A barbeque grill includes a grill body and two stands foldably mounted on a bottom of the grill body. Each of the stands includes a support bracket, two support legs, two pivot units, two locking members, two fastening units, and two elastic members. Thus, each of the support legs is rotatable relative to the support bracket so that each of the support legs is foldable to fold each of the stands to reduce the whole volume of the barbeque grill, thereby facilitating packaging, storage and transportation of the barbeque grill. In addition, each of the support legs is locked onto or unlocked from the support bracket by releasing or pulling each of the locking members so that each of the support legs is expandable and foldable easily and quickly. |
| US07913680B2 |
Portable bow press and limb connector therefor
The invention provides a portable bow press and a limb connector therefor, for use with a bow comprising a pair of resilient limbs that extend outwardly from a handle. The bow press is used to force the outer ends of the limbs together, thereby releasing tension on the bow string and/or cable. The user is then able to remove, replace or repair the bow string or cable while the bow press holds the bow in position. The bow press may comprise two limb connectors which hold the bow press in place. Each limb connector may comprise an outer peg and an inner peg, which are used to couple the limb connector to a bow limb. |
| US07913678B2 |
Retracting containment arrow rest
An arrow rest that contains the arrow shaft before, during, and after the shot. To give the archer a precise, accurate shot, pull-away support fingers 120 degrees apart move in a self centering radial motion towards the center of the arrow shaft when the archer draws the bow to full draw and simultaneously pull away from the arrow shaft in a simultaneous radial motion to give complete clearance to the arrow shaft and its vanes or fletching once released from full draw. |
| US07913673B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling liquid fuel delivery during transition between modes in a multimode engine
A method of transitioning between operating modes in a multimode engine including a diesel-only mode and a diesel pilot, gas mode includes first terminating or initiating the supply of a gaseous fuel, depending on whether the system is transitioning to or from the pilot mode, and thereafter decreasing or increasing the diesel fuel supply quantity. Liquid fuel supply quantity is preferably altered in steps rather than discretely in order to avoid exceeding the lean limit of gas lambda. The number of steps and the percentage decrease or increase in each step preferably varies based at least in part on prevailing speed and load conditions. |
| US07913672B2 |
Hydrocarbon retaining and purging system
Systems, methods, and computer readable storage media are described in which exhaust gas is routed to a hydrocarbon retaining device during starting, and purged to the engine intake manifold. Various alternative approaches are described for controlling operation and diagnosing degradation. Further, various interrelated configurations are described. |
| US07913670B2 |
Venturi jet structure for fuel delivery module of a fuel tank
A fuel delivery system includes a fuel tank having at least a main chamber. A reservoir is disposed in the main chamber. A fuel pump and venturi jet structure are provided in the reservoir. The venturi jet structure includes a jet inlet having a nozzle for receiving fuel from the fuel pump. A fuel inlet tube structure has a first end associated with the nozzle and a second end extending into a portion of the fuel tank. A mixing tube is in communication with, and downstream of, the jet inlet and the fuel inlet tube structure. An outlet is in communication with, and downstream of, the mixing tube. A length of the fuel inlet tube structure is greater than a length of the outlet, and the mixing tube is mounted so that an axis thereof is generally horizontal ±39.90 degrees with respect to the bottom surface of the reservoir. |
| US07913665B2 |
Internal combustion engine
A cylinder of an internal combustion engine is communicated with intake ports. Each of intake valves and each of fuel injection valves are provided to a corresponding one of the intake ports to inject fuel into a combustion chamber through a curved portion and an opening of the corresponding intake port. An injection axis of each fuel injection valve intersects with a surface of the corresponding intake valve placed in a close position at an intersecting point that is located on an upstream side of a central axis of the corresponding intake valve. |
| US07913660B2 |
Cylinder head
A cylinder head includes: a bottom wall; an outer circumferential wall defining inside thereof a disposition space where valves which open and close combustion chambers, rocker arms, a camshaft which actuates the rocker arms, and a rocker arm shaft which supports the rocker arms are disposed; a longitudinal; a lateral wall, integrally formed with the longitudinal wall and the outer circumferential wall; a camshaft support, formed on the lateral wall; a rocker arm shaft support, formed on the lateral wall in such a manner that a height of the rocker arm shaft is shifted from a height of the camshaft; and a head bolt boss, formed on the bottom wall to overlap the lateral wall in a height direction. The lateral wall includes a passage through which a head bolt is passed into the head bolt boss and which overlaps the head bolt boss in the height direction. |
| US07913658B2 |
Valve actuating mechanism for an internal combustion engine, and cylinder head incorporating same
A valve actuating mechanism for an internal combustion engine includes a first rocker arm moving mechanism, a second rocker arm moving mechanism, and a trigger arm. The first rocker arm moving mechanism moves left and right rocker arms from a first operation position side to a second operation position side. The second rocker arm moving mechanism moves the left and right rocker arms from the second operation position side to the first operation position side, and the trigger arm selectively restricts the movement of the left and right rocker arms. During engine operation, left and right rocker-side key portions of the left and right rocker arms, respectively, and left and right trigger-side key portions of the trigger arm selectively maintain or remove a restriction on the movement of the left and right rocker arms, in response to a rocking state of the left and right rocker arms. |
| US07913656B2 |
Variable displacement engine having selectively engageable rocker arm with positioning device
Systems and methods for selectively activating and deactivating gas exchange valves in a variable displacement internal combustion engine include a rocker arm having a positioning device that opposes movement of a lash adjustment device while deactivated to position a coupling hole of the rocker arm within a desired coupling range to facilitate coupling of the rocker arm during subsequent activation of an associated engine cylinder. |
| US07913654B2 |
Gas saving device and method for dissociating water
The method consists of replacing the exhaust pipe directly below the exhaust manifold of an engine with an expanded exhaust pipe that encases the water dissociation device (9), consisting of a long, spirally formed super heater, preferably stainless steel tubing (7) to have vast area of contact to maximize heat transfer to the passing water. The spirally formed tubing causes the passing water to turbulently move in circular manner, superheat, exert great pressure on the inner wall of the superheater tubing, discharges and expands in the large dissociation chamber (9) into its constituents hydrogen and oxygen gases that are immediately sucked into the combustion chamber of the engine to cause efficient combustion of the fuel, reduce emission, add power and speed, increase mileage and release oxygen. |
| US07913653B2 |
Monitoring system
An irrigation system has a water distribution system, a controller, and a pet monitoring system. The controller may modify an irrigation setting of the water distribution system based on a pet elimination signal from the pet monitoring system. The pet elimination signal may correspond to an event such as a pet urination event. |
| US07913649B2 |
Litter box safety guard
A litter box safety guard attached or attachable to a litter box cover of the type having a generally vertical wall and an access opening in the wall, the access opening having a lower opening edge. The safety guard includes a generally vertical planar barrier at least as large as the access opening. The barrier is mountable directly in front of the access opening generally parallel to and spaced from the vertical wall a distance so as to allow entry and exit by cats around the barrier and through the access opening, while blocking access by larger dogs and children. |
| US07913646B2 |
Vacuum processing apparatus and vacuum processing method
The invention provides a vacuum processing apparatus having a function for removing particles on the surface of the sample stage in order to improve the yield of the sample being processed. The vacuum processing apparatus comprises a processing chamber 104 disposed in a vacuum reactor and having plasma formed in the interior thereof, a sample stage 113 placed below the processing chamber 104 and having a sample 102 to be processed placed on the upper plane thereof for processing, and a gas introducing mechanism placed at an upper portion of the processing chamber 104 and having introduction holes for introducing processing gas into the processing chamber, wherein the sample stage 113 comprises grooves 117 and a gas supply port 119 for introducing thermal conductance gas 118 between the sample stage and the sample 102 to be processed, and a mechanism for introducing dust removal gas 120 through the gas supply port 119 between the sample stage 113 and the sample 102 to be processed or a dummy sample 202 having substantially the same shape as the sample to be processed placed on the sample stage 113 within the vacuum reactor, by which particles 201 attached to the sample stage 113 are removed via hydrodynamic force by the dust removal gas 120. |
| US07913645B2 |
Methods and apparatus for incorporating nitrogen in oxide films
In a first aspect, a first method is provided. The first method includes the steps of (1) preconditioning a process chamber with an aggressive plasma; (2) loading a substrate into the process chamber; and (3) performing plasma nitridation on the substrate within the process chamber. The process chamber is preconditioned using a plasma power that is at least 150% higher than a plasma power used during plasma nitridation of the substrate. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US07913639B2 |
Display for indicating the depletion of cleaning agents or auxiliary cleaning agents
The invention relates to a device for indicating the depletion of a cleaning agent or auxiliary cleaning agent introduced into a dishwasher machine for a plurality of washing programs. According to the invention, a display appliance is arranged on or in the dishwasher machine, indicating to the user the depletion of the cleaning agent or auxiliary cleaning agent. |
| US07913634B2 |
Sewing machine
A sewing machine is provided. The sewing machine includes a top covering shaft mechanism, a spreader mechanism detachably attached to the top covering shaft mechanism from below and operable to catch a covering thread and to interlace the covering thread with a needle thread inserted into a needle to form covering stitches, and an operating member having a hook portion and rotatably attached to either one of the top covering shaft mechanism and the spreader mechanism. The other of the top covering shaft mechanism and the spreader mechanism has a protrusion with which the hook portion is engageable. The operating member is rotatable between a position at which the hook portion engages with the protrusion to lock the spreader mechanism with respect to the top covering shaft mechanism and another position at which the spreader mechanism is detachable from the top covering shaft mechanism. |
| US07913631B2 |
Modular portable table
A portable modular table includes a main base unit of a lower frame section, an upper frame section secured to the lower frame section and a counter top removably attached to the upper frame section. The portable modular table can further include one or more attachment components for mounting to the main base unit in a number of configurations. |
| US07913620B2 |
Method of on-press developing overcoated lithographic printing plate
A method of processing an on-press developable lithographic printing plate involving the removal of overcoat after imagewise exposure and before on-press development is described. The plate comprises a substrate, an on-press ink and/or fountain solution developable photosensitive layer, and an overcoat. The laser imaged plate is stripped off the overcoat, and then under a white room light mounted on press and developed with ink and/or fountain solution. Here the plate is capable of hardening upon exposure to a laser, has limited white light stability before the removal of the overcoat, and has significantly improved white light stability after the removal of the overcoat. |
| US07913619B2 |
Embossing apparatus
There is described an apparatus for embossing a decorative layer of an embossing film (12) which is of a strip form, on to a small-radiused corner of a surface element, wherein a high cycle speed and high cycle rates are achieved in that the embossing apparatus (10) has a revolver head (16) which is rotatable stepwise about an axis (18) and which at its periphery (26) has a number of elastic pressing members (28) with which a heating device (30) is associated, wherein the revolver head (16) is reciprocatingly movable on a linear drive device (20) between an embossing position and an inactive position. |
| US07913618B2 |
Punch press tool for stamping successive multicharacter impressions into a workpiece
A punch press tool for stamping successive multicharacter impressions into a workpiece such as a piece of steel, sheet metal, or other workpiece, includes a guide body in which a stamp driver is slidably mounted for being driven downwardly toward the workpiece by a punch press ram which is a standard part of a high speed commercial punch press. A multicharacter marking stamp is supported at the lower end of the stamp driver for reciprocal movement therewith. The marking stamp includes multicharacter wheels that are rotated automatically during operation for advancing characters in sequence responsive to the movement of a character advancing arm. At least one character stamp operating lever is operatively associated with the punch press tool for articulation responsive to motion imparted to the tool by the ram. The lever has an operating element that is operatively associated with the character advancing arm of the multicharacter stamp for indexing the arm to enable successive characters thereof to be placed in an operating position responsive to a stroke of the punch press ram. |
| US07913617B1 |
Plastic bottle crushing system and method
A container with a door forms an operating chamber. A crushing zone within the chamber is defined below by a support and above by a vertically reciprocable ram. A driving assembly raises and lowers the ram to compact a plastic bottle in the crushing zone. A heating element softens the plastic bottle. A programmer is operatively coupled to a plurality of controls for receiving operating instructions and to the heating element and the driving assembly to thereby cause an appropriate cycle of operation for crushing and compacting the plastic bottle. |
| US07913616B2 |
Ram position detection method, ram drive method, ram drive device, and press machine having the ram drive device
A ram driving method including the steps of fixing one end of a large-diameter piston rod integral with a large-diameter piston reciprocably included in a large-diameter cylinder attached integrally to a ram to a fixing unit, connecting one end of a small-diameter piston rod integral with a small-diameter piston reciprocably included in a small-diameter cylinder integral with the large-diameter cylinder to a moving member moved by a motor driving, integrally moving the small-diameter cylinder and the small-diameter piston and communicating a first compartment and a second compartment of the large-diameter cylinder divided by the large-diameter piston with each other, moving the ram integrally with the small-diameter piston rod moved by the moving member, and communicating the small-diameter cylinder with the large-diameter cylinder, thereby moving the large-diameter cylinder with a strong force by a working fluid supplied from the small-diameter cylinder. |
| US07913614B2 |
Milk foamer
An object is to provide a milk foamer capable of smoothly and securely managing hygiene of a suction tube which sucks milk from a milk storage section. The milk foamer sucks the milk from a milk pack via the suction tube and mixes the milk and air with the milker to produce milk foam. The milk foamer includes a control unit which controls the production of the milk foam, and a cleaning unit which executes a cleaning operation of a route extending from the suction tube to the milker. The control unit prohibits the production of the milk foam and instructs the cleaning unit to execute the cleaning operation, in a case where a predetermined time elapses from the previous production of the milk foam. |
| US07913612B2 |
Actuator control device
In an actuator control device that controls an expansion/contraction operation of a hydraulic cylinder, when a main spool 52 is switched to a discharge position for discharging working fluid in the hydraulic cylinder, a back pressure chamber 7 communicates with a tank passage 13 via a first port 14, thereby opening an operate check valve 51, and as a result, the working fluid in the hydraulic cylinder flows into a return passage 4 from an actuator port 1 and into a pilot chamber 20 through a second port 15. A pilot spool 53 is maintained in a balanced position by the pressure of the pilot chamber 20, which is caused to act by a front-rear differential pressure of a control throttle 25, and the biasing force of a spring 22 housed in a spring chamber 21, and therefore the opening area of the first port 14 is controlled to and maintained at a fixed level. |
| US07913608B1 |
Weapon with IM-characteristics
A weapon having a barrel or launch tube for a projectile or shell preloaded therein together with a propellant charge. An active vent is configured on the barrel for preventing accidental firing of the shell if the weapon becomes overheated. |
| US07913603B2 |
Device and methods for firing perforating guns
A perforating gun train for perforating two or more zones of interest includes two or more gun sets made up of guns, detonators, and other associated equipment. In one embodiment, the gun sets are connected with connectors that can convey activation signals between the gun sets. The firing of a gun set creates this conveyed activation signal either directly or indirectly. In one arrangement, a surface signal initiates the firing of a first gun set while subsequent firings are initiated by firing of the gun sets making up the gun train. An exemplary connector is at least temporarily filled with signal conveyance medium adapted to transmit activation signals between the gun sets. In one embodiment, the signal conveyance medium is a liquid. The liquid can be added to the connector either at the surface or while in the wellbore. |
| US07913598B2 |
Format selecting device for wiping material dispensing arrangement
A format selecting device makes it possible to control distribution of material band formats in a one-to-two ratio, wherein the position of the format selecting device enables a cutting blade to come out from a drum at each revolution thereof, for a small format and at each two revolutions per large format. The selecting device acts and initiates a ratio of sprocket assemblies at which sprockets are meshing therebetween for a small format distribution, and certain sprockets are punctually disengaged on the drum revolution for distributing large formats and cancellation of the blade exit outside of the drum. The selecting device is positioned from a flange of a housing and comprises an operating lever provided with two fixed stops which are remote and arranged on the flange defining an angular space corresponding to the lever pivoting in the top or lower part according to a selected format. |
| US07913594B2 |
Ratcheting torque wrench
A tool is provided for driving fasteners that includes a torque limiting mechanism therein. The torque limiting mechanism includes a first frictional engagement member disposed on the drive shaft for the tool that is engaged by one or more second frictional engagement members disposed on one or more sides of the first frictional member. The second frictional engagement members are biased into engagement with the first member by biasing members disposed within the handle that can be adjusted in order to provide more or less of a biasing force to control the frictional engagement of the second member with the first member and thereby control the torque limiting function of the torque limiting mechanism. In addition, a drive shaft is also engaged with a ratcheting mechanism that enables the tool to drive a fastener into a suitable substrate in only a single direction. |
| US07913592B2 |
Tool holding device
A tool holding device is suitable to have an application with a power tool. The tool holding device includes a toolholder for receiving a bit. A sleeve is disposed outside the toolholder and is operable to move between a first position which allows for removal of the bit and a second position which allows the bit to be securely retained in the cavity of the toolholder. A returning member is disposed circumferentially between the toolholder and the second section of the sleeve for returning the sleeve to a neutral position between the first and second positions. Moreover, the portion of the sleeve which does not surround the returning member abuts the toolholder. |
| US07913591B2 |
Multipurpose tool
A multipurpose tool is provided that includes a carabiner and that is designed to fold into a closed position that is relatively compact. As such, the carabiner of the multipurpose tool can be utilized to secure the multipurpose tool to a user, such as to a belt loop or the like, while permitting the multipurpose tool to be folded into a compact form. A handle that includes a carabiner and that can be utilized by such a multipurpose tool as well as a method of forming the handle are also provided. Still further, a multipurpose tool is provided that includes a handle defining a pocket for storing at least one bit in instances in which the bit is not engaged by the bit driver, thereby reducing the likelihood that the bit will be lost or otherwise separated from the multipurpose tool. |
| US07913580B2 |
Apparatus and method for securing transmission gear synchronizers to shafts
A device and method for preloading a transmission shaft assembly is disclosed. The transmission having the device of the present invention generally has a plurality of gears for providing a plurality of speed ratios. The shaft assembly has a first shaft, a first sleeve shaft, a second sleeve shaft and a first fastener. The first shaft has a flange end and an adjustment end. The first sleeve shaft is concentric with the first shaft and has a first end. The first end of the first sleeve shaft is in communication with the flange end of the first shaft. The second sleeve shaft is concentric with the first shaft and is axially aligned with the first sleeve shaft. The second sleeve shaft has a first end. The plurality of synchronizers for selectively connecting at least one of the plurality of gears to at least one of the first and second sleeve shafts. The first fastener is engagable with the adjustment end of the first shaft and is configured to move axially on the adjustment end. The first fastener has a fastener flange that contacts the first end of the second sleeve shaft. The engagement of the first fastener with the adjustment end generates a compressive force through the flange end of the first shaft to the first end of the first sleeve shaft and through the fastener flange to the first end of the second sleeve thereby forcing the first sleeve shaft to move closer to the second sleeve shaft. |
| US07913577B2 |
Flow meter
A flow meter may include a case body formed with a fluid space in its inside, an impeller disposed in the fluid space, a detected part integrally provided in the impeller, a detecting part provided with detecting terminals for detecting the detected part, terminal pins which is provided with terminal contact parts, which are electrically connected with the detecting terminals of the detecting part, and connector parts with which a connector for outputting an electric signal to an outside is connected, and a holder to which the terminal pins are fixed and which is detachably held by the case body through a holder holding part provided in the case body. The detecting part and the terminal contact parts are held between the case body and the holder by attaching the holder to the case body so that the terminal contact parts are contacted with the detecting terminals. |
| US07913570B2 |
Environmental damage sensor
A sensor apparatus for measuring environmental degradation of a structures making use of exposed sacrificial material coupons mounted in the immediate vicinity of magnetic sensor elements in the environment of the monitored structure. |
| US07913569B2 |
Magnetostrictive type strain sensing means and methods
A strain gauge including: a system including a transmission coil, a magnetostrictive material layer and a receiver coil wherein an alternating transmission signal is applied across the transmission coil and an induced signal is induced in the receiver coil, the intensity of the detected signal across the receiver coil being a measurement of strain, wherein frequency of transmission signal is near to a resonance frequency of the system. |
| US07913567B2 |
Temperature compensating pressure sensor having corrugated active membrane
A temperature compensating pressure sensor comprises a substrate having sealed channels on which is deposited a CMOS layer; a conductive layer and a passivation layer deposited on the CMOS layer; a conductive active membrane spaced from the conductive layer to form an active chamber, the conductive active membrane having a corrugated cross section; a conductive reference membrane spaced from the conductive layer to form a reference chamber; and a cap which covers the membranes, said cap exposing the active membrane to an outside fluid pressure. The active membrane deflects due to differential stresses so that an active capacitance is developed between the active membrane and the conductive layer depending on the electrical permittivity e of the fluid, with the reference membrane providing a temperature compensating reference capacitance. |
| US07913566B2 |
Industrial process device utilizing magnetic induction
A process device for coupling to an industrial process for use in monitoring or controlling the process includes a device housing configured to physically couple to the industrial process. A coil of wire is mounted to the housing and a magnet is configured to move through the coil of wire. The relative movement of the magnet is responsive to vibrations in the industrial process. Such relative movement induces an electrical current in the coil of wire. Electrical circuitry in the housing includes an input to receive the electrical current from the coil of wire. |
| US07913565B2 |
Method and system for predicting long-term exposure to a hazardous environment
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for predicting long-term exposure to a hazardous environment based on a user-controllable measurement interval of short duration. In an embodiment, the system includes an electronic circuit for receiving one or more signals representative of the level of a hazard in an environment using one or more of a hazard level sensor and a direct input jack. The system further includes a processor within the electronic circuit for determining an accumulated dose over a user-controllable measurement interval. In addition, the processor predicts hazardous exposure for a user-settable extended period greater than the user-controllable measurement interval and based on the accumulated dose. The dosimeter also includes a user-operable switch within the electronic circuit and in communication with the processor for controlling the user-controllable measurement interval to be less than a nominal measurement interval. |
| US07913563B2 |
Technique and phased array transducer for ultrasonic inspection of coarse grained, anisotropic welds
A transducer for generating acoustic waves more particularly for generating compression waves, comprising an array of transmitter elements and an array of receiver elements, at least one wedge for the array of transmitter elements and the array of receiver elements and preferably an acoustical barrier separating the array of transmitter elements and the array of receiver elements. The pitch of the transmitter array varies along the length of the transmitter array. |
| US07913562B2 |
Flexible plate magnetostrictive sensor probe for guided-wave inspection of structures
An economical, flexible, magnetostrictive sensor for use on planar and/or curved structural surfaces, for guided-wave volumetric inspection of the structure. The flexible plate MsS probe includes a flexible strip of magnetostrictive material that is adhered to the base of a flat, flexible, conductor coil assembly. The conductor coil assembly has a core that is composed of a thin flexible strip of metal, a layer of an elastomeric material, and a thin permanent magnet circuit. The flexible core is surrounded by a flat flexible cable (FFC) that is folded and looped over the layers of the core. The exposed conductors at the ends of the FFC are shifted from each other by one conductor and joined so that the parallel conductors in the FFC form a flat, flexible, continuous coil. The entire probe assembly may be bent to match the curved contours of the surface of the structure under investigation. |
| US07913558B2 |
Method for prevention/detection of mechanical overload in a reciprocating gas compressor
Mechanical overloads in a reciprocating gas compressor can cause irreparable damage to compressor components if the source of the overloads is not repaired. A method of detecting mechanical overloads includes applying an overload indicator across an interface between components in the compressor, and observing a mechanical condition of the overload indicator. The mechanical condition of the overload indicator is indicative of whether the compressor experienced a mechanical overload. By placing the indicator in an appropriate location in the compressor, overload conditions can be checked during routine inspections and maintenance checks. |
| US07913557B2 |
Adjustable testing tool and method of use
Methods and systems for testing a subterranean formation penetrated by a wellbore are provided. A testing tool has a plurality of packers spaced apart along the axis of the tool, and at least a testing port. The testing tool is positioned into the wellbore and packers are extended into sealing engagement with the wellbore wall, sealing thereby an interval of the wellbore. In some embodiments, the wellbore interval sealed between two packers is adjusted downhole. In one embodiment, the location of the testing port is adjusted between two packers. The methods may be used to advantage for reducing the contamination of the formation fluid by fluids or debris in the wellbore. |
| US07913556B2 |
Methods and apparatus to determine the compressibility of a fluid
Example methods and apparatus to determine the compressibility of a fluid are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes capturing a fluid in a chamber, pressurizing the captured fluid to first and second pressures, measuring first and second values representative of first and second densities of the fluid while pressurized at respective ones of the first and second pressures, and computing a third value representative of a compressibility of the fluid using the first and second values. |
| US07913553B2 |
Connection strength testing device
A strength testing device for testing a connection strength between two articles when a connection interface therebetween located vertically and includes a blade member, a suspending member, and a handle. The suspending member includes a relay portion, a first connection portion and a second portion disposed at two opposite ends of the relay portion. The blade member includes a blade seating on one of the articles. A holder is formed on the second connection portion to hold a critical weight to break the two articles along the connection interface. A gravity line of the weight crosses with the blade. |
| US07913550B2 |
Method to diagnose an exhaust gas sensor disposed in an exhaust gas region of an internal combustion engine and device to implement the method
A method to diagnose an exhaust gas sensor disposed in the exhaust gas region of an internal combustion engine, wherein provision is made for a comparison of a measurement for at least one exhaust gas component with a measurement of the exhaust gas component, which is ascertained on the basis of an exhaust gas sensor signal, and a device to implement the method are proposed. The diagnosis is only implemented if a change in at least one operating parameter of the internal combustion engine and/or at least one parameter of the exhaust gas is detected during the running operation of the internal combustion engine. Provision is made in the diagnosis for an averaging of the measurement for at least the one exhaust gas component as well as of the measurement for the exhaust gas component, which is provided by the exhaust gas sensor. Provision is additionally made for a subsequent comparison of the two averages and for an error signal to be provided if the difference of the two averages exceeds a difference threshold value. The procedural approach allows for the diagnosis to occur without a diagnostic intervention into the operation of the internal combustion engine and without an intervention into an open-loop control, which if need be is present, for the metering of a reagent substance, which is introduced into the exhaust gas region of the internal combustion engine to convert at least one exhaust gas component. |
| US07913548B2 |
Determination of engine rotational speed based on change in current supplied to engine starter
An engine rotational speed determining device is disclosed which includes a signal inputting means and a rotational speed determining means. The signal inputting means inputs a signal that indicates current supplied to an electric motor, which starts an internal combustion engine, during a starting operation of the engine by the motor. The rotational speed determining means determines a rotational speed of the engine in the starting operation based on a change in the current indicated by the signal input by the signal inputting means. |
| US07913547B2 |
Engine rotating meter
A level adjusting circuit which adjusts input pulses from an antenna to a level suitable for determining the number of engine revolutions, is connected in a circuit that connects the antenna with a determining circuit. An optimum adjustment of the determination level by manual operation allows the pulses inputted to the determining circuit to be precisely determined at all times. |
| US07913546B2 |
Methods and apparatus for analyzing internal combustion engines
An internal combustion engine is analyzed by an apparatus having a data processing capability. The engine has a plurality of cylinders and a battery operative to power a starter motor. The apparatus measures a time dependence of voltage level or current draw at the battery while the engine is being cranked by the starter motor. The apparatus also measures a respective time dependence of pressure at each of one or more locations in the engine. From the measured time dependence of voltage level or current draw, the apparatus determines a respective value indicative of a compression for each of the plurality of cylinders. Furthermore, the apparatus determines the presence or absence of one or more defects in the engine from the one or more measured time dependences of pressure. |
| US07913542B2 |
Isolated gas sensor configuration
A gas sensor assembly detects a constituent in a gaseous stream. The assembly comprises: (a) a mounting surface, (b) a sensor mounted on the mounting surface and sensor capable of generating a detectable signal in the presence of the constituent, and (c) an enclosing structure. The enclosing structure comprises: (i) a walled component having a pair of vertically spaced ends and mounted at one end on the mounting surface so as to circumscribe the sensor, and (ii) a gas-permeable membrane attached at the other end of the walled component, thereby defining an interior volume within said enclosing structure. Flowing the gaseous stream across the membrane infuses a portion of the gaseous stream into said interior volume containing the sensor. |
| US07913540B2 |
Odor screening system
An apparatus and method are provided for screening odor emitters for one or more target odors. A screening station is adapted to permit an odor emitter, such as a pedestrian or vehicle, to pass through the screening station. An observation room contains a dog trained to identify at least one target odor. An airflow inducer; directs airflow through the screening station. A porous passage allows airflow from the screening station to the observation room. Air flows through the screening station to entrain odors emitted in the screening station and passes through the porous passage for sensing by the dog. |
| US07913539B2 |
Apparatus for drop testing and method utilizing the same
An apparatus for drop testing is disclosed. The apparatus has a drop angle setting jig that horizontally moves on a support frame and positions a test object at a predetermined angle by clamping with a fixture. The jig provides a second datum plane and is connected to a moveable holding frame, with the holding frame providing a first datum plane. After the fixture clamps the testing object, the jig can be pulled back without touching the testing object, and the testing object stays still. Therefore, the testing object can be precisely positioned. Furthermore, with the sliding track and the stopping block, the jig is able to quickly return back to the reference position. |
| US07913535B2 |
Apparatus and methods for dilution
Self-calibrating apparatus and methods for dilution of an analyte-containing fluid, and in particular for dilution of analyte concentrations beyond the normal measurement range of a detector, without the requirement for other detectors. The apparatus is preferably a respirator test system for determining respirator mask fit in the presence of high aerosol challenge concentrations. |
| US07913534B1 |
Microfabricated field calibration assembly for analytical instruments
A microfabricated field calibration assembly for use in calibrating analytical instruments and sensor systems. The assembly comprises a circuit board comprising one or more resistively heatable microbridge elements, an interface device that enables addressable heating of the microbridge elements, and, in some embodiments, a means for positioning the circuit board within an inlet structure of an analytical instrument or sensor system. |
| US07913529B2 |
Centralized TCP termination with multi-service chaining
A network element having centralized TCP termination with multi-service chaining is described herein. According to one embodiment, a network element includes a switch fabric, a first service module coupled to the switch fabric, and a second and a third service modules coupled to the first service module over the switch fabric. In response to packets of a network transaction received from a client over a first network for access a server of a data center having multiple servers over a second network, the first service module is configured to terminate a TCP connection of the packets. The TCP terminated packets are transmitted to the second and third service modules over the switch fabric. The second and third service modules are configured to perform different application network services on the TCP terminated packets without having to perform a TCP process again. Other methods and apparatuses are also described. |
| US07913524B2 |
Apparatus for dyeing textile substrates with foamed dye
An apparatus for dyeing a textile substrate using a plurality of applicators that each apply an increment of a total dye application. In one form a reduced indigo dye in a leuco-state is applied in an inert atmosphere substantially isolated from oxidizing substances. In another form the foamed dye is applied while open to the atmosphere. In both forms holddown rollers or inverted applicators are located between applicators at decreasing depths to minimize increases in tension as the substrate travels over successive applicator faces. |
| US07913523B2 |
Heater coupling apparatus of washing machine
Provided is a heater coupling apparatus of a washing machine and a coupling method for the heater coupling apparatus. The heater coupling apparatus includes a tub, a heater coupling portion, a heater, and a bracket. The heater coupling portion is formed on the tub. The heater is coupled to the heater coupling portion. The bracket forms a closed loop portion in a shape of a closed loop, to dispose the heater within the closed loop portion. |
| US07913522B2 |
Water level sensor of steam generating apparatus for washing or drying machine and steam generating apparatus with the same
A steam generator is used in a machine such as a clothes washing machine, a clothes drying machine, a clothes washing and drying machine, and the like and a level sensor is used in the same. More particularly, a level sensor is integrally formed by molding and conveniently assembled in the steam generator. The steam generator includes a case having a space for storing water, and formed with a level sensor insertion hole and a level sensor. The level sensor includes a conductor having a detector positioned in the space for storing the water and a connector electrically connected to the exterior, and a level sensor housing is inserted into the level sensor insertion hole and is integrally formed with the conductor by insert molding. |
| US07913521B2 |
Connection device for piezoelectric actuators of jacquard bars of knitting machines
A connection device (4) for piezoelectric actuators (3) of jacquard bars for textile machines, comprising a bearing body (32), a plurality of interconnection elements (34) inserted into the bearing body (32), which can be removably connected to a corresponding plurality of interface electric contacts (9) of a plurality of piezoelectric actuators (3), at least one interconnection terminal (33) for the interconnection elements (34) with control means of a textile machine, and at least one fastening portion (35) configured and arranged so as to removably mount the bearing body (32) onto a supporting body (7) of a jacquard thread-guide bar (2). |
| US07913520B1 |
Structure of spacer fabric and thickness-controlled knitting method for producing the same
In a structure of a spacer fabric and a thickness-controlled knitting method for producing the same are disclosed, the method includes knitting a yarn into a three laminated layer fabric, and the three laminated layer fabric includes a top layer, a middle layer and a bottom layer, wherein the middle layer has one end connected with the top layer and the other end connected with the bottom layer; and the spacer fabric has its thickness determined by a length and a knitted angle of the yarn of the middle layer; when in the knitting process, the length of each yarn of the middle layer is gradually decreased/increased and the knitted angle of each yarn of the middle layer is varied, thereby gradually increasing or decreasing the thickness of the spacer fabric. |
| US07913519B2 |
Latch needle with rotating swivel pin
The knitting needle 1 comprises a novel bearing arrangement 16 for its latch 10. The bearing arrangement 16 comprises a swivel pin 20 that is positively and non-rotationally coupled with the latch. An anti-loosening safety may be provided on the base body 2 of the latch needle 1 in order to axially secure the swivel pin 20 in the latch hole 17. Alternatively, the swivel pin 20 may be connected with the latch 10 in order to axially secure said swivel pin. |
| US07913500B2 |
Control method for a refrigerator
A refrigerator control method is provided that may efficiently perform a defrosting operation. The method includes performing a normal operation of a refrigerating storage room and a normal operation of a freezing storage room selectively or simultaneously, setting a variable defrosting period, which is varied according to set parameters including the relative humidity of external air, and performing a defrosting operation based on the set defrosting period. |
| US07913499B2 |
Microgravity condensing heat exchanger
A heat exchanger having a plurality of heat exchanging aluminum fins with hydrophilic condensing surfaces which are stacked and clamped between two cold plates. The cold plates are aligned radially along a plane extending through the axis of a cylindrical duct and hold the stacked and clamped portions of the heat exchanging fins along the axis of the cylindrical duct. The fins extend outwardly from the clamped portions along approximately radial planes. The spacing between fins is symmetric about the cold plates, and are somewhat more closely spaced as the angle they make with the cold plates approaches 90°. Passageways extend through the fins between vertex spaces which provide capillary storage and communicate with passageways formed in the stacked and clamped portions of the fins, which communicate with water drains connected to a pump externally to the duct. Water with no entrained air is drawn from the capillary spaces. |
| US07913498B2 |
Electrical submersible pumping systems having stirling coolers
A submersible pumping system includes a submersible pump; a gauge disposed proximate the submersible pump; a Stirling cooler disposed proximate the gauge, wherein the Stirling cooler has a cold end configured to remove heat from the gauge and a hot end configured to dissipate heat; and an energy source configured to power the submersible pumping system. |
| US07913497B2 |
Desiccant cartridge
The present invention provides a removably attachable compact desiccant cartridge that is useful in lowering the dew point of a medically useful gas, which is liquefied by a cryogenic device. The desiccant cartridge of the present invention comprises a gas feedstream inlet, a dehumidifying zone which comprises a desiccant material, and a dehumidified gas feedstream outlet. The present invention also provides a method for using the same. |