| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07988078B1 |
Glass-breaker mechanism
The glass-breaker mechanism includes a sensor component and a glass-breaker component. The sensor component is installed at a low point within the driver door of a vehicle. The sensor component contains a water-soluble material that retains a spring in its compressed state so long as the water-soluble material is dry. If the vehicle is immersed in water, the water-soluble material dissolves, releasing the spring. The spring drives a pin into the end of a pressurized gas (e.g., CO2) cartridge, releasing the gas therein. The gas passes through a tube to the glass-breaker component installed upon the glass just below the top of the door to drive a spiked piston into the glass and shatter the tempered safety glass of the window. |
| US07988075B2 |
Circuit board configuration for air-powered electrostatically aided coating material atomizer
A coating dispensing device includes a trigger assembly for actuating the coating dispensing device to dispense coating material and a nozzle through which the coating material is dispensed. The coating dispensing device also includes a first port adapted to supply compressed gas to the coating dispensing device and a second port adapted to supply coating material to the coating dispensing device. The coating dispensing device further includes a generator having a shaft and a turbine wheel mounted on the shaft. Compressed gas coupled to the first port impinges upon the turbine wheel to spin the shaft, producing voltage. The dispensing device further includes an electrode adjacent the nozzle and coupled by circuitry to the generator to receive electricity therefrom to electrostatically charge the coating material. A circuit board assembly containing components of the circuitry is configured to partially surround and partially enclose the generator. |
| US07988073B2 |
Fragrance dispenser
A dispenser for dispensing jets of air laden with fragrance, the dispenser being characterized in that it includes a deformable flexible pouch of variable internal volume containing fragrance microcapsules, the pouch initially being substantially empty of air with the fragrance microcapsules intact, the fragrance microcapsules being broken the first time air enters into the pouch, in such a manner as to load the air in the pouch with fragrance, the pouch including an orifice through which the air penetrates into the pouch, and through which the fragrance-laden air leaves the pouch when the volume of the pouch is varied. |
| US07988067B2 |
Water sprinkler with spray coverage adjustment mechanism
A sprinkler apparatus comprises a spray tube configured to move between a first side position and a second side position. The sprinkler apparatus also comprises a first side adjustment mechanism and a second side adjustment mechanism. Each adjustment mechanism comprises markings indicating lesser to greater degrees of sprinkling coverage area. The sprinkler apparatus further comprises a coverage indicator component attached to the spray tube. The coverage indicator component includes at least one window defined therein. The first side adjustment mechanism and the second side adjustment mechanism are independently moveable in relation to the coverage indicator such that the markings on the first side adjustment mechanism and the second side adjustment mechanism are selectively viewable to the user through the window. The positioning of one of the markings within the window results in a related degree of sprinkling coverage area by the sprinkler apparatus. |
| US07988065B2 |
Coupling having a temperature sensitive valve having shape memory actuator
A valve for preventing the flow of fluid when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold, the valve including: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory or bi-metal actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing. |
| US07988057B2 |
Memory device and semiconductor device
It is an object to provide a flexible semiconductor device bearing a memory device with a highly reliable storage function, where the memory device comprises a layer containing an organic compound. Specifically, the memory device has a memory element which comprises a layer including an organic compound between a pair of electrodes and a sealing layer formed over the memory element, and a moisture absorbing material is contained in the sealing layer. As the moisture absorbing material, a particle of molten silica, crystalline silica, alumina, silicon nitride, aluminum nitride, boron nitride, zeolite, an oxide of an alkaline earth metal, sulfate or a high water-absorbing polymer can be used. |
| US07988053B2 |
Digital image capture and processing system employing an image formation and detection subsystem having image formation optics providing a field of view (FOV) on an area-type image detection array, and a multi-mode illumination subsystem having near and far field LED-based illumination arrays for illuminating near and far field portions of said FOV
A digital image capture and processing system including a housing having an imaging window. An area-type image formation and detection subsystem is disposed in the housing, and has image formation optics for projecting a field of view (FOV) through the imaging window and onto an area-type image detection array, for forming and detecting 2D digital images of an object in the FOV, during object illumination and imaging operations. The housing also includes a multi-mode LED-based illumination subsystem having (i) a near-field LED array for producing a field of wide-area narrow-band illumination over a near field region of said FOV, and (ii) a far-field LED array for producing a field of wide-area narrow-band illumination over a far field region of the FOV. During object illumination and imaging operations, illumination from illumination arrays reflects off the object and is transmitted back through the imaging window and onto the area-type image detection array to form 2D digital images of the object. |
| US07988050B2 |
System, method and apparatus for processing an embedded barcode
A document management system including an information processing apparatus having an interface to receive an input selecting one of a plurality of image processing services. The information processing apparatus also generates machine-readable instructions based on the selected image processing services and generates a barcode corresponding to the machine-readable instructions, which is included on a document. An image processing apparatus then scans the document including the barcode and extracts the machine-readable instructions from the barcode. Based on the extracted instructions, the image processing apparatus initiates a process. |
| US07988046B2 |
Vehicle violation enforcement system and method
A PDA device is used to record the ID of a vehicle boot RFID tag and to transmit to the tag and to a host entity violation data such as summons number, license number, time and date stamp, issuing person ID, location of the vehicle, scofflaw data and so on. This data may be entered into the PDA electronically via a communication network such as the internet or LAN system or manually via a keyboard. The host entity has a data base which is uploaded with this information and has correlation of RFID tag numbers to an unlock combination number for each boot. When the boot is attached to a vehicle this PDA data is transmitted to the host entity whose contact telephone number is attached to the vehicle being booted. The driver contacts the entity to pay the fine and receive in return the unlock combination. The driver thus can release and remove the boot within minutes of returning to the vehicle and can return the boot at his leisure. |
| US07988045B2 |
Portable device-based shopping checkout
The present invention provides portable-device based store checkout. Specifically, a portable device is configured for store checkout. When the shopper obtains an item, he/she scans its barcode and captures its image using the portable device. The identity of the item as determined based on the barcode is compared with its appearance as determined based on the image. If the two are consistent with one another, the item is added to an inventory of items. The shopper can checkout by linking (e.g., porting) the portable device to a checkout station. The linking will cause the inventory of items to be made known to the checkout station, which will arrange payment using the portable device. Optionally, as an additional validation, the shopping receptacle can be weighed at the checkout station to make sure it reasonably meets an expected weight determined based on the inventory. |
| US07988042B2 |
Method for playing a request on a player device
The present invention relates to a method for playing a request on a player device. The method includes the step of transmitting a pen stroke corresponding to a first one of a number of possible applications to a server. A form is then submitted to the first application. The method further includes the step of sending, from the server and to the player device, a play request corresponding to play information borne by the submitted form so that the player device plays a request corresponding to said play request. |
| US07988034B2 |
Dual dispensing container
A container of the present invention is designed for shipping and holding various items. The container is formed from a blank of a material, such as corrugated material, plastic, paperboard, etc. and includes side panels extending between a top portion and a bottom portion. A tear line extends around the side panels for disengaging the top portion from the container thereby exposing all of the items extending along the side panels. An improved configuration of the perforations or slits along the tear line prevents the corners defined between the side panels from being damaged and deformed and provides for smooth tearing of the tear line from the container. A second tear section is defined in the a portion of the container by a perforation line with the tear section being separable from the top portion thereby partially exposing the items contained in the container. |
| US07988029B2 |
External deburring of welded pipe
An external weld bead is removed and processed from a welded pipe traveling in a downstream direction. The weld bead is separated from the pipe, allowed to flow in a downstream direction, and is guided downstream and cut into chips at a location downstream of where the weld bead is separated from the pipe. |
| US07988028B2 |
Surgical instrument having an asymmetric dynamic clamping member
A surgical instrument is disclosed. The surgical instrument includes a handle assembly, a drive assembly, an endoscopic portion, a pair of jaw members, a dynamic clamping member, and a tissue stop. The drive assembly is disposed in mechanical cooperation with a movable handle of the handle assembly. The endoscopic portion defines a first longitudinal axis. The jaw members are each longitudinally curved with respect to the longitudinal axis. The dynamic clamping member is disposed in mechanical cooperation with a distal portion of the drive assembly and includes an upper beam, a lower beam, and a vertical beam having a cutting edge on a distal portion thereof. At least a portion of the dynamic clamping member is longitudinally curved with respect to the longitudinal axis. The tissue stop is disposed adjacent a distal portion of the first jaw member and configured to impede tissue from distally escaping the jaw members. |
| US07988023B1 |
Adjustable gun sling
A gun sling for carrying a rifle or shotgun is adjustable to serve either as a bungee sling or a fixed-length, non-stretch sling. In a preferred embodiment this is realized with a flexible sheath forming a portion of the sling, with a bungee cord or stretchable strap inside the sheath. With the bungee relaxed the sheath forms a non-stretchable but flexible portion of the sling. When the bungee cord is stretched and tensioned, the sheath gathers and shortens so that the bungee provides for a desired length of stretch. |
| US07988015B2 |
Adjustable storage rack for a vending machine
A vending machine includes at least one width-adjustable storage rack, the storage rack having a fixed wall and a movable wall connected to the fixed wall by at least one connecting link; and an adjustment mechanism constructed and adapted to position the movable wall relative to the fixed wall and to thereby vary an interior width between the fixed and movable walls. Two movable walls can be connected to a single fixed wall. |
| US07988005B2 |
Storage system
A storage system for storing a plurality of fluids or other goods has a plurality of containers adapted to fit within a receptacle. Each of the containers has an inner sidewall, an outer sidewall, and a top sidewall having a spout sealable with a cap such that the container contains the fluid or other goods when the cap is engaged with the spout. The plurality of containers are shaped such that the containers are stackable or nestable within the receptacle such that the containers tessellate, the inner sidewalls of the containers abutting each other, and the outer sidewalls abutting the inner surface of the receptacle, completely filling substantially all of the receptacle. |
| US07987995B2 |
Method and apparatus for preparing platelet rich plasma and concentrates thereof
The PRP separator-concentrator of this invention is suitable for office use or emergency use for trauma victims. The PRP separator comprises a motorized centrifugal separation assembly, and a concentrator assembly. The centrifugal separator assembly comprises a centrifugal drum separator that includes an erythrocyte capture module and a motor having a drive axis connected to the centrifugal drum separator. The concentrator assembly comprises a water-removal module for preparing PRP concentrate. The centrifugal drum separator has an erythrocyte trap. The water removal module can be a syringe device with water absorbing beads or it can be a pump-hollow fiber cartridge assembly. The hollow fibers are membranes with pores that allow the flow of water through the fiber membrane while excluding flow of clotting factors useful for sealing and adhering tissue and growth factors helpful for healing while avoiding activation of platelets and disruption of any trace erythrocytes present in the PRP. |
| US07987994B2 |
Flexible tube for cartridge filter
Embolic protection filtering devices and methods of making and using the same. The present invention may include an embolic protection filtering device including a filter cartridge that is slidable over medical devices, for example, guidewires. The filter cartridge may have a filter coupled thereto and may have desirable flexibility and trackability characteristics. |
| US07987993B2 |
Solid separator especially for a combustion facility
A separator of solids for separating first and second solids, the diameter and density of the first solids being larger than the diameter and density of the second solids. A first substantially vertical internal baffle (2) forms a passage in the low portion of the separator and forms two compartments (1A, 1B) on the passage of the fluidized solids. The fluidization of each compartment is independently controlled by two fluidization gas inlets (3A, 3B) in order to obtain the desired velocity field for separating the first and second solids in the first compartment (1A) and discharging the second solids through a vent (8), as well as for transferring the first solids into the second compartment (1B). The first baffle (2) is provided on at least one of its substantially vertical faces with fluidization gas ejectors (E2) and the first compartment (1A) is equipped with an internal obstacle arrangement deflecting the path of the solids and at least partially provided with fluidization gas ejectors (E4A) directed towards said first baffle (2). |
| US07987992B2 |
Coke separation process in paste plant
The invention describes a process and apparatus producing a dense coke fraction from a first particulate coke fraction having a first average density and a first average particle size distribution, stratifying the coke fraction in a density separator into at least two fractions, the at least two fractions comprising a light coke fraction and the dense coke fraction. The dense fraction having an average density greater than the first average density and a particle size distribution substantially equivalent to the first average particle size distribution. The apparatus includes an inclined oscillating table comprising a gas-pervious deck, and a gas mover. |
| US07987991B2 |
Pulper with screen plate having maximum defibering edges
A screening machine for a fiber suspension includes a vessel; a rotor disposed within the vessel; and a screen plate positioned in stationary opposition to the rotor. The screen plate includes a plurality of substantially parallel first grooves extending in a first direction and a plurality of substantially parallel second grooves extending in a second direction. The first grooves intersect with the second grooves. The first grooves and the second grooves conjunctively define a plurality of lands and depressions. A plurality of the lands and a plurality of the depressions include a through-hole extending through the screen plate. |
| US07987990B2 |
System, methodology, and product to sort, organize, and store toy building/construction sets
A system, methodology, and product to sort, organize and store individual members of building/construction toy sets utilizing a multi-level system of bins with sieves at different heights using user applied forces and gravity to automatically sort and organize pieces into bins, while providing a fun hands-on sorting experience for kids. The location, size and shape of the sieves can be designed to optimize sorting speed and user experience for specific toy manufacturer brands including Lego™ bricks made by Lego Corporation. The system also functions as a storage unit for the pieces, during and after sort. A flexible binding mechanism holds the system together during sort. The system is designed with see-through materials to monitor the status of the sort and find specific pieces in respective bins. A set of wheels enables mobility. The “hands-on” involvement in sorting also makes this an entertaining and educational apparatus for kids. |
| US07987989B2 |
Methods and apparatus for prepaid card packaging
Techniques for providing cost effective and tamper evident prepaid card packaging are described. By forming a cutout in a panel of the prepaid card packaging, covering the cutout with a material such as red glassine, and aligning an activation bar code or other indicia on the card with the cutout when mounting the card within the packaging, the security of the activation indicia can be better maintained. After purchase, the bar code can be scanned through the red glassine but prior to purchase, the red glassine prevents photocopying. |
| US07987987B1 |
Product display system having an integral protective case for housing and displaying a product
A bi-layer product package (12) includes a protective case (20) secured between opposed display and backing layers (14, 16) of the product package (12). A product display base (24) of the case projects through a display void (18) of the display layer (14) and houses a product (30). A capture lid (22) and twist-off securing structures (32, 40A, 40B, 42) of the case are secured between the display and backing layers (14, 16) of the package (12) to prevent the display base (24) from passing completely through the display layer (14). The display base (24) replaces a traditional transparent blister or projection of a blister pack during display of the product (30), and during usage of the product (30), thereby minimizing materials and manufacturing costs, while providing in one package (12) both a product (30) and a removable protective case (20) integral with the package (12). |
| US07987986B2 |
Device and use for storage and provision of medicament wafers
To monitor the intake of medicaments present in wafer form, a device is made available which is suitable for storage and provision of such forms of administration. This device comprises medicament pouches, which are arranged as a stack of pouches and contain medicament wafers, and it has the following features: a) the device has a support 9 which extends parallel to an edge of the medicament pouches 1 and on which date indicators are arranged, b) a marking 20 is arranged on each of the medicament pouches 1 in such a way that markings 20 arranged on successive medicament pouches 1 in the stack of pouches are each in alignment with successive date indicators. This ensures monitoring of the intake of the wafers. |
| US07987985B2 |
Pack containing medicament and dispensing device
A pack containing medicament, the pack including a base having first and second opposing faces, at least one recess being formed in the first face, a foil secured to the first face so as to form with the at least one recess a sealed compartment for housing medicament and a substantially rigid member housed in the compartment extending generally from the second face to the first face such that the member can be pushed from the second face so as to rupture the foil outwardly of the compartment at the first face without compressing the medicament and a dispensing device for use with or including such a pack having an actuator for pushing the member from the second face so as to rupture the foil outwardly of the compartment at the first face. |
| US07987978B1 |
Reed case
A reed case includes a base, a lid carried by the base and a reed-carrying insert provided in the base. The reed-carrying base includes a plurality of generally elongated, parallel, spaced-apart insert slots; at least one extension spring provided in each of the insert slots; and at least one retainer spring provided in each of the insert slots. |
| US07987976B2 |
Integrated carton and bottle opener
A container package that includes a structural component for holding a plurality of containers, and an opener affixed to the structural component and configured to allow a user to open one of the plurality of containers without removing the opener from the structural component. |
| US07987975B1 |
Standable wrench rack
The present invention discloses a wrench rack comprising a main frame, two recess bases, a linkage member and a cover plate. Two recess bases are set on the main frame, and each recess base has a plurality of recesses defined on its front for handle portions of wrenches to be engaged. The linkage member links with the main frame and the cover plate respectively. When the cover plate covers up the front of the main frame, the wrenches are limited. When the cover plate is flipped to the rear of the main frame, the cover plate is able to sustain the main frame along with the stand of the main frame. Therefore, the stability of the holder to place wrenches can be improved and so can the flexibility for users. |
| US07987973B2 |
Pushing belt
A conveyer belt, of the type used in endless conveyors, has a plurality of belt links. Each belt link is substantially identical, and has a front edge, a rear edge, two side edges, an upper surface, and an under surface between the edges. The front and rear edges relate to the direction of travel in use. The front edge of each belt link is provided with an indentation and the rear edge is provided with a mirror image of the indentation in the form of a recess. The front edge of one belt link snugly fits in the rear edge of an adjacent belt link. |
| US07987960B2 |
Torque arm assembly for a backstopping clutch
Various torque arm assemblies for a backstopping clutch are provided that enable load sharing among multiple torque arm assemblies, controlled release of load on the torque arm assembly and/or load sensing. The torque arm assembly includes a head member that is connected to an outer race of a backstopping clutch and defines a pair of attachment points. One end of an arm member is pivotally connected to one attachment point of the head member while the other end of the arm member is connected to a stationary structure. A strut extends between the other attachment point of the head member and the arm member. Upon backstopping action in one embodiment, the head member rotates slightly against the force of the strut allowing other torque arm assemblies to receive a portion of the system load. The position of the strut may be adjustable to allow controlled release of the load tension. |
| US07987954B2 |
Harmonic damper
A damper for reducing vibrations present in various portions of small vehicles, other transportation devices and other rolling and/or motorized devices, such as bicycles, motorcycles, lawn mowers, snowblowers and the like, may comprise a resilient member and a weight. The resilient member may mounted to a portion of a device having a surface suitable for engaging and retaining the resilient member therein, and the resilient member may have an inside surface suitable for engaging and retaining the weight. |
| US07987948B2 |
Length adjustable passenger handle assembly for elevator
Disclosed herein is a distance adjustable passenger handle assembly for an elevator. The handle assembly comprises plural fixing members (120), and plural handle supports (140). Each fixing member (120) includes a horizontal wall (122) having an opening (124) formed at an intermediate portion thereof along the entire length thereof. The opening (124) has a width which prevents the head of the fastener (30) from passing therethrough. Each handle support (140) includes a vertical partition (144), and a horizontal wall (146). The vertical partition (144) defines a space (143) inside the handle support (140), and has a through hole (145). The horizontal wall (146) has an opening (147) corresponding to the opening (124). With the handle securely fixed the handle support, the handle support (140) is inserted to the fixing member (120), adjusted to a desired distance to the inner wall, and securely coupled to the fixing member (120). |
| US07987947B2 |
Call indicator provided near elevator car currently assigned to the call
Destination calls entered by means of buttons (21-29) are each given a designation unique to the car and pick-up floor for that call and other calls to be serviced therewith, such as a letter (A-E), which is different from any other outstanding calls. Calls can be reassigned among elevators (UL, LL, UR, LR) whether they are in the same or different hoistways (LF, RT). Signs (31-39, 41-49) adjacent each hoistway are illuminated to display the designation of any call which is being answered by an elevator car approaching the floor. Thus, passengers are informed when their call is being answered by the signs identifying the call, rather than identifying any particular car. Another embodiment identifies (60, 31a, 41a) the hoistway landing doorway (1, 2) as well as a letter to allow passengers to wait adjacent to the hoistway landing doorway of the car which will serve them. |
| US07987945B2 |
Method for regulating the traction in a line of a ladder climbing assistance device and ladder climbing assistance device
A method for regulating the traction in a line (13) of a ladder climbing assistance device, in which method any movement of the line (13) is sensed and in dependence of the sensed movement either increasing the traction in the line to a predetermined high level (L1), maintaining the traction at a predetermined high level (L1), or decreasing the traction to a predetermined low level (L0). Furthermore, a ladder climbing assistance device comprising a line (13) that is movable along the ladder (1) and a motor (8) with a power outlet arranged to provide an essentially constant traction in the line (13). The ladder climbing assistance device comprises sensing means (25) for sensing any movement of the line (13), which sensing means is connected to controlling means (26) for controlling the power outlet from the motor (8) in response to signals from the sensing means in the above-described manner. |
| US07987944B1 |
Firearm sound suppressor baffle
A baffle configured for use in a firearm sound suppressor is disposed along a longitudinal axis that defines a path of travel for a projectile moving from a rearward side to a forward side. The baffle includes a rear bell portion having a first annular exterior surface and a forward bell portion having a second annular exterior surface. Along the longitudinal axis in a forward direction, the rear bell portion decreases in cross-section and the forward bell portion increases in cross-section. The baffle further includes a waist portion connecting the rear bell portion and the forward bell portion. A central bore extends along the longitudinal axis through the rear bell portion and defines an annular interior surface which is sized to receive a projectile traveling along the longitudinal axis. The baffle may be one of a plurality of baffles in a baffle stack. |
| US07987942B2 |
Upper frame for excavator
An upper frame for an excavator is provided to smoothly transmit the load and shock which is transmitted through a mounting portion of a working device during operation (e.g., a lifting operation mode), to an upper frame by integrally installing a bracket for mounting a fuel tank or the like on an upper plate of the upper frame. The upper frame includes a center frame having a bottom plate and a pair of side plates and vertically welded to the bottom plate, a left side frame welded to the side plate of the center frame, a right side frame welded to the side plate of the center frame, an upper plate placed in the front of the center frame for supporting a bracket for a working device, to which a boom is pivotally secured, and an extended member integrally extended from one end of the upper plate for supporting desired parts. |
| US07987940B2 |
Hydraulic accumulator and fire suppression system
A hydraulic pressure accumulator has an interior chamber containing a fire-suppressing gas such as nitrogen. The fire-suppressing gas in the accumulator is fluidly connected to a thermal device, such as a valve with a thermal fuse or a controlled valve triggered by a thermal sensor. The thermal device is designed to open a fluid connection between the accumulator's interior chamber to ambient when the exterior temperature exceeds a determined safety threshold, thereby releasing the fire suppressing gas from the accumulator. |
| US07987935B2 |
Power output apparatus and vehicle equipped with the same, and method for controlling power output apparatus
When an exhaust gas switching valve is in a closed state, a target rotation speed Ne* and a target torque Te* are set in the same way as when the exhaust gas switching valve is in an open state to control an engine (S120, S130). A motor torque command Tm1* is set by using the target torque Te* corrected by a correction torque ΔT based on an engine rotation speed Ne, and also a motor torque command Tm2* is set so that a torque demand Tr* is delivered to a drive shaft to control motors MG1 and MG2 (S150 to S230). Thereby, since the exhaust gas switching valve is in a closed state, even if the output from the engine decreases, the engine and the motors MG1 and MG2 can be controlled properly. |
| US07987934B2 |
Method for controlling engine speed in a hybrid electric vehicle
A method for controlling operation of a hybrid powertrain is proposed, the hybrid powertrain comprising an internal combustion engine, an electric energy storage device, an electric machine, and an electro-mechanical transmission. The engine and the electric machine and the transmission are operative to transmit torque therebetween to generate an output. The method comprises determining optimum engine operation and an engine capability, and an operator torque request. A limit to the engine capability is determined based upon optimum engine operation, engine capability, and states of the parameters of the electrical energy storage device. Power limits are determined. The limit to the engine capability is adjusted based upon the power limits of the energy storage device. The engine operation is controlled based upon the engine capability and the adjusted limit to the engine capability. |
| US07987933B1 |
Motorized stroller apparatus
The motorized stroller apparatus features double wheels at all four corners for lesser rolling resistance over various surfaces. The front wheel sets are fully pivotal. The on/off switch provides more than one function. In the on position, the motor is connected with the axle. The motor thereby serves as an automatic brake until the spring biased throttle lever is actuated. Spring bias causes throttle shut off when released. In the off position, the switch disengages the axle from the motor, thereby allowing for stroller function in a non-powered mode. The optional dual rear wheel sets drive encourages the stroller to track straight, as opposed to single wheel set drive which would continually encourage angular propulsion. |
| US07987932B2 |
Heavy vehicle
A heavy vehicle, such as a transport vehicle or a “civil engineering” vehicle, of a mass greater than 500 metric tons, fitted with tires of radial structure of a diameter greater than three meters fifty having an axial width greater than 37 inches, and comprising a front axle provided with at least two tires and a rear axle, by which is transmitted at least part of the motive power. The rear axle of the vehicle comprises at least five tires. |
| US07987930B2 |
Drill bit assembly for fluid-operated percussion drill tools
The invention relates to a drill bit assembly for fluid-operated percussion drill tools comprising a percussion bit (1) having a head portion (3) formed with an axially extending stub shank (32). The stub shank is provided with axially extending splines (36), which are slideably engageable with complementary splines (35) formed on a drive chuck (4). Rotational drive from the chuck (4) may be transmitted to the stub shank (32) by means of the splines. Bit retaining means (6, 7, 41, 42) at the chuck are adapted for engagement with complementary retaining means (37, 51) at a spline portion of the stub shank to retain the stub shank in the drill bit assembly. Engagement means on the chuck (4) are adapted for connecting the chuck (4) to a drive means (5) of the fluid-operated percussion drill tool. The invention also relates to a down-the-hole hammer comprising an external cylindrical outer wear sleeve (5), a sliding piston (8) mounted for reciprocating movement within the outer wear sleeve (5) to strike a percussion bit (1) of a drill bit assembly located at the forward end of the outer wear sleeve (5) wherein the drill bit assembly is an assembly as described above. |
| US07987927B2 |
Steering of bent housing mud motor downhole rotation device
A steerable drilling system includes a drill string carrying a bent housing, the bent housing containing or having associated therewith a drive motor arranged to drive a drive shaft angled to an axis of part of the drill string adjacent the bent housing, and an orientating motor permitting relative rotation between the drill string and the bent housing, the orientating motor driving the output shaft in a reverse direction relative to a direction of rotation of the drill string to form a curve in a borehole being formed. |
| US07987923B1 |
Valve tester suspension assembly
A valve tester suspension assembly for allowing one person to perform the tasks necessary to test underground valves includes an articulated arm attached to a mobile base such as a vehicle. The articulated arm may be biased such that the biasing assists in supporting the weight of a rotating assembly positioned at a distal end of the articulated arm. The articulated arm is pivoted to permit positioning of the rotating device in a substantially horizontal orientation at a desired position within a three dimensional space adjacent to the base to which the articulated arm is attached. A method of use is also described. |
| US07987920B2 |
Multi-mode drill with mode collar
A drill includes a housing and a motor coupled to an output member by a transmission. The transmission can selectively couple the output member to an output spindle through a low speed output gear or a high speed output gear for rotating the output spindle at a first speed or a second speed, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, a low speed mode can be provided by actuating an electronic switch that limits the speed of the motor. A rotatably fixed hammer member and a rotatable hammer member can be mounted around the output spindle. A mode collar can be rotatably mounted on the housing and around the output member for movement to positions that correspond to various mode of operation, including a low speed mode, a high speed mode, and a hammer-drilling mode. In the hammer-drilling mode, the transmission operates in the high speed mode. |
| US07987912B2 |
Reversible polymeric gelation for oilfield applications
A subterranean location accessed via a wellbore is treated with an oilfield fluid containing a viscosifying agent which is a polymer and a cross-linking agent which can undergo the Diels-Alder reaction to form a gel. Conditions at the subterranean location alter fluid viscosity by bringing about the Diels-Alder reaction to increase viscosity or the retro Diels-Alder reaction to decrease the viscosity of the gel. |
| US07987907B2 |
Hydrocarbon recovery process
Method for increasing the recovery of crude oil from a reservoir containing at least one porous and permeable subterranean formation wherein the formation includes sandstone rock and at least one mineral that has a negative zeta potential under the reservoir conditions and wherein crude oil and connate water are present within the pores of the formation. The method is carried out by (A) injecting into the formation a slug of an aqueous displacement fluid that displaces crude oil from the surface of the pores of the formation wherein the pore volume (PV) of the slug of the aqueous displacement fluid is at least 0.2 and less than 1 and the aqueous displacement fluid has a total dissolved solids (TDS) content in the range of 200 to 10,000 ppm and the fraction of the total multivalent cation content of the aqueous displacement fluid to the total multivalent cation content of the connate water is less than 1, and (B) subsequently injecting into the formation a drive water of higher multivalent cation content and/or higher total dissolved solids content than the aqueous displacement fluid. |
| US07987901B2 |
Electrical control for a downhole system
A method for controlling the electrical power delivered to a downhole system. The downhole system may include a power supply, a downhole tool, and a wire or cable connecting the downhole tool to the power supply. A resistive load, such as a motor, is included with the downhole tool. The power supplied to the downhole tool is dynamically adjustable to match the resistive load voltage and power rating. Dynamically adjusting power is accomplished by varying voltage from the power supply, varying the resistive load requirements, or a combination of both. |
| US07987899B2 |
Micro-structured cooler and use thereof
For providing a particularly efficient micro-structured cooler intended more specifically for cooling electronic components, it is proposed to proceed in the following manner to build this cooler: providing a stack of at least two metal foils (1) comprising channels (2) for coolant and one base plate (5) adapted to be brought into thermal contact with the electronic component (4) through a thermal contact surface (6), said metal foils (1) and said base plate (5) being joined together so as to form a single piece of material, said channels (2) having a width b ranging from 100 to 350 μm, a depth t ranging from 30 to 150 μm, a mean spacing s ranging from 30 to 300 μm, residual foil thickness r remaining after formation of the channels (2) in the metal foils (1) ranging from 30 to 300 μm and said base plate (5) having a thickness g ranging from 100 to 1,000 μm. |
| US07987896B2 |
Method for guiding a cast material out of a casting chamber of a casting system, and casting system for casting a cast material
In a method for guiding a cast material out of a casting chamber of a casting system, the cast material is discharged from a casting chamber by means of a succession of guiding rollers and rolling rollers. A rolling roller exerts a rolling force on the cast material to reduce the thickness of the cast material, whereas a guiding roller, which simply guides, exerts no rolling force on the cast material. At least the rolling rollers are driven by a drive, each drive applied under load. Because the rolling force of at least one rolling roller is detected, and the load of the drive of this rolling roller is controlled according to the detected rolling force, a method can be provided by which the stability of the casting speed is increased, and a significant reduction of the thickness of a cast material is achieved. |
| US07987892B2 |
Spherical casting sand
A spherical casting sand having an average particle diameter of 0.03 to 1.5 mm, produced by a flame fusion method, usable together with a urethane binder. Casting sands capable of producing a mold having higher strength and excellent surface smoothness without deformation or breakage with fewer gas defects in producing a mold by using a urethane binder in the cold box process or in the urethane self-hardening mold making method. The casting sand has longer bench life in the cold box process. Amount of generated gas that is a problem of the mold making method using a urethane binder can be significantly reduced, and a casting with fewer gas defects can be obtained. |
| US07987890B2 |
Blinds and components thereof
The invention relates to blinds, components of blinds and assembly of blinds, and particularly to the tilt mechanism of a Venetian blind. The tilt mechanism includes a slider element to which the cords of the cord ladder are attached. The slider element has a base portion fixedly mounted in an aperture of the head rail, and a sliding portion. The ladder cords are routed through holes in the base portion, through a void between the sliding portion and the base portion and out of the ends of the slider element. The ends of the ladder cords are secured proximate respective ends of the sliding portion. The void is divided into separate chambers and the holes of the base portion communicate each with a respective chamber. A further hole and chamber may be provided to accommodate a lift cord. Tangling of the cords is eliminated, and the compact arrangement allows a slim and attractive head rail to be used. |
| US07987889B1 |
Wheel servicing apparatus and methods
A wheel servicing machine provides a rotatable shaft having a retractable rod slidably disposed in a center bore of the rotatable shaft, wherein the retractable rod is longitudinally moveable relative to the shaft. A rotatable locking member is disposed on the distal end of the retractable rod. The locking member includes one or more mounting studs protruding radially therefrom for engaging a centering cone or a wheel clamp. A tool support arm including a stage protrudes from the base. A tool adapted for engaging a sidewall of a tire is attached to the support arm. A second stage including a second tool configured for engaging the opposite sidewall of the tire may also extend from the base. A platform assembly having one or more spring-loaded rollers is attached to the base in some embodiments. A longitudinally moveable travel arm includes a jointed auxiliary arm extending therefrom. A wheel clamp includes a plurality of arms, wherein at least one arm is moveable relative to at least one other arm. A method of securing a wheel to a wheel servicing machine is also provided. |
| US07987883B2 |
Tire for heavy vehicles
A tire having a radial carcass reinforcement comprising a crown reinforcement formed of at least two working crown layers of inextensible reinforcement elements, which are crossed from one ply to the other, forming angles of between 10° and 45° with the circumferential direction, which itself is topped radially by a tread, said tread being joined to two beads by means of two sidewalls. The tire comprises additionally in each shoulder at least a layer of reinforcement elements which are parallel to each other in the layer and are oriented circumferentially, the axially inner end of said additional layer being radially adjacent to the edge of the radially outermost working crown layer, the axially outer end of said layer being located at a distance from the equatorial plane of the tire which is at least equal to the distance between said plane and the end of the working layer to which it is adjacent and the distance between said additional layer and the end of the axially widest working crown layer being greater than 1.5 mm. |
| US07987881B2 |
Tread comprising relief elements covered by a specific mixture
A tire tread comprising a plurality of elements in relief (1) comprising a contact face (2) intended to come into contact with the roadway during travel and lateral faces (13, 14, 15, 16), the intersection of each lateral face with the contact face forming a ridge (23, 24, 25, 26). The tire tread also comprises a plurality of cutouts (3, 4) in the form of grooves and/or incisions, said cutouts being defined by facing main faces. Each tread pattern element (1) is formed with at least one rubber mix (referred to as “base mix”). This tread, viewed in section in a plane containing the thickness of this tread, has at least one face defining at least one cutout covered at least in part with a second rubber mix, referred to as “covering mix”, this part having covering mix extending when new over a height Hr at least equal to 30% of the height H of the face, and wherein at least one first base mix opens on to the contact face when new or at the latest after wear at most equal to 10% of the height Hr. The covering mix comprises a butyl rubber and the covering mix comprises a plasticiser of the type unsaturated C12-C22 fatty acid ester. |
| US07987878B1 |
Vapor recovery fuel dispensing nozzle
A fuel dispensing nozzle has a body defining a fuel supply passage and a vapor return passage each having a control valve operated by a hand actuated lever pivotally connected to an axially movable tubular member retained by a diaphragm actuated clutch. A fuel spout extends from the body and is surrounded by an annular plastic socket assembly to define therebetween a vapor return passage. The socket assembly includes a first socket member supporting an annular vapor seal for engaging a fuel tank fill tube. The first socket member is supported for universal free tilting movement by a second socket member supported by the body for axial movement. The second socket member supports a pin connected to a crank arm for blocking operation of the clutch, and an annular flexible cover surrounds the socket assembly to protect the socket members which provide unrestricted flow of fuel vapors. |
| US07987876B2 |
Reinforcing bar binder, wire reel and method for identifying wire reel
A reinforcing bar binder capable of certainly identifying the type of a wire reel and automatically adjusting the amount of feeding of the wire wound around the wire reel or the twisting torque on the wire is provided. The reinforcing bar binder feeds a wire while rotating a wire reel mounted in a storing chamber and binds a reinforcing bar. The storing chamber is provided with a first detecting means for detecting the amount of rotation of the wire reel and a second detecting means for detecting the number of second to-be detecting portions on the wire reel during the amount of rotation detected by the first detecting means. The binder main body is provided with controlling means for controlling the amount of feeding of the wire or the twisting torque on the wire based on the number of the second to-be-detected portions detected by the second detecting means. |
| US07987873B2 |
Device and method for repairing pipe
The present invention relates to a new liner for repairing a damaged portion of a pipe. A lining tube formed from a non-resin absorbent material has an exterior surface adapted to receive a curable resin and contact an interior wall of the pipe. The present invention also includes a main/lateral liner assembly for repairing the junction between main and lateral pipes using a non-resin absorbent liner for at least a portion of the lining. |
| US07987872B2 |
Diaphragm for throttling a volume flow in an air distribution ducting system of an air-conditioning unit of a commercial aircraft
The invention relates to a diaphragm (1) for throttling a volume flow in an air distribution ducting system of an air-conditioning unit of a commercial aircraft. The diaphragm includes a plurality of spring-elastic elements (10) that effect a throttling of the volume flow through the diaphragm (1). The invention also relates to the use of such a diaphragm (1) for installation in an air distribution ducting system of an air-conditioning unit on board a commercial aircraft. |
| US07987871B2 |
Switching valve
A selector valve, comprising a valve chamber having a first valve seat and a second valve seat facing the first valve seat, a first fluid passage communicating with a first valve port on the periphery of the first valve seat of the valve chamber to flow a first working fluid therein, a second fluid passage communicating with the valve chamber to flow the working fluid therefrom or therein, a third fluid passage communicating with a second valve port on the periphery of the second valve seat of the valve chamber to flow the working fluid therefrom, a valve element disposed in the valve chamber and alternately separating from and coming into contact with the first valve seat and the second valve seat, a stem part connected to the valve element, a guide hole movably guiding the valve stem, a storage chamber for a seal means installed around the guide hole, an auxiliary passage allowing the storage chamber to communicate with the first fluid passage, and a solenoid part connected to the stem part for operating a solenoid rod. A first pressure receiving area formed by the first valve seat and the valve element joined to each other to receive the pressure of the first working fluid is set approximately the same as the third pressure receiving area of the stem part receiving the first working fluid in the storage chamber. |
| US07987866B2 |
Zwitterionic surfacant together with an anionic ether-containing surfactant as a drag-reducing agent
The present invention relates to the use of a zwitterionic surfactant in combination with an ether sulphate or ether carboxylate surfactant in a water-based system as a drag-reducing agent. The combination has besides a high drag-reducing effect also a low sensitivity to hard water. |
| US07987860B2 |
Method for making a composite item comprising a cosmetic product and an ornamental element
A method for making a composite item which has a cosmetic product, or layer thereof, and a decorative element. The decorative element is inserted within a seat formed in the cosmetic product and the composite item is inserted within a container for cosmetics. The method includes the steps of: providing at least one through hole within the cosmetic product, or layer thereof, such that the through hole has a size which allows the decorative element to be at least partially inserted therein; fastening or resting the decorative element onto a support which has a base portion that geometrically interferes with at least one inlet opening of the through hole, preventing the base portion from entering the through hole; and arranging, at least partially, the decorative element within the through hole, through the inlet opening with the base portion being engaged with the inlet opening of the through hole. |
| US07987859B2 |
Adjustable multi-barrel hair waving appliance
An apparatus and method for an adjustable multi-barrel hair waving appliance is disclosed herein. The appliance has a plurality of barrels, at least one of which is an adjustable barrel, wherein the barrels are heated during use. In one embodiment two outer barrels and one adjustable center barrel are provided. The center barrel is manually adjusted to be closer or farther from a winged shield that clamps hair against the barrels and is formed to cradle the outer barrels. A locking mechanism locks the center barrel in place after adjustments are made via projections at an end of the center barrel. Adjusting the center barrel closer to the shield results in shallow or tight waves, and deep or loose waves result when the center barrel is adjusted farther from the shield. |
| US07987856B2 |
Smoking article with bypass channel
A smoking article having a tobacco rod of a smokable material and a filter system attached to the tobacco rod of smokable material. The filter system includes a first filter portion and a second filter portion, the second filter portion concentrically positioned with respect to the first filter portion and having a lower resistance to draw than the first filter portion during an initial puff on the smoking article. The second filter portion closes upon contact with the mainstream smoke of the initial puff, such that after the initial puff, the first filter portion has the lower resistance to draw. |
| US07987851B2 |
Valved fenestrated tracheotomy tube having outer and inner cannulae
A tracheotomy tube apparatus includes an outer cannula having first and second ends, a fenestration along the length of the outer cannula between the first and second ends, and a first inner cannula sized for insertion into the outer cannula. The first inner cannula includes a resilient region which lies adjacent the fenestration when the first inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula, and a valve operatively associated with the first inner cannula. A region between the resilient region and the valve provides a passageway between the first inner cannula and the outer cannula when the first inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula. |
| US07987849B2 |
Method for determining the consumption of a CO2 absorber in a respirator with rebreathing system
A method for determining the consumption of a CO2 absorber (8) in a respirator with a rebreathing system, with a fresh gas mixer (1) and with a computing and control unit (10). The rebreathing system has a respiration drive (2), a volume flow sensor (3) located in the inspiratory branch, a CO2 absorber (8) located in the expiratory branch, whose output, combined with that of the fresh gas mixer (1), is fed into the inspiratory branch, a breathing gas escape valve (7) and a breathing gas reservoir (9). The computing and control unit (10) is connected to the fresh gas mixer (1), to the respiration drive (2) and to the volume flow sensor (3) in order to receive signals and send control commands. The fresh gas volume flow FG discharged from the fresh gas mixer (1) and the inspiration volume flow I flowing into the inspiratory branch are determined in the method in the computing and control unit (10). A value for the purified rebreathing volume flow abs admitted from the CO2 absorber (8) is determined from the difference I−FG of those values, and a rate of CO2 absorption is determined herefrom on the basis of a preset CO2 concentration value or from a CO2 concentration value measured with a gas sensor in the expiratory branch and integrated over time in order to determine the quantity of CO2 absorbed in the CO2 absorber (8). |
| US07987846B2 |
Method and apparatus for vaporizing a compound
Disclosed is a method and device for rapid heating of a substance. One embodiment includes a substance including a drug to be vaporized for inhalation therapy. A sealed fuel cell containing a combustible filament is placed in a heat exchange relationship with the substance. An igniter is operatively associated with the combustible element. The substance may be vaporized inside of a housing to allow the vaporized drug to aerosolize and be inhaled by a user. |
| US07987844B2 |
Catalyzed hot gas heating system for concentrated solar power generation systems
A solar power generation system includes a fluid housing, a solar collector, and a heating system. The fluid housing contains a heat transfer medium. The solar collector concentrates solar energy onto the heat transfer medium. The heating system includes at least one gas tank containing a gas and fluidically connected to a first catalyst. The first catalyst is configured to catalyze gas from the gas tank to create hot gas. The heating system also includes a first hot gas pipe fluidically connected to the first catalyst and positioned with respect to the fluid housing such that hot gas flowing through the first hot gas pipe comes into thermal contact with the heat transfer medium within the fluid housing. |
| US07987841B2 |
Pneumatic toy launching apparatus
A pneumatic launching apparatus is described. The pneumatic toy launching apparatus includes a collapsible bellows with an outlet configured to allow air to exit the collapsible bellows. A gripping device is attached with the collapsible bellows, and a platform is attached with the gripping device. A launching tube is attached with the platform and is formed to releasably engage a launchable object. An air transfer tube connects the collapsible bellows and the launching tube. Upon compression of the collapsible bellows against a surface, air travels from the collapsible bellows, through the air transfer tube, and out of the launching tube to launch an object attached with the launching tube. A rotating mechanism attached with the platform allows rotation of multiple launching tubes. The gripping device further comprises a rotation actuator to induce rotation of the platform. |
| US07987839B2 |
Method to determine a fuel composition
The invention concerns a method to determine the composition of a fuel from the components ethanol and gasoline of an internal combustion engine, wherein the fuel is supplied to the internal combustion engine by a fuel supply unit and via two fuel distributor rails; and the exhaust gas is discharged from the internal combustion engine by two exhaust gas manifolds of a first and a second exhaust gas system, which are separated from each other, wherein the first and second exhaust gas system have in each case at least one exhaust gas probe and wherein current changes in the ethanol content of the fuel are evaluated from the signal differences of lambda signals from the exhaust gas probes. With this method, a change in the ethanol content of the fuel can be detected, and an explicit condition for a change in fuel can be derived. Moreover, with the method, errors in the fuel-mixture can be distinguished from an altered fuel composition, which takes place after the tank has been filled fueling. |
| US07987837B2 |
Exhaust treatment system for internal combustion engine
Systems and methods are provided for operating an engine exhaust system. In one example, a system comprises a first valve, and a second valve coupled to the first valve via a shaft. A first position of the shaft situates the first valve closed and the second valve open, a second position situates the second valve closed and the first valve open by a first amount, and a third position situates the second valve closed and the first valve open by a second, larger amount. |
| US07987836B2 |
Multi-cooler EGR cooling
A system is described for coordination of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) flow through and around a plurality of EGR coolers differently depending on operating conditions. |
| US07987835B2 |
Fuel injector
The invention relates to a fuel injector, in particular a common rail injector, for injecting fuel into a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. The fuel injector has an injection valve element which is adjustable between a closing position and an opening position and which is switchable by means of a control valve. The control valve has a sleevelike control valve element that is adjustable along an adjustment axis and in its closing position rests sealingly on a control valve seat element. According to the invention, it is provided that the control valve seat element is disposed movably relative to the adjustment axis of the control valve element. |
| US07987831B2 |
Method for the production of a single part piston and a piston produced by such a method
The present invention relates to a method for producing a single part piston (20) for an internal combustion engine from a piston blank (10), with a cooling channel (15) that is open in the downward direction running circularly inside a piston head (11), and an annular recess (16) built between the piston head (11) and a piston shaft (13), wherein the piston head (11) and the piston shaft (13) are connected to each other by means of a piston hub (14), and wherein the annular recess (16) and the cooling channel (15) are machined into the piston blank (10) by means of a cutting operation. According to the invention, it is provided that, for the cutting operation of the cooling channel (15), a tool (17) is moved into the area of the cooling channel (15) in an arc-shaped pivoting movement (A) through the recess (16), and that the cooling channel (15) is cut. |
| US07987829B2 |
Camshaft adjusting device
The camshaft adjusting device has an inner spring retainer which mates with a rotor and an outer spring retainer which is fixed on a spring cover plate. |
| US07987818B2 |
Animal litter box
To provide a movable hood which can be opened and closed smoothly even though a distance between the movable hood and a fixed hood is reduced. An animal litter box 1 comprises an evacuation container 2; and a hood 3, the hood 3 having a fixed hood 31, a movable hood 32, and a pair of connecting portions, wherein the movable hood 32 is configured to be moved rotatably outside or inside the fixed hood 31 in the state that an end edge is proximal to the fixed hood 31 with maintaining a prescribed distance, and wherein at least one of the fixed hood 31 and the movable hood 32 is provided with a convex restricting portion 6 which prevents a distance between an end edge on at least the one end of the movable hood 32 and the fixed hood 31 from being less than the prescribed distance. |
| US07987812B2 |
Mask frame assembly
A mask assembly configured to prevent the mask from being thermally transformed and to maintain gaps between a plurality of divided pattern masks is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the mask assembly comprises: an open mask that has a plurality of first openings arranged in rows and columns; and a pattern mask that comprises a plurality of unit pattern masks. In some embodiments, the ends of the unit pattern masks may be fixed with respect to the open mask, and the unit pattern mask includes a plurality of mask pattern units configured to align with the plurality of first openings of the open mask. In some embodiments, a tensile force is applied to the unit pattern mask(s). |
| US07987811B2 |
Apparatus for supporting workpieces thereon
An apparatus (100) for supporting workpieces thereon includes a seat (10), a holding board (20), and a magnetic module connecting the seat to the holding board. The magnetic module (70) includes a first member (40) secured in the seat and a second member (50) secured in the holding board. The first member and the second member cooperate to provide a magnetic force thereby detachably fixing the holding board to the seat. |
| US07987805B1 |
Neutrally buoyant submerged system using lesser density ballast fluid
The invention provides a means by which the attitude or orientation of a submerged object can be changed or altered using a fixed quantity of transferable ballast fluid which has a density less than that of the surrounding fluid in which the object is submerged. In one embodiment, the process utilizes a static negatively buoyant material (which could be a lead weight) to offset the net negative buoyancy of the transferable ballast fluid. In this way, the total overall buoyancy of the system does not change, but by transferring ballast fluid into expandable reservoirs which are physically separated from the static negatively buoyant material, the separation between the center of buoyancy and the center of mass of the object can be changed, and thus the attitude or orientation of the object, if it is unrestrained, may be changed. |
| US07987803B2 |
Pontoon boat
Disclosed is a pontoon boat. The pontoon boat includes a deck, a pair of pontoons, an elongated channel member and a boat. The pair of pontoons is disposed on a water side portion of the deck for supporting the deck above a water level. The elongated channel member is disposed on the water side portion of the deck between the pair of pontoons. The elongated channel member is configured to have longitudinal sliding movement with respect to the water side portion of the deck. The boat includes a body portion and a pair of lip portions. The pair of lip portions is configured to be slidingly received in the elongated channel member for removably securing the boat to the water side portion of the deck. |
| US07987799B2 |
Adjustable shelf
A shelf includes a first shelf section and a second shelf section that slidingly fits with the first shelf section such that the first shelf section and second shelf section are configured to form a shelf surface having a usable shelf surface area that is variable. |
| US07987797B2 |
Stackable packaged goods pallet
A pallet for shipping and displaying of packaged goods wherein the pallet comprises a plurality of stacking feet joined together by angled ribs to substantially prevent or inhibit spreading of the stacking feet due to high weight loads, a plurality of handles that include handle-strengthening areas and finger recesses to increase the strength and lifting ergonomics of the pallet, and an angled surface on the bottom of the stacking feet to facilitate transporting of the loaded pallet from a distribution vehicle to a retail location over certain obstacles. Accordingly, the packaged goods can comprise beverage trays filled or partially filled with beverage bottles, or any good and/or raw material for sale and/or use in manufacturing. |
| US07987793B2 |
Amusement ride device
Amusement ride device, comprising a track and at least one carriage, which carriage is moveable along the track in a transport direction. The carriage comprises a transport part which engages on the track, at least one platform that allows to support the feet of at least one passenger, and at least one passenger torso restraint engaging on the torso of the passenger for safely supporting the passenger. The transport part comprises one of the passenger torso restraint or the platform to support the passenger, while the other is connected by connecting means to the transport part. The connecting means are designed to allow the passenger to perform movements during the ride while being restrained by the torso restraint, wherein the torso restraint performs a movement with respect to the platform during said movements of the passenger. |
| US07987791B2 |
Method of disrupting electrical power transmission
A method of disrupting electrical power transmission including the steps of launching a projectile from a hand-held launcher, ejecting a plurality of electrically conductive members from the projectile, and bridging electrical contacts of power transmission equipment. |
| US07987789B2 |
Method for reducing the amount of ammunition types to be used and an ammunition device
A method for reducing the amount of ammunition types to be used against a wide set of targets. At least two explosive charges are made use of in cooperation. Each of the explosive charges has changeable characteristics and is arranged to mutually cooperate in different ways depending on the particular changeable characteristics given to the explosive charges in a specific case and the type of target to be combated. An ammunition device admitting a reduction of the amount of ammunition types to be used. At least two cooperating explosive charges are arranged in a row along the direction of movement of the ammunition device when activated. Each of the explosive charges is switchable between at least two operating conditions having different operating characteristics. |
| US07987783B2 |
Doctor blade system, doctor blade clamping device, chambered doctor blade system, printing unit, method for clamping a doctor blade, and method for attaching a clamping portion of a chambered doctor blade
A doctor blade system for printing units is disclosed, which is arranged for applying ink, or the like to a rotatable cylinder in a printing unit, comprising an elongated frame, having a support and at least one clamp, which frame is arranged parallel to and outside the cylinder and on which are mounted, on each clamp of the frame, an elongated doctor blade, which is arranged for operative wiping engagement against the cylinder, each clamping portion comprising an elongated slit into which a doctor blade is intended to be partly introduced and fixed by a clamp, wherein the clamp is resiliently arranged for providing a damping action for the doctor blade. A doctor blade clamping device is also disclosed, as well as a chambered doctor blade system, a printing unit, and a method for attaching a clamping portion of a chambered doctor blade frame. |
| US07987782B2 |
Printing apparatus for liquid crystal display device and pattern forming method using the same
A printing apparatus for a liquid crystal display (LCD) device and a patterning method using the same is disclosed. The printing apparatus includes a printing plate; a printing roller to roll on the printing plate and to print a pattern material onto a substrate; a coating roller to transfer the pattern material to the printing roller; and a printing nozzle to coat the pattern material onto the coating roller. |
| US07987781B2 |
Method and apparatus for applying an accurate print pressure during production
A stencil printer includes a frame, a stencil coupled to the frame, a substrate support coupled to the frame to support a substrate in a print position, and a print head, coupled to the frame, to deposit and print viscous material over the stencil. The print head may include a squeegee blade configured to engage the stencil, a squeegee blade mount configured to house the squeegee blade, a squeegee blade movement mechanism configured to move the squeegee blade mount in a z-axis direction from a raised position in which the squeegee blade is spaced from stencil and a lowered position in which the squeegee blade engages and applies a force on the stencil, and a connector configured to pivotally connect the squeegee blade mount to the squeegee blade movement mechanism. The connector may include a load cell configured to measure force of the squeegee blade against the stencil. Other embodiments and related methods are further disclosed. |
| US07987779B2 |
Apparatus for printing on the plant surface and the artificial plant surface
An apparatus for printing on the plant surface and the artificial plant surface, comprises a housing. A gripping device for holding the plant or artificial plant and a printing unit for printing on its surfaces are disposed in said housing. Said printing unit is connected to a computer which is external or integrated in the housing. The printing unit of the present invention is an ink jetting unit, which can print on the plant surface and the artificial plant surface, especially flower, artificial flower, leaves and the fruit. People can communicate information using these articles, which satisfied the demand. |
| US07987778B1 |
Pre-separator for a screen separator
A pre-separator for a screw press separator wherein the pre-separator increases the concentration of solid material in a water solid material mixture. The pre-separator is configured to have a frustoconical screen surface where a plurality of wiper blades engage the interior portion of the surface to provide de-watering action, and the plurality of blades are configured to reposition with respect to the center axis of the frustoconical surface to allow for engagement between the interior surface of the frustoconical screen, and the wiper blades. |
| US07987777B1 |
Engineered tall grass biomass baling system
A biomass baler having a baling chamber adapted to receive tall grass biomass material, a compression system adapted to compact the material into a rectangular bale in the chamber, and an ejection system adapted to move the bale from the chamber, wherein the baling chamber has a front wall consisting of a reciprocating compression platen corresponding in dimensions to the width W and height H of the bale, opposing upper and lower walls corresponding in dimensions to the length L and either of the W and H of the bale, and opposing sidewalls corresponding in dimensions to the L and the other of the W and H of the bale, wherein each chamber wall selected from among the upper wall, the lower wall, and the sidewalls can withstand a minimum distributed force perpendicular to the selected wall of at least (0.22×Pp×Aw) pounds, wherein Pp is the maximum pressure that the compression platen can apply to the material and Aw is the area of the selected wall expressed in square inches. |
| US07987775B2 |
Continuous food cooker
The present invention relates to a portable household food cooker capable of receiving a food mixture and producing food items in a continuous fashion. The continuous food cooker generally includes a housing and a hopper. The hopper is disposed above the housing for receiving the food mixture and for dispensing the food mixture into the cooker. The continuous food cooker also includes a hot roller assembly for forming and cooking the food mixture, a hot roller drive assembly operatively attached to at least one roller, and a cutter for cutting the produced food item at a desired length. The hot roller assembly includes at least one rotatable roller and at least one heating element for heating the at least one roller. The at least one roller and the at least one heating element are disposed internally to the housing. |
| US07987767B2 |
Methods, capsule and apparatuses for the production of foamed drinks
The invention provides a method for the preparation of a foamed drink comprising the steps of: providing a capsule containing a foamable ingredient; providing a receptacle positioned to collect fluid escaping from the capsule; injecting liquid into the capsule to mix with the foamable ingredient; allowing the foamable ingredient mixed with the liquid to escape from the capsule into the receptacle; followed by injecting further liquid into the receptacle in a jet having a diameter of from about 0.5 to about 2 mm to produce foamed liquid in the receptacle. The invention also provides capsules, apparatus and systems specifically adapted for use in the method. Preferably, the food ingredient is a milk powder, and the method produces a hot foamed beverage such as a cappuccino coffee. |
| US07987763B1 |
Double action firing pin system
A firing pin system for a firearm, including a breech block, a firing pin slidably disposed in the breech block and a single firing pin coil spring adapted to both urge the firing pin toward a cartridge in a barrel of the firearm when the firearm is fired and, subsequent to firing, to urge the firing pin back away from the cartridge such that the firing pin does not protrude through a breach face of a breach block of the firearm subsequent to firing. |
| US07987762B2 |
Apparatus for defeating high energy projectiles
A armor system for protecting a vehicle from a projectile, the projectile having an expected trajectory and the vehicle having a hull, is disclosed. The armor system has a modular armor subsystem configured to be mounted exterior to the vehicle hull. The modular armor subsystem has a leading layer having metal, leading relative to the expected projectile trajectory, and an intermediate sheet-like layer having low density material, of a density less than metal, abutting a rear surface of the leading layer. The armor system also has an intermediate sheet-like layer having glass fiber material and abutting a rear surface of the intermediate low density material layer, and an intermediate sheet-like layer having metal and abutting a rear surface of the intermediate glass fiber layer. |
| US07987760B1 |
Systems and methods for igniting explosives
Systems and methods are presented herein that provide for ignition of explosive devices through electric and/or electromagnetic discharge. In one embodiment, an electrostatic discharge is directionally propagated through air to conduct electric current to the explosive device. The electric current may ignite the explosive device via heat, via triggering of ignition circuitry, via induced electric current conduction to the explosive material therein and/or via direct electric conduction to the explosive material therein. Alternatively, or in addition to, electromagnetic energy may be directionally propagated to the device through a waveguide. Such electromagnetic energy may be in the microwave region and may heat and/or induce electric current in the explosive device. In either instance, the directionally propagated energy may be time varying. In one embodiment, a system is configured with a vehicle to distally position the directionally propagated energy to the explosive device such that damage caused by the device is inhibited. |
| US07987758B2 |
Rolled media cutter
The rolled media cutter includes an elongated tray and a cutting mechanism. The elongated tray includes first and second substantially parallel channels. The first channel is formed in the tray and is configured to receive the rolled media therein. The cutting mechanism is configured to be slidingly coupled to the second channel. The cutting mechanism includes a cutting surface and a slider coupled to the cutting surface. The slider is configured to be retained within the channel so as to prevent the cutting mechanism from being removed from a portion of the second channel. |
| US07987757B2 |
Bread slicer
A bread slicer is provided, which includes a receiving area for receiving a loaf of bread; a return area for delivering sliced bread; and a path along which the bread moves from the receiving area to the return area. The path includes a substantially downwardly inclined surface extending from the rear of the receiving area to the return area. The slicer has a slicing element for slicing the bread as it passes from the receiving area to the return area; and a guard for preventing access to the slicing element from the receiving area. The guard is fixed relative to a guide mechanism, the guide mechanism being movable along a path divergent from the inclined path to advance the loaf along the path. |
| US07987755B2 |
Device for forming sleeve-like foil envelopes
A device for forming envelopes from a continuous flat strip of a sleeve-like foil material, comprising a supply member, a cutting member for making a cut over the full width of the material so as to provide individual envelopes, and a discharge member for discharging the envelopes. The cutting member comprises at least two cutting elements movable relative to the strip of material, each cutting element comprising at least one cutting blade extending parallel to the width of the strip, such that the individual cutting blades form several partial cuts contiguous to each other in the foil material over the width thereof in successive cutting operations. |
| US07987753B2 |
Apparatus and method for cutting injection molded product
A cutting machine is configured for cutting an injection molded original product. The injection molded original product has a component and stub bar connected to the component. The cutting machine includes a base portion, a supporting arm attached to the base portion, and a cutting device coupled to the supporting arm. The cutting device includes an electrothermal cutting line for cutting the component off the stub bar. |
| US07987744B2 |
Hand grip operating means for an insulation-stripping tool
A pliers-type gripping tool includes a pair of gripping jaws, a pair of pivotally connected hand grip levers for operating the gripping jaws between an open separated condition and a closed gripping condition, and an adjusting device for varying one of the physical operating properties of the tool. In one embodiment, the hand grip levers are sectional, and the adjusting device includes an angle setting arrangement for determining the angular relationship of the sections, thereby to permit use of the tool to engage an object at a relatively inaccessible location. In a second embodiment, at least one of the levers includes a metal lever body member partially enclosed by a synthetic plastic shell member. An adjusting device controls the lateral relative positions of the lever body and shell members to adjust the effective thickness of the hand grips to correspond with the size of the hand of the user. |
| US07987741B2 |
Auxiliary range transmission
In an auxiliary range transmission comprising a main group having a main transmission shaft and two main countershafts capable of rotating in relation to two auxiliary countershafts of a range or an auxiliary transmission group, a gearshift element is provided, which, in a first position, rotationally engages a loose gear of the main group and, in a second position, rotationally locks a loose gear of the range or auxiliary group with the main shaft. In an alternative embodiment, a splitter group may also be arranged in front of the main group in place of the range or auxiliary transmission group. |
| US07987740B2 |
Multi-speed transmission with countershaft gearing arrangement
A transmission includes an input member, an output member, a first and second interconnecting member, a plurality of countershafts, a reverse member, a plurality of co-planar gear sets, and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include synchronizer assemblies and a dual clutch assembly. The transmission is operable to provide at least one reverse speed ratio and a plurality of forward speed ratios between the input member and the output member. |
| US07987735B2 |
Correlating push force and stalk vibration to a plant'S susceptibility to root lodging
The present device enables measurement of the susceptibility of corn plants to root lodging. The device is used to push over a corn stalk and the force used to push over the stalk, and the vibration of the stalk caused by the push are recorded. As material breaks in the stalk, an accelerometer, measures stalk vibration response to the breaking events; the data is then recorded to allow quantitative measurements of the susceptibility of corn plants to root lodging. This allows meaningful comparisons of various hybrids at early stages of hybrid evaluation and advancement. |
| US07987734B2 |
Torque sensor
A torque sensor (50) detects an input torque input into a torsion bar (51) using a magnetic force generating part (60), a rotating magnetic circuit (69), a fixed magnetic circuit (90), and a magnetic sensor (98). The rotating magnetic circuit (69) comprises a first soft magnetic member (70) and a second soft magnetic member (80), each of which comprises a magnetic ring (73, 83), a magnetic tip (71, 81) facing the magnetic force generating part (60), and a magnetic column (72, 82) connecting the tip (71, 81) and the ring (73, 83). By disposing the first soft magnetic member (70) and the second soft magnetic ring (80) so as to face each other, the soft magnetic rings (70, 80) are formed in an identical shape that can be manufactured by press-working a plate material, thereby realizing a compact and lightweight torque sensor (50). |
| US07987733B2 |
Determination of density for metering a fluid flow
Systems and methods are disclosed for measuring densities and flow rates of gas-liquid fluid mixtures. In the systems and methods, the fluid mixture is caused to exhibit swirling flow as it flows through a conduit that includes a constriction, a first pressure difference is measured between two vertically-spaced measurement positions in the conduit, a second pressure difference is measured between two horizontally-spaced measurement positions in the conduit, the first horizontally-spaced measurement position being at the constriction region and the second horizontally-spaced measurement position being upstream or downstream of the constriction region, and one or more of the pressure differences is used to determine a density or a flow rate of the gas-liquid fluid mixture. |
| US07987729B2 |
Attachable member, attaching mechanism, and printer
An ink cartridge, which is releasably installed to a cartridge-installing section, includes a contact section which is brought into contact with the cartridge-installing section when the ink cartridge is installed to the cartridge-installing section, a stress light-emitting section which is provided with the contact section and which emits light by receiving a force when the contact section is brought into contact with the cartridge-installing section, and a light-receiving sensor which receives the light emitted by the stress light-emitting section and which generates a detection signal to indicate detection that the ink cartridge is installed. Accordingly, an attaching mechanism is provided, which is capable of detecting whether or not the ink cartridge is installed appropriately. |
| US07987728B2 |
Piezoceramic-based smart aggregate for unified performance monitoring of concrete structures
A system for monitoring the health of a structure, e.g., a concrete wall, bridge, pillars, using a smart aggregate is disclosed. The smart aggregate includes a piezoceramic transducer(s) and associated communication links. The transducer is embedded into the structure prior to the manufacture of the structure. The disclosed system can monitor internal stresses, cracks and other physical forces in the structures during the structures' life. The system is capable of providing an early indication of the health of the structure before a failure of the structure can occur. |
| US07987727B2 |
Semiconductor pressure sensor and fabrication method thereof
A semiconductor pressure sensor is provided that includes a diaphragm, a resistive element arranged at an upper portion of the diaphragm, an insulating film arranged on an upper face of the resistive element and an upper face of the diaphragm, a via that penetrates through a portion of the insulating film and comes into contact with the resistive element, and wiring that is electrically connected to the resistive element through the via. The insulating film includes a concave portion having a bottom face that is substantially flat. The wiring is arranged on the bottom face of the concave portion, and the depth of the concave portion is substantially equal to the thickness of the wiring. |
| US07987726B2 |
Method and apparatus for diagnosis of liquid losses in pressure measuring transducers filled with pressure transmitting liquids
A method and apparatus for diagnosis of liquid losses in pressure measuring transducers including a pressure sensor arranged in a pressure measuring chamber, and a pressure transfer structure connected to the pressure measuring chamber A sealed inner space of a separating diaphragm is composed of the inner spaces of the pressure transfer structure and the pressure measuring chamber and is filled with a pressure transmitting liquid, which, serves for transmitting pressure acting on the separating diaphragm to the pressure sensor. An apparatus for detecting liquid losses. The apparatus for detecting liquid losses includes a test element arranged in the sealed inner space. The outer volume of the test element is reducible for diagnosis of liquid losses. An evaluating unit, which serves, during diagnosis, for registering, as a function of a volume reduction of the test element, a pressure measured by the pressure sensor, and, on the basis of this pressure measured as a function of the volume reduction, for detecting whether liquid has escaped. |
| US07987723B2 |
Copying apparatus
There is provided a copying apparatus that copies a workpiece, includes a shoe that is brought into contact with the workpiece, an air cylinder that enables moving the shoe in a vertical direction, a clamping mechanism that grasps the workpiece from side surfaces placed in a direction orthogonal to a traveling direction and, and a lateral translatory slide guide that slides the clamping mechanism in the direction. |
| US07987722B2 |
Ultrasonic air and fluid detector
An ultrasonic sensor for detecting the presence of air or liquid uses flex circuits for connecting the ceramic element to the driver circuitry. The sensor provides improved transmission of ultrasonic signals between the ceramic element and the adjacent material, providing greater flexibility in using the sensor. |
| US07987721B2 |
Method and device for determining defects in a turbine blade
The invention relates to a method and a measuring and evaluation device for determining defects in a turbine blade and to a fixing device for fixing a probe to a turbine blade surface. |
| US07987719B2 |
Device for the ultrasound testing of hot rolling material
The invention relates to a device for the ultrasound testing of hot rolling material during the rolling procedure in one of a plurality of rolling stands in a rolling train which are arranged one behind the other, comprising at least two rolls which leave a roll gap between them, there being associated with the rolls ultrasound testing heads which are arranged such that parts of the roll body itself serve as the path along which the ultrasound waves pass on their way to the rolling material to be tested in the roll gap, which is characterised in that the rolls provided with the ultrasound testing heads are adjustable, have a straight transverse profile and a diameter which is a multiple of the width of the roll gap, with the result that a large rolling angle (α) is provided, and these rolls are arranged in one of the first rolling stands of the rolling train. |
| US07987714B2 |
Disc resonator gyroscope with improved frequency coincidence and method of manufacture
A disc resonator gyroscope (DRG) and method of manufacture. The DRG has a surrounding pattern of bond metal having a symmetry related to the symmetry of a resonator device wafer that enables more even dissipation of heat from a resonator device wafer of the DRG during an etching operation. The metal bond frame eliminates or substantially reduces the thermal asymmetry that the resonator device wafer normally experiences when a conventional, square bond frame is used, which in turn can cause geometric asymmetry in the widths of the beams that are etched into the resonator device wafer of the DRG. |
| US07987713B2 |
Angular velocity sensor with mounting portion and cover
An angular velocity sensor includes: a package housing a vibrator to sense an angular velocity; a mounting portion mounting the package, the mounting portion having a first terminal for making a connection with the package; a second terminal for making an external connection, and a resin portion covering the first and second terminals so that a part of the first terminal and a part of the second terminal are exposed; and a cover having a joint portion made of a metal and covering the package, the cover being fixed to the mounting portion by joining the joint portion to a joint terminal made of a metal and provided to the mounting portion. |
| US07987709B2 |
Device and method for measuring the flow speed and direction of a gaseous fluid
A device for measuring the flow speed of a fluid as well as its direction and its orientation, based on a thermal-sensor measurement principle, that comprises at least three flow measurement probes each having a sensitive member and an obstacle masking a predetermined measurement area of the sensor, characterized in that the flow measurement probes are attached on carrier posts, the carrier posts defining the obstacles that form masking members for an angular sector of the flow measurement probes facing the sensitive member of the probes. |
| US07987707B2 |
Wind tunnel with a model arranged therein, particularly a model of an aircraft, for acquiring and evaluating a plurality of measuring data, as well as method
A wind tunnel with a model arranged therein, particularly a model of an aircraft, for acquiring and evaluating a plurality of measuring data, wherein the wind tunnel comprises at least one computer unit and at least one visual display terminal, particularly at least one monitor, as well as at least one sensor for acquiring the measuring data. A plurality of measuring data of the wind tunnel, particularly measuring data on flow and/or pressure conditions on the model and/or in the region of the model, which data are determinable by the at least one sensor, can be processed in real time and with consideration of geometrical data of the model by the at least one computer unit and visualized on the at least one visual display terminal during a wind tunnel measurement. |
| US07987704B2 |
Fuel system diagnostic systems and methods
A diagnostic system comprises a monitoring module and a diagnostic module. The monitoring module receives a first rail pressure measured by a high side rail pressure sensor during engine cranking at a location where fuel is pressurized by a high pressure fuel pump. The diagnostic module selectively diagnoses a fault in at least one of the high pressure fuel pump and the high side rail pressure sensor when the first rail pressure is less than a predetermined pressure and rail pressures received during a predetermined period after the first rail pressure is received are less than the predetermined pressure. |
| US07987702B2 |
Tear film osmometry
Osmolarity measurement of a sample fluid, such as tear film, is achieved by depositing an aliquot-sized sample on a sample receiving substrate. The sample fluid is placed on a sample region of the substrate. Energy is imparted to the sample fluid and energy properties of the fluid can be detected to produce a sample fluid reading that indicates osmolarity of the sample fluid. An aliquot-sized volume can comprise, for example, a volume of no more than 20 microliters (μL). The aliquot-sized sample volume can be quickly and easily obtained, even from dry eye sufferers. The imparted energy can comprise electrical, optical or thermal energy. In the case of electrical energy, the energy property of the sample fluid can comprise electrical conductivity. In the case of optical energy, the energy property can comprise fluorescence. In the case of thermal energy, the measured property can be the freezing point of the sample fluid. The substrate can be packaged into a chip, such as by using semiconductor fabrication techniques. An ex vivo osmolarity sensor system that uses the chip can detect energy from the sample region and can provide an accurate osmolarity measurement without user intervention. |
| US07987699B2 |
Pneumatic assembly for a pressure decay tester
A pneumatic assembly for a pressure decay tester of printhead integrated circuits includes a pressurized air supply. A pneumatic clamping arrangement is in fluid communication with the pressurized air supply for clamping a carrier for the printhead integrated circuits such that the carrier is in fluid communication with the printhead integrated circuits. A valve arrangement applies a predetermined pressure to the carrier. A sensing arrangement senses a static pressure in the carrier. A control system is in communication with the clamping, valve and sensing arrangements to control operation thereof and to generate a discernible signal representing said static pressure such that a decay in said static pressure can be determined. |
| US07987696B2 |
Fuel distillation property determining apparatus and method
A fuel distillation property determining apparatus for use in a multi-injection system for diesel engines. The apparatus acquires a physical quantity indicating a state of burning of fuel in the diesel engine, determines a physical quantity variation sensitivity defined by a ratio of a quantity variation that is a difference between a first value of the physical quantity, as acquired upon execution of a first one of a sequence of sub-injections, and a second value of the physical quantity, as acquired upon execution of a following one of the sub-injections, to a difference between a first quantity of fuel sprayed in the first sub-injection and a second quantity of fuel sprayed in the following sub-injection, and determine a cetane value of the fuel based on a predefined relation between the physical quantity variation sensitivity and the cetane value. This ensures the accuracy in determining the cetane value at low costs. |
| US07987691B2 |
Method and a device for the manufacturing of washers and washer for a locking system
Various embodiments include a method for the manufacturing of washers for locking, each washer having a central hole, a first side comprising a pattern of radially extending teeth and a second side comprising a pattern of radially extending cams, the method comprising forming each washer in successive operations from a washer blank strip, a washer being punched out in a final punching operation. Various embodiments include forming and providing one side of the washer with a flat surface edge zone extending radially outside the pattern of this washer side and punching out the washer with a punch acting against at least a part of said flat surface. Embodiments of the invention also relate to a device for the manufacturing of washers and a washer. |
| US07987690B2 |
Fluid conduits with integral end fittings and associated methods of manufacture and use
Fluid conduits for plumbing and other uses having integral end fittings are disclosed herein. A method of forming a fluid conduit in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure includes providing a copper tube having a first inner diameter and a first wall thickness, and heat treating an end portion of the copper tube to a predetermined hardness. The method can further include increasing the wall thickness of the end portion from the first wall thickness to a second wall thickness, and increasing the inner diameter of the end portion from the first inner diameter to a second inner diameter. The method further includes forming a circular groove in an interior surface of the end portion and positioning a seal in the circular groove. |
| US07987688B2 |
Turning knob with lock
A turning knob with a lock for an electric circuit indicating a body for receiving a barrel rotating relative to a stator. The barrel includes springs receiving a key configured while rotating to take up at least two functional retained or released positions and having at one of its ends a shank configured to be actuated by rotating the key. The body has an inner cylindrical sleeve whereon the stator is urged to be positioned, the inner sleeve having a number of identical members for positioning the stator, each positioning member of the inner sleeve matching a corresponding positioning member of the stator, so as to select the position of the stator relative to the body. |
| US07987678B2 |
Hot gas duct and duct splitter arrangement
A hot gas duct, such as a combustion casing in a gas turbine engine, includes a duct splitter held within the hot gas duct in at least three, preferably four, locations spaced around a peripheral edge of the duct splitter. At least one, preferably two, of the holding locations each comprise a generally cylindrical mounting that projects through a wall of the hot gas duct to engage an edge portion of the duct splitter by means of a slot formed in a circular face of the mounting. Mutually contacting surfaces of the slot and the duct splitter comprise hard face coatings to combat wear due to vibration and differential thermal expansion and contraction. The mountings have cooling holes that penetrate the mounting, so that coolant can flow through the mountings and into the interior of the hot gas duct to cool the mountings and the hard face coatings. |
| US07987675B2 |
Provision for rapid warming of steam piping of a power plant
A steam power plant, in which steam from a steam generator is received by a steam turbine, is provided and includes a conduit, a main steam control valve (MSCV) disposed along the conduit to admit the steam to the steam turbine when a characteristic thereof satisfies a threshold, a bypass line, coupled to the conduit between a super-heater and a valve, including a bypass line valve which is opened until the threshold is satisfied such that the bypass line removes a portion of the steam, an evacuator line, coupled to the conduit between the MSCV and the steam turbine, including an evacuator valve which is opened to regulate a thermal environment within the steam turbine during a start up thereof, and a warming line originating between the valve and the MSCV on the conduit and terminating downstream of the evacuator valve disposed along the evacuator line. |
| US07987667B2 |
GPS-activated exhaust filtration monitoring and control system
A system for removing particulates from the exhaust gas of a vehicle internal combustion engine, particularly during those times that the emission of such particulates into the atmosphere would be of greatest danger to persons in the vicinity of the vehicle, includes a valve connected to the vehicle exhaust manifold for normally directing exhaust to the atmosphere, when in the non-activated condition. The valve directs exhaust to a particulate filter, when in the activated condition. Starting of the engine activates the valve for a predetermined period of time. The valve optionally is GPS-controlled and can be disabled manually or automatically by a switch, which detects the backpressure in the exhaust system. An exhaust pressure sensor monitors the exhaust backpressure, and a circuit device responsive to the exhaust pressure maintains the valve continuously in the non-activated condition, when the exhaust backpressure reaches a predetermined level for a predetermined period of time. |
| US07987666B2 |
Cooling apparatus for exhaust gas temperature control devices
Temperature control devices have become common to cool the exhaust stream from a diesel particulate filter before release into the environment. To further cool the filtered exhaust stream and to protect the temperature control device, a duct can be used to surround the inlets of the temperature control device. The duct has a head section surrounding the inlets at one end and a base section extending from the head section with a vent at the other end. Ambient air is drawn through the vent into the duct and into the inlets of the temperature control device to further cool the filtered exhaust stream. |
| US07987665B2 |
Exhaust evacuation apparatus
An apparatus for evacuating exhaust from an exhaust pipe of a vehicle having an external turbine and an internal turbine connected to the external turbine such that when the external turbine rotates the internal turbine rotates. |
| US07987659B2 |
Twisted electric heating cables and method for manufacturing thereof
Disclosed herein is an electric heating cable which is used in an electric heating apparatus and minimizes an electromagnetic field effect. The electric heating cable is manufactured by twisting first and second electric heating strands in three axial directions. Each electric heating strand includes a core wire comprising a stranded wire of a resistor, and an insulating sheath made of fluorine resin. According to the invention, the electric heating cable is resistive to untwisting in a free state even if no adhering means is used, and is compactly twisted, so that the electric heating cable maintains a secured state and has superior flexibility, while reducing leakage flux, and the electric heating cable has a reduced outer diameter and is light, so that it is useful for a thin electric heating apparatus, and incurs a low manufacturing cost. |
| US07987656B2 |
Header height control system and apparatus
A system and apparatus for controlling height of a header of a work machine such as an agricultural windrowing machine or a harvesting machine, which includes height control cylinders jointly or individually operable for raising or lowering the opposite ends of a header to achieve a desired overall height or angle of tilt in relation to the surface of a field or pasture to be cut, and which allow the header to be raised, and lowered to the previously selected cut height, without changing the lengths of the cylinders, so as to be usable in combination with an optional header lift and/or float system. |
| US07987647B2 |
Re-roofing system and a method of installation
The present invention relates to a roof system for installation on an existing roof. The existing roof has a plurality of open web steel joists with an existing metal deck thereon. The roof system includes a plurality of deck straps, a roof deck and roofing and insulation. The plurality of deck straps are attached to the open web steel joist through the existing metal deck. The deck straps have a plurality of alternating lower portions and upper portions. The lower portions are attached to the open web steel joist. The upper portions extend upwardly of the existing metal deck. The roof deck is attached to the upper portions of the continuous deck strap. The roofing and insulation is attached to the roof deck. |
| US07987643B2 |
Mechanical connecting device for a system that is used to attach elements to a structure
A system for fastening an element, particularly made of fragile material such as glass, to a bearing structure or a framework at least at one point. At least at one fastening point, the system includes a mechanical connection device for fixing the element to a framework or bearing structure or connecting to an adjacent similar element. At least one arm at a first end is connected to a fastener mechanically connected to the element, and at a second end is connected to a joining piece. The joining piece includes a tubular envelope that contains a mechanism for adjusting degrees of freedom of the fixing or of the connection. A wall including at least one fixed or opening element can be fixed to a structure or a framework by such a mechanical connection device. |
| US07987640B2 |
Foundation for a wind turbine
Embodiments of the invention provide a foundation for a wind turbine. The foundation includes a section which is partly embedded in a concrete section and a cover which is arranged across an intersection between the embedded section and the concrete section. In that way, intrusion of water between the sections can be prevented effectively, and the lifetime of the foundation can be increased and/or the maintenance costs can be reduced. A method of making a foundation for a wind turbine and a wind turbine with the foundation are also disclosed. |
| US07987633B2 |
Construction product having a frame with multi-functional thermal break
A construction product such as a window or door includes a multi-functional thermal break. The thermal break serves to contact and support elements of the frame of the construction product. The thermal break also provides one or more additional structural functions for the construction product. |
| US07987632B2 |
Expert system for controlling plant growth in a contained environment
In a system for optimizing crop growth, vegetation is cultivated in a contained environment, such as a greenhouse, an underground cavern or other enclosed space. Imaging equipment is positioned within or about the contained environment, to acquire spatially distributed crop growth information, and environmental sensors are provided to acquire data regarding multiple environmental conditions that can affect crop development. Illumination within the contained environment, and the addition of essential nutrients and chemicals are in turn controlled in response to data acquired by the imaging apparatus and environmental sensors, by an “expert system” which is trained to analyze and evaluate crop conditions. The expert system controls the spatial and temporal lighting pattern within the contained area, and the timing and allocation of nutrients and chemicals to achieve optimized crop development. A user can access the “expert system” remotely, to assess activity within the growth chamber, and can override the “expert system”. |
| US07987623B1 |
Folding stack improvements
Adapter devices, apparatus, systems and methods of allowing a firearm to be supported by a foldable fore grip/gun handle. The fore grip gun handle can have bipod type legs that can be extendable from the handle. The fore grip handle can be just a vertical extension. The adapter can allow for the fore grip/gun handle to move from a fold back position along the bottom of the firearm so that the firearm can be easily carried, and the adapter to can allow for the handle to move down to a vertical support position beneath the firearm when the firearm is to be used. The adapter can also support a light in both a folded position and in a downwardly extended position, where light can be aimed forward, rearward to the side and/or pointed down from the firearm. The adapter can allow for a dual functioning component that can be either or both a fore grip and/or a light source. Other versions of the adapter can include a slidable thumb switch for locking a swinging plate with picatinny side rails to a main plate, and spring loaded detents for locking the swinging plate in substantially vertical orientations. Additionally, a folding rail system can be substituted for the existing picatinny rail system on firearms. The folding rail can have mounting holes for allowing the entire folding rail to be directly attached to the firearm, and have a hinge for allowing portions of the picatinny rails to pivot relative to the rest of the picatinny rails. |
| US07987620B2 |
Rotary undercutter for rail line maintenance
A railroad ballast removal system capable of removing ballast material from below a rail line. The railroad ballast removal system includes at least one rotary cutting wheel having a plurality of individually replaceable cutting attachments positioned about a perimeter of the rotary cutting wheel. Each rotary cutting wheel is attached to an articulated arm capable of adjusting the position of the rotary cutting wheel along varying axis. The articulated arm is mounted to a support structure capable of transporting the rotary cutting wheel to a portion of railway requiring maintenance of the ballast material. The railroad ballast removal system is able to operate at a spot location or in a continuous manner down a length of railroad track. The ability to manipulate the rotary cutting wheel along the various axis allows the rotary cutting wheel to be used for ballast removal in locations wherein adjacent railways limit cutting access. |
| US07987619B2 |
Shoe with writing surface
A shoe is provided with a writing surface so that temporary expressive indicia can be applied to the shoe. The writing surface is preferably in the form of a side surface of the shoe extending between a tread and a foot contacting surface of the shoe. The side surface is preferably formed of patent leather compatible with a dry erase marker provided as a writing implement. In a most preferred form of the invention, the shoe includes a bore which acts as a housing for the marker or other writing implement to conveniently store the writing implement when not in use. The bore or other housing also keeps the writing implement fresh by sealing the writing implement within the bore when not in use, especially when the writing implement is a dry erase marker. |
| US07987616B2 |
Laundry machine
The present invention relates to a laundry machine. The laundry machine includes a drum rotatably mounted in a cabinet, a hot air heater to heat air and supply hot air into the drum, a steam generator to supply steam into the drum, a water supply source detachably mounted in the cabinet to supply water into the steam generator, and a water leakage preventing unit to prevent water leakage when the water supply source is detachably mounted. |
| US07987615B2 |
Exhaust structure for clothes dryer in apartment building
The present invention relates to an exhaust structure for a clothes dryer in an apartment building. The exhaust structure includes at least one riser pipe mounted in a vertical direction crossing every floor of a building, a plurality of branch pipes branched from the riser pipe to a household in the every floor to guide exhaust gas from the household to the riser pipe, a lint filter provided in each of the plurality of branch pipes to filter lint included in the exhaust gas, a first pressure sensor provided in front of the lint filter to sense a pressure in each of the plurality of branch pipes, and a filter controller to determine whether the lint filter is blocked, by receiving a value of the pressure sensed by the first pressure sensor. |
| US07987613B2 |
Control system for particulate material drying apparatus and process
A control system for controlling the utilization of heated waste streams for fluidizing particulate matter such as coal in a fluidizing bed dryer. The control system includes a number of graphic user interfaces that allow an operator to more easily monitor and/or control the various regulator devices. The control system controls coal handling or transportation, fluid handling or flow, and the discharge of discarded or separated coal from the dryer. |
| US07987606B2 |
System for testing accuracy of electronic compass
A system for testing the accuracy of an electronic compass is disclosed. The system includes a circular track, a compass seat, an electromagnetic element, a driver, a power source, a calculator, and a magnetic shielding chamber. The electromagnetic element is disposed on the circular track and powered by the power source to generate a magnetic field. The electronic compass is installed on the compass seat and surrounded by the circular track. As such, the electronic compass can measure the magnetic field of the electromagnetic element and calculate direction relative to the electromagnetic element at different points of the circular track when the electromagnetic element is driven by the driver to move along the circular track. The magnetic shielding chamber is for shielding the electromagnetic element and the electronic compass from interference of external magnetic fields. |
| US07987604B2 |
Jig for use in cutting synthetic shingles and tiles
A jig is provided for use in cutting synthetic shingles or tiles, as comprising a table and a clamping bar, with fasteners securing the clamping bar to the table for clamping a shingle or tile between the table and the bar, with the bar being used as a guide for sliding a cutting tool therealong, at any of an infinite number of angles, for making an infinite number of angled cuts to the shingle or tile. The table may be constructed having a base with a frame, and a removable and replaceable insert. |
| US07987601B2 |
Folding tool
The folding tool has one side-plate (1a) and the other side-plate (1b). A part of the rear side of the other side-plate (1b) or an arm-like plate (2) attached as a separate body is used as an inwardly pressing member, and a projection (3) is provided at the head of the arm-like plate (2). The base end of the body (5) having at its end a rear recess (6) is foldably pivotally attached by means of a support shaft (4) to the base ends of both the one side-plate and the other side-plate. The projection (3) and the recess (6) of the body (5) are engaged with and locked to each other. |
| US07987599B2 |
Retention of ball bearing cartridge for turbomachinery
An exemplary method for limiting movement of an outer race of a bearing cartridge includes positioning the bearing cartridge in a substantially cylindrical bore having a longitudinal axis, an inner diameter exceeding an outer diameter of the outer race, a proximate end and a distal end; limiting axial movement of the outer race at the distal end of the cylindrical bore with a counterbore substantially coaxial to the cylindrical bore and having an inner diameter less than the outer diameter of the outer race; limiting axial movement of the outer race at the proximate end of the cylindrical bore with a plate positioned substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis; and limiting rotation of the outer race with a pin positioned in a pin opening accessible via a lubricant drain. Various exemplary bearing cartridges, housings, assemblies, etc., are also disclosed. |
| US07987598B2 |
Dynamic bearing manufacturing method
A dynamic bearing manufacturing includes steps of: providing a bearing and a processing tool, the bearing having an axial hole, and the processing tool having at least one protruding pattern formed on an exterior wall of the processing tool; positioning the processing tool into the axial hole of the bearing; pressing the processing tool to contact with an inner wall of the bearing so as to transfer and print the protruding pattern of the processing tool onto the inner wall of the bearing; rotating the processing tool at a first rotation speed and driving the bearing to rotate at a second rotation speed; and forming at least one concave pattern on the inner wall of the bearing, and the at least one concave pattern being corresponding to the protruding pattern of the processing tool. |
| US07987591B2 |
Method of forming silicon chicklet pedestal
A silicon chicklet pedestal for use in a wafer-level test probe of a wafer is provided and includes a main body, first and second opposing faces, and an array of vias formed through the main body to extend between the first and second faces, through which pairs of leads, respectively associated with each via at the first and second faces, are electrically connectable to one another. |
| US07987590B2 |
Method for manufacturing an electronic part
An insulating sheet including resin is attached to a conductor portion composed of a wiring pattern and a columnar conductor from above. Then pressure and heat are applied to the insulating sheet using the columnar conductor as a stopper to form a layer of resin having a uniform thickness with the height of the columnar conductor being a reference to cover the conductor portion. In such method for manufacturing an electronic part, a projecting portion is formed outside a part formation area. In this substrate sheet, the amount of the resin required for forming the layer is computed based on the proportion of the volume taken up by the conductor portion in a domain including the projecting portion, and the thickness of the insulating sheet is set in accordance with the computed resin amount. |
| US07987589B2 |
Multilayer three-dimensional circuit structure and manufacturing method thereof
A multilayer three-dimensional circuit structure and a manufacturing method thereof are provided in the present invention. The manufacturing method includes following steps. First, a three-dimensional insulating structure is provided. A first three-dimensional circuit structure is then formed on a surface of the three-dimensional insulating structure. Next, an insulating layer covering the first three-dimensional circuit structure is formed. Thereafter, a second three-dimensional circuit structure is formed on the insulating layer. Subsequently, at least a conductive via penetrating the insulating layer is formed for electrically connecting the second three-dimensional circuit structure and the first three-dimensional circuit structure. |
| US07987588B2 |
Interposer for connecting plurality of chips and method for manufacturing the same
The invention discloses an interposer used for connecting a plurality of chips. The interposer includes a connective substrate and at least a through via disposed in the connective substrate. The connective substrate has a first surface and a second surface. The through via acts as a connector, and is electrically connected to the first surface and the second surface. The first surface and the second surface are electrically connected to at least a first chip and a second chip respectively. In addition, the first chip and the second chip are electrically connected by the through via. |
| US07987585B1 |
System for assembling a disk drive using a robotic end effector
A robotic tool for assembling a portion of a disk drive includes a movable end effector that includes a first portion and a second portion that is movable relative to the first portion. The first portion may be configured to engage the actuator assembly and the second portion may be configured to engage the flex circuit connector. A controller may be provided to control the movable end effector, causing the end effector to pick up the head stack assembly in a first configuration, move the second portion of the end effector relative to the first portion thereof so as to articulate the head stack assembly into a second configuration that is different than the first configuration, and place the head stack assembly into the base. |
| US07987583B2 |
Magnetic head slider testing apparatus and magnetic head slider testing method
A step portion for mounting a row bar is provided at a table stepping down from the face of the table, and by lowering a pair of hooks crossing over the step portion in its width direction, a row bar held by the hooks is mounted on the step portion. While interposing the row bar mounted on the step portion between a pair of hooks and a side face of the step portion, the side in longitudinal direction of the row bar and the bottom face thereof are butted to the bottom face and the standing up side face of the step portion to position two axes of the row bar among XYZ directions, successively, positioning of the row bar in one remaining direction along longitudinal direction of the row bar mounted on the step portion is performed by moving the table in the one remaining axial direction. |
| US07987577B2 |
Method for providing an oblong shaped piece and for inserting said shaped piece into a hollow section bar from which a spacer for insulated glass panes is formed
A method for providing a molded body and for inserting said molded body into a hollow bar section with a cross-section of a predetermined width and height that remains constant over its length, from which a frame-type spacer for insulating glass panes is subsequently configured, the molded body bridging a gap in said spacer. According to said method, a strand-type semi-finished product with a cross-section that remains constant over its length is provided; the semi-finished product is positioned in relation to a separation tool in such a way that a predefined section of the semi-finished product lies on one side and the remaining section of the semi-finished product lies on the other side of a separation plane of the separation tool and the length of the predefined section that is measured in the longitudinal direction of the semi-finished product is adapted to the inner width of the hollow bar section. |
| US07987570B2 |
Adjustable apparatus for removing wires from underground conduit
An apparatus for removing wires and cables through underground conduits that overcomes the disadvantages of previous wire pulling devices and is simple in design, easy to use, and easy to transport. Such an apparatus comprises a base frame, an upper pulley, a lower pulley, and an adjustable frame to adjust the height of the pulleys relative to the ground. In addition, the lower pulley can also function as a wheel for transporting the apparatus. |
| US07987569B2 |
Method of surface densification of a powder metal component
A high performance main bearing cap has particular surfaces densified for improved fatigue crack resistance. The surfaces densified are the bolted face inside of a perimetral margin and outside of bolt head interface areas around the main bolt holes, the surfaces of the main bolt holes and the side bolt hole threads. Preferred methods of densification are single needle programmable pattern peening of the bolted face peened area, over-burnishing of the bolt holes, and forming the threads rather than cutting them for the side bolt threads. |
| US07987563B2 |
Zipper cord
A load-securing device having (a) a rope having a first end and second end; (b) multiple hooks, wherein the hook has a first end and a second end, the first end of the hook forms a loop around the rope where the hook can slide along the rope but cannot be removed from the rope, the second end of the hook forms a C-shape; and (c) a first stopper attached to the first end of the rope and a second stopper attached to the second end of the rope, the stoppers being effective to prevent the hooks from sliding off the rope. |
| US07987560B2 |
Hinge assembly
A hinge assembly includes a pivot shaft, a first supporting member, a second supporting member, a first positioning piece, and a second positioning piece. The first supporting member and the second supporting member are sleeved on the pivot shaft. One of the first supporting member and the second supporting member is non-rotatably connected to the pivot shaft. The first positioning piece and the second positioning piece are sleeved on the pivot shaft, and adjacent to each other. The first positioning piece defines a plurality of positioning protrusions. The second positioning piece defines a plurality of positioning holes for receiving the positioning protrusions. The second positioning piece is elastic. When the first supporting member rotates relative to second supporting member, the second positioning piece deforms. |
| US07987557B2 |
Enclosed hinge device with a readily center-aligned mechanism
The present invention discloses an enclosed hinge device with a readily center-aligned mechanism, employing two protruded blocks of a locking retainer engaged into and fastened with two notch grooves of an arresting part to form two positioning points, such that the locking retainer and the arresting part are not slidable therebetween along with the advantage of easy assembly. Further, the securingly connection between the enclosing part, the arresting part, and the locking retainer also enhances the structural strength, thereby reducing the rotational shaking of the pivotal axle. |
| US07987556B2 |
Hinge and interference apparatus for the same
A hinge includes a first bracket, a second bracket, a shaft, and first and second interference elements. The shaft is fixed to the first bracket. The second bracket rotationally fit about the shaft. The first interference element is rotationally mounted on the shaft and fixed to the second bracket, and defines two unleveled surfaces at one side. The second interference element is immovably mounted on the shaft beside the first interference element, and defines two unleveled surfaces at one side facing and corresponding to the unleveled surfaces of the first interference element. |
| US07987553B2 |
Caster with a brake structure
A caster with a brake structure comprises a pivot plate. The pivot plate is allowed to pivot so as to be inserted into a corresponding positioning recess in an inner side of a wheel to stop the rotation of the wheel. Furthermore, while pivoting, the pivot plate will press the lifting block to move downwards, and then the lifting block will push the slide block to move horizontally, and finally the slide block will push the anti-slip block to press against the inner side of the wheel, thus improving the braking effect. |
| US07987550B2 |
Method of determining the degree of filling of the dust collector of a vacuum cleaner and filling indicator
In order to measure the degree of filling of a dust collector (5), where the dust (15, 16) collected in the dust collector may be of a very varied composition ranging from very fine dust (15) to rather large particles (16), a high pressure difference and a low pressure difference are measured by two differential pressure meters (11, 12), where the one differential pressure meter (12) measures the pressure difference between the compartment (4) of the dust collector, in which the dust collector (5) is arranged, and a measurement position at the connecting stub (6) of the vacuum cleaner, as is known, while the other differential pressure meter (11) measures between two measurement positions inside the connecting stub (6). Hereby, the method and the filling indicator according to the invention will ensure that larger particles do not settle inside the connecting stub (6) since these are detected beforehand by the differential pressure meter (11) which records lower pressure differences that the differential pressure meter (12). |
| US07987549B2 |
Vacuum cleaner with a massage head
The invention relates to a vacuum cleaner with a golf massage club, including a handle (4), a cleaner body (3) connected to the first end of the handle (4), and a suction head (1) connected to the head of the cleaner body (3), wherein a golf massage head (5) is connected to the second end of the handle (4). With the vacuum cleaner of the invention, the user can use the handle for human body massage when the vacuum cleaner is not in use. The vacuum cleaner of the invention is of compact structure and multiple functions. |
| US07987547B2 |
Cleansing pad
A cleansing pad (10) is made of a web of fibers, forming a substrate (11), where the substrate (11) includes a cleansing agent (12) therein. The cleansing agent (12) is a pourable soap. In making the cleansing pad (10), the cleansing agent (12) is initially heated from solid form into molten/liquid form, and distributed essentially throughout one or more portions of the substrate (11) in molten form to coat the fibers in said portions of the substrate (11). After application of the molten cleansing agent (12), the substrate (11) is then allowed to cool such that the molten cleansing agent (12) solidifies and remains solid at a desired range at and above room temperature, forming the cleansing pad (10). Thereafter, in use, the cleansing pad (10) is applied for cleaning an object in conjunction with a solvent such as water. The solvent dissolves the solidified cleansing agent (12). The cleansing pad (10) can be used in this manner multiple times without the need for application of additional cleansing agent (12) to the cleansing pad (10). As such, the cleansing pad (10) is a self-contained, long lasting product that maintains its creamy lather during multiple uses and does not require the user to reapply cleansing agents to the cleansing pad (10) with every use. |
| US07987543B2 |
Working method and cleaning device to clean a swimming pool
In a working method for a cleaning device (2) that moves back and forth in a swimming pool (1), control thereof is such that the cleaning device (2) moves from a starting position at a low speed in a forward direction V in a first pass in a first cleaning path (4) until it runs up to a pool wall (3), wherein the distance D1 traversed along the first cleaning path is measured or determined. The cleaning device (2) is then guided to a second cleaning path (5) deviating from or offset relative to the first cleaning path (4) in a second pass, initially at a low speed, whereupon the cleaning device then moves in a backward direction along the second cleaning path (5) at a high speed until the distance Dz traversed is smaller than the distance D1 traversed in the previous pass by an amount A. Upon reaching distance Dz the cleaning device (2) continues to move along the second cleaning path (5) at low speed until it runs up to a swimming pool wall (3), wherein the distance D2 traversed along the second cleaning path is measured or determined. The cleaning device (2) is controlled in the same manner in each subsequent pass as in the previous pass. |
| US07987542B2 |
Automatic swimming pool cleaners and bodies, feet, discs, and other components thereof
Devices for cleaning vessels, especially swimming pools, are discussed. The devices may include repositionable in-line valves, with the valves typically moving laterally (from side to side) and changing the initial direction of the main fluid-flow path through the valves and corresponding cleaner bodies. Asymmetric feet may be utilized as part of the devices, whose bottom bearing surfaces may include elongated strips of material placed parallel to the normally-forward direction of travel of the devices. Discs of non-uniform flexibility also may be employed, and blocking tabs or gripping material may be used to inhibit undesired backward movement of a cleaner when its operation commences. |
| US07987541B2 |
Steam washing method for washing machine and washing machine with the same
The present invention relates to a method of a washing machine having a tub (21) for holding washing water, a drum (31) rotatably mounted in the tub (21), and a stem generator (51) for generating and supplying steam to the tub (21), for washing laundry with steam, and a washing machine thereof. The method includes a washing water supply step (S 10) for supplying washing water to the tub (21), a steam supply step (S80) for supplying the steam to the tub (21), and a main washing step (S110) for washing the laundry. |
| US07987538B1 |
Bed support system and method
A bed support system may include first and second rails each including at least two legs connected at a top thereof by a handle. A first adjustable strap and a spaced apart second adjustable strap may be placed around the legs of the first and second rails. A method of installing a bed support system on a bed on a ground may include: positioning a first adjustable strap around first and second rails so that the first strap anchors around legs of the first and second rails; positioning a bed frame over the first strap to aid in anchoring the first strap to the first and second rails; positioning a box spring onto the bed frame; and positioning a second adjustable strap over the box spring and around the first and second rails so that the second strap anchors around the legs of the first and second rails. |
| US07987534B2 |
Shower curtain rod
A shower curtain rod is a multiple-sectional rod composed of two supporting rods and at least one extension rod pivotally connected between the two supporting rods to allow shower curtain sleeving and suspending thereon. Distal ends of the two supporting rods rotatably combine with pivotal hinge assemblies to mount on the walls respectively. Thus, the extension rod is driven to different orientations by pushing and rotating one of the two supporting rods to selectively bend the shower curtain rod inward or outward to make the shower space variable with maximum benefit. |
| US07987532B2 |
Retractable shower expander assembly
A shower curtain support system consists of a support guide member having a center portion, two opposing ends, two holders, and an attached shower curtain. The two holders are fixedly attached to the two opposing end walls of a shower stall or tub enclosure, and are usably adjoined, one on each end, to the support guide member. Each holder consists of a roller bracket having rollers and spacers attached to the roller bracket. The rollers communicate with the longitudinal slots on each of the two opposing ends of the support guide member. The support guide member is movable between a first extended position wherein the support guide member, with an attached shower curtain, is extended out at the top creating a maximum amount of space inside the shower stall or tub enclosure. In the second position the support guide member is retracted within the space defining the shower stall or tub enclosure. |
| US07987529B1 |
Method and apparatus for defecation and urination
An apparatus for discharging bodily wastes has a receptacle for holding a person's bodily waste products, including an upwardly facing opening for receiving the waste products. A forward load-bearing member extends from the receptacle to provide a support for at least one foot of a person discharging waste products into the receptacle. A rear load-bearing member arranged to engage the lower torso of the person above the buttocks when the person has at least one foot in the forward load-bearing member. The rear load-bearing member and the forward load bearing member are spaced apart a distance that is sufficient to hold a person therebetween with the person's buttocks suspended over the opening of the receptacle and the person's center of gravity behind the one foot supported in the forward load bearing member. |
| US07987528B1 |
Pedal operated device
A linkage for moving a hinged member from a first position to a second position. The hinged member may be a toilet seat, the lid of a toilet seat, or any other hinged member. The linkage is provided with first and second pedals where the first pedal moves the seat from the first (or lowered) position to a second (or raised) position. The second pedal moves the seat from the second position to the first position. The linkage is preferably provided with a biasing member to assist the seat in moving from the first position to the second position and acts as a dampening mechanism when the seat is moved from the second position to the first position. |
| US07987523B2 |
Quick release garment
A quick release garment such as a vest including a quick release system for easy removal by a wearer in an emergency situation wherein activation of the quick release system releases the vest from one side only disconnecting one shoulder strap, at least one belt end portion and at least one cummerbund end portion, if a cummerbund is present. Components of the vest remain attached together so that the wearer may easily retrieve the garment, once removed, and easily reposition and reconnect the garment for movement to another location. The present garment can also be configured such that the quick release system releases only one shoulder strap, a shoulder strap and one or both belt end portions, a shoulder strap and one or both cummerbund end portions, and other combinations. |
| US07987522B2 |
Systems and methods for providing modular camouflage
Systems and methods for retaining camouflage material from the natural surrounding of a user. A device includes a retaining mechanism and at least two coupling mechanisms for attaching the device to the clothing, or person, of the user. Alternatively, the device includes elastomeric banding to attach a device to the user. The device includes a backing plate to provide tension across the retaining mechanism. The user immobilizes the camouflage material by inserting the camouflage material between the retaining mechanism and the clothing, apparel or person of the user. |