| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08017025B2 |
Method for producing air gaps using nanotubes
A target layer comprising at least one degradable material is deposited on a support. Nanotubes are then formed on the degradable material of the target layer before deposition of an insulating layer is performed. Degradation of the degradable material and elimination of degradation sub-products are then performed by means of the nanotubes passing through the insulating layer thus forming air gaps in the target layer. |
| US08017024B2 |
Method for continual preparation of polycrystalline silicon using a fluidized bed reactor
There is provided a method for continual preparation of granular polycrystalline silicon using a fluidized bed reactor, enabling a stable, long-term operation of the reactor by effective removal of silicon deposit accumulated on the inner wall of the reactor tube. The method comprises (i) a silicon particle preparation step, wherein silicon deposition occurs on the surface of the silicon particles, while silicon deposit is accumulated on the inner wall of the reactor tube encompassing the reaction zone; (ii) a silicon particle partial discharging step, wherein a part of the silicon particles remaining inside the reactor tube is discharged out of the fluidized bed reactor so that the height of the bed of the silicon particles does not exceed the height of the reaction gas outlet; and (iii) a silicon deposit removal step, wherein the silicon deposit is removed by supplying an etching gas into the reaction zone. |
| US08017021B1 |
Sludge processing apparatus and method
Material to be processed, such as sludge, is deposited into the trough having an auger operating at a rotational speed and direction so as to force the material received within the trough upstream against a rigid surface for breaking up the sludge. A cutting fluid is added to the trough for diluting the sludge and enhancing a flow of the broken up sludge downstream under a force of gravity, allowing the sludge to enter a chopper, where it is chopped to a desired consistency before being pumped to a desired location. The diluted sludge may be filtered prior to chopping. A hopper and cutter may be used to receive the unprocessed sludge for cutting prior to being deposited into the trough. As a result, sludge in ranges from soft to hard states is converted to a fluid form capable of being pumped. |
| US08017019B2 |
Fluidized bed precipitator with optimized solids settling and solids handling features for use in recovering phosphorus from wastewater
Improved fluidized bed precipitators (20, 46, 62, 74, 108, 112, 134, 168) especially useful for the treatment of waste waters containing soluble phosphorus are provided, having upright, primary fluidized bed sections (22, 48, 64, 76, 110, 114, 136) and obliquely oriented solids settling sections (28, 54, 68, 120, 144) which enhance the settling of small particles (166) and return thereof to the fluidized bed sections (22, 48, 64, 76, 110, 114, 136). The precipitators (20, 46, 62, 74, 108, 112, 134, 168) may also be equipped with a solids detection/withdrawal assembly (178) made up of one or more pressure transducers (180, 182) operable to determine the pressures within the fluidized bed sections 22, 48, 64, 76, 110, 114, 136) as a measure of bed densities, along with a selectively operable valve (172) which may be opened to periodically remove solids without clogging. The precipitators (20, 46, 62, 74, 108, 112, 134, 168) may be used to control soluble phosphorus levels in single- or multiple lagoon (184, 186) waste water systems. |
| US08017018B2 |
Phosphorus removal method
A phosphorus removal system is operable to remove phosphorus from an influent. The system includes a first section receiving the influent and discharging a first flow. A first coagulant inlet is positioned upstream of the first section and is in fluid communication with the influent to introduce a first coagulant selected to precipitate phosphorus. A second section receives the first flow and discharges a second flow, and a third section receives the second flow and discharges an effluent. A second coagulant inlet is positioned downstream of the first section and upstream of the third section to introduce a second coagulant selected to precipitate phosphorus. |
| US08017017B2 |
Method for producing a target substance using a simulated moving bed chromatography separation system
Disclosed is a method for producing a target substance by separating it from a mixture using a simulated moving bed chromatography (SMBC) separation system, which can minimize decreases in separation performance due to interference from a liquid accumulation portion. A material, in which the target substance in the material can be separated using a first SMBC separation system that meets a first condition, is processed to separate and produce the target substance from the material using a second SMBC separation system that meets a second condition, wherein the particle size of a separating agent and fill length of a column tube are both greater, the pressure loss by the column is substantially the same, and the volume ratio of liquid accumulation portions in the endless flow passage of the SMBC separation system is lower. |
| US08017016B2 |
Method and apparatus for pervaporation control in chromatographic systems
A method for controlling pervaporation through a membrane includes assessing the vapor pressure of each component material of a mobile phase disposed on a retentate side of the membrane, and maintaining a designed environment on a permeate side of the membrane. The environment maintained on the permeate side of the membrane contains partial pressures of selected component materials of the mobile phase at a level substantially equal to or greater than the respective vapor pressures thereof. |
| US08017011B2 |
Pleated single phase filter coalescer element and method
A filter coalescer element for oil based industrial fuels includes a rigid, porous support tube, and a hydrophobic drainage layer covering the outer surface of the same. A single phase, dual function combination water coalescer and particle filter pleat block is positioned in the support tube, and is formed from a multilayer material having a first porous support layer, a synthetic microfiber layer, a synthetic fiber media layer and a second porous support layer. As the fluid passes through the pleat block, solid particles are physically filtered therefrom, and water is coalesced into droplets which pass from the pleats directly through the support tube and directly into the drainage layer, where the droplets grow into a size sufficient that they fall under gravity to the bottom of the element for collection. |
| US08017008B2 |
Water purification filter assembly
Disclosed herein is a filter assembly for water purifiers. The filter assembly includes a head having an inlet duct, a control valve, and an outlet duct. A circular cap is provided on the lower portion of the head, and has cylindrical space. A filter cap is mounted to the circular cap. A filter cartridge has a filtering part which is provided with a filter to purify water. A plurality of fastening holes is formed in the outer circumference of the circular cap, and has a step. Locking parts are disposed in the fastening holes to lock the filter cartridge. An elastic member surrounds the circular cap and the outer surfaces of the supports parts, thus elastically supporting the locking parts to the fastening holes. The filter cap has on the outer circumference of the upper portion thereof a plurality of fastening holes into which the locking parts are fitted. |
| US08017006B2 |
Storm water filtration apparatus
A storm water filtration apparatus, at the curb inlet for a storm drain, which prevents debris and pollutants from entering the storm drain system. Water passes through the filter at an upward angle. The filter does not require replacing for maintenance, and it continues to allow water to flow into the storm drain system even when the filter is full of trash, leaves, debris, and/or other pollutants. |
| US08017000B2 |
Process for the conversion of heavy feedstocks such as heavy crude oils and distillation residues
Process for the conversion of heavy feedstocks selected from heavy crude oils, distillation residues, heavy oils coming from catalytic treatment, thermal tars, oil sand bitumens, various kinds of coals and other high-boiling feedstocks of a hydrocarbon origin known as black oils, by the combined use of the following three process units: hydroconversion with catalysts in slurry phase (HT), distillation or flash (D), and deasphalting (SDA). |
| US08016997B2 |
Method for determination of analyte concentrations and related apparatus
A method is provided for determining analyte concentrations, for example glucose concentrations, that utilizes a dynamic determination of the appropriate time for making a glucose measurement, for example when a current versus time curve substantially conforms to a Cottrell decay, or when the current is established in a plateau region. Dynamic determination of the time to take the measurement allows each strip to operate in the shortest appropriate time frame, thereby avoiding using an average measurement time that may be longer than necessary for some strips and too short for others. |
| US08016994B2 |
Electrodipping device
The invention relates to an electrodipping device comprising, in a known manner, a bath of enamel, and a transport device used, during the continuous method, to dip the workpieces to be coated into the bath of enamel, to move the workpieces through the bath, and remove the same therefrom. Electrodes are arranged in the bath of enamel, along the path of displacement of the workpieces, said electrodes being connected to a voltage source with one pole thereof. The second pole of said voltage source is connected to a contact rail extending along the path of displacement of the workpieces. Each workpiece is provided with a contact device which is in contact with the contact rail. A controllable voltage regulating unit is arranged between each contact device and the corresponding workpiece. A position determination device enables the momentaneous position of each workpiece to be determined. A control system is used to apply a control signal to the corresponding voltage regulating unit in such a way as to maintain each workpiece at a desired voltage in each position of the course thereof through the bath of enamel. |
| US08016993B2 |
Electrostatic desalination and water purification
An apparatus, system and method for desalination and purification of water where fresh water is extracted from salt water, leaving behind the higher salinity salt water. Salt water is bubbled, aerated, sprayed, or otherwise agitated to cause breaking bubbles along the surface of the salt water. An electric field is applied above the surface of the salt water; fresh water droplets and vapor are released in the process of bubble rupture, pulled away from the surface of the salt water, and collected for consumption. The present invention may also be used to purify fresh water by leaving impurities behind. |
| US08016985B2 |
Magnetron sputtering apparatus and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A magnetron sputtering apparatus includes: a target provided in a sputtering chamber; a susceptor opposed to the target; a high-frequency power supply connected to the susceptor; a plate provided outside the sputtering chamber and coaxial with a central axis of the target; a rotary motion mechanism configured to rotate the plate about the central axis; S-pole magnets placed on one side of the plate with their S-pole end directed to the target; and first and second N-pole magnets placed on the one side of the plate with their N-pole end directed to the target. The first N-pole magnets are placed along a circle coaxial with the plate and opposed to an outer peripheral vicinity of the target. The S-pole magnets are placed inside the first N-pole magnets and along a circle coaxial with the plate. The second N-pole magnets are placed inside the S-pole magnets and along a circle coaxial with the plate. Magnetic flux density of the first N-pole magnets and the second N-pole magnets are higher than magnetic flux density of the S-pole magnets. |
| US08016982B2 |
Sputtering apparatus and sputtering method
The present invention is to provide a sputtering apparatus and a sputtering method, specifically, a magnetron sputtering apparatus having a magnetron electrode capable of generating plasma in a wide region near the surface of a target, and a sputtering method using the apparatus. Thereby, a magnetic field shape enabling to generate plasma in a wide region near the surface of a target is realized, the use efficiency of the target material is increased, and dusts and abnormal electric discharges may be prevented. Magnetic circuit 10 of a magnetron electrode is set as “magnetic circuit 10 in which center perpendicular magnet 101, inside parallel magnet 103, outside parallel magnet 104, and perimeter perpendicular magnet 102 are arranged” from the central part of target 2 toward the perimeter part, and inside parallel magnet 103 is brought close to target 2. |
| US08016981B2 |
Method and apparatus for purifying and separating a heavy component concentrate along with obtaining light gas isotopes
The claimed method and apparatus relate to cryogenic technology, particularly to purifying and separating by distillation a target heavy component concentrate thereby obtaining target components, e.g., krypton and xenon, and isotopes of light gases such as deuterium, tritium, helium-3. The method includes temperature-stabilizing a target heavy component concentrate flow, a low-boiling target component fraction flow, and a high-boiling target component fraction flow, irradiating the flows with ionizing radiation thereby obtaining light gas isotopes, purifying the flows, concentrating the light gas isotopes in the flows with subsequently extracting thereof, purifying the production flows from nuclides, using xenon as the high-boiling target component of the concentrate and using krypton as the low-boiling target component of the concentrate. The claimed apparatus can be used for implementing the method. The method and apparatus allow for increasing the purity and safety of the production heavy target components, as well as for increasing the economic efficiency. |
| US08016978B2 |
Method and apparatus of manufacturing a hygiene paper product
Method of manufacturing a hygiene paper product in form of a continuous paper web (W) of sheets partly separated by perforation lines (9) and wound to a log of predetermined longitudinal length, providing a continuous paper web (W), moving the continuous paper web in a direction of its longitudinal extension, providing at least one embossed pattern on the continuous paper web, providing in the area of an embossing station at least one mark (6, 7) onto the continuous paper web, which mark (6, 7) is in register to the embossed pattern, sensing the mark and controlling perforating means for registering the perforation lines (9) with the embossed pattern thereby imparting perforation lines to the continuous paper web in predetermined longitudinal distances, winding up the resulting web to logs, and cutting the log into rolls. |
| US08016977B2 |
Dry pond water evaporation system and method of evaporating water
Dry pond water evaporation systems and methods are used to evaporate large quantities of water from industrial waste water sources, such as water produced by oil and gas wells. Dry pond systems include a water evaporation system that emits waste water into the air as a fine spray or mist to promote evaporation. Water that falls to the ground and any initially dissolved solids are captured in a water capture depression. Water and solids are transferred from the water capture depression to a water collection pool. Water from the water collection pool is recirculated through the water evaporation system to further concentrate the total dissolved solids (TDS). When the TDS are sufficiently concentrated, they may be harvested, such as by evaporating off the water and recovering salts or minerals as a solid. |
| US08016974B2 |
Plasma treatment apparatus
In a plasma treatment apparatus for performing plasma treatment by accommodating a substrate in a treatment chamber, a fixed guide 12 and a movable guide 13 made of a ceramic are arrayed in an X direction (in a substrate transporting direction) for guiding both side end portions of the substrate held on a ceramic-made mounting plate 10, and both end portions of the movable guide 13 are supported by supporting members. In this construction, these supporting members are fitted to fixed members 15A and 15B arranged in a Y direction with the mounting plate 10 placed therebetween, such that an interval in the Y direction is adjustable. Consequently, the ceramic-made guide member 13 can be mounted and demounted without directly bolting it, and it is possible to prevent the generation of an abnormal discharge by using as objects multiple product thin-type substrates with different widthwise dimensions. |
| US08016972B2 |
Methods and apparatus for application of nested zero waste ear to traveling web
The present invention provides a process wherein a rotary knife or die, with one or more cutting edges, turns against and in coordination with a corresponding cylinder to create preferably trapezoidal ears. Ear material is slit into two lanes, one for a left side of a diaper and the other for a right side of a diaper. Fastening tapes are applied to both the right and the left ear webs. The ear material is then die cut with a nested pattern on a synchronized vacuum anvil. The resulting discrete ear pieces however, due to the trapezoidal pattern of the ears, alternate between a correct orientation and an incorrect (reversed) orientation. The reversed ear is required to be rotated 180° into the correct orientation such that the ears and associated tape present a left ear and a right ear on the diaper. |
| US08016970B2 |
Method for applying a pre-cured composite strip to a composite component to minimize inconsistencies appearing on a surface of the composite component
A method and apparatus for applying a pre-cured composite strip to a composite component. A pre-cured composite strip having a thermoset resin may be placed on a surface of a portion of the composite component where a caul plate seam may be expected. Caul plates may be placed on the composite component after placing the pre-cured composite strip to form the caul plate seam. The composite component may be cured after placing the caul plates on the composite component. |
| US08016969B2 |
Process for finishing a wooden board and wooden board produced by the process
A process for finishing a wood or wooden board, in particular an MDF or HDF board, with an upper side and an underside. The process includes applying a sealing layer of melamine resin to the upper side of the board and printing a decoration onto the sealing layer. A protective layer is applied of melamine resin to the decoration and the board is pressed under the action of temperature until the protective layer and the sealing layer melt and bond to each other with the inclusion of the decoration printed on. |
| US08016966B2 |
Strengthened equipment cases and methods of making same
A stackable equipment container includes at least one reinforcement panel made of a composite material attached to the container on an interior surface proximate an arrangement of stackable elements. The panel is attached to the container using spin-weld plugs installed at a high rotation rate. Through the installation of the spin-weld plugs, the panel becomes fused or welded to the container. In one embodiment, the rotation rate of the spin-weld plugs during installation is sufficient to cause the panel and container to locally vulcanize with each other and with the spin-weld plugs. The panel provides the container with increased strength and operates to minimize or eliminate distortion of the stackable elements. |
| US08016961B2 |
Gypsum wallboard and method of making same
A coalescing additive is used in the manufacturing process for gypsum wallboard. Such an additive increases the surface area and density of the slurry at the paper to core interface by coalescing the foam cells away from the paper core interface. This permits a stronger paper to core bond to form and increases the compressive strength of the gypsum wallboard as compared to standard wallboards made from slurries with reduced water levels. |
| US08016958B2 |
High strength aluminum alloy sheet and method of production of same
High strength aluminum alloy sheet having superior surface roughening and formability suitable for home electrical appliances and automobile outer panels and other structural materials and a method of production of the same are provided. High strength aluminum alloy sheet having a chemical composition containing Mg: 2.0 to 3.3 mass %, Mn: 0.1 to 0.5 mass %, and Fe: 0.2 to 1.0 mass %, having a balance of unavoidable impurities and Al, and having an Si among the unavoidable impurities of less than 0.20 mass % and having an average circle equivalent diameter of intermetallic compounds of 1 μm or less, having an area ratio of intermetallic compounds of 1.2% or more, having an average diameter of recrystallized grains of 10 μm or less, and having a tensile strength of 220 MPa or more. This is obtained by pouring an aluminum alloy melt having the above chemical composition in a twin belt caster, continuously casting a thin slab of a thickness of 6 to 15 mm at a cooling rate at a position of ¼ the slab thickness of 50 to 200° C./sec and winding it up into a coil, then cold rolling it at a cold reduction of 60 to 98%, final annealing it by a continuous annealing furnace at a heating rate of 100° C./min or more, at a holding temperature of 400 to 520° C. for a holding time of within 5 minutes. |
| US08016956B2 |
Ce-based amorphous metallic plastic
The present invention concerns a Ce-base amorphous metallic plastics being CeaAlbMc, in which 55≦a≦75, 5≦b≦25, 10≦c≦25, and a+b+c=100; said M is Co, Cu or Ni. Otherwise the metallic plastics could be CedAleCufZg, in which 55≦d≦75, 5≦e≦15, 15≦f≦25, 0.01≦g≦10, and d+e+f+g=100; said Z is one element selected from Co, Fe, Hf, Mg, Mo, Nb, Sc, Ta, Ti, W, Zn and Zr. The metallic plastic could also be CehAliCujNik, in which 55≦h≦75, 5≦i≦15, 15≦j≦25, 0.01≦k<5, and h+i+j+k=100. The Ce-base amorphous metallic plastic has a low glass-transition temperature and a wide super-cooling liquid phase area, therefore possesses a high thermal stability. The material could be deformed, shaped and imprinting worked into desired amorphous alloy articles as thermoplastic plastics at a very low temperature. |
| US08016955B2 |
Magnesium based amorphous alloy having improved glass forming ability and ductility
Disclosed is a magnesium based amorphous alloy having a good glass forming ability and ductility. The Mg based amorphous alloy has a composition range of Mg100-x-yAxBy where x and y are respectively 2.5≦x≦30, 2.5≦y≦20 in atomic percent. Here, A includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Cu, Ni, Zn, Al, Ag, and Pd, and B includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Gd, Y, Ca, and Nd. |
| US08016954B2 |
Ultratough high-strength weldable plate steel and method of manufacture thereof
A transformation toughened, high-strength steel alloy useful in plate steel applications achieves extreme fracture toughness (Cv & gt; 80 ft-lbs corresponding to KId & equals; 200 ksi.in½) at strength levels of 150-180 ksi yield strength, is weldable and formable. The alloy is characterized by dispersed austenite stabilization for transformation toughening to a weldable, bainitic plate steel and is strengthened by precipitation of M2C carbides in combination with copper and nickel. The desired microstructure is a matrix containing a bainite-martensite mix, BCC copper and M2C carbide particles for strengthening with a fine dispersion of optimum stability austenite for transformation toughening. The bainite-martensite mix is formed by air-cooling from solution treatment temperature and subsequent aging at secondary hardening temperatures to precipitate the toughening and strengthening dispersions. |
| US08016953B2 |
High-strength steel material with excellent hydrogen embrittlement resistance
The invention provides a steel material with satisfactory hydrogen embrittlement resistance, and particularly it relates to high-strength steel with satisfactory hydrogen embrittlement resistance and a strength of 1200 MPa or greater, as well as a process for production thereof. At least one simple or compound deposit of oxides, carbides or nitrides as hydrogen trap sites which trap hydrogen with a specific trap energy is added to steel, where the mean sizes, number densities, and length-to-thickness ratios (aspect ratio) are in specific ranges. By applying the specific steel components and production process it is possible to obtain high-strength steel with excellent hydrogen embrittlement resistance. |
| US08016949B2 |
Process and a device to clean substrates
In particular a porous substrate (FS) like a fabric. Process to clean a substrate, comprising a step of subjecting the substrate to an air-water spray (SPR), generated using a spraying means (N) comprising an air passage (OPA) and a water passage (OPW), wherein air is greater than 90% by volume of the spray, the air velocity is greater than 80 m/s and wherein said air passage does not coaxially surround said water passage. Device to clean soiled fabric (FS) comprising a feed water container (CW) and an air compressor (AC) in fluid communication with a spray nozzle (N) comprising an air passage and a water passage, said device being capable of generating an air pressure in the range of 1 to 3 bar (absolute) and an air velocity greater than 80 m/s at the exit of said nozzle; and the air is greater than 90% volume of said spray, and wherein said air passage does not coaxially surround said water passage. An external mix spray nozzle is especially preferred in the device. |
| US08016943B2 |
Method for preparing atomistically straight boundary junctions in high temperature superconducting oxides
A method for preparing film oxides deposited on a substrate with a resulting grain boundary junction that is atomistically straight. A bicrystal substrate having a straight grain boundary is prepared as a template. The Miller indices h1, k1, h2, k2 of the two grains of the substrate are chosen such that the misorientation angle of the film is equal to arctan k1/h1+arctan k2/h2. The film is grown on the substrate using a layer-by-layer growth mode. |
| US08016936B2 |
Methods of calcining particulate material
Disclosed herein is a method of calcining particulate material, such as kaolin. The method comprises providing a feed mixture comprising a particulate material, such as hydrous kaolin, wherein at least a portion of the particulate feed is coated with a liquid fuel. The method further comprises heating the particulate feed mixture to calcine the particulate feed and burn the liquid fuel to form a calcined product. The liquid fuel coating can act as a secondary, indirect heat source for calcining. The overall calcining temperatures and/or times can be reduced as a result of adding the liquid fuel. |
| US08016933B2 |
Non-sulfurous statuary material and method of manufacturing the same
This invention relates to a non-sulfurous statuary material and a method of manufacturing the same, and particularly, to a novel statuary material containing no sulfur, which is capable of substituting for a conventional statuary material containing sulfur as a component of a statuary filling composition, in particular, an industrial statuary material, and to a method of manufacturing the same. In the case where the statuary material according to this invention is used, because it contains no sulfur, unlike conventional statuary material, environmental contamination and the generation of offensive odors due to sulfur are avoided, and furthermore, the use of material having a specific gravity lower than that of sulfur facilitates modeling. The claimed material includes micro wax, petroleum jelly, zinc stearate and starch. |
| US08016930B2 |
Magenta ink composition, ink cartridge, and recording system and recorded matter using the same
This invention provides a magenta ink composition that, when recorded, is excellent in color development, graininess, and gloss, is less likely to cause clogging in an ink jet recording head, and is excellent in color reproduction in a high-chroma and high-lightness red region. The magenta ink composition has an L* value of not less than 60 and a b* value of not more than −17 when the a* value in CIE standard calculated from a visible absorption spectrum in a not more than 10000-fold diluted aqueous solution is 80. |
| US08016929B2 |
Water-based ink for ink-jet recording, ink cartridge and ink-jet recording apparatus
A water-based ink includes a dye represented by the general formula (1), water, DPP, and a surfactant represented by the general formula (2). The dye, DPP, and the surfactant are blended so as to satisfy the conditions (A) to (C). (A) an amount of the dye relative to a total amount of the ink (x) is about 0.1 wt % to 1.0 wt % (B) an amount of DPP relative to a total amount of the ink (y) is about 0.5 wt % to 3 wt % (C) in y≧25x/9+2/9 −175x+18y+225z−104≦0 and −100x+18y+225z−66.5≧0 in y≦25x/9+2/9 −275x+54y+225z−112≦0 and −200x+54y+225z−74.5≧0 z: an amount of the surfactant relative to a total amount of the ink (wt %) |
| US08016917B2 |
Method and apparatus for pollution control of confined spaces
A method of improve the removal of particulate matter, heavy metals, neutralizing acid, and kill microorganism pollutants, known to be in contaminated air volumes of occupied confined spaces, when exposed in close contact under pressure to a mixture of alkaline sorbent materials, having a known synergism between said pollutants using a self propelled fluidized bed reactor and packed bed filter apparatus system to optimize the contact collection efficiency of submicron particles and organic compounds. |
| US08016910B2 |
Method for producing liquid pig iron or liquid steel intermediate products from fine-particled material containing iron oxide
A method for producing liquid pig iron or liquid steel intermediate products from fine-particled material containing iron oxide. The fine-particled material is prereduced in at least one prereduction stage and reduced in a final reduction stage to sponge iron. The sponge iron is melted in a melt-down gasification zone, with carbon carriers and oxygen-containing gas supplied. A CO- and H2-containing reduction gas is generated and introduced into the final reduction stage, is converted there, is drawn off and introduced into at least one prereduction stage, converted there and drawn off. A first quantity fraction of the fine-particled material containing iron oxide is introduced into a melt-down gasification zone via at least one prereduction stage and one final reduction stage, and a further quantity fraction of the fine-particled material containing iron oxide is introduced into the melt-down gasification zone directly or together with the carbon carriers and the oxygen-containing gas. |
| US08016904B2 |
Oil fill cap with air/oil separator
An oil fill cap for an internal combustion engine replaces a standard cap and provides separation of air and oil in a separation zone within the cap body. The cap body defines a plurality of passages therethrough, including an upstream passage, and first and second downstream passages meeting at a separation junction. The cap body defines a separation zone at the separation junction and receiving the air/oil mixture from the engine through the upstream passage, and sending separated air to the first downstream passage, and sending separated oil to the second downstream passage. |
| US08016903B2 |
Z-filter media pack arrangement; filter cartridge; air cleaner arrangement; and, methods
A filter cartridge for use in an air cleaner is provided. The filter cartridge comprises a media pack having a flow end with a framework arrangement thereon. The preferred framework arrangement comprises a frame piece that includes: a seal support; a handle arrangement; and a force transfer arrangement thereon. The seal member is positioned on the framework. An air cleaner arrangement for use with the cartridge is shown. Methods of assembly and service are described. |
| US08016895B2 |
Hair treatment composition and methods
wherein D is a chromophore; L is a linking group selected from SO2, NHCO, and NHSO2; Q is a hydrogen or halogen atom; and R is selected from C1-C4 alkyl, (CH2)nCOOH, (CH2)nCONH2, (CH2)nSO3H, (CH2)nCOOM, (CH2)nPO3H, (CH2)nOH, (CH2)nSSO3″, (CH2)nNR12, (CH2)nN+R1H2, (CH2)nNHCOR1, PhSSO3″, PhSO3H, PhPO3H, PhNR12, PhN+R13, (CH2)2CH(SH)R1(CH2)3COOH, and n is an integer in the range of 1 to 4 wherein within the same molecule each n is not necessarily the same integer; M is a cation of an alkaline earth metal, alkali metal, NH4+ or NR13+; and R1 is C1-C4 alkyl. |
| US08016893B2 |
Gear bearing drive
A gear bearing drive provides a compact mechanism that operates as an actuator providing torque and as a joint providing support. The drive includes a gear arrangement integrating an external rotor DC motor within a sun gear. Locking surfaces maintain the components of the drive in alignment and provide support for axial loads and moments. The gear bearing drive has a variety of applications, including as a joint in robotic arms and prosthetic limbs. |
| US08016891B2 |
Tibial augment connector
An orthopedic augment member and connection to an implant is disclosed. The connection may be formed between the implant, comprising a recess with a ledge formed therein, and the augment member by utilizing a fastener, and a connector, which may be configured and dimensioned to snap-fit into the recess formed in the implant forming an interference fit therebetween. The fastener may further comprise a body member with threads located thereon for matingly engaging a threaded wall defining a recess formed in the augment member, thereby securing the augment member to the recess of the implant. |
| US08016886B2 |
Intervertebral disc replacement device
An intervertebral stabilizer includes: a first member operable to engage an endplate of a vertebral bone of a spine, the first member having top and bottom surfaces defining a thickness therebetween; a second member spaced apart from the first member and operable to engage an endplate of an adjacent vertebral bone of the spine; a connecting element located substantially between and connecting the first and second members; and the first member having at least one slot extending through a portion thereof through its entire thickness and top and bottom surfaces, creating first and second portions of the first member, wherein the slot imparts compressibility and/or expandability to the intervertebral disc replacement device. |
| US08016885B2 |
Cervical motion preservation device
A system of reconstruction for a spinal joint is directed to a modular implant assembly that includes an upper part and a lower part. The upper and lower parts each comprise a unitary body having an approximately ninety degree bend defining vertical and horizontal components. Each vertical component has a fastener hole for attaching it to a bone segment using a bone fastener. The horizontal sections each have a complementary contact surfaces in order to transmit compressive load therebetween and to accommodate sliding and pivoting relative movement therebetween. The vertical sections of each of the upper and lower part are offset with respect to a vertical centerline so that successive assemblies bridging more than one adjacent vertebral space can have an upper part and a lower part according to the present invention coexist on a single vertebra in a space-efficient manner wherein the vertical sections nest spatially. |
| US08016879B2 |
Drug delivery after biodegradation of the stent scaffolding
Disclosed is a stent comprising a bioabsorbable polymeric scaffolding; and a plurality of depots in at least a portion of the scaffolding, wherein the plurality of depots comprise a bioabsorbable material, wherein the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable polymer of the scaffolding is faster than the degradation rate of all or substantially all of the bioabsorbable material of the depots. |
| US08016878B2 |
Bifurcation stent pattern
A stent may comprise a plurality of serpentine bands connected by connector struts. The stent may further comprise a side branch cell having a plurality of outwardly deployable petals. Each serpentine band may have an approximate longitudinal axis. A portion of the serpentine bands may be flared in the unexpanded state, wherein a portion of the axis of each flared band is oriented helically about a portion of the stent. The bands may reorient during stent expansion, whereafter the axis of each band is oriented in a circumferential direction. |
| US08016874B2 |
Flexible stent with elevated scaffolding properties
A stent is disclosed that generates an elevated degree of scaffolding to a bodily vessel while retaining a highly flexible structure. In one embodiment, a stent includes an essentially tubular body formed by a web structure that is configured to expand from a contracted delivery configuration to an expanded deployed configuration and that is composed of a plurality of longitudinally adjacent web rings. Those web rings are formed by a plurality of web elements disposed circumferentially around the longitudinal axis of the stent and adjoined one to the other with a junction bend. Each junction bend in a first web ring is coupled to another junction bend in a neighboring ring with as-shaped connector, and the coupled junction bends are not longitudinally aligned but are instead laterally offset. |
| US08016871B2 |
Apparatus and methods for delivery of multiple distributed stents
Blood vessels and other body lumens are stented using multiple, discreet stent structures. Stent structures may be balloon expandable or self-expanding and are delivered by a delivery catheter which is repositioned to spaced-apart delivery sights. By coating the stents with particular biologically active substances, hyperplasia within and between the implanted stents can be inhibited. An exemplary delivery catheter comprises a catheter body having both a pusher rod for advancing the stents relative to a sheath and a reciprocatable delivery catheter for implanting the stents. |
| US08016870B2 |
Apparatus and methods for delivery of variable length stents
Blood vessels and other body lumens are stented using multiple, discrete stent structures, or continuous coiled or mesh stent structures. Stent structures may be a balloon expandable or self-expanding and are delivered by a delivery catheter which is repositioned to spaced-apart delivery sites. By coating the stents with particular biologically active substances, hyperplasia within and between the implanted stents can be inhibited. An exemplary delivery catheter comprises a catheter body having a deployment mechanism for deploying one or more stents of selectable length into the vessel. |
| US08016868B2 |
Reflective heat patch
A heat patch and method for providing therapy to a body. The heat patch includes a reflective layer and a heat source that is attached to the reflective layer. The reflective layer reflects infrared energy emitted by the body back into the body while the heat source applies heat to the body. The combination of supplying heat and reflecting infrared energy provides effective therapy to people with relatively deep tissue injuries. In another aspect, the heat patch includes an enclosure made from a gas-permeable layer and a reflective layer attached to the gas-permeable layer. A heating composition is sealed inside the enclosure to generate heat when a gas (e.g., air) is received through the gas-permeable layer. The heat generated by the heating composition is easily controlled such that heat patch can be maintained at a temperature well above ambient temperature. |
| US08016864B2 |
Anterior implant for the spine
Implant for the cervical spine comprising an anterior plate (1) for maintaining a bone graft, bone anchorage screws (6,7,8) for the plate and means (22) for blocking the screws and preventing any migration of the screws, characterized in that the blocking means comprises at least one slide (22) slidably mounted on the plate so as to be applicable on at lease one anchorage screw head (15,16). The slide cooperates with means (33,34) for retaining the slide on the head of the screw. The slide may be formed by a thin platelet (22a) which is provided with lateral flanges (25) and is slidable in a complementary cavity (18) provided in the plate (1) while being flush with the surface of the plate (1). The plate (1) includes ramps (26) for retaining the slide (22) on which the flanges (25) are slidable, the slide (22) being slidable to a position in which it at least partly overlaps the heads of the associated screws (6 or 7) and is locked in position by suitable means. |
| US08016861B2 |
Versatile polyaxial connector assembly and method for dynamic stabilization of the spine
Versatile polyaxial connector assemblies are provided for a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system include versatile polyaxial connectors in addition to bone anchors, a deflection system and a vertical rod system. The bone anchors connect the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The vertical rod system spans different levels of the construct. The versatile polyaxial connectors include connectors mounted coaxially and/or offset with the bone anchors to adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and bone anchors allowing for safe, effective and efficient placement of the construct relative to the spine. |
| US08016859B2 |
Dynamic treatment system and method of use
A system and method are provided for monitoring the condition of the skeletal system and adjusting a treatment device to provide appropriate treatment in response to the sensed signal. More particularly, in one aspect the present invention is directed to a sensor for detecting changes at a spinal level and a dynamic treatment system adjustable in response to the detected changes. |
| US08016858B2 |
Electromechanical driver and remote surgical instrument attachment having computer assisted control capabilities
A medical tool comprising an electromechanical driver and a surgical instrument attachment for use in invasive surgery, including a handle coupled to a flexible sheath which is in turn coupled to a surgical attachment. The handle of the driver includes the electromechanical driver and at least one processor element which controls the actions of the electromechanical driver, and therefore the application elements of the surgical attachment, based on information relayed between the processor element and remotely activatable sensor assemblies in the surgical instrument attachment. |
| US08016857B2 |
Vascular puncture closure
An apparatus for placing a patch over a puncture wound in a blood vessel exteriorly of the vessel includes a device for delivering the patch in a folded form and then expanding the patch from its unfolded configuration while deploying the patch about the region of the vessel puncture. |
| US08016854B2 |
Variable thickness embolic filtering devices and methods of manufacturing the same
A strut assembly to be used in conjunction with an embolic filtering device has varying strut thicknesses, with the thickness selected based at least in part on the flexing characteristics of the particular portion of the strut assembly. The strut assembly is formed with patterns having flexing portions and stable portions, with the flexing portions contributing to the flexibility of the strut assembly during delivery and recovery in the patient's vasculature. The stable portions remain relatively unflexed and stiff when being delivered or recovered from the patient's vasculature. The stable portions provide strength and increased radiopacity to the strut assembly which is needed when the strut assembly is deployed in the body vessel. The flexing portions act much like a mechanical hinges in providing the needed flexibility to resiliently bend when being delivered through tortuous anatomy of the patient. |
| US08016851B2 |
Delivery system and method of delivery for treating obesity
A delivery system and method of use thereof for introducing a bundled intragastric bag into a gastric lumen are described. The delivery system includes a pushing mechanism movable between an unexpanded and expanded configuration. The pushing mechanism in its expanded configuration pushes each of the bundles of the bag into the gastric lumen. A suture strand is periodically pulled during the procedure to help create doughnut-shaped bundles. Another suture strand extends between a proximal button and distal button of the deployed assembly to maintain the doughnut-shaped bundle structure. |
| US08016850B2 |
Extraluminal balloon dissection
The present invention provides balloon dissection apparatus and methods of use in which an elongate balloon is utilized to dissect along a region that follows a naturally existing path alongside a vessel or structure, such as an artery, a vein, a lymphatic vessel, the trachea, the esophagus, or even a nerve bundle. |
| US08016847B2 |
Lancet and lancing apparatus
The present invention provides a lancet (X1) which includes a case (1) including an internal space (10), and a lancing unit (2) which includes a lancing needle (20) and which is movable within the internal space (10) in an advancing direction from a wait position to an advanced position. The case (1) includes a main body (11) accommodating the lancing unit (2), and a cap (12) which is molded integral with the main body (11) and detachable from the main body (11). The lancing unit (2) includes a cover portion (22) for covering a portion of the lancing needle (20) on the advancing side, for example. The cover portion (22) is detachable together with the cap (12) by exerting a rotational force for rotating the cap (12) and a pulling force for causing relative movement of the cap (12) in the advancing direction for exposing a front end of the lancing needle (20). |
| US08016845B1 |
Instrument for guiding the surgical cutting of tissue and method of use
An instrument is provided for cutting tissue having a housing, a shaft extending from the housing to a distal end with an opening, and a guide tube extending from the distal end through the opening for receiving a guide wire through the shaft and housing. A movable blade shuttle having a blade is provided at the distal end. The blade shuttle's travel is guided by the guide tube when the blade shuttle and blade is extended from the distal end opening to cut tissue and retracted back through the distal end opening. The housing has a pivotal actuator member mechanically coupled to the blade shuttle to remotely control movement of the blade shuttle at the instrument's distal end. The instrument may be used for longitudinal cutting of tissue at remote sites in the body of a patient to provide incisions of precise depth and length over a controlled path of a guide wire. |
| US08016844B2 |
Surgical device for the collection of soft tissue
A handheld biopsy device is provided for the collection of soft tissue samples from a surgical patient. In a preferred embodiment, the biopsy device comprises a handpiece, a fluid collection system, and a power transmission source. The handpiece is configured for grasping by a single hand, and being independently manipulatable by hand for movement of the instrument toward and away from the patient. An elongated piercer extends from the distal end of the handpiece. The piercer has a sharpened distal end for entering the tissue and a port located proximal to the sharpened distal end for receiving a portion of tissue mass. An elongated cutter is disposed coaxially relative to a piercer lumen of the piercer. A distal blade of the cutter slides distally past the port of the piercer to severe the tissue portion drawn into the port by vacuum. The cutter is retracted to a most proximal position for removal of the tissue portion from a cutter lumen of the cutter. The handpiece further comprises a holster for detachably connecting a cutter rotational transmission and a cutter axial transmission to the power transmission source. |
| US08016843B2 |
Ultrasonic knife
An ophthalmologic cutting device having a base support section for attachment with a movement generating device and a tip with a blade section. The blade section preferably has upper and lower edges, and a forward aspiration free edge extending between them, with the upper edge having a shorter longitudinal length compared with the lower edge and where the forward edge slopes down from a distal end of the upper edge to a distal end of the lower edge, and the lower edge presenting a material contact surface that is thinner in thickness than the upper edge. A slope back in the proximal direction of the forward edge of, for example, 10 to 45 degrees with a straight and/or curving forward edge or a combination of a straight and forward edge sections is preferred. Embodiments of the blade include a blade converging in thickness from top to bottom and one having a curved upper forward edge region and one with a lower edge that has a distal straight section and a recessed section positioned proximal of said distal straight section. The forward edge is also preferably defined by longitudinally diverging, opposing side walls. |
| US08016842B2 |
Methods for treating vulnerable plaque
A system and method for treating a vulnerable plaque. The system includes a catheter and a tissue penetrating device for forming at least one opening in an outer wall of a vessel having a vulnerable plaque. An expansion device exerts force on the vulnerable plaque to force core material through the created opening. The system may also include a pocket forming device for forming a pocket in tissue adjacent the outer wall of the vulnerable plaque. The pocket receives the core material expelled through the opening in the outer wall. |
| US08016840B2 |
Endoscopic suturing system
An endoscopic treatment device is used with an endoscope. This treatment device includes a transmission member with a flexible structure having a distal end portion to be inserted into a body and can be operated outside the body, a push rod coupled to the distal end portion, and first and second connecting members rotatably coupled to the push rod. The treatment device further includes first and second arm members rotatably coupled to the distal end portion of the connecting member, a holding member rotatably holding the respective arm at a predetermined interval therebetween, and first and second actuating members integrally formed with the arm members and can open/close when the transmission member actuates the first and second connecting members and the first and second arm members through the push rod. This device also includes a needle mounted on at least one of the first and second actuating members. |
| US08016839B2 |
Intra-abdominal medical procedures and device
Improvements in intra-abdominal surgery include a method for removing large chunks of organic or inorganic material from the abdomen through a natural body opening such as the urethra. The technique may be supplemented by laparoscopic procedures. |
| US08016837B2 |
Remotely adjustable tissue displacement device
The invention relates to an apparatus for displacing tissue within the body, wherein the apparatus includes two or more attachment members selectively displaceable with respect to each other via a driving member. The driving member preferably is rotatable and is caused to rotate by a magnetic actuator that can be activated by a magnetic field from outside the body. |
| US08016834B2 |
Process and device for treating vertebral bodies
The invention concerns a process for treating of vertebral body (70) with the following steps: introducing a trocar (10) and a trocar jacket (20) into the vertebral body (70), removing the trocar (10), introducing the same or a different biopsy and cement cannula (30) into the trocar jacket, extracting spongiosa (74) into the biopsy and cement cannula (30), removing the biopsy and cement cannula (30), filling a biopsy and cement cannula (30) with contact cement (60), introducing the biopsy and cement cannula (30) into the trocar jacket (20), and introducing the bone cement (60) into the vertebral body (70) by introduction of a plunger (40) into the biopsy and cement cannula (30). The invention further concerns a device for treatment of vertebral bodies with at least one biopsy and cement cannula, which are fillable with bone cement, and a plunger, which is introducible into the biopsy and cement cannula, in order to expel bone cement out of the biopsy and cement cannula. |
| US08016833B2 |
Femoral cutting block
A cutting block assembly comprising first and second interlocking blocks for resecting a distal femur. The first block has a first surface for providing a guiding surface for making an anterior chamfer cut on the femur and a second surface for providing a guiding surface for making a posterior chamfer cut on the femur. The second block is adapted to detachably couple to the first block. The second block has a first surface for providing a guiding surface for making an anterior cut on the femur and a second surface for providing a guiding surface for making a posterior cut on the femur. In another embodiment, the cutting block assembly is a four-in-one (4-in-1) cutting block assembly comprising a first block and second block attached to each other to form a first slot for making an anterior chamfer cut and a second slot for making a posterior chamfer cut. |
| US08016827B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for performing an electrosurgical procedure
A bipolar forceps includes a housing having a shaft extending therefrom including an end effector assembly at a distal end thereof. The end effector assembly has a wheel assembly opposing a jaw member and having a pair of opposing wheels configured to facilitate movement of the wheel assembly relative to the jaw member. A drive rod is operably coupled at a proximal end to a movable handle and at a distal end to the wheel assembly. The movable handle is movable relative to a stationary handle to move the wheel assembly relative to the jaw member. At least one electrically conductive tissue sealing plate is disposed on each of the wheel assembly and the jaw member and is adapted to connect to an electrosurgical energy source configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to tissue held between the wheel assembly and the jaw member to effect a tissue seal. |
| US08016826B2 |
Foam electrode and method of use thereof during tissue resection
Assemblies and methods are provided for resecting a portion of tissue to be removed (e.g., unhealthy tissue, such as cancerous tissue) from a portion of the tissue to be retained (e.g., healthy tissue) within a patient is provided. An electrically conductive fluid, such as saline, may be absorbed into a hydrophilic electrode. Electrical energy (e.g., radio frequency (RF) energy) is conveyed to or from the hydrophilic electrode while being moved in proximity to the tissue along a resection line, whereby tissue adjacent to the resection line is coagulated. A resection member, such as a blunt resection member or a resection electrode, which may be on the same device as the hydrophilic electrode, is used to separate the tissue along the resection line to resect the tissue portion to be removed from the tissue portion to be retained. |
| US08016822B2 |
Fluid injecting devices and methods and apparatus for maintaining contact between fluid injecting devices and tissue
Apparatus and methods for maintaining contact between tissue and a fluid injection device. An apparatus in the form of a suction device for use with a probe that includes at least one energy transmission device and a wettable structure around at least a portion of the energy transmission device includes a suction pod and a connector. The suction pod defines a suction region and includes a suction aperture within the suction region. The connector is configured to secure the probe to the suction device such that at least a portion of the wettable structure is within the suction region in spaced relation to the suction aperture. A support device positioned within the suction region is configured to engage the wettable structure and maintain a predetermined space between the wettable structure and the suction aperture. |
| US08016821B2 |
Living body tissue harvesting apparatus
In a bipolar cutter for a living body tissue, a groove part is formed in a member that is arranged close to an active electrode, thereby providing a constitution to cut while the blood stanching is ensured since when a heat amount generated by the active electrode is conducted in the member, an excessive heat conduction to the member is efficiently interrupted by a layer of air that is produced due to the groove part and the living tissue is thus provided with more heat. |
| US08016819B2 |
Protective cover for a surgical tool
A cover that protects a tip of a surgical instrument. The tip can be placed within a housing of the cover. The housing has openings on each end that allow sterilization fluid to flow across the tip during an autoclave procedure. The tip can be placed on a handle of the cover. The handle can be rotated relative to the housing to allow for the easy insertion and removal of the tip from the cover. |
| US08016817B2 |
Device for controlling exposure of reservoir contents to surroundings
Microchip devices are provided that include a substrate; a plurality of reservoirs in the substrate, each reservoir defining an internal volume; and a reservoir cap positioned on or in each of the reservoirs bounding the internal volume from an external environment, the reservoir cap being formed of a material that undergoes a phase change upon heating, wherein the internal volume can communicate with the external environment upon heating said reservoir cap to cause said reservoir cap to undergo a phase change and rupture. |
| US08016815B2 |
Catheter assembly including foldable internal bolster
A catheter assembly including a foldable internal bolster. According to one embodiment, the catheter assembly includes a catheter, a first flexible filament and a second flexible filament. The catheter includes a tubular body and a pair of flexible legs. The tubular body is a generally cylindrical member shaped to include a proximal end, a distal end, a longitudinal lumen, a pair of external notches, a first bore extending from the proximal end to one of the notches, and a second bore extending from the proximal end to the other of the notches. Each of the flexible legs has a fixed end and a free end, the fixed end being integrally formed on the distal end of the tubular body. One end of the first filament is fixed to one of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the first filament is slidably inserted up through the first bore. One end of the second filament is fixed to the other of the flexible legs, and the opposite end of the second filament is slidably inserted up through the second bore. Consequently, by pulling the filaments up through their respective bores, the free ends of the legs may be drawn towards the tubular body to form a pair of loops suitable for use as an internal bolster. |
| US08016814B2 |
Guidewires and delivery catheters having fiber optic sensing components and related systems and methods
Methods, systems and devices for delivering a diagnostic or therapeutic treatment, substance or device to a target area located within the body of a human or animal subject. A tissue penetrating catheter is positioned within a body lumen near the target area. A hollow penetrator is then advanced from the tissue penetrating catheter and penetrated from the body lumen in which the penetrating catheter is positioned into tissue in the direction of the target area. Thereafter, an elongate optical device (e.g., an optically equipped guidewire or catheter) is advanced through the hollow penetrator and continues to advance through tissue, in the direction of the target area. The elongate optical device is connected to an optical processing device (e.g., a spectrometer) which provides optically determined data (e.g., spectral reflectance, pH, oxygen concentration, temperature) indicating when the elongate optical device has entered the target area. The elongate optical device is then used to facilitate delivery of a diagnostic or therapeutic modality, substance or device into the target area. |
| US08016812B2 |
Techniques for delivery of stem cell and related therapies to treat cardiac conditions
An exemplary method includes acquiring cardiac electrical activity information, detecting a T wave and, based on the detecting, calling for delivery of matter to the heart where the matter may include one or more of stem cells, progenitor cells, nutrients and drugs. Another exemplary method includes calling for delivery of electrical energy to cells destined for implantation in the body or cells already implanted in the body. Such delivery may be timed according to cardiac electrical activity and/or delivered at an energy level below a capture threshold of neighboring tissue. Various other exemplary technologies are also disclosed. |
| US08016810B2 |
Transdermal delivery system for cosmetic agents
An intradermal or transdermal delivery system for topical administration of cosmetic agents, particularly water-soluble, poorly water-soluble, or water-insoluble cosmetic agents, in conjunction with an apparatus that generates micro-channels in the skin of a subject, is useful in treating skin conditions such as cellulite, hyper-pigmentation, skin aging, and acne. |
| US08016805B2 |
Pull-on disposable diaper
A pull-on disposable diaper 1 has, between a waist opening 5 and leg openings 6, a region 71 having a width of 15 to 35 mm in each of a front section A and a rear section B. The region 71, while worn by a wearer, applies a pressure of 1.1 to 2.5 kPa to the wearer's body. With the diaper 1 opened and stretched out, the distance from the longitudinal centerline of the diaper to the widthwise middle of the region 71 in the front section A is 180 to 220 mm, and the distance from the longitudinal centerline of the diaper to the widthwise middle of the region 71 in the rear section B is 180 to 220 mm. A waist portion around the waist opening 5, while worn by a wearer, applies a pressure of 0.3 to 1.5 kPa to the wearer's body. |
| US08016803B2 |
Absorbent article with urine-permeable coversheet
An absorbent article having a backsheet, an absorbent core, a topsheet, and a genital coversheet. The topsheet has an opening positioned to allow exuded fecal material to pass therethrough when the article is worn by a wearer. The genital coversheet is positioned across a portion of the aperture and covers the wearer's genitals. A void space is formed between the genital coversheet and the absorbent core and a void space is formed between the topsheet and the absorbent core. |
| US08016799B2 |
Catheter having a detachable tip
A catheter is disclosed that has a detachable tip for delivery of a therapeutic substance to a chronic total occlusion (CTO) within a body vessel. The tip is made from a biodegradable material and includes an active agent dispersed therethrough. The detachable tip pierces into the calcified lesion, detaches from the catheter, and remains embedded within the lesion as the tip degrades, thereby releasing the active agent. The active agent is a therapeutic substance effective to treat of a CTO. The active agent may be a drug, an enzyme, bacteria, or a parasite that degrades or softens the calcified lesion. |
| US08016798B2 |
Fluid delivery system and sensing unit therefor
A fluid delivery system capable of delivering a precise amount of fluid, such as a fluid required for medical treatment. The delivery system makes use of an inline sensing unit that includes a housing comprising an inlet for receiving a fluid from a fluid source, an outlet for discharging the fluid from the housing, and at least one cavity between the inlet and the outlet. A sensing element and electronic circuitry are disposed within the at least one cavity. The electronic circuitry is adapted to produce an electrical output based on at least one response of the sensing element. The sensing unit is further equipped with a communication element for providing communication between the electronic circuitry and an electronic device remote from the housing. |
| US08016795B2 |
Device for oral administration of a medicine
An assembly for oral administration of a medicinal product to be reconstituted from an active principle in dry or liquid form and from a diluent, A device including a prefilled syringe with said diluent, able by itself to receive a parenteral injection member is provided. A support including a body of elongate form is fastened to the syringe, the support includes a device for fixing to the syringe and, at its distal end a device for preventing the connecting of the needle to the tip of the syringe. A bottle including the active principle and a system for transferring the diluent to the active principle, then the reconstituted medicinal product from the bottle to the syringe, the transfer system being separate from the support. |
| US08016794B2 |
Anchor device and method
Some embodiments of an anchor device may include bendable anchor mechanism that is deployable in a subcutaneous layer to releasably secure the anchor device to a patient's body. Certain embodiments of the anchor mechanism may include one or more barbs that flexibly bend in response to an insertion or removal force. As such, the anchor mechanism may be inserted into a subcutaneous layer, and removed from the subcutaneous layer, without the need for a separate actuation device to extend or retract the barbs. |
| US08016792B2 |
Universal catheter securement device
A universal securing device for holding catheters of various shapes and sizes and the like in place includes a base and cover. The cover may be connected to the base by a hinge which allows the cover to be lifted open or pushed down into a closed position, over a catheter fitting. The base may have locating elements configured and arranged to fit around catheter fittings of various sizes, and the locating elements prevent substantial movement of a catheter fitting and catheter in various dimensions. The cover may include capture elements which act to grip and compress the catheter fitting when the securing device is in a closed position, thus preventing substantial movement of a catheter fitting and catheter in various dimensions. The base may be attached to a patient with an adhesive pad attached to the bottom surface of the base. |
| US08016788B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for medicament delivery
An apparatus includes a housing, a medicament container and an actuator. The actuator includes a release member and an energy storage member having a first position and a second position. In the first position, the energy storage member has a first potential energy. In the second position the energy storage member has a second potential energy. The energy storage member is configured to convert a portion of the first potential energy into kinetic energy when moved from the first position to the second position to move the medicament container within the housing. The energy storage member has a longitudinal axis offset from a longitudinal axis of the medicament container. The release member is configured to selectively deploy the energy storage member from its first position to its second position. |
| US08016787B2 |
Single-use syringe
Self-disabling or self-locking single-use syringe of the passive type, i.e., one that is self-locked after first use of the syringe, in such a way that any attempted reuse is prevented, and is characterised in that it comprises at least two rings provided on the internal face of the barrel and having the general shape of a circular crown with a variable internal radius, and in that each of the longitudinal fins of the piston has a height which is different from that of at least one of the other fins, in such a way that the plunger can be inserted tightly through the space defined by the variable internal radius of the barrel rings. In this way resistance to the passage of the piston is minimised, thereby reducing the risk of causing bruises, and with a manufacturing cost substantially similar to that of conventional syringes. |
| US08016785B2 |
Gastrojejunal feeding tube
A feeding tube apparatus is shown, with self propelled features that provide for placement in the postpyloric region of a patient. |
| US08016784B1 |
Deflectable catheter assembly having compression compensation mechanism
A deflectable catheter assembly having a compression compensation mechanism is disclosed. The deflectable catheter assembly comprises a catheter shaft having a catheter proximal section and a catheter distal section. A therapeutic tool is disposed within the catheter shaft. A compression compensation mechanism is coupled to the therapeutic tool to compensate for a length change in the catheter shaft such as when the catheter shaft is deflected. The compression compensation mechanism includes a spring moveably disposed between a distal stop and a proximal stop that are attached to the therapeutic tool. A deployment slide is moveably disposed proximate to the spring and between the distal stop and the proximal stop. A catheter handle configured to house the compression compensation mechanism is coupled to the catheter shaft. |
| US08016782B2 |
Methods for providing oxygenated blood to venous circulation
Methods are disclosed for the providing oxygenated blood to venous circulation. Embodiments include a femoral access approach to the creation of an Aorta-caval fistula at the bifurcation of the Aorta and the Inferior Vena Cava; an apparatus for the creation, modification and maintenance of a fistula; and a method of supplying oxygenated blood to the venous circulation of a patient. The devices, systems and methods can be used to treat patients with one or more numerous ailments including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, hypertension, hypotension, respiratory failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, lung fibrosis and adult respiratory distress syndrome. |
| US08016776B2 |
Wearable ambulatory data recorder
A wearable ambulatory data recorder that senses physiological parameters of a patient, and stores physiological parameter data for later retrieval, as well as techniques for using such a wearable ambulatory data recorder, are described. The data recorder includes one or more sensors located on or within a housing. The data recorder may include an adhesive layer for attachment to a patient. In some embodiments, the housing may be within a patch, e.g., bandage, which includes the adhesive layer. The housing may be waterproof. Features of the data recorder such as size, waterproofness, and inclusion of an adhesive may allow the data recorder to be unobtrusively worn by a patient during a variety of daily activities. The data recorder may be for single use and thereafter disposable. |
| US08016775B2 |
Dual blade lancing test strip
An integrated lancing test strip includes a pair of blade members that each have a lancing tip that are configured to lance skin. A pair of spacer members connect the blade members together such that the blade members define an internal capillary. A test strip is positioned along the internal capillary, and the test strip is configured to test analyte levels in the bodily fluid. During use, the lancing tips form one or more incisions in the skin. The fluid from the incisions is drawn via capillary action through the internal capillary and onto the test strip. |
| US08016770B2 |
Cognitive function training unit
A cognitive function training unit including an eye-target showing unit for showing a movable eye-target on a display disposed in front of the subject's eye, an eye movement measuring unit for measuring a position and/or movement of the subject's eye, and a judgment unit for judging whether or not the subject can fixedly look at or follow the eye-target based on the position and/or the movement of the eye-target shown on the display and the position and/or the movement of the subject's eye measured by the eye movement measuring unit, and the eye-target showing unit shows the eye-target repeatedly while changing the position and/or the movement of the eye-target according to a judgment result of the judgment unit. Therefore, it is possible to show a suitable eye-target according to a symptom of a patient, whereby it is possible to conduct training efficiently. |
| US08016768B2 |
Hand sensory assessment device
The present invention relates to a hand sensory assessment device capable of point localization, two-point discrimination, vibration, and texture discrimination for assessing and training patients. The device possesses multiples of pins serving as contacting points that are capable of treating multiples points on a patients hand. |
| US08016765B2 |
Integrated manual mechanical and electronic sphygmomanometer within a single enclosure
The present invention provides a new multi-mode sphygmomanometer which integrates into one enclosure a full manual sphygmomanometer comprising a mechanical cuff pressure measuring and display system, a manual inflation bulb and deflation valve such elements comprising the manual/mechanical aspect of the integrated device. Within the same physical enclosure and integrated with the manual sphygmomanometer the device also comprises an electronic blood pressure measuring and monitoring device comprising electronic sensing of the pressure, electronic indication of the cuff pressure and oscillation or KS amplitudes and logic implemented in a microprocessor that automatically interprets these signals to determine the BP parameters. |
| US08016761B2 |
Method and apparatus for automated flow mediated dilation
A method and system for use in measuring the endothelial dysfunction in a patient utilizing flow mediated dilation. The system includes both a non-invasive blood pressure monitor and an ultrasound system that communicate with each other to perform the flow mediated dilation. Initially, the ultrasound transducer and blood pressure cuff are positioned on an arm of the patient and the blood pressure cuff is inflated to occlude an artery for an occlusion period. Following the occlusion period, the ultrasound system is automatically signaled to begin determining both the diameter of the artery and the flow rate of blood through the artery without any operator intervention. Based upon the detected characteristics of the artery before and after occlusion, the system can determine the endothelial dysfunction of the patient. |
| US08016758B2 |
User interface for medical imaging including improved pan-zoom control
An ultrasonic image scanning system for scanning an organic object that includes a display system for displaying a scanned image of the organic object in a plurality of display modes wherein the display system further includes a user input device sensor for sensing a motion of a user input device in at least one of display modes to automatically switch from one display mode to a different display mode. Furthermore, the display system further counts a length of time the user input device staying idle in at least one of the display modes for switching the display mode back to a last display mode at a predefined idle time limit. |
| US08016757B2 |
Non-invasive temperature estimation technique for HIFU therapy monitoring using backscattered ultrasound
Ultrasound data are collected from a thermal source and a mass of tissue before initiating therapy to measure two parameters of the bio-heat transfer equation (BHTE). The parameters are the thermal diffusivity (K) of the tissue and the magnitude of the thermal source (Q). Once the parameters have been obtained, the BHTE can be calibrated to the specific mass of tissue and the specific thermal source. The calibrated BHTE can be used to generate a temperature dependence curve calibrated to the thermal source and tissue, and spatio-temporal temperature maps, to facilitate pre-therapy planning. During therapy, ultrasound data are collected to determine if Q changes during therapy, and if so, the BHTE is recalibrated using the new Q value, increasing an accuracy of the temperature estimations. |
| US08016753B2 |
Endoscope
An endoscope including an inserted portion, which is adapted to be inserted into an organ, having a distal portion with a distal surface, a liquid outlet, which is formed in the distal portion, and is adapted to eject liquid therefrom toward an object located in vicinity to the distal portion, and a flow attracting member, which is adapted to attract a flow of the liquid ejected from the liquid outlet, is provided. The flow of the liquid ejected from the liquid outlet is angled by the flow attracting member so that the liquid is directed at a predetermined portion of the object. |
| US08016752B2 |
Puncturable catheter
A catheter provided with a guidewire catheter lumen having a thin covering that is easily punctured by a guidewire at virtually any desired point along the catheter length. The thin covering may be integral with the catheter shaft, or may be a separate component that covers only the portion of the catheter shaft immediately adjacent the outer portion of the guidewire lumen, or may be a thin tubular construct that surrounds the entire catheter shaft. The covering is preferably relatively translucent, allowing for good visualization of the location of the end of the guidewire to enable puncturing of the covering at the desired location along the length of the catheter shaft. The covering is also preferably tear resistant at puncture sites. The catheter shaft is preferably made of a material having a color that provides good visibility against an operating field, and more preferably is phosphorescent either entirely or in part. Materials suitable for the catheter shaft are polymeric materials well known in the art; the catheter shaft may optionally be provided with metallic stiffening components such as wires or hypotubes along all or part of the catheter length. |
| US08016750B2 |
Flexible tubular liner coating system
Flexible tubular liner coating systems are described herein. A method for coating and forming the flexible tubular inner liner may comprise, in one example, coating at least a first surface of a flexible elongate strip having a first and a second edge and then bringing the first and second edges of the flexible elongate strip into proximity of one another. Once the edges are brought towards one another, they may be joined such that a flexible tubular liner is formed having the coated first surface formed as an inner surface of the flexible tubular liner. Flexible tubular liner coating systems are described herein. A method for coating and forming the flexible tubular inner liner may comprise, in one example, coating at least a first surface of a flexible elongate strip having a first and a second edge and then bringing the first and second edges of the flexible elongate strip into proximity of one another. Once the edges are brought towards one another, they may be joined such that a flexible tubular liner is formed having the coated first surface formed as an inner surface of the flexible tubular liner. |
| US08016748B2 |
Apparatus and methods for coronary sinus access
Apparatus and methods for locating morphological features within a body cavity using a catheter including proximal and distal ends, a transparent balloon carried on the distal end, and an optical imaging assembly carried on the distal end for imaging through the balloon. The balloon includes a channel extending therethrough to a lumen extending through the catheter. A guidewire or other localization member is received in the lumen that is extendable through the channel. During use, the catheter is inserted into a right atrium of a heart, and the balloon is expanded and placed against the wall of the heart to locate the coronary sinus. Sufficient force is applied to clear blood between the surface and the wall and clear the field of view of the imaging assembly. The catheter is manipulated to locate the coronary sinus, whereupon the localization member is advanced into the coronary sinus. |
| US08016746B2 |
Inflatable penile implant
A body implantable penile prosthetic assembly includes a pump and a release mechanism. The pump is connectable to a pressure reservoir and a penile implant, where the pressure reservoir contains a pressurized liquid at a first pressure when implanted. The release mechanism is connectable between the pressure reservoir and the penile implant and is configured to release the pressurized liquid from the pressure reservoir to inflate the penile implant to a second pressure that is less than the first pressure. The pump is operable to transfer the pressurized liquid from the penile implant to the pressure reservoir to deflate the penile implant, and pressurize the pressurized liquid in the pressure reservoir from the second pressure to at least the first pressure. |
| US08016740B2 |
Pressure attenuation device
A therapeutic device is provided. The therapeutic device can include a flexible housing and can be configured to be positioned within an anatomical structure. The therapeutic device can also include at least one high vapor pressure media having a vapor pressure greater than the pressure within the anatomical structure and a permeability of less than 1 ml/day at body temperature through said outer wall. |
| US08016735B2 |
Apparatus for crumpling paper substrates
The present subject matter relates generally to an apparatus for crumpling paper substrates. Specifically, the system provides for the crumpling of paper substrates to form fill material to be utilized in product packaging to fill void space and/or to wrap around products thereby allowing for safe transport of the products. The apparatus includes a feeder for feeding sheeting material, a first roller connected to a drive mechanism, a second roller disposed adjacent said first roller wherein said sheeting material travels between the first roller and the second roller and further wherein the second roller pushes said sheeting material against said first roller to engage the sheeting material with the first roller, and a third roller connected to the drive mechanism for directing said sheeting material out of said apparatus. |
| US08016733B2 |
Lightweight, small diameter paint roller
A novel paint roller “cage” having improved tracking and ease of use is adapted for receiving different length axle shafts of various sizes of paint roller frames. An outer tubular support, upon which a paint roller cover or other paint absorbing material may be mounted, contains a pair of support bearings secured at either end of an inner tubular chassis, with one support bearing at a first end of the outer tubular support, and the other support bearing at approximately its mid point. The two support bearings are connected by an inner tubular chassis, which both maintains the two bearings at a desired axial spacing and also holds the walls and radial bearing surfaces of a bushing chamber that is integrally molded with each support bearing in proper position about a tubular bushing that is adapted to be frictionally secured to the axle shaft. In one embodiment, the outer tubular support has a diameter of about 1″ and a length of about 9″, and can be used with both 6.5″ and 9″ roller frames. The nominal axial clearance between the tubular bushing and the adjacent radial bearing surfaces of the bushing chamber is less than about 0.005″. |
| US08016730B2 |
Exercise machine
An exercise machine (1) for developing motor abilities and muscular strength, of the type comprising at least one supporting frame (2), at least one flexible cable (4) wound on a plurality of pulleys (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) rotatably supported by the frame (2) and connected to at least one resistant load (7), at least one grip element (5a; 5b; 5c) connected to the cable (4) and designed to be operated by a user in order to perform an exercise, the machine being characterized in that it comprises at least one return device (14), to which the ends (4′, 4″) of the cable (4) are connected, said return device designed to return the cable (4) to the initial configuration after an exercise has been performed. |
| US08016722B2 |
Process and device for controlling a gearsift of an automatic gearbox
A method for controlling an automatic transmission, which allows changing a gear change and downshifting with minimal interruption of traction while the phase of reduction of the drive torque of the drive motor, the phase interruption of the frictional connection phase in the automatic transmission and the phase of rotational speed adjustment in the transmission input shaft are designed for a suitable target rotational speed such that they at least partially overlap. Upon interruption of the frictional connection in the automatic transmission, the drive motor transmits a drive torque to the input shaft of the automatic transmission, via the main clutch, which adjusts the rotational speed of the input shaft of a transmission to the synchronous speed of the new gear. |
| US08016713B2 |
Multi-speed transmissions
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and three fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least ten forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. |
| US08016711B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is disclosed having an input member, an output member, first, second and third planetary gear sets, a first interconnecting member, a second interconnecting member and six torque-transmitting mechanisms. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio between the input member and the output member. The planetary gear sets each have first, second and third members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms are selectively engageable to interconnect one of the first, second, and third members with another of the first, second, and third members. |
| US08016708B2 |
Multi-speed gearbox
An eight-gear transmission comprises an input shaft, an output shaft, four planetary gear sets and five gear shifting elements. |
| US08016707B2 |
Machine tool comprising a rotary transmission leadthrough between the driven gear and the spindle
A machine tool gear mechanism (1) such as a spindle gear mechanism, transmits torque from an output shaft (3) of the gear mechanism directly to a spindle (6). The mechanism includes a rotary passage (14) as a device for delivering coolants, emulsions, oils or air between the output shaft (3) or the motor and the spindle (6). The rotary passage (14) is integrated in the spindle (6). |
| US08016702B2 |
Contoured hand grip constructions for a racquet
A handle configuration for a stringed racquet includes a handle shaft having a defined exterior shape and plural mounting apertures, with a butt cap being provided at a base end thereof. A contour assembly has an exterior of designed contour, including an upper protrusion and a lower trigger. The contour assembly is mountable on the racquet handle shaft at a plurality of discrete locations defined by the mounting apertures. The contour assembly has an interior shape conforming to the handle shaft shape to allow the contour assembly to be received on the handle shaft for attachment thereto. One or more mounting elements on the contour assembly align with the handle shaft mounting apertures for attachment of the contour assembly thereto. |
| US08016701B2 |
Lacrosse head
A lacrosse head includes sidewalls having an open frame construction. The sidewalls include an upper rail and a lower rail, along with a cross member joined with the upper rail and the lower rail. The cross member defines multiple holes corresponding to multiple pocket configurations so that a user can attach a lacrosse net to selected ones of the holes and achieve a desired pocket profile. Optionally, at least one of the upper and lower rails can be void of any string holes. Further optionally, the cross member can branch into one or more secondary members that also define string holes to provide additional pocket profiles. Even further optionally, the holes defined by the cross member can be of polygonal shape. |
| US08016694B2 |
Golf club head and golf clubs
A golf club head of the wood-type, including: a body defining an interior cavity and including a ball-striking face, a sole, a crown, and a ribbon extending rearwardly from the face; an elongated groove that extends along a portion of the ribbon; a weight slidably disposed in the elongated grove; and a fastener affixed to the weight capable of selectively fixing a location of the weight. Other aspects, features, and embodiments are also claimed and described. |
| US08016690B2 |
Golf training device
A golf training device having a foot plate, an upright support extending from the foot plate, and a brace associated with the upright support, wherein a golfer may stand upon the foot plate with his buttocks against the brace to provide visual and tactical indication of a departure from the brace during the golfer's swing. In some embodiments of the training device, the brace may be resilient and/or the upright support may rotate. In such cases, the device may include a measurement device to measure the movement of the brace during the golfer's swing. The training device may also include an outrigger with elastic cord for attachment to a golfer to correct a “sway” or “slide” condition. The device may also include indicators to indicate a departure from correct positioning during a golf swing. |
| US08016682B2 |
Quick change glass mounting arrangement for gaming cabinet
A mounting arrangement for supporting the light-transmitting sheets of material in a gaming cabinet includes an upper retaining structure that secures an upper edge of the sheet, and a lower support surface upon which a lower edge portion of the sheet is disposed. A retaining bracket or the like secures at least the lower portion of the sheet of material to the gaming cabinet. |
| US08016676B2 |
Child's car seat assembly enabling access to remote gaming applications and two-way person-to-person communications
A child's car seat assembly includes built-in components enabling wireless gaming applications. A child's car seat assembly includes built-in components enabling two-way, person-to-person communications. A child's car seat assembly includes built-in components enabling both wireless gaming applications and two-way, person-to-person communications. The child's car seat assembly of the invention is intended for use with an infant or toddler. |
| US08016673B2 |
Game device, game device control method, and information storage medium
To provide a game device for allowing a game player to relatively readily control an operation target player character object so as to make a motion according to a moving speed of the moving body object. The present invention relates to a game device for displaying an image obtained by viewing, from a predetermined viewpoint, a virtual three-dimensional space where an operation target player character object and a moving body object representative of a moving body are disposed, and providing a sports game using the moving body. An object control unit (74) controls an operation target player character object so as to change the position and posture thereof in accordance with a moving speed of the moving body object according to a result of determination as to whether or not the positions of the operation target player character object and the moving body object satisfy a predetermined position condition. |
| US08016671B2 |
Game apparatus and storage medium storing game program
A game apparatus includes two LCDs, and a touch panel is provided in relation to the one LCD. When an action game is started, a game screen is displayed on the other LCD, and a still image (capture screen) obtained by copying the game screen according to a capture operation by a player is displayed on the one LCD. When an enemy object on the capture screen is directed, stroked, and so forth by use of the touch panel, the enemy object on the game screen is frozen or erased. |
| US08016670B2 |
Virtual glass for a gaming machine
Various virtual glasses for providing visual and audio displays in a gaming machine are disclosed. Such virtual glasses may replace traditional gaming machine displays such as silk-screened glasses and secondary video screens. A virtual glass system comprises at least a host adapted to provide video content, a host storage unit adapted to store video content for the host, and a virtual glass in communication with the host. A standard virtual glass comprises at least a logic device, a storage unit, and a video display device. Multiples of each item may be present in each virtual glass system and/or virtual glass. In particular, the combined capacity of all virtual glass storage units is substantially less than the combined video content capacity of the host storage units. Additional devices can include remote hosts, remote virtual glasses, multiple hosts, networked systems and advanced logic devices capable of providing prioritization and increased functionality. |
| US08016669B2 |
Gaming machine
During a slot machine game, game effects are also displayed on a liquid crystal panel 39d provided in a reel display window unit 39, and thus the liquid crystal panel 39d serves as a new machine component for performing game effects. Therefore, new effects for the game can be performed on the liquid crystal panel 39d, which facilitates maintaining the novelty of game effects. Furthermore, since the peripheral corner portions in the rear side of the apertures 5c, 6c and 7c formed in the rear holder 39h are removed therefrom, the peripheral portions are prevented from being recognized by the player when a player observes the reels 2-4 behind the liquid crystal panel 39d through the transparent acryl plate 39a. Accordingly, the thickness of the rear holder 39h and the thickness of the entire reel display window unit 39 draw no attention of the player. |
| US08016667B2 |
Remote gaming eligibility system and method using RFID tags
Systems and methods for verifying the eligibility of players attempting to participate in gaming events are disclosed. Communication objects having RFID tags and closed electrical circuits are individually assigned to and worn by players within a gaming player verification system, which can be administered by a casino desk, hotel concierge, or other operating entity. These RFID tags are adapted to communicate with associated player tracking units attached to gaming machines and other devices via radio frequency waves, and each communication object is adapted to alter its communication pattern in response to any break of its closed electrical circuit. Bracelets, wristwatches or collars can be used as communication objects, such that the removal of such an object from a player cannot be accomplished without breaking the closed electrical circuit contained therein, thereby disabling or de-authenticating the device. A computer server having a player verification program and database may also be used. |
| US08016665B2 |
Table game tracking
The present invention relates to a system and method for identifying and tracking gaming objects and game states on a gaming table. Through the use of imaging devices and identity and positioning modules gaming objects are detected. An identity and positioning module identifies the value and position of cards on the gaming table. An intelligent position analysis and tracking (IPAT) module performs analysis of the identity and position data of cards and interprets them intelligently for the purpose of tracking game events, game states and general game progression. As a game progresses it changes states. A game tracking module processes data from the IPAT module and keeps track of game events and game states. Ambiguity resolution mechanisms such as backward tracking, forward tracking and multiple state tracking may be used in the process of game tracking. All events on the gaming table are recorded and stored on video and as data for reporting and analysis. |
| US08016663B2 |
Method, apparatus and article for random sequence generation and playing card distribution
A method, apparatus and article generates a pseudo-random playing card sequence and distributes playing cards according the pseudo-random playing card sequence. For example, the method, apparatus and article generates a pseudo-random playing card sequence and prints playing cards in order of the pseudo-random playing card sequence. Further, the method, apparatus and article generates a pseudo-random playing card sequence based on a house advantage. Yet further, the method, apparatus and article can generate a promotional message on one or more playing cards. |
| US08016661B2 |
Gaming system comprising a plurality of slot machines and method for controlling gaming machine
A gaming system of the present invention is programmed to execute processes of: changing symbols arranged on a sub display in such a way as to scroll symbols in a lateral direction in a display zone comprising sub displays in the respective slot machines, the sub displays being connected laterally to one another; then stopping the changing of symbols at predetermined timing; and at this stoppage, providing an award on a basis of the symbol arranged on the sub display. |
| US08016656B2 |
Apparatus and method for playing poker-style games involving a draw
An apparatus and method for enhancing participation in gaming activities that involve replacement items, replacement cards, or other draw-type activity. A player is allowed to hold cards (or other items) of a starting hand/payline. Multiple sets of potential replacement cards are provided, from which the player can select the desired set of replacement cards. The selected set of replacement cards is used to complete the player's hand. Multiple hands may be played concurrently. |
| US08016653B2 |
Three dimensional virtual rendering of a live event
A method is disclosed for three-dimensional rendering of a live event such as an automobile race over a client device such as a personal computer. Moving and stationary objects at the event may be rendered using computer-generated graphics of the moving and stationary objects and real time positional data giving the position of the moving objects over time. The positional data may be streamed to the client device and displayed in real time or substantially real time. |
| US08016649B2 |
Positioning device for the halves of slaughtered animal bodies for optical capture in the cleaving plane
A positioning apparatus for animal carcass halves, particularly slaughtered pig halves, arranges a cleaving plane to be aligned in parallel with an imaging plane of a camera. The positioning apparatus includes a rear guide element disposed movably at a level of an upper guide. In a region of an imaging position of a slaughtered pig half, the positioning apparatus includes rollers operating as pressure elements. |
| US08016647B2 |
Polishing pad and method thereof
A polishing pad and fabricating method thereof includes a polishing pad body and at least a compressibility-aiding stripe. The compressibility-aiding stripe is buried in the polishing pad body and has a larger compressibility than that of the polishing pad body. |
| US08016641B2 |
Method for manufacturing a golf club head
A method for manufacturing a golf club head having scorelines is disclosed herein. The method includes tumbling a raw cast golf club head in a tumbler containing a rough cut media. The tumbling occurs for at least six hours to create a tumbled golf cub head. The method also includes grinding the tumbled golf club head to clean a perimeter of the tumbled golf club head to create a ground golf club head. The method also includes polishing the ground golf club head to create a polished golf club head. The method also includes finishing the golf club head to create a finished golf club head. |
| US08016640B2 |
Clothing
The invention relates to a breast support apparatus for use with any garment. The sling or wrap of material is elasticated or “stretchable” and non-slip, for example, being of cotton/polyester. The sling or wrap of material has been shaped as shown with the ends being narrowed to the width of elasticated, connecting strap, the ends being joined to the strap and to one another, for example, by appropriate stitching. The ends of the strap are passed through an opening in metal connecting buckle of the connecting strap. The connecting strap may be used to connect or hook the breast apparatus to an appropriate location on an outer garment. |
| US08016639B2 |
Start gate for gravity-driven cars
An improved start gate for gravity-driven cars which is itself a gravity-driven compound pendulum. The pendulum includes a horizontal drop member rigidly connected at one end to a start post support rod which in turn supports a plurality of start posts. A trigger lever, when moved either directly or remotely, allows the drop member to fall as in a compound pendulum thereby rotating the start posts and allowing the cars to start. The embodiment teaches that the subsequent initial start post acceleration is approximately twice the car acceleration. The equations of motion are solved showing that the start posts are guaranteed not to interfere with car motion. A major advantage over prior art spring-loaded start gates is that the gate “slap” from stopping overly-forceful spring motion and the associated track jarring and car jostling is eliminated, thereby contributing substantially to a more smooth and fair start. |
| US08016638B1 |
Mouth game call
A mouth-operated game call comprising at least one sound-making diaphragm, a frame in which an edge portion of the diaphragm is received, and a housing in which the frame is received, wherein the housing is composed at least partially of a cushion or foam material in order to provide improved sealing against the roof of the mouth or denture plate and to relieve discomfort on the tongue by a tab of the call. A member is positioned between the frame and the housing and is shaped to effect a curvature of an outer surface of the housing for sealingly conforming to a contour of a user's palate or upper denture plate. The frame is folded to comprise a pair of upper and lower frame portions between which the diaphragm is received and wherein a tab on the lower frame portion is folded over onto the upper frame portion so that the tab is not in a position to irritate the user's tongue. |
| US08016637B2 |
Wild game call apparatus and method
A wild game call may include a resonance piece. The resonance piece may include a body, pipes, and a plug that may attach to a mouth piece. Also a wild game call may include a mouth piece attached to the body. Additionally, the mouth piece may include a reed and a neck.Alternatively, a wild game call may include pipes of variable lengths attached to a splitter, which combines two pipe openings into one pipe opening. Also, a front pipe may be attached to the one pipe opening of the splitter. Additionally, a wild game call may include a mouthpiece attached to the front pipe comprising openings for exhaling, a reed; and fasteners to attach the reed to the mouth piece. |
| US08016630B2 |
Cathode planes for field emission devices
A substrate 200 is provided with conductive cathode tracks and a field electron emission material on the tracks. Septa 201 and pillars 202 are provided as raised elements over the emission material. An electrically insulating layer is formed over the emission material and raised elements 201, 202, such that boundary walls are formed in the insulating layer where it contacts the raised elements. The raised elements 201, 202 are then removed, to leave emitter cells and voids for other components, defined by the boundary walls with the insulating layer. A gate electrode is provided over the insulating layer. |
| US08016626B2 |
Marine propulsion system
A marine propulsion system that achieves both an acceleration performance and top speed closer to the performance desired by a boat driver includes an engine, propellers rotated by the driving force of the engine, a transmission mechanism arranged to convey the driving force of the engine to the propellers at least after shifting into a low speed reduction gear ratio and into a high speed reduction gear ratio, an acceleration sensor arranged to detect the acceleration of a hull propelled by the rotation of the propellers, and a control section and an ECU arranged to carry out the control for changing the reduction gear ratio of the transmission mechanism. The control section and the ECU are configured to control the transmission mechanism to shift from the low speed reduction gear ratio into the high speed reduction gear ratio based on the acceleration of the hull. |
| US08016616B2 |
Electrical connector system
High-speed backplane connectors systems for mounting a substrate that are capable of operating at speeds of up to at least 25 Gbps, while in some implementations also providing pin densities of at least 50 pairs of electrical connectors per inch are disclosed. Implementations of the high-speed connector systems may provide ground shields and/or other ground structures that substantially encapsulate electrical connector pairs, which may be differential electrical connector pairs, in a three-dimensional manner throughout a backplane footprint, a backplane connector, and a daughtercard footprint. These encapsulating ground shields and/or ground structures prevent undesirable propagation of non-traverse, longitudinal, and higher-order modes when the high-speed backplane connector systems operates at frequencies up to at least 30 GHz. |
| US08016606B1 |
Unstressed connector position assurance device and connector assembly
A Connector Position Assurance (CPA) device for ensuring mating of a male header connector with a female housing includes a body portion, a first arm, and a second arm. The first arm is attached to the body portion, extended from the body portion, and includes a locking groove proximate a distal end thereof. The second arm, which includes a locking latch, is spaced apart from the first arm, attached to the body portion, and extended from the body portion. When the CPA device is guided along the female housing, the locking groove and the locking latch lock onto complementary protrusions on the female housing in a pre-lock position, only to be dislodged upon contact of a sloped surface at the distal end of the first arm with the male header connector during insertion of the male header connector into the female housing to proceed to a final-lock position. |
| US08016602B2 |
Multicontact connector with an incorporated rotary locking part
A connection assembly includes a first multicontact connector housing having at least one blocking element in relief; and a second multicontact connector housing having a housing body extending along a longitudinal axis and a locking cap that is movable relative to the housing body of the second housing between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking cap pivots about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The second housing includes at least one face that includes a locking zone for locking the locking cap. The locking cap includes at least one blocking ramp and at least one locking tab. |
| US08016601B2 |
Cap and connector unit
A cap which is made difficult to come off a connector by suppressing deformation of the cap. The cap includes an insertion portion that has a hollow cylindrical shape and is inserted in a shell body of a shell of a receptacle connector, and a cover portion which is continuous with the insertion portion and covers an opening of the shell body. Ribs are formed inside the insertion portion, for suppressing deformation of the insertion portion. |
| US08016597B2 |
System and method for interjecting bilateral brain activation into routine activity
A method and apparatus are disclosed that automatically interject brain activations into video imaging activities or other activities of daily living. During a video game, for example, an interrupt causes a pause in the game and a commencement of an activity involving but not limited to bilateral portions of the body, the peripheral vision of the game-player, and a visual pursuit-type and saccadic-type action on the video screen. Alternatively, the brain activation can be merged into the content of the video game so as to be generally indistinguishable to the user. Automatic feedback from the system encourages more frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be diminished and less frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be enhanced. The combination of events in the activity is believed to engage the frontal lobes of the brain as well as other brain structures and stimulate brain health. |
| US08016595B2 |
Interactive driving simulator, and methods of using same
In an interactive driving simulation apparatus for a two-wheeled vehicle, a real-time test drive performance by a student operator around a simulated driving route sequence is recorded. The recorded performance is later replayed for the benefit of the student, to provide real-world simulation, education, and performance evaluation. During the simulated driving, pre-recorded performance evaluation comments are selected and stored, corresponding to the student's specific performance at a traffic driving situation on the driving route sequence. Then, upon displaying of a replay screen image of the simulated driving on a display unit, when a particular traffic driving situation is arrived at, a simulated operating environment of the traffic driving situation and the selected performance evaluation comments are automatically superimposed and displayed together as a replay screen 154. |
| US08016588B2 |
Injection molding machine
An injection molding machine is provided which prevents, when molding a molding product, a molded part not to be used as a product to be integrally molded together with a molding product to be a product from being uselessly produced and improves production efficiency.A nozzle receiving section 37 configured on a fixed mold 22 side of a cavity C formed of the fixed mold 22 and a movable mold 21 is made to slightly protrude to allow melted resin remaining at the ends of the nozzle receiving section 37 and nozzle 20 to be used as part of a molding product in the next molding cycle and it is thereby possible to prevent, when molding a thin flat molding product such as a compact disk and video disk, melted resin from being uselessly produced as a sprue. |
| US08016587B2 |
Stretch rod, apparatus and method for producing hollow bodies
A stretch rod used for forming a preform into a hollow body having in its surface a plurality of raised portions and/or recesses relative to the circular cylinder shape, whereby the stretch rod tip can come into contact with the concave, rotationally symmetric inner surface of the preform at a plurality of locations which are separate from one another. Also, a method and an apparatus for forming a preform into a hollow body, which uses such a stretch rod. |
| US08016585B2 |
Nanoimprint resin stamper
A resin stamper is provided that is intended for use in an optical transfer-based nanostructure transfer apparatus and which is capable of automatic transport and alignment. The resin stamper includes a support member made of a light transmitting material and having mechanical strength, an intermediate layer also made of a light transmitting material, and a patterned resin layer which is also made of a light transmitting material. The support member is larger in size than the intermediate layer and the patterned resin layer. The intermediate layer is more flexible than the patterned resin layer. Also, the patterned resin layer has a pattern of high and low areas formed in a surface thereof that is the obverse of the pattern of high and low areas in a mold. |
| US08016584B2 |
Mold for the production of molded concrete bricks, and molded concrete brick using it
A mold for the production of molded concrete bricks has mold recess bodies guided in openings in side walls of a mold insert, which openings are adapted to the contours of the recess bodies, in order to produce recesses in a molded concrete brick produced using this mold. The recesses reach all the way to the underside of a brick, and are supported on one or more sections of the edging of the opening. The wall thickness of the mold insert side wall can have a greater wall thickness in the region of the recess bodies. Preferably, the mold includes multiple mold inserts, and recess bodies that are similar in terms of position and movement direction are coupled mechanically with one another in their movement, and can be displaced together via common drive devices. |
| US08016582B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing optical elements
An apparatus for manufacturing optical elements at wafer level includes a lower mold core, an upper mold core, an aligning plate and an image pick-up device. The lower mold core has a lower alignment mark. The upper mold core has an upper alignment mark. The aligning plate has a first middle alignment mark corresponding to the lower alignment mark and a second middle alignment mark corresponding to the upper alignment mark. The image pick-up device is configured for capturing and analyzing images of the alignment marks to align the lower mold core, the aligning plate and the upper mold core. |
| US08016576B2 |
Vehicle transmission with fluid pump having a recirculation circuit
The present disclosure relates to a vehicle transmission with fluid pump having a recirculation circuit. The recirculation circuit is configured to direct fluid from an outlet of the pump to an inlet during pump cycling. A method of manufacturing a fluid pump for use in a vehicle transmission is also disclosed. |
| US08016575B2 |
Pump for drawing fluid
A fluid drawing device (10) comprising a hand pump (11) connected to a fluid reservoir (12). The reservoir (12) has an inlet/outlet orifice (18) through which fluid can be drawn into and expelled from the reservoir (12). The pump (11) comprises a squeeze bulb (13) with an air release valve (14) in its wall and an air intake valve (15). Compressing the bulb (13) releases the air to the atmosphere through the release valve (14), subsequent decompression of the bulb (13) draws air through the intake valve (15) from the reservoir (12) reducing the pressure in it to draw fluid through the orifice (18) into the reservoir (12). Pushing a plunger (24) slidably housed within the reservoir (12) expels the fluid out through the orifice (18). |
| US08016574B2 |
Cooling fan for a motor vehicle
A cooling fan (1) for a motor vehicle has a fan wheel (4) and a brushless fan motor (2) which is used to drive the fan wheel (4). The fan motor (2) has an internal rotor (3). The fan wheel (4) is directly connected to the internal rotor (3) in order to reduce the size of the type of cooling fan (1) whilst retaining the power output. |
| US08016569B2 |
Configuration of a wind turbine nacelle for transportation
A nacelle for a wind turbine includes a cover defining an internal volume. The cover has longitudinal sides and opposite end walls. A bedplate is within the cover with the power generation and wind turbine control components mounted on the bedplate. The cover has a widest width dimension along the longitudinal sides intermediate of the end walls that exceeds a pre-defined maximum width for rail transport of the nacelle. Removable caps are configured on the longitudinal sides of the cover at the widest dimension, with the caps having a configuration such that upon removal of the caps, the widest width dimension is less than the predefined maximum width for rail transport. |
| US08016567B2 |
Separation resistant aerodynamic article
An airfoil disclosed herein comprises a pressure surface 42 exposed to a stream of fluid, a suction surface 40 exposed to the stream of fluid and a passage 56 extending from a passage intake end 60 to a passage discharge end 66. The intake end has an intake opening 62 penetrating the pressure surface for extracting fluid from the fluid stream. The discharge end has a discharge opening 68 penetrating the suction surface upstream of a natural separation point 52. The discharge end is configured to inject the extracted fluid into the fluid stream at a jet angle whose components include at least one of a nonzero streamwise angle α in a prescribed angular range and a nonzero cross-stream angle β. |
| US08016558B2 |
Diffusive cooling device
A diffusive cooling device includes a plate body, on which a cavity recessed outwardly is formed and an opening is arranged; a web plate jointed at the upper side of the plate body correspondingly; a plurality of passing openings arranged on the web plate to act as air passages; a scroll fan arranged between the plate body and the web plate in corresponding to the opening; a shell body connected to the bottom of the plate body and jointed to the web plate correspondingly to enclose and prop up the plate body therein; and, an air inlet arranged at the front side of the shell body, through which an ambient air is flowed into the shell body by the extracting and thrusting forces of the fan. During operation, airflow is generated along the cavity and extended to corresponding area of web plate to diffusively pass through the plural passing openings to achieve a cooling objective. |
| US08016557B2 |
Airfoil diffuser for a centrifugal compressor
An airfoil diffuser for a centrifugal compressor formed by a diffuser passage area and a plurality of diffuser blades located within the diffuser passage area. The diffuser passage area is defined between a hub plate and a shroud of the centrifugal compressor. Each of the diffuser blades has a twisted configuration in a stacking direction as taken between the hub plate and an outer portion of the shroud located opposite to the hub plate. As a result of the twisted configuration, the diffuser blade inlet blade angle decreases from the hub plate to the outer portion of the shroud and solidity measurements at leading edges of the diffuser plates vary between a lower solidity value measured at the hub plate of less than 1.0 and a high solidity value measured at the outer portion of the shroud of no less than 1.0. |
| US08016553B1 |
Turbine vane with rim cavity seal
A turbine rim cavity seal with a variable gap clearance control in a gas turbine engine. A stator vane includes an inner shroud with an inter-stage sealing housing extending inward and separating a front rim cavity from an aft rim cavity. Front and aft rotor disks are located on the sides of the stator vane and include labyrinth seal teeth extending upward to form a seal with an abrasive material supported on the underside of the housing cavity. The abrasive material includes a slanted sealing surface. A hydraulic actuator moves the rotor disks in an axial direction to control the seal gap and regulate the purge air flow into the front rim cavity and leakage flow through the seal into the aft rim cavity. In another embodiment, the sealing surface is stepped as well as slanted. |
| US08016549B2 |
Turbine engine alloys and crystalline orientations
A method is provided for engineering a single crystal cast gas turbine engine first component for cooperating with a second component. An at least local first operational stress on the first component is determined. The first operational stress has a first direction. A crystal orientation within the component or a physical configuration of the component is selected so that the first operational stress produces a desired engagement of the first component with the second component associated with either a negative Poisson's effect or high Poisson's effect in a second direction. Single crystal or highly textured iron- and nickel-base alloys enable one to use such effect in high temperature and/or corrosive environments. |
| US08016548B2 |
Water supply tunnel secondary purpose turbine electric power generator system
A water supply tunnel secondary purpose turbine electric power generator system includes: a.) a water supply subsystem with a water source at an elevation that is at least 300 feet above the mean altitude of a community, that includes a gravity fed underground water tunnel being located, at least in part, upstream from the community, and, at least in part, being located under the community. There is a plurality of riser conduits in the community connected to the gravity fed underground water tunnel, delivering water from the water source to the community at a pressure that is at least 100 psi in excess of desired water pressure delivered to community water lines; b.) water valving subsystems connected to each of the riser conduits and one of each including at least one safety valve, to lower water pressure of the delivered water; and, c.) a power generating turbine subsystem, including at least one water driven turbine located in at least one of the water supply subsystem and water valving subsystem. |
| US08016547B2 |
Radial inner diameter metering plate
A nozzle assembly for directing cooling fluid in a vane comprising a hollow airfoil containing at least two cooling chambers. The chambers are separated by a generally radial rib. A metering plate mount is attached to the rib. A metering plate, having at least one aperture for tuning the cooling fluid flow within the airfoil, is adjacent the metering plate mount. |
| US08016545B2 |
Thrust balancing in a centrifugal pump
A centrifugal pump includes a casing having an impeller chamber, an inlet, an outlet, and a bearing chamber. A shaft disposed within the casing has an impeller end and a motor end. The impeller is coupled to the impeller end of the shaft and is disposed within the impeller chamber. A bearing is disposed within the bearing portion. The bearing has an inboard end with an inboard-bearing surface and an outboard end with an outboard-bearing surface. The bearing and the shaft have a bearing clearance therebetween. A disc is coupled to the shaft on the impeller end which is spaced apart from the inboard-bearing surface. A seal ring is disposed between the disc and the inboard-bearing surface. The shaft, the seal ring, the disc, and the inboard-bearing surface define a thrust chamber therebetween. The thrust chamber is in fluid communication with the impeller chamber through the bearing clearance so that an axial thrust in an inboard direction is generated by the thrust chamber. |
| US08016540B2 |
Boom
A pivoted coupling member of a two-piece boom can be shared with standard booms. The boom comprises a first boom having, on the base end side, a pivoted coupling member that is pivotably coupled to a boom support section, and a second boom in which the base end side is pivotably coupled to the distal end side of the first boom and in which an arm is pivotably coupled to the distal end side. In the boom, the lateral width of the main body portion 51 of the second boom (18B) is designed to be smaller in the second region (Y) of the base end side than the first region (X) of the distal end side, the base end side of the second region (Y) of the second boom (18B) in inserted between the left and right side walls (29) of the distal end side of the first boom (18A), and the second boom (18B) is pivotably coupled to the first boom so as to be capable of rotating about the lateral axis. |
| US08016537B2 |
Inline-type wafer conveyance device
A structure is provided in which a load lock chamber (51) for carrying in an unprocessed wafer from outside and carrying out a processed wafer to outside, a first end conveyance chamber (54a) to be connected to the load lock chamber, at least one intermediate conveyance chamber (54b), a plurality of sets of a pair of process modules (52a, 52b) provided adjacent to each other and capable of independent processing, and a second end conveyance chamber (54c) disposed at the end part on the opposite side of the load lock chamber are connected in series. Each set of process modules (52a, 52b, 52c and 52d) is arranged one by one between the first end conveyance chamber and the intermediate conveyance chamber, between the intermediate conveyance chambers, and between the intermediate conveyance chamber and the second end conveyance chamber, respectively. |
| US08016534B2 |
Fastener assembly and manufacturing method therefor
A connector includes an elongated hollow body and a nut threaded onto the body. The nut is secured in place by outward expansion of material from the threaded body into a chamfer of the nut. |
| US08016532B2 |
Anti-loose lock nut
The invention is an anti-loose lock nut which prevents a screw coupling between a bolt 12 and a nut 10 by a coil spring 11 which is mounted in the inner circumferential surface of the nut 10 from loosening, the anti-loose lock nut characterized in that: an extended diameter portion 50 whose inner diameter is wider than the thread 13 of the nut 10 and in the inside of which a spiral groove is not formed, is formed in the inner circumferential surface of the nut 10; an insertion groove 52 into which a bent end portion 51 is fit-coupled is formed in the end of the extended diameter portion 50, in which the end of the coil spring 11 is outwardly bent to form the bent end portion 51; a semicircular curved portion 53 is protrudingly formed in the inner surface of the coil spring 11, and the outer surface of the coil spring 11 is formed of a flat cross-sectional plane; clearance spaces 54 and 55 which are respectively wider by one pitch than a thread pitch P of the bolt 12, are formed in the lengthy width of the extended diameter portion 50 and the insertion groove 52, after the coil spring 11 has been mounted. |
| US08016521B1 |
Method for deploying a deepwater mooring spread
A method for deploying a deepwater mooring spread from a floating vessel with a bow, stern, hull, deck, and aft crane secured to a port side or a starboard side of the hull having a hold, and a fore crane secured to the port side or starboard side of the hull. To lower heavy suction piles or other structures to almost unlimited water depths, the crane tackle after a depth of approximately 1000 meters is replaced using the polymer lines as a temporary lifting pennant with almost neutral buoyancy and therefore no extra weight is added to the lifting tackle of the crane. |
| US08016515B2 |
Recycling asphalt apparatus
An apparatus for repaving an asphalt surface is provided. The apparatus includes a base carried on a plurality of wheels, a heater to heat and soften a damaged asphalt surface, a series of blades and a center mill to scarify and break up the heated asphalt surface, and a mixer to receive and recondition the reclaimed asphalt. The center mill may include a plurality of teeth members to break up the asphalt and a plurality of lip members and paddles to lift the broken asphalt and deliver it to the mixer. |
| US08016514B2 |
Asphalt repair method
A method for patching or repairing a hole in a road surface is defined by filling the hole and the area of the road surface about the hole with an oil-based adhesive, which is used to adhere a quantity of patching asphalt which is placed into the hole and into the area surrounding the hole having the adhesive applied thereto. After the asphalt is compressed or packed into the hole and into the surrounding area above the hole, a layer of sand is then applied thereover, which is, also, subsequently compressed into the asphalt to fill the pores thereof. |
| US08016513B2 |
Apparatus for absorbing impact of vehicle collision
An apparatus for absorbing the impact of a vehicle collision is disclosed. The apparatus includes a partition moving speed control member (10), which is provided in the frontmost partition, and a guide rod (20), which is inserted into a hole (10a) in the member (10), such that the front end of the guide rod is fastened to rails, and the rear end of the guide rod does not reach the rearmost partition. The apparatus further includes a locking rod (120), which is coupled to the guide rod (20) such that the rear end of the locking rod (120) is placed through the rearmost partition, and a locker, which is provided on the rearmost partition so that, when the vehicle collision occurs, the locking rod freely passes over the locker, but, after the vehicle collision is finished, the locking rod is prevented from being returned to the original position thereof. |
| US08016508B2 |
Discharge structure of the cosmetic brush
As an inner moving body of a cosmetic brush is pushed, an upper cone type elastic part and a lower cone type elastic part are compressed, thereby opening an inner hole and discharging powder toward a brush. When the inner moving body is released, the inner moving body returns to its original position by the elasticity of a spring inserted around the circumference of a middle member and by expansive force of the upper cone type elastic part and the lower cone type elastic part. An inner hole is closed by a sealing sill formed on circumference of a sealing pin so that powder is not discharging. Thereby, the brush can control the amount of powder to be discharged with the spring inserted around the circumference of a middle member and the expansive force of the upper cone type elastic part and the lower cone type elastic part which are formed on the middle member. In addition, when the supply of powder in the inner moving body is exhausted, the supply of powder can be filled by opening the inner moving body, as assembling and disassembling of the middle member and the inner moving body can be done with ease. |
| US08016501B2 |
Printer and printing method
When a print tape (8) to be used as the label (25α) of a first sheet desired by one user is printed with no cut and then predetermined conditions, e.g. “time out elapse”, are satisfied, the label (25α) is outputted from a printer (6) in a cut state. When the other user instructs the printer (6) to make another label by auto-cut, the other label is cut and outputted. Even if the one user instructs the printer (6) subsequently to make the label of a second sheet by auto-cut to make a label (25) where the label (25α) of the first sheet is connected with the label of the second sheet intentionally, the label of the second sheet is cut and outputted. |
| US08016500B2 |
Flat panel display unit with integrated printer
The invention provides for a flat panel display unit. The unit includes a rear cover molding defining an aperture therein, a base portion, arm and mounting plate fast with the rear cover molding to support the display unit in an upright position, and a pagewidth printer with an ink delivery bus operatively accessible via the aperture for receiving an ink cartridge. The unit further includes a chassis defining a chute for receiving print media therein, said chassis supporting a flat panel display, and a front bezel molding operatively fast with the rear cover molding to enclose the printer, chassis and display. |
| US08016498B2 |
Image pickup apparatus
An image pickup apparatus which is capable of effectively removing dust attached to an optical member due to mounting/removing of a photographic lens in a power-off state, to thereby prevent degradation of image quality. In the image pickup apparatus, when position information of a contact brush that moves in a manner interlocked with mounting/removing of the photographic lens differs immediately after execution of power-on operation from position information obtained immediately after execution of power-off operation, it is determined that photographic lens mounting/removing operation was carried out during power-off, and a camera microcomputer outputs a warning advising cleaning of the optical member. |
| US08016495B2 |
Lens, lens module, and camera module having same
A lens includes a light incident surface, a light emitting surface opposite to the light incident surface, and a side surface connected between the light incident surface and the light emitting surface. The side surface includes arc-shaped convex surfaces. Each arc-shaped convex surface protrudes in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of the lens. |
| US08016493B2 |
Magnetic coupling and camera platform using magnetic coupling
A coupling configured to transmit rotation of a drive shaft to a driven shaft by magnetic force includes a drive portion configured to rotate integrally with the drive shaft, a driven portion configured to rotate integrally with the driven shaft, and a buffer member located in contact with both the drive portion and the driven portion. |
| US08016490B2 |
Thin-wall bearing
A thin-wall bearing, comprising a retainer (4) formed in a divided type having a plurality of resin plate-like members (5), (5), . . . curved along an inner ring (1) and an outer ring (2). The retainer (4) comprises pockets (6) opening to the axial end part thereof and rollingly holding balls (3). Slit-like through holes (14) extending in the axial direction and opening to the axial end part where the opening parts (7) of the pockets (6) are positioned are formed at the center parts of pillars (10) between the pockets (6) and (6) adjacent to each other. As a result, the thin-wall bearing can have excellent lubricity. |
| US08016487B2 |
Walking bearing systems structures and processes
A bearing system comprises a support member and a rotational element having a generally cylindrical bearing surface, and a plurality of detents defined upon and extending in from the cylindrical bearing surface, and may include means for rotating the rotational element in relation to the support member. The bearing system also comprises at least three bearing assemblies, each comprising a cam member rotatably mounted to the support member. Each of the cam members comprises a cam surface having a profile that contacts the cylindrical bearing surface and rotates away from a home position when the cam is rotatably positioned to meet one of the bearing regions, and does not contact the cylindrical bearing surface when the cam is rotatably positioned to meet one of the detent regions. Each of the cam members are rotationally biased toward their home position. |
| US08016486B2 |
Rolling guiding device
A rolling guiding device makes it possible to easily provide a movement block with an endless circulation path for the balls. In one surface of a movement block opposed to a rolling groove of a raceway rail, there is formed a track groove through which balls makes an endless circulation. The track groove is includes a load straight-line groove which allows, between the track groove and the rolling groove of the raceway rail, the balls to roll while bearing a load. It also includes a pair of ball deflection grooves respectively provided at both ends of the load straight-line groove and adapted to release the balls having rolled through the straight-line groove from the load and to change their rolling direction, and a non-load straight-line groove for transferring the ball in a non-load state from one deflection groove to the other ball deflection groove. |
| US08016481B1 |
Method and apparatus of measuring temperature
The disclosure provides methods and apparatuses of measuring a temperature. A method of measuring a temperature can include generating a time varying signal that varies with time in a known manner, such as having a repeating sawtooth waveform. Further, the method can include generating a first intersecting signal that intersects with the time varying signal at a first time, and generating a second intersecting signal that varies with temperature and intersects with the time varying signal at a second time. Subsequently, the method can construct a pulse signal having a first edge corresponding to the first time and a second edge corresponding to the second time, with the pulse signal having a width corresponding to the temperature. |
| US08016480B2 |
Heat flow sensor
Heat flow sensor having at least two plates with the heat (thermo) sensitive elements and with holes (openings) for the passage of air flow, so that the tops of both plates with the thermo sensitive elements are placed facing the outer surface of the sensor, so that their openings coincide and the construction provides passage of air through the openings whereby the thermo sensitive elements are located between all the holes of the plates and serially connected on every plate, and then the said sensor (plates) has one common point of connection in the middle of each side so that each sensor has at least three output wires—the total, the output of each plate, and therefore the magnitude and direction of the heat flow, are determined by the difference between the outputs of the two earlier described plates. |
| US08016476B2 |
Back light module
A backlight module including a frame, a light guide plate, a light source and a flexible printed circuit board is provided. The flexible printed circuit board includes a body, a light source carrying portion and a connecting portion. The body is bent, so a top edge and a bottom edge of the body are respectively disposed at a top side and a bottom side of the frame. The light source carrying portion carries the light source. The connecting portion has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to a middle region of a bottom side of the light source carrying portion. The second end is connected to the bottom edge. The connecting portion is bent, such that the light source carrying portion is disposed on the top side of the frame and the light source is positioned at a side of the light guide plate. |
| US08016465B2 |
Luminous molded part, in particular a decorative part and/or trim part for a vehicle interior
The invention relates to a molded part, in particular a decorative part and/or a trim part for a vehicle interior. According to the invention, the molded part comprises at least one excitation source for emitting electromagnetic waves and at least one luminescent material which is excitable or excited by the electromagnetic waves emerging from the excitation source or sources to emit light in the visible range. |
| US08016464B2 |
Multifunctional internal lighting device for a motor vehicle
The present invention relates to a multifunctional internal lighting device for a motor vehicle. A single internal lighting device comprises various LED-type light sources which are capable of performing at least one first internal lighting function and a second internal lighting function. The various LEDs are distributed into at least two separate sets, a first set being dedicated to the performance of the first internal lighting function and a second set being dedicated to the performance of a second internal lighting function. In particular, it is proposed to use axial emission LEDs or through-emission LEDs and lateral emission LEDs to perform the first function and the second function respectively. |
| US08016460B2 |
Converging element for LED
A converging element for an LED is described, which is used for converging light rays emitted from a light-emitting chip to enable the light rays to form approximately parallel light rays after passing through the converging element. The converging element for LED includes a cylinder and a first lens. The cylinder is disposed on the light-emitting chip. The first lens is disposed on the other end of the cylinder opposite to the light-emitting chip. The first lens has a first plane and a first curved surface opposite to each other. The first plane of the first lens is attached to the cylinder. |
| US08016457B2 |
Workspace lighting system
A modular lighting system for lighting a work area is disclosed. The system includes a power supply with power outlets for powering LED fixtures. The power supply preferably operates at or below a fixed power output level, such as to illuminate the work area using less than 0.2 Watts per square foot of energy. The lighting system also includes an occupancy sensor and/or a light level sensor for controlling lighting levels in the work area in response to detection of a person, ambient light levels and/or a combination thereof. The lighting system can also include computer unit with a micro-processor and a memory unit for running software or firmware the executes lighting programs, stores light usage histories and/or provides system reports to a remote computer by a wireless means and/or over a computer network. |
| US08016456B2 |
Rotatable reflector support system
Disclosed is a system for the support and rotation of a reflector onto a body of a fluorescent luminary. The luminary body has first and second longitudinal ends along an axis. The rotatable reflector support system comprises an elongated reflector having first and second longitudinal ends. The reflector has first and second arch-shaped fittings proximate to the first and second reflector ends, respectively. First and second bases are mounted on the luminary body and are proximate to the first and second ends of the body, respectively. The side of each base faces the lamp, when the lamp is mounted in the luminary, and is shaped to engage a plurality of serial portions of an associated arch-shaped fitting in a manner allowing serial portions of the fitting, when manipulated, to slide along an arch-shaped path transverse to said axis and to hold the fitting in place when the fitting is not manipulated. |
| US08016449B2 |
Surface light emitting apparatus emitting laser light
A surface light emitting apparatus capable of providing uniform illumination while efficiently using a laser light. The apparatus comprises a light source section that includes at least one light source which emits laser beam; an optical guiding section that guides from an incidence surface of the optical guiding section the laser beam emitted from the light source section and emits the laser beam from a radiation surface of the optical guiding section; and an optical element section that includes at least one beam shaping optical element with a powered surface which converts an intensity distribution of the laser beam emitted from the light source section at the incidence surface of the optical guiding section to a uniform intensity distribution. |
| US08016448B2 |
Display device and light-emitting device
The display device includes: a display panel that displays an image; and a backlight that is disposed on a back surface of the display panel and emits light from the back surface of the display panel. The backlight includes: an output member that outputs incoming light to the display panel; and a light source that emits light to the output member from a side of the output member. The light source includes: plural board-shaped substrates that each have a light-emitting element mounted on a surface thereof; and a wiring board that is in contact with a side surface of each of the plural board-shaped substrates to hold, in an upright position, the plural board-shaped substrates which are arranged in a line, and that is arranged so that the each light-emitting element faces the side of the output member while the wiring board is electrically connected to the plural board-shaped substrates. |
| US08016445B2 |
Planar light emitting element, image display element, and image display device using the same
A planar light emitting element is capable of outputting light having high directivity in at least one direction. The planar light emitting element has a light guide plate and first and second low refractive index layers. Light incident on the light guide plate is totally reflected on the interface between the light guide plate and the second low refractive index layer, propagates in the light guide plate, and is output from the light guide plate to the first low refractive index layer through a light output opening section. When a refractive index of the first low refractive index layer is sufficiently smaller than a refractive index of the light guide plate, the light propagates in the light guide plate at a large angle with respect to a light output surface of the light guide plate. When the difference between the refractive indexes of the first and second low refractive index layers is small, a spreading angle of light output to the first low refractive index layer is small. The light having high directivity is reflected on a reflective mirror and output from the planar light emitting element. |
| US08016438B2 |
Spherical mirror mount
A spherical mounting assembly for mounting an optical element allows for rotational motion of an optical surface of the optical element only. In that regard, an optical surface of the optical element does not translate in any of the three perpendicular translational axes. More importantly, the assembly provides adjustment that may be independently controlled for each of the three mutually perpendicular rotational axes. |
| US08016437B2 |
Vehicular door mirror device
A vehicular mirror device includes a housing which is comprised of two housing components at least partially opposed to each other, and which is adapted to cover a mirror from the front during traveling of a vehicle. A collar is integrally and projectingly provided on one of the housing components to extend so that it is superposed onto the other housing component at opposed portions of both the housing components, and a plurality of recesses are provided in a juxtaposed manner in a tip end of the collar. This suppresses to the utmost the generation of a wind roar due to traveling wind flowing into between opposed portions of the housing components. |
| US08016434B2 |
Method and system for projecting an animated object and concurrently moving the object's projection area through an animation pattern
A projection assembly and projection method for accurately reproducing animated and live characters, objects, and effects. The projection assembly uses a high precision robotic mirror system to achieve very high levels of image resolution, brightness, and contrast. The assembly includes a projector receiving an input image stream, and a mirror assembly is positioned proximate to the projector outlet. The mirror assembly uses positionable mirrors to reflect the projected images onto a display surface at positions that define an animation pattern on the display surface for the projected image or character. The assembly includes a motor controller assembly positioning the mirrors based on position data defining the animation pattern. The projected images may be provided in a projection area that is a fraction of the size of the display surface, such that the resolution and output light of the projector are concentrated on the display surface within this projection area. |
| US08016429B2 |
Optical projection system and smooth picture device thereof
A smooth picture device includes an optical element, a holder, a flexible member, a base and an actuator. The holder supports the optical element. At least one portion of the holder is coupled to the flexible member. The base supports the flexible member. The actuator is coupled to the holder and actuates the holder to vibrate. |
| US08016426B2 |
Method and device for projecting a panoramic image with a variable resolution
Embodiments include a method and apparatus for projecting a panoramic image, the method including steps of generating an image on an image generation surface, and then projecting the generated image on a projection surface to obtain a panoramic projected image, the points of the generated image being projected on the projection surface according to a non uniform distribution determined as a function of at least one parameter of a set comprising the shape of the generated image, the shape of the projection surface, and the position of an observation point of the projected image, in relation to the projection surface. |
| US08016425B2 |
Projector
A projector includes: a light source which emits light containing visible light and infrared light; a light time division unit which divides light emitted from the light source into one or more visible lights having different wavelength ranges and one or more infrared lights having different wavelength ranges in a time-division manner; a light modulation element which time-sequentially modulates the plural lights separated by the light time division unit and having different wavelength ranges; and a projection unit which projects and displays the light modulated by the light modulation element on a projection-receiving surface. A plurality of images containing a visible image produced by the one or more visible lights and an infrared image produced by the one or more infrared lights are displayed on the same projection receiving surface. |
| US08016421B2 |
Information system and method for providing information using a holographic element
An information system and a method for providing information in correlation with light that is incident on an eye includes a holographic element disposed in front of the eye and a device capable of recording optical signals which detects light that is incident on the eye via the holographic element. The device capable of recording optical signals detects light which is diffracted by the holographic element before the light impinges on the eye such that the diffracted light does not enter the eye. |
| US08016420B2 |
System and method for illumination and fixation with ophthalmic diagnostic instruments
An eye measurement system may include a target that moves transverse to an optical path from the target to eye, so as to relax accommodation of the lens of the eye. The target may move transverse to the optical path on a display. The patient may be fogged while the target moves transverse to the optical path, and the target may become smaller such that the patient perceives the target to be moving away from the patient. A pupil camera may measure eye position that can be correlated with the position of the target on the display to determine that the patient has maintained fixation on the moving target. A visible measurement light beam may be pulsed subsequent to and/or during motion of the target that relaxes accommodation of the eye so as to avoid visual interference of the measurement light beam with the target on the display. |
| US08016417B2 |
Eye model
An eye model including a front positive lens, a rear positive lens, an aperture stop located between the front and rear positive lenses, and a focal plane located rearward of the rear positive lens, wherein the front positive lens has a meniscus shape having an outer surface radius equal to a radius of a human eye, and wherein the rear positive lens has a rear surface having a radius equal to a distance from the aperture stop to the rear surface. |
| US08016415B2 |
Eyewear incorporating lenses with electronically variable optical properties
An electro-optic eyewear assembly having a frame with opposed ends, a pair of temples, and a hinge mechanically interconnecting each temple to a corresponding end of the frame. Each temple moveable between a wearing position and a storage position and at least one electro-optic lens carried by the frame and a control circuit carried by at least one of the temples. The electrical connection between the control circuit and the at least one electro-optic lens being made by moving one of the temples into physical contact with the frame when the temple carrying the control circuit is moved to a wearing position. |
| US08016412B2 |
Image recording apparatus and method of producing image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus has an apparatus body; a display unit; a first axis, a first bearing, a second axis and a second bearing which support the display unit pivotably to the apparatus body; a separate part which is formed unintegrally from the apparatus body, to which the first axis or the first bearing is attached, and which has a key; and an engaging part which is provided to the apparatus body and which extends along a surface of the apparatus body, and which is formed with a receiving part formed for receiving the key; wherein the key has been engaged with the receiving part. Accordingly, the separate part is firmly and tightly fixed to the apparatus body, and the display unit is pivotally supported to the apparatus body in a firm and tight manner. |
| US08016407B2 |
Printer with an exposure head
A printer having an exposure head including an exposure head housing have side walls. The printer also includes a plurality of reflectors disposed in the exposure head housing, the plurality of reflectors including a plurality of elliptical reflectors and a plurality of planar reflectors. A lamp is disposed in the exposure head housing so as to be at least partially surrounded by the plurality of reflectors so that radiation emitted by the lamp during an operation of the printer is directed by the reflectors onto a printed image plane printable with photocurable ink. |
| US08016405B2 |
Ink-jet recording apparatus
The ink-jet recording apparatus has an ink passage into which a water based ink or a preservation solution is filled. The ink passage employs a rubber member formed from a rubber which is formed of a butyl rubber polymer, a rubber polymer vulcanizable with an organic peroxide, and an organic peroxide. The water-based ink has a dynamic surface tension at a lifetime of 100 ms of about 35 mN/m to about 45 mN/m as measured by means of a maximum bubble pressure method at a measurement temperature of 25° C. The preservation solution has a dynamic surface tension at a lifetime of 100 ms of about 30 mN/m to about 35 mN/m as measured by means of the maximum bubble pressure method at a measurement temperature of 25° C. |
| US08016401B2 |
Control system for printing apparatus and information processing apparatus
An appropriate maintenance such as appropriate registration adjustment can be executed even if a status for the maintenance cannot be acquired from a printing apparatus. Specifically, if a status cannot be acquired from the printer, a printer driver refers to a history of number of past instructions for registration adjustment stored in a host computer to determine whether simplified registration adjustment or detailed registration adjustment is to be executed. If the printer driver does not detect any record of executed registration adjustment, that is, if the printer driver detects that no registration adjustment has been executed, then it determines that the simplified registration adjustment is to be executed. If the printer driver detects any record of executed registration adjustment, it determines that the detailed registration adjustment is to be executed. Thus, the invention enables the correct guidance and the corresponding appropriate registration adjustment even if the status cannot be acquired. |
| US08016398B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus and method for supplying liquid in liquid ejection apparatus
A printer has a carriage on which a recording head and pumps are mounted. An air supply device and ink cartridges are provided in a frame of the printer. The pumps are connected to the air supply device with an air supply tube. Each pump is connected to corresponding one of the ink cartridges with an ink supply tube. Based on actuation of a drive mechanism of the air supply device, air is supplied from the air supply device to the pumps. Based on changes in the pressure of the air, each pump draws ink from the corresponding ink cartridge and supplies the ink to the recording head. This permits the carriage to reciprocate in a reliable manner. |
| US08016397B2 |
Liquid supply device and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid supply device includes a liquid supply path for supplying liquid from an upstream, liquid supply side toward a downstream side where the liquid is consumed. A defoaming chamber in the middle of the liquid supply path causes bubbles to escape from the liquid. A decompression chamber adjacent to the defoaming chamber has a partition wall interposed therebetween and is decompressed to have lower pressure than the defoaming chamber. The partition wall allows gas to permeate therethrough by decompression of the decompression chamber and regulates permeation of liquid. The partition wall is formed by a separate member from a decompression chamber forming member that forms the decompression chamber. The partition wall forms a part of an inner surface of the liquid supply path, and the liquid supply path passes along the inside of a wall portion of the decompression chamber in the decompression chamber forming member. |
| US08016390B2 |
Liquid discharging head and inkjet head
A liquid discharging head includes a flow path unit having a common liquid flow path; an individual liquid flow path; and a plurality of plates that are stacked to form the common liquid flow path and the individual liquid flow path. The plurality of plates includes at least four manifold plates that include partial plates and support members, wherein the at least four manifold plates comprise: a first manifold plate that includes a first partial plate and a first support member that supports the first partial plate; a second manifold plate that includes a second partial plate and a second support member that is adjacent to the first support member in a direction in which the common liquid path extends, the second support member supporting the second partial plate; and at least one manifold plate that is interposed between the first manifold plate and the second manifold plate. |
| US08016389B2 |
Printhead IC with staggered nozzle firing pulses
An inkjet printer comprising: an array of nozzles arranged into rows, each row of nozzles is divided into a series of groups; and, drive circuitry for sending a drive pulse to each of the nozzles individually such that they eject a drop of printing fluid; wherein, the drive circuitry delays sending the drive pulses to one of the groups relative to at least one of the other groups. |
| US08016387B2 |
Ink jet head
An ink jet head includes a head chip having driving walls made up of piezoelectric device, ink channels that eject ink, air channels that do not eject ink, driving electrodes formed inside of the of the channels, at least one common electrode that conducts with the driving electrodes of the air channels, and connection electrodes that conduct with the driving electrodes of the ink channels separately, wherein the ink channels and the air channels are alternatingly arranged in parallel and form channel rows arranged in parallels, and a nozzle plate joined to a front surface of the head chip and has a plurality of nozzles, wherein individual connection electrodes of any adjacent two channel rows formed at a side of an edge of the head chip are lead out and aligned at the edge of the head chip. |
| US08016386B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus
In an ink jet printing apparatus using many types of inks to execute bidirectional printing, if ejection opening rows for yellow, magenta, and cyan inks are symmetrically arranged, ejection opening rows for a black ink are arranged adjacent to the most inside ejection opening rows for the yellow ink. Thus, a difference in color between forward scanning and backward scanning is determined by a difference in coloring between the black ink and the yellow ink. In this case, a possible color drift attributed to bidirectional printing can be suppressed by selecting the inks so that the difference in coloring between the black ink and the yellow ink is smaller than that between the black ink and the other color inks. |
| US08016385B2 |
Printer and printing method
A printer including a feeding unit configured to perform repeated feeding of a medium for a predetermined feeding distance in a predetermined feeding direction, a print head configured to print on a printing surface of the medium in a printing zone set each time the feeding unit performs a feeding of the medium for the feeding distance, and a printing pass setting unit configured to set the printing zone containing a plurality of printing passes. The printing pass setting unit sets the printing passes such that boundaries between the printing passes extend diagonally relative to a width direction of the medium that is perpendicular to the feeding direction. The printing pass setting unit can set the printing passes such that the boundaries between the printing passes extend in waveform in the width direction with oscillation of the waveform being in the feeding direction. |
| US08016384B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes at least one recording head module including a plurality of heads, a branch member, and a base member. Each of the heads includes a plurality of nozzle arrays, and discharges liquid droplets onto a sheet. The branch member is provided on the heads to extend in a direction in which the heads are arranged, and forms a common channel for distributing and supplying liquid to the heads. The base member has an L-shaped cross section along a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the heads are arranged, and has a first surface for holding the heads arranged thereon in an array and a second surface. An end portion of the first surface not connected to the second surface does not project more than a corresponding end portion of at least one of the heads and the branch member. |
| US08016381B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus and method of controlling same
When a predetermined time T1ref has elapsed from performance of a previous cleaning, all nozzles in a nozzle row as an inspection target are driven at a drive frequency of a maximum frequency so that an air bubble in a filter chamber is crushed against a filter by increasing the flow rate in the filter chamber of an ink needle which connects an ink cartridge and a head, and a nozzle inspection to determine whether or not a nozzle defect is occurred is performed repeatedly until the nozzle defect occurs at a predetermined time interval T2ref (every week, for example) and, when the nozzle defect occurs, cleaning for ejecting the air bubble in the filter chamber to the outside is performed. |
| US08016380B2 |
High precision feed particularly useful for UV ink jet printing on vinyl
An apparatus (30, 40, 50) and a method of ink jet printing are disclosed that use a system for feeding a substrate longitudinally relative to a support area and a system for moving a printhead parallel to the direction of substrate feed. Indexing between transverse scan rows of a printhead (20) is carried out initially by the substrate feed system (16) and the actual feed distance is measured using an encoder or other substrate position measurement device (26). A controller (25) determines the amount of any error that occurs between the actual and the desired feed distances. The controller (25) then sends signals to move the printhead (20) to compensate for any error in the feed system feed. Compensating adjustments are then made to the next subsequent substrate indexing step so that the printhead tends to move back toward its home or zeroed position with its next correction and does not walk away from this home position as a result of cumulative movements. For printers that have bridges (17) moveable relative to the machine frame (11) on which the printhead (20) is carried, printhead motion is achieved by moving the bridge, for example, by actuating a linear servo bridge motion system (31). For fixed bridge roll-to-roll printers, the printhead (20) can be caused to shift longitudinally on the bridge (17) to make the correcting movements. |
| US08016374B2 |
Pull-out slide for drawers and drawer
A pull-out slide for drawers can include a cabinet member, a drawer member, with a unit which defines the closed position of the slide and/or the drawer, and which acts on the slide and/or the drawer and whereby a depth adjustment of the slide and the drawer is planned for. A holding device can be present, that engages the unit intermittently whereby the holding device and/or the unit is depth adjustable on the slide and/or height and/or side adjustable. A drawer can comprise a pull-out slide described herein. |
| US08016366B2 |
Differential brake control and weighted average wheel speed for brake control system
A differential brake control system is provided for a vehicle having first and second wheels on respective sides of a vertical axis of the vehicle. The system includes processing logic for computing a wheel brake command based on an input brake command indicative of a desired amount of braking. In addition, the system includes differential logic for adjusting the wheel brake command by first and second amounts to produce first wheel and second wheel brake commands, respectively, the first amount being different from the second amount. |
| US08016364B2 |
Toothbrush and process for producing the same
The invention relates to a toothbrush with a neck piece and a brush body, comprising a head piece connected thereto, conventional bristles and at least one soft elastic cleaning element. According to the invention, the conventional bristles are mounted on a support element made from hard plastic. The above is connected to the brush body by means of a recess on the head piece which matches the support element. The at least one cleaning element is arranged on the head piece and directly connected to the brush body. The invention further relates to a method for production of such a toothbrush. |
| US08016360B2 |
Adjustable arm rest for chair
An adjustable armrest assembly for a chair includes a mounting member connected to the chair. The mounting member has an upper base. A first horizontal slide element is slidably mounted to the upper base and is adjustably slidable in a first direction with respect to the upper base. The first slide element is restrained after adjustment with respect to the upper base by frictional engagement between the upper base and the first slide element. A second horizontal slide element for slidably mounting to the first slide element is slidable in an arcuate path crossing the first direction. The second slide element is restrained after adjustment with respect to the first slide element by frictional engagement between the second slide element and the first slide element. |
| US08016356B2 |
Gears and coupling apparatus using the gears
Tooth shapes of gears are formed such that a meshing line given by meshing of an inner gear and an outer gear provided in a state of meshing with each other for enabling transmission of a power is configured as a spiral mesh line. |
| US08016350B2 |
Vehicle seat for reducing the risk of spinal and head injuries of personnel in combat vehicles
A vehicle seat for use in military vehicles provides increased protection for a helmeted or unhelmeted combatant soldier. The seat includes a seat portion having a layer of high impact energy absorbing material. A back support portion adjoined to the rear of the seat portion extends upwardly for supporting the rearward side of the seated soldier. The back portion has a lower section for supporting the thorax and lower back, and two overlying sections which are positionable for supporting and restraining rearward movement of the helmeted or unhelmeted head and the neck. The overlying sections are moveable toward and away from the soldier and together define a surface and contour which interacts with the seated soldier during rear end impact to maintain the pre-collision shape of the soldier's supported spinal curves, to aid in avoidance of whiplash and similar injuries. Swivelable side portions actuated by sensors flank the sides of the soldier for further protection. |
| US08016348B2 |
Reciprocating seating unit with power actuator
A reciprocating and reclining seating unit includes: a base unit with a first bearing surface; a generally horizontally-disposed seat positioned above the base; a generally upright backrest positioned above the base and substantially rearward of the seat; an extendable ottoman; a reclining mechanism attached to the seat, the backrest, the ottoman and the base unit, the reclining mechanism comprising a plurality of pivotally interconnected links; a reciprocating mechanism attached to the base unit and the reclining mechanism, the reciprocating mechanism being configured to enable the seat, backrest and reclining mechanism to reciprocate relative to the base unit along a longitudinal path responsive to a longitudinally-directed force; and a power actuating unit attached to the reclining mechanism. |
| US08016347B2 |
Front structure of automobile hood
In a front structure of a vehicle hood, a dent preventive reinforcement is connected to an outer panel and an inner panel. The dent preventive reinforcement is formed as a plate-shaped member that is disposed in the vehicle widthwise direction between the panels while vertically extending with respect to both of the panels. Respectively formed in vertical wall portions of the dent preventive reinforcement are stress-focusing portions to which stress can be concentrated. When an impact load is applied to an outer surface of the outer panel from outside of a vehicle body, the vertical wall portions of the dent preventive reinforcement is bent at the stress-focusing portions, so that the impact load can be absorbed. |
| US08016345B1 |
Operator cab having inwardly folding access door
An operator cab for a skid steer vehicle is equipped with an inwardly folding front access door that can be locked in either a fully closed position or a fully open position. A pair of over-centered cylinders assists with closing and opening of the front access door. A lever, located in the operator cab, may be used to unlock the door from either its fully open position or its fully closed position. The skid steer vehicle may be operated effectively when the front access door is locked in the fully open position. |
| US08016344B2 |
Vehicle impact absorbing member
Provided is a shock absorber for a vehicle, which, when it is crushed, can break and open a part of the wall thereof earlier than the time of the break of an explosion inducing section, to thereby exclude the effect of the air being present inside a hollow portion and exhibit stable shock-absorbing capability and also maintain a satisfactory shock-absorbing capability over a wide range of temperature from a high temperature to a low temperature independently of the temperature of the open air. A shock absorber (1) is a hollow structure integrally molded through blow molding. The shock absorber (1) has at least one explosion inducing section (12). The explosion inducing section (12) comprises a protruded ridge (13) in a notch form formed on the surface of the wall of the shock absorber (1). The shock absorber (1) comprises a thermoplastic polymer alloy of a polyolefin type resin and an amorphous resin. |
| US08016339B2 |
Vehicle equipped with floor mat for loading platform
A floor mat for a loading platform placed on an upper surface of a floor of the loading platform of a vehicle. The floor mat is provided with a plurality of retaining holes formed near an edge of the floor surface and through which at least one load securing tool is inserted. |
| US08016337B2 |
Pick-up style utility vehicle with expandable cargo bed
A pick-up style utility vehicle according to the present invention has a front seat, a rear seat, and a cargo bed in this order from front. The cargo bed is changeable between an expanded state in which the cargo bed is expanded forward to a rear riding space in front of the cargo bed and a non-expanded state not occupying the rear riding space. The rear seat forms side panels of the expandable portions of the cargo bed in the expanded state. |
| US08016334B2 |
Bale lifting device for the handling of bales of fibrous material
A bale lifting device for the lifting, moving, and handling of cargo and/or bales of fibrous material such as hay. The bale lifting device having a pair of generally facing hydraulic cylinders configured for moving a pair of forks from a close inner position to a spaced apart outer position. |
| US08016333B2 |
Load hook arrangement
A load hook arrangement includes a carrying element for the load, which is pivotable between a dosed position and an open position, a first blocking element, which is pivotable between a blocking position for blocking the carrying element in its dosed position and a releasing position for allowing the carrying element to pivot into its open position, and a pivoting mechanism for pivoting the carrying element into its open position, wherein the load hook arrangement further includes a second blocking element, for blocking the carrying element in its closed position. This second blocking element can be in particular a magnet brake acting on the pivoting mechanism. Furthermore, the load hook arrangement can include a third blocking element for blocking the movement of the first blocking element. This third blocking element can be in particular an eccentric. |
| US08016331B2 |
Energy absorber with sidewall stabilizer ribs
A vehicle bumper system includes an elongated reinforcement beam for mounting to a vehicle frame and an energy absorber abutting a front surface of the reinforcement beam. The energy absorber includes longitudinally-elongated hollow crush lobes configured to crush and absorb energy upon a vehicle crash, the crush lobes including interconnected top, bottom, side and front walls. At least one opposing pair of the walls, such as the top and bottom walls, are elongated parallel a length of the beam to define enlarged areas that are generally unsupported, but the one pair of walls further include a plurality of spaced external ribs extending perpendicular to the length for stabilizing the enlarged areas. |
| US08016327B2 |
Bifurcated latching system
A bifurcated latching system for securing together first and second portions of an aircraft, the bifurcated latching system comprising a pin latch assembly and a pawl latch assembly. The pin latch assembly comprises a pin latch receptacle and a pin in mating engagement. The pawl latch assembly comprises a pawl latch receptacle and a pawl latch pin in mating engagement. The pawl latch assembly further comprises one or more pawls configured to releasably secure the matting engagement of the pawl latch receptacle and the pawl latch pin. |
| US08016324B2 |
Two-element tandem flexible joint
A flexible joint has an extension mounted to a housing for relative angular displacement. Two or more annular elastomeric flex elements are stacked in a co-axial fashion and joined mechanically to mount the extension to the housing so that the flex elements react in parallel to angular and axial displacements of the extension with respect to the housing so that tensile load upon the extension places each of the flex elements in compression to split and share the tensile load among the flex elements in proportion to their relative axial stiffnesses. Therefore, for a given housing size or footprint, the overall load capacity is increased, and the lifetime of the flexible joint is increased for a given load capacity. The flex elements may have a common center of rotation, and the flex elements may be disposed either on the same side of the center of rotation or on opposite sides. |
| US08016312B2 |
Wheeled motorcycle center stand
A wheeled center stand for motorcycles. The center stand incorporates a spine rotatably attached to a frame, and at least one leg rigidly attached to the spine. The frame is attached to a motorcycle frame cross-member. At least one wheel is rotatably mounted to an extreme of a leg opposite the spine. The center stand may be extended and retracted conventionally, using a foot lever mounted to one of the legs. The wheels may be swiveling wheels or non-swiveling wheels. In the preferred embodiment, each non-swiveling wheel was mounted at a 20 degree offset relative to a stand centerline. When extended, a motorcycle to which the wheeled center stand is mounted may be rotated relative to a surface upon which it rests, such as a garage floor, with a minimum of effort. Nut plates are also taught which facilitate the mounting of the stand to a motorcycle frame cross-member. |
| US08016307B2 |
Fender supporting structure of two-wheeled motor vehicle
A fender supporting structure of a two-wheeled motor vehicle capable of securing the rigidity of a mounting portion of a front fender and the rigidity of the entire front fender is provided, without enlarging the outer shape of the front fender more than necessary. In a fender supporting structure of a two-wheeled motor vehicle including a fender formed in an arc shape along the shape of a wheel, and a fender supporting member on which the fender is mounted from under the fender supporting member so as to cover an area above the wheel, at least two mounting surfaces at different levels in height are formed on the fender, at least two mounting surfaces at different levels in height are formed on the fender supporting member, and the fender is joined to the fender supporting member with these mounting surfaces. |
| US08016302B1 |
Human-powered tricycle system
A frame has rear, upper and front components. A rear wheel and two laterally spaced spindles with wheels are supported by the front frame component. A steering assembly includes a steering shaft, a handle bar and horizontal steering rods. The steering shaft has an upper end, a lower end and a central extent. The shaft is rotatably supported in the front frame component. The handle bar is coupled to the upper end of the steering shaft. The horizontal steering rods pivotally couple the lower end of the steering shaft to the steering rods. In this manner steering purposes is facilitated. A suspension assembly includes an upper and lower wishbone subassemblies. Each wishbone subassembly has front and rear wishbone arms. Two outboard carriers are provided. The carriers are adapted to function as parallelograms while riding. |
| US08016301B2 |
Stretcher foot pedal arrangement
A patient support apparatus includes a frame, a plurality of casters coupled to the frame, and a push handle that is coupled to the frame and that is gripable to maneuver the patient support apparatus along a floor. The patient support apparatus also has a brake handle that is coupled to the push handle and that is movable to brake at least one of the casters. A pedal arrangement for the patient support apparatus is also disclosed. The pedal arrangement includes first and second side pedals and a center pedal supported by the first and second side pedals. |
| US08016300B2 |
Mobile cart having a retractable-wheel base system
A mobile cart for carrying a plurality of fluid canisters. The cart includes a platform configured to support the fluid canisters. The cart also includes a base having a base body and a plurality of wheels movably connected to the base body so that the wheels can be selectively moved with respect to the base body between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the plurality of wheels extends from the base body so the cart can roll, on the plurality of wheels, over the support surface supporting the cart. In the retracted position, the plurality of wheels is retracted relative to the base body so that the cart cannot roll, on the plurality of wheels, over the support surface. |
| US08016299B2 |
Apparatus for shifting the center of gravity of a vehicle having three wheels or more
An apparatus for shifting the center of gravity of a vehicle having three wheels or more is provided. The apparatus includes: a movable frame having a certain shape and movably fixed, at one side, to a vehicle body in such a manner that a portion or all of the frame is movable to the left/right side relative to the driving direction of the vehicle body; and a control unit for controlling the left/right movement of the frame to shift the center of gravity of the vehicle body as needed, the control unit including: a cylindrical rotation body in which a portion of the inside thereof including the center of rotation is open; a rotation bar coaxially coupled to the center of rotation of the rotation body to rotate with the rotation body along with the rotation of the rotation body; a first link member rotatably coupled, at its one end, to the rotation bar included inside the rotation body; and second link members crossed each other, each second link member having opposite ends wherein one end is rotatably coupled to the other end of the first link member, and the other end is rotatably coupled to the upper portion of the frame, whereby the center of gravity is shifted and restored more easily, effectively, and precisely, and upon stopping, the movement of the vehicle body is precisely controlled. |
| US08016298B2 |
Chuck for flexible manufacturing
The invention relates to a chuck for flexible manufacturing, said chuck comprising a chuck body, a central draw head guided axially in a central hole of the chuck body and connected to inner jaws radially guided in the chuck body through a straight-wedge mechanism, and outer jaws also radially guided in the chuck body and adapted to be equipped with chuck jaws for chucking a work-piece and to be engaged with coupling heads through rack teeth. The coupling heads are built in the inner jaws and guided axially therein, wherein said coupling heads comprise a double locking coupling device. The first locking stage of said coupling device includes wedge-shaped control members fixed to a control ring, whereas the second locking stage includes an additional locking member directly connected to the control ring. The chuck body is in the form of a one-piece unit, wherein the control ring is encased by the chuck body and the rear centering disc so that the control ring can be rotated there-between. and the locking member of the second locking stage is in the form of a cylindrical stud-shaped lock guided in an axial hole of the control ring, said lock being connected, in its locked state, through its front surface, to an axially guided push-rod, wherein said push-rod is arranged in an entirely closed hole of the chuck body. |
| US08016296B2 |
Metal laminate gasket
A metal laminate gasket includes a first metal plate having a folded portion at a peripheral of a combustion chamber hole, a second metal plate provided in the folded portion, a third metal plate provided in the folded portion and having an extension portion extending outwardly from the folded portion, a fourth metal plate provided on a folded side of the first metal plate and partially overlapping a part of the extension portion of the third metal plate, and a fifth metal plate provided on the folded side of the first metal plate so that the fifth metal plate does not overlap the third metal plate. A bead is provided on at least one of the second and third metal plates and situated inside the folded portion. A total thickness of the metal laminate gasket declines in a stepwise fashion from the folded portion. |
| US08016293B2 |
Contaminant exclusion seal
A seal assembly for sealing a space between a rotating shaft and a housing. In this regard, the seal assembly includes a rotating component connected to the shaft, and a stationary component connected to the housing. A first seal is connected to the rotating component and a second seal is connected to the stationary component. The first seal includes at least one dispersion member that generates a fluid disturbance in a region adjacent the space during rotation of the rotating component. In this manner, any contaminants that may be prone to enter the space are dispersed away from the space and prevented from entering. |
| US08016288B1 |
Table game for exercising and fun
A new and novel design and improvements of an existing table game with paddles and opposite players. These improvements provide for a significantly superior game in the areas of no jarring to the players, less manufacturing cost, prevention of damaging the game while is being played, easier assembly, packaging, shipping and handling. These innovations include side paddle openings, new two piece construction, new straight line apex of playing surface and new ball tray system. These new and significant improvements provide for the existing game to be manufactured at a fraction of the cost and weight while significantly improving playability. |
| US08016287B2 |
Sheet stacking device and image forming device
A sheet stacking device for stacking conveyed sheets includes a stacking surface on which the sheets are stacked; a plurality of projections that project from the stacking surface. Wherein, the projections extend generally in a travel direction of the sheets, which is a direction in which the sheets travel when entering the sheet stacking device, the projections include outer projections and inner projections, the inner projections are located between the inner projections, and a projecting height of the inner projections from the stacking surface is greater than that of the outer projections. |
| US08016286B2 |
Method and apparatus for driving a fan wheel
A method and an apparatus for driving a fan wheel of a web-fed printing press is disclosed. The fan wheel is driven, at least in a predetermined time period (tv-tD) in the production cycle, at a fan wheel speed, which in addition to a rotary drive speed component is comprised of an oscillating speed component. |
| US08016283B2 |
Recording sheet feeder and image forming apparatus providing easy maintenance with simple structure
In a recording sheet feeder, a recording sheet tray moving mechanism moves a recording sheet tray between an upper position, at which an uppermost recording sheet of a plurality of recording sheets loaded on the recording sheet tray contacts a feed roller, and a lower position, at which the uppermost recording sheet separates from the feed roller. A first eccentric cam and a second eccentric cam rotate to press down the recording sheet tray. A driving force switch member drives the recording sheet tray moving mechanism when a driver rotates in a first direction, and rotates a feed roller driving shaft mounted with the feed roller when the driver rotates in a second direction. |
| US08016281B1 |
Mail-processing machine
In the case of a mail-processing machine having a conveying path (1) which contains a circulating conveying chain and conveys onto a handling station (5), easy changeover to a variety of processing tasks and good adaptability to constricted space conditions are achieved in that, by a switchable actuating arrangement, manipulator fingers (19) articulated on a manipulator hand (13), in the handling station (5), can be switched both into the operating position both for the forward stroke of the manipulator hand and for the return stroke of the manipulator hand and into the return position both for the return stroke of the manipulator hand and for the forward stroke of the manipulator hand. Free through-passage-channel areas (32, 33) for sheet like article and sets thereof which are to be processed further or are to be inserted into envelopes are provided in the handling station, not only with regard to the direction (F) from the feeding conveying chain and to a laterally adjacent first processing arrangement but also in the opposite direction perpendicular to the feed direction of the first conveying chain. |
| US08016278B2 |
Cam actuated clamp
A clamp including an upper body including a proximal end, a distal end, and an upper fulcrum, the upper fulcrum being positioned between the proximal end and the distal end of the upper body, wherein the distal end of the upper body includes an upper jaw, a lower body including a proximal end, a distal end, and a lower fulcrum, the lower fulcrum being positioned between the proximal end and the distal end of the lower body, wherein the distal end of the lower body includes a lower jaw, an edge pusher having an upper projection pivotally engaged with the upper fulcrum and a lower projection pivotally engaged with the lower fulcrum, an actuating lever pivotally connected to the upper body, the actuating lever including a cam lobe moveable relative to the lower body to displace the proximal end of the lower body away from the proximal end of the upper body, and a biasing element positioned to bias the upper jaw away from the lower jaw. |
| US08016271B2 |
Gaseous effluent treatment apparatus
The invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of gaseous effluents, such as those originating from the production of semi-conductors involving contact with a liquid. The inventive apparatus consists of: a gas/liquid contact chamber which can receive a liquid in the lower part thereof and which is topped with a gas cover, said chamber comprising means for introducing a gas to be treated and means for releasing residual gases following treatment involving contact with the liquid; turbine-type gas/liquid contacting means comprising one or more stages which ensure improved contact between the gas and the liquid, the upper part of said means being equipped with an opening for drawing the gas situated in the gas cover above the liquid; and, preferably, means for measuring the pH of the liquid. |
| US08016267B2 |
Wire puller and conduit adapter
An improved wire puller uses a first and second position-able arms and may include an adapter and adapter bracket to allow for easier pulling of wire through conduit. The wire puller allows for easier set up and use and provides increased pulling force over existing wire pullers. |
| US08016265B2 |
Valve assembly having a unitary valve sleeve
A valve assembly preferably including a housing having a recess and a flange face and a valve sleeve disposed within the recess. The sleeve preferably includes an annulus having an outer surface and an inner surface that defines a passageway about a central axis, the outer and inner surfaces being radially spaced from one another to define a wall. The wall has a first end portion and a second end portion axially spaced from the first end portion, and homogenous material properties from the first end portion to the second end portion. Preferably, the first end portion defines a lip for supporting the annulus in the recess and further defines a first chamber that encases at least a portion of a first support member. The second end portion preferably defines a flange portion along the outer surface for engaging the flange and further defines a second chamber that encases at least a portion of a second support member. |
| US08016263B2 |
Ejector valve machine
A fast opening, stand alone pressure relief valve (200) for providing pressure relief for a vessel in which the valve (200) is installed. The valve has an ejector (216) and a sleeve structure (210) in which the ejector (216) moves. The ejector (216) is constructed of a material that will expand outward slightly upon pressurization to increase friction between staging glands (202) provided on the sleeve structure (210) and buckling glands (206) provided on the ejector (216). Also, as pressure on the ejector (216) increases, the buckling rings (206) deform slightly allowing them to release their grip on the staging glands (202) and move past them. Once the buckling rings (206) move past the staging glands (202), the pressurized ejector (216) quickly moves to its open position, i.e. opening within 2 and 3 milliseconds, thereby releasing the pressure on the vessel. |
| US08016261B2 |
Safety air valve of a receiving bag
A safety air valve of a receiving bag includes an upper valve body, a valve seat and a valve gate. The upper valve body is installed inside the receiving bag. A first thread is formed at the protrusion stayed closely to the interior of the receiving bag. The first thread penetrates out the receiving bag; and a first main air channel is formed in the bottom of the first thread penetrating into the receiving bag so as to form a stepped valve opening on the top of the first main air channel. A second thread is formed at the valve seat corresponding to the first thread of the upper valve body. The second thread is screwed into the first thread and is positioned at the outer side of the receiving bag. The second thread has a press body corresponding to a first main air channel of the upper valve body. |
| US08016260B2 |
Metering assembly and method of dispensing fluid
A metering assembly includes a fluidic chip and metering chambers. Selectable outlet valves communicate with each metering chamber to provide a discrete dispensed volume. The valves may be commonly controlled and may be formed as multi-level valves. The valves may be grouped into common substrate valve clusters. Purge channels communicate with the metering chambers and controlled purge valves allow reverse flow wash fluid to wash the metering chamber. Pressure ports are employed to actuate the valves. A method of dispensing a fluid from the fluidic chip includes a) selectively filling (or filling) the metering chambers with a selected fluid; and b) outputting (or selectively outputting) the fluid to output locations. The total output volume of fluid dispensed from each metering chamber may be accumulated. The process may be repeated until the accumulated volume equals the desired volume and may be repeated for another fluid from a plurality of different fluids. |
| US08016255B2 |
Portable electronic device and magnetic fixation board therefor
The present invention discloses a portable electronic device and magnetic fixation board therefor. The magnetic fixation board is disposed on a surface of a wall or a casing of an electrical product. The portable electronic device has at least one first magnetic element and the magnetic fixation board has at least one second magnetic element. The second and the first magnetic elements magnetically attract each other and the portable electronic device is attached to the magnetic fixation board. Based on the attraction interaction between the first magnetic element of the portable electronic device and the second magnetic element of the magnetic fixation board, when the portable electronic device is standing idle, users can directly locate the portable electronic device on the magnetic fixation board in the attraction mode and arrange the portable electronic device conveniently, thereby improving the impressions of using electrical products. |
| US08016254B2 |
Piezoelectric actuated gimbal
A gimbal is described and which includes a fixed base member defining an axis of rotation; a second member concentrically oriented relative to the axis of rotation; a linear actuator oriented in immediate, adjoining force transmitting relation relative to the base member or to the second member, and which applies force along a linear axis which is tangential to the axis of rotation so as to cause the second member to rotate coaxially relative to the fixed base member; and an object of interest mounted to the second member such that the object of interest is selectively moved relative to the base member about the axis of rotation. |
| US08016248B2 |
Aircraft wing spoiler arrangement
An aircraft wing comprising an upper surface; and two or more spoilers pivotally attached to the upper surface, wherein at least two adjacent ones of the spoilers are separated by a gap, and wherein the width of the gap is: greater than 1 cm; and sufficiently small to choke the flow of air through the gap such that for at least one flight regime with the adjacent spoilers deployed, the average air flow speed through the gap is less than 10% of the true air speed. The reduced size of the spoilers reduces the spanwise wing loading and the spoiler hinge moment, while providing a net aerodynamic effect (in terms of destroying lift over the wing) similar to that of a conventional spoiler array with no gaps. |
| US08016246B2 |
Plasma actuator system and method for use with a weapons bay on a high speed mobile platform
A system and method for controlling a freestream air flow over a surface of an airborne mobile platform, for example an aircraft. In one implementation the system includes a plurality of plasma actuators used on an undersurface of a fuselage of an aircraft upstream of a weapons bay of the aircraft. When the plasma actuators are energized an induced flow is created adjacent the actuators. The induced flow operates to deflect the shear layer created when the freestream air flow moves over the weapons bay (while the bay doors are open), away from the weapons bay. This significantly reduces the oscillating acoustic pressure waves that would normally be produced if the shear layer turns into the weapons bay. The system and method significantly reduces acoustic noise inside the weapons bay and improves separation of ordnance from the weapons bay. |
| US08016245B2 |
Dynamic bumps for drag reduction at transonic-supersonic speeds
A system for reducing overall drag of a mobile platform includes a surface on which an airflow forms a boundary layer and a generally normal shockwave. The airflow is at a first velocity that is one of transonic and supersonic. An oscillating jet injects and extracts a jet flow through the surface. The jet flow is at a second velocity that is substantially less than the first velocity. A recirculation region is upstream of the normal shockwave and is disposed at least partially in the boundary layer. The recirculation region is established at least by the oscillating jet. A generally oblique wave is established by the recirculation region and weakens the normal shockwave to reduce the overall drag experienced by the surface. |
| US08016244B2 |
Active systems and methods for controlling an airfoil vortex
Active systems and methods for controlling aircraft vortices are disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment is directed to an aircraft system that includes an airfoil having first and second oppositely facing flow surfaces and a tip. The system can further include a vortex dissipation device carried by the airfoil, with the vortex dissipation device including an orifice positioned to direct a flow of fluid outwardly from the tip, an actuator operatively coupled to the fluid flow orifice and positioned to change a manner in which flow is directed outwardly from the tip, and a controller operatively coupled to the actuator to direct the operation of the actuator. The vortex dissipation device can be activated to accelerate the rate at which vortices (e.g., wing tip vortices) dissipate after they are generated, for example, by alternately pulsing flow inwardly and outwardly through the fluid flow orifice. |
| US08016243B2 |
Aircraft backup control
A method is disclosed for controlling an aircraft when the hydraulic system of the aircraft has been compromised. The method may include resealing at least one gain vector of a digital fly-by-wire, lower-order, full-state feedback control in at least one axis. The gain(s) may then used by a digital control to modulate engine thrust. In this manner, engine thrust modulation may be used for stabilization and control of control-configured aircraft without requiring a substantial change in piloting technique. |
| US08016240B2 |
Satellites and satellite fleet implementation methods and apparatus
A method for implementing a satellite fleet includes launching a group of satellites within a launch vehicle. In an embodiment, the satellites are structurally connected together through satellite outer load paths. After separation from the launch vehicle, nodal separation between the satellites is established by allowing one or more of the satellites to drift at one or more orbits having apogee altitudes below an operational orbit apogee altitude. A satellite is maintained in an ecliptic normal attitude during its operational life, in an embodiment. The satellite's orbit is efficiently maintained by a combination of axial, radial, and canted thrusters, in an embodiment. Satellite embodiments include a payload subsystem, a bus subsystem, an outer load path support structure, antenna assembly orientation mechanisms, an attitude control subsystem adapted to maintain the satellite in the ecliptic normal attitude, and an orbit maintenance/propulsion subsystem adapted to maintain the satellite's orbit. |
| US08016239B2 |
Safety pre-impact deceleration system for vehicles
A safety pre-impact deceleration system for a variety of conveyances includes a parachute structure formed from air bags inflated with gas. Alternatively, the parachute structure includes a canopy with orifices. Air spaces in the parachute structure or orifices in the canopy have adjustable and selective dimensions to control the operational parameters of the vehicle. The system includes sensors and rapid exposure rate cameras with continuous loop recording to measure operational parameters of the vehicle and to predict possible collision. Once a collision condition is detected, audio/video images are stored on storage media. The air bags are deployed and inflated. In addition to air bags constituting the parachute structure, a plurality of air bags are provided to be deployed external the vehicle to aid in a safe landing. |
| US08016236B2 |
Method and apparatus for attaching a wing to a body
A method and apparatus for assembling an aircraft. A wing spar fitting is connected to a spar in a wing for the aircraft. A body frame fitting is connected to a frame in a body for the aircraft. The locations and orientations of the body frame fitting and the wing spar fitting allow for the body frame fitting to be attached to the wing spar fitting when the wing is positioned for attachment to the body of the aircraft. The wing is positioned with respect to the body of the aircraft for attachment to the body. The body frame fitting and the wing spar fitting are attached to each other with a set of fasteners after the body frame fitting is aligned to the wing spar fitting without penetrating any sealed areas in the wing, wherein the wing is attached to the body by a mechanical joint that is formed by the body frame fitting and the wing spar fitting. |
| US08016230B2 |
Fastner-free primary structural joint for sandwich panels
Techniques for providing fastener-free primary structural joint for sandwich panels are disclosed. In one embodiment, a technique includes positioning a first panel having a first edge portion proximate a second panel having a second edge portion such that the first and second edge portions cooperatively form an interior recess on an interior side of the first and second panels, applying adhesive to at least one of the recessed interior side of the panel assembly and a plug configured to occupy the interior recess, inserting the plug into the interior recess, the plug including a cap that extends beyond the interior recess and overlaps adjacent portions of the first and second panels, applying adhesive to at least one of a splice and an exterior side opposite from the interior side, and attaching the splice on the exterior side. |
| US08016229B2 |
Retracting air cushioned landing system for air vehicles
A hybrid air vehicle is disclosed in which a cover is provided for a plurality of air cushioned landing pads to reduce drag when airborne. The pad is inflatable to provide an air cushioned during touchdown and deflatable during flight of the air vehicle. The cover can include a first cover portion and a second cover portion. A first cover roller of the first cover portion and a matching second cover roller of the second cover portion abut to cover the corresponding pad. The first cover roller and the second cover roller, which are separate and free from a physical linkage there between, are separable in an eyelid fashion to expose the corresponding pad. A separation gap between the first cover roller and the second cover roller is increased or decreased by roller straps to cover or expose the corresponding pad. |
| US08016228B2 |
Combined fuel cell aircraft auxiliary power unit and environmental control system
Combined aircraft hybrid fuel cell auxiliary power unit and environmental control system and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes chemically converting a portion of combustible fuel into electrical energy. An unutilized portion of fuel emitted by the chemical conversion of combustible fuel is combusted to thermal power. The heated gas is used to drive a power recovery turbine connected to a drive shaft. A source of input oxidizing gas is compressed and is used to help chemically convert the combustible fuel into electrical energy. The heated gas is used to mechanically drive the power recovery turbine which is coupled to a generator to produce electrical energy. |
| US08016221B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for dynamic tape stick and tape break detection
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for dynamic tape stick and tape break detection. A first counter increments a first count and resets a second count in response to a sensor pulse from a first sensor of a first tape servo. A second counter increments the second count and resets the first count in response to a sensor pulse from a second sensor of a second tape servo. A detection module detects either the first count or the second count exceeding an error threshold. |
| US08016211B2 |
Pintle-controlled propulsion system with external ring actuator
A propulsion system with a divergent-convergent nozzle is provided with variable thrust by a pintle whose position relative to the nozzle throat is controlled by an actuator that includes a rotor that external to, and encircling, the nozzle, and that is coupled to either the pintle or to the nozzle shell by a linkage that translates the rotary movement of the rotor into linear movement of either the pintle or the shell. |
| US08016209B2 |
Liquid droplet plug and spray system
The present invention concerns a liquid droplet spray system for atomizing a liquid substance, comprising: a support having a central aperture (27), a liquid droplet spray device in which a space is provided, the space being arranged to receive the liquid substance, and including a nozzle body (28) covering the space such that the liquid substance may exit the space of the device by traversing the nozzle body (28) and the system by traversing the central aperture (27) of the support, a reservoir (33) for containing the liquid substance. |
| US08016199B2 |
Illumination devices for image acquisition systems
An apparatus for imaging a symbol associated with an object which includes a housing and an imaging module connected to the housing, where the imaging module includes at least one lens for creating an image of the symbol. The imaging module further has a sensor for sensing the image. An electroluminescent light sheet is connected to the housing, and the electroluminescent light sheet provides at least one of dark field illumination and bright field illumination. |
| US08016197B2 |
Code reading device, code reading program storage medium and code reading method
A code reading device includes an acquisition section, a derivation section and a correction section. The acquisition section reads a two-dimensional code image and acquires image information representing the two-dimensional code image. The derivation section derives an image characteristic quantity representing a ratio between a number of white pixels and a number of black pixels for a pre-specified region of the image information acquired by the acquisition section. The correction section, on the basis of a result of comparison of the image characteristic quantity derived by the derivation section with a reference value corresponding to the pre-specified region, applies correction to the image information to bring the image characteristic quantity closer to the reference value. |
| US08016193B2 |
Transaction product with storage chamber
A transaction product includes a housing and an account identifier. The housing includes a first member, which defines a primary panel and a side wall extending around the primary panel to define a storage chamber, and a second member slidably coupled with the first member. The second member is configured to slide relative to the first member between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the second member covers the storage chamber, and in the open position, the storage chamber is readily accessible. The second member slides relative to the first member between the open position and the closed position in a direction substantially perpendicular to an extension of the side wall from the primary panel of the first member. The account identifier links the housing to an account or record and is machine readable. Other cards, products, assemblies and associated methods are also disclosed. |
| US08016185B2 |
Money transfer service with authentication
A bank (or merchant) hosts and operates an online money transfer service (or “portal”). A sender logs into the portal and enters payment card and money transfer details and then submits the transaction. An authentication window appears displaying the sender's transaction details and the sender is prompted to enter his or her password. Upon successful authentication, the bank seeks authorization from the card issuer. Upon successful authorization, the bank credits the recipient's local bank account or existing payment card. The recipient can also receive a check, a draft, a prepaid card or cash. The money transfer service is used both cross-border and domestic to effect person-to-person money transfer. The money transfer service uses the “Verified by Visa” authentication service and VisaNet for authorization. Messages over VisaNet are used to deliver funds to a recipient. |
| US08016184B2 |
Method for manufacturing electronic component module
A method for manufacturing an electronic component module is performed such that a shield layer can be formed as a thin film and an electronic component can be effectively shielded. A collective substrate including a plurality of electronic component modules including a plurality of electronic components is batch-sealed with a resin. A cut section is formed from a top surface of the sealed resin to a position that reaches a grounding electrode arranged in the substrate at a boundary section of the electronic component module so as to expose the grounding electrode. A conductive paste is applied on side surfaces and the top surface. Then, a conductive thin film is formed by spin coating, and the electronic component module is cut. |
| US08016178B2 |
Surgical stapling apparatus
A loading unit for use with a surgical stapling apparatus is provided and includes a tool assembly having a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly that are movable in relation to one another; a surgical buttress releasably secured to a tissue contacting surface of the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly, wherein each surgical buttress is secured to the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly by at least one anchor; a release assembly associated with the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly; and a drive assembly slidably translatable through the tool assembly between proximal and distal positions, wherein the drive assembly actuates the release assembly to thereby release the anchor to free the surgical buttress from the anvil assembly and/or the cartridge assembly. |
| US08016175B2 |
Attachment for stitching tool
The attachment for a stitching tool is an attachment that enables a manually operated stitching tool to convert to a power-operated stitching tool. The attachment includes an ergonomically designed handle mounted on a base, which base is provided with an opening at one end thereof. The opening is designed to receive the grasping portions of a manually operated, conventional stitching tool. Mechanisms in the base engage the grasping portions of the stitching tool to mechanically manipulate the grasping portions. The mechanisms are powered by an electric motor. Controls are provided on the handle for operating the electric motor. |
| US08016172B1 |
Storage rack assembly for vehicle
A storage rack assembly in kit form is particularly adapted for use on a vehicle and includes a small number of different types of components to simplify shipping, assembly and installation by a purchaser. The storage rack includes side, front and back generally flat panels connected together to form a generally rectangular structure. Opposed side panels are connected to opposed ends of plural elongated cross members which are arranged in a spaced manner along the length of the rectangular structure and are aligned in a common plane to form a flat support bed in the storage rack. Plural telescoping support/mounting members are each connected to a respective cross member to allow for varying the storage rack's width depending on vehicle size and are adapted for secure attachment to the vehicle. Incorporating additional interfitting side panels and cross members allows for increasing the storage rack's length. |
| US08016166B2 |
Coffee and tea dosing system
A doser for dispensing a predetermined dose of material. The doser may include an agitation device, with the material stored in the agitation device, and a dosing block cooperating with the agitation system. |
| US08016162B2 |
Condiment bottle
A bottle formed of a food-grade plastic material, such as clear polyethylene terephthalate includes a frustoconical neck portion, a shoulder region, a base region, and a sidewall portion have opposed grip-enhancing surfaces, and elastically deformable pressure panels. A cap for the container may include a valve to control product leakage, and may be sized to allow inversion of the bottle. A generally trapezoidal tab of the cap moves between a closed position covering a cap orifice and an open position outside the plane of the cap. |
| US08016161B2 |
Package and dispensing system
A package (10) for the storage and dispensing of a plurality of materials includes a first and a second longitudinally juxtaposed barrels (11, 12). Each barrel (11, 12) having a first and a second end (20, 21). Each first and second barrels (11, 12) having a quantity of at least one of the materials initially contained therein, and each barrel having an open end (20) and a dispensing end (21). A sealing plunger (40) disposed in each barrel (11, 12) such that the material in each barrel (11, 12) is initially positioned between the dispensing end (21) of the barrels (11, 12) and the respective ones of the sealing plungers (40). A snap cap (23) is contiguously formed to initially close each of the dispensing ends (21) of the barrels (11, 12), such that the snap cap (23) may be broken from the barrels (11, 12) to thereby forming a secondary open end (22) at the dispensing end (21) of the barrels (11, 12), thereby facilitating the material contained in each barrel (11, 12) to flow through and be dispensed. |
| US08016160B2 |
Refrigerator related technology
A refrigerator includes a dispenser to dispense water or ice, a door handle positioned below the dispenser, and a tray mounted to the door handle in a position to receive at least some water or ice dispensed from the dispenser. The tray coupled to the door handle attached to the door may receive excess or residue water or ice dispensed from the dispenser without deterioration of the exterior appearance of the door. |
| US08016159B2 |
Twist open closure having inclined frangible membrane
A closure for a container having an opening includes a base cap and an overcap that form a chamber adjacent the opening which is sealed from the contents of the container by a frangible membrane having an inclined line of weakness and by a hinge member having a pocket extending downward adjacent lower and upper terminuses of the line of weakness. The overcap includes a cutting member received within the pocket that severs the line of weakness upon substantial rotation of the overcap with respect to the base cap. A pushing member may cooperate with a cam member to deflect open the membrane upon severance. The pocket may include a stop for the cutting member. The base cap may include a cylindrical structure having an upwardly inwardly projection member to form a seal with an thickened upper portion of the overcap skirt to protect against penetration into the chamber. |
| US08016151B2 |
Fluid controlled containment berm system
A fluid controlled containment berm system for automatically forming a containment berm to contain hazardous liquid spills involving a vehicle. The fluid controlled containment berm system includes a liner including a floor and a sidewall, a buoyant member attached to an upper portion of the liner, and a pair of diffuser members attached between the floor and the sidewall. |
| US08016146B2 |
Spill resistant caps and container systems
A spill resistant cap for a container, such as a commercially available water or other beverage bottle, includes a cap body that forms a mating fit with the container and a spout having liquid dispense holes that allow fluid to flow out of the container. A removable valve is sized to fit within the cap body. The valve includes a valve mechanism that opens in response to a pressure differential applied across the valve face, such as the mouth suction applied to the spout when a person attempts to drink from the container, allowing fluid to flow through the valve and through the liquid dispense holes in the spout. |
| US08016145B2 |
Collapsible bulk container
A stackable collapsible container for flowable materials. The container has a flexible outer skin and rigid support, having a top frame and bottom frame connected by poles. The top frame and bottom frame are designed for mating engagement when the containers are stacked, as well as for mating engagement when the containers are broken down for transport. The top frame and bottom frame are provided with similar perimeters to prevent undesired movement and contact between adjacent top frame when the containers are filled and transported. |
| US08016144B2 |
Wood joint for a barrelhead
A wood joint is disclosed which comprises a first heading having a first profile comprising an upper socket, a lower socket, and a flat section intermediate the sockets, a second heading having a second profile comprising an upper socket, a lower socket, and a flat section intermediate the sockets, and a spline member having a pair of tongue portions with each of the tongue portions having an upper lobe and a lower lobe, the spline member for fitting within the first profile and the second profile. |
| US08016143B2 |
Stopper with an obstuctor for a can and method for the production of said stopper
The invention relates to a stopper, provided with an obstructor (1), for a can. Said stopper comprises a cap (3) provided with a central opening (5) and an annular skirt (7), and an annular shaft (17) extending around the opening, in addition to a capsule (19) which is detachably fixed, by means of a tear element (23), to a free edge (25) of the shaft opposite the opening. The tear element joining the shaft to the capsule is placed in an entrance area at an angle in the free edge of the shaft. At least one sealing lip (37) is disposed on the inner surface of the shaft, and the cap, skirt and capsule of the stopper are molded in a single piece without any welding or the addition of another component or detachable part. The invention also relates to a method for the production of said stopper by offset injection in a region which is outside the cap. |
| US08016141B2 |
Locking cross bar
A cross bar forming a support surface between parallel deck beams of rack-type storage systems to create storage shelves, the cross bars being lockable and readily removable and reusable. |
| US08016140B2 |
Combination shelf whose support boards can be increased
A combination shelf includes a plurality of upright posts, a plurality of mounting sleeves each detachably mounted on the respective upright post, at least one mounting frame mounted between the upright posts and detachably locked onto the mounting sleeves, a plurality of mounting brackets each detachably mounted on the respective upright post, and a plurality of support boards mounted between the upright posts and supported by the mounting frame and the mounting brackets. Thus, the mounting brackets are detachably mounted on the upright posts to support the support boards so that the support boards are selectively mounted between the upright posts, and the number of the support boards can be adjusted freely and randomly according to a user's practical requirement. |
| US08016139B2 |
Glide system with adjustable dividers and modular floor members
A variable shelf organizer glide system for merchandising products therefrom capable of being assembled to accommodate any shelf length and width and any product dimension including a plurality of cooperatively engageable adjustable floor members having a plurality of transverse projection members associated with each respective track rib, the transverse projection members extending laterally across only a portion of the respective longitudinal slots formed between adjacent track ribs, and a plurality of adjustable divider members, each divider member being selectively engageable with the transverse projection members to form any number of segregated product channels for arranging products therebetween. Each floor member includes frangible break-away portions for adjusting the overall length thereof, and each divider member includes a frangible break-away front product stop member as well as a plurality of frangible break-away rear portions for likewise controlling the overall length of each divider member. |
| US08016135B2 |
Product display support systems and methods
A display support system for supporting product for retail display from an appliance defining a magnetically attractable display surface, a door surface, and a magnetically attractable upper surface and comprising a door arranged to allow access to an interior of the appliance through the door surface. The display support system comprises an accessory, a structure comprising a front portion and a rear portion, and a magnetic portion. The accessory is adapted to support the product for retail display. The front portion is adapted to support the accessory such that the accessory extends from the display surface of the appliance. The rear portion rigidly is connected to the front portion and extends along and engages the upper surface of the appliance to bear downward loads on the front portion. The magnetic portion magnetically secures the structure relative to the appliance and inhibits movement of the front portion away from the display surface. |
| US08016132B2 |
Side-entry stemmed glassware rack
A side-entry stemmed glassware rack for storing and displaying stemmed glassware. Stemmed glassware is hung in the conventional, inverted manner except that the base of the glassware is inserted into a main track of the rack the via an intersecting side track rather than only from one or both ends of the main track. |
| US08016130B2 |
Tool rack
This invention discloses a set of tool rack which can particularly place multiple wrenches. It is mainly comprised of a main frame, a front cover panel and two locking members. The main frame includes an axial rod, a connecting plate and two side plates. The axial rod provides the openings of the wrenches to hold on. Each side plate includes a guiding slot and a locking hole. The guiding slot starts from the rear end of the side plate, extended around the axis of the axial rod, and then ends to the front end of the side plate. Between the two side plates are multiple receiving recesses for the shanks of the wrenches to be engaged. The front cover panel includes a cover plate and two curved side plates having protruding columns inserted over the guiding slot so that the cover plate is moveable along the guiding slots. |
| US08016122B2 |
Pot or pan lid with a draining function and a large area view
A culinary vessel lid in the form of a cover that is adapted for covering the vessel and that includes a transparent covering part, a metal covering part provided with through openings intended for draining foods and a silicone retaining ring. |
| US08016117B2 |
System and method for eliminating emissions from an air classification device
An air classification device for separation of solids comprising an input system, a first solid separator system, an output system, and an emission containing system. The emission containing system employs supplemental air lines, a supplemental air source, and high-velocity air knives to create negative air pressure at any opening in the device. The negative air pressure induces air to move into the device and prevents polluted air from escaping the device at the openings. |
| US08016111B2 |
Reusable shopping bag assembly
A reusable shopping bag assembly includes handle structure for use with a plurality of reusable shopping bags. The handle structure includes a handle frame with a pair of tubular sleeves extending therefrom in spaced relation to support a plurality of the reusable shopping bags having sleeve receiving holes therethrough and a pair of caps connected to the frame by cords and removably positioned on the sleeves the retain the bags thereon. The sleeves are spaced apart and bores therethrough are sized and shaped to enable the handle structure with a plurality of reusable shopping bags thereon to be positioned on a rack holding store bags to facilitate placement of merchandise in the reusable bags. |
| US08016109B2 |
Package box, cushion and plate material
A package box including an outer box and at least two cushions disposed symmetrically in the outer box is provided. The cushion includes a rectangular bottom plate, two short side plates, a partition plate, a concave structure and a box structure. The short side plates are connected perpendicularly with the short sides of the bottom plate respectively. The partition plate divides the cushion into a first rectangular sub-body and a second rectangular sub-body. The concave structure forms a container space caved in the first rectangular sub-body to contain a first article therein. The box structure on the second rectangular sub-body can be opened or closed to contain a second article in the second rectangular sub-body. |
| US08016106B2 |
Rigid transparent tackle box with vertical storage for large-scale lures
A storage system comprises a bottom, a plurality of sides, a cover and a plurality of vertical dividers. The sides are fixed to the bottom and the cover is located to have open and closed positions with respect to the sides, opposite the bottom. The vertical dividers are arranged in first and second transverse orientations between the sides, forming vertical storage units for hanging lures. A plurality of ventilation and drainage holes are formed in the bottom panel, and the top and at least two of the sides are transparent to visible light. Each of the bottom, sides, and cover is formed of an impact-resistant thermoplastic having a thickness of at least 4 mm, such that the cover supports a weight of at least 220 lbs when in the closed position. |
| US08016104B2 |
Two-compartment container having depressible flexible dome for rupturing layer between compartments
A two-compartment container in which the first compartment has an upper layer and a lower layer and contains a first component that is to be added to the second compartment. Above the first compartment is a dome that is bowed upward and is flexible. Depressing the dome by pushing downward on it causes the lower layer of the first compartment to be ruptured without cutting or rupturing the upper layer, releasing the first component into the second compartment. |
| US08016101B2 |
Belt junction conveyor
A change-over mechanism causing a main support frame and a sub support frame to rotate is made up of a drive motor, a rotating body, and coupling rods. One end of the coupling rod is coupled to the rotating body, and the other end thereof is coupled to the main support frame. One end of the coupling rod is coupled to the rotating body, and the other end thereof is coupled to the sub support frame. When a belt junction conveyor is changed over between a first and a second transfer states, one of the coupling rods is pushed out and the other one is pulled by the rotating body rotating by an activation of the drive motor, so that the main and the sub support frames are rotated in the opposite direction from each other, and a direction of transport of products by an endless belt is changed over. |
| US08016099B2 |
Device for transporting freight
A device for transporting freight, especially freight containers in the cargo compartments of aircraft, especially to a power drive unit (PDU) having a drive roller (3) received in a frame (1) wherein the at least one drive roller (3) carrying the drive roll (4) placed thereon is mounted so as to be pivoted relative to the frame for the purpose of replacing the drive roll (4). |
| US08016097B2 |
Escalator linear belt handrail drive
An escalator handrail drive arrangement includes a drive belt (26) mounted within a drive housing (35). Pressure rollers (30) are mounted in pairs and pivotally attached to the drive housing. The pressure rollers bias a handrail (22) against the drive belt. The pressure roller arrangements are mounted at each axial end. A spring (44) biases the pressure roller arrangements against the handrail, with the spring being centered along the axial length of the pressure rollers. This spring is preferably mounted within the drive housing such that no additional space is required outwardly of the drive and roller arrangement to accommodate the spring. |
| US08016096B2 |
Vehicle conveyor with maintenance support device
A conveyor for a construction vehicle includes a frame removably connectable with the vehicle. The frame includes front and rear ends, first and second sides extending between the two ends, and upper and lower surfaces extending between the front and rear ends. An endless belt is disposed generally about the frame and at least one support member is connected with the frame. The support member has a first, vertical portion connected with the frame first side and a second, horizontal portion extending generally beneath the frame lower surface and being disposable upon a base surface. The support member is configured to retain the entire frame and the belt spaced generally above the base surface so as to facilitate removal of the belt from the frame and alternatively facilitate installation of the belt upon the frame. The support member may include an L-shaped bended bar. |
| US08016094B2 |
Centrifugal clutch and straddle type vehicle including the centrifugal clutch
To centrifugal clutch with reduced size, which facilitates reduced width of a straddle type vehicle, includes a clutch housing on which an outer plate is mounted, and a clutch boss on which an inner plate is mounted. A roller weight is provided between the clutch housing and a rightmost outer plate. A cam surface formed on the clutch housing guides the roller weight in a direction such that the outer plate and the inner plate are press-fitted together when the roller weight moves outward in a radial direction of a secondary sheave shaft. A cam surface formed on the rightmost outer plate guides the roller weight outward in the radial direction and toward the cam surface with respect to an axial direction when the roller weight moves outward in the radial direction of the secondary sheave shaft. |
| US08016093B2 |
Electronically-controlled hydraulically-actuated coupling
A power transmission device includes a rotatable input member, a rotatable output member, a clutch assembly to selectively transfer torque between the input member and the output member, and a controller for controlling the clutch assembly. The controller controls the clutch assembly based at least partly on a torque request. |
| US08016092B2 |
Magneto-rheological clutch and wheel transmission apparatuses and methods
Magneto-rheological clutch and wheel transmission apparatuses and methods are provided. According to one aspect, a magneto-rheological clutch system can include first and second drive members and first and second driven members. A first gap can be present between the first drive and first driven members. A second gap can be present between the second drive and second driven members. A drive wheel and a snow blower impeller can be connected to the first and second driven member, respectively. First and second MR fluids can be disposed in the first and second gaps, respectively. A first magnetic field can be applied to the first MR fluid for engaging the drive wheel. A second magnetic field can be applied to the second MR fluid for engaging the snow blower impeller. The provided apparatuses and methods can also be applied to mower blades and wheels. |
| US08016091B2 |
Solid stop leaf spring
A piston plate stop for a torque converter including: a flexible connection element with a first end and a second end, the first end arranged to connect to a piston plate for the torque converter, the second end arranged to rotationally connect to a cover for the torque converter and a stop disposed on the flexible connection element. The stop is arranged to restrict axial movement of the piston plate. In some aspects, the flexible connection element is arranged to rotationally connect the cover and the piston plate. A torque converter including a piston plate; a cover; and at least one flexible connection element rotationally connecting the piston plate and the cover. The flexible connection element has a tab that is positioned to limit axial displacement of the piston plate away from the cover. |
| US08016089B1 |
Combination suitcase and chair apparatus
The combination suitcase and chair apparatus provides a suitcase typical in appearance to many others. However, somewhat hidden within the suitcase are the four legs and the section leg that provide for the apparatus to be used as a chair. The four legs telescope and provide for the first section to be the adjustable height chair bottom. The section leg pivots and telescopes from the second section such that the second section is an adjustably angled chair back. The section leg is removably covered by a flap substantially like the flaps that cover the four legs of the first section. Importantly, both the first section and second section have a removable cushioned mat. The mats provide cushioned comfort and also provide for covering the cavity within each section. The cavities are used as would be those in a typical suitcase. |
| US08016083B2 |
Disk brake
A pad spring located at the entrance side in the rotational direction of a disk is provided with guide plate portions, radially urging portions that urge a pair of friction pads radially outward of the disk, and circumferentially urging portions that urge the friction pads in the rotational direction of the disk. Each radially urging portion has a projection bent radially inward of the disk. Each guide plate portion has a space portion that allows the projection to abut against the radially inner wall surface of the associated pad guide when the radially urging portion is displaced radially inward of the disk so as to approach the guide plate portion. The circumferentially urging portions are wide plate-shaped members bent from the guide plate portions. |
| US08016082B2 |
Disc brake operating mechanism
An actuating lever of a brake caliper of a vehicle includes a cam surface operable against a single tappet and reacting against a caliper bridge. The actuating lever includes a wear adjuster arm which exerts a turning moment on the actuating lever. The turning moment is resisted by a small stub axle pivotable in a plain bearing of the brake caliper. |
| US08016080B2 |
Lifting platform with a torsion bar
A lift device of platform type for miscellaneous loads, in particular for motor vehicles, comprising a pair of vertical uprights (2) to rest on the floor, a load carrying platform (4) slidable along said uprights (2), a drive system for said platform comprising actuators associated with the two uprights (2), and a torsion bar (6) applied to said platform to ensure that this latter is also horizontal when an unbalanced load is present, characterised in that at least one sprocket wheel (14) is applied to said torsion bar (6) and cooperates with a stop pawl (16) elastically engaging the teeth of said sprocket wheel (14) and disengageable from it during the descent phase of said platform (4). |
| US08016078B2 |
Electrician's ladder and method
A stepladder having a front side, a rear side and a top. The stepladder can include a conduit holder attached to the front side for holding conduit. The stepladder can include a first wire spool holder attached to the front side and a second wire spool holder attached to the rear side though which a conduit having a wire spool extends. The stepladder can include a hacksaw hook attached to the front side. A method for cutting a conduit. A method for using a hacksaw. A method for obtaining wire. |
| US08016076B2 |
Flip ladder with tray and method
A climbing apparatus that rests on a surface includes a flip ladder that can move between a straight configuration and a stepladder configuration. The apparatus includes a tray having a plane attached to the flip ladder that moves with the flip ladder between the straight configuration where the tray plane is essentially parallel with the ladder in a stowed position and a stepladder configuration where the tray plane is essentially parallel with the surface in an open position. A method for climbing includes the steps of moving a flip ladder between a straight configuration and a stepladder configuration. There is the step of moving a tray having a plane attached to the flip ladder from a stowed position where the tray plane is essentially parallel with the ladder to an opened position where the tray plane is essentially parallel with the surface. There is the step of moving the flip ladder from the stepladder configuration to the straight configuration which causes the tray to move automatically into the stowed position. |
| US08016074B2 |
Work platform
A platform for an aerial lift enables unobstructed access to a work area adjacent the platform. The platform includes a floor structure with front and rear sides and ends, and a safety rail disposed along at least the front side. The safety rail includes an entry gate. A lift gate is pivotably attached to the safety rail and pivotable between a closed position and an open position. The lift gate includes a gate rail extending along the rear side of the floor structure and a pair of lift rails connected between the gate rail and the safety rail. The gate rail is pivotable relative to the lift rails between an extended position and a retracted position. In this manner, the lift gate can be raised without the gate rail impacting the work surface. |
| US08016073B2 |
Carabiner with automatic locking
A carabiner comprises a locking part elastically biased to a locked position for automatic locking of the pivoting gate in the closed position. The locking part is associated with an actuating ring coaxially surrounding the gate and used only when opening of the carabiner is performed for the gate to pivot to the unlocked position. The first end of the fixed body comprises a ramp to automatically unlock the locking part before the gate reaches the end of closing travel. |
| US08016068B2 |
System and method for load balancing in a tandem wheel arrangement
A tandem drive arrangement includes one or more independently driven wheels (118) that are arranged in a tandem configuration along a beam (120). The beam (120) is rotatably connected to a frame (102) of a machine (100). The tandem drive arrangement further includes an actuator (206) operating to selectively impart a rotating moment to the beam (102). The rotating moment tends to rotate the beam (120) in one direction and counteracts a torque imbalance resulting from operation of motors (128) rotating one or more independently driven wheels (118) connected to the beam (120). |
| US08016066B1 |
Pedestrian air bag
An apparatus (10) helps to protect a pedestrian from impacts with a vehicle (12) that has a windshield (24) and a hood (32) covering an engine compartment (30). The apparatus (10) includes an air bag (14) that is inflatable away from the engine compartment (30) through a space (342) between the hood (32) and the windshield (24) from a stored condition to a deployed condition positioned adjacent the windshield (24). A housing (60) stores the air bag (14) in a deflated and stowed condition in the engine compartment (30). A deflector (260) has a portion connected to the housing (60) and a portion for being connected to the vehicle hood (32). The deflector (260) is adapted to deflect the air bag (14) during inflation and direct the air bag (14) to clear the vehicle hood (32) and to deploy through the space (342) between the hood (32) and the windshield (24). |
| US08016065B2 |
Split chaincase with fixed axles
A tool carrier, such as a compact loader, has a main frame formed as a transmission housing that is all welded construction. The transmission housing has drives from motors and drive shafts on each side of the transmission housing. The drives are in enclosed chain cases forming integral parts of the transmission housing. The drive shafts span the power drive cases and are supported on bearings on both ends. The drives in each of the power drive cases drive front and rear axles of the compact loader. Axle tubes also are welded in place on the transmission housing. The rear portions of the transmission housing have support arm castings supported in and closing the ends of the power drive cases. The support arm castings provide support for mounting lift arms for the compact loader. |
| US08016062B2 |
Moving body
A moving body is equipped with fuel cells structured to have multiple corners. The fuel cells have a fuel gas exhaust port formed to discharge a fuel gas, which is subjected to an electrochemical reaction at anodes of the fuel cells, out of the fuel cells. The fuel cells are arranged to be inclined to a horizontal plane to position a front side of the fuel cells in a forward direction of the moving body higher than an opposite side of the fuel cells in the forward direction of the moving body and are provided to locate a specific corner closest to the fuel gas exhaust port of the fuel cells among the multiple corners as a lowermost point. This arrangement enables water produced at the anodes of the fuel cells to be efficiently discharged from the fuel cells by taking advantage of the gravity, while the moving body moves on a slope. |
| US08016059B2 |
Gage insert
A hard formation drill bit that includes a plurality of gage cutting elements disposed on the at least one roller cone, wherein at least one of the plurality of gage cutting elements includes a cutting portion. The cutting portion includes a partially spherical leading edge and an obtuse relieved trailing edge, wherein a volume of the partially spherical leading edge is greater than a volume of the obtuse relieved tailing edge. Also, a method of drilling a formation that includes such a drill bit. Also included is an insert and a method of manufacturing a gage cutting element. |
| US08016054B2 |
Polycrystalline diamond abrasive elements
A polycrystalline diamond abrasive element, particularly a cutting element, comprises a table of polycrystalline diamond bonded to a substrate, particularly a cemented carbide substrate, along a non-planar interface. The polycrystalline diamond abrasive element is characterised by the nonplanar interface having a cruciform configuration, the polycrystalline diamond having a high wear-resistance, and the polycrystalline diamond having a region adjacent the working surface lean in catalysing material and a region rich in catalysing material. The polycrystalline diamond cutters have improved wear resistance, impact strength and cutter life than prior art cutters. |
| US08016052B2 |
Thrust bearing assembly
A thrust bearing assembly comprising a rotating bearing runner and a stationary bearing carrier, the carrier defining a plurality of thrust pad sites annularly around the carrier, with a thrust pad disposed at a site and with the carrier constraining movement of the thrust pad in a direction generally radial to the longitudinal axis of the runner while allowing the thrust pad to move in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. An embodiment comprises a rotating bearing runner having a wear resistant face and a stationary bearing carrier defining cavities disposed annularly around the carrier. A deflection element (e.g., Belleville washer) is disposed in a cavity and a pad is disposed over the deflection element. The pad is at least partially disposed within the cavity. The wear resistant face contacts the pad. Another embodiment rigidly connects pads disposed on opposite sides of a stationary bearing carrier. |
| US08016050B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for estimating drill bit cutting effectiveness
A drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation includes a plurality of cutting elements and a shank extending from a bit body. A set of accelerometers disposed in the drill bit include a radial accelerometer and a tangential accelerometer. An annular chamber is formed within the shank. A data evaluation module is disposed in the annular chamber and includes a processor, a memory, and a communication port. The data evaluation module is configured for performing a bit acceleration analysis. The analysis includes sampling acceleration information from the radial accelerometer and the tangential accelerometer over an analysis period and storing the acceleration information in the memory to generate an acceleration history. The acceleration history is analyzed to determine a cutting effectiveness of the cutting elements responsive to changes in the acceleration history. The cutting effectiveness is reported through the communication port. |
| US08016043B2 |
Marker assembly having breakaway feature
An agricultural implement has a marker assembly that is pivotable in a generally rearward direction when the marker assembly collides with a relatively massive field obstruction. The interconnection of the marker assembly to a central frame of the implement allows the aforementioned pivoting to reduce damage to the central frame and/or the marker assembly during such collisions. |
| US08016039B2 |
Method of reducing water influx into gas wells
A method of reducing water influx into a wellbore, wherein the wellbore is in fluid communication with a subterranean formation such as a gas producing formation or gas reservoir. The method particularly places a gelant in a desired position down the wellbore and into the formation in order to thereby reduce the influx of water and enhance the resulting gas production. The method includes the steps of first introducing a gelant into the wellbore and second introducing a temporarily stable foam into the wellbore in order to overdisplace the gelant from the wellbore and into the formation. |
| US08016035B2 |
Chemical injection check valve incorporated into a tubing retrievable safety valve
Disclosed herein is a safety valve with a chemical injection configuration. The device includes a hydraulic fluid pressure operated piston at the housing. The device further includes a flow tube in operable communication with the piston and a chemical injection configuration disposed within the housing. Further disclosed herein is a method of maintaining the operation of a safety valve by injecting chemical fluid through a configuration within the safety valve.Still further disclosed herein is check valve. The check valve includes a seal, a dart having a closed head and sealable against the seal, one or more flutes on the dart, and a spring applying a biasing force to the dart to a sealing position, that force being overcomeable by a fluid pressure acting in a direction opposing the spring force. |
| US08016034B2 |
Methods of fluid placement and diversion in subterranean formations
Improved methods of placing and/or diverting treatment fluids in subterranean formations are provided. In one embodiment, the methods comprise: introducing a diverting material into a subterranean formation penetrated by a well bore to reduce or prevent the flow of fluid into a first portion of the subterranean formation; introducing a first fluid into a second portion of the subterranean formation having a higher fluid flow resistance than the first portion of the subterranean formation; allowing the diverting material to be removed from the subterranean formation after at least a portion of the first fluid has been introduced into the second portion of the subterranean formation; and introducing a second fluid into the first portion of the subterranean formation. |
| US08016029B2 |
Apparatus for flexibly restraining service loops in an oil derrick to prevent entangling of the loops
An apparatus for flexibly restraining service loops in an oil derrick to prevent entangling of the loops, comprising a plurality of identical apparatus wherein each apparatus is positioned at different longitudinal level to restrain the service loops. Each apparatus is comprised of a plurality of interlocking units, wherein each unit is comprised of a central steel ring which is adhesively bonded to a braid of a service loop penetrating therethrough and exteriorly affixed to first and second interconnecting rings. A first flexible cable and second flexible cable connect the respective first and second interconnecting rings of the units of each apparatus. Therefore, the service loops are flexibly restrained to have a uniform path and bend radius when they travel longitudinally during operation of an oil well drilling machine, which results in reduction of damage of the service loops. |
| US08016028B2 |
Apparatus for flexibly restraining service loops in an oil derrick to prevent entangling of the loops
An apparatus for flexibly restraining service loops in an oil derrick to prevent entangling of the loops, comprising a plurality of identical apparatus wherein each apparatus is positioned at different longitudinal level to restrain the service loops. Each apparatus is comprised of a plurality of interlocking units, wherein each unit is comprised of a central steel ring which is adhesively bonded to a braid of a service loop penetrating therethrough and exteriorly affixed to first and second interconnecting rings. A first flexible cable and second flexible cable connect the respective first and second interconnecting rings of the units of each apparatus. Therefore, the service loops are flexibly restrained to have a uniform path and bend radius when they travel longitudinally during operation of an oil well drilling machine, which results in reduction of damage of the service loops. |
| US08016027B2 |
Apparatus for driving rotating down hole pumps
An apparatus for rotating down hole pumps has a right angle gear box driving a hollow output shaft. The output shaft is oriented to the vertical and supports and rotates the drive string of a down hole rotary pump. A clamp on the drive string rests on the upper end of the hollow shaft and engages the hollow shaft with a key and keyway arrangement. The hollow shaft of the right angle gearbox is sized to accommodate the drive string, including rod boxes, so that the entire drive string can be pulled through the hollow shaft without dismantling or removing the apparatus. |
| US08016026B2 |
Actuator for downhole tools
An apparatus, method, and system for actuating a wellbore tool includes a body having a chamber in which a movable member is disposed. The movable member may connect to a selected wellbore tool. Within the chamber is a controllable fluid that substantially prevents relative movement between the body and the movable member when exposed to an applied magnetic field. A generator applies the magnetic field to the fluid and may change the applied magnetic field in response to a first control signal to release the movable member from the body. A driver displaces the movable member relative to the body once the movable member is released from the body. |
| US08016024B2 |
Loop heat pipe with flat evaportor having a wick with an internal chamber
A loop heat pipe with flat evaporator includes an evaporation section, a condensation section, and a transportation section connected between the evaporation section and the condensation section. The evaporation section includes a heat source, an enclosed containment structure, and a capillary structure. The enclosed containment structure is positionable on the heat source and forms an enclosed containment space which receives a working fluid and has a bottom in which a channel structure is formed and further forms a liquid inlet and a gas outlet in a circumferential wall thereof the container to respectively connect a liquid passage and a gas passage so that when the working fluid is heated by the heat source to become vapor, the vapor moves through the gas outlet and the gas passage to a condensing device provided in the condensation section where the vapor is cooled and converted back to the liquid form of the working fluid that is then guided through the liquid passage back to the enclosed containment space for next cycle. |
| US08016022B2 |
Systems and methods for passive thermal management using phase change material
Systems and methods for passive thermal management using phase change material are provided. In one embodiment, a thermal management method is provided. The method comprises securing an electronics assembly to a mounting surface using a thermally insulative support structure; insulating a phase change material within the support structure; and melting the phase change material to reduce heat transfer from an external environment to the electronics assembly during a high temperature transient thermal condition. |
| US08016021B2 |
Casting steel strip with low surface roughness and low porosity
A method of producing cast steel strip having low surface roughness and low porosity by casting with molten steel having a total oxygen content of at least about 70 ppm and a free oxygen content between 20 and 60 ppm, and a temperature that allows a majority of any oxide inclusions to be in a liquidus state. The total oxygen content may be at least 100 ppm and the free oxygen content between 30 and 50 ppm. The steel strip produced by the method may have a per unit area density of at least about 120 oxide inclusions per square millimeter to a depth of about 2 microns from the strip surface. |
| US08016016B2 |
Trough shade system and method
A trough shade system and method of use provide improved support for a roller tube and shade material. The roller tube and wound shade material are located within a support cradle to minimize unwanted deflection by the roller tube and associated wrinkling and deformation of the shade material. Various mechanisms allow the roller tube a limited range of movement within the support cradle. The system is suitable for shading larger areas than other shading systems which rely on roller tubes with fixed supports at the ends. |
| US08016013B2 |
Pull bar screen apparatus and system
A pull bar screen apparatus and system in which screen is mechanically attached directly to a pull bar. Weld-less friction-lock cold-joining of screen and pull bar provides an improved pull-bar screen apparatus used in retractable pull screens. The pull bar screen apparatus and system remove the need for attaching a vinyl strip to the screen. Instead, the screen is flattened to retain its form and structural integrity. On one elongated end of the screen, an upper and lower lock bar are placed on either side of the screen. Corrugated ridges in the lock bars pinch the screen and hold it in place. A lock bar casing is placed under pressure around the upper and lower lock bars which hold the lock bars in position and thereby retain the screen. |
| US08016009B2 |
Method and apparatus for sealing a glass package
An apparatus for sealing a substrate assembly by applying a force to the assembly while simultaneously exposing the substrate assembly, and in particular a sealing material disposed between two substrates of the substrate assembly, to an irradiating beam of electromagnetic energy. The beam heats, cures and/or melts the sealing material, depending upon the sealing material to form the seal. The force is applied by directing a flow of fluid against the substrate assembly, and beneficially improves contact between the substrates of the substrate assembly and the sealing material during the sealing process, therefore assisting in achieving a hermetic seal between the substrates. |
| US08016008B2 |
Auto lamination cassette apparatus
An apparatus for preparing a cassette spool. The apparatus includes: a supply reel for supplying and unrolling tape material on original backing paper; at least one cutting member for cutting unrolled tape material while on original backing paper; at least one removing member for removing uncut unrolled tape material from original backing paper; an identification member for identifying on unrolled original backing paper a start of unrolled cut tape material; and a cassette spool for rolling up unrolled cut tape material on original backing paper. In further embodiments, methods are provided for preparing a cassette spool with cut tape material on original backing paper. |
| US08016006B2 |
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 and the axially widest working crown layer being radially internal to the other working crown layers. The tire comprises additionally in each shoulder at least one 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 a working crown layer, at least part of said additional layer being radially and/or axially adjacent to the edge of the axially widest working crown layer and the axially outer end of said additional layer being radially internal to the axially widest working crown layer. |
| US08016004B2 |
More silent and robust electric pencil sharpener
A pencil sharpener for sharpening a pencil includes a central gear including an aperture along an axis of the central gear for receiving an end portion of the pencil. A first gear rotates the central gear and a strap joined to the central gear secures the pencil when the central gear is rotated. A shaft is in communication with the first gear where when the central gear is rotated the shaft is rotated. A cutting blade is in communication with the shaft where when the shaft is rotated the cutting blade cuts the end portion of the pencil at an angle to form a point. |
| US08016002B2 |
Sealing/pump-up device
A sealing/pump-up device for tire that not only ensures the storability of sealing agent but also realizes rapid supply of sealing agent into a pneumatic tire. By insertion of insert part (60A) of jig (60) in jig insertion aperture (42) of sealing device (10), aluminum seal (30) is burst through by means of boring member (50) to thereby drive the same in the container. As the distal end of the insert part (60A) locates in the vicinity of upper wall surface within liquid agent container (18), a compressor unit is operated to thereby supply compressed air into the liquid agent container (18). As the end portion of first passage (62) provided in the jig (60) lies in a position superior to the liquid surface of sealing agent (32), the compressed air realizes rapid supply of the sealing agent (32) into a pneumatic tire without surfacing in the form of bubbles through the sealing agent (32). |
| US08015999B2 |
Weaving machines and three-dimensional woven fabrics
A weaving machine for weaving a three-dimensional distance woven fabric including two outer fabrics and inter-yarns connected with the outer fabrics is provided. The weaving machine includes a warp let-off mechanism, heald frames, a picking mechanism, a beating-up mechanism, a yarn raising mechanism, and a take-up mechanism. The warp let-off mechanism includes at least two warp beams for providing and transferring warps. A plurality of vertically arranged heald wires are supported by each of the heald frames, wherein each of the heald wires has a heald eye for the warps passing through. The warps are driven and divided into two warp layers by the heald frames such that a shed is formed between the two warp layers. The picking mechanism transfers wefts to pass through the shed. The yarn raising mechanism is suitable for passing through the shed and raising parts of the warps functioning as the inter-yarns. |
| US08015998B2 |
Method for patching or sealing leaks in fluid systems
A method for patching or sealing leaks in fluid systems and, in an exemplary application, to a method of patching or sealing leaks in sub-sea hydraulic control lines, leaks in sub-surface or sub-sea safety valves, O-ring leaks of any type, leaks in hydraulic line fittings, tubing thread connection leaks, casing thread connection leaks, glycol hydraulic system leaks, well-head and sub-sea well-head leaks, hanger leaks, and leaks in other types of related down-hole equipment. A pressure- or shear-fibrillatable substance, such as an aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion, a fluoropolymer fine powder, or any other fluoropolymer which is derived from a dispersion polymerization process, is added to a fluid system such as a hydraulic control line, and pressure is then applied to the system. In one embodiment, an aqueous dispersion of polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”) particles having a particle size between 0.01 and 10 microns is used. Under the applied pressure and, in one embodiment, under cycling of the pressure, the fluororpolymer particles in the dispersion are forced through the leak site with resulting shear force, causing fibrillation of the individual fluororpolymer particles with resulting intertwining and coalescing of the individual fluororpolymer fibrils at the leak site, wherein the fluororpolymer fibrils form a dense, intertwined and coalesced matrix, impacting and embedding the fibrils within the leak site to effectively seal the leak. |
| US08015997B2 |
Valve for a pneumatic hand tool
A valve body has a channel extending along an axis and an inlet port open to the channel. A sleeve, received about the valve body, overlies the inlet port and is rotatable about the axis relative the body. A nozzle projects radially outward from the sleeve. The nozzle is rotatable with the sleeve into a range of positions in which the nozzle communicates with the inlet port through the sleeve. |
| US08015993B2 |
Heatable hydrogen pressure regulator
A compressed hydrogen tank system that includes a heatable hydrogen pressure regulator. Hydrogen is removed from the compressed tank through a suitable pipe where the pressure drop of the hydrogen is controlled by the pressure regulator. The high pressure side of the regulator is typically at a relatively low temperature as the hydrogen is being removed from the tank, and the low pressure side of the regulator is typically at a relatively high temperature as the hydrogen is removed from the tank. A heat source is provided to heat the pipe on the high pressure side of the regulator to prevent the hydrogen from becoming cold as the hydrogen is being removed from the tank, thus preventing the temperature of the hydrogen within the tank from decreasing. |
| US08015992B2 |
Z valve
The present invention provides a valve that controls a flow of gas or solid objects through a pipe, and particularly a z-valve used in an elevated rail transportation system. The valve includes vanes hinged to a valve stem that fold into a z-shape and retract into the valve body when the valve is open. A valve cap positioned at the top of the valve stem matches the contour of the inner surface of the pipe, allowing unobstructed flow. When the valve is closed, the valve stem is elevated into the interior of the pipe and the valve cap rotates 90° to match the contour at the top, providing a seal. The vanes extend from the z-shape to completely block a cross-section of the pipe, stopping the flow. The flow may be modulated by varying the extension of the vanes to allow a portion of the flow to pass the valve. |
| US08015988B2 |
Rechargeable battery arrangement for electrical system of shading device
A rechargeable power source, which is detachably coupled with a shading device to electrically connect with an electrical arrangement thereof, includes a rechargeable battery unit having a battery terminal arranged to contact with the electrical terminal of the electrical arrangement, and a locking arrangement which contains a releasable locker to detachably couple the rechargeable battery unit with the shading device and to ensure the battery terminal being contact with an electrical terminal of the electrical arrangement so as to electrically connect the rechargeable battery unit with the electrical arrangement. Therefore, the electrical arrangement of the shading device is powered by the rechargeable battery unit to eliminate the power extension to the external power source. |
| US08015987B2 |
Vibration-type cleaning device for contact lenses
A vibration-type cleaning device for contact lenses comprises an adaptor that is provided with a support part thereon for supporting a contact lens case and a base that is provided under the bottom of the adaptor. The base is connected with the adapter via a positioning element so that the base can be attached to or detached from the adaptor. The base is provided with a vibrator therein and the vibrator is connected with a power source. Consequently, the vibrator can be driven under the control of a user to vibrate the contact lens solution and the contact lenses in the contact lens case and the cleaning effect of the contact lenses in the contact lens solution can be enhanced through vibration. |
| US08015984B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus including a drying mechanism using a fluid mixture of purified water and a volatile organic solvent
Disclosed is a substrate processing apparatus for cleaning and drying a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer. This substrate processing apparatus includes a liquid processing unit for processing a substrate by immersing the substrate in stored purified water, a drying unit arranged above the liquid processing unit and configured to dry the substrate, a substrate transfer apparatus for transferring the substrate between the liquid processing unit and drying unit, a fluid supply mechanism for supplying a fluid mixture containing vapor or mist of purified water and vapor or mist of a volatile organic solvent to the drying unit, and a controller for controlling the supply of the fluid mixture. |
| US08015981B2 |
Stencils and gauging device for aesthetically pleasing eyebrow shaping
A novel gauging device and associated stencils facilitate the shaping of eyebrows according to a Golden Ratio standard. The gauging device is adapted to be placed over a woman's face and maintained in a fixed position relative to her eyes and nose. A nosepiece and knobs are adjusted such that a lower end of a guide rod may be rotated about various points relative to the nose and held in predetermined angles relative to the nose and eyes, possibly supported magnetically on a lower track adjacent the nostrils and an upper track above the eyebrows. An eyebrow stencil is held in a desired position relative to the previously positioned guide rod, which facilitates convenient application and symmetrical shaping, preferably with frictional clamps for permitting the stencil to be shifted in place so that a particular portion of the stencil is properly aligned with the guide rod after the guide rod has been aligned with an appropriate Golden Ratio marking on the stencil. Each stencil may be provided with more than one set of such markings to accommodate not only different eyebrows of different sizes, but also to adjust the eyebrow's ideal Golden Ratio “High Point” to complement facial proportions (preferably represented by a single Facial Ratio Value or “FRV” that takes into account several different measured ratios) that deviate substantially from an ideal Golden Ratio. A slim tab between the upper and the lower edges of the stencil cut-out preferably provides a convenient reference mark for the “High Point” of the unadjusted cut-out. |
| US08015976B2 |
Knife lockout mechanisms for surgical instrument
A cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapling instrument is disclosed. The cartridge assembly includes a channel, a cover, a staple cartridge and a knife. The channel includes a protrusion thereon. The cover is configured for mechanical engagement with the channel and includes a blocking member and a surface defining a plane. At least a portion of the blocking member is configured to move away from the plane upon contact with the protrusion. The staple cartridge is configured for mechanical engagement with the cover. The blocking member is configured to substantially prevent distal translation of the knife after the knife has been translated proximally past a predetermined position. |
| US08015972B2 |
System, device and process for remotely controlling a medical device
A system for controlling medical devices, wherein this system can comprise a device having at least one wireless or cellular based communication module. The module can be in the form of a GPRS module associated with a SIM card, or a CDMA module. The SIM card can be adapted such that it contains additional memory for storing a program for controlling the device or the system. Multiple cellular communication modules can also be installed in this system. Additional communication modules such as wireless modules including but not limited to Bluetooth, IRDA, RF, or any other wireless module can also be incorporated into the system. Wired modules can also be used, for example these wired modules can be RS-232 modules, USB, Serial adapters, phone and fax modem. Other modules can include audio modules such as speaker and microphone jacks, and video modules such as a camera for processing video readings. All of these components can be installed on a first side of a motherboard, which is disposed inside of a housing. The other side of the motherboard can have particular functional elements installed thereon. These functional elements can include a flow meter, and/or a electromechanical valve. All of these components can be controlled by one or more processor coupled to the motherboard. When this device is coupled to an ordinary PAP machine, such as a CPAP machine, it can be used to turn an ordinary PAP machine into an auto-adjust PAP machine or a BiPAP machine. |
| US08015971B2 |
Method and apparatus for humidification of breathable gas with profiled delivery
A method and apparatus for delivering breathable gas to a user includes a humidifying unit that is controllable to humidify the gas in accordance with a variable humidity profile such that the gas is delivered to the user at variable humidity levels, e.g., during a treatment session. |
| US08015969B2 |
Semi-automatic emergency medication dose nebulizer
A conventional respiratory nebulizer has an emergency medication dose storage system delivering the stored medication dose directly to the nebulizing chamber with a single impulse of manual force to a simple mechanical delivery system, thereby making the nebulizer useable in two steps: (a) opening the medication capsule with a simple opening action; and (b) inhaling the nebulized medication. The nebulizer can be operated without disassembling the nebulizer housing so as to expose the nebulizing chamber and without manually opening the liquid medication container and, without spillage and without manual pouring of the liquid medication directly into the nebulizing chamber, and without reassembling the nebulizer housing before positioning the inhaler mouthpiece in the mouth so as to inhale the nebulized medication. The delivery system includes a pressure burstable seal at one end of the capsule, which is burst by the application of force against the opposite end of the capsule. |
| US08015965B2 |
Fuel vapor storage canister, fuel vapor adsorbent for canister, and method of producing fuel vapor adsorbent
A fuel vapor storage canister for adsorbing fuel vapor evaporated from a fuel tank of an automotive vehicle. The fuel vapor storage canister includes a casing provided with charge and purge ports at its first end and an atmospheric port at its second end. At least first and second fuel vapor adsorbent layers are respectively located near the first and second ends of the casing. In this arrangement, the first fuel vapor adsorbent layer is larger in cross-sectional area perpendicular to flow direction of fuel vapor than the second fuel vapor adsorbent layer. The first and second fuel vapor adsorbent layers respectively include first and second granular fuel vapor adsorbents. The first granular fuel vapor adsorbent has a microporous structure, while the second granular fuel vapor adsorbent has a macroporous structure. |
| US08015964B2 |
Selective displacement control of multi-plunger fuel pump
A pump for a combustion engine is disclosed. The pump may have at least one pumping member movable through a plurality of displacement strokes during a single engine cycle. The pump may also have a controller in communication with the pumping member. The controller may be configured to selectively reduce an amount of fluid displaced during at least one, but less than all of the plurality of displacement strokes. The reduction may be initiated in response to a demand for the displaced fluid. |
| US08015960B2 |
Vibration-damping control apparatus and method for internal combustion engine
An apparatus and method of controlling vibration-damping for a vehicular internal combustion engine. The combustion is temporarily stopped in some cylinders among a plurality of cylinders, and the engine is operated by the remaining cylinders. Then, a variable valve mechanism which varies a valve lift amount of at least one of intake and exhaust valves of each cylinder is controlled, to decrease the valve lift amount of at least one of the intake and exhaust valves of each cylinder in which the combustion is temporarily stopped. Further, a rotating electric machine having at least one of functions of an electric motor and a generator is controlled, to apply torque to an output shaft of the engine thereby suppressing torque variation in the output shaft at the time when the combustion is temporarily stopped in some cylinders, so that the torque variation due to uneven explosion intervals is reduced. |
| US08015956B2 |
Piston assembly for barrel engine
A barrel engine includes a central drive shaft and a cam plate interconnected to the drive shaft. The barrel engine includes a plurality of cylinders each having a longitudinal axis that is generally parallel with the drive shaft. The axes of the cylinders are arranged in a generally circular manner about the drive shaft. A pair of guide rods are provided, which correspond to each cylinder of the engine. Each guide rod has an axis generally parallel with the axes of the cylinders. The barrel engine includes a plurality of piston assemblies. Each piston assembly includes a piston head slidably coupled to one of the cylinders for reciprocal movement along the axis of the cylinder. Each piston assembly also includes a guide block slidably coupled to a respective pair of guide rods for guiding the piston head during reciprocal movement along the axis of the cylinder. |
| US08015954B2 |
Cooling fan arrangement at a vehicle
A radiator fan arrangement for a vehicle which is powered by a combustion engine. The radiator fan arrangement includes at least one cooling element for cooling a medium, and a first radiator fan for continuously generating a forced air flow through at least one first region of the cooling element in order to cool the medium during operation of the combustion engine. The radiator fan arrangement also includes at least one extra radiator fan for being activated to generate an increased air flow through at least one second region of said cooling element in situations where the first radiator fan cannot provide sufficient air flow to cool as necessary the medium in the cooling element. |
| US08015953B2 |
Electric cooling fan control based on known vehicle load conditions
A method of controlling a cooling fan for an engine of a vehicle may entail determining an engine coolant temperature, providing a normal load operation mode for the cooling fan and a high load operation mode for the cooling fan, determining whether a tow-haul operation is selected within the vehicle, determining a vehicle load of the vehicle by detecting whether a towing load sensor is activated or not activated, determining whether a vehicle load threshold is reached based upon activation of the towing load sensor, and operating the cooling fan. Operating the cooling fan may be based on the coolant temperature and one of the normal load operation mode and the high load operation mode. Operating the cooling fan in the normal load operation mode may mean reducing a cooling fan operation frequency and decreasing a cooling fan operation percentage over a predetermined coolant temperature range. |
| US08015952B2 |
Engine fuel reformer monitoring
Systems and methods for monitoring a fuel reformer which reforms ethanol into a reformate gas comprising H2, CO, and CH4 for fueling an engine are provided. Degradation of the fuel reformer may be indicated based on an amount of ethanol injected into the fuel reformer and an amount of at least one of H2, CO, and CH4 produced by the fuel reformer. |
| US08015950B2 |
Single can-type composite heat source machine
A single can-type composite heat source machine including a single can body including a first combustion section having a first burner and a hot water supplying first main heat exchanger located above the first burner, and a second combustion section having a second burner and a second main heat exchanger located above the second burner and used for a purpose other than hot water supply. The first combustion section and the second combustion section are partitioned from each other by a partition wall and juxtaposed in a lateral direction. The machine includes a first auxiliary heat exchanger and a second auxiliary heat exchanger both of a latent heat recovery type connected to upstream sides of the first main heat exchanger and the second main heat exchanger, respectively. An exhaust system can be miniaturized and simplified in spite of provision of the auxiliary heat exchangers. |
| US08015949B2 |
Device and method for catching excrement
Excrement catching device for a quadruped is disclosed, comprising a harness and a receptacle-holder connected to the harness, wherein the connection between the harness and the receptacle holder is configured to respond to the gravitational force acting on the receptacle-holder by allowing movement of the receptacle-holder between a loosen neutral position when the quadruped stands or walks and an excrement-catching position when the quadruped pose being its customary position to defecate. Excrement catching method is disclosed accordingly, comprising configuring a device to be responsive to gravitational force by taking an operative position for catching excrement automatically when the quadruped takes a particular pose. |
| US08015943B1 |
Travel bowl assembly for people
A travel bowl assembly for traveling in a vehicle including a bowl member divided into a snack section and a cup holder section. A cup holder, cup holder insert extends downward from a bottom of the bowl member. The cup holder insert can be integrated or removably attached to the bowl. A pliant adapter can be integrated or removably attached to the cup holder insert. The pliant adapter utilizes flexible winglets for compensating between dimensional differences between the cup holder insert and a receiving cup holder. The pliant adapter is formed having a tapered sleeve for sliding the adapter onto a tapered sidewall of the cup holder insert. A lid can be provided, sealing the snack section of the bowl. |
| US08015942B2 |
Heated pet bed
An outdoor heated pet bed has a low wattage heating wire. A foil packet encloses the low wattage heating wire. A foam layer is placed adjacent to one side of the foil packet. A weather resistant cover encloses the foam layer and the foil packet. |
| US08015937B2 |
Continuous feed tablet coating system
A system for coating tablets and other small articles is provided. The system is comprised of an elongate housing containing a drum journalled for rotation about a horizontal axis. The drum has two open ends that receive and discharge a supply of tablets respectively. The drum is rotated about the axis by a drive means to tumble the tablets and advance the tablets through the drum. The system also includes a system for delivering a selected amount of coating to the tablets while they are being tumbled and a feeder for continually feeding tablets at a first end of the housing. The system employs a weir plate for maintaining a depth of tablets within the drum and for controlling the time that the tablets remain in the drum. Finally, the system has a tablet discharge region for receiving tablets for discharge. |
| US08015932B2 |
Method and apparatus for operating a fuel flexible furnace to reduce pollutants in emissions
A fuel flexible furnace, including a main combustion zone, a reburn zone downstream from the main combustion zone, and a delivery system operably coupled to supplies of biomass and coal and configured to deliver the biomass and the coal as ingredients of first and reburn fuels to the main combustion zone and the reburn zone, with each fuel including flexible quantities of the biomass and/or the coal. The flexible quantities are variable with the furnace in an operating condition. |
| US08015926B2 |
Chair for a chair lift and chair lift
Tracks are arranged on the floor of the entry region of a station of the chair lift, the tracks running below and in accordance with the path of movement of the seats of the chair and having a substantially equal width with the corresponding seats. The seat part and/or the backrest of a seat differ/differs with regard to the graphical design from the seat part and/or backrest of an adjacent seat. It is therefore made clear to the passengers, in particular children, how the seat division on the chair has been conceived by the manufacturer and where to stand in the entry region in order to be correctly seated on an approaching seat. If the graphical design of the tracks is identical to the graphical design of the corresponding seat, the effect of the chair according to the invention is reinforced by the unambiguous visual association between the track and seat. |
| US08015925B2 |
Air bus transportation system
A transportation system includes a vehicle having wings, a propulsion system, a lifting gear coupling the vehicle to an undercarriage, and a guidance assembly movably connecting the undercarriage to guide rails. The wings generate aerodynamic lift when the vehicle exceeds a first speed. The lifting gear supports a load of the vehicle in a first position in relation to the undercarriage when the vehicle travels at less than the first speed, allows the vehicle to lift to a second position in relation to the undercarriage as the vehicle accelerates beyond the first speed, and maintains the vehicle in the second position when the vehicle exceeds the first speed. The guidance assembly shiftingly engages the guide rails through rollers that are in rolling contact with the guide rails when the vehicle is in the first position and are displaced from the guide rails when the vehicle is in the second position. |
| US08015924B1 |
Linear cellular bomb case
A warhead consisting of a relatively thin metal shell casing and interior open linear cells which run throughout its length manufactured by electrical discharge machining and slip fitting. |
| US08015921B2 |
Electronic blasting capsule
An electronic blasting capsule which includes a housing which contains a propellant, a fuse, a sensor for detecting the position of the housing in a capsule delivery path, an energy arrangement for obtaining energy from an external energy source, and a controller, responsive to the sensor and the energy arrangement, for firing the fuse to initiate the propellant. |
| US08015919B2 |
Security printing using a diffraction grating
There is provided an apparatus and a method of printing a diffraction grating. In particular, the present invention relates to diffraction gratings applied to a substrate (1), such as a hologram. |
| US08015918B2 |
Cleaning apparatus
A cleaning apparatus includes a first liquid supply unit, second cylinder, cleaning unit, third cylinder, second liquid supply unit, first cleaning liquid supply unit, and controller. The first liquid supply unit supplies a transfer liquid to a first cylinder. The second cylinder performs transfer to one surface of a transfer target body with the transfer liquid transferred from the first cylinder. The cleaning unit cleans the circumferential surface of the second cylinder in contact with it. The third cylinder is arranged to oppose the second cylinder and performs transfer to the other surface of the transfer target body. The second liquid supply unit supplies the transfer liquid to the third cylinder. The first cleaning liquid supply unit supplies a cleaning liquid to at least one of the first cylinder and the third cylinder. The controller controls the control unit to clean the second cylinder while the second cylinder is in contact with the first cylinder and the third cylinder. |
| US08015911B2 |
Electronic firing rate controller for remote operation of an automatic firing weapon
An electronic apparatus for controlling a firing rate of an automatic firing weapon having an actuator operating a trigger mechanism of the weapon, the weapon exhibiting a natural free-running firing rate when triggered. An output driver element provides a drive signal for the actuator, a first single pulse generator element having a single pulse output coupled to an input of the driver element and generating a single pulse of a duration shorter than a time period of the natural free-running firing rate in response to a single pulse generator element input, and a pulse train generator element having a single pulse output coupled to an input of the first single pulse generator element and providing the first single pulse generator element a train of pulses spaced in time a spacing period exceeding the time period of the natural free-running firing rate in response to a pulse train generator element input. |
| US08015910B1 |
Convertible ballistic structure with articulated panels
A convertible ballistic structure has a threat side and a protected side. The ballistic structure includes a body panel assembly, and at least one movable side panel assembly adjacent the body panel assembly. Means are provided for articulating the side panel assembly relative to the body panel assembly, whereby the ballistic structure is convertible between a contracted condition and an expanded condition. In the contracted condition, the side panel assembly extends rearwardly from the body panel assembly and outwardly from the protected side of the ballistic structure. In the expanded condition, the side panel assembly extends outwardly substantially coplanar to the body panel assembly. |
| US08015907B2 |
Projectile launcher
An apparatus for launching a projectile, such as a paintball. The apparatus uses energy generated from the combustion of fuel to propel a projectile out of the apparatus. |
| US08015906B2 |
Actuator with actuating pin
An actuator includes a piston having an actuating pin, a squib, and a cylinder case. The cylinder case has a peripheral wall part that covers the circumference of the piston and a ceiling wall part having a through hole which allows an actuating pin to protrude from the through hole. The actuator is configured to make the a piston move backward along with the actuating pin by ejecting a driving gas generated from the squib to a space between the ceiling wall part and the piston during actuation. A sealing ring which is relatively movable with respect to the actuating pin while maintaining the state of sealing up a gap between the actuating pin and the through hole, is provided at an inner face side of the ceiling wall part. |
| US08015905B2 |
Non-lethal electrical discharge weapon having a bottom loaded cartridge
The present invention comprises a pistol-shaped Taser™-type weapon wherein the cartridge containing a pair of the wire-tethered darts is loaded into the cartridge receiving chamber from beneath the weapon, that is, in an upward movement of the cartridge with the weapon pointed toward the target. This type of loading is referred to herein as a “bottom loading” mechanism or system. The bottom loading mechanism of the present invention has significant advantages over conventional cartridge loading designs. One advantage is reduced reload time. |
| US08015897B2 |
Vibration damper
A damper for shafts includes an elastomeric ring having a plurality of holes therethrough and an inertia ring having two portions such that the portions encapsulate the elastomeric ring and secure the elastomeric ring in a position. The inertia ring includes openings corresponding to the plurality of holes in the elastomeric ring. A first housing portion configured to receive first fasteners through a first set of openings in the elastomeric ring and the inertia ring to secure the first housing portion to a second housing portion. The first and second housing portions form a surface to receive an inner portion of the elastomeric ring such that the inertia ring floats on the elastomeric ring without the inertia ring contacting the first and second housing portions. |
| US08015896B2 |
Arrangement for operating at least one shift fork in a transmission
An arrangement for actuating at least one shift fork (1) in a transmission of a vehicle. The arrangement has at least one actuating device (3), which is mounted on a shift rail (8), that actuates the shift fork (1) to undergo an at least axially directed shifting movement such that either a one-directional spring deflection of a two-directional spring deflection of the shift fork (1) is provided, and such spring deflected action is provided by at least one bent spring (12). |
| US08015893B2 |
Retainer for parking gear pivot
A motor vehicle transmission includes a housing, a parking gear and a retainer. The housing has a support wall. The parking gear is pivotally coupled to the support wall of the housing by a pivot pin. The pivot pin has an end that protrudes outwardly from the support wall. The retainer has a proximal end fixedly secured to the support wall and a distal end contacting the end of the pivot pin to retain the pivot pin in the support wall. The retainer is elastically deformed upon securing the proximal end to the support wall and continuously axially biasing the pivot pin toward the housing. Additionally, the distal end is shaped to retain the end of the pivot pin, thereby axially constraining the pivot pin relative to the housing and, at the same time, preventing rotation of the retainer about the fastener. |
| US08015890B2 |
Linear actuator
A linear actuator includes a reversible electric motor which drives a spindle via a reduction gear with several stages and an activation element connected with it, and an overload clutch in connection with the first stage or one of the first stages in the reduction gear. This is advantageous in terms of structure and load and greater flexibility is achieved in the construction of the structure. |
| US08015884B1 |
Method and means of measuring the flow rate of particulate matter
A flow meter used in relation to a hopper mounted to a frame and a transfer tube connected to an in communication with the hopper. Both the hopper and the transfer tube have gates that are connected to actuators for selectively opening and closing the gates. A sensor is mounted to the frame adjacent the transfer tube. Mounted below and in communication with the transfer tube is the flow meter. The flow meter has a curved chute and a load beam that measure the inertial force of material acting upon the curved chute over time. |
| US08015881B2 |
Pressure sensor
A pressure sensor includes: a housing; an attachment portion coupled to the housing and having a pressure input orifice; a diaphragm sealing the pressure input orifice of the attachment portion and having a first surface that is a pressure receiving surface; and a pressure sensitive unit having a detecting axis in a direction in which a force is detected. In the sensor, an end of the pressure sensitive unit is connected to a central area of a second surface of the diaphragm, another end of the pressure sensitive unit is connected to the housing, and the detecting axis is approximately orthogonal to the pressure receiving surface. |
| US08015879B2 |
Orientation aware sensor
A sensor for detecting a parameter of an object includes a probe, a first sensing member for detecting the parameter of an object to be sensed and a second sensing member for determining an orientation of the probe relative to the object to be sensed. The second sensing member communicates the orientation of the probe to a data acquisition device to minimize data analysis errors associated with inaccurate orientation information. |
| US08015878B2 |
Fiber optics sound detector
An optical sound detection system including: a laser source to generate a laser beam; an optical fiber; an optical sensor aligned to detect a detected portion of a diffraction pattern formed by the laser light emitted from the output coupling port of the optical fiber; and a signal processor to process the signal produced by the optical sensor. The optical fiber includes: a core that includes a photoelastically active material; an input coupling port optically coupled to the laser source to couple the laser beam into the core of the optical fiber; and an output coupling port from which the laser light is emitted after propagating through the core. The optical sensor is adapted to produce a signal corresponding to the detected portion of the diffraction pattern. |
| US08015877B2 |
Imaging an anomaly using backscattered waves
A method for generating an image of an anomaly may include generating a pulse wave into a structure being evaluated from each of a plurality of sensors and collecting any scattered wave data caused by the pulse wave impacting an anomaly. The scattered wave data may be collected by the same sensor that generated the pulse wave or by a different sensor. The method may also include identifying any backscattered wave data from a distal edge or border of any anomaly relative to a location of the sensor collecting the scattered wave data. The method may additionally include processing the backscattered wave data from each of the sensors collecting the scattered wave data to generate a two dimensional image of any anomaly. The method may further include presenting the two dimensional image of any anomaly. |
| US08015874B2 |
Inertia force sensor
An inertial force sensor is provided in which each of switches is connected in parallel with each of resistors of low-pass filter and high-pass filter, respectively, and capacitor of high-pass filter can be boost charged by making switches on without mediate resistors. |
| US08015872B2 |
Surface acoustic wave based humidity sensor apparatus with integrated signal conditioning
A SAW-based humidity sensor apparatus with integrated signal conditioning on the same substrate. A micro-electronic circuit can be processed at a silicon substrate to obtain on-chip signal conditioning internally and the silicon substrate can be covered with a protective layer of, for example, silicon nitride. Surface acoustic wave media (e.g., a ZnO film) can be coated on top of the protective layer. A humidity sensitive film and two sets of interdigital transducers can then be deposited on the surface acoustic wave media. The humidity sensitive film absorbs moisture and changes the receiving frequency at the two sets of interdigital transducers. The output from the two sets of interdigital transducers can be processed by the micro-electronic circuit, which eliminates common mode noise and generates an output signal proportional to the humidity value tested. |
| US08015869B2 |
Methods and apparatus to perform pressure testing of geological formations
Example methods and apparatus to perform pressure testing of geological formations are disclosed. A disclosed example method comprises positioning a testing tool in a wellbore formed in the geological formation, sealing a sample interval around the testing tool, sealing a first guard interval around the testing tool and adjacent to the sample interval, reducing a first pressure in the sample interval, reducing a second pressure in the first guard interval, maintaining a volume of a first chamber fluidly coupled to the sample interval during a time interval, and measuring a plurality of pressure data for a fluid captured in the first chamber during the time interval. |
| US08015868B2 |
Formation evaluation using estimated borehole tool position
Caliper measurements made during rotation of an imager on a logging string are processed to estimate the location of the imager, and size and shape of the borehole. A piecewise elliptical fitting procedure may be used. These estimates may be used to correct measurements made by a standoff-sensitive formation evaluation sensor such as a neutron porosity tool. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. |
| US08015866B2 |
Liquid detection unit, and liquid container
Disclosed is a liquid detection unit having a liquid detection chamber, a detection portion including a detection space communicating with the liquid detection chamber via a through hole of a detection portion installation member and a piezoelectric sensor which detects remaining vibrations, and a movable member including a detection space sealing surface which is urged by an urging member and thus comes to abut against one surface of a detection portion installation member. The liquid detection chamber includes an abutting surface abutting against a second sealing surface being in contact with a first sealing surface of the movable member and the detection portion installation member. When a distance between the first sealing surface of the movable member to the detection space sealing surface is defined as L1 and a distance between the second sealing surface of the liquid detection chamber to the abutting surface is defined as L2, the relationship L1>L2 is satisfied. |
| US08015864B2 |
Digital tire pressure gauge with bleed valve
A digital tire pressure gauge has a housing having a first and a second end. A port at the first end of the housing is adapted to engage with and open a needle valve of a tire valve stem. The gauge also includes a pressure sensor and a processor in electronic communication with the pressure sensor. A bleed valve is disposed in the housing and a bleed lever is in contact engagement with the bleed valve. When the port is coupled to the tire valve stem, in a first operational mode, the bleed valve is closed and an air pressure measurement is obtained. In a second operational mode, pressing the bleed lever causes the bleed valve to open and to allow air to be bled out from the tire via the pressure gauge. |
| US08015861B2 |
Article and method for stabilizing a rock chip
An article and method for stabilizing a rock chip. The article in one embodiment of the invention includes a laminar rock chip substantially surrounded by and imbedded within a plug having a solid material, the plug forming a top planar surface and a bottom planar surface substantially parallel with the top planar surface, the laminar rock chip forming a contact surface portion exposed at the top planar surface of the plug, a laminar plane of the laminar rock chip being substantially perpendicular with the top planar surface. |
| US08015856B2 |
Gas chromatograph with improved thermal maintenance and process operation using microprocessor control
A gas chromatograph controlled by a pair of microprocessors to have improved thermal maintenance and process operation. The microprocessors are operable to run independently of each other, with one microprocessor controlling heaters and other control devices and the other microprocessor running a graphical user interface. The two microprocessors are separated by a gas chromatograph assembly that includes one or more separation columns. |
| US08015854B2 |
Mechanism for feeding blanks to be threaded into a thread rolling machine
The present invention relates to means for feeding blanks into the thread rolling part of a thread rolling machine in accurate timing and accurate position. A transport screw for transporting blanks e.g. in a thread rolling machine is disclosed, said transport screw comprises a transport helix for transporting a blank along said transport screw when said transport screw rotates, said transport screw further comprises a feeding area being a widening of said transport helix, whereby said feeding area can receive and feed said blank into said transport helix upon rotation of said transport screw. Further, a method of feeding blanks into a transport screw and a feeding system comprising a transport screw, a blank height adjustment mechanism and a blank alignment mechanism are disclosed. |
| US08015853B2 |
Crimping tool construction with angularly disposed jaw head assembly
By constructing clamping jaws, which are employed for applying the desired force to the rings to be crimped, and mounting the clamping jaws in a plane which is substantially perpendicular to the plane in which the handle members are positioned or constructing the clamping jaws for arcuate movement relative to the handle members, an easily employed, force generating, crimping tool assembly is achieved wherein the clamping jaws cooperatively associated with the handle members are positioned at a fixed angle relative to the handle members, or are constructed for being arcuately pivotable relative to the handle members. The crimping tool assembly is able to provide the desired crimping forces to rings mounted in areas in which access is virtually impossible to achieve using prior art tool assemblies. Alternatively, if desired, the clamping jaws may be mounted to the handle members at any desired fixed angle. |
| US08015845B2 |
Glass tube processing method
In a glass processing method according to the invention, in the case of performing chemical vapor deposition or diameter shrinkage of a substrate glass tube G by relatively moving a heating furnace 20 comprising a heating element 21 for annularly enclosing the circumference of the substrate glass tube in a longitudinal direction of the substrate glass tube G with respect to the substrate glass tube G in which an outer diameter is 30 mm or more and a wall thickness is 3 mm or more and is less than 15 mm and an ovality of the outer diameter is 1.0% or less using a glass processing apparatus 1, a temperature of at least one of the heating element 21 and the substrate glass tube G is measured and the amount of heat generation of the heating element 21 is adjusted based on the measured temperature. |
| US08015842B2 |
Method of making a float glass subsequently convertible into a glass ceramic
A method for making a float glass convertible into a glass ceramic, by which a largely crystal fault-free glass can be produced. In this method the glass is cooled from a temperature (TKGmax), at which a crystal growth rate is at a maximum value (KGmax), to another temperature (TUEG), at which practically no more crystal growth occurs, with a cooling rate, KR, in ° C. min−1 according to: KR UEG KG max ≥ Δ T UEG KG max 100 · KG max , wherein ΔT=TKGmax−TUEG, and KGmax=maximum crystal growth rate in μm min−1. The float glass has a thickness below an equilibrium thickness, a net width of at least 1 m and has no more than 50 crystals with a size of more than 50 μm, especially no crystals with a size of more than 10 μm, per kilogram of glass within the net width. |
| US08015836B2 |
Heat pump system
A heat pump system has a single heat source unit connected to at least one load unit to heat water to a high temperature. A hot water supply system 100 (heat pump system) includes a heat source unit 10 provided with a first compressor 11, a four-way selector valve 12 and a heat source heat exchanger 13, and a load unit 50 provided with a first flow controller 51, a first load heat exchanger 52, a second compressor 53, a second load heat exchanger 54, and a second flow controller 55. A main circuit A is formed by connecting the first compressor 11, the four-way selector valve 12, the heat source heat exchanger 13, the first flow controller 51 and the first load heat exchanger 52 with a liquid pipe 1 and a gas pipe 2 sequentially. A load refrigerant circuit B is formed by connecting the second compressor 53, the second load heat exchanger 54, the second flow controller 55, and the first load heat exchanger 52 with a load refrigerant pipe line 56 sequentially. |
| US08015833B2 |
Automotive climate system and method of controlling same
An automotive climate control system includes an evaporator, a variable speed compressor and a controller. The controller is configured to periodically alter a previous target evaporator temperature at a selected rate to generate a current target evaporator temperature, select a target compressor speed based on a difference between an actual evaporator temperature and the current target evaporator temperature, and command the compressor to operate at the target compressor speed. |
| US08015829B2 |
Combustor
A gas turbine engine combustor has forward bulkhead extending between inboard and outboard walls and cooperating therewith to define a combustor interior volume or combustion chamber. At least one of the walls has an exterior shell and an interior shell including a number of panels. Each panel has interior and exterior surfaces and a perimeter having leading and trailing edges and first and second lateral edges. A number of cooling passageways have inlets on the panel exterior surface and outlets on the panel interior surface. The shell has a plurality of holes for directing air to a space between the shell and heat shield and adapted for preferentially directing said air toward leading edge portions of first stage vanes of a turbine section. |
| US08015826B2 |
Engine brake for part load CO reduction
Aspects of the invention relate to a system and method for operating a turbine engine assembly. The turbine engine assembly has a turbine engine having a compressor section, a combustor section and a turbine section. The combustor section has a lower T_PZ limit and the turbine engine has a design load. The assembly further includes at least one air bleed line from the compressor and at least one valve for controlling air flow through the bleed line. Control structure is provided for opening the valve to allow bleed air to flow through the bleed line when an operating load is less than the design load. The flow rate through the bleed line is increased as the operating load is decreased, reducing the power delivered by the turbine assembly while maintaining the T_PZ above a lower T_PZ limit. A method for operating a turbine engine assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08015822B2 |
Method for controlling an exhaust gas recirculation system
The present invention takes the form of a method and system that may reduce the level of SOx emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust of at least one turbomachine; the portion of exhaust may be mixed with the inlet air prior to re-entering the turbomachine. The present invention may incorporate an inlet bleed heat system to reduce the likelihood of the liquid products forming from SOx emissions. Here, a method may maintain a temperature of the inlet fluid above a condensation temperature. |
| US08015821B2 |
Apparatus and method for a gas turbine entrainment system
This invention relates to an apparatus for an entrainment system of a vortex burning combustion chamber or a vortex burning inter-turbine burner in a gas turbine. The entrainment system rapidly and thoroughly mixes hot combustion gases with non-combustion gases to reduce the gas temperature before entering a turbine. The entrainment system includes a plurality of helical vanes forming trenches and resulting in a highly helical flow path. The highly helical flow path provides an increased residence time for mixing of the combustion gases and non-combustion gases. Radial cavities in the helical vanes, canted vane angles and varying geometries further facilitate mixing while reducing losses. This invention also includes a method of mixing combustion and non-combustion gases in an entrainment system. |
| US08015820B2 |
Gas turbine engine exhaust component and manufacturing method of same
A gas turbine exhaust component, such as an exhaust nozzle, is provided that includes circumferential ribs arranged along a longitudinal axis. Longitudinal strakes are supported by the circumferential ribs and arranged about the longitudinal axis. Fastening elements are used to secure the longitudinal strakes to one another to provide a desired exhaust component contour. In one example, fastening elements are used to secure the longitudinal strakes to the circumferential ribs using a bracket. The longitudinal strakes are preformed into the desired exhaust component contour, using low cost forming methods. The longitudinal strakes are formed to fit the circumferential ribs and provide the desired exhaust component contour. The longitudinal strakes are secured to one another to maintain the desired exhaust component contour. The longitudinal strakes may be provided by a low cost steel, in one example. |
| US08015818B2 |
Cooled transition duct for a gas turbine engine
A transition duct (30) for a gas turbine engine (2) having improved cooling and reduced stress levels. The transition duct may be formed of two panels ((36, 38) joined together with welds (40) disposed remote from the bent corner regions (34) of the panels. Cooling channels (32) extending longitudinally in the direction of flow of the hot combustion gas carried by the duct are formed within each panel, including the corner regions. Because the entire annular width (W) of the transition duct is cooled, the gap (G) separating adjacent ducts around the inlet to the turbine (4) may be reduced when compared to prior art designs. Two-panel construction with welds remote from the corner regions is facilitated by maintaining the minimum bend radius in the corners (R2) and in the direction of flow (R4) to be greater than in prior art designs. |
| US08015816B2 |
Apparatus for discouraging fuel from entering the heat shield air cavity of a fuel injector
A gas turbine fuel injector includes a nozzle body having a radially inner wall proximate to an internal air path and a radially outer wall. An insulative gap is defined between the radially inner and outer walls. The inner and outer walls are adapted and configured for relative axial movement at a first interface. An inhibitor ring is disposed proximate a downstream end of the inner wall for discouraging fuel from entering the insulative gap. A second interface is formed between the downstream end of the inner wall and an upstream end of the inhibitor ring to accommodate relative axial movement of the inner and outer walls. |
| US08015814B2 |
Turbine engine having folded annular jet combustor
A combustor for a turbine engine is disclosed. The combustor may have a can-like dilution zone, a primary combustion zone, and a secondary combustion zone. The primary combustion zone may be disposed radially about the can-like dilution zone. The secondary combustion zone may be disposed at an end of the can-like dilution zone to fluidly communicate the primary combustion zone and the can-like dilution zone. |
| US08015813B2 |
Fuel injector for injecting fuel into a turbomachine combustion chamber
A fuel injector for injecting fuel into a turbomachine combustion chamber, the injector presenting an injector nose for connection to an injection system fastened to the end wall of said combustion chamber, the injector nose comprising: a first channel for passing a flow of an air/fuel pre-mixture towards the combustion chamber, the first channel opening out into the center of the injector nose via an outlet opening for the air/fuel pre-mixture; an electrical insulator surrounding said outlet opening for the air/fuel pre-mixture; a plasma generator system disposed inside said electrical insulation and downstream from said outlet opening for the air/fuel pre-mixture in order to control ignition and combustion of the air/fuel pre-mixture; a second channel for passing a flow of fuel towards the combustion chamber, the second channel opening out outside said electrical insulation; and a third channel for passing a flow of fuel towards the combustion chamber, this third channel opening out outside the second channel. |
| US08015812B1 |
Power conversion systems
Power generation systems and methods are provided with features directed to various innovations including ones relating to the conversion of concentrated solar and biomass energy to electricity, load-shifting of electrical power supply systems, gas turbine devices and cycles, and power plant control systems. |
| US08015810B2 |
Control of turbocharger lubrication for hybrid electric vehicle
A lubrication control system includes an accumulator to store oil. The accumulator can be filled with oil during operation of an engine. A control valve can be selectively operated to allow oil stored in the accumulator to flow to a turbocharger. At least one control module can control operation of a hybrid electric vehicle and determine an operating condition of the engine and command the control valve to open and close based on the operating condition. |
| US08015808B2 |
Power plant with energy recovery from fuel storage
Power plant systems and processes are described that enable recovery of at least a portion of the fuel storage energy associated with a storage system for supplying fuel to the power plant systems. A first embodiment of an energy-recovery power plant system includes at least one fuel storage container and at least one expander that can receive fuel from the fuel storage container at a first pressure and provide the fuel to the power plant at a second pressure that is lower than the first pressure. A second embodiment of an energy-recovery power plant system includes a first conduit fluidly coupling the fuel storage container and the power plant for delivering fuel from the fuel storage container to the power plant and at least one regenerative thermodynamic cycle engine thermally coupled to the first conduit such that heat may be exchanged between the fuel and a working fluid for the regenerative thermodynamic cycle engine. |
| US08015793B2 |
Fuel heating via exhaust gas extraction
A method and system for heating fuel for a gas turbine engine by using excess heat energy in the engine exhaust gas to heat the fuel and returning the cooled exhaust gas back to the engine exhaust gas stream upstream of an emissions sensor is disclosed. The method and system comprises providing a heat exchanger having an exhaust gas passage and a fuel passage, extracting high temperature exhaust gas from the engine exhaust gas stream and passing the high temperature exhaust gas through the exhaust gas passage. Fuel is passed through the fuel passage where excess heat energy in the high temperature exhaust gas is used to heat the fuel. The temperature of the heated fuel is controlled by controlling the flow of the high temperature exhaust gas through the exhaust gas passage. |
| US08015789B2 |
Anti-icing apparatus and method for aero-engine nose cone
An aero-engine nose cone anti-icing system (10) using a rotating heat pipe (12) is provided to replace the current method of blowing hot compressor bleed air over the nose cone surface. Heat is transferred from a hot source (36) within the engine (22) to the nose cone (18) through a rotating heat pipe (12) along the central shaft (16). A condenser (20) and evaporator (14) are provided which are adapted to the heat transfer requirements and space constraints in the engine (22). |
| US08015782B2 |
Case packer
Cigarette cartons are boxed by a case packer comprising a frame mounted on a base, a feed unit supplying collapsed box blanks, a station at which the boxes are packed, a feed unit by which the cartons are directed along a path running perpendicular to a feed path followed by the blanks, also first and second folding and closing assemblies by which the top end face and the bottom end face of the erected box are formed. The machine base affords a plurality of mounting points arranged symmetrically on either side of a vertical median plane, passing longitudinally through the base, so that the position of the feed unit can be reversed in mirror image relative to the median plane, as also can the positions of the first folding and closing assembly and the second folding and closing assembly. |
| US08015779B2 |
Portioning and packaging apparatus and method
A portioning and packaging apparatus and a portioning and packaging method. The portioning and packaging apparatus has a conveyor device for filling material which has a pump for producing a continuous volume flow, a filling tube which is connected to the conveyor device and which provides a supply of a tubular packaging case such that it can be pulled off the filling tube with the filling material which is expelled through the filling tube, a closure device which is arranged downstream of the filling tube and which locally constricts the filled packaging case to provide a tube end plait portion during the filling operation and closes a closure element around the tube end plait portion. The closure device also has a control device which produces a control signal for the constriction and closure operations on the basis of a selected portion size and the continuous volume flow and outputs it to a drive of the closure device. |
| US08015777B2 |
Method for filling capsule body with tablet and device for filling capsule with tablet by using that filling method
A plurality of flat tablets are held in containing holes (211) by pinching the circumferential edge of the flat tablet (t) at the lowermost position at the lower end of the containing hole, and then pinching state of the tablet (t) at the lowermost position is released thus dropping the plurality of flat tablets (t) under a flat state into a capsule body (m) arranged below. The capsule body can be surely filled with a predetermined number of flat tablets under a flat state by preventing occurrence of flat tablets under a standing state effectively. |
| US08015773B2 |
Fastener with stepped head for composite decking
A fastener with a head having a stepped configuration in assist in drawing down a composite material about a fastener to reduce flagging. |
| US08015770B2 |
Roof membrane and roof system using the membrane to simulate a standing seam metal roof
A roof membrane is disclosed, for use in simulating a standing seam metal roof when applied to a roof surface and a roof system is also provided, that employs the roof membrane, disposed between longitudinal, but spaced-apart, generally parallel roof battens. Underlayments of various constructions are also provided, beneath the membrane, as an option. Caps are provided for upstanding legs of the roof battens. |
| US08015768B2 |
Insulation panel
A subject of the invention is the lining panel with insulation. The panel is a thin, cuboidal block made of a porous insulation material with internal protruding elements on two adjacent sides and frontal undercuts on the remaining sides, having parallel horizontal protruding elements on the external surface, where the distance between the two adjacent protruding elements is a standardised width of ceramic tiles and it has the developed surfaces between the protruding elements (4.) and round pressed forms evenly distributed in rows (5.), with dimensions corresponding to edges of expansion bolts, and in the centres thereof the forms contain deeper aligning pressed forms (6). The panel is made of the expanded polyurethane resin or of a rigid structural foam having an increased hardness. |
| US08015754B2 |
Containerized access control unit
A portable container is provided which comprises a passing room(s) allowing entry into a second area into a first area, the passing room having at least two openings with a walkway in-between. Barrier device(s) can be located in the walkway but not connected to the first or second opening. A control room(s) can also be provided, the control room being connected to the passing room(s). |
| US08015752B2 |
Child safety gate apparatus, systems, and methods
A child safety gate apparatus, system, and method comprises a barrier that is securable in a passageway and comprises at least one pair of correlated magnets capable of being aligned such that an attractive force secures or locks the gate. |
| US08015749B2 |
Bouquet of flowers presentation device
The invention relates to a conical device for presenting individual bouquets of flowers, said device being characterized in that it comprises a regulatable closing system consisting of complementary (3) nesting male and female three-dimensional geometrical structures, the undercut outer side of the male three-dimensional geometrical structures (6) coming into contact with the undercut inner side of the female three-dimensional geometrical structures (7). |
| US08015748B2 |
Collapsible trap
A collapsible trap (10) particularly suitable as a crab pot for trapping crabs. The collapsible trap (10) comprises a frame structure (13) having a central axis and pliant material such as netting (15) attached to the frame structure (13). A haul line (11) is connected to the frame structure (13). The frame structure (13) comprises a plurality of elongate frame elements (31). The frame structure (13) is moveable between a retracted condition in which the frame elements (31) extend generally parallel to central axis and an extended condition in which the frame elements (31) extend outwardly of the central axis giving form and shape to the netting (15) to provide an enclosure (17) defining an entrapment zone (19). When the frame structure (13) is in the retracted condition, the netting (15) can be wrapped about the frame structure (13) to assume a compact condition for storage and transportation. In one arrangement, the enclosure (17) is configured as a cage having several entry openings (27) through which crabs can enter the enclosure (17), and an access way (81) incorporating an opening (83) for retrieval of crabs trapped within the enclosure (17). |
| US08015743B2 |
Laser emitter mounting system for large caliber guns
A system and method for mounting large caliber guns with a laser emitter is disclosed. The laser emitter mounting system includes an elongated tubular member for insertion into a gun chamber. The elongated tubular member is compressively secured within the gun bore. A mounting surface for a laser emitter and a breech assembly detachably engaged with the elongated tubular member by an anti-roll plate. |
| US08015742B2 |
Firearm with an ergonomic reloading control group
A firearm includes a receiver, a lower receiver, a magazine supported by a magazine catch, a grip, a bolt and a bolt-slide, and a slide catch lever. The bolt and bolt-slide are moveable during the firing procedure of a shot. The slide catch lever automatically blocks the bolt-slide when the magazine is empty. The firearm also includes a moveable ergonomic control group that includes a control button to eject the magazine and activate the slide catch lever. The moveable ergonomic control group also includes a vertical rod, which extends above from the button as far as the slide catch lever. The moveable ergonomic control group is manually activated by the user with the same hand holding the grip. |
| US08015739B2 |
Graphical assembly
An overload protection device using a slide sheet and a number of hooking through holes formed in a receiving groove to lock a holder onto a base. the receiving groove is defined in the base, the slide sheet is slidably received in the receiving groove via a spring. The slide sheet and the hooking through holes can be concealed by the holder when the holder is locked onto the base. |
| US08015738B2 |
Display stand
The advertising display stand includes a planar base with two opposed mounting brackets secured on an upper surface of the base. A collapsible support post of a rectangular configuration is secured atop the base due to engagement with the brackets. The collapsible support post in a non-collapsed state includes opposed slots that receive and engage upwardly extending portions of the mounting brackets. An advertising media is provided on or supported by the support post. In one embodiment the support post is formed from stacked elements of a known segmented wall advertising system. |
| US08015737B2 |
Barrier cover
A post cover with advertising for use with a substantially semi-circular guard post of the type commonly found surrounding fuel pumps at gasoline stations. The post cover has a substantially semi-circular shape with an interior cavity dimensioned to receive a generally semi-circular guard post in slip fit engagement. The cover is generally molded of a resilient, durable, low maintenance and exposure resistant structural plastic that can be treated during the molding process with coloring agents and chemical additives to enhance its esthetic and resiliency character respectively. |
| US08015733B2 |
Walk-behind trenching machine
A walk-behind trenching vehicle incorporating a trenching boom with an endless trenching chain. The trenching boom may be connected to a forward end of the vehicle via a dual pivot mechanism. The boom may be movable between an operating position and a transport position via a single actuator, e.g., hydraulic cylinder. |
| US08015722B1 |
Apparatus and method for measuring internal clearances
A device for measuring internal clearances includes a base having a base surface. A first leg in sliding engagement with the base includes a first leg surface and a first distal end. When the base surface abuts a component, a predetermined distance between the base surface and the first leg surface results in the first distal end being located in the clearance. A method for measuring a clearance includes inserting a leg of a device into a borehole and moving the device rearward until the device abuts the borehole. The method further includes withdrawing the leg from the borehole, extending the leg in the clearance, and measuring the distance that the leg was extended after being withdrawn. |
| US08015718B2 |
Orientation-sensitive signal output
Orientation-sensitive signal output, in which a neutral position of a device is automatically determined in relation to at least a first axis, an angular displacement of the device is measured about at least the first axis, and shaking of the device is detected. A selection of the first control is received, and an output signal is output based at least upon the selection and the angular displacement or based upon detecting the shaking of the device. |
| US08015716B2 |
Eyeglass frame shape measurement apparatus
An apparatus for measuring a shape of an eyeglass frame, includes: a tracing stylus moving unit that includes a tracing stylus detecting a position of a rim of the frame in a moving radius direction and in a vertical direction, a tracing stylus shaft for the tracing stylus, a holding unit configured to vertically-movably hold the tracing stylus shaft, a vertical direction moving unit for moving the holding unit in the vertical direction, and a moving radius direction moving unit for moving the holding unit in the moving radius direction so that the tracing stylus traces the rim; a vertical position detection unit for detecting a position of the tracing stylus in the vertical direction; and a controller for obtaining a next measurement position of the holding unit in the vertical direction based on the detecting result of the vertical position detection unit, and controls the vertical direction moving unit. |
| US08015715B2 |
Log flattening chain saw arrangement
A chain saw arrangement for cutting flat sides or kerfs on a round log or timber. The arrangement includes a chain saw housing at a first end of the chain saw. An elongated chain/blade supporting frame extends from the chain saw housing. A multi-tooth chain/blade is movably supported from the elongated frame. A support bracket is secured to one side of the elongated frame for providing restricted support of the chain/blade on a log or timber during cutting of a transverse kerf thereon. |
| US08015709B1 |
Wood-based composite panel with reduced top surface edge flare
The present invention provides a wood-based composite panel that is not susceptible to top surface edge swell, and methods of making the panel. |
| US08015706B2 |
Gas turbine floating collar
A method of providing a floating collar for a gas turbine engine combustor is provided, and comprises providing an annular sheet metal blank and bending the blank to provide the floating collar with an axial extending annular collar portion, an annular flange portion extending radially from the collar portion and a smooth transition portion between the collar and flange portions. The arrangement offers reduced cost, and simplicity, and therefore facilitates manufacturing. |
| US08015700B2 |
Method of fabricating wiring board and method of fabricating semiconductor device
A method of fabricating a wiring board includes forming a resist layer, such as a solder or plating resist layer, defining an opening portion on a support board such that a portion of the support board is exposed. An electrode is formed directly on the support board within the opening portion, and the plating resist layer, when used, is removed. An insulating layer is formed on the electrode, as well as the support board or solder resist layer, and a wiring portion connected to the electrode at the insulating layer is also formed. A solder resist layer having an opening portion is then formed on the wiring portion, and the support board is removed to expose a surface of the electrode or a surface of the electrode and insulating layer. Another solder resist layer having an opening portion may then be formed on the exposed surface of the insulating layer. |
| US08015698B2 |
Application tool for coaxial cable compression connectors
A tool for installing compression connectors of various sizes and types on the end of a coaxial cable has a base mounting a pair of movable anvils for engaging two different lengths of connectors. The base further incorporates a fixed anvil for engaging a third length of connector. The movable anvils define an aperture which is shaped to permit easy entry and exit of a cable while still applying a suitable retention force to an inserted cable. A connector seating holder is formed in the front of the tool. A slidably mounted plunger cooperates with the anvils to compress a connector. The plunger has a push head and a slide rod. A lock nut is threaded on the push head and is engageable with the slide rod to prevent rotation of the push head. |
| US08015694B2 |
Method for making a scissoring-type current-perpendicular-to-the-plane (CPP) magnetoresistive sensor
A “scissoring-type” current-perpendicular-to-the-plane (CPP) magnetoresistive sensor with dual ferromagnetic sensing or free layers separated by a nonmagnetic spacer layer has improved stability as a result of etch-induced uniaxial magnetic anisotropy in each of the free layers. Each of the two ferromagnetic free layers has an etch-induced uniaxial magnetic anisotropy and an in-plane magnetic moment substantially parallel to its uniaxial anisotropy in the quiescent state, i.e., the absence of an applied magnetic field. The etch-induced uniaxial anisotropy of each of the free layers is achieved either by direct ion etching of each of the free layers, and/or by ion etching of the layer on which each of the free layers is deposited. A strong magnetic anisotropy is induced in the free layers by the etching, which favors generally orthogonal orientation of the two free layers in the quiescent state. |
| US08015689B2 |
Tag tool protective device, system, and method
A protective assembly for a tag tool includes a shoe, a shoe spring coupled to the shoe, a tag spring, and a thimble. The shoe includes a shoe bore extending through a distal end of the shoe, where the shoe is adapted to attach to a tag tool having a tag tool needle extending from the tool. The tag spring is coupled to the shoe adjacent the shoe spring and distal ends of the shoe spring and tag spring define an opening to receive a product tag therebetween. The distal end of the tag spring and the shoe define a slot to receive a product material therebetween. The thimble is adapted to move through the shoe bore in response to a force applied to a distal end of the thimble and transmit at least a portion of the force to the tag spring and the shoe spring. |
| US08015688B2 |
Method and apparatus for hemming and sealing a joint
An apparatus and method is provided for hemming together a pair of panels and immediately sealing the hemmed joint against the intrusion of moisture. A tool mount is attached to a multi-axis manipulator such as a robot for moving the tool mount along the edge portions of the panels. A hemming roller is mounted on the tool mount and adapted to be moved along the edge portions of the panels by the multi axis manipulator to fold the flanged edge portion of the outer panel onto the edge portion of inner panel as the tool mount traverses the edge portions of the panels. A sealing mechanism is mounted on the tool mount adjacent to the hemming roller to seal the hemmed joint immediately after the flanged edge portion is folded onto the inner panel. The sealing mechanism may be a dispenser of adhesive sealer or a friction stir welder. |
| US08015686B2 |
Method and device for supply of connecting elements to a processing apparatus
In a method of supplying connecting elements to a processing unit, in which the connecting elements are placed in readiness by a supply unit and conveyed individually by a passage to a loading device arranged on the processing unit, the conveyance of the connecting elements takes place in two separate steps, a first step in which the connecting elements are individually conveyed by the supply unit into a intermediate reservoir arranged near the loading device, and a second step in which a single connecting element at a time is conveyed from the intermediate reservoir into the loading device of the processing unit. Specifically, at least two different connecting elements are picked up by the intermediate reservoir, and of the several connecting elements accommodated in the intermediate reservoir an arbitrary one determined by the processing operation is selected for the second step and conveyed to the loading device. A device for practicing the method includes an intermediate reservoir preceding the loading device comprising two storage chambers to accommodate two different connecting elements supplied by the passage, the storage chambers having an entrance opening and an exit opening alternately connectable to the associated segment of the passage. |
| US08015677B2 |
Embalming fluid
An embalming fluid together with methods and kits for use in preparing the present embalming fluid, are provided, in which the fluid includes a pseudoplasticizing vegetable based, water-soluble polymer and a non-toxic disinfectant and which is essentially free from aldehyde. The preferred disinfectant is an iodine-based disinfectant, polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine being particularly preferred. |
| US08015674B2 |
Slide fastener engaging element and slide fastener
A metallic engaging element of vintage type having a pair of leg portions formed so as to branch to right and left sections from the bottom of a body portion of the engaging element. The leg portions are formed into an L-like sectional shape including a sheet-like nipping portion and a leg portion side wall. The sheet-like nipping portion has a notch portion for sandwiching one side edge portion of a fastener tape from the front and rear surfaces. At least one projecting portion is formed in each of leg portion inner wall surfaces opposing the one side edge portion of the fastener tape in the leg portion side wall. |
| US08015670B2 |
Module feeder with non-traveling unwrapper
A system for removing plastic wrapping from round cotton modules includes a gantry having a stationary base located in front of a disperser. A separate conveyor between the gantry and the disperser receives unwrapped round cotton modules from the gantry. Because the gantry is stationary while the disperser digests an upstream module, a gap is created between the upstream module and the module being unwrapped. This gap is closed up when the most recently unwrapped module is placed on the separate conveyor which is driven at a high rate of speed to abut, nor nearly abut, the modules. |
| US08015666B2 |
Magnetic hinge assembly
A hinge assembly includes a pivot shaft, a fixing module, a rotatable module, and a fixing member. The pivot shaft includes a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The fixing module is non-rotatably sleeved on the pivot shaft adjacent to the first end and includes a first magnet. The rotatable module is rotatably sleeved on the pivot shaft adjacent to the second end and includes a second magnet. A polarity of the second magnet faces an opposite polarity of the first magnet such that the first and second magnets creating an attracting force. The rotatable module is pushed to tightly contact the fixing module by the attracting force such that a friction is created between the rotatable module and the fixing module to hold the rotatable module. The fixing member is fixed at the second end of the pivot shaft. |
| US08015661B2 |
Vacuum with rechargeable battery
A vacuum cleaner includes a tank having a bottom and an inlet for receiving debris, a motor assembly disposed adjacent to the tank, the motor assembly adapted to draw debris into the tank through the inlet, a battery pack disposed adjacent the bottom of the tank, and a connection from the battery pack to the motor assembly that is adapted to carry current between the battery pack and the motor assembly. The battery pack includes at least one battery and supplies power to the motor assembly. |
| US08015658B2 |
Hover vacuum cleaner
A self-propulsion hovering vacuum cleaner for domestic or industrial application has air outlets predisposed symmetrically along the longitudinal axis of the underside of the casing for directing more air to the front and back directions of the vacuum cleaner to achieve even distribution of air underneath the vacuum cleaner, thereby reducing juddering or rocking effects. The underside of the casing has a curved surface predisposed symmetrically along the longitudinal axis of the underside of the casing for better retention of air to enhance the hovering effect. In another embodiment of the present invention, air distribution channels are predisposed symmetrically on both sides of the underside of the casing along the longitudinal axis. The air distribution channels are in communication with the air outlets for directing more air to the front and back of the vacuum cleaner. The improved hovering vacuum machine also has self-propulsion features and self-cooling features. |
| US08015653B2 |
Applicator device
An applicator device for applying a substance to an area of the body that is difficult to reach includes a collapsible handle and a head portion rotatably mounted on one end. The head portion includes an attachment means, which can comprise either a field of hooks or a field of loops. The attachment means receives a two-sided pad engagement member that preferably has fields of loops or hooks on one side to engage the respective hooks or loops of the attachment member, and a field of hooks on its opposite side. The hooks of the pad engagement member can securely retain a pad that carries the substance to be applied to the body. |
| US08015649B2 |
Personal care article with vibrating head part
An interdental treatment device, such as a toothbrush, includes a handle configured to accommodate an electric power source, a head carrying an interdental treatment tool, and a neck between the handle and the head. The head or neck includes a mechanical motorized vibratory device, including a drive which causes the head to vibrate. Electrical connections are operably connected to the mechanical vibratory device and the electric power source to power the mechanical vibratory device via the electrical connections. In various embodiments, a switch may be operably connected to at least one of the electrical connections to interrupt power from the power source to the mechanical motorized vibratory device. In various embodiments, a vibration-damping structure dampens vibration transmission from the head to the handle. |
| US08015648B2 |
System for removably joining a driven member to a driven member with workpiece
The system includes a plurality of joining assemblies (37, 38, 39) for removably attaching a driven member assembly (15) of the appliance to an appliance body portion (12), wherein the joining assemblies are separate from the torsional axis of the workpiece. The joining assemblies each include an extending pin member (43) on the appliance body and a receiving element (46) in the driven member assembly for receiving the extending pin member. A drive shaft (16) for the workpiece is connected to a head portion (24) of the driven member assembly by two springs (32, 34), wherein the extending pin member mates with the receiving element in such a manner that there is no lost motion of the workpiece during operation but also such that the driven member assembly is readily removable from the appliance body. |
| US08015647B2 |
Extended safety cage for retractable gangway
An extended safety cage provides access to a plurality of hatches on the top of a mobile container. The cage is rotatably attached to the end of a gangway, which extends from and is rotatably attached to a platform. The platform carries a pair of braces that extend out in opposite directions and support the cage through spring-loaded lifting arms. The apparatus can include actuators, such as hydraulic or pneumatic actuators, that urge the gangway and cage downward when activated. Secondary braces ensure that the lifting arms and safety cage move in unison. |
| US08015644B2 |
Method for controlling washing machine
A method for controlling a washing machine is disclosed. The method for controlling a washing machine having a steam generator includes a step of automatically discharging water of the steam generator outside of the steam generator during the operation of the washing machine. Therefore, according to the present invention, foreign substances may be efficiently prevented from precipitating in the steam generator. |
| US08015642B1 |
Multipurpose handheld tool and associated method
A multipurpose handheld tool includes a casing having a cavity and two flanges at the end of the casing, and a variety of tools pivotally coupled to the casing. Each of the tools is independently articulated along a unique arcuate path defined between retracted and deployed positions. The apparatus include a plurality of tools such as a wine knife with a lemon skin peeler; a serrated cutting utensil; a can opener; and a bottle cap popper preferably having a concave curvilinear edge and a clock positioned at the proximal end of the casing. In particular, one of the tools is a bifurcated wine key lever having two members held together by a resilient metal band. A writing utensil and a retractable flashlight are also provided. |
| US08015641B2 |
Cushion and method for manufacturing the same
A cushion unit includes shell having a first cushion retaining portion and a second cushion retaining portion that are demarcated by a hinge-seam including a fastener portion. The fastener portion is secured to an inboard surface of the shell. According to an embodiment, the cushion unit includes a cushion member affixed to an inboard surface of the shell. According to an embodiment, the fastener portion is secured directly to an outboard surface of the cushion member and secured indirectly to an inboard an inboard surface of the shell. According to an embodiment, the fastener portion is secured directly to an inboard an inboard surface of the shell. A method for manufacturing a cushion unit is disclosed. A method for providing a cushion unit is also disclosed. |
| US08015638B2 |
X-linked lift mechanism
An X-linked lift mechanism having first links (3) and second links (4) constituting an X-linked mechanism between a base frame (1) and a lift frame (2). A drive member (11) is pivotally rotatably installed between the other lateral side portions of the second links and is connected with boost arms (12) and a drive arm (13). Guide members (15) are provided for guiding the moving members (14) installed at the ends of the boost arms. The guide members are installed on the other lateral side portions of the first links in the length direction. Also, a linear actuator is provided so as to extend between the other lateral side of the first links and the drive arm. |
| US08015636B2 |
Cornerless sheets
This invention relates to flat bedding top sheets having releasable corner fasteners adapted to releasably secure sheet to an underlying mattress by having male elements placed on one side panel brought into alignment and contact with female elements located on opposite corresponding side panels to form corners. Specifically, the bed sheet of the present invention is a fitted flat sheet having a cutout portions at both of its bottom corners that permit, with the aid of separable fasteners located at the cutout portions, to convert the sheet from a planar configuration to a configuration comprising two pockets adapted to retain the sheet on the mattress. The top sheets of the present invention do not require elastic strips around the corners of the sheets to secure the sheet to the mattress. |
| US08015635B1 |
Structural bunk system
A structural bunk system for a sleeper cab or other confined space is provided. The bunk system includes first and second shells that are made by injection molding and are then bonded together. The structural bunk system is secured to the wall of the sleeper cab or other confined space and is adapted to be moved between and upright stowed position and a lowered sleeping or storage position. |
| US08015626B2 |
Safety helmet with module ring
A safety helmet (1) has a circumferential module ring (2), made especially of a thermoplastic plastic. The module ring (2), has a plurality of plug-in slots (3), which are located at spaced locations from one another in the direction of the module ring (2). This provides standardized simultaneous mounting possibilities for various functional accessories with plug elements complementary to the plug-in slots (3). |
| US08015623B2 |
Belt extender
A belt extender for installation on a belt with a removable buckle comprising a main body with a first end and a second end, a metal tab fixedly attached to and extending from a first end of the main body of the belt extender, and a longitudinal slot roughly centrally disposed on the main body of the belt extender. The main body folds over itself at a fold line that extends through the center of the longitudinal slot and is secured in place with snap fasteners to create a folded end. A belt buckle comprising a tongue and a frame is installed on the folded end of the belt extender by sliding the frame of the belt buckle over the second end of the belt extender and inserting the tongue through the longitudinal slot prior to folding. The metal tab is inserted into a longitudinal slot on the buckle end of the belt strap and rotated so that the main body of the belt extender is aligned with the belt strap on the buckle end of the belt. |
| US08015621B2 |
Protective shoulder pads
A protective shoulder pad assembly for use in contact sports. The shoulder pad assembly includes a flexible vest, a pair of rigid shoulder pads attached to the vest, and a pair of straps extending from a back side of the vest. The straps can each be refastenably attached to a front side of the vest. In particular, the straps can be crossed over one another in an “X” configuration on the front side of the vest, thereby directly securing each strap to both a front right portion and a front left portion of the vest. |
| US08015620B2 |
Vapor permeable retroreflective garment
Vapor permeable retroreflective material for use on protective garments. The material may be formed in a non-continuous pattern that provides a high-level of retroreflective brightness, yet also provides adequate permeability to prevent exposure to trapped thermal energy and heated moisture. The non continuous retroreflective pattern may include retroreflective regions and non retroreflective regions arranged such that thermal decay through the protective garment is not substantially decreased in the regions corresponding to the retroreflective material. Rather, vapor permeation and thermal decay through the garment may be substantially the same as if the retroreflective material was not present. |
| US08015617B1 |
Ballistic resistant body armor articles
The present invention relates to body armor articles for resisting ballistic objects. The articles comprise woven fabric layers and sheet layers. The woven fabric layers are made from yarns having a tenacity of at least 7.3 grams per dtex and a modulus of at least 100 grams per dtex. The sheet layers comprise non-woven random oriented fibrous sheets and/or non fibrous films. The woven fabric layers and the sheet layers are stacked together comprising a first core section which includes at least two repeating units of, in order, at least one of the woven fabric layers then at least one of the sheet layers. The sheet layers comprise 0.5 to 30 wt % of the total weight of the article. |
| US08020216B2 |
Tapered probe structures and fabrication
Probe structures and fabrication techniques are described. The described probe structures can be used as probes for various applications such as conductance measurement probes, field emitter probes, nanofabrication probes, and magnetic bit writing or reading probes. |
| US08020213B2 |
Access control method and a system for privacy protection
A method for protecting information in a distributed stream processing system, including: assigning a principal label to a processing component; assigning a first channel label to a first communication channel that is input to the processing component; comparing the principal label to the first channel label to determine if the processing component can read data attributes of the first channel label; and reading the data attributes of the first channel label when the principal label is equal to or has precedence over the first channel label, wherein the principal label includes a read label and a write label and at least one of a selection label, an addition label or a suppression label. |
| US08020212B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method, content management system, information recording medium, and computer program
An information processing apparatus including a data processor and a communication unit is provided. For a content management unit provided with corresponding usage control information, the data processor executes a program corresponding to the content management unit, and obtains identification information set for the content management unit from an information recording medium and sends, via the communication unit, the obtained identification information to an access destination which is determined based on information indicated in the program, so that the data processor performs processing for obtaining download data set for the content management unit via the communication unit or for obtaining playback permission information concerning content corresponding to the content management unit via the communication unit. |
| US08020211B2 |
Network security system having a device profiler communicatively coupled to a traffic monitor
A system and method for providing distributed security of a network. Several device profilers are placed at different locations of a network to assess vulnerabilities from different perspectives. The device profiler identifies the hosts on the network, and characteristics such as operating system and applications running on the hosts. The device profiler traverses a vulnerability tree having nodes representative of characteristics of the hosts, each node having an associated set of potential vulnerabilities. Verification rules can verify the potential vulnerabilities. A centralized correlation server, at a centrally accessible location in the network, stores the determined vulnerabilities of the network and associates the determined vulnerabilities with attack signatures. Traffic monitors access the attack signatures and monitor network traffic for attacks against the determined vulnerabilities. |
| US08020210B2 |
System and method for assessing risk to a collection of information resources
A system and method for assessing the risk to information resources that may include the generation and/or use of a security risk index. The security risk index may represent the security of information resources. The security risk index may be based on at least one factor. The at least one factor may be individually quantified. The at least one factor may include a threat factor associated with a rate or frequency of security events that threaten the security of the information resources, a vulnerability factor associated with a likelihood of a security event breaching the security of the information resources, an impact factor associated with an expected cost of a breach of the security of the information resources, or another type of factor. The security risk index of a subset of information resources including at least one resource may enable various comparisons and observations with respect to the security of the subset of information resources. The security risk index may be updated for a variety of reasons, such as, to be kept current, or for another reason. |
| US08020208B2 |
Intrusion management system and method for providing dynamically scaled confidence level of attack detection
An Intrusion Management System detects computer attacks and automatically adjusts confidence that an attack was correctly detected. When the Intrusion Management System detects the attack against a computer system, it does not represent an accuracy of detection as an immutable confidence value. Instead, the Intrusion Management System tabulates information indirectly related to the attack and dynamically scales the confidence in the attack detection accordingly. |
| US08020207B2 |
Containment mechanism for potentially contaminated end systems
A malware detection and response system based on traffic pattern anomalies detection is provided, whereby packets associated with a variety of protocols on each port of a network element are counted distinctly for each direction. Such packets include: ARP requests, TCP/SYN requests and acknowledgements, TCP/RST packets, DNS/NETBEUI name lookups, out-going ICMP packets, UDP packets, etc. When a packet causes an individual count or combination of counts to exceed a threshold, appropriate action is taken. The system can be incorporated into the fast path, that is, the data plane, enabling communications systems such as switches, routers, and DSLAMs to have built-in security at a very low cost. |
| US08020206B2 |
System and method of analyzing web content
A system and method are provided for identifying inappropriate content in websites on a network. Unrecognized uniform resource locators (URLs) or other web content are accessed by workstations and are identified as possibly having malicious content. The URLs or web content may be preprocessed within a gateway server module or some other software module to collect additional information related to the URLs. The URLs may be scanned for known attack signatures, and if any are found, they may be tagged as candidate URLs in need of further analysis by a classification module. |
| US08020201B2 |
Selecting a security format conversion for wired and wireless devices
A selection system and method to receive an indication of a security format from a network and to select one of a plurality of security format conversions based on the received indication is described. The indication may be an indication of a wireless security format such as WTLS used by a wireless access device or a wired security format such as SSL used by a wired access device and the security format conversion selected based on the indication may be to another secured format or a plain data format. The indication may include an indication of a port and an indication of a security feature that is supported by the access device. |
| US08020193B2 |
Systems and methods for protecting web based applications from cross site request forgery attacks
Computer implemented methods (200) for protecting web based applications (110, 114) from Cross Site Request Forgery (CSRF) attacks. The methods involve (204) classifying each resource offered by a web server application as a CSRF-protected resource or a not-CSRF-protected resource. The methods also involve (214, . . . , 222) performing a user authentication, (224) initializing an authentication-token, and (226) initializing a CSRF protection secret that is used to validate CSRF protection parameters contained in resource identifiers for the resources. The methods further involve (228) performing a server-side rewriting process (300) to add the CSRF protection parameter to the resource identifiers for the resources and/or (230) performing a client-side rewriting process to add the CSRF protection parameter to a resource identifier for a second resource (e.g., a resource created at a client computer (102)). |
| US08020192B2 |
Administration of protection of data accessible by a mobile device
The protection of data on a client mobile computing device by a server computer system such as within an enterprise network or on a separate mobile computing device is described. Security tools are described that provide different security policies to be enforced based on a location associated with a network environment in which a mobile device is operating. Methods for detecting the location of the mobile device are described. Additionally, the security tools may also provide for enforcing different policies based on security features. Examples of security features include the type of connection, wired or wireless, over which data is being transferred, the operation of anti-virus software, or the type of network adapter card. The different security policies provide enforcement mechanisms that may be tailored based upon the detected location and/or active security features associated with the mobile device. Examples of enforcement mechanisms are adaptive port blocking, file hiding and file encryption. |
| US08020191B2 |
Method and system for determining policy similarities
A method for determining similarity of two policies includes providing a first policy with n rules and a second policy with m rules, wherein each rule is structured into a plurality of identifiable elements, categorizing the rules in each policy based on an action, for each pair of rules finding those predicates whose attribute names match, computing an attribute similarity score for the attribute values, summing the attribute similarity scores for all pairs to obtain an element similarity score, and computing a rule similarity score for the pair of rules from a weighted sum of said element similarity scores. |
| US08020190B2 |
Enhanced browser security
A machine-executable method implementable in a system operable to execute a browser application having at least one security-context zone and operable to apply at least one security policy to interaction between the system and web sites corresponding to domain identifiers populating the at least one security-context zone includes comparing a first set of domain identifiers populating a first security-context zone of the at least one security-context zone with a second set of domain identifiers. The method further includes populating the first security-context zone with at least one second-set identifier not included in the first set of domain identifiers. |
| US08020188B2 |
Frame specifying method
To provide a technology of properly specifying a process target frame in a dynamic image in accordance with a user's instruction. A frame specifying device plays a dynamic image, receives, when a user performs an operation of instructing execution of a process about a partial scene in the dynamic image, an instruction signal based on the user's operation, and specifies, as triggered by receiving the instruction signal, a frame under the play or a frame distanced by a predetermined length of time from the frame under the play as the process target frame when receiving the instruction signal in the frames constructing the dynamic image. |
| US08020187B2 |
Identifying works, using a sub linear time search or a non exhaustive search, for initiating a work-based action, such as an action on the internet
An electronic document, such as an image and a text file for example, may be associated with an action by (1) electronically extracting within a client device features from the electronic document work, (2) transmitting the extracted features from the client device to one or more servers, (3) receiving at the client device from the one or more servers an identification of the electronic document work based on the extracted features, wherein the identification is based on a sub-linear search (or wherein the identification is based on a non-exhaustive search identifying a neighbor), (4) electronically determining an action based on the identification of the electronic document work, and (5) electronically performing the action on the client device. |
| US08020178B2 |
Optical disk device having supported rotating arm
An optical disk device has superior vibration characteristics by preventing vibration of a rotating arm. A desired optical disk is selected from the plurality of optical disks which are stacked and accommodated. The rotating arm is rotated to a working space provided for the desired optical disk. A turntable is positioned, and an optical head is moved to perform the recording/reproduction. Because the tip part of the rotating arm of a cantilever structure is supported by a support member extending along the axial line CL of the optical disk, it has a structure supported by both ends. Thus, the vibration of the rotating arm can be prevented. Because the support member extends along the axial line CL of the optical disk, it passes through a holding hole at the center of the optical disk and a notch provided at the center of a tray, without interference on its way, thereby supporting the rotating arm. |
| US08020177B2 |
Contained command invocation middleware framework
An object-oriented middleware framework for use in a network having a plurality of hosts including a first host having an associated first memory and first processor; and a second host having an associated second memory and second processor. The object-oriented middleware framework includes an Originator Command Container instantiating a Command by executing computer programming code stored in the first memory using the first processor. The framework also includes an Invocator Command Container, remote from the Originator Command Container and its associated first host where the instantiated Command is invoked, locally by executing computer programming code stored in the second memory using the second processor. |
| US08020175B2 |
Data processing device for renaming virtual device
A data processing device including a registering unit, a display unit, a usage frequency recording unit, and a virtual device renaming unit. The registering unit registers a plurality of communicable printers as a plurality of virtual devices. The display unit displays a plurality of virtual device names for the plurality of virtual devices. The usage frequency recording unit records usage frequencies of the virtual devices. The virtual device renaming unit changes at least one of virtual device names for the plurality of virtual devices to a device name representing the usage frequency of a corresponding virtual device recorded in the usage frequency recording unit. |
| US08020167B2 |
System and method for automatic throttling of resources in an information handling system chassis
Systems and methods for automatic throttling of resources in an information handling system are disclosed. A method may include determining whether a first throttling condition exists, the first throttling condition existing when a chassis management controller fails to communicate a clock or synchronization signal to one or more devices in an information handling system chassis for a particular duration of time. The method may also include determining whether a second throttling condition exists, the second throttling condition existing when the chassis management controller fails to communicate data to one or more devices in the information system handling chassis. The method may further include throttling a resource in the information handling system chassis if at least one of the first throttling condition and the second throttling condition exists. |
| US08020165B2 |
Dynamic affinity mapping to reduce usage of less reliable resources
In an information handling system, a plurality of system resources are usable by at least one processor. An affinity structure includes elements describing the relative accessibility of the plurality of system resources to the processor. An affinity manager adjusts the affinity structure in response to a least a first one of the plurality of system resources operating outside of at least one operating parameter. |
| US08020161B2 |
Method and system for the dynamic scheduling of a stream of computing jobs based on priority and trigger threshold
A method of executing jobs includes obtaining a first plurality of scheduled jobs, setting a first trigger threshold based on at least one of the first plurality of scheduled jobs, executing the first plurality of scheduled jobs, receiving a submitted job during the execution of the first plurality of scheduled jobs, associating the submitted job with a submitted job priority, if the submitted job priority satisfies the first trigger threshold, obtaining a second plurality of scheduled jobs, setting a second trigger threshold based on at least one of the second plurality of scheduled jobs, executing the second plurality of scheduled jobs, and if the submitted job priority does not satisfy the first trigger threshold, continuing execution of the first plurality of jobs. |
| US08020158B2 |
Installing and executing shared applications in shared folders
Provided are a method, system, and program for installing and executing shared applications in shared folders. A program is installed by a base computer, having a local storage, to a shared folder accessible to multiple client computers over a network. Installing the program adds files for the program to the shared folder and modifies the local device used by the base computer and enables the base computer to run the program by accessing the program files in the shared folder. An image is created of the local device of the base computer including the installed program. The image is provided to the client computers to apply to local devices of the client computers. Applying the image to the local devices of the client computers enables the client computers to access the program files in the shared folder to run the program. |
| US08020156B2 |
Bulk loading system and method
A method and system for providing an efficient and convenient mechanism for class loading is presented. A present system and method virtual machine includes a bulk class loading component, normal class loader and execution engine. The bulk class loading component performs bulk loading of classes in a single pass of respective code sources. The normal class loader performs normal class loading activities, including normal class hierarchy tree searches and single class loading with multiple search traversals. In one embodiment, a bulk class identification component identifies classes for bulk loading. Classes can be identified for bulk class loading based upon designated characteristics or attributes. For example, a designated characteristic can include a class that is loaded between two points in time (e.g., from startup to a predetermined time after startup). The designated characteristic can be a relationship to other classes, including dependency relationships to classes identified for bulk loading based upon other criteria. |
| US08020154B2 |
Precise handling of exceptions during program code conversion
Precise exception handling relies on a precise subject state including an accurate program counter and register values of a subject processor. Subject code (17) is translated into target code (21) executable by a target processor (13). The generated target code (17) includes counterpart target instructions (214) associated with fault-vulnerable subject code instructions (174). Further, each of the counterpart target code instruction (214) is associated with recovery information (195). When an exception (e.g. a fault) occurs, the recovery information (195) is retrieved and used to recover a precise subject state, in particular by taking account of optimizations to generate the common-case target code (21). The precise subject state is then used to precisely handle the exception. |
| US08020153B2 |
Source code checker, source code checking method, program for causing execution of the method, and storage medium for storing the program
Disclosure is made of a source code checker and a source code checking method, for checking properties related to program behaviors meant by source code for a computer program; of a program for making execute the method; and of a storage medium for storing the program. This source code checking method includes a path extracting step and a checking information determining step. The path extracting step simulates a program described in source code for a computer program preliminarily input, to extract an instruction series to be actually executed. The checking information determining step determines checking information of the source code according to the instruction series extracted in the path extracting step. |
| US08020151B2 |
Techniques for determining a web browser state during web page testing
A technique for determining a browser state during a web page test includes providing, from a test automation tool, a first input to a web page provided via a browser. The technique also includes detecting, with a network monitoring tool, outgoing traffic from the browser associated with the first input and detecting, with the network monitoring tool, incoming traffic to the browser associated with a response to the first input. An indication is provided from the network monitoring tool to the test automation tool when the incoming traffic is detected by the network monitoring tool. Finally, the test automation tool provides a second input to the web page following the indication. |
| US08020148B2 |
Bi-directional probing and testing of software
Method and system are disclosed for bi-directional probing of software. The bi-directional probe is capable of transferring data to and from a software under test. This two-way transfer of data allows the variables and arguments in the software to not only be monitored, but also changed as needed. Test vectors may be developed and inserted into the software while running for testing purposes. Regression analysis may be made easier by using data from previous iterations as input for the next iterations. |
| US08020147B2 |
Software package implementation sizing
Implementation size of a software package implementation can be determined by determining implementation sizes of modules, determining tasks to be implemented, determining a complexity factor, and calculating the implementation size based on the modules, tasks, and complexity factor. Implementation size of a software package implementation can be determined using a sizing framework. The sizing framework can comprise a repository of modules and functionality provided by the modules, a standard album of tasks, effort information for the tasks, and a repository of complexity values. A sizing tool can determine an implementation size of a software package implementation. The sizing tool can comprise user-interface pages for receiving a selection of modules, for receiving a selection of functionality, for receiving a selection of tasks to be implemented for the software package, and for receiving a selection of complexity values. The sizing tool can calculate the implementation size based on the selections. |
| US08020143B2 |
Remote aspect advising for an aspect-oriented program
An aspect-oriented system includes a way to access both local and remote advice that is consistent with the modularity concerns of an aspect-oriented program. During compilation of the aspect-oriented program, a weaver determines whether advice referenced by an aspect is local or remote. If the advice is local, the weaver applies the local advice to the base program. If the advice is remote, the weaver generates remote invocation code that may include client stubs and server code to handle the marshalling and unmarshalling of parameters. Invocations to the client stub are then inserted into the join points of the base program. At run-time, the server name and number that has the remote aspect is determined. When the client stub is invoked, the remote advice on the specified server may be accessed. The result is an improved weaver that may generate code to access remote advice in a different JVM. |
| US08020141B2 |
Operating-system process construction
Described herein is an implementation of a technology for the construction, identity, and/or optimization of operating-system processes. At least one implementation, described herein, constructs an operating-system process having the contents as defined by a process manifest. Once constructed, the operating-system process is unalterable. |
| US08020137B2 |
Structure for an on-demand power supply current modification system for an integrated circuit
A design structure for a circuit that selectively connects an integrated circuit to elements external to the integrated circuits. The circuit includes and input/output element that selectively connects an input/output pin as a function of a power requirement or a signal bandwidth requirement of the integrated circuit. The input/output element includes one or more switching devices that connect the input/output pin to an external element, such as a power supply or external signal path. The input/output element also includes one or more switching devices that connect the input/output pin to an internal element, such as a power network or internal signal line. |
| US08020135B2 |
Manufacturing aware design and design aware manufacturing of an integrated circuit
Some embodiments of the invention provide a process for designing and manufacturing an integrated circuit (“IC”). The process selects a wiring configuration and an illumination configuration. The process uses the selected wiring configuration to design an IC layout. The process then uses the selected illumination configuration to manufacture the IC based on the designed IC layout. Some embodiments select a wiring configuration based on the selected illumination configuration. In some embodiments, selecting the illumination configuration entails selecting at least one stepper lens for the IC layout, where the stepper lens illuminates at least one mask for at least one particular layer of the IC layout. Also, in some embodiments, selecting the wiring configuration entails defining the width and/or spacing of the routes along different directions on at least one particular wiring layer of the IC layout. |
| US08020129B2 |
Multiple voltage threshold timing analysis for a digital integrated circuit
An approach for performing multiple voltage threshold timing analysis for a digital integrated circuit is described. In one embodiment, there is a multiple voltage threshold timing analysis tool for performing a multiple voltage threshold timing analysis of a digital integrated circuit having at least one logic gate loaded by an interconnect circuit. In this embodiment, a characterization data retrieving component is configured to obtain characterization data describing driving behavior of the at least one logic gate. An interconnect circuit model retrieving component is configured to obtain a model of the interconnect circuit. A multiple voltage threshold timing analysis component is configured to derive a sequence of crossing times for the driving point voltage waveform to advance between successive voltage thresholds. The multiple voltage threshold timing analysis component also generates a voltage waveform from the derived sequence of crossing times. |
| US08020128B2 |
Scaling of bipolar transistors
Bipolar transistor structures, methods of designing and fabricating bipolar transistors, methods of designing circuits having bipolar transistors. The method of designing the bipolar transistor includes: selecting an initial design of a bipolar transistor; scaling the initial design of the bipolar transistor to generate a scaled design of the bipolar transistor; determining if stress compensation of the scaled design of the bipolar transistor is required based on dimensions of an emitter of the bipolar transistor after the scaling; and if stress compensation of the scaled design of the bipolar transistor is required then adjusting a layout of a trench isolation layout level of the scaled design relative to a layout of an emitter layout level of the scaled design to generate a stress compensated scaled design of the bipolar transistor. |
| US08020125B1 |
System, methods and apparatus for generation of simulation stimulus
A method and apparatus for producing a verification of digital circuits is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, a set of Boolean and Integer constraints are derived, and a set of Boolean and Integer stimuli are generated that meet the constraints. These stimuli are then used to verify a digital design, and a verification report is generated. In other example embodiments, a computing apparatus and computer software product are provided. The computer software product containing a set of executable instructions that, when executed, configure the computing apparatus to produce a verification report by the provided methods. |
| US08020124B2 |
Various methods and apparatuses for cycle accurate C-models of components
Various methods and apparatuses are described for generating a model of hardware components making up an interconnect that facilitates communications between Intellectual Property blocks in an integrated circuit coded in a software programming language at a high level of abstraction that is cycle accurate to a corresponding lower level of abstraction description of the hardware components making up the interconnect. The sub-components of the model at the high level of abstraction are tested in a simulation environment in parallel with the same sub-components of a model coded in a hardware description language at the low level of abstraction in order to verify the functional accuracy and cycle timing between the two models. After the sub-components are tested, the sub-components of the model at the high level of abstraction may be aggregated into a single model at the high level of abstraction that is functionally accurate and cycle accurate to the model at the low level of abstraction. |
| US08020122B2 |
Circuit splitting in analysis of circuits at transistor level
Operating splitting methods for splitting a circuit into two sub circuits and analyzing the two sub circuits with improved computation efficiency and processing speed. |
| US08020121B2 |
Layout method and layout apparatus for semiconductor integrated circuit
In a layout method for a semiconductor integrated circuit by using cell library data, a plurality of cell patterns are arranged in a first direction. One of gate patterns in one of the plurality of cell patterns is specified as a reference gate pattern. An additional cell pattern is arranged in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction such that a number of gate patterns within a predetermined area containing the reference gate pattern satisfies a constraint condition. |