| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08028616B2 |
Beverage maker with adjustable brew chamber
A beverage maker for brewing a beverage from water and a quantity of particle material includes a water supply structure, a brewing chamber downstream of the water supply structure, and a dispensing channel downstream of the brewing chamber. A bounding member is adjustable for adjusting the operational size of the brewing chamber, and an adjustment structure is provided for adjusting said bounding member. The adjustment structure is adjustable in response to the quantity of particles present in said brewing chamber. |
| US08028613B2 |
Valve system for drilling systems
A valve system includes a load holding valve, a feed balancing valve, and a fast feed differential valve. The load holding valve may be in fluid communication with the load holding valve. The fast feed differential valve is configured to move between an engaged state and a disengaged state. In the engaged state the fast feed differential valve fluidly couples a ring side of a feed cylinder, the load holding valve, and a piston side of the feed cylinder to allow fluid to flow from the ring side to the piston side. |
| US08028612B2 |
Transparent ballistic resistant armor
A laminated, optically transparent, ballistic resistant structure is described as having a first transparent layer, a second transparent layer of ceramic tiles spread across the first layer, and a third transparent layer. The first and third layers are bonded to opposite sides of the second layer, respectively, by transparent adhesive. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US08028610B2 |
Cutting link for a saw chain
A cutting link (1) for a saw chain includes a base body (2) and a cutting tooth (3) mounted thereon and made of hard metal. The base body (2) has rivet openings (4) and a recess (6) is formed in the base body (2) for chip removal with the recess (6) being ahead of the cutting tooth (3) in running direction. A connecting leg (8) of the cutting tooth (3) is brought into surface contact laterally of the base body (2) and the cutting tooth (3) is firmly bonded to the base body (2) by brazing. The connecting leg (8) extends so far downwardly that a lower edge (13) thereof lies lower than the recess (6). The connecting leg (8) has an upwardly raised edge (15) in its rearward region opposite the neighboring rivet opening (4). |
| US08028605B2 |
Circular dividing table for machine tool
A circular dividing table includes a brake assembly, in which the piston return spring urges the annular piston with the bottom face of its annular groove. The piston retracts backward and the floating pad return plate contacts the bracket extending inward within the cylindrical bore of the floating pad, thus urging the floating pad backward. Due to the backward displacement of the floating pad, the floating pad is forced to retract from the brake disc. Using a circular dividing table equipped with such a brake assembly, it is possible to release the clamping members forcibly and to make the action of clamping or unclamping precise and conducted with a high responsive speed. |
| US08028602B2 |
Active vibrational damper
A vibration damper and/or isolator for a rotating shaft is provided comprising a hub, an inertia element, a magneto-rheological elastic element interposed between the hub and the inertia element to non-rigidly couple the inertia element to the hub, and an electromagnet operable to produce a magnetic field across the elastic element when energized. The magneto-rheological elastic element, which may comprise a composite of magnetic-responsive particles dispersed within an elastic material, possesses a variable shear modulus that is dependent, at least in part, on the strength of a magnetic field applied to the elastic element. |
| US08028600B2 |
Shifting apparatus for dual clutch transmission
A shift apparatus for a dual clutch transmission includes a plurality of shift lugs and a shift operating module moving the shift lugs. The apparatus provides a simple structure and sufficient rigidity and durability, in addition to a simple shift of a gear. The apparatus further provides an automatic releasing function that automatically releases the prior shift stage and an active inter-lock function that prevents gears connected to the same clutch from being engaged simultaneously, and enables 6-3-stage and 5-2-stage skip shift. |
| US08028599B2 |
Vehicle
1. Vehicle (10), in particular tracked vehicle (10).2.1 The invention relates to a vehicle (10), in particular a tracked vehicle (10), having a manual controller (40) for controlling driving functions of the vehicle (10) and/or additional functions of the vehicle (10), the manual controller (40) having a base (42) and a handle which can move in relation to the base (44) and is designed such that it can pivot at least about a substantially horizontal pivot axis (44a, 44b) for control purposes.2.2 According to the invention, the handle (44) has a contact zone (46) which is to be held by the inner surface of a hand, the manual controller (40) having at least one touch sensor (50, 52) which is designed to detect that a user is touching the handle (44). |
| US08028591B2 |
System and method for selective retrieval of support beads
Systems and methods are provided that can include a storage and retrieval robot operating under program control to extract a selective number of support beads from a storage or retainment region, for dispensing to titer wells or other vessels for assays and other purposes. According to various embodiments, the storage and retrieval robot can position a capture device over any one or more storage wells containing oligonucleotide or other material support beads, and withdraw or extract those support beads into a collection tube under vacuum pressure or other force. According to various embodiments, a selected number of support beads can be extracted, using a linear motor piston to limit available space for support bead insertion. According to various embodiments, the collected support beads can be dispensed into one or more destination tubes, wells, or other containers, surfaces, vessels, receptacles or mixture containment region, for use in assays or other purposes. According to various embodiments, a calculated plurality of support beads can be extracted or mixed in selective quantities. According to various embodiments, a sample subset of the supply support beads can be taken, to calculate an amount of actual oligonucleotide contained in the support beads. According to various embodiments, an adjustment or normalization of the number of support beads dispensed can be performed to compensate for variations in oligonucleotide amount, thereby enhancing the uniformity of concentration in solution. |
| US08028588B2 |
Flow measurement using near field microwaves
A flow meter for measuring flow rate and flow composition of a process fluid includes a microwave source configured to generate a microwave signal. A probe tip is coupled to the microwave source and in near field proximity to the process fluid. The probe tip is configured to apply the microwave signal to the process fluid. A microwave detector coupled to the probe tip is configured to detect a near field microwave signal from the process fluid in response to the applied microwave signal. Flow calculation circuitry determines flow rate and/or composition of the process fluid as a function of the detected microwave signal. |
| US08028584B2 |
Pressure sensor and method for manufacturing the same
A pressure sensor includes: a housing having a pressure introduction port; and a connector case integrated with the housing. The connector case includes: a protruding portion that protrudes in the pressure introduction port along with the introduction direction from one end of the connector case, and has a concavity hollowed in a direction perpendicular to the introduction direction; a sensor chip having a pressure gauge on one surface of the chip in the concavity; a terminal having one end inserted and molded in the connector case; and a bonding wire that electrically connects the sensor chip and the one end of the terminal. The connector case seals a connection portion between the bonding wire and the terminal, a connection portion between the boding wire and the sensor chip, and the bonding wire. |
| US08028583B2 |
Method and device for identifying squeaking noises
A method for detecting squeaking noises within a sound signal generated during operation of a motor vehicle or during operation of a component thereof is described; in this method the sound signal is detected; an amplitude spectrum of the sound signal representing the amplitude distribution in a frequency range is generated at a minimum of two points in time and the existence of a squeaking noise is detected by analysis of the at least two amplitude spectra. |
| US08028581B2 |
Methods and systems for ultrasonic inspection of rotating shafts
A method of inspecting a rotatable shaft for the presence of defects may include continuously rotating a shaft under an applied load. As the shaft is rotated, an ultrasonic signal may be propagated along the length of the shaft. Attenuated or reflected ultrasonic signals may be collected from the shaft as the shaft is rotated. The presence of a defect in the shaft is determined by analyzing the collected ultrasonic signals. |
| US08028579B2 |
Vibration body for angular speed sensor
A vibration body for angular speed sensor has a vibrator that includes vibration pieces, a supporting part for supporting the vibration pieces, and a mounting substrate for mounting the vibrator. The mounting substrate has a seat part for fixing the supporting part and supporting the vibrator and a base part. The seat part has a level difference representing a predetermined height from the base part. The predetermined height is set larger than an oscillation width of the vibration pieces. The seat part also has an edge portion that has a shape of a curved line, and each line in a direction perpendicular to each position on the edge portion determines a mounting angle for mounting the vibrator and has an angle in the same direction as a reference direction defined in the mounting substrate or in a direction at least one being different from it. |
| US08028568B2 |
Method for estimating the crank angle at which 50% of the fuel mass has been burnt in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine with spontaneous mixture ignition
A method for determining the angular speed of a drive shaft of an internal combustion engine at each tooth event of a phonic wheel presenting a number N of teeth includes detecting the angular amplitude for each tooth; detecting the time of each tooth; and determining the raw angular speed of each tooth according to the corresponding angular amplitude and time. For each tooth a compensation value is determined which represents the difference between the actual angular amplitude of the tooth and the theoretic angular amplitude of the tooth; and determining the angular speed of each tooth by correcting the raw angular speed based on the corresponding compensation value. |
| US08028554B2 |
Electronic cylinder lock apparatus and methods
A cylinder lock device including: a body housing having a bore, with a direction of elongation defining an axial direction for the device; a rotatable cylindrical plug in the bore, the plug having an axially extending key slot from at least one end of the plug; a plurality of driver pins configurable substantially perpendicular to the key slot and located within the body housing and substantially outside of the plug; a plurality of tumbler pins corresponding to and positionable substantially collinear with each one of the plurality of driver pins and substantially inside the plug, the tumbler pins displaceable by a key to bias the driver pins to enable rotation of the plug, the driver pins adapted to displace the respective tumbler pins; and a displacement mechanism being deployed within the body housing and adapted to displace the plurality of driver pins thereby selectively enabling rotation of the plug when no key is present in the slot. |
| US08028550B2 |
Laundry appliance
A laundry machine configured to supply a first amount of water to the wash tub wherein a wash plate can be oscillated such that clothes items directly above and in contact with the impeller are frictionally dragged in a oscillatory manner with the wash chamber while continuing to oscillate said wash plate, an additional supply of water is added to said wash tub such that as cloth items lost frictional engagement with the wash plate, the cloth items continue to move along an inverse toroidal rollover path at higher water levels. |
| US08028549B2 |
Control device for a washing machine
A device and method for controlling a drainage pump of a washing machine. The drainage pump is powered by a synchronous motor that is connected to a mains voltage bus by a switch. During one or more stages of a washing program the switch is operated to apply in each half cycle of the mains voltage a delay time from the zero setting of the mains voltage to cause the motor to operate in a cut-wave mode. |
| US08028546B2 |
Pick-up device for picking up a tubular knitted article from a circular knitting machine for hosiery or the like and for transferring it to a unit adapted to perform additional work on the article
A pick-up device for picking up a tubular knitted article from a circular knitting machine for hosiery and for transferring the article to a unit adapted to perform additional work thereon. The device comprises an annular pick-up body that supports pick-up members that can slide with respect to the pick-up body along radial directions. The pick-up body can be arranged coaxially around the needle cylinder of a circular knitting machine for hosiery so that each one of the pick-up members faces laterally a needle of the machine. The end of each one of the pick-up members that is directed toward the axis of the pick-up body has a seat that can engage a region of the stem of the needle that is arranged proximate to the latch of the needle on the opposite side with respect to the head of the needle. The device comprises actuation elements formed by elastic elements that act on the pick-up members for their sliding toward the axis of the pick-up body and radial pushers that act on the pick-up members for their sliding away from the axis of the pick-up body in contrast with the action of the elastic elements. |
| US08028545B2 |
Method and apparatus for manufacturing low OH overcladding
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a final optical fiber preform by overcladding, said method comprising the steps of providing a primary preform; positioning said primary preform within at least one tube, wherein the at least one tube partly covers the primary preform to create a zone to be overcladded, being an overclad zone, which overclad zone is located on the primary preform outside the at least one tube; injecting a gas into the annular space between the primary preform and the at least one tube under overpressure relative to the pressure outside the at least one tube; overcladding the primary preform in the overclad zone with an overcladding material using an overcladding device. The invention also relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method. The invention allows overcladding a primary preform at low cost while maximally limiting the incorporation of impurities into the silica overclad. |
| US08028542B2 |
System for making glass articles
Glass articles are made by continuously emitting a plurality of strands of molten glass spaced different distances from respective preform molds, cutting through each of the strands by moving together a respective pair of blades to form a respective gob, and transporting the gobs through the respective distances to the preform molds. The pairs of blades are operated, that is moved from an open to a closed position, such that they cut through the respective strands one after the other with the first formed gob traveling through the longest distance to the respective preform mold and the last formed gob traveling through the shortest distance to the respective preform mold. |
| US08028537B2 |
Heat sinking and flexible circuit board, for solid state light fixture utilizing an optical cavity
Disclosed exemplary solid state light fixtures use optical cavities to combine or integrate light from LEDs or the like. In such a fixture, the cavity is formed by a light transmissive structure having a volume, and a diffuse reflector that covers a contoured portion of the structure. A heat sink member supports a flexible circuit board so as to position the light emitters to couple light to the transmissive structure and provide effective heat dissipation. The circuit board has flexible tabs mounting the emitters. When installed in the fixture, the tabs bend and the emitters press against a sufficiently rigid periphery of the light transmissive structure. TIM may be compressed between the heat sink member and the opposite surface of each tab. Heat conductive surface pads and heat conductors through vias through the tabs conduct heat from the emitters to the heat sink member, e.g. through the TIM. |
| US08028535B2 |
System for efficient fluid depressurisation
The present invention relates to a system for depressurisation of high pressure pipeline fluids. The system may provide for net power generation without the pressurised fluid undergoing liquefaction or solidification or unacceptable temperature reduction as a result of a Joule-Thompson process. The system is particularly relevant for depressurising high pressure natural gas pipelines in an energy efficient manner whilst making possible net power generation. The system for depressurisation of a pressurised fluid in a pipeline comprises at least one depressuriser for expanding the fluid in the pipeline to a lower pressure; and a transcritical heat pump for circulating a supercritical fluid, wherein the supercritical fluid undergoes cooling so as to release heat for transmission to the pressurised fluid in the pipeline prior to at least one expansion of said pressurised fluid. |
| US08028534B2 |
Freeze-tolerant waterline valve for a refrigerator
An improved refrigerator is provided with a freeze tolerant valve for the water tank assembly in the refrigerator. The valve includes a body with an internal plastic spool which minimizes the volume of water within the valve, and which provides a space in the valve to accommodate freezing water in the valve. The valve will not crack or fail in the event of a temperature control problem in the refrigerator which results in frozen water within the valve. |
| US08028532B2 |
Systems and methods for freezing, storing and thawing biopharmaceutical materials
A system for use in freezing, storing and thawing biopharmaceutical materials includes a flexible sterile container means for holding biopharmaceutical material therein and a holder more rigid than said container means. The container means is received in a cavity of the holder and the holder extends along a perimeter of the container means. The holder is fixedly connected to the container means. The holder includes opposing sides defining an opening and the container means extends between the opposing sides of the holder defining the opening. The container means includes a substantially smooth exterior surface extending between the opposing sides. |
| US08028531B2 |
Mitigating heat in an integrated circuit
The present invention provides for a system and method for regulating and monitoring heat dissipation of an integrated circuit by employing a heat regulating device with a thermal structure net work assembly. Each thermal structure can act as a heat conducting pathway for inducing heat into and/or dissipating heat away from the integrated circuit, thus creating a more uniform temperature gradient across the semiconductor body. |
| US08028522B2 |
Cooling system for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a cooling system for a motor vehicle comprising a first heat exchanger (1), in particular, embodied in the form of a main cooler for cooling a first liquid coolant (3) of an internal combustion engine (2) by means of an air flow coming from the ambient air and a second heat exchanger (7, 13, 407, 415) for cooling gases introduceable into the internal combustion engine, in particular, exhaust gases and/or charge air, wherein the second heat exchanger (7, 13, 407, 415) is coolable by the an air flow coming from the ambient air and is spatially separated from the main cooler (1). |
| US08028515B2 |
Exhaust controlling device for direct cylinder fuel injected spark ignition engine
An engine exhaust controlling device is provided, including a controller for detecting whether or not a request is present for activating a catalyst when the engine is started, and whether or not a fuel pressure meets or exceeds a predetermined pressure. When a request is not present, the engine is operated in a homogeneous combustion mode in which fuel is injected during the intake stroke and ignition occurs before compression top dead center. When a request is present, an intake valve characteristic is adjusted to be larger than when the request is not present. If the fuel pressure is not greater than or equal to the predetermined fuel pressure, the engine is operated in the homogeneous combustion mode, otherwise, the engine is operated in a retarded combustion mode in which the ignition timing is retarded to ignite the fuel-air mixture after compression top dead center. |
| US08028505B1 |
Telescoping flail mower and method of operation
A foldable mower includes a telescoping flail conditioning system. The telescoping flail conditioning system includes a first tube having a first set of tines, a second tube having a second set of tines, and a first arrangement of corresponding slots extending through at least a portion of the first tube and configured to permit the second set of tines to extend substantially radially out of the first tube upon at least a portion of the second tube being positioned within the first tube. |
| US08028504B2 |
Packaging machine
Changing or feeding, respectively, of a working tool (11) into a workstation (110) of a packaging machine (1) takes place by varying a distance of a receiving unit having arranged the working tools (11), with respect to a support rack (15) by means of a lifting device (200). By means of a shifting means (300) the working tool (11) can be shifted from the support (10) into the workstation (110), or reverse. Therein, the support (10) can be formed such that it is movable out of the packaging machine (1). |
| US08028501B2 |
Custom packaging solution for arbitrary objects
A method of producing a packaged uses an electronic user interface to receive a first image of an object to be packaged, along with information relating to one or more properties of the object. A three dimensional size for the object is determined, and a package is automatically selected. Based on the object properties, a packing material type is automatically determined. Based upon the size and the selected package, a packing material amount is determined. |
| US08028499B2 |
Bale wrapper
A bale wrapper is provided that comprises a rotating arm holding a film dispenser. The arm rotates around an axis thereby wrapping the film from the film dispenser around the bale. Rotation of the arm is stopped when a sensing arrangement mounted ahead of the arm senses an obstacle. The arm is driven with a first speed sufficiently slow to prevent any risk of injury and the arm and the film dispenser from being damaged by hitting an obstacle detected by the sensing arrangement when an obstacle sensor observing a sensitive range in the environment of the bale wrapper detects an obstacle. The arm rotates at a second speed faster than the first speed when the obstacle sensor detects no obstacle. |
| US08028496B2 |
Glue application device for a labeling machine
A beverage bottling plant, a labeling machine for use in a beverage bottling plant, and a glue application device for use with a labeling machine in a beverage bottling plant. |
| US08028495B2 |
Fastening element for dry construction elements, and method for the production of such a fastening element
Fastening element for dry construction elements, and method for the production of such a fastening element. |
| US08028492B2 |
Upright support member for an insulating sheet of a wall having an internal cavity
A wall-forming system including a pair of spaced apart confronting sidewalls defining a wall cavity therebetween. Each sidewall is constructed from a plurality of insulating sheets and upright support members. Each sheet is disposed between a neighboring pair of support members. Each of the neighboring support members has an upright channel that receives an end wall portion of the sheet and thereby maintains the sheet upright. Each support member also includes a slot for receiving one end of a tie that extends between the first and second sidewalls through the wall cavity and connects the first sidewall to the second sidewall. The slot is defined between a pair of walls having a plurality of through-holes extending transversely therethrough and across the slot. The end of the tie disposed inside the slot has a through-hole aligned with one of the through-holes of the walls to receive a portion of a fastener therein. |
| US08028490B2 |
Rebar chair
A polymeric chair having a rebar cradle and legs of a T-shaped or U-shaped cross-section diverging downwardly from the cradle. The outer surface portions of the legs define segments of a cone. Inwardly extending web portions reinforce the legs. Feet at the distal ends of the legs are disposed to the inside of the outer surface portions. A flat sand plate for the chair has radially extending slots formed therethrough which are proportioned for snug engagement with side surfaces of the feet. The slots are elongate to accommodate different sized chairs having feet spaced at varying radial dimensions. The web portions taper to optimize their reinforcing function and conserve material. In one embodiment, a ring is formed integrally with the legs intermediate the table and the distal ends of the legs. The chair is of a unitary construction and may have an integrally formed strap for extension over the cradle to secure a rebar in place. |
| US08028488B2 |
Foldable truss
A foldable truss having a pair of side frames hinged together by a foldable arm allowing the truss to be collapsed to a smaller width while maintaining the truss length as a constant. |
| US08028480B2 |
Modular log building construction
This application describes a wall construction and method of making the same in generally a Piece-en-piece mode. A vertical mortise is provided in adjacent vertical timber members and vertical mortises are cut into the end faces of horizontal timber members expected to be placed between adjacent vertical member. When the horizontal timber members are in place the vertical mortises align and wooden or metal splines can be inserted into the mortises thus securing the horizontal members laterally while still allowing them to move vertically to account for, for example, shrinkage in the wood. By substituting a mortise for a tenon, this invention reduces manufacturing costs and reduces assembly time and costs, as each horizontal timber can be set directly into place without lifting it to the top of the upright timber members. |
| US08028470B2 |
Robotic watering unit
The different illustrative embodiments provide a method and system for watering plants. A map of an area is received and a determination is made using a processing unit as to whether the area needs water. If the area needs water, current constraints are identified and a determination is made using the processing system as to whether the current constraints allow for watering. If the current constraints allow for watering, a watering solution application plan is generated using the processing system, and the watering solution application plan is executed using a mobile utility vehicle. |
| US08028469B2 |
Automated high-throughput seed sampler and methods of sampling, testing and bulking seeds
In various embodiments, the present disclosure provides an automated seed sampling and sorting system. The system includes an imaging station for collecting image data of a set of seeds and a seed orientation station for independently positioning each seed in the set in a desired orientation based on the collected image data. The system further includes a seed sample and sort station for extracting a sample from each seed in the set, sorting each sample to a sample tray and sorting each sampled seed to a seed tray. |
| US08028467B2 |
Live insect trap
Provided is an apparatus for capturing live insects that includes an upper section having side walls, a top cover, and plural openings in the side walls that are large enough to permit insects to enter. This upper portion houses a light source and is well-suited to attracting and trapping insects in the first instance. An enclosed lower section is well-suited to trapping the insects on a more permanent basis. Between the upper section and the enclosed lower section is a funnel, having a wide opening adjacent to the upper section and tapering to a narrow opening within the lower section. |
| US08028463B2 |
Fishing pole holder
A fishing pole holder that can be used in specific situations where a folding chair or chair with a intersecting rods or support structure is available, most common situation of a fisherman is that the fisherman is seated in a chair with his tackle box with a fishing pole holder that is staked into the ground to hold the pole and allow the fisherman to do other tasks, such as drinking while the pole remains fixed in a holder of some sort and type. There have been various types of fishing pole holders, This invention is created to simplify the number of things that is normally carried in order to fish, when a folding chair or chair with intersecting rods or support structure is available. |
| US08028461B2 |
Switch for the control of weapon mounted electronic assemblies, a weapon having a control switch and a method for using weapon
A switch assembly 16 which is selectively deployed upon a weapon and which normally causes electrical power to be communicated to a visible energy emission assembly 14 from a source of electrical power 90 and which requires positive actions to interrupt such communication. |
| US08028459B2 |
Integrated rail system and method for making and using same
Embodiments of the application can include an integrated rail system construction for a firearm with transverse ribs or tabs (e.g., picatinny rail) to include an undercut or slot at a front and/or rear face to cooperate with mounting structure for a detachable accessory. Embodiments of a rail structure can include a channel to pass wires used to power accessories mounted to the rail. Embodiments of the application can include methods for manufacturing an integral rail system. |
| US08028458B2 |
Housing for a rifle
A housing for a rifle, comprising a first anchoring for a barrel, a second anchoring for a butt, a guide for a breech that can be locked with the barrel, and a seat for a trigger that interacts with the breech. The housing is subdivided into a lower part and a separate upper part which can be firmly connected thereto. The lower part forms the anchorings for the barrel and the butt and the seat for the trigger and the upper part forms the guide for the breech. |
| US08028448B2 |
Portable sign for real estate and small businesses
A portable sign includes a light weight post and an arm that is pivotally attached by a hinge to an upper portion of the post and can be locked orthogonal to the post. The hinge enables the sign to be collapsed, such that the arm folds against the post, to facilitate storage and transport. In one embodiment, the post includes a shaft configured to be driven into the ground using a rotary drive tool. The shaft includes a head configured to engage the tool, which provides the motive force required to drive the lower portion of the post into the ground. Some exemplary embodiments employ a base configured to surround the lower portion of the post. The base can serve several functions, including providing support for the post, providing a container for flowers, and providing space for additional signage. |
| US08028440B2 |
Footwear structure with textile upper member
Articles of footwear include a textile upper member with an exterior constructed from knitted textile material, the exterior including a region with stability ribs and a second unribbed region. The region(s) having stability ribs may be located, for example: along a lateral midfoot side of the upper member; along a forefoot portion of the upper member; and/or along a medial midfoot side of the upper member. Other articles of footwear include an upper member having exterior and interior textile elements joined together in a stitchless manner at the foot-receiving opening of the upper member. The exterior surface of this upper member also may include one or more regions with stability structures. The stitchless textile engagement techniques can provide a smooth, non-bulky, and breathable joint that does not require thick layers of textile material in contact with or adjacent the wearer's foot. |
| US08028436B2 |
Hook for detection of chain sling failure
An apparatus for evaluating the condition of a lift sling. The apparatus includes a body with an upper section and a lower section. The lower section includes a cradle member with a load bearing surface that engages an inner surface of a connecting link at one end of a sling. The apparatus includes an engagement section that receives and positions the end of a measuring device so that it is in tangential alignment with the load bearing surface of the cradle member. In use, one end of a sling is positioned on the load bearing surface of the cradle member and one end of a measuring device is positioned on the engagement section of the apparatus. The apparatus is then raised so that the sling and the measuring device are hanging freely. The reach of the sling is then measuring using the measuring device. |
| US08028429B2 |
Apparatus for hanging objects
An apparatus for hanging an object from a wall comprises a generally triangular-shaped frame having a horizontal portion, a vertical portion and cross-member between the vertical and horizontal portions. The vertical portion is configured for attachment to a wall stud. The horizontal portion defines an elongate slot that extends a substantial length of the horizontal portion. A hook member is slideably coupled to the slot and is configured to support a weight of an object suspended therefrom. |
| US08028425B1 |
Centerless saw device
The present invention generally pertains to a saw device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a handheld centerless saw. The saw comprises a frame and a pair of driving rollers mounted to the frame for rotation. The saw also comprises an annular blade mounted between the drive rollers and functionally engaged thereby, where the blade defines frontward and backward hemispheres. At least two guide wheels are mounted to the frame, or to a cover mounted to the frame, the guide wheels being positioned in the backward hemisphere of the blade. The guide wheels are operatively engaging the inner circular edge of the blade. A drive assembly mounted to the frame is operable for urging the countersense rotation of drive rollers, thereby causing rotation of the blade. |
| US08028423B2 |
Reciprocating-type cutting blade device
A reciprocating-type cutting blade device (1) has first and second driving bodies (15, 16) driven reciprocatingly in opposite directions. First and second cutting blade bodies (13, 14) are driven reciprocatingly by detachably engaging the first and second driving bodies (15, 16). Two detachable guide plates (11, 12) slidably hold these driving and cutting blade bodies. A first boundary (Q1) is formed between engaging portions (31, 33) of the first cutting blade body (13) and the first driving body (15), and a second boundary (Q2) is formed between engaging portions (32, 34) of the second cutting blade body (14) and the second driving body (16). The boundaries intersect only at points in a planar view, and the engaging portions (31-34) of the cutting blade bodies (13, 14) and the driving bodies (15, 16) maintain this state of intersection over a whole stroke of reciprocating motion. |
| US08028422B2 |
Hair trimmer device with comb unit
To allow trimming body hair by pulling as well as pushing with the same hair trimmer device (1), its comb unit (6) is positioned over the trimming head (16) in at least two different positions (8, 9), one (8) pulling and one pushing position (9). In particular, in the different comb positions (8, 9), the tips (20) of the comb unit's fins (13) point in the direction of the respective movement. Preferably, the comb unit (6) is removably attached. In a preferred embodiment, the trimming head (16) includes shaving means (18) besides trimming means (19). |
| US08028419B2 |
Folding knife or tool
In one embodiment, a folding knife comprises a handle portion and first and second nesting blades pivotally coupled to the handle portion for pivoting movement between respective open and closed positions. The second blade in one embodiment is formed with a recess or notch which is sized and shaped to receive the first blade, allowing both blades to pivot within a common plane. The knife can also include a locking mechanism that is operable to retain the blades against pivoting movement when the blades are in their respective open positions. In particular configurations, the locking mechanism comprises a resilient locking arm configured to lock both blades in their open positions or first blade alone in its respective locking position. In certain embodiments, a folding tool comprises plural nesting tool elements other than knife blades. |
| US08028418B2 |
Hair cutting device
In a hair cutting device, a head portion is connected such that the head portion can laterally tilt and vertically move. The head portion is stably supported in a front-rear direction, connected to an upper portion of a main body grip portion, and resiliently biased upward. An upper end of the main body grip portion is formed with an opened space into which a lower portion of the head portion is inserted. Front and back surfaces of the head portion have a pair of left and right shaft portions which are connected to an inner surface of the opened space such that the shaft portions can turn and vertically move and come into slide contact with the inner surface of the opened space. A contact portion which is provided lower than the pair of shaft portions comes into slide contact with the inner surface of the opened space. |
| US08028417B1 |
Applicator head
The present invention is directed toward a tool holder for a flexible tube that contains a composition used in connection with the tool. The tool holder has a frame adapted to be secured the sealed end of the flexible tube and a tool portion having a tool such as a razor blade, a brush, a cosmetic scraper blade, a planar scraper blade, a massager head, sandpaper, polishing, and the like. |
| US08028416B2 |
Hybrid composite journal bearing and manufacturing method thereof
The object of this invention is to provide a hybrid composite journal bearing which is constructed so that a composite liner is positioned on an inner surface of a metal housing having a circular cross-section, thus preventing a journal from being broken or damaged or seized to the bearing, due to friction between the metal or composite journal and the journal bearing. The hybrid composite journal bearing (210) includes a metal housing (211) which is secured on an outer surface thereof to a bearing system and has a circular cross-section. A composite liner (212) is laminated to an inner surface of the metal housing (211) with a uniform thickness so as to minimize friction between the journal bearing and a journal. |
| US08028415B2 |
Method of installing a pinion seal to a carrier/bearing cage and an axle
A unitized pinion seal assembly has a seal portion and a sleeve portion that are assembled in an interference fit relationship. The unitized pinion seal assembly is assembled to a carrier bearing cage and an axle companion flange with proper spacing between non-sealing components, and without a spacer mounted between the two portions. |
| US08028408B2 |
Method of manufacturing a wiring module
A wiring module that can be installed in an electrical junction box and can receive a removable electrical outlet module, a removable electrical switch module, or other types of electrical functional modules. The wiring module and the removable electrical outlet and switch modules may include connectors having a mechanical portion and an electrical portion. The electrical connector portions may be configured so as not to be exposed to user contact when the mechanical connector portions are at least partially engaged. |
| US08028406B2 |
Methods of fabricating coplanar waveguide structures
Methods for fabricating a coplanar waveguide structure. The method may include forming first and second ground conductors and a signal conductor in a coplanar arrangement between the first and second ground conductors, forming a first coplanar array of substantially parallel shield conductors above the signal conductor and the first and second ground conductors, and forming a second coplanar array of substantially parallel shield conductors below the signal conductor and the first and second ground conductors. The method further includes forming a first plurality of conductive bridges located laterally between the signal conductor and the first ground conductor, and forming a second plurality of conductive bridges located laterally between the signal conductor and the second ground conductor. Each of the first plurality of conductive bridges connects one of the shield conductors in the first array with one of the shield conductors in the second array. Each of the second plurality of conductive bridges connects one of the shield conductors in the first array with one of the shield conductors in the second array. |
| US08028401B2 |
Method of fabricating a conducting crossover structure for a power inductor
A method of fabricating a conducting crossover structure for a power inductor comprises stamping a first lead frame to define a first terminal and a second terminal; stamping a second lead frame to define a first terminal and a second terminal; and locating an insulating material between and in contact with the first and second lead frames to form a laminate. |
| US08028400B2 |
Method for manufacturing a magnetic write head
A method for forming a tapered, electroplated structure. The method involves forming a first mask structure having an opening. A shrink material is deposited into the opening, such that the thickness of the shrink material is less than the thickness of the first mask structure. The first mask structure and the shrink material are then heated causing the sides of the opening in the mask structure to bulge inward. The shrink material is then removed, and a first electrically conductive material can then be electroplated into the opening to a thickness that is much less than the thickness of the mask. The bulbous shaped of the deformed photoresist mask forms a taper on the first electrically conductive material. The first mask can then be removed and a second electrically conductive material can be electroplated over the first electrically conductive material. |
| US08028399B2 |
Magnetic write pole fabrication
Write elements and methods of fabricating magnetic write poles are described. For one method, a vertical mask structure is formed on a magnetic layer in locations of a pole tip and a yoke of a write pole. The vertical mask structure may be formed by coating vertical surfaces of resists with an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process or a similar process. A removal process is then performed around the vertical mask structure to define the pole tip and part of the yoke of the write pole, and the vertical mask structure is removed. A lower portion of the pole tip is them masked while the upper portion of the pole tip and the part of the yoke is exposed. The upper portion of the pole tip and the part of the yoke are then expanded with magnetic material, such as with a plating process. |
| US08028395B2 |
Method for manufacturing high flow insufflation needle stylet
A method for forming a high flow insufflation needle stylet having distal, intermediate and proximal sections includes providing a flat sheet of metal and forming pilot holes in the sheet proximate opposed edges of the sheet. A profile of a flat pattern of the stylet is formed. The flat pattern has a proximal end, a distal end and a pair of substantially longitudinal edges. At least one support tab is positioned between the flat pattern and the sheet. The intermediate and the proximal sections of the stylet are progressively formed into a partial cylindrical shape with the proximal end being open and the longitudinal edges in the intermediate and proximal sections being positioned between about 90° and 180° apart. The distal section is progressively formed into a substantially cylindrical shape having a closed distal end. The stylet is trimmed from the sheet by cutting the at least one support tab. |
| US08028392B2 |
Method of joining and disjoining fluid passages
A quick to connect and quick to disconnect fluid coupling has a clip, a male portion having an annular groove adapted to receive the clip, a female portion, and a sealing element. The female portion has a dual function frustoconical portion adapted to compress the sealing element during joinder of the male portion with the female portion as well as to compress the clip into the annular groove in preparation of separating the male portion from the female portion. Further, a sleeve with a shoulder is slideably placed about the male portion which has a debris barrier and adapted to capture the clip compressed within the annular groove sleeve by wedging the shoulder apart from said debris barrier. |
| US08028390B2 |
Spring actuated clamping mechanism
A spring actuated clamping mechanism has a backer plate with an upper surface and a lower surface. A set of apertures is formed along the periphery of the backer plate. The upper surface of the backer plate has at least one backer plate recess, and preferably four recesses, formed therein. A threaded aperture is also formed in the backer plate. A compression plate is also provided. A second set of apertures is formed along the periphery of the compression plate. The lower surface of the compression plate has at least one compression plate recess, and at least one compression plate aperture. At least one compression spring is disposed between the backer plate and the compression plate. A screw tension release mechanism is screwed into the backer plate threaded aperture and inserted through the compression plate aperture. When the release mechanism is loosened, backer plate is forced downwardly, applying a uniform force to all electrical contacts on the printed circuit board or card to which the clamping mechanism is attached. |
| US08028388B2 |
System for cutting a suture to create tissue retainers of a desired shape and size
A system for manufacturing self-retaining suture is disclosed. The system includes a cutting bed for creating and supporting a suture during cutting of tissue-grasping elements at different angular positions. A cutting device is moved through the suture thread along a path which can include longitudinal, transverse, oscillating and depth components to create a desired tissue-grasping element on the surface of the suture. The path of the cutting device and the rotation of the suture relative to the cutting device are controlled so that a plurality of angularly-displaced tissue-grasping elements can be created on the suture. |
| US08028387B2 |
System for supporting and cutting suture thread to create tissue retainers thereon
A system for manufacturing self-retaining suture includes means for supporting the suture during cutting of retainers which protrude from the suture at multiple angles. The system includes an anvil having a channel configured to support a suture during cutting of a retainer at a first angular position while providing for non-interference between the anvil and retainers previously cut on the suture at one or more angular positions different than the first angular position. In embodiments the channel is provided with notches which receive previously-formed retainers during creation of subsequent retainers. The system thereby provides for rotating the suture and supporting the suture with the anvil without interference with previously-formed retainers. |
| US08028385B2 |
Patterned tampon and method of making
A tampon including a compressed pledget of absorbent material. The tampon has a body portion and a longitudinal axis, wherein the tampon includes at least one patterned impression with one or more design elements oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one design element is formed by contact with at least one corresponding pattern including at least one lead in portion. A method and apparatus for making the tampon are also disclosed. |
| US08028384B2 |
Multi piece burial vault base and method of making the same
A burial vault base assembly. The assembly includes a front piece, back piece, and first and second side pieces that are connected to one another at a plurality of joints using C-shaped connectors. These pieces form an exterior shell around an interior piece wherein concrete is poured therebetween to form a burial vault base wherein the C-shaped connectors prevent the concrete from breaking at the joints and protruding at the joints. |
| US08028382B2 |
Child-safe fastening device
A child safe fastening device including a clip, one or more than one padded layer covering one or more surfaces of the clip and one or more than one cover layer secured to the padded layer. The clip, the padded layer, and the cover layer form a plush device. |
| US08028381B2 |
Load bearing textile clamp
A removable load bearing textile clamp including a locking clamp portion configured to accept an internally positioned rod such that a textile sheet can be led around the rod and positioned inside the clamp and secured by closing the clamp and engaging the locking mechanism. |
| US08028379B2 |
Closure clip and process for the production thereof
Closure clips and a process for the production of closure clips of strip-form or wire-form material for the closure of tubular or bag-like packagings. In the process, a substantially wave-form profile with successive first and second apex points is stamped along the strip-form or wire-form material, the first apex point forming a clip bottom, flanks respectively adjoining the first apex point on each side thereof form clip limbs that are bent over in a U-shape and the second apex point forms limb ends that are bent over outwardly with respect to the U-shape at which two adjacent closure clips are separably connected. The strip-form or wire-form closure clip material is pierced inwardly with respect to the U-shape so that a raised material portion is formed at the limb inside. |
| US08028372B2 |
Mobile blower/vacuum device
A blower/vacuum device includes a base supported on wheels. The device (10) has a reservoir (bag) that receives material collected by the device. Mounted on the base is a motor and impeller assembly that draws air inward and delivers the air (with collected material) to the bag. The assembly can also be operated to provide a forward delivery directed air stream. |
| US08028370B2 |
Cleaning machine for cleaning a surface
A cleaning machine for cleaning a surface is provided. The cleaning machine includes a base assembly that moves along the surface and a liquid distribution system associated with the base assembly for distributing the cleaning solution to the cleaning surface. A suction nozzle assembly is mounted to the base assembly and includes a front nozzle portion and a rear nozzle portion. The front nozzle portion defines a fluid flow path having an inlet opening and an outlet opening and the rear nozzle portion defines a fluid flow path having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. A suction source is in fluid communication with the suction nozzle for applying suction to draw the cleaning solution and dirt from the surface and through the suction nozzle assembly. The fluid flow path of the front nozzle portion is closed in response to the base assembly moving in one of the forward direction and rear direction. The fluid flow path of the rear nozzle portion is closed in response to the base assembly moving in other one of the forward and rear direction. |
| US08028367B2 |
Vehicle wiper apparatus
A vehicle wiper apparatus for wiping a windshield glass with a wiper blade includes drive means for reciprocating the wiper blade in an arcuate wiping area, and a first washer fluid spray means, provided on the drive means, for spraying a washer fluid. The first washer fluid spray means sprays the washer fluid onto a area in an upward wiping direction of the wiper blade when the wiper blade is located near its stop position, and sprays the washer fluid onto a area in a downward wiping direction of the wiper blade when the wiper blade is located near its inversion position. |
| US08028360B2 |
Baffle box pillow
The pillow includes first and second fabric layers and third and fourth fabric layers, all of which are identical and secured together around the peripheries thereof. Positioned between the first and second fabric layers is a baffle structure which includes first and second lateral baffles extending across the width of the pillow and positioned at approximately one-third and two-thirds of the longitudinal distance (dimension) of the pillow. The baffle structure includes two central baffles, two first end baffles and two second end baffles, arranged to define baffle boxes of approximately equal size. The two central baffles extend longitudinally from one lateral baffle, leaving a space between the free ends thereof and the other lateral baffle to permit filling of the pillow. The first end baffles extend from the one lateral baffle a selected distance, leaving a space between the first end baffles and one lateral edge of the pillow to permit filling of the pillow. The second end baffles extend from the opposing lateral edge of the pillow toward the other lateral baffle, leaving a space between the second end baffles and the other lateral baffle to permit filling of the pillow. |
| US08028359B2 |
Automated multi-functional support apparatus
A support apparatus (10) for use in supporting a person, particularly a bariatric patient. The apparatus (10) is selectively convertible between a seat configuration for supporting the person in a substantially seated position and a table configuration for supporting the person in a substantially prostrate position. The apparatus (10) is both vertically and angularly adjustable in either configuration. The apparatus (10) includes enhanced lateral support provided by telescoping support cylinders (74,76), and substantially automatically retracting foot support portions (50). |
| US08028357B2 |
Method and associated apparatus for assembling and testing a plumbing system
A system is provided for enhancing the interconnectability of a bathtub to a plumbing system. More specifically, provided is a flexible conduit and an overflow assembly that allows for a portion of the overflow assembly to be easily located with the wall of a bathtub. The flexible conduit provided allows for adjustability of the conduit to the openings of the bathtub. In addition, provided are methods and apparatus that facilitate testing of a plumbing assembly. Finally, an apparatus and methods are provided that protect portions of the finished bathtub assembly to decrease in the need for replacing said hardware. It is envisioned that aspects and inventions disclosed herein can be used in conjunction to facilitate the interconnection and protection of hardware associated with a bathtub. |
| US08028354B2 |
Spa apparatus
A spa apparatus includes a chair and a basin supported by a base. The basin is movable in an up/down direction relative to a portion of the base. The chair may include actuators to tilt forward to permit easy entry and exit from the chain. The chair may also move in a fore/aft direction relative to the basin. A pair of foot rests may be located within the basin. A manicure assembly may be located within a cavity in the arm of the chair. The basin may have a narrowed front portion to allow a technician to easily fact the customer. A base may include two support frames that pivot relative to one another proximate an end of the base distal the basin. |
| US08028352B1 |
Pool covering apparatus
A pool covering apparatus includes a tube that forms a continuous loop. The tube is positionable around a perimeter edge of the pool. A flexible panel is attached to the tube and covers an area bounded by the tube. The panel covers the pool when the tube is positioned around the pool. The panel has an area dimension greater than an area dimension bounded by the tube. A lift assembly is attached to the tube and the panel. The lift assembly lifts the cover above a plane of the tube. |
| US08028348B2 |
Ambidextrous glove
An ambidextrous glove that includes a thumb region, an index finger region, a middle finger region, a ring finger region and little finger region all aligned along a common axis. The index finger region is rotated through ninety degrees relative to the orientations of all of the middle, ring and little finger regions to provide for easier insertion of a hand into the glove. A textured pattern is provided on the surfaces of the glove used to grip objects. The pattern is one of a raised fan shape and raised diamond shape. |
| US08028345B2 |
Tennis garment with ball sleeves
A tennis garment of fabric material and sewn construction has a front panel sewn to a rear panel with a waistband encircling the garment. A ball securing sleeve is aligned with, and joined to, the rear waistband portion at left, central, and right mutual locations, thereby establishing two ball securing sleeves into which a tennis ball may be inserted from above or below the sleeve. Once inserted, the ball is held in place by opposing upper and lower elastic bands within upper and lower hems of the sleeves. When desired, the ball may be withdrawn from the sleeves by upward or downward movement relative to the sleeves. |