最新美国发明专利第2011-10-04期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08029965B2	Developing roller and image forming method employing the same An objective is to provide a developing roller possessing a surface layer capable of suppressing the residual potential during repetitive use with no damage of interlayer adhesiveness, preventing toner leakage and contaminations caused by adhesion matter on the surface, and preventing developing unevenness because of even toner electrification; and also to provide an image forming method employing the developing roller. Also disclose is a developing roller possessing a conductive shaft, and a resin layer provided around an outer circumferential surface of the conductive shaft, wherein the resin layer possesses a surface layer containing a silicone copolymer resin as a principal component and a layer containing a polyamide resin as a principal component, that is provided immediately below the surface layer.
US08029960B2	Toner for developing electrostatic latent image, and image forming apparatus and process cartridge using the toner A toner, including a parent particulate material including a colorant and a binder resin, and an external additive including particles having an average primary particle diameter from 80 to less than 150 nm in an amount of from 0.03 to 2% by number, particles having an average primary particle diameter from 5 nm to less than 15 nm in an amount of from 50 to 95% by number, and particles having an average primary particle diameter from 15 to less than 40 nm in an amount of from 5 to 40% by number, and the particles having an average primary particle diameter from 80 to less than 150 nm include particles having an average primary particle diameter not less than 200 nm in an amount of from 10 to 30% by number, and have a weight reduction rate not greater than 3.00% when heated from 30 to 250° C.
US08029957B2	Photoreceptor with overcoat layer An electrophotographic imaging member includes a substrate, a charge generating layer, a charge transport layer, and an overcoating layer, the overcoating layer being a cured film formed from a composition including at least a hydroxyl group-containing polymer or oligomer, a benzoguanamine compound containing at least one —CH2OR group, wherein each such R is independently an H atom or an alkyl group having from 1 to about 20 carbon atoms, and a charge transport compound.
US08029954B2	Exposure method and memory medium storing computer program A method comprises determining an exposure condition by executing a process including computing an image formed on an image plane under the current exposure condition while changing the exposure condition, and evaluating a line width of the computed image, and exposing the substrate under the determined exposure condition, wherein the determining includes, computing a simplified evaluation value of the computed image, changing the exposure condition and executing the process in the changed exposure condition, after evaluating the computed image if the simplified evaluation value satisfies an allowable value, and changing the exposure condition and executing the process in the changed exposure condition without evaluating the computed image if the simplified evaluation value does not satisfy the allowable value.
US08029950B2	Reflective mask blank for EUV lithography A reflective mask blank for EUV lithography is provided which has an absorber layer wherein stress and crystal structure can be easily controlled.A reflective mask blank for EUV lithography, which comprises a substrate, and at least a reflective layer for reflecting EUV light and an absorber layer for absorbing EUV light formed in this order on the substrate, wherein the absorber layer contains tantalum (Ta), nitrogen (N) and hydrogen (H); and in the absorber layer, the total content of Ta and N is from 50 to 99.9 at %, and the content of H is from 0.1 to 50 at %.
US08029949B2	Photomask for forming contact hole in semiconductor device Disclosed is a photomask for forming a contact hole arranged on a wafer in a zigzag form along a transverse direction, including: a light transmitting substrate; a main pattern disposed on the light transmitting substrate with a zigzag form as an upper main pattern disposed in a relatively upper portion and a lower main pattern disposed in a relatively lower portion are arranged alternately along a transverse direction; a first lower auxiliary pattern extending in a vertical direction and disposed adjacently to a lower portion of the upper main pattern; a first upper auxiliary pattern extending in a vertical direction and disposed adjacently to an upper portion of the lower main pattern; a second lower auxiliary pattern extending in the transverse direction and connecting the first lower auxiliary patterns with each other; and a second upper auxiliary pattern extending in the transverse direction and connecting the first upper auxiliary patterns with each other.
US08029947B2	Systems and methods for implementing and manufacturing reticles for use in photolithography tools Methods, systems, and tool sets involving reticles and photolithography processing. Several embodiments of the invention are directed toward obtaining qualitative data from within the pattern area of a reticle that is indicative of the physical characteristics of the pattern area. Additional embodiments of the invention are directed toward obtaining qualitative data indicative of the physical characteristics of the reticle remotely from a photolithography tool. These two aspects of the invention can be combined in further embodiments in which qualitative data is obtained from within the pattern area of a reticle in a tool that is located remotely from the photolithography tool. As a result, several embodiments of methods and systems in accordance with the invention provide data taken from within the pattern area to more accurately reflect the contour of the pattern area of the reticle without using the photolithography tool to obtain such measurements. This is expected to provide more accurate data for correcting the photolithography tool to compensate for variances in the pattern area, and it is expected to increase throughput because the photolithography tool is not taken away from processing production wafers to measure the reticle.
US08029945B2	Method of preparing metal catalyst and electrode including the same A method of preparing a metal catalyst including a conductive catalyst material and a coating layer formed of a water repellent material on the surface of the conductive catalyst material includes: obtaining a water repellent material solution by mixing a water repellent material and a first solvent; obtaining a conductive catalyst solution by mixing a conductive catalyst material and a first solvent; mixing the water repellent material solution and the conductive catalyst solution; casting the result onto a supporter, drying the cast result and then separating a metal catalyst in a solid state from the supporter; and pulverizing and sieving the product. Also provided is a method of preparing an electrode including the metal catalyst.
US08029944B2	Use of silicon particles as catalyst, electrochemical device comprising the particles and method thereof The invention provides the use of silicon particles as redox catalyst, an electrochemical device and method thereof. As electrocatalyst, the silicon particles catalyze a redox reaction such as oxidization of the redox reactant such as renewable fuels e.g. methanol, ethanol and glucose. The device such as a fuel cell comprises a redox reactant and a catalytic composition comprising silicon nanoparticles. The silicon particles catalyze the redox reaction on an electrode such as anode in the device. In preferred embodiments, the electrocatalysis is dramatically improved under low illuminance such as in darkness. The invention can be widely used in applications related to for example a fuel cell, a sensor, an electrochemical reactor, and a memory.
US08029943B2	Method to make conductive hydrophilic fuel cell elements A flow field plate for a fuel cell that has one or more outer layers that makes the plate more conductive and hydrophilic. In one embodiment, the coating is co-deposited as combination of a conductive material and a metal oxide coating. A suitable conductive material is gold and suitable metal oxides include SiO2, HfO2, ZrO2, Al2O3, SnO2, Ta2O5, Nb2O5, MoO2, IrO2, RuO2 and mixtures thereof. The conductive material and metal oxide can also be deposited as two separate layers, where the metal oxide is the outer layer. According to another embodiment, a metal layer is deposited on the plate with nanopores that provide the hydrophilicity. Also, doping ions can be added to the metal oxide to provide low fluoride solubility of the coating to control the rate that hydrofluoric acid etches away the oxide layer.
US08029940B2	MEA for fuel cell, method for preparing the same and fuel cell using the MEA Provided is an MEA for fuel cell containing hygroscopic inorganic material such as TEOS (tetraethylorthosilicate), zirconium propoxide or titanium t-butoxide.
US08029935B2	Nonaqueous electrolyte and lithium secondary battery employing the same A nonaqueous electrolyte which contains a nonaqueous organic solvent and a lithium salt dissolved therein is provided. Also provided is a lithium secondary battery employing the nonaqueous electrolyte.
US08029934B2	Lithium secondary battery The present invention provides a battery that experiences a small degree of temporal change from the initial battery properties over the long term storage period of the battery. Specifically, the present invention provides a lithium secondary battery, in which a positive electrode capable of storing and releasing lithium and a negative electrode capable of storing and releasing lithium are formed via an electrolyte, wherein: the electrolyte comprises a cyclic solvent and a chain-type solvent and contains a compound having a boron-oxygen bond (B—O) and a carbon-carbon double bond (C═C).
US08029932B2	Anode and battery An anode capable of improving cycle characteristics and a battery using it are provided. An anode active material layer containing Si is provided on an anode current collector. The anode current collector is roughened by providing a projection on a base material with a ten point height of roughness profile Rz1 of 2.0 μm or less. A value of a difference, Rz2−Rz1 obtained by subtracting the ten point height of roughness profile Rz1 of the base material from a ten point height of roughness profile Rz2 of the anode current collector is from 0.2 μm to 5.1 μm. Thereby, even when the anode active material is expanded and shrunk due to charge and discharge, breakage of the anode current collector, fall off of the anode active material layer and the like can be prevented.
US08029931B2	Anode active material, method of preparing the same, and anode and lithium battery containing the material An anode active material comprises graphite core particles, and a first coating layer and a second coating layer formed on the surface of the graphite core particles. The first coating layer comprises silicon microparticles and the second coating layer comprises carbon fiber.
US08029914B2	High performance coated material with improved metal dusting corrosion resistance High performance coated metal compositions resistant to metal dusting corrosion and methods of providing such compositions are provided by the present invention. The coated metal compositions are represented by the structure (PQR), wherein P is an oxide layer at the surface of (PQR), Q is a coating metal layer interposed between P and R, and R is a base metal. P includes alumina, chromia, silica, mullite or mixtures thereof. Q includes Ni and Al, and at least one element selected from the group consisting of Cr, Si, Mn, Fe, Co, B, C, N, P, Ga, Ge, As, In, Sn, Sb, Pb, Sc, La, Y, Ce, Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Mo, W, Ru, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au and mixtures thereof. R is selected from the group consisting of carbon steels, low chromium steels, ferritic stainless steels, austenetic stainless steels, duplex stainless steels, Inconel alloys, Incoloy alloys, Fe—Ni based alloys, Ni-based alloys and Co-based alloys. Advantages exhibited by the disclosed coated metal compositions include improved metal dusting corrosion resistance at high temperatures in carbon-supersaturated environments having relatively low oxygen partial pressures. The coated metal compositions are suitable for use in syngas generation process equipment.
US08029913B2	Waveform panel A panel is disclosed formed of sheet material, the panel having opposite edges and being profiled to include a plurality of formations spaced along the length of the panel and extending between the edges, each formation including a substantially convex section and a substantially concave section which meet at a peak, and wherein each formation meets an adjoining formation at a trough.
US08029906B2	Silane compositions and methods for bonding rubber to metals Compositions and methods for treating metal substrates and/or bonding metal substrates to polymeric materials, such as rubber, are provided. The compositions include at least one substantially hydrolyzed amino silane and at least one substantially hydrolyzed sulfur-containing silane Optionally, the compositions include a nano-size particulate material. The compositions provide coatings on metal substrates for protecting the metal from corrosion and for adhering rubber-like polymeric compositions to the metal with polymer-to-metal vulcanization conditions less dependent on the coating thickness, and with use of less coating materials.
US08029900B2	Thermal interface material and method for manufacturing same One embodiment of a thermal interface material includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes each having a first end and an opposite second end, a heat current collector covering one of the first ends and the second ends of the carbon nanotubes, and a macromolecular material filled in spaces between the carbon nanotubes and heat current collector. A method for manufacturing a thermal interface material is also provided.
US08029898B2	Inorganic compound particle Inorganic compound particles constituted of a shell, a porous matter or a cavity enclosed therein, and the porous matter or the cavity being kept unchanged in a subsequently formed transparent coating film.
US08029885B2	Multi-layer film and medicine container using the same Disclosed is a multi-layer film comprising: a surface layer having a thickness of 10 to 50 ∫Êm made of an ethylene-∫-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.935 to 0.950 g/cm3, a flexible layer having a thickness of 100 to 200 ∫Êm made of an ethylene-∫-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.860 to 0.930 g/cm3, a barrier layer having a thickness of 10 to 80 ∫Êm made of a mixed resin containing 60 to 95% by weight of a cyclic olefin polymer and 5 to 40% by weight of an ethylene-∫-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.900 to 0.965 g/cm3, and a seal layer having a thickness of 5 to 80 ∫Êm made of an ethylene-∫-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.910 to 0.950 g/cm3. This multi-layer film is suited for use as a material for production of a medicine container 10 because it suppresses adsorption of a medicine by the barrier layer and is also superior in strength and flexibility.
US08029884B2	Antistatic white polyester film Provided is an antistatic white polyester film for a surface illuminant reflector, which has practically adequate reflective performance in a visible light region, can form a film with stability even if inorganic fine particles are added in a high concentration, prevents dirt and dust from adhering to the surface of the film due to having an antistatic coat, can control the gloss levels of the front and back sides of the film, and thereby can control a diffusing property of light, and can be suitably used as a base material for a reflector used for a liquid crystal display or an internally illuminated electric ornament signboard. An antistatic white polyester film for a surface illuminant reflector, having a base material layer formed by using a polyester resin and an antistatic applied layer having the surface resistivity of 3×1012□/□ or less at a temperature of 23° C. and at a relative humidity of 50%, wherein an average reflectivity at a wavelength of 400 to 700 nm is 90% or more on one surface of the polyester film and a difference in a gloss level (60°) between one surface and the other surface of the polyester film is 5 to 80.
US08029880B2	Water resistant wide flooring boards A water resistant floor board comprises a top layer, a tongue connector, a groove connector, a body, and a bottom layer. The body is made from a man-made material and placed between the tongue connector and the groove connector, and the top layer is placed above the body, the tongue connector, and the groove connector. The bottom layer is a moisture resistant aluminum foil covering the body, the tongue connector, and the groove connector. The tongue and groove connectors are made from moisture resistant solid wood, and the body is made from man-made material. The top layer has a moisture resistant coating.
US08029876B2	Heat-conductive resin composition and plastic article including the same A thermal-conductive resin composition and a plastic article are provided. The thermal-conductive resin composition comprises about 30 to about 60% by weight of a thermoplastic resin and about 40 to about 70% by weight of a thermal-conductive filler comprising about 10% by weight or more of a thermal-conductive filler with a height-to-length ratio (length/height) of about 7,000 to about 40,000 and about 10% by weight or more of a thermal-conductive filler with a height-to-length ratio of about 10 to about 1,000.
US08029872B2	Application of a coating forming material onto at least one substrate The invention relates to a method and apparatus for the formation of a coating on a substrate. The coating is formed by the deposition of a coating forming material onto the substrate in an atomised form via a nozzle, nebulizer or the like. The material is applied and directed to pass through an exciting medium such as a plasma. The exciting medium is generated and formed in a pulsed manner. The coating forming material passes onto the substrate which can be positioned within the exciting medium or externally of the same.
US08029871B2	Method for producing silica aerogel coating A silica aerogel coating is produced by reacting a wet gel obtained by the hydrolysis and polymerization of alkoxysilane with an organic-modifying agent to form organically modified silica, dispersing the organically modified silica by an ultrasonic treatment to form an organically modified silica dispersion, adding an ultraviolet-curable resin and a photo-polymerization initiator to the dispersion to prepare a coating liquid, applying the coating liquid to a substrate, and then irradiating ultraviolet rays to the coated layer.
US08029865B2	Method for coating or heat treatment of blisks for aircraft gas turbines A method for hard-material coating or heat treatment of the blade airfoils of blisks for gas turbines includes insulating portions of the blisk other than the blade airfoils against a furnace atmosphere; loading the blisk as a whole into a heat treatment furnace/coating cabinet at the required heat-treatment/coating temperature and partially cooling at least some of the insulated portions of the blisk with at least one of a solid and a liquid cooling medium while the blade airfoils are exposed to the temperature necessary for coating/heat treatment.
US08029861B2	Ink carriers containing low viscosity functionalized waxes, phase change inks including same, and methods for making same A phase change ink including a colorant and a carrier including a tri-ester of the formula wherein R1, R2 and R3, and n are as defined herein.
US08029852B2	Contact printing oxide-based electrically active micro-features Contact printing can be used to form electrically active micro-features on a substrate. An ink formulation containing an oxide precursor is used to form the micro-features, which are heat cured to form oxides. Various precursors are illustrated which can be used to form conducting, insulating, and semiconductor micro-features.
US08029846B2	Beverage products Beverage products and methods for making the same are disclosed. The beverage products comprise a non-nutritive sweetener comprising rebaudioside A and at least one of tagatose, and erythritol, and an acidulant comprising lactic, tartaric, and citric acids.
US08029843B2	Method for the extraction of aleurone from bran The invention relates to a method for the preparation of aleurone from bran, in particular, wheat bran, for the extraction of aleuronic cells in particular from wheat grain, whereby the mainly aleurone-containing aleuronic components are separated from the mainly non-aleurone-containing non-aleuronic components in the bran and the aleurone-containing components are then isolated. The separation can be achieved by biochemical/enzymatic means and/or by mechanical-abrasive means. The subsequent isolation and extraction can be achieved by wet and/or dry separating methods.
US08029842B2	Low water activity oxygen scavenger and methods of using An oxygen-absorbing composition, device, and method for oxygen scavenging in a low moisture environment are provided. The present invention provides an oxygen absorbing composition which includes an oxygen reducing agent, water, a carrier, an electrolyte salt, and a humectant salt, which may be the same as the electrolyte salt, present in an amount sufficient to reduce the water activity of the composition to below 0.6. Also included are methods of using the composition.
US08029839B2	Processing method for microwavable french fries A microwavable crinkle-cut French fry potato includes deep groves and coatings of oil and encapsulated salt. Crinkle-cut potato pieces are prepared with a solids content of 40-50% by weight, frozen, sprayed with oil and coated with encapsulated salt. A carton for the potato pieces is formed from a single-piece blank provided with a pair of microwave susceptor surfaces and reinforced corners. A removable lid contacts the potato pieces during microwave reconstitute.
US08029832B2	Obesity and metabolic syndrome treatment with tanshinone derivatives which increase metabolic activity The present invention relates to a composition for preventing and treating metabolic syndrome, containing tanshinone derivatives as an effective ingredient. More specifically, the present invention relates to a composition for preventing and treating metabolic syndrome, containing tanshinone derivatives that exhibit superior activity in enhancing metabolic activity, as an effective ingredient.
US08029829B2	Preventive, relieving or therapeutic composition for diabetes mellitus and/or diabetic nephropathy To provide a composition for prevention, amelioration, or treatment of diabetes mellitus and/or diabetic nephropathy, which is less likely to cause any disadvantages such as side effects, and highly safe. [1] A composition for prevention, amelioration, or treatment of diabetes mellitus and/or diabetic nephropathy, containing one or more dietary fiber selected from the group consisting of a degraded galactomannan, an indigestible dextrin, a polydextrose, inulin, arabinogalactan, dietary fiber derived from corn, a water-soluble soybean polysaccharide, psyllium, and a low-molecular weight sodium alginate, and/or a polyphenol compound.
US08029827B2	Insecticidal compositions suitable for use in preparation of insecticidal liquid fertilizers Insecticidal compositions suitable for use in preparation of insecticidal liquid fertilizers comprising a pyrethroid, a hydrated aluminum-magnesium silicate, and at least one dispersant selected from the group consisting of a sucrose ester, a lignosulfonate, an alkylpolyglycoside, a naphthalenesulfonic acid formaldehyde condensate and a phosphate ester are disclosed.
US08029824B2	Hydrogel of (semi) interpenetrating network structure and process for producing the same A hydrogel of the semi-interpenetrating network structure or interpenetrating network structure, characterized in that the hydrogel is one formed from a first monomer ingredient at least 10 mol % of which is accounted for by a charge-possessing unsaturated monomer, the molar ratio of the first monomer ingredient to the second monomer ingredient being from 1/2 to 1/100, and that the second monomer ingredient has been polymerized and crosslinked to a lower degree of crosslinking than the first monomer ingredient. The hydrogel is usable in a diaper, sanitary good, sustained-release agent, construction material, building material, communication material, soil conditioner, contact lens, ocular lens, hollow fiber, artificial cartilage, artificial organ, material for fuel cells, battery diaphragm, impact-resistant material, cushion, etc.
US08029816B2	Medical device coated with a coating containing elastin pentapeptide VGVPG The present invention is directed to medical devices including coatings. The coatings include a topcoat which includes a copolymer comprising a block of an elastin pentapeptide. The topcoat is over a layer of poly(vinyl alcohol) on a hydrophobic coating or over a porous coating comprising pores or depots that include a bioactive agent.
US08029811B2	Stabilized pharmaceutical product Use of an adsorbent and a sealed package (e.g. an overwrap) to protect a pharmaceutical product in a solid state in the presence of a reducing sugar.
US08029805B2	Recombinant B. pseudomallei adhesin protein and methods and uses thereof Isolated and/or recombinant adhesin polypeptides from B. pseudomallei are provided, which are used as vaccines. Genetic constructs comprising nucleic acid sequences encoding such polypeptides are also provided. Vectors comprising such constructs have been prepared and used for transforming host cells for producing the polypeptides of the invention. Antibodies to such polypeptides are also provided. Such antibodies can be used to detect the presence of B. pseudomallei or B. mallei.
US08029803B2	Chimeric antigens for eliciting an immune response Disclosed herein are the nucleotide sequences, deduced amino acid sequences as well as methods and compositions necessary to elicit immune responses against chronic Hepatitis B infections in animals and humans. Immune response is enhanced by fusing relevant viral antigens with xenotypic immunoglobulin heavy chain region through a peptide linker and producing the fusion proteins in Baculovirus expression system to incorporate high mannose glycosylation. By virtue of the antibody component, the fusion proteins bind to Fc receptors on the surface of antigen presenting cells, are taken up, processed and derived peptides are presented on MHC Class I, which elicit a CTL (Th1) response. In a similar fashion, due to cross priming and presentation on MHC Class II, will elicit a humoral (Th2) response. In addition, disclosed are the methods of cloning, expression and production of the fusion proteins.
US08029802B2	Vaccines against Japanese encephalitis virus and West Nile virus The invention provides attenuated Flavivirus vaccines, such as vaccines against Japanese encephalitis virus and West Nile virus, as well as methods of making and using these vaccines.
US08029799B2	Use of thymosin alpha 1 for preparing a medicament for the treatment of stage IV malignant melanoma It is described the use of thymosin alpha in combination with dacarbazine and optionally with Interferon alpha, for preparing a medicament for the treatment of malignant melanoma on stage IV characterized by distant unresectable metastases.
US08029794B2	Combining therapies targeting multiple toll-like receptors The invention relates generally to compositions that contain multiple antibodies, e.g., multiple neutralizing antibodies, that immunospecifically bind to one or more toll-like receptors, e.g., two or more toll-like receptors, and methods of using these compositions in the treatment of inflammatory disorders.
US08029792B2	TCR-independent activation of T cells A method for TCR-independent T cell activation which comprises the co-ligation of CD28 and CD81.
US08029779B2	Lactic acid bacteria Lactobacillus delbrueckii having antifungal activity is provided as novel lactic acid bacteria having antifungal activity. The Lactobacillus delbrueckii is Lactobacillus delbrueckii ANTI MUFFA FERM BP-10663 (FERM P-19705). The Lactobacillus delbrueckii has antifungal activity against mold of genus Penicillium and is excellent in probiotic activity even when used solo.
US08029776B2	Cationic lipid-mediated enhancement of nucleic acid immunization of cats The present invention relates to a method to introduce a nucleic acid molecule into a felid by administration of a nucleic acid-cationic lipid complex composition. The method includes the step of administering to the felid, by a parenteral route, a nucleic acid-cationic lipid complex to elicit and/or enhance an immune response. In one embodiment, this method enhances the immune response in a felid compared to a method in which a naked DNA vaccine is administered to a felid. Also provided is a method to deliver a nucleic acid to a felid. This method comprises parenterally administering to the felid a composition that includes a nucleic acid molecule complexed with a cationic lipid.
US08029775B2	Methods of determining dose of IL-31 agonist to treat pulmonary inflammation Use of IL-31 agonists, including IL-31, are used to treat agonists are used to treat asthma, airway hyper-responsiveness or allergic rhinitis. The method comprise inhibiting, reducing, limiting or minimizing production of proinflammatory cytokines and include administration of the IL-31 agonist during sensitization or challenge resulting in the asthma, airway hyper-responsiveness or allergic rhinitis state.
US08029773B2	Mascara containing fiber components The invention relates to a mascara containing fibre components and a method for producing the same. Said mascara contains (in % by weight) 0.1-10 of at least one oil-soluble or oil-dispersible polymer or copolymer, 0.3-10 of a natural or synthetic fibre with an average length of between 3 and 6 mm, 10-30 of a natural or synthetic wax which hardens at 25° C., 1-10 of a synthetic wax which is liquid at 18° C. and above, 0.5-10 of inorganic pigments, organic colourants and mixtures thereof, 40-80 water and cosmetic auxiliaries, active agents and mixtures thereof making up the remainder up to 100% by weight, wherein said mascara does not contain any water-soluble or water-dispersible hydrophilic polymers, film-forming agents, thickeners or clays. The fibres are separated very well and the mascara shows a very good balance between its adhesive properties and the brittleness of the mascara film.
US08029768B2	Treatment of respiratory diseases A pharmaceutical composition for pulmonary delivery comprises glycopyrrolate in a controlled release formulation, wherein, on administration, the glycopyrrolate exerts its pharmacological effect over a period greater than 12 hours.
US08029763B2	Removal of contaminants from by-product acids The present invention is drawn to a method for removing colloidal titanium dioxide and titanium oxychloride from by-product hydrochloric acid. The method includes adding phosphate ion source and quaternary amine to the by-product acid to cause the titanium dioxide and the titanium oxychloride to form a precipitate. The precipitate can then be separated from the acid, thus producing a decontaminated hydrochloric acid product with reduced levels of titanium.
US08029760B2	Method of manufacturing carbon nanotube According to a method of manufacturing carbon nanotubes, minute concavities and convexities are formed at a surface of a substrate, a catalyst metal layer having a predetermined film thickness is formed on the surface having the concavities and convexities, the substrate is subject to a heat treatment at a predetermined temperature to change the catalyst metal layer into a plurality of isolated fine particles. The catalyst metal fine particles have a uniform particle diameter and uniform distribution. Then, the substrate supporting the plurality of fine particles is placed in a carbon-containing gas atmosphere to grow carbon nanotubes on the catalyst metal fine particles by a CVD method using the carbon-containing gas. The carbon nanotubes can be formed to have a desired diameter and a desired shell number with superior reproducibility.
US08029757B2	Method of cutting carbon nanotubes Carbon nanotubes and metal particle-containing carbon nanotubes are provided. The carbon nanotubes have increased surface area. A method of cutting carbon nanotubes is also provided. According to the method, the dispersion properties of the carbon nanotubes are improved by simplifying the structural changes and/or surface modifications of the carbon nanotubes, thereby enabling insertion of an active substance into the inner walls of the carbon nanotubes and increasing the insertion efficiency.
US08029756B1	Closed-loop silicon production A closed loop bromosilane process is provided to provide semiconductor grade silicon through the thermal decomposition of tribromosilane. The resulting silicon tetrabromide byproduct from this thermal decomposition is recycled in a silicon tetrabromide converter to produce converted tribromosilane.
US08029746B2	Instrument for cassette for sample preparation A parallel processing system for processing samples is described. In one embodiment, the parallel processing system includes an instrument interface parallel controller to control a tray motor driving system, a close-loop heater control and detection system, a magnetic particle transfer system, a reagent release system, a reagent pre-mix pumping system and a wash buffer pumping system.
US08029745B2	Systems for filling a sample array by droplet dragging Systems for filling sample array by droplet dragging are provided. One aspect of the invention provides an array filling system for filling a platen having a platen surface and an array of receptacles, the receptacles having an internal surface and the receptacles separated by the platen surface, the system comprising: a liquid transfer device capable of holding liquid; and a controller configured to position the liquid transfer device in proximity to the platen surface and to move the liquid transfer device across the surface and over the receptacles to be filled so as to cause sequential communication of liquid in the liquid transfer device with the interior surface of each receptacle.
US08029741B2	Sensing device An object of the present invention is to provide a sensing device capable of easily grasping whether or not a concentration of a sensing target is equal to or less than a standard value.As a concrete means for solving the problem, a sensing device which senses, using a piezoelectric vibrator provided with an adsorbing layer for adsorbing a sensing target and electrodes, and having a natural frequency varied by an absorption of the sensing target, the sensing target by the variation of the natural frequency of the piezoelectric vibrator, is structured to include an oscillation circuit for oscillating the piezoelectric vibrator, a measuring section for measuring a concentration of the sensing target based on an oscillation output from the oscillation circuit, a storage section for storing data in which a plurality of sensing targets and their standard concentrations are corresponded to each other, a selecting unit for selecting the sensing target, a data processing section for reading out the standard concentration corresponding to the sensing target selected by the selecting unit from the storage section and comparing the standard concentration with a concentration detection value detected by the measuring section, and an output section for outputting a comparison result compared by the data processing section.
US08029739B2	Ultraviolet sanitation device A sanitation device includes a mobile body, a surface cleaning component, and a source of UV radiation. The surface cleaning component and the source of UV radiation are mounted to the mobile body, which is configured to travel over a surface. The surface cleaning component is configured to engage the surface and the source of UV radiation is configured to direct UV radiation to the surface.
US08029736B2	High temperature decomposition of hydrogen peroxide Nitric oxide (NO) is oxidized into nitrogen dioxide (NO2) by the high temperature decomposition of a hydrogen peroxide solution to produce the oxidative free radicals, hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl. The hydrogen peroxide solution is impinged upon a heated surface in a stream of nitric oxide where it decomposes to produce the oxidative free radicals. Because the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide solution occurs within the stream of the nitric oxide, rapid gas-phase oxidation of nitric oxide into nitrogen dioxide occurs.
US08029732B2	Quality control device for a blood analyser using whole blood A quality control device for a blood analyzer using whole blood, which specifically can be used to check the correct operation of the blood analyzer. The device includes a storage for storing control bloods by cooling; a mechanism for bringing the control bloods back to the temperature specified by the control blood manufacturer; a stirring mechanism used for resuspension of the cells; and a mechanism for sampling the blood thus prepared.
US08029731B2	Device for measuring/determining a physical quantity of a medium A device for measuring/determining a physical quantity of a medium. The device comprises a sensor part and an electronic part, whereby at least the electronic part is arranged inside a housing and at least one fuel cell is provided which at least partially covers the energy demand of the device.
US08029730B1	Flow cell for chemiluminescence analysis A flow cell for chemiluminescence analysis. The flow cell has a flat, thin, opaque plate, with a groove machined into one side of the plate. An inlet port at the center, and an outlet port at the outside end of the groove pass through the plate, which is sandwiched between a flat sapphire window and a cell cap of a housing. The groove side faces the sapphire window, forming a flow channel with one wall being the sapphire window. A light detector is inserted into the housing until it butts up against that part of the housing holding the sapphire window, placing it very close to the generated light. The other side of the plate mates with inlet and outlet ports of the housing cap.
US08029723B2	Method for making shaped filtration articles Shaped filtration articles are made from a monocomponent nonwoven web formed by flowing first and second fiber-forming materials of the same polymeric composition through first and second die cavities in respective fluid communication with first and second sets of orifices in a meltblowing die tip. The first fiber-forming material flows at a lesser flow rate or viscosity through the first die cavity and first set of orifices to form a set of smaller size filaments and the second fiber-forming material flows at a greater flow rate or viscosity through the second die cavity and second set of orifices to form a set of larger size filaments. The collected nonwoven web contains a meltblown bimodal mass fraction/fiber size mixture of intermingled continuous microfibers and larger size fibers of the same polymeric composition.
US08029721B2	Method of molding footwear components Mold assemblies for compression molding of footwear components include molds, heating elements, conductor plates, insulating layers and carrier trays. An upper mold assembly is placed into a fixture attached to an upper press platen. A lower mold assembly slides into and out of a fixture attached to a lower press platen. Heating elements within the mold assemblies connect to electrical contacts in the fixtures when the mold assemblies are installed in the fixtures, thereby providing electrical power to the heating elements and heating the molds. A conveyor is positioned to receive a mold assembly from (or transfer a mold assembly to) the lower press platen fixture when the lower platen is in a lowered position.
US08029720B2	Resin sealing apparatus and resin sealing method A resin molten in a pot portion 59 is molded by being loaded via a gate 48 into a cavity, which has a rectangular parallelepiped shape in plan view and is formed of both molds 1 and 2, which are a second mold 2 and a first mold 1 that can make or release contact with the second mold 2. The pot portion 59 is provided at either one of the molds 1 and 2 and constituted of recess portions 54c located at prescribed intervals at the cavity. The recess portions 54c have a bottom surface constituted of part of a moving member 60 movable toward an opening portion. The gate 48 is structured so that one side of the cavity and the long side of the pot portion 59 are connected with each other.
US08029718B2	Process for forming multi-layer molded articles The invention relates to a rotomolding process for forming a multi-layer article of two different polymers with different melting points in which an outer layer polymer powder is added to a rotational molder along with an inner layer polymer powder that is separated from the outer layer powder by a release film. The release film has a particular melting point that is greater than that of the outer layer polymer and preferably between the melting points of the inside layer and outside layer polymers. In one embodiment, the release layer forms an enclosure or bag in which the inner layer (higher melting point) powder is enclosed. In another embodiment the release film forms a barrier between an insulated cavity and the mold. The process provides a means for a “one-shot” rotomolding method.
US08029717B2	Nanoimprint method and apparatus There is provided a nanoimprint apparatus. The nanoimprint apparatus transfers a pattern formed on a surface of a mold to a transfer layer which is formed partially or entirely on a side surface of a substantially cylindrical or columnar substrate. The nanoimprint apparatus includes: a first jig which is in contact with the substrate 102; a second jig which rotatably supports the first jig; a press unit which is connected to the second jig to press the substrate on the mold 104 through the first and second jigs; and a movable holding unit which holds the mold and moves the mold 104 in a direction substantially perpendicular to a pressing force.
US08029714B2	Radial seal and method of making A method of manufacturing a radial shaft seal assembly. The method includes the step of stretching an inner diameter of a ring-shaped polytetrafluoroethylene seal radially outward from an axis with a mandrel to a first stretched condition on a mold core element. The method also includes the step of defining a substantially enclosed mold cavity around the polytetrafluoroethylene seal stretched over the mold core element with at least one mold element. The method also includes the step of locating a rigid casing within the mold cavity spaced from the stretched polytetrafluoroethylene seal. The method also includes the step of introducing a liquefied rubber elastomer into the mold cavity. The method also includes the step of molding the liquefied rubber elastomer under heat and pressure such that the rigid casing and polytetrafluoroethylene seal in a stretched state are bonded to a solid rubber elastomer member. The method also includes the step of removing the collectively bonded polytetrafluoroethylene seal and rigid casing and rubber elastomer member from the mold core element without stretching the inner diameter of the polytetrafluoroethylene seal beyond the first stretched condition.
US08029713B2	Apparatus and method for manufacturing vehicle door trim and vehicle door trim manufactured using the method A first mold has a core passage, and first and second cavities in fluid communication with each other at the core passage. A second mold has first and second nozzles therein that inject first and second resins to the first and second cavities, respectively. The core member is slidable within the core passage to provide or block the fluid communication between the cavities, and has a third nozzle therein to inject a third resin to the core passage. The first and second resins are injected into the cavities. The core member is moved to block the fluid communication between the cavities, before injecting the first and second resins is completed. The third resin is injected while moving the core member to provide the fluid communication, after injecting the first and second resins is completed. The molds are separated, thereby yielding a single molded product, such as a vehicle door trim.
US08029711B2	Method for producing a core sand and/or mold sand for foundry purposes A method for producing a core sand and/or mold sand for foundry purposes mixes a granular mineral mold base material with an additive and an inorganic binder. An inorganic swelling additive having a swelling index of at least 9, in other words a higher swelling index that that achieved for coal, is used as an additive. Alternatively, it is also possible to work with an inorganic additive, for example with macro-crystalline graphite, whereby the finished mixture of the mold base material, the additive, and the binder is compacted to a density increase of at least 20 g/dm3.
US08029699B2	Orange-yellow phosphor and warm white LED using the same A phosphor providing orange-yellow radiation is prepared from a cerium activated rare-earth garnet substrate that contains Li (lithium), Si (silicon), N (nitrogen) and F (fluorine) atoms, obtaining the overall stoichiometric equation of (ΣLn)3Al5-x-yLiy/3Mgx/2Si(x/2+2y/3)Fq/2O12-qNq/2. When the activating wavelength is 440˜475 nm, the orange sub-energy band becomes 542˜590 nm, and the radiation quatum ouput q>0.9, showing a cubic crystal garnet structure. The phosphor has color coordinate Σ(x+y)≧0.89, and color purity α≧0.89. The invention also provides a warm white LED that has light intensity J≧300 cd, half open angle 2θ≧60°, luminous efficiency 65≦ζ≦100 lm/W, and color temperature within 2800≦T≦5500K.
US08029693B2	Rapid dilution of peracid solutions to equilibrated solutions A method for the rapid dilution of an aqueous peracid solution, particularly, peracetic acid, in which a concentrated peracid solution is diluted with an aqueous diluent to produce a more dilute peracid solution in which the solution components are already at equilibrium immediately after dilution. The peracid in a preferred embodiment of this method is peracetic acid, for which the aqueous diluent is acetic acid and water, or hydrogen peroxide and water, or acetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and water, whose relative amounts are selected to produce a diluted aqueous peracid acid solution whose peracetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid components are in equilibrium immediately after dilution.
US08029689B2	Method for producing high-purity quaternary ammonium salt A process for preparing a high-purity quaternary ammonium salt comprising: (1) adding an oxide or hydroxide of a Group 1, 2, 12 or 13 metal to a quaternary ammonium salt containing a protonic acid salt of a tertiary amine as an impurity and thereby neutralizing the tertiary amine protonic acid salt with the metal oxide or hydroxide to convert the acid salt to a tertiary amine and water and to convert the metal oxide or hydroxide to a metal salt at the same time, and (2) removing the tertiary amine, water and metal salt produced from the system.
US08029688B2	Method of fine patterning semiconductor device For patterning during integrated circuit fabrication, a first pattern of first masking structures is formed, and a buffer layer is formed on exposed surfaces of the first masking structures. Also, a second pattern of second masking structures is formed in recesses between the buffer layer at sidewalls of the first masking structures. Furthermore, the first and masking structures are formed from spin-coating respective high carbon containing materials. Such first and second masking structures pattern a target layer with higher pitch than possible with traditional photolithography.
US08029685B2	Liquid ejection head and its method of manufacture A method of manufacturing a liquid ejection head and a liquid ejection head capable of preventing corrosion of electrodes are provided. The method of manufacturing a liquid ejection head includes: a step of forming porous silicon areas in portions of a silicon substrate where the liquid paths are to be formed; a step of forming in layers in the porous silicon areas a protective layer, a heating resistor layer, an electrode layer and a heat accumulation layer; a step of forming ink ejection openings in the silicon substrate; and a step of removing the porous silicon areas.
US08029680B2	Filtration apparatus and filtration method A filtration apparatus and a filtration method are provided. The filtration apparatus includes a filter medium, a first filter layer of a first filter aid disposed on an upstream side of the filter medium, and a second filter layer of a second filter aid disposed on an upstream side of the first filter layer. The first filter aid has a particle size distribution primarily including coarse particles, a representative particle diameter of which is smaller than a representative dimension of openings in the filter medium. The first aid forms bridges over the openings. The second filter aid has a particle size distribution primarily including fine particles, which are smaller than the first filter aid and which themselves cannot form bridges over the openings. The openings of the filter medium and the particles of the second filter layer are adjusted in size by bridging phenomenon of the first filter aid.
US08029677B2	Water purification method A water purification method and devices, and in particular a purification method effective against microbes, that uses a silane-based antimicrobial, and in particular the AEGIS MICROBE SHIELD antimicrobial, where the antimicrobial is embedded, coated, or otherwise permanently applied to a substrate or carrier, such as a solid, a porous solid, fibers or the like. A volume of microbe contaminated water is exposed to the antimicrobial carrier for sufficient residence time such that sufficient quantities of microbes are eradicated and the water is made potable. The antimicrobial carrier may be an object suspended or placed into a container or reservoir for the water, or the antimicrobial carrier may comprise the container or reservoir itself. Particulate filters or the like may also be combined with the antimicrobial container to remove other undesirable contaminants.
US08029675B2	Membrane distillation process and membrane distillation device In a membrane distillation process in which a liquid to be concentrated is separated from a vapor space (11) by a vapor-permeable liquid- or water-tight membrane or membrane wall (13), to set the absolute pressure of the liquid to be concentrated a reduced pressure is imparted to this which lowers the absolute pressure of the liquid to be concentrated. A corresponding membrane distillation device is also specified.
US08029674B2	Biological filter for oxidizing ammonia in drinking water treatment A process for treatment of water to convert ammonia to nitrate including: feeding water containing dissolved ammonia, as an influent introducing water to be treated, into a packed column containing filter media as packing; introducing air through a diffuser at the bottom of the packed column to maintain the water saturated with oxygen throughout the packed column; establishing colonies of bacteria converting ammonia to nitrate within the column; and removing an ammonia-free and nitrite-fee effluent from the column.
US08029671B2	Combined membrane-distillation-forward-osmosis systems and methods of use In some embodiments, systems and methods are provided for purifying a liquid, such as an impaired water. In some examples, seawater or brackish water is purified, such as to a potable level. Some configurations provide a system which includes a membrane-distillation unit, such as a vacuum-enhanced direct contact membrane distillation unit. The system also includes a forward-osmosis system, which may include one or more forward-osmosis units. A concentrated draw stream from the membrane-distillation unit, such as a concentrated brine solution, serves as a draw solution for a forward-osmosis unit, which may extract water from a source water, such as an impaired water. In some implementations, the forward-osmosis system includes a second forward-osmosis unit which uses the diluted draw solution from the first forward-osmosis unit as a draw solution to extract water from a source water. The system may include additional components, such as a heater or a buffer tank.
US08029669B2	Fluid treatment method and apparatus Apparatus for treating a fluid in a conduit, comprising first and second core elements of magnetically conductive material adapted to be mounted to the conduit to surround same at spaced positions therealong; and means for establishing radio frequency magnetic fluxes in said core elements, for generating respective electromagnetic fields in the fluid to be treated extending from spaced positions along the conduit.
US08029666B2	Wastewater screening device A wastewater screening device includes a perforate screening member through which wastewater flows, including a plurality of laterally spaced apart screening rods interconnected by cross members, such that solids in the wastewater are captured by the screening member. A plurality of wiping elements are positioned between the screening rods and shift longitudinally to clear screenings from the screening member. Each of the wiping elements has at least one end projection disposed laterally between opposite sides of the screening member, and a tapered wiping surface.
US08029664B2	Wash filter with wash velocity control cone A variable wash flow filter assembly includes a wash velocity control cone movable between a minimal position and a maximum position.
US08029660B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor integrated device with inverting plating cup Manufacture of semiconductor products such as LCD driver requires a bump plating step for forming a gold bump electrode having a size of from about 15 to 20 μm. This bump plating step is performed by electroplating with a predetermined plating solution, but projections intermittently appear on the bump electrode during a mass production process. In the invention, abnormal growth of projections over the gold bump electrode is prevented by adding, prior to the gold bump plating step, a step of circulating and stirring a plating solution while erecting a plating cup and efficiently dissolving/discharging a precipitate. This step is performed for each wafer to be treated.
US08029659B2	Write element modification control using a galvanic couple A modification rate at a surface of an anode formed on a substrate is controlled. The anode is connected to a cathode comprised of a material having a higher nobility than the anode. An electrically conductive path is established between the anode and the cathode through an electrolyte to induce formation of an oxide layer at the anode surface that is more resistive to modification than the anode.
US08029658B2	Device and method for filtration and/or separation of molecules, particularly proteins The present invention concerns a device and a method for filtering molecules that is precise, efficient, reliable, and rapid; it has a low rate of molecular loss, it can be upgraded, and it provides for the automated filtration of molecules according to one or more predefined parameters. The device (10) for filtration of molecules (3) comprises three filtration zones (11a-11c), each equipped with filtration reservoirs (1) in which a solution containing molecules (3) to be filtered is placed. The filtration reservoirs (1) are separated into two chambers by an isoelectric filter (4) which allows only selective passage of molecules (3) according to their isoelectric point (pI) when they are subjected to an electrical field generated by electrodes (5). This filtration device (10) comprises a mechanized tool holder (20) specifically for supporting one or more pairs of electrodes (5) in order to perform isoelectric filtration in one or more filtration reservoirs (1) simultaneously.
US08029655B2	Sputtering target, method for producing same, sputtering thin film formed by using such sputtering target, and organic EL device using such thin film Provided is a sputtering target which can give a high water barrier property and a high flexibility to a sputtering film, can keep a high film forming rate certainly in sputtering, and can make damages to an objective substance wherein a film is to be formed as small as possible. In order to realize this, a mixed powder which contains 20 to 80% by weight of a SiO powder, the balance of the powder being made of a TiO2 powder and/or a Ti powder, is pressed and sintered. The sintered body has a composition of SiαTiβOγ wherein α, β and γ are mole ratios of Si, Ti and O, respectively, and the ratio of α/β ranges from 0.45 to 7.25 and the ratio of γ/(α+β) ranges from 0.80 to 1.70.
US08029648B2	Process and device to moisten a web of material In a method for moistening a material web, particularly a moving web, particularly a paper or cardboard web, the moisture is applied onto the material web via at least two medium flows of different temperatures, particularly two vapor flows, or one vapor flow and one gas flow.
US08029644B2	Controlled temperature scrap removal for tape process In one embodiment, an apparatus for removing scrap from tape material on original backing paper includes a supply reel, at least one cutting member, at least one heating member and/or cooling member, and at least one removal member. The supply reel is for supplying and unrolling tape material on original backing paper. The at least one cutting member is for cutting unrolled tape material while on original backing paper. The at least one of a heating member and a cooling member are for at least one of heating and cooling cut unrolled tape material on original backing paper. The at least one removal member is for removing scrap cut unrolled tape material from original backing paper.
US08029642B2	Tape removal apparatus and process An apparatus and method is provided for removing a selected portion of tape material from backing paper. One embodiment of an apparatus may include a supply reel, at least one cutting member, at least one bending member, and first and second vacuum rollers. The apparatus may further include pinch rollers, scraping members, and scrap bins. The apparatus may allow for the removal of scrap tape material from the backing paper.
US08029636B2	Method of masking a surface A method of applying a flexible, biodegradable sheet of starch-based material to mask a surface to be coated is described. The sheet is a solid, flexible, expanded, close-celled foam. The sheet is dispersible in water.
US08029634B2	Method for manufacturing a pants-type diaper or sanitary panty, and such an article A method of manufacturing an absorbent article in the form of a pants-type diaper or a sanitary panty starts from a flat blank which includes an elongated absorbent body (5) enclosed between two casing sheets (2, 9) which at opposing front and rear end parts of the absorbent body have side parts which extend laterally beyond the body on opposite sides thereof. The method includes the step of folding the blank about a transverse axis so that the end edges of the side parts lie edge-to-edge. The front and rear side parts of the blank which oppose one another in the folded state of the blank are joined together by a releasable and refastenable fastener (20).
US08029633B2	Method of forming a consolidated fibrous structure A method of consolidating thermoplastic fibrous layers by providing a plurality of fibers having a core with an exterior surface portion comprising polypropylene and a first layer disposed on at least a portion of the core containing at least 70% alpha-olefin units which is formed into a first fibrous layer. A second fibrous layer is applied to the first fibrous layer which second layer contains a second polymer being a co-polymer having at least 50% alpha-olefin units which is characterized by a number-average molecular weight of about 7,000 to 50,000 g/mol, a viscosity of between about 2,500 and 150,000 cP measured at 170° C. and a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the exterior surface of the core. Heat and optionally pressure are applied to the assembly to consolidate the layers.
US08029629B2	Sputtering target and manufacturing method thereof A sputtering target manufactured by die forging is provided. It is characterized in that an average crystal grain size D at a portion where an average crystal grain size is the largest and an average crystal grain size d at a portion where an average crystal grain size is the smallest are related as 1.0
US08029626B2	Method for producing soft magnetic powdered core A method for producing a soft magnetic powdered core comprises a mixing step for forming a raw powder by adding a thermoplastic resin powder to a soft magnetic powder and mixing them, a compacting step for forming a compact by compacting the raw powder into a predetermined shape, a melting and setting step for the resin in which the resin of the compact is melted by heating to at least the melting point of the thermoplastic resin and the melted resin is set by cooling to a room temperature, and a crystallizing step for the resin in which the set resin is heated to not less than the exothermic onset temperature and not more than the endothermic onset temperature, which are measured by DSC analysis of the thermoplastic resin, and is cooled to a room temperature.
US08029619B2	Grouting material A grouting material which contains a fine particle material having a Blaine specific surface area of 5000 cm2/g or more, containing 30 to 60% by mass of cement clinker, 40 to 70 % by mass of and blast-furnace slag and 0.5 to 3 parts by mass of gypsum in terms of SO3 based on 100 parts by mass of the total amount of cement clinker and blast-furnace slag, and further contains (i) 4 to 8 parts by mass of calcium-aluminate-based rapid-hardening admixture, (ii) 0.05 to 0.2 parts by mass of setting retarder and (iii) 0.5 to 1.7 parts by mass of high-performance water-reducing agent, based on 100 parts by mass of the fine particle material.
US08029618B2	Manufacture of Portland cement using spent claus catalyst Spent Claus catalyst having a high alumina content is used as an ingredient in the manufacture of Portland cements in place of all or a portion of a conventional source of alumina. The spent Claus catalyst is preferably of a small particle size and can be ground to the desired fineness before mixing with the other ingredients that are heated in a conventional kiln to produce the cement composition. Finely ground spent Claus catalyst can also be used as an additive at levels of 0.1% to 2% by weight to increase the thickening time of shallow casing cement slurries.
US08029617B2	Lightweight concrete compositions A lightweight concrete composition containing from 10 to 90 volume percent of a cement composition, from 10 to 90 volume percent of particles having an average particle diameter of from 0.2 mm to 8 mm, a bulk density of from 0.03 g/cc to 0.64 g/cc, an aspect ratio of from 1 to 3, and from 0 to 50 volume percent of aggregate; where the sum of components used does not exceed 100 volume percent, and where after the lightweight concrete composition is set it has a compressive strength of at least 1700 psi as tested according to ASTM C39 after seven days. The concrete composition can be used to make concrete masonry units, construction panels, road beds and other articles.
US08029615B2	Ceramic pigments A pearlescent pigment includes a ceramic flake coated with a metal oxide. The metal oxide is, preferably, an oxide of titanium, iron, tin, chromium1, zirconium or a combination thereof, and the refractive index of the metal oxide coating is preferably at least 0.5 higher than that of the ceramic flake. The pearlescent pigment may be included in a coating applied to a metallic or plastic surface to give the surface a lustrous or pearlescent optical effect.
US08029614B2	Dry mixture of an aggregate material, a molding process using the same, and a core mold There are provided a dry aggregate mixture wherein the binder, even when heated, does not evolve unpleasant odor or gas hazardous to human health; a method of foundry molding wherein a space for foundry molding, up to minute portion thereof, can satisfactorily be filled with an aggregate mixture composed of a binder and granular aggregate; and a method of foundry molding wherein the mold used in molding of an aggregate mixture composed of a binder and granular aggregate can retain satisfactory properties even in high humidity. In the method of foundry molding, a mold is formed by the use of a dry mixture obtained by providing an aggregate mixture composed of granular aggregate, a water soluble binder and water and evaporating the water contained in the aggregate mixture through heating, pressure reduction or aeration while mixing so as to effect separation into single granules, or with the addition of a lubricant and a crosslinking agent thereto.
US08029613B2	One-pack type dental adhesive composition Disclosed is a one-pack type dental adhesive composition comprising: (a) 1.0 to 40.0 parts by weight of a silane coupling agent, (b) 0.01 to 0.4 part by weight of a weak acidic compound which is at least one of organic acid, boric acid and silicic acid, and has an acid dissociation exponent pKa of 3 or more in the form of an aqueous solution, (c) 0.01 to 0.4 part by weight of a strong acidic compound which is at least one of HF, HCl, HBr, HI, HNO3, HClO3, HClO4, HBrO4, HMnO4, H2SO4 and H3PO4 and has an acid dissociation exponent pKa of less than 3, (d) 0.1 to 5.0 part by weight of water, and (e) 20.0 to 99.0 parts by weight of a volatile organic solvent.
US08029612B2	Ink jet ink, ink jet recording method, ink cartridge, recording unit, and ink jet recording apparatus The present invention provides an ink jet ink, which gives a superior lightfastness to an ink image, has a superior sticking resistance and intermittent ejection stability, and gives a preferable color tone to the image. The ink includes an azo-based dye represented by formula (I) and a water-soluble organic solvent represented by bis(2-hydroxyethyl)sulfone represented by formula (II).
US08029611B2	Inkjet dyes exhibiting reduced kogation A salt of a sulfonated dye comprising an ammonium cation as a counterion. The ammonium cation comprises at least 3 hydroxyl groups. The salt is useful in reducing kogation in thermal inkjet printheads. One example of these salts is the compound of formula (II): wherein M is Ga(OH); and each of Z1+, Z2+, Z3+ and Z4+ is protonated 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-2,2′,2″-nitrilotriethanol.
US08029607B2	Cleaning pressure reduction through blowpipes A system for cleaning at least one filter in a baghouse and an associated method for providing the system. The at least one filter separate a dirty gas chamber from a clean gas chamber, and filters at least one substance from a gas. The system includes a supply of compressed air and a blowpipe to direct the air at the at least one filter to dislodge a collected amount of the at least one substance from the at least one filter. The blowpipe has a cross-sectional flow area through which the compressed air flows. A valve controls provision of the compressed air. The valve has a cross-sectional flow area though which the compressed gas flows. The cross-sectional area of the valve is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the blowpipe to provide for air pressure at the valve to be greater than air pressure at the blowpipe.
US08029596B2	Method of making rare-earth strengthened components A method of manufacturing a metallic component includes atomizing, in an inert atmosphere, a metallic liquid having at least one rare-earth element and at least one non rare-earth element to form a metallic powder. A series of heat treating steps are performed on the metallic powder. A first heat treating step is performed in an oxidizing atmosphere, and a second heat treating step is performed in an inert atmosphere. A third heat treating step is performed in a reducing atmosphere to form a metallic power having an increased proportion of rare-earth oxides compared to non rare-earth oxides. The metallic component is formed from the metallic powder having the increased proportion of rare-earth oxides compared to non rare-earth oxides.
US08029595B2	Method and apparatus of producing nanoparticles using nebulized droplet Methods of generating nanoparticles are described that comprises feeding nebulized droplets into a radio frequency plasma torch to generate nanoparticles, wherein the majority of the nanoparticles generated have a diameter of less than about 50 nm. These methods are useful for synthesizing nanoparticles of metals, semiconductors, ceramics or any other material class where the precursors are either in liquid form or can be dissolved or suspended in a suitable liquid. Methods of feeding nebulized droplets and central gas into a radio frequency plasma torch and apparatus for generating nanoparticles are also described.
US08029594B2	Method and device for introducing dust into a metal melt of a pyrometallurgical installation A method for introducing dust into a molten bath of a pyrometallurgical installation is described. According to the method, a carrier gas containing dust particles is guided through a heating zone of an electrode less plasma torch, the gas being converted to a plasma by inductive heating prior to being blown into a region of the installation which receives the molten bath.
US08029592B2	Diesel particulate filter assembly A diesel particulate filter assembly configured to be incorporated into an exhaust treatment device, the diesel filter assembly comprising: a ceramic media disposed about a center support defining an outlet flow path; a pair of end supports secured to the center support and the ceramic media; and an end cone secured to one of the pair of end supports.
US08029589B2	Laser welding method and filter element produced by it A method is provided for connecting a filter medium to a connection element, wherein the filter medium and the connection element are brought into contact with each other and connected to each other by exposure to laser radiation. The connection element may be welded to the end faces of filter folds in strips having a width of 1 mm. The connection element may include a laser light-absorbing layer and a laser light-transparent layer. The filter medium and connection elements may comprise nonwoven fabrics.
US08029588B2	Fine fiber media layer Disclosed are improved polymer materials. Also disclosed are fine fiber materials that can be made from the improved polymeric materials in the form of microfiber and nanofiber structures. The microfiber and nanofiber structures can be used in a variety of useful applications including the formation of filter materials.
US08029583B2	Cleaning apparatus for a gas filter A cleaning apparatus for a gas filter may include a movable support, a plurality of orifices, and a control system. The orifices may be arranged on the support for selective discharge of cleaning gas toward corresponding ones of filter openings disposed in a segment of a partition in the gas filter when the support is proximate that segment. The orifices may be grouped into at least first and second groups of orifices that may be fluidly connected to first and second valves configured for selective delivery of cleaning gas The control system may be configured to activate the first valve to cause a discharge of cleaning gas from the first group of orifices when the support is proximate a first segment and to activate the second valve to cause a discharge of cleaning gas from the second group of orifices when the support is proximate a second segment.
US08029582B2	Wireless zoned particulate matter filter regeneration control system An assembly includes a particulate matter (PM) filter that comprises an upstream end for receiving exhaust gas, a downstream end and multiple zones. An absorbing layer absorbs microwave energy in one of N frequency ranges and is arranged with the upstream end. N is an integer. A frequency selective filter has M frequency selective segments and receives microwave energy in the N frequency ranges. M is an integer. One of the M frequency selective segments permits passage of the microwave energy in one of the N frequency ranges and does not permit passage of microwave energy in the other of the N frequency ranges.
US08029580B2	Fuel cell reformer and system A reformer for a fuel cell system has at least a dual pipe configuration that forms independent spaces through which fuel containing hydrogen passes. The reformer includes a first reaction assembly for generating heat energy by an oxidation reaction of the fuel and a second reaction assembly for generating hydrogen gas from the fuel through a reforming reaction using the heat energy. The reformer further includes a first pipe, and a second pipe having a circumference significantly less than a circumference of the first pipe to thereby allow for positioning of the second pipe within the first pipe. An oxidation catalyst layer is formed in the second pipe, and a reforming catalyst layer is formed between the first pipe and the second pipe.
US08029577B2	Lightening and/or dyeing of human keratin fibres via a composition comprising a particular amino silicon compound and composition and device The present disclosure provides a method of lightening and/or colouring human keratin fibers using at least one first composition comprising at least one specific aminosilicon compound and at least one oxidizing composition. It also provides a composition containing less than 10% by weight of water comprising at least one specific aminosilicon compound and at least one fatty substance. It provides, lastly, a multiple-compartment device in which at least one compartment comprises the abovementioned composition, and at least one other compartment comprises an oxidizing composition.
US08029571B2	Containment system for constraining a prosthetic component Methods, systems and devices for preventing prosthetic articulating surfaces from separating from each other. A containment system according to one embodiment seeks to prevent an implant stem head from dislocating from a prosthetic component while providing an increased range of motion over conventional constrained components. In one embodiment, an implant structural member includes a cavity and an opening having a lip, including a web along a portion of the lip. An implant stem head has a cooperating surface that corresponds with the web, so that when the cooperating surface of the implant stem head is aligned with the web, the head may be inserted into the implant structural member. The implant stem head is then rotated and the femoral stem component attached, thereby preventing dislocation of the head.
US08029566B2	Implant sensors Exemplary orthopedic implants are disclosed. The orthopedic implants may include one or more sensors. Exemplary sensors include sensors to monitor bone growth, changes to the implant over time, and proper placement of the implant. The orthopedic implants may include a woven material. Sensor arrangements to detect a state of an item are disclosed. Exemplary states include folded, unfolded, and inflated. Exemplary items include an orthopedic implant and a parachute.
US08029565B2	Treatment for a patient with congestive heart failure The invention is directed to two minimally invasive therapeutic procedures, particularly for patients with congestive heart failure, and devices and systems for such procedures. One procedure involves providing a valved passageway through the patient's left ventricular wall at the apex of the patient's heart and advancing instruments through the valved passageway to connect the valve leaflets of the patient's heart valve, e.g. the mitral valve, in a “Bow-Tie” configuration to prevent or minimize regurgitation through the valve. The second procedure involves advancing a pacing lead and a pacing lead implanting device through a trocar in the patient's chest and implanting the pacing lead on an exposed epicardial region of the patient's heart wall. The pacing lead has a penetrating electrode which is secured within the heart wall. One or both procedures may be performed on a patient with CHF.Improved devices for these procedures include a minimally invasive grasping device having an inner lumen for advancing connecting members and other instruments through the device to the distal end thereof. Other improved devices include a pacing lead implant instrument which is releasably secured by its distal end to the exposed heart wall to facilitate penetration of the pacing lead electrode into the heart wall. Other improved instruments include a leaflet connector with an artificial cordae tendenae strand secured to an end of the leaflet connector.
US08029563B2	Implantable devices with reduced needle puncture site leakage A prosthetic implantable device that offers a reduction in fluid loss when the device is punctured, such as by a dialysis needle or suture needle, and the needle is subsequently removed. The device may be made to be thin and flexible, and with longitudinal stretch, in order that it also offers good handling and kink resistance to a surgeon. While the device is preferably of tubular form, flat sheets or other forms may also be made. The device includes inner and outer layers of a porous material having a microstructure of nodes interconnected by bent fibrils, and having void spaces between adjacent bent fibrils. The inner and outer layers are joined by an elastomeric adhesive that may interpenetrate the void spaces of the adjacent surfaces of the inner and outer layers, that is, the inner surface of the outer layer and the outer surface of the inner layer. Optionally, a middle layer of an elastomeric material may also be provided, joined to the inner and outer porous layers by the interpenetrating elastomeric adhesive. The device is preferably a vascular graft and more preferably a vascular graft for kidney dialysis.
US08029553B2	Portable laser and process for pain research A process and laser system for in vitro and in vivo pain research, pain clinical testing and pain management. In preferred embodiments of the present invention a diode laser operating at a 980 nm wavelength is used to produce warmth, tickling, itching, touch, burning, hot pain or pin-prick pain. The device and methods can be used for stimulation of a single nerve fiber, groups of nerve fibers, nerve fibers of single type only as well as more the one type of nerve fibers simultaneously. The present invention is especially useful for research of human/animal sensitivity, pain management, drug investigation and testing, and psychophysiology/electrophysiology studies. The device and methods permit non-contact, reproducible and controlled tests that avoid risk of skin damage. Applicant an his fellow workers have shown that tests with human subjects with the process and laser of the present invention correlate perfectly with laboratory tests with nerve fibers of rats. The device and the methods can be applied in a wide variety of situations involving the study and treatment of pain. Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide laser systems and techniques that permit mapping and single mode activation of C fibers and A-delta fibers.
US08029551B2	Fracture fixation plate with cover sheath A fracture fixation plate with cover sheath having a head element that is rigidly connected to a plate element in an upwardly angled direction. The head element is anatomically shaped and includes medial and lateral sheath recesses wherein non-threaded bone screw holes and a threaded sheath screw hole are located. Cylindrical head bone screws are inserted through the sheath recess and oriented at set angles allowing for bone fragment fixation and fracture reduction. Medial and lateral sheath elements are placed within the boundaries of their respective sheath recesses and are secured with a sheath screw. The sheath elements contact the heads of the inserted bone screws restricting and maintaining their implanted positions. Alternative sheath elements with outreaching medial, lateral and distal fragment capture flanges may also be utilized. The plate element includes at least one longitudinal slot with several bone screw holes for use with pivotable spherical headed bone screws.
US08029548B2	Flexible spinal stabilization element and system Systems and devices for providing dynamic stabilization of one or more spinal motion segments are provided. The systems include a connecting element between two or more bone anchor assemblies that can be attached to two or more vertebral bodies of at least one spinal motion segment. The connecting element includes a first end, a second end, an intermediate resilient element and a sheathed tether extending from the first end to the second end and through the resilient intermediate element.
US08029546B2	Variable angle offset spinal connector assembly Connector assemblies are provided to couple an elongate member extending along the spinal column to a bone engaging implant engaged to the spinal column. The connector assembly includes a coupler having an implant coupling portion and an elongate member coupling portion. The positioning and orientation of the coupler relative to the implant and elongate member can be adjusted to facilitate engagement of the connector assembly between the implant and elongate member.
US08029544B2	Spine stiffening device In various embodiments, a spinal stabilization system has a first and a second vertebral anchor each adapted to be coupled to one of a first and a second vertebrae. The system also includes a flexible connecting element coupled to each of the first and second vertebral anchors and extending between the vertebral anchors. The connecting element has a central member and a brace positioned about the central member and the central member is stiffer than the brace to provide the needed combination of support and stiffness to the construct while offering flexibility. These and other various embodiments of this invention offer an improvement over known systems by providing stabilization of the vertebral column while allowing for flexibility and axial dampening.
US08029543B2	Multi-axial, cross-link connector system for spinal implants This invention relates to interconnection assemblies for use with spinal fixation systems to treat spinal defects. The interconnection assemblies can include various spinal rod connecting members and interconnecting elements to secure the spinal rod connecting members to each other in variable orientations and lengths. The interconnection assemblies can be adjusted to minimize interference with the spinal column, bony processes, and associated neural, muscular, and ligament components of the spine all the while exhibiting a low profile. The interconnecting elements and related components can be provided as a completely assembled unit that does not inadvertently become disassembled prior to or during implantation.
US08029542B2	Supplemental spine fixation device and method A supplemental spine fixation device and method is used in association with a primary spine fixation device. The supplemental spine fixation device includes a guide and spacer for distracting apart adjacent spinous processes and the device has hook members which hook about the first and second spinous processes. With the spinous processes distracted and the hook members about the spinous processes, the hook members can be rigidly secured to a hub in order to rigidly affix the spinous processes about the spacer. The rigidity between the spinous processes assures that the vertebral bodies will be held rigidly in place in order to promote bone growth and fusion. Further additional freedom of movement between the spacer and hub is accomplished with the spacer being pivotably mounted relative to the hub. The hooks have a tissue distracting lead-in guide for allowing the hooks to be easily urged between spinous processes.
US08029541B2	Methods and systems for laterally stabilized constraint of spinous processes A spinal implant for limiting flexion of the spine includes a tether structure for encircling adjacent spinal processes. Usually, a pair of compliance members will be provided as part of the tether structure for elastically limiting flexion while permitting an extension. A cross-member is provided between the compliance member or other portions of the tether structure to stabilize the tether structure and prevent misalignment after implantation.
US08029539B2	Offset multiaxial or polyaxial screw, system and assembly A capless multiaxial screw fixation assembly, including: a screw having a threaded portion and a screw head portion positioned at one end thereof; and, a retainer having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a bore for receiving the screw threaded portion so that the screw head portion is seated therein. At least one of the screw and the retainer is configured such that the retainer is able to pivot about the screw head portion in a non-symmetrical manner.
US08029538B2	Baby teething/feeding device The infant mouthpiece includes a U-shaped mouth mold for inserting into the mouth of the infant, wherein the mouth mold comprises a top, a bottom, a center, a distal end, a proximal end, and a plurality of ridges disposed along the top of the mouth mold. The infant mouthpiece further includes a female portion of a plug and a stopper, wherein the stopper comprises a proximal side, a distal side, and a center. The mouth mold, the stopper, and the female portion of the plug are connected such that the proximal end of the mouth mold is connected to the distal side of the stopper and the proximal side of the stopper is connected to the female portion of the plug.
US08029535B2	Fasteners for use with gastric restriction A fastener is used during endoscopic procedures in which a suture is used in creating a predefined pouch through tissue apposition within the stomach. The fastener includes a fastener body having a tissue anchor for selectively securing the fastener body to tissue. The fastener body also includes a connection aperture shaped and dimensioned for passage of a suture therethrough.
US08029534B2	Closure device with string retractable umbrella A repositionable closure device for occluding a body opening is provided. The closure device includes distal and proximal occluding bodies having expandable distal and proximal umbrella frames. Each umbrella frame includes a plurality of struts connected to a biocompatible sheet material. The distal and proximal umbrella frames expand to expanded configurations on opposite sides of the body opening. The struts of the distal umbrella frame terminate with an eyelet. The distal occluding body is connected to a distal end of a center rod and the proximal umbrella frame is slidable along the center rod via a center ring. At least one drawstring is threaded through the eyelets and the center ring, connecting the distal and proximal occluding bodies. The drawstring extends proximally from the center ring. Manipulation of the drawstring and the center rod is configured to collapse the closure device for at least partial retrieval during repositioning.
US08029531B2	Surgical instrument A surgical instrument that includes an instrument shaft having proximal and distal ends, a tool disposed from the distal end of the instrument shaft, a control handle disposed from the proximal end of the instrument shaft, a distal motion member for coupling the distal end of the instrument shaft to the tool, a proximal motion member for coupling the proximal end of the instrument shaft to the handle, actuation means extending between the distal and proximal motion members for coupling motion of the proximal motion member to the distal motion member for controlling the positioning of the tool, a rotation knob disposed adjacent the control handle and rotatable relative to the control handle for causing a corresponding rotation of the instrument shaft and tool and a locking mechanism for fixing the position of the tool at a selected position and having locked and unlocked states. The rotation knob has a first position in which the locking mechanism is controlled to be in its locked state and a second position in which the locking mechanism is released to its unlocked state so as to allow tool positioning.
US08029529B1	Retrievable filter A vessel filter including a plurality of struts forming a first collapsible cone expanding radially outward in a proximal direction and a second collapsible cone expanding radially outward in a distal direction. A slidable member is disposed over the plurality of struts to collapse the struts toward a longitudinal axis of the vessel filter.
US08029528B2	Instrument guide and method for use An instrument guide and method for use. An elongate flexible body has a proximal end and a distal end. The elongate body has two portions, one or more resilient than the other. A distal pocket is positioned adjacent the distal end of the elongate flexible body. An anchor is provided to attach the guide to a surgical instrument.
US08029525B2	Puncture instrument, puncture needle cartridge, puncture instrument set, and puncture needle disposal instrument An arrangement comprises a puncturing instrument including a cylindrical box, a plurality of puncturing needles held in an axially serially connected state, a locking member for locking the puncturing needle cartridge at an axial predetermined position, and an elastic urging member urging the puncturing needle cartridge in one direction, and a puncturing needle replacing jig which allows the setting of a puncturing position for the puncturing needle cartridge and the discarding of used puncturing needles, in order to enter into a subsequent puncturing action after the puncturing of the puncturing needle. Thus, it is an object to provide, in an instrument for puncturing the surface of a living body, a highly safe puncturing instrument set having a plurality of puncturing needles, capable of continuous puncturing action by a simple operation.
US08029524B1	Angled rotary tissue cutting instruments and inner members therefor having flexible couplings A flexible inner tubular member for rotation within an angled outer tubular member of a rotary tissue cutting instrument includes a distal end having a cutting element, a proximal end connectible with a powered surgical handpiece, and a flexible coupling between the distal end and the proximal end for transmitting torque to rotate the cutting element while conforming to the angled configuration of the outer member. The flexible coupling comprises inner, middle and outer spiral members, each formed of a flat strip of material, alternately wound in opposite rotational directions. The strips of material that form the inner and outer spiral members have a width intentionally and measurably different from the width of the strip of material that forms the middle spiral member.
US08029522B2	Method and apparatus for sealing a gastric opening An anchorable cannula adapted for positioning within an opening formed in tissue includes a cannula body having a proximal portion and distal portion. The proximal portion and the distal portion are linked by a circumferential ring positioned therebetween. The proximal portion includes a series of foldable arms extending upwardly from the circumferential ring and ending at a circumferential seal ring formed at a free end of the proximal portion. The distal portion includes a series of foldable arms extending downwardly from the circumferential ring and ending at a circumferential seal ring formed at a free end of the distal portion.
US08029513B2	Tightly binding device for bone joining cable A bone-tying cable tightening device with improved easiness of handling of is disclosed. The device comprises a grip portion, a rod-like member extending forward, a knot supporter at the tip, a cable holder to grip and hold the tow arms together, and a sliding block mounted around the rod-like member and connected to a puller and an operation lever to drive the puller. The knot supporter supports two arms that can be hooked away from each other and laterally above the rod-like member, the cable holder is made up of a longitudinal through groove a locking recess which extends, at the end of the through groove, and a backward biased locking member which is provided movably back and forth behind the locking recess on the upper side of the sliding block made so that its forward movement is blocked when it fits in the locking recess.
US08029511B2	Multi-stage biomaterial injection system for spinal implants A method and apparatus for fluidly coupling a reservoir containing a flowable biomaterial to a mold. The flow of the flowable biomaterial into the mold is controlled in accordance with a first operating parameter. At least one injection condition is monitored. The flow of the flowable biomaterial is controlled in accordance with a second operating parameter in response to one or more of the injection conditions reaching a threshold level. The second operating parameter is maintained during at least a portion of the curing of the flowable biomaterial. In some embodiments, the second operating parameter may optionally include permitting a portion of the flowable biomaterial to be expelled from the mold.
US08029510B2	Surgical machine and method for controlling and/or regulating a surgical machine In order to so improve a surgical machine comprising a housing and a surgical drive that maintenance of the machine is simplified, it is proposed that the drive and the housing be directly on indirectly connectable in a detachable manner.A method for controlling and/or regulating a surgical machine is also proposed.
US08029506B2	Bone fracture treatment devices and methods of their use A bone treatment device comprises a shaft having a tubular wall, a lumen extending within the tubular wall, openings through the tubular wall, and anchoring elements adjacent the openings that can be deployed out of the openings in the presence of an actuating force within the shaft lumen. The bone treatment device may further comprise an actuator configured to be received within the shaft lumen to deploy the anchoring elements out of the openings.
US08029505B2	External fixation system and method of use An external fixation system for connecting one or more bone segments together to facilitate healing of bone. The system may include one or more rings and/or ring segments. One or more linear distractors and/or angular distractors may connect the rings to each other so as to allow for distraction and/or reduction/compression of a bone. Linear distractors may enable an operator to move the rings towards and away from each other, while angular distractors may enable an operator to angle the rings relative to each other. In an embodiment using angular distractors, one or more angular separation assemblies may be positioned between the rings. These separation assemblies may have joints which may two portions which may be angled relative to each other and connected directly or indirectly to the rings. Various fasteners (e.g., nuts) and/or tightening members may configured for quick movement along and selective tightening to various components. Moreover, clamps may be attached to the rings and may engage pins, wire, rods, which may be inserted into bone to hold bone segments to each other. The components of the external fixation system may be provided in sets or kits so that the a surgeon may select various combinations of components to create an external fixation system which is configured specifically for the particular needs of a patient and the bone fracture/deformity.
US08029504B2	Electroporation ablation apparatus, system, and method A surgical instrument, such as an endoscopic or laparoscopic instrument, includes an ablation device. The ablation device includes an elongate member comprising first and second channels. First and second probes are disposed within the respective first and second channels, where the first and second probes each define a central axis. First and second electrodes are coupled to distal ends of the respective first and second probes. A distance between the first and second electrodes is adjustable by rotating at least one of the first and second probes about the central axis of the at least one of the first and second probes.
US08029494B2	Method of removing biliary stones with coaxial catheter device A method of removing an obstruction in the biliary duct including the steps of providing a coaxial catheter device comprising an inner catheter having a proximal end and a distal end wherein at least two or more lumens are formed between the proximal end and distal end of the inner catheter. The method includes providing an outer catheter having a proximal end and a distal end and an opening wherein the inner catheter is coaxially engaged through the opening of the outer catheter thereby forming a coaxial space between the inner catheter and the outer catheter wherein at least one of the two or more lumens is configured for receiving a fluid for inflating a balloon, at least one of the first lumen and the second lumen is configured for receiving a wire guide and the coaxial space is configured for receiving a flushing fluid for the removal of an obstruction within the biliary duct.
US08029491B2	Method and apparatus for preventing air embolisms Method and apparatus for preventing air embolisms during surgical procedures which involves providing a fluid source in communication with an aperture extending into an anatomical cavity such that fluid may be delivered into the cavity when a condition of negative pressure exists in the cavity, thereby preventing the introduction of air into the cavity.
US08029490B2	Absorbent article for use with an application aid An absorbent article having at least one belt part with a first end secured to the absorbent article, and a second end, wherein the belt part has a feature for cooperating with an application aid so that the belt and the application aid cooperate when guided under the user.
US08029487B2	Absorbent article with improved fit and leakage security An absorbent article having front, crotch and rear portions and an absorbent core of unitary construction. The core has a first region with two legs extending in the longitudinal direction of the article through at least parts of the crotch portion towards endings in the rear portion. A maximum distance between facing sides of the legs in the transverse direction is, in the crotch portion, located at a position in the longitudinal direction corresponding to a crotch point. Furthermore, the facing sides of the legs converge backwards such that a distance between them is reduced from the maximum distance to a minimum distance in the rear portion. In addition, the core has a second region surrounding the first region and the average density of the core is lower in the second region than in the first region.
US08029477B2	Applier with safety for implantable medical device An attachment mechanism for a surgically implantable medical device includes one or more fasteners which may be simultaneously moved from an undeployed position to a deployed position by operation of an integral actuator. The attachment mechanism may be configured to be deactuated, and the fasteners simultaneously moved from a deployed position to an undeployed position, allowing removal or repositioning of the medical device. An applier includes a locator for detachably holding the implantable medical device, locating it at the desired position, and actuating the attachment mechanism. The applier is configured to undeploy the attachment mechanism the implantable medical device can be detached from the body tissue.
US08029475B2	Reinforced seal assembly A seal assembly adapted for use in conjunction with a trocar assembly includes a seal body permitting the selective insertion and removal of instruments. The seal body includes a plurality of overlapping seal segments, each seal segment including a peripheral edge with a central seal member extending therefrom. The central seal member includes a free edge remote from the peripheral edge. A reinforcement pad is located on at least one of the seal segments between the peripheral edge and the free edge of the central seal member.
US08029472B2	Safety catheter system and method A catheter integral with a valved needle-free connector provides a safety catheter device configured to receive a blunt cannula and sharp needle forming an insertion mechanism. The sharp needle is mounted within a needle tube and a control handle is used to slide the sharp needle out of and into the protective needle tube. When the insertion mechanism is mounted to the connector and the control handle is used to slide the sharp needle out of the tube, a blunt cannula first moves into contact with and enters the bore of the valve mechanism of the connector opening it and protecting it from damage that may be caused by the sharp needle. The sharp needle is then extended through the connector and extends out the distal end of the catheter so that a venipuncture procedure may be performed to properly locate the catheter in the patient's circulatory system. Once located, the needle may be retracted into the insertion mechanism, the insertion mechanism disconnected from the connector, and discarded.
US08029468B2	Fluid delivery and mixing apparatus with flow rate control A dual reservoir fluid dispensing apparatus for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments, such as antibiotics, analgesics and like medicinal agents from either or both of the device reservoirs. The fluid dispensing apparatus includes novel fill means for selectively filling each of the reservoirs with the same or different medicaments that are to be dispensed to the patient. Stored energy sources are provided in the form of a pair of constant force spring members of novel design that provide the force necessary to continuously and substantially uniformly expel fluid from the reservoirs. The apparatus also includes novel adjustable flow rate assemblies that are disposed intermediate the outlet port of the fluid reservoirs and the outlet port of the device for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow from the outlet port toward the patient.
US08029467B2	Stretch resistant therapeutic device A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature.
US08029466B2	Stretch resistant therapeutic device A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature.
US08029465B2	Stretch resistant therapeutic device A vasoocclusive coil is reinforced with a stretch resistant member to improve safety during retraction of the coil. The stretch resistant member is fixedly attached at one end to the vasoocclusive coil, and the other end of the stretch resistant member is detachably mounted to an elongated pusher member to allow for placement and release of the vasoocclusive coil within the patient's vasculature.
US08029456B2	Compact intravaginal device applicator The present invention provides a compact intravaginal device applicator assembly having a longitudinal axis comprises an elongated barrel with an insertion end and an opposite gripper end; an intravaginal device and a plunger with a restraint.
US08029454B2	High convection home hemodialysis/hemofiltration and sorbent system A system, method and apparatus for performing a renal replacement therapy is provided. In one embodiment, two small high flux dialyzers are connected in series. A restriction is placed between the two dialyzers in the dialysate flow path. The restriction is variable and adjustable in one preferred embodiment. The restriction builds a positive pressure in the venous dialyzer, causing a high degree of intentional backfiltration. That backfiltration causes a significant flow of dialysate through the high flux venous membrane directly into the patient's blood. That backfiltered solution is subsequently ultrafiltered from the patient from the arterial dialyzer. The diffusion of dialysate into the venous filter and removal of dialysate from the arterial dialyzer causes a convective transport of toxins from the patient. Additionally, the dialysate that does not diffuse directly into the patient but instead flows across the membranes of both dialyzers provides a diffusive clearance of waste products.
US08029452B2	Arm brace for sonographers A support for sonographers provides a path of force transmission from an ultrasound probe to the sonographer's upper arm bypassing the wrist, and thus reducing wrist injuries that can come from the need to tightly grip and restrain an ultrasound probe for long periods of time.
US08029451B2	Compression sleeve having air conduits A compression sleeve is described as having a first sheet, a second sheet attached to said first sheet and defining at least one inflatable section, and at least one conduit disposed within the boundary of the least one of said inflatable sections.
US08029449B2	Cryotherapy method for detecting and treating vulnerable plaque Methods, apparatus, and kits detect and/or treat vulnerable plaque of a blood vessel. A temperature differential can be sensed along a lumen surface with temperature sensors on a balloon filled with warm gas. Treatment methods include controlled and safe cryogenic cooling of vulnerable plaque to inhibit release of retained fluid within the vulnerable plaque so as to inhibit acute coronary syndrome and to help maintain patency of a body lumen.
US08029446B2	Ultrasonic imaging system and imaging method An ultrasonic imaging system includes an imaging catheter and an imaging apparatus. The imaging catheter has an insert for being inserted into a blood vessel, a transducer disposed in the insert, and at least one temperature sensor disposed in the insert. The temperature sensor measures the intravascular temperature in a radial direction of the blood vessel and rotates to measure an intravascular temperature distribution in a transverse cross section of the blood vessel. The diagnostic imaging apparatus has an ultrasonic signal receiver for receiving an ultrasonic signal measured by the transducer, a temperature signal receiver for receiving an intravascular temperature signal measured by the temperature sensor, and an image constructing unit for constructing an image to be displayed from a tomographic vascular image generated from the ultrasonic signal and intravascular temperature information generated from the intravascular temperature signal, in relation to positional information of the ultrasonic signal and the intravascular temperature signal.
US08029443B2	Glucose measuring device integrated into a holster for a personal area network device A glucose meter module integrated into a holster device that can securely accommodate another device such as a portable server device or an insulin pump is described. The glucose measuring module and the health device communicate with each other by a short range wireless modality. In the case in which the accommodated device is a server, such as personal digital assistant or cell phone, the device stores data in a memory, displays data on a visual display, and can wirelessly transmit such data to other devices within a personal area network. In the case where the accommodated device is a cell phone, the phone can further transmit data to remote sites. In the case where the accommodated device is an insulin pump, wirelessly received data are stored in a memory, are available for visual display on the insulin pump, and can be incorporated into the electronic processes that regulate the performance of the pump.
US08029440B2	Video blade laryngoscope A laryngoscope including a control circuit and a camera having a housing enclosing the camera that is detachably connectable to a handle, where the camera functions and is compatible with a wide variety of displays. The laryngoscope may optionally be used in either the video mode where the user views a display presenting image data of the area ahead of the blade, or the user may use the laryngoscope in the direct visualization where the user uses the laryngoscope in a traditional manner directly viewing the area ahead of the blade during the intubation procedure. When used in the video mode, an LED is positioned adjacent to a window enclosing the digital image sensor to defog the window.
US08029438B2	Endoscope and hydrophilic cap An endoscope includes: an insertion portion including a distal end portion, to be inserted into a subject; an observation optical system disposed in the insertion portion; an optical member configuring a part of an outer surface of the distal end portion, through which a photographing light to be incident into the observation optical system transmits; a first hydrophilic portion that is film-formed at least on a surface of the optical member; a second hydrophilic portion that is film-formed on a first surface of the distal end portion in which the optical member is disposed; and a third hydrophilic portion that is film-formed on a second surface separate from the first surface of the distal end portion.
US08029435B2	Implantable sling for the treatment of incontinence and method of using the same An implantable sling for the treatment of male or female incontinence and method of implementing the same. The sling comprises a urethral support portion and at least one anchoring portion extending therefrom. The anchoring portion is operatively positioned through the obturator foramen and about at least one ramus portion of the pelvis such that the support portion of the implant is operatively positioned at or distal to the bulbar urethra (male) or mid-urethral region (female) to treat urinary incontinence. In a preferred embodiment, the implant will have first and second anchoring portions extending from the support portion with each respective one of said anchoring portions being operative to be secured about dedicated ones of the patient's pubic ramus. The implants may further be fabricated from tissues, synthetic materials or combinations thereof.
US08029432B2	Magnetic system for treatment of cellular dysfunction of a tissue or an extracellular matrix disruption of a tissue A system, kit, and pet bed for treating tissue using magnetic coils connected to a pulse generator. The system can include a power supply, a bi-directional communication and power port, a microcontroller, a processor, a data storage, and a Helmholtz-like magnetic coil pair. The kit can include a saddlebag and a support strap. The pet bed can include bedding, a fabric housing, a Halbach array, and an on/off switch.
US08029430B2	Outsert-forming method A method and apparatus for forming informational items such as outserts and booklets may include (a) folding a sheet of paper having product information printed thereon by making a plurality of folds in the sheet of paper to form a first folded article; (b) making a plurality of folds in the first folded article in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and (c) making a final fold in the second direction to form an outsert using a folding apparatus having a pair of adjustably-spaced folding rollers having a nip therebetween and a movable blade member, with the folding rollers spaced apart by a distance within a range of 0.25 inches and 0.45 inches. Water scoring may be used to facilitate folding of the sheet of paper.
US08029429B2	Mechanism and method for bonding paper sheets on interfolding machine In a mechanism and method for bonding two paper sheets on an interfolding machine, pre-compressing mechanisms are provided on each of two folding rollers to produce compress-to-bond areas on overlapped portions of two thick or air-impermeable paper sheets transferred to the two folding rollers, so that all plies of the two paper sheets at the compress-to-bond areas are compressed to bond together. Thereby, when the interfolding machine operates at a high speed, a plurality of the locally compressed and bonded paper sheets may still be smoothly folded to form a stack of interfolded paper sheets, such as a tissue paper stack or a paper towel stack.
US08029428B2	Method and apparatus for making skirtless seals A machine and method for making bags is described and includes a web traveling from an input section to a rotary drum, to an output section. The rotary drum includes at least one seal bar, having a single sealing zone, and a weakening zone disposed within the single sealing zone. The single sealing zone may be a heated perforator, and may include a heating wire. The heating wire may be an NiCr wire stitched into the heater, and be disposed on a cap or on the seal bar. The weakening zone may create a line of weakness that is uniform or varies in intensity. The sealing zone may include temperature zones, cartridge heaters, cooling air, or heated air, or a source of ultrasonic, microwave or radiative energy.
US08029427B1	Paint roller system with selectively lockable roller A paint roller system includes a handle and an applicator support frame. The support frame has a base end by which it is connected to the handle and is configured to include an axle that is oriented generally orthogonally to the handle and includes a distal end. An interior frame channel extends between a first opening in the base end and a second opening in the distal end. A linkage snaked through the channel includes a first end coupled to an actuator carried by the handle and a second end terminating in a keyed lug. A roller disposed for rotation about the axle is configured to support for rotation a cylindrical paint applicator. The roller includes a keyed socket axially aligned with the second opening in the axle. The actuator is movable into a first position in which the keyed lug is disengaged from the keyed socket and that the roller is free to rotate, and a second position in which the lug protrudes from the second opening and into the keyed socket, thereby preventing roller rotation.
US08029423B2	Isometric exercise apparatus and storage rack therefor The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment and more specifically, to an isometric exercise apparatus and a storage rack therefor. The isometric exercise apparatus includes a frame which has a base and a sidewall joined to the base. The base has an exercise platform for supporting a user's body. Also provided is a restraint arm assembly connected to the frame. The arm restraint assembly includes a swing arm pivotally connected to the base, a restraint arm carried by the swing arm and positionable above the exercise platform to inhibit movement of a portion of the user's body so as to allow the user to perform isometric exercises. An indexing assembly is provided to fix the swing arm in a predetermined angular position selected from a set of discrete angular positions relative to the base. At least one limb restraint accessory is positionable at predetermined locations along the base for inhibiting movement of the user's limb so as to allow the user to perform isometric exercises. The apparatus can rapidly be adapted or configured to target a plurality of joint angles to work different muscle groups (or different muscles within the same muscle group) for an enhanced isometric workout.
US08029422B2	Martial arts striking device with flexible, non-force impact, relatively non-resistant contact, striking targets, and method of use A martial arts striking device and method of use that overcomes the relatively hard force impact and resistance disadvantages of all prior striking devices for martial arts, boxing, and physical fitness by allowing visibly targeted “non-force impact” (meaning relatively less forceful impact) striking at relatively “non-resistant contact” targets to enhance speed and power while using less effort. Said striking targets can be substantial in size and made of a lightweight flexible material or fabric that reacts with a spontaneous refresh rate when struck, thereby simulating a live opponent. Said striking targets can be easily suspended from a variety of existing structures or specially produced frames and supports to form familiar punching bag shapes, enclosures, or to simulate being surrounded by multiple opponents. In contrast to prior art objects, said striking device is light in weight, easier to mount, noiseless when used, and suitable for safe home use.
US08029421B2	Reactive punching bag device A reactive punching bag device is provided. The reactive punching bag device includes a first telescoping pole and a second telescoping pole. The telescoping poles are via a center pole which may include at least one quick release hook. The connected pole assembly is connectable to a heavy punching bag, or any suitable bag, and provides a reactive obstacle to a trainee developing defensive and offensive skills. In addition, the heavy bag may include at least one attachment chain for hanging the heavy bag. The pole assembly may also include a first and second pole connectable to a center pole by elastic cord through the center of the poles.
US08029419B2	Support mechanism for transforming bicycle into stationary bike A support mechanism includes a front unit and a rear unit, wherein two swing members are respectively and pivotably connected to the front unit and the rear unit. Two positioning members are respectively connected to the two swing members and the front wheel shaft and the rear wheel shaft of a bicycle are connected to the two positioning members, so that the bicycle can pivot together with the swing members. Multiple rollers respectively connected to the front unit and the rear unit and the front and rear wheels are rotatably in contact with the rollers. A connection unit is connected between the rollers on the front unit and the rear unit. When treading the pedals of the bicycle, the front and rear wheels are rotated and the front wheel can be pivoted and the bicycle can be swung.
US08029417B2	Machines and methods for combined and isolated upper and lower body workouts An elliptical exercise machine allowing a user to move between a first position (standing on a stationary platform and using the machine's exercise arms), a second position (using the machine's footskates and holding a stationary handlebar), and a third position (using the machine's footskates and exercise arms), or any variation thereon. The machine may include a computer that directs the user's movements between those positions and others.
US08029415B2	Systems, methods, and devices for simulating real world terrain on an exercise device An exercise system includes one or more exercise devices that communicate via a network with a communication system. The communication system stores and/or generates exercise programming for use on the exercise device. The exercise programming is able to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device to simulate terrain found at a remote, real world location. The exercise programming can include images/videos of the remote, real world location. The control signals and the images/videos can be synchronized so that a user of the exercise device is able to experience, via the changing operating parameters, the topographical characteristics of the remote, real world location as well as see images of the location.
US08029413B2	Wheel assembly for trampolines A wheel assembly for attachment to the leg of a trampoline has means for moving the wheel from a first raised position where the wheel is not supporting the trampoline leg above the ground, to a second position where the wheel is supporting the trampoline leg above the ground. In that way the trampoline can be rolled on wheels without having to subsequently remove the wheel assemblies for storage.
US08029412B2	Portable hurdle A portable hurdle for use primarily athletes has a base portion operably secured to a bow portion that holds the hurdle to a predefined height when the bow portion is placed in tension by a securing structure. The hurdle lays substantially flat when the bow portion is returned to its neutral position. In one disclosed embodiment, the securing structure is a trap that forms the top of the hurdle. In other disclosed embodiments, the base portion defines the top of the hurdle. An adjustment structure allows for adjustment of the hurdle's height.
US08029410B2	Exercise system and portable module for same An example portable module is for use with an exercise system which includes a moveable element, a first processor and a port adapted to receive the portable module. The portable module includes a second processor and a memory storing information usable to control one or more parameters associated with the movable element.
US08029403B2	Multi-speed transmission with selectable one-way braking clutch A multi-speed transmission for a vehicle is provided with a selectable one-way braking clutch (SOWBC). The transmission has an input member connected for common rotation with one of the members of four planetary gear sets and an output member connected for common rotation with another of the members of the planetary gear sets. Four interconnecting members connect different members of the planetary gear sets for common rotation. A first brake is selectively engagable to ground the first member of the first planetary gear set to the stationary member. A first, a second, and a third rotating clutch are each selectively engagable to connect a different respective pair of the members of the planetary gear sets for common rotation. A selectable one-way braking clutch is configured to brake in one rotational direction and is selectively reversible to brake in an opposite rotational direction, and freewheels in some speed ratios.
US08029397B2	Chainguard and bicycle frame A chainguard for use on a bicycle includes a housing having a connecting portion and an engaging portion. The connecting portion and the engaging portion are connected to a seat tube and a rear stay of a bicycle frame in the bicycle. Additionally, the rear stay includes a first portion and a second portion adapted for engaging with an axle of a rear wheel, and the first and second portions are interconnected at a corner. Additionally, the second portion includes a first surface, a second surface and a third surface substantially transverse to and interconnecting the first and second surfaces. Further, the third surface defines a positioning portion on which the engaging portion of the chainguard is mounted.
US08029395B2	Hydraulic actuator for belt type continuously variable transmission A hydraulic actuator for a belt type continuously variable transmission, with which a smooth operation is secured and both superior productivity and reduced manufacturing costs can be expected, includes a first cylinder provided on a movable sheave, a drum having a first drum portion that covers the first cylinder and a second drum portion that is fitted to a boss portion of the movable sheave and formed with a plurality of projections, a first plunger having a cylindrical portion that is fitted to the first cylinder and the second drum portion to form a first hydraulic chamber, and a second plunger fitted to the cylindrical portion and the first cylinder to form a second hydraulic chamber. An oil passage connecting the first hydraulic chamber and the second hydraulic chamber is formed by a gap between the second drum portion and cylindrical portion, which are fitted together.
US08029394B2	Game ball with noise suppression disk An inflatable game ball containing a noise suppression device and a method for inflating the game ball are described. More particularly, a free standing, noise suppression disk is fit snuggly within a central area of the hollow internal cavity formed by the bladder of the game ball. The diameter of the noise suppression disk is slightly larger than the diameter of the hollow internal cavity of the ball, while the thickness of the disk is sufficient to provide necessary rigidity to the game ball noise suppressor without adding excess weight to the ball. An exact amount of SF6 is pre-filled in the balls, when combined with subsequent air, is determined to create the ultimate SF6 to air ratio range at various altitude levels. Subsequently, the balls are only partially inflated at the time of manufacture with the SF6 gas, and no air.
US08029391B2	Composite bat A bat includes a composite material barrel. The barrel includes a plurality of layers. A stiffening layer forms one of the exterior layers of the barrel. The stiffening layer includes unidirectional fibers, where the unidirectional fibers are oriented to substantially encircle the barrel. The stiffening layer is positioned on the barrel to cover at least a portion of the sweet zone. The barrel may include multiple walls, where each wall includes a stiffening layer.
US08029390B2	Reinforced lacrosse head and related method of manufacture A reinforced lacrosse head having improved strength can include the following frame elements: a pair of opposing sidewalls each having a top end and a bottom end, a scoop extending between the sidewalls, a base extending between the bottom ends of the sidewalls, and a throat extending from the base for attachment to a lacrosse handle. The head can include at least one reinforcement member that is located at least partially in a frame element. The frame element can be constructed from two or more parts that are sonic welded or hot plate welded together around at least a portion of the reinforcement member. Methods of sonic welding or hot plate welding components of a reinforced frame element also are provided.
US08029389B2	Ball-hitting trainer A ball-hitting trainer is provided with a base combined with a flexible shaft that may bend in all directions. The flexible shaft is structured with a helical spring and a flexible wire. The flexible wire is wound around an outside gap of the helical spring so as to make the flexible wire helical and wrap the whole helical spring. The body of flexible shaft is covered by a plurality of shock absorbers, and a free end of the flexible shaft is connected to a cup-shaped body; thus the ball-hitting trainer is formed and a ball may be placed in the cup-shaped body for practice of ball hitting.
US08029384B2	Golf club head A golf club head includes a striking face having a plurality of grooves formed therein. At least one groove includes a first curved side surface, a second curved side surface opposite to the first curved side surface, and a bottom surface connecting the first and the second curved side surfaces. As viewed in the longitudinal direction of the at least one groove, the first and the second curved surfaces respectively have first and second involute profiles. A distance measured between the first and the second curved surfaces continuously increases from the bottom surface to the striking face.
US08029382B2	Golf-club shafts having selectable-stiffness tip regions, and golf clubs comprising same The subject golf clubs have a shaft and clubhead. The shaft has a tip-end coupled to the clubhead, a butt-end, a reduced-EI portion located adjacent the tip-end, and a remaining portion extending between the butt-end and the reduced-EI portion. The portions are coupled together at an interface. The remaining portion exhibits a respective rate of stiffness reduction as a function of distance from the butt-end. The reduced-EI portion is typically shorter than and has less stiffness than the remaining portion. A stiffener is coupled to the shaft, such as in the reduced-EI portion, to add stiffness locally. The reduced-EI portion exhibits a respective rate (which can be zero) of stiffness reduction as a function of distance toward the tip-end. These rates can be similar or different. The interface can exhibit a greater rate in stiffness reduction than the other portions. The stiffeners can be user-selectable, from a kit supplied with the club, for example. The clubhead can be removable from the shaft to facilitate stiffener exchange.
US08029381B2	Device for improving a golf swing Described is a portable and intuitive golf swing improvement device for indicating the proper shift of a golfer's body weight to the front foot during a down swing. More specifically, the swing improvement device measures the shift of the golfer's body weight during a golf swing and indicates when such shift is in accordance with a technically sound swing. Additionally, the swing improvement device is self-sufficient and portable such that the device is deployable almost anywhere. The swing improvement device also provides swing analysis in a manner that is immediately understandable to the golfer.
US08029378B1	Apparatus and methods for training a golf stroke An apparatus for training a golf stroke comprising: a grip for orienting the user's hands; a restraining bar for orienting the user's arms mechanically coupled to one end of the grip; a shaft mechanically coupled to the end of the grip opposite the restraining bar; and an indicator for the user to determine the orientation of the apparatus mechanically coupled to the end of the shaft opposite the grip. Such apparatus and related methods facilitate training a golfer to swing a golf club by executing a stroke with a proper grip, posture, alignment, balance, and movement during setup, backswing, downswing, and follow-through.
US08029369B2	Chair interconnection for a gaming machine A gaming system including a chair having a base and a mechanical connector mounted to the base, and a gaming machine having a rotary locking mechanism to mate with the mechanical connector of the chair to latch the base to the gaming machine. The gaming machine and base can include an electrical connection.
US08029368B2	Method of entertaining using a mobile entertainment environment A method for entertaining event attendees involves installing electronic equipment in a mobile entertainment environment and then transporting the mobile electronic environment to an event location. At the event location, event attendees are provided with temporary authorization and access to the mobile entertainment environment and subsequently entertained. At the conclusion of the entertainment, temporary authorization and access is revoked and the mobile electronic environment is removed from the event location. For storage, electronic equipment can be removed from the entertainment environment and placed in a secure location. The mobile entertainment environment preferably is a trailer pulled by a delivery vehicle, such as a pickup truck. The trailer has multiple entry points and contains comfortable seating for event attendees and multiple entertainment stations. At each entertainment station attendees can play games or watch DVDs using one of several gaming systems and their corresponding peripherals. Large video displays and audio equipment enhance the experience at each entertainment station. Interactive gaming can be experienced among multiple players at a single station, among players at different stations, or by connected to the internet for interactive play with remote players. Additional features of the entertainment environment include security cameras, exterior video displays for the benefit of attendees not in the trailer, stabilizers to minimize motion sickness within the trailer, and a video controller for providing master control of all of the video displays.
US08029365B2	Hierarchical multi-tiered system for gaming related communications A system, apparatus and method for gaming-related communications in a hierarchical multi-tiered system are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes transmitting a master configuration from a central operations of a hierarchical multi-tiered system to a local gaming site having one or more gaming components. The method also includes receiving a selected configuration for one or more of the gaming components based on the master configuration. The method includes downloading the selected configuration to the one or more of the gaming components through the hierarchical multi-tiered system.
US08029364B2	System, method, and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering game machine System, methods and apparatus for presenting media in a wagering game machine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving an internal media request from a component of the wagering game machine and receiving an external data signal from outside the wagering game machine. In the embodiment, the method also includes preparing media based on the internal media request and the external data signal and presenting the media on media presentation devices.
US08029362B2	Gaming device methods and apparatus employing audio/video programming outcome presentation In a first aspect, a method (e.g., of operating a gaming device) is provided. The method includes the steps of (i) receiving audio/video content; (ii) associating a plurality of sets of outcome values with the audio/video content; (iii) determining a play session; (iv) determining which of the plurality of sets of outcome values to associate with the audio/video content for a duration of the play session, thereby determining an active set of outcome values; (v) determining a result of a game play during the session; (vi) selecting, based on the result, a value from the active set of outcome values; and (vii) outputting, as an indication of the result, the audio/video content and an indication of the selected value.
US08029361B2	Method and apparatus for providing player incentives A system and method is provided for incentivizing players to visit a gambling location. In one aspect, a qualified person is invited to play an electronic game which has a plurality of outcomes, at least one of which is a winning outcome. In one embodiment, the qualified person may be required to redeem the outcome at the gambling location. In another embodiment, the person may be required to redeem the outcome at a redemption location.
US08029359B2	Providing offers to computer game players A method of rewarding a game player of a game can target particular types of offers to a player. A usage profile is determined for the player, which can be based on interaction between the player and items or goals in a game. Player information is identified, such as player statistics or categorization of the player. A category is selected for the player, based on the usage profile and the player information for the player. An offer is then selected from a group of offers, wherein the offer is for a real world object, service or event.
US08029358B2	Gaming device having free game bonus with a changing multiplier The present invention includes an apparatus and method for a bonus game, and particularly a free spin bonus with an incrementing multiplier. The bonus game includes a plurality of reels having a plurality of symbols and multipliers. The gaming device provides a number of free spins to the player at the beginning of the bonus game. The multiplier preferably starts at “1×” and increases by one after each free spin. Initially, the player spins the reels attempting to obtain a winning symbol combination on the reels. If the player obtains a winning combination, the gaming device provides an award. The award is multiplied by the multiplier and the player receives the multiplied award for that free spin. The player continues to spin the reels until there are no free spins remaining in the bonus game.
US08029357B2	Gaming token having a variable value A system installed in a casino allows gambling chips in the casino to have variable values. Each chip has an electronic circuit installed in it to store a chip identifier and data indicative of a value currently associated with the chip. Slot machines and other devices are arranged to interact with the gambling chips to read and write data from and into the chips. A central controller is connected to the slot machines and other devices that interact with the chips. The chips carry a display and/or an audio device to apprise players of the value currently associated with the chip.
US08029353B2	Gaming device methods and apparatus employing audio/video programming outcome presentation In a first aspect, a method (e.g., of operating a gaming device) is provided. The method includes the steps of (i) receiving audio/video content; (ii) associating a plurality of sets of outcome values with the audio/video content; (iii) determining a play session; (iv) determining which of the plurality of sets of outcome values to associate with the audio/video content for a duration of the play session, thereby determining an active set of outcome values; (v) determining a result of a game play during the session; (vi) selecting, based on the result, a value from the active set of outcome values; and (vii) outputting, as an indication of the result, the audio/video content and an indication of the selected value.
US08029348B2	Game apparatus and storage medium storing a game program A game apparatus includes a video game machine. A CPU provided in the video game machine controls movements, etc. of a player character operated by a player. There exist a predetermined number of player characters (e.g., four persons), and all of them are assigned to players depending on the number thereof. For example, four player characters are assigned to one player in a 1P mode, and two player characters each are assigned to two players in a 2P mode. While playing a game, each player may change formations of the four player characters or plunder a player character existing in an array belonging to another player.
US08029343B2	Vehicle body pressure relief system A battery pack cooling and body pressure relief system for a vehicle having a passenger cabin is disclosed. The system may include an intake air flow duct connected between the passenger cabin and the battery pack, and an air flow duct connected between the exhaust air outlet and the body pressure relief valve. The system may include a one-way cabin pressure relief vent connected to the air flow duct and configured to selectively allow for air flow into the air flow duct, and may include a duct pressure relief vent connected to the air flow duct and configured to selectively allow for air flow out of the air flow duct into the vehicle.
US08029339B2	Workpiece double-disc grinding apparatus and workpiece double-disc grinding method A workpiece double-disc grinding apparatus including a holder that supports a thin-plate-like workpiece from an outer periphery along a radial direction and is rotatable; a pair of static pressure support members that support the holder from both sides along an axial direction of the rotation thereof in a contactless manner based on a static fluid pressure; and a pair of grinding stones that simultaneously grind both surfaces of a workpiece supported by the holder, in which an interval between the holder and the static pressure support member is not greater than 50 μm, and the static pressure of the fluid that is not lower than 0.3 MPa. As a result, the workpiece double-disc grinding apparatus and a workpiece double-disc grinding method can stabilize a position of the holder, which can be a cause that degrades a nanotopography of the workpiece in the double-disc grinding for the workpiece.
US08029338B2	Grinding wheel for roll grinding application and method of roll grinding thereof Iron and steel rolls are ground to production quality requirements with a grinding wheel that requires minimal wheel wear compensation, profile error compensation or taper error compensation during the grinding process. The grinding wheel consists essentially of a superabrasive material selected from the group of natural diamond, synthetic diamond, cubic boron nitride, and mixtures thereof, in a bond system, for a grinding wheel with extended wheel life, and which removes minimum amount of stock off the roll to achieve desired roll geometry.
US08029332B2	Reuseable adhesive bra cups A reusable adhesive bra, comprising: a fabric bra having a pair of bra cups, each of the bra cups having a forwardly facing surface and a rearwardly facing surface; a pair of bra forms adapted to be matingly received in the pair of bra cups, each of the bra forms having a forwardly facing surface and rearwardly facing surface; each of the bra form forwardly facing surfaces adapted to be removably fastened to a respective one of the bra cup rearwardly facing surfaces of the fabric bra; each of the bra forms having a substantially centrally disposed hole therethrough; each of the bra form rearwardly facing surfaces having a reusable adhesive coating adapted to be removably fastened to a respective one of a user's breasts and having the substantially centrally disposed hole surrounding a respective one of the user's nipples, when the reusable adhesive bra is worn by the user.
US08029330B2	Doll with two conductor tethered remote control A remote control unit is electrically connected to a toy only by a two conductor cord. An electronic control unit located within the toy includes a signal generator and a controller for receiving the output signals and controlling at least two actions of the toy by detecting predetermined period variations in the received output signals, a first action enabled by a first predetermined period variation and a second action enabled by a second predetermined period variation. The remote control unit is electrically connected to the signal generator only by the cord and includes a switch array having at least a first switch in parallel with a second switch so that when the first switch is closed to cause the first predetermined period variation and when the second switch is closed to cause the second predetermined period variation.
US08029327B2	Semiconductor device and display device using a one-dimensional substrate and device fabricating method thereof A display device includes a first fiber having a silicon layer or an oxide layer, on which an active element is formed on the surface of the fiber and a second fiber forming a combined one-dimensional substrate together with the first fiber by being combined with the first fiber and having light emitting layers formed on a plurality of domains of the device. The first fiber and the second fiber are respectively drawn out from take-up jigs, are cut in necessary lengths and separated into plural fibers, and these plural first or second fibers are mounted in parallel with each other on a fixing jig. In this state, at least one-side elements of active elements and passive elements are formed on the first or second fibers.
US08029325B2	Connection unit and mounting process for such a connection unit The invention relates a connection unit comprising an insert provided a front part and a back part provided with longitudinal through holes. At least one longitudinal through hole in the front part of the insert coincides with a longitudinal through hole in the back part. The connection unit includes at least one contact extending through a longitudinal through hole in the front part and through a longitudinal through hole in the back part of the insert. A front portion of the contact is provided with a stop pressing on a stop in the longitudinal hole in the front part of the insert. A back portion of said contact is provided with retaining means which require said back portion be forced into the longitudinal hole in the back part of the insert. The invention also relates a mounting process of such a connection unit, as well as a connection kit.
US08029323B2	High power electrical interface connection An electrical connection includes a socket having a bore and a pin. The pin is allowed to move along an axis defined inwardly into the socket bore, and also to move radially relative to the axis. The socket bore has a generally conical portion. The pin has a generally conical face. The generally conical face of the pin is in contact with the generally conical portion of the socket. A motor system including such a connection is also disclosed. In another feature, an electrical connection includes a socket having a bore and a pin. The pin is allowed to move along an axis defined inwardly into the bore, and also to move radially relative to the axis. The pin is spring-biased into the bore such that an end of the pin seats on an end face of the bore.
US08029321B2	Electronic apparatus and connector According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a connector into which a plug is insertable. The connector includes a housing and a terminal portion provided in the housing. The housing includes an insertion opening part which exposes the terminal portion outside, a back part positioned at an end part opposite to the insertion opening part in the housing, and a side part provided between the insertion opening part and the back part and configured to oppose to the plug when the plug is inserted into the connector. The side part includes an inclined part which continues to the insertion opening part and is inclined such that a distance between the inclined part and the plug increases in a direction from the back part toward the insertion opening part to form a gap between the inclined part and the plug.
US08029317B2	Power plug system for submersible pump system A power plug system for use with a submersible pump. One embodiment comprises a male plug end, a female plug end, and a plurality of seals. The male plug end comprises a housing and a conductive sleeve. The housing receives an electrically conductive cable and conducts an electric current from the cable to the conductive sleeve. The female plug end comprises a housing, a conductive pin, and a female plug sleeve. The conductive sleeve is radially sealable within the female plug end through a plug end seal of the plurality of seals. The conductive sleeve and the conductive pin are conductively connectable. The female plug sleeve is radially sealable within a complementary plug end through a female plug sleeve seal of the plurality of seals. The conductive pin conductively connects to a conductive lead of the complementary plug end with insertion of the female plug sleeve therein.
US08029315B2	Coaxial cable connector with improved physical and RF sealing A coaxial cable connector for connecting a coaxial cable to an interface port and extending an RF shield therebetween is provided. The connector includes a connector body having a first end and a second end, a post, attached to the connector body, a threaded nut, rotatable with respect to the post and also axially movable with respect to the connector body between a first position and a second position, a biasing member, operable to move the nut, and a joint stop element, located to interact with the biasing member and introduce obstructive structure that impedes axial movement of the nut.
US08029313B2	Disposable needle electrode with identification, and alterable, connector interface An interconnect for connecting a needle electrode to a neurological testing device, the interconnect comprising: a needle-side connector and a device-side connector, wherein the needle-side connector and the device-side connector have complementary aspects so as to ensure that the correct needle electrode is used with a given neurological testing device.
US08029312B2	Plug-and-socket connector A plug-and-socket connector with a base strip for a printed circuit board connection and with a male connector having a socket housing projecting on its insertion side having a right-angle cross-sectional base form and opposite longitudinal sides corresponding to this base form and a front side between them. Insertion openings of plug receivers for contact elements are arranged in series in the longitudinal direction of the front side. The plug receivers are parallel extend to the front side and are permanently arranged on the base strip in an alignment corresponding to the insertion openings. A guide element for connecting the base strip to the male connector is provided in a mounted state of the male connector on the base strip between two insertion openings of the male connector and two plug receivers of the base strip corresponding to the two insertion openings.
US08029310B2	Connector In an electrical connector, a female housing is made to mate with a male housing. The female housing has guide ways each formed perpendicularly to a direction of mating of the male housing with the female housing. In the guide ways, a latch metal is disposed. The guide ways of the female housing respectively have opening portions from each of which the corresponding latch part of the latch metal is capable of projecting toward the male housing. When the male housing is inserted into the female housing, the latch parts are respectively projected from the opening portions of the female housing toward the male housing. The latch parts are respectively locked at predetermined inclined planes a formed on the male housing.
US08029308B2	Connector holding device A connector holding device includes a body-side connector attached to an apparatus body; a cord-side connector for fitting with the body-side connector, provided on the front end of a cord drawn out opposite to the side fitting with the body-side connector; and a connector holding member for holding the cord-side connector, having an opening formed with its cord side smaller than its side fitting with the body-side connector. The device attaches the connector holding member to the apparatus body in a state where the cord-side connector fits with the body-side connector.
US08029307B2	Swing fastener for securing 120V electrical connectors A male electrical connector comprising a housing having an abutment and a side. Male electrical contacts project from the abutment, the male electrical contacts are arranged for insertion into a standard 120 Volt female electrical connector. A fastener has a member. The member comprises a first end portion pivotally connected to the side of the housing and a second end portion defining an engaging surface. The engaging surface extends toward the male electrical contacts. The member is selectively pivotable between an engagement position wherein the engagement surface is positioned toward the male electrical contacts and a disengagement position wherein the engagement surface is positioned away from the electrical contacts.
US08029304B1	Portable storage device A portable storage device comprises a main body, a first connector electrically coupled to the main body and a second connector electrically coupled to the main body. The first connector and the second connector are respectively capable of connecting to an electronic device. The main body is capable of storing data transmitted from one electronic device to another. Thus, data can be transmitted among different electronic devices.
US08029300B2	Connector and system for connectors A connector and a system for connectors of a mobile device wherein the connector is angled, that is, wherein the connector includes an external interface for receiving an external connection and an internal interface configured for connection to a printed circuit board, wherein the internal interface is connected to the external interface and the internal interface is at a predetermined angle with respect to the external interface. In a mobile device, the external interface is at an angle to a main printed circuit board of the mobile device.
US08029295B2	Connector for an electrical circuit embedded in a composite structure According to one embodiment, a connector for a composite structure includes at least one conducting element that is coupled to a node of an electrical circuit embedded in a composite structure. The composite structure has two opposing surfaces in which the conducting element is disposed essentially between the surfaces of the composite structure.
US08029291B2	Flat plate folding type coil spring, pogo pin and manufacturing method A coil spring, a pogo pin having the coil spring, and manufacturing methods thereof are provided. The method for manufacturing a coil spring includes i) preparing a metal strip 200 with a periodically repeated U- or S-shape pattern, and ii) bending the metal strip 200 at one or more inward bending points 210 and at one or more outward bending point 220, which are formed on the metal strip 200, in opposite directions, the inward bending point and the outward bending point being spaced apart from each other. The coil spring and the pogo pin may be manufactured to be small in size and low in manufacturing costs as compared with conventional ones. Further, the coil spring and the pogo pin may provide a sufficient maximum range of motion and spring force of a probe.
US08029287B2	Riding simulation apparatus A riding simulation system includes a steering handle mechanism capable of being gripped by an operator for steering a front wheel of a motorcycle displayed on a display of a personal computer or the like. The system also includes a frame body for rotatably holding the steering handle mechanism, and a control unit mounted to the frame body for performing control based on the operation amounts of the steering handle mechanism, a clutch lever and a brake lever, with a circuit substrate being incorporated in the control unit and being connected to the detection units through connection cables. The riding simulation system provides a relatively small system with a control unit that is easily mounted to enhance maintenance and installation of system components.
US08029285B2	Implant, arrangement comprising an implant, and method for inserting said implant in bone tissue The present invention relates to a screw implant (1) for insertion into a bore hole (50) arranged in bone tissue, said implant having a cancellous portion (3), and a cortical portion (2) having an axial length such that, when installed in the bore hole (50), the engagement of said cortical portion (2) with the bone tissue will generally be confined to the cortical bone tissue layer (52). Said cortical portion (2) presents an outer surface which is threaded for accomplishing said engagement, and has an outer design such that, when being screwed into said bore hole under action of a screwing torque, said cortical portion (2) acts so as to increase the compression of the cortical bone tissue only, in essentially radial directions of the implant, resulting in a distinct increase of the screwing torque needed for screwing the implant (1). Said increase is usable as an indication that the implant (1) is in place or nearly in place in the bore hole.The invention also relates to an arrangement comprising an implant and a bore hole, and a method for insertion of an implant into a bore hole.
US08029282B2	Carry and drive device and method for dental implant and/or components thereof A carry and drive device and method for a dental implant or a dental implant component with a driving recess. The device includes a drive end with a configuration substantially matching the drive recess and with an interference surface frictionally engageable with a portion of the driving recess.
US08029279B2	Safety dental syringe An improved safety hypodermic syringe for dental applications which further includes first finger grip, preferably a thumb ring, on the end of the plunger, forward finger holders and a lock mechanism, which includes extending fingers for grasping the top of the reciprocal sliding sheath. The syringe assembly also includes a reciprocal tubular needle sheath disposed on the exterior of the syringe body and a latch mechanism engaging the syringe body and the sheath to latch the sheath in a needle-covering position after delivering contents from the syringe body. The fingers, preferably biased by a living hinge hold back the locking ring while the dentist administers anesthesia through the syringe. An internal spring, which engages the syringe body and the sheath, expands to move the sheath to cover the needle point. The spring is a non-uniform helical spring having multiple 360° turns with each turn uniformly spaced from adjacent turns.
US08029278B1	Intra-oral whitening device An intra-oral whitening device that has a mouthpiece in which is embedded a flexible circuit board and arrays of spaced apart lamps. The mouthpiece has a curvature. The lamps may be light emitting diodes that generate electromagnetic radiation, preferably in the white and blue light spectrum and the infrared and ultraviolet light spectrum. The arrays are positioned to expose the facial and lingual sides of the teeth for whitening when the mouthpiece is positioned to fit upper and lower rows of teeth to be whitened within accommodating recesses. The flexible circuit board is flexed to exhibit a curvature that follows a curvature of the mouthpiece.
US08029274B2	Convection oven with laminar airflow and method A convection oven with laminar airflow and/or moisture injection. A radial airflow fan is used to provide a circulating airflow that is substantially even and substantially turbulence free. The circulating airflow is provided to an oven chamber via a plurality of egress ports that rim a divider wall disposed between the oven chamber and a fan chamber. The airflow interleaves with a plurality of pans in the oven chamber to provide a laminar airflow. Moisture is injected into the circulating airflow either upstream of the fan or by flashing water onto the hot blades of the fan from either the low pressure side or the high pressure side of the fan.
US08029270B2	Method and device for blow-molding containers The invention relates to a method and a device for blow-moulding containers from preforms which have been previously heated in a heating section and consist of a thermoplastic material. After being heated, said preforms are transferred to a blowing device in which they are deformed in order to form containers under the action of a blowing pressure inside blow moulds. The blow moulds respectively consist of at least two blow-moulding segments. The preforms are transported together with the blow moulds at least along part of a path of a rotating blow wheel. The blow-moulding segments are braced in relation to each other during at least part of the blow-moulding process. At least one of the blow-moulding segments is pivoted about a rotational axis in order to perform opening and closing movements. Once a blowing station holding the blow-moulding segments is closed, at least one of the blow-moulding segments is then supported, at a distance from the rotational axis and independently from the other blow-moulding segment, in relation to a counter-bearing connected to the blow wheel. The supported blow-moulding segment is at least partially braced in relation to both the counter-bearing and the other blow-moulding segment.
US08029266B2	Mould member for moulding three-dimensional products, system and methods of manufacturing a mould member A mould member for moulding three-dimensional products from a mass of one or more food starting materials, which are suitable for consumption, in particular human consumption, comprises a body having a porous structure and a plurality of mould cavities, which mould cavities each have a mould cavity wall defined by the body and an opening in a surface of the body, wherein the body comprises at least one essentially fluid tight barrier.
US08029264B2	Injection molding machine An injection molding machine includes supporting plates, molds coupled to the supporting plates, and a coupling guide device to guide the coupling of the molds and the supporting plates. The coupling guide device includes a first coupling guide recess and a first coupling guide protrusion provided at center portions of the molds and the supporting plates so as to be coupled to each other, and a second coupling guide recess and a second coupling guide protrusion provided at the molds and the supporting plates, spaced apart from the first coupling guide recess and the first coupling guide protrusion, so as to be coupled to each other. The second coupling guide recess is formed lengthwise in a direction toward a periphery from the center portions of the molds and the supporting plates.
US08029263B1	Low pressure vacuum resin infusion system A mold assembly includes a support table mounted for rotation within a vacuum chamber. A plurality of hollow part molds is radially disposed about an axis of rotation of the support table. Each part mold has fiber architecture disposed between an inflatable bladder and internal walls of the part mold. A first motor rotates the support table and resin is urged by centrifugal force to flow along the length of each part mold until the fiber architecture is thoroughly impregnated with resin. A second motor spins each part mold about an axis of rotation of the part mold to ensure that the resin migrates radially outwardly relative to the interior wall surface of each part mold. The resulting product is a monolithic, seamless part having no voids.
US08029260B2	Apparatus for extruding cellulose fibers An apparatus is disclosed for extruding cellulose fibers. The apparatus includes a first member, a second member and a third member all secured together. Multiple nozzles extend outward from the first member and each is designed to direct an aqueous cellulose solution therethrough. As the aqueous solution is extruded, it is accentuated and accelerated by pressurized gas flowing through the first member and the second member and out through first openings formed in the third member. The pressurized gas at least partially surrounds each nozzle and shelters the molten filaments extruded therefrom. The third member also has multiple second openings formed therethrough which are also connected to a source of pressurized gas. The pressurized gas streams exiting each of the second openings function to keep each of the molten filaments from contacting an adjacent molten filament.
US08029256B2	Laterally independently operated column-equipped vulcanizer A laterally independently operated column-equipped vulcanizer comprises two (right and left) die opening and closing devices (12A, 12B) disposed to be operable independently of each other, the die opening and closing devices having upper die mounting members (17a, 17b) corresponding to lower die mounting members (13a, 13b) installed on a base plate (11), the upper die mounting members being supported in an ascendable and descendable manner on right and left paired columns (18a, 18b) erected on the base plate. The right and left paired columns throughout the two die opening and closing devices are arranged in V-configuration as viewed in plan. Loaders (22a, 22b) capable of carrying green tires GT into the die opening and closing devices are disposed on the side of the columns narrowly spaced from each other in the lateral direction among the columns arranged in V-configuration. Unloaders (23a, 23b) capable of carrying vulcanized tires T out of the die opening and closing devices are disposed on the side of the columns widely spaced from each other in the lateral direction among the columns arranged in V-configuration. Thus, the entire vulcanizer can be rendered even more compact.
US08029252B2	Electric power connection for electrically assisted turbocharger A turbocharger includes a compressor housing (2) for accommodating a compressor wheel (5) drivable by an electric motor (21) and an electric motor (21) for driving a compressor wheel (5) accommodated in a compressor housing, the electric motor being supplied with electric power through at least one motor plug connector (12). The turbocharger further comprises a turbine housing (4), a center housing (3) for accommodating a shaft (6). The compressor wheel is driven by the turbine wheel (8) via the shaft (16) and can additionally be driven by the electric motor, where the compressor housing further includes at least one main power plug connector (16) disposed on an axial side of the compressor housing, facing the electric motor.
US08029250B2	Variable volume, shape memory actuated insulin dispensing pump A portable pumping system provides insulin or other drugs to a user. A shape memory element is used to actuate the pump and an intelligent system controls the actuator in order to minimize stresses within the system and provide accurate and reliable dosage delivery. The control system utilizes various types of feedback to monitor and optimize the position of the pumping mechanisms. Physical design aspects also minimize stress and the combination of the physical design aspects and the intelligent operation of the system results in a lightweight and cost effective pump that may be used in a disposable fashion if desired.
US08029249B2	Metering pump assembly The invention relates to a metering pump assembly for admixing a fluid reduction agent into an exhaust gas flow with a metering pump for delivering the reduction agent and with a premixing device, in which in a mixing region, the reduction agent delivered by the metering pump is mixed with a pressurized gas, wherein the metering pump assembly comprises a pump head with a central plate in which at least the metering pump and the premixing device are arranged.
US08029248B2	Integrated coolant pumping module An integrated pumping module for use in a thermal management system, for example for a fuel cell. The integrated pumping module includes a diverting or mixing valve closely coupled to a pump element, such as the volute chamber of a centrifugal pump. The valve chamber and the pump chamber are closely and directly coupled through a connecting passage so as to minimize pressure drop as a liquid coolant passes through the connecting passage from the valve chamber to the pump chamber. A bypass inlet and outlet opening are provided in the valve chamber to permit all or a portion of the coolant flow to be diverted to a radiator once the coolant reaches a predetermined temperature. The integrated pumping module may also be provided with a filter housing into which a portion of the coolant flow may be diverted.
US08029244B2	Fluid flow amplifier A by-pass fluid flow amplifier which contains a primary nozzle and a primary profile for discharging compressed air into a conduit of the air amplifier and entraining ambient air in the process. A secondary nozzle and a secondary profile for discharging compressed air into the conduit of the air amplifier towards the rear that assists the primary nozzle such as to allow consistent fluid wall attachment of the compressed air and the entrained air caused by the primary nozzle and the primary profile. The secondary nozzle increases the total flow of the amplifier and prohibits the total flow from traveling towards the center of the conduit where flow reversal and turbulence are likely to occur.
US08029243B2	Locking plate fast fastening ceiling fan blades A locking plate fast fastening ceiling fan blades is provided where several nicks are formed, and a thru hole is formed communicating with the open side of one of the nicks. A wedge unit is provided in the thru hole of the locking plate. Thus, when a blade is installed on the blade rack, only the blade is set around the pillars of the blade rack, then the locking plate is made to wedge to the pillar of blade rack, and the wedge unit is made to stay close to and pass through the pillar in the nick communicating with the thru hole for fast and exact completion of fixing of the blade onto the blade rack.
US08029241B2	Wind turbine rotor blade with aerodynamic winglet A wind turbine includes a plurality of rotor blades, with each blade having a root portion connected to a rotor hub and an airfoil portion extending radially outward from the rotor hub. The airfoil portion further includes a main foil section and a winglet pivotally connected to the main foil section so as to pivot from an in-line position wherein the rotor blade has a first sweep length to an articulated position wherein the rotor blade has a second sweep length. In the articulated position, the winglet may pivot to not more than 90 degrees relative to a longitudinal axis of the main foil section. A deployable sleeve may be connected to the winglet so as to extend between the winglet and the main foil section in the articulated position of the winglet. The sleeve is stowable within either or both of the main foil section or the winglet in the in-line position of the winglet.
US08029239B2	Rotor for a wind energy turbine and method for controlling the temperature inside a rotor hub A rotor for a wind energy turbine includes a hub defining an inner space and at least one rotor blade defining an inner space and having a tip and a root attached to the hub. The inner spaces of the hub and the at least one rotor blade are in fluid communication. The rotor further includes air flow means for causing air to flow out of the hub and into the at least one rotor blade.
US08029235B2	Shape detail of a piston to avoid jamming within a distorted bore A piston (21; 104) to be mounted inside a cylindrical bore (46; 117) has a cylindrical surface (32; 114) provided with at least one axially extending deepening (31; 116) for accommodating a thermal distortion of the cylindrical bore (46; 117). Preferably, the piston is used in a piston valve as a valve control member or turbine as a variable nozzle control member.
US08029234B2	Systems and methods involving aerodynamic struts Systems and methods involving struts are provided. In this regard, a representative system includes a gas turbine engine defining a gas flow path. The gas turbine engine comprises a strut extending into the gas flow path. The strut has an interior operative to receive pressurized air, an outer surface, and ports communicating between the outer surface and the interior of the strut, the ports are operative to receive the pressurized air from the interior and emit the pressurized air into the gas flow path such that an effective aerodynamic length of the strut along the gas flow path is increased.
US08029233B2	Wind turbine and method for controlling a wind turbine The disclosure relates to a method for controlling a wind turbine including a wind rotor shaft, a rotary encoder for measuring the azimuth angle of the wind rotor shaft, wherein the wind turbine further includes at least one impulse generating device including at least one first part and at least one second part, wherein the at least one first part is rotating with the wind rotor shaft and the least one second part is disposed stationary with respect to the wind rotor shaft such that the at least one first part moves by the at least one second part; wherein the method includes: encoding the azimuth angle of the wind rotor shaft by the rotary encoder into a rotation value; generating an impulse when one of the at least one first part moves by one of the at least one second part of the impulse generating device; comparing the rotation value at the time of a detected impulse with a reference value.
US08029231B2	Fan track liner assembly A fan track liner within a rotor blade assembly for a gas turbine engine comprises a radially inner casing liner member and a radially outer casing liner member adjacent to the radially inner casing liner member. A septum is interposed between the radially inner and radially outer casing liner members and bonds together the radially inner and radially outer casing liner members. The septum includes predetermined weakened regions which permit penetration of the septum in use by a rotor blade in the event of impact of the radially inner casing liner member by a detached rotor blade. Assembly otherwise capable of resisting ice shed from the blade impacting the same region.
US08029228B2	Cable hoisting apparatus A cable hoisting apparatus for loading and unloading of containers with respect to vehicles including a modular assembly allowing the apparatus to be easily attached or detached with respect to the vehicle. This modular assembly includes a subframe directly attachable detachably to the vehicle which includes a reeve cylinder and a lifting cylinder mounted therewithin. A top frame is included which is pivotally movably mounted to the subframe. The lifting cylinder powers pivotal movement of the top frame. Loading and unloading of the container is powered by the reeve cylinder. The reeve cylinder moves a shoe within a shoe track which extends or contracts a cable attached to a container which is positioned about a plurality of sheaves one of which is attached to the slideable shoe. A positively engaging locking construction is included defined between the subframe and the top frame for positively retaining the container.
US08029227B2	Dust resistant load port apparatus and mini-environment system In a load port apparatus, a clearance is formed between an inner circumferential surface of an opening of the chamber and an outer circumferential surface of a door. The area of the clearance between the plate and the opening portion on a plane flush with an interior side of the chamber is larger than the area of the clearance between the plate and the opening portion on a plane flush with the exterior of the chamber. A fan located at an upper side of the chamber generates a first flow of air in the downward direction. The clearance generates a second flow of air from the interior of the chamber to the exterior of the chamber. The second flow of air is generated by the difference in the area of the interior cross section of the clearance and area of the exterior cross section of the clearance.
US08029221B2	Cage nut assembly A cage nut assembly includes a cage, a nut and a heat sensitive adhesive. The cage includes a plurality of walls defining an internal chamber and an open end. An opening is formed through one of the walls. The nut is secured to the cage within the internal chamber. The nut includes a threaded channel exposed through the opening. The heat sensitive adhesive adhesively secures the nut to the cage within the internal chamber. The nut breaks away from the cage within the internal chamber when heat is applied to the heat sensitive adhesive.
US08029220B2	Blind rivet assembly A blind rivet assembly for securing workpieces having aligned bores with the workpieces having an open surface at an open side and a blind surface at a blind side, the blind rivet assembly including a tubular shell having an enlarged shell head adapted to be in engagement with the open surface of the workpieces, a stem having an elongated shank with a stem head at the far end of the shank and having gripping means at the opposite end adapted to be gripped by an installation tool for application of an axial pulling force, and a placement ring having an near end and a far end, and having a pre-installation orientation and a post-installation orientation, wherein in the pre-installation orientation the placement ring is disposed around a ring receiving portion of the elongated shank, and the post-installation orientation is created by axially pulling the stem towards the open side of the workpieces with an axial pulling force that forces the placement ring into a through bore which causes the shell to deform outwards and form a blind head, and wherein upon continued axial pulling of the stem, the stem progressively moves into the shell until the stem encounters a stop shoulder, whereupon material of the stop shoulder is moved into a locking portion to arrest further movement of the stem, and whereupon increased axial force on the stem shears a portion of the stem on the open side at a shearable break-groove.
US08029219B2	Interlocking load dividers for utility vehicle cargo box Interlocking load dividers for a utility vehicle cargo box include a primary load divider with a plurality of notches in its top edge, and one or more secondary load dividers slidably interlocked to the primary load divider. Each secondary load divider has a downwardly facing L-hook interlocking with one of the notches such that the secondary load divider is perpendicular to the primary load divider.
US08029218B2	Stacked cargo securing device and method of use A load securing device for stacked cargo comprises a body member having contact surfaces adapted to engage a side portion of a cargo item that is stacked on a pair of each of a pair of stacked cargo items. One end of a flexible member such as a strap is attached to the body member. The flexible member extends through a space created between the stacked items or the stacked items and a carrier surface, with its other end being secured to a carrier supporting the stacked items. Optimally, and when expecting forces to be applied to both sides of the stacked items, a load securing device is placed on either side of the stacked items so that forces arising during the transport of the stacked items are resisted in both directions.
US08029216B2	Chuck and article having mating features to prevent axial slippage A chuck and an article are configured such that the article is releasably secured in the chuck. One of the chuck and article is provided with a crest and the other with a trough. When the article is secured to the chuck, the crest enters the trough so as help prevent slippage of one with respect to the other. The chuck may include a receiver having a tapered bore, a collet having a complementarily tapered outer surface, and a nut configured to be threadingly secured to a forward end of the receiver; the article may be a shank, such as a tool shank. An inner surface of the collet may be provided with a crest which is configured to fit into a trough formed on the shank. In a secured position, the shank is accommodated in the bore of the collect with the crest of the collet at least partially occupying the trough of the shank, thereby preventing movement of the shank relative to the collet, which itself is accommodated in the bore of the receiver.
US08029211B2	Adaptor for setting a self-drilling, chemically anchored, fastening element An adaptor for setting a self-drilling, chemically anchorable, fastening element (5) includes a rotor member (21) rotatably supported in the adaptor housing (36) and having at its opposite ends (23,25) respectively, a coupling section (24) for connecting the rotor member (21) with a drilling tool (8) for joint rotation therewith, and a coupling receptacle (26) for fixedly receiving a free end (6) of the fastening element (5). Support elements (52,53) are provided in one of two housing parts (41,51) for rotatably supporting the rotor member (21). Sealing elements (42), which are provided in another housing part (41), for a connection channel section (32) that connects a connection opening (37) in the housing (36) for the ejection medium (4) with a feeding channel (31) in the rotor member (21).
US08029210B2	Methods and apparatus for installation of VIV suppression during installation of marine pipeline Methods and apparatus for the installation of VIV suppression during the S-Lay installation of a subsea pipeline. A locking member will be interposed between a pipe and a fairing rotatably mounted on the pipe, sufficient to bias the fairing against rotating. Upon marine application, the locking member will degrade, thereby releasing the fairing.
US08029209B2	Load absorbing device A load absorbing device or other resilient device, such as a fender, bumper, or rub rail, for protecting an object, such as a dock or boat, from an impact force delivered by another object includes a leaf spring portion connected to the object. The leaf spring portion includes a fixed end and a free end operable to transmit to the object a fraction of the impact force and is designed to collapse upon loading with the impact force to thereby absorb energy that would otherwise be transferred directly to the object. In a preferred embodiment, the leaf spring portion is extruded of a high-strength abrasion-resistant plastic material having a low coefficient of friction, such as ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The leaf spring portion may include multiple mounting holes sized to receive mounting fasteners for rigidly connecting the device to the object.
US08029207B2	Brush head assembly with a three-position control valve A brush head device for cleaning an object with a cleaning fluid. The device includes a body assembly having an input port and a reservoir. The input port is configured to receive the cleaning fluid. The reservoir is configured to collect the cleaning fluid received by the input port. A valve assembly is disposed in the body member between the input port and the reservoir. The valve assembly includes a plurality of discrete flow control channels configured to regulate a flow of cleaning fluid between the input port and the reservoir. The valve assembly is actuatable between an OFF position and a plurality of discrete flow control positions. Each of the plurality of discrete flow control positions corresponds to one of the plurality of discrete flow control channels. A brush member is coupled to the body assembly and in fluidic communication with the reservoir. The brush member is configured to apply the cleaning fluid to the object.
US08029203B2	Printer for recording images on a recording paper and feeding the paper backwards A printing device provided with a conveyer roller pair for holding sheet paper drawn out from a recording paper roll to feed the sheet paper forward or backward. The device includes a feeding roller pair disposed between the recording paper roll and the conveyer roller pair for drawing out the recording paper and feeding it to the conveyer roller pair and a color recording unit disposed downstream of the conveyer roller pair in the direction of conveyance of the recording paper for recording a color image on the recording paper that is being moved backward. A guide unit with pivotable guide member is disposed between the feeding roller pair and the conveyer roller pair for bending and guides the recording paper in an arc-shape at an acute angle. A reservation space is provided outside of the arc-shaped recording paper guiding path for accommodating the sagged recording paper therein.
US08029195B2	Vehicular-wheel bearing assembly There is provided a vehicular-wheel bearing assembly. The vehicular-wheel bearing assembly includes an inner shaft (1), an outer ring (2) provided around the inner shaft (1), and two rows of balls (3aand 3b) provided between the inner shaft (1) and the outer ring (2) in angular contact with the inner shaft (1) and the outer ring (2). An annular raceway member (4) with a curved section that is a separate member from the inner shaft (1) and the outer ring (2) and has a raceway surface for the rolling element is provided on an outer peripheral surface (11) of the inner shaft (1) and an inner peripheral surface (12) of the outer ring (2).
US08029193B2	Guide rail and method for manufacturing same A guide rail and method of forming a guide rail is provided. The guide rail includes a base rail having a groove with a plurality of fingers formed therein and a race insert mounted in the groove. The race insert has at least two different load directions. The fingers extend generally non-parallel to the different load directions. The fingers are preferably deformed into a state of bending.
US08029192B2	Flux bag A bag comprises a sheath which includes a first wall portion and a second wall portion joined longitudinally by gusseted sidewalls portions which define the bag volume. The sheath has gusseted regions having a first sheath thickness and a non-gusseted region between the gusseted regions having a second different sheath thickness. The bag also includes a first handle disposed on the exterior surface of the first wall portion at the first end of the bag and a second handle disposed on the exterior surface of the first wall portion at the second end of the bag. The first handle and second handle have outer regions having a first sheet thickness and an inner region having a second different sheet thickness. The sum of the first sheath thickness and the first sheet thickness is equal to the sum of the second sheath thickness and the second sheet thickness.
US08029189B2	Computer and method of monitoring wind resistance changes The present invention relates to a computer and a method of monitoring wind resistance changes. The computer comprises a wind resistance change monitoring device, the device comprising: one or more first temperature sensors, located at one or more positions inside the computer where an actual ambient temperature can be monitored, and configured to sense one or more ambient temperatures as first temperature; one or more heaters, located at the front end of a cooling duct of the computer, and configured to work at a rated power; one or more second temperature sensors, located corresponding to the one or more heaters, and configured to sense one or more temperatures of the one or more heaters as second temperature; and a control module configured to determine whether the wind resistance of the computer has changed or not based on a comparison of the relationship between the first and second temperature with the relationship between a predetermined ambient temperature and a predetermined heater temperature.
US08029188B2	Temperature sensor for automobile A temperature sensor for an automobile is disclosed. The temperature sensor includes a conductive sensor body including a bottom wall, an insulative connector housing coupled to the sensor body, first and second terminals provided inside the connector housing, which have lower contact portions, a ceramic element mounted near the bottom wall in the sensor body for detecting temperature, which has lower and upper electrode surfaces, and a connecting disc mounted on the ceramic element, which has lower and upper connecting surfaces. The lower electrode surface of the ceramic element is attached to the bottom wall by a conductive adhesive layer and grounded to the sensor body. The upper electrode surface of the ceramic element is electrically connected to the lower contact portion of the first terminal through the lower and upper connecting surfaces of the connecting disc. The lower contact portion of the second terminal contacts the sensor body.
US08029187B2	Apparatus, system and method for high resolution identification with temperature dependent resistive device A temperature measuring and identification (TMID) device obtains identification information and temperature information of a connected device having a temperature sensing circuit (TSC). The TSC includes a temperature sensing element (TSE) connected in parallel with a voltage clamping network (VCN) that limits the voltage across the TSE to an identification voltage within an identification voltage range when the voltage is greater than or equal to a lower voltage of the identification voltage range. When a voltage below the lower range is applied to the TSC, the VCN appears as an open circuit and the resistance of the TSC corresponds to temperature. A translation circuit within the TMID shifts TSC voltages within the identification voltage range to a normalization voltage range. Accordingly, voltages corresponding to temperature as well as voltages corresponding to identification are within the normalization voltage range. As a result, the resolution of a voltage sensing device used for measuring the temperature and identification voltages is maximized. In addition, the translation circuit maintains a minimal current during a rest state. For cost or other concerns, a first TSC may omit the VCN to provide a maximum identification voltage and other TSCs may include VCNs with lower identification voltage ranges.
US08029186B2	Method for thermal characterization under non-uniform heat load What is disclosed is an apparatus for determining the cooling characteristics of a cooling device used for transferring heat from an electronic device. The apparatus comprising a cooling device thermally coupled to a heat pipe. The heat pipe having an exposed surface for the selective application of heat thereon. A localized heat source is selectively applied to at least one region of the exposed surface. The heat source preferably capable of being varied both positionally relative to the exposed surface and in heat intensity. A heat shield is preferably positioned around the exposed surface of the heat pipe to isolate the operational cooling device from the localized heat source. A temperature detector repeatedly measures a temperature distribution across the exposed surface while the cooling device is in a heat transfer mode. The temperature distribution is then used to thermally characterize the cooling device.
US08029183B2	Apparatus for mixing bone cement A method and apparatus is disclosed for forming a mixed material. For example, two components of a bone cement may be positioned in the apparatus and mixed under vacuum. An increase in pressure on one side of a movable piston can move the material for ease of access and reducing voids in the mixed material.
US08029180B2	Light unit, backlight, frontlight, and display device A light unit, a backlight, a front light, and a display device, have a structure such that an uneven luminance generated in display is suppressed by radiating light in a sufficient amount even to an end portion of a display region, thereby uniformly radiating light in a sufficient amount to the entire display region, without a complicated structure. The light unit includes a light guide plate and a plurality of light sources, the plurality of light sources being arranged in a line to oppose at least one side surface of the light guide plate, wherein one or more light sources at at least one terminal among the plurality of light sources are positioned outside a lateral edge of a display region, and such a light unit is preferably used in a side-light type backlight or front light.
US08029178B2	Fiber optic tail light system A fighting system comprising: a light harness; and a fiber optic light pipe having a body with an outer diameter, and a jacket that substantially covers the entire length thereof between a proximal and distal end about the outer diameter; where said proximal end is cooperatively connected to said light harness; said second end is cooperatively connected to a diverging lens yielding an output of light.
US08029177B2	Lighting device with at least one illuminant unit for vehicles, preferably motor vehicles A lighting device with at least one lighting unit for vehicles, preferably motor vehicles. The lighting device comprises at least one illuminant unit with one circuit board, and with at least one illuminant attached to the circuit board, connected to the conductive paths of the circuit board through contacts. The illuminant is positioned at the front face of the circuit board in order to configure the lighting device so that it can be manufactured simply and economically in a particularly flat configuration and in any curved shape. The lighting device is advantageously used in vehicles, preferably in motor vehicles.
US08029175B2	Vehicle lighting apparatus A lighting apparatus is disposed near an upper end edge of a license plate on a rear side of a vehicle. The lighting apparatus includes a license plate lamp which illuminates the license plate with visible light, and an infrared irradiation lamp which irradiates a region behind the vehicle with infrared light. The license plate lamp includes a first light emitting device which emits the visible light and is supported on a rear surface of a first support plate. The infrared irradiation lamp includes a second light emitting device which emits the infrared light and is supported on a lower surface of a second support plate. A lower end of the first support plate is coupled to a rear end of the second support plate. When seen from behind the vehicle, the license plate lamp is disposed directly above the infrared irradiation lamp.
US08029172B2	System and method for illumination of levitating bodies A system is provided for illuminating a levitating body, the system may include a base that has a light source, and a body that levitates over the base. The levitating body may have a bottom surface and an upper surface. The bottom surface may have at least one aperture to receive light from the stationary body. The levitating body may have internal transmissive surfaces to reflect and scatter the light throughout the levitating body to produce visual decorative displays.
US08029170B2	Lamp with light emitting diodes using alternating current Provided is an LED lamp for AC power. The LED lamp for the AC power can replace a related art halogen lamp. Since the bottom of an LED substrate for AC power is allowed to directly contact an inner upper surface serving as a substrate base of a main body with a built-in heatsink where heatsink pins are formed in an entire outer peripheral surface, so that heatsink operation of heat generated while the LED for the AC power operates is maximized. A reflection funnel whose inner surface is entirely chrome-deposited extends on the upper end of the main body with the built-in heatsink to reflect light while the LED for the AC power is lit, so that the intensity of illumination can be enhanced.
US08029164B2	LED light recycling cavity with integrated optics A light emitting diode light source with mirrored surfaces is formed on a planar substrate which, when folded, forms both a light recycling cavity and an optical taper at the end of the light recycling cavity.
US08029163B2	LED unit An LED unit includes an LED and an envelope receiving the LED therein. The envelope includes a bottom substrate fixing the LED thereon, a sidewall angling upwardly from the substrate and surrounding the LED, and a lens formed in the sidewall and located above the LED. The lens has two aspheric surfaces with different curvatures to collect light deflected at a small angle relative to an axis of the LED into a parallel pattern. The sidewall has upper and lower conical inner circumferences and a parabolic outer circumference to direct light deflected at a large angle relative to the axis of the LED into parallel pattern. The lower inner circumference of the sidewall has an angle of 2π/5 to 13π/30, and the upper inner circumference of the sidewall has an angle of 5π/36 to 7π/36.
US08029162B2	Embedded LED light source A light source is disclosed. For example, the light source includes an enclosure forming an internal volume, the enclosure having at least one side, a top and a bottom. At least one light emitting diode (LED) may be deployed within the internal volume of the enclosure. Optionally, an optic may be coupled to each one of the at least one LEDs. The light source also includes a potting compound surrounding said at least one LED and substantially filling said internal volume or covering said top of said enclosure and substantially sealing said enclosure.
US08029160B2	Illumination device having bi-convex lens assembly and coaxial concave reflector An illumination device includes a light source positioned on an illumination axis, a lens assembly having at least two biconvex lenses disposed on the illumination axis, and a reflector having a reflecting surface enclosing the lens assembly. The light source emits a first group of light beams which directly impinge of the lens assembly, and a second group of light beams which directly impinge on the reflector. The second group of light beams being reflected by the reflecting surface such that they surround the first group of light beams after being refracted by the lens assembly, without such second group of light beams impinging on the lens assembly.
US08029159B2	Light source device having different color temperature rotating lighting modules A light source device capable of switching to different color temperature planes includes a cooler, a first lighting module, a second lighting module and a rotating mechanism. The cooler has a first surface and a second surface formed at one side of the first surface. The first and second surfaces are non-coplanar to each other. The first lighting module is arranged onto the first surface by adhesion and the second lighting module is arranged onto the second surface by adhesion. The first lighting module and the second lighting module can radiate light of different color temperatures respectively. The rotating mechanism, which is connected to the cooler, provides a rotating operation to the cooler. When the first surface or the second surface is rotated for radiating light, the first lighting module or the second lighting module can emit an illumination of different colors.
US08029158B2	System in package high power highly efficient diode lamp A system in package, high power, and highly efficient diode lamp is provided. The diode lamp includes a heat-conducting/heat-dissipating module, a LED light module, an optical module, and a control circuit module. The heat-conducting/heat-dissipating module includes a heat-conducting device and at least one heat-dissipating fin. The LED light module is disposed on a flat portion of the heat-conducting device. The optical module focuses the light emitted by the LED light module. The control circuit module is used to control the LED light module. When the diode lamp is electrically connected to a power supply, the control circuit module selectively controls the LED light module to emit the light. The heat generated during the operation of the LED light module is conducted from the flat portion of the heat-conducting device to the at least one heat-dissipating fin, and then it is dissipated by the at least one heat-dissipating fin.
US08029154B2	Solar-powered light pole and LED light fixture A solar-powered street lighting system includes a flexible panel of amorphous photovoltaic adhesively connected to the outside surface of a light pole, at least one battery to be charged by the flexible panel, and an LED light fixture extending from the upper region of the pole. A controller controls the charging of the battery by the flexible panel, the battery powering the LED light fixture, and a minimum battery voltage by dimming the LED light fixture during at least a portion of nighttime to prevent excess battery drain.
US08029143B2	Illumination system An illumination system for providing an illumination beam to a light valve is provided. The illumination system includes a light source, a light integration rod, a color wheel, a first focusing unit and a second focusing unit. The light source is capable of generating the illumination beam, and the light integration rod is disposed on the transmission path of the illumination beam. The first focusing unit is disposed between the integration rod and the color wheel and is capable of focusing the illumination beam onto the color wheel. The second focusing unit is disposed between the color wheel and the light valve and is capable of focusing the illumination beam onto the light valve.
US08029141B2	Image display apparatus that controls luminance of a partial area of each pixel to be below threefold of an average luminance value of the entire pixel The image display apparatus includes a two-dimensional light modulation device for modulating light emitted from a laser light source, a display surface for displaying the modulated light, an optical pixel aperture enlarging member for distributing the luminance of the laser light while introducing the laser light to apertures of pixels of the modulation device; and a display pixel aperture enlarging portion for optically enlarging the modulated light by the apertures of the pixels of the modulation device corresponding to pixels of an image to be displayed. The luminance of a partial area of each pixel of the image displayed on the display surface is controlled to be below the threefold of an average value of the luminance in the area of the entire pixel by the optical pixel aperture enlarging member and the display pixel aperture enlarging portion, accomplishing speckle noise reduction and improved light utilization efficiency.
US08029138B2	Dynamic peripheral stimuli for visual field testing and therapy A method is provided for stimulating a motion-detecting visual pathway of a subject. A subject is tasked with fixating on a central stimulus displayed on a computer-driven display. While the subject is visually fixated, a peripheral stimulus is presented on the display. At least one characteristic of the peripheral stimulus is altered so as to trigger the motion-sensitive visual pathway of the subject. The altered characteristic may be the spatial locus, size, pattern, luminosity or hue of the stimulus. The altered and base stimulus may be alternately displayed in a cyclical manner to sustain the display of a dynamic peripheral stimulus. While alternately displaying the base and altered stimulus, the subject's response, indicative of their detection of the stimulus, may be monitored and recorded. The dynamic peripheral stimulus may be, for example, a repetitively translating object, or a repetitively blinking object.
US08029135B2	Polarized and abrasion-resistant optical article and process for manufacturing thereof The invention relates to polarized and abrasion-resistant article comprising: a) a polarized layer applied to a substrate, said polarized layer including an oriented liquid crystal polymer layer (LCP) including at least one dichroic dye, said liquid crystal layer being coated on a photo-orientation layer, and b) an abrasion-resistant coating applied to the polarized layer on said substrate. The invention also relates to a process for manufacturing said articles, and to the use of the above-mentioned article for the manufacturing of optic glasses or lenses.
US08029133B2	Eyeglasses that are assembled easily and quickly A pair of eyeglasses include a frame having two endpieces and two temples each pivotally mounted on the respective endpiece of the frame. Each of the endpieces has a T-shaped receiving slot, and each of the temples has a T-shaped retaining flange mounted in the receiving slot of the respective endpiece. The retaining flange of each of the temples has a pivot shaft pivotally mounted in the receiving slot of the respective endpiece. Thus, a user only needs to rotate each of the temples relative to the respective endpiece to attach each of the temples to the respective endpiece so that the eyeglasses are assembled easily and quickly. In addition, each of the temples is combined with the respective endpiece without needing co-operation of any screw member and hand tool.
US08029132B1	3D eyeglasses with detachable front eyeglasses frame The present invention relates to 3D eyeglasses with a detachable front eyeglasses frame, including: eyeglasses arms having a coupling rim disposed in the middle portion thereof and attaching and detaching protrusions formed at the center portion of the coupling rim; the detachable front eyeglasses frame having lens insertion holes formed on both sides thereof, fixing protrusions formed at each of the upper and lower sides of the lens insertion holes on the rear surface thereof, and attaching and detaching grooves formed at the center portion of the rear surface thereof; and 3D eyeglasses lenses adapted to be inserted into the lens insertion holes of the detachable front eyeglasses frame.
US08029131B2	Invertible eyewear The present invention discloses glasses comprising an invertible nose bridge and invertible temples. The glasses can be worn in two manners by rotating the glasses 180 degrees in the plane of the lens or lenses. The lenses are asymmetrical along an axis which is drawn through the nose bridge. The invention additionally discloses an invertible nose bridge characterized in that it comprises two recesses into which the nose fits.
US08029130B2	Hand-held printer with capping device A hand-held printer comprises an elongate body defining an ink ejection slot through which ink is ejected; an ink cartridge received in the body and defining a plurality of ink reservoirs storing respective types of ink; a movement sensor for sensing movement of the printhead module along print media; a printhead module in fluid communication with respective ink reservoirs, the printhead module including a printhead for ejecting ink through the ink ejection slot in accordance with the movement sensed by the movement sensor; and a capping device movable to expose or cover the printhead, the capping device including an elastomeric pad at an end thereof positioned to be in contact with nozzles of the printhead when the capping device covers the printhead.
US08029127B2	Image recording apparatus and inkjet apparatus for double-side recording The inkjet apparatus for double-side recording, comprises: liquid ejection heads which are disposed on either side of a recording medium and face each other across the recording medium, the liquid ejection heads ejecting liquid onto recording surfaces of the recording medium; conveyance devices which hold the recording medium in such a manner that a normal of each of the recording surfaces is substantially horizontal, and convey the recording medium in a horizontal direction in such a manner that the recording surfaces face ejection surfaces of the liquid ejection heads; and end supporting devices which support an upper end and a lower end of the recording medium, as the conveyance devices convey the recording medium in a horizontal direction while holding the recording medium in such a manner that the normal of each of the recording surfaces is substantially horizontal.
US08029125B2	Variable rate fluid film release in an ink jet printer An apparatus for ink jet printing, as well as corresponding method and system are described. The apparatus includes a source of fluid film, a fluid film metering roller supported for contact with the source of fluid film, a variable speed drive arranged to effect movement of the fluid film metering roller in an endless path at different surface velocities, a donor roller supported in contact with the fluid film metering roller, an ink jet printhead configured to emit ink, and a print assembly rotatably supported in the apparatus, the print assembly having a print assembly surface coupled to the donor roller, the print assembly configured to receive ink from the ink jet printhead and produce an image on media using the ink, wherein the donor roller is configured to convey the fluid film from the fluid film metering roller to the print assembly surface at various rates depending on a surface velocity of the fluid film metering roller, and at least one of the following: an amount of fluid film left on the donor roller, a film thickness of the fluid film on the fluid film metering roller, and a speed ratio between the fluid film metering roller and the donor roller, wherein the variable speed drive is operative independently of the print assembly.
US08029122B2	Recording ink, inkjet recording method and inkjet recording apparatus A recording ink containing at least: water; a water-soluble organic solvent; a surfactant; and a carbon black having a hydrophilic group on a surface thereof, wherein at least part of a terminal of the hydrophilic group on the carbon black is substituted with an alkali metal, wherein the carbon black releases humic acid in an aqueous dispersion of the carbon black, which is recovered from the recording ink, a concentration of the humic acid released in the aqueous dispersion containing 20% by mass of the carbon black of is expressed with a maximum absorbance at a wavelength of 230 nm to 260 nm, and the recording ink has the maximum absorbance of 5.0 to 20.0 at the wavelength of 230 nm to 260 nm.
US08029111B2	Droplet ejection head and droplet ejection apparatus A droplet ejection head comprises: a substrate having first through-holes forming reservoir chambers, a second through-hole forming a supply chamber, and a bonding film on one surface; a nozzle plate having nozzles for ejecting ejection liquid and one surface contacting the bonding film, the nozzle plate is bonded to the substrate through the bonding film to cover the first through-holes and the second through-hole; a sealing plate on another surface of the substrate covering the first through-holes, one surface of the sealing plate contacting the substrate's another surface; and piezoelectric means on another surface of the sealing plate for driving the droplet ejection head. The bonding film containing an Si-skeleton constituted of constituent atoms containing silicon atoms, with siloxane (Si—O) bonds and elimination groups bonded to the silicon atoms, the constituent atoms being randomly bonded together, and the elimination groups existing near a surface of the bonding film.
US08029106B2	Inkjet printhead with heater elements having parallel current paths An inkjet printhead having an array of ink chambers is disclosed. Each ink chamber has a nozzle and a heater element for generating vapour bubbles to eject ink through the nozzle. The heater element has multiple current paths connected in parallel. Each current path has at least one portion with a reduced cross-section relative to the remainder of the current path. A cross bracing structure is also provided for connecting intermediate portions of the current paths.
US08029104B2	Liquid droplet transporting apparatus, and valve, memory, display unit using the liquid droplet transporting apparatus A liquid droplet transporting apparatus includes a first electrode which is arranged on a surface of a substrate, a second electrode which is arranged apart from the first electrode on the surface of the substrate, an insulating layer which is arranged to cover each of the first electrode and the second electrode, and a liquid repellent property on a surface of the insulating layer changes according to an electric potential difference between the electrode and an electroconductive liquid droplet on the surface, and a third electrode which cooperates with the second electrode to detect the liquid droplet on the second electrode. Consequently, it is possible to transport a liquid droplet between two areas, and also to detect as to in which area out of the two areas, the liquid droplet exists.
US08029103B2	Liquid droplet ejection head for ejecting high viscosity liquid droplets, and liquid droplet ejection device The present invention provides a liquid droplet ejection head that ejects droplets of high viscosity ink. A liquid droplet of an electrically conductive liquid in the liquid droplet ejection head is ejected from the head, which is provided with difference in potential between the head and an opposing medium, toward the medium. Electricity is conducted between the head and the medium through a tail of the liquid droplet.
US08029100B2	Micro-fluid ejection heads with chips in pockets Micro-fluid ejection heads and methods for fabricating micro-fluid ejection heads are provided, including those that use a non-conventional substrate and methods for making large array micro-fluid ejection heads. One such ejection head includes a substrate having a device surface with a plurality of fluid ejection actuator devices and a pocket disposed adjacent thereto. A chip associated with the plurality of fluid ejection actuator devices is attached in the chip pocket adjacent to the device surface of the substrate. A conductive material is deposited adjacent to the device surface of the substrate and in electrical communication with the chip.
US08029098B2	Printhead integrated circuit with controlled drop misdirection A printhead integrated circuit that has an array of ink chambers, each having a nozzle and an actuator for ejecting ink through the nozzle. The nozzle has a nozzle rim defining a nozzle aperture and a localized irregularity on the nozzle rim extending toward the centre of the nozzle aperture.
US08029097B2	Inkjet nozzle assembly having moving roof structure and sealing bridge A nozzle assembly for an inkjet printhead. The nozzle assembly includes a nozzle chamber with a roof having a nozzle opening defined therein. The roof includes a moving portion moveable relative to a stationary portion, such that movement of the moving portion relative to the stationary portion causes ejection of ink through the nozzle opening. The nozzle assembly also includes an actuator for moving the moving portion and a seal member. The seal member is configured as a bridge spanning between the moving portion and the stationary portion.
US08029095B2	Pagewidth printhead with ink supply reservoirs integrated into support member Provided is a pagewidth printhead for an inkjet printer. The printhead has a printhead integrated circuit, a molding for supporting the printhead integrated circuit and distributing ink along the printhead integrated circuit, a core element bonded to the molding, and, an outer shell with a first metal layer sandwiched between two second metal layers, so that an effective coefficient of thermal expansion of said shell is substantially equal to that of the printhead integrated circuit. The core element defines ink reservoirs in fluid communication with the molding.
US08029092B2	Printing apparatus The invention prevents and suppresses wasteful expenditure of ink which occurs when recovering nozzles. In greater detail, a plurality of head units arranged in a direction which intersects a transportation direction of a printing medium is provided, a plurality of cleaning units is disposed to face the plurality of head units, and at least one of the plurality of cleaning units is selected and moved so as to be in close contact with the corresponding cleaning unit. By such a method, only the cleaning head unit which faces the head unit of which nozzles need to be recovered is selected and is brought into contact with the head unit, and liquid is sucked in from the nozzles of the head unit.
US08029089B2	Position detecting device, liquid ejecting apparatus and method of detecting smear of scale A position detecting device for detecting a position of an object, includes a light emitting portion that emits light, a light receiving portion that receives the light from the light emitting portion, and a scale that is arranged between the light emitting portion and the light receiving portion, and includes a position detecting pattern and a smear detecting pattern. The position detecting pattern has a first light transmitting portion for transmitting the light from the light emitting portion and a first light interception portion for intercepting the light from the light emitting portion which are alternately arranged in a detection range of the object. The smear detecting pattern for detecting smear of the scale has a second light transmitting portion for transmitting the light from the light emitting portion and a second light interception portion for intercepting the light from the light emitting portion which are alternately arranged.
US08029085B2	Recording method A transport mechanism transports a medium in a transport direction based on a target transport amount and has a first roller provided on an upstream side in the transport direction and a second roller provided on a downstream side in the transport direction. Correction values are calculated based on an interval between the lines in the transport direction. The transport mechanism is controlled based on a corrected target transport amount after correcting the target transport amount based on the correction values. Lines are formed by ejecting ink from a first nozzle when the first roller is in contact with the medium, and ejecting ink from a second nozzle on a downstream side from the first nozzle in the transport direction when the first roller is not in contact with the medium and the second roller is in contact with the medium.
US08029083B2	Recording medium detection method and label printer A recording medium detection method uses transmission and reflection photosensors to correctly detect if a recording medium having labels affixed to a liner is in the transportation path. The label printer 1 has a reflection photosensor 26 and a transmission photosensor 27 disposed to the transportation path at positions separated the distance L0 between the labels 12c. Labels 12c on the recording medium 12a can always be detected by either or both the reflection photosensor 26 and the transmission photosensor 27. Because the reflection photosensor 26 is downstream from the transmission photosensor 27, a situation in which a black mark 12d is at the detection position of the reflection photosensor 26 and reflection is not detected and only the liner 12b is at the detection position of the transmission photosensor 27 and transmission of the detection beam is detected is avoided. Detecting transmission without detecting reflection of the detection beam therefore only occurs when the recording medium 12a is not in the transportation path A.
US08029081B2	Refrigerator A refrigerator can prevent torsion of a rail member guiding withdrawal of a storage box to stably withdraw the storage box. The refrigerator includes a body, a movable storage box, a rail member, and a supporting member. The body includes a storing compartment. The movable storage box is provided inside the body. The rail member is provided in at least one side of the storage box and guides a movement of the storage box. The supporting member is disposed between the rail member and the body and allows the rail member to be tiltably supported with respect to the body. Therefore, the usability of the refrigerator is improved.
US08029080B2	Opening and closing system for a drawer An opening and closing system permits a drawer to be operated by pressing on a front panel of the drawer (e.g., in a hands-free manner). By way of example, the system includes a first sub-assembly coupled to the drawer and a second sub-assembly coupled to a drawer frame. A linear spring provides a tensioning force for operation of the drawer. The first sub-assembly includes a first pivot biasly coupled to the drawer, a fixed-length arm having a first end fixed to the first pivot and a second end coupled to a roller. The second sub-assembly includes first and second guide arms coupled to a second pivot, the first guide arm having an upper surface for engaging the roller when the drawer is being closed, the second guide arm having an arcuate-shaped region sized to receive at least a portion of the roller after the drawer is closed.
US08029079B2	Safety cabinet A safety cabinet has a plurality of walls defining a front open side and a pair of doors pivotal about respective horizontally spaced axes on the walls between a closed and an open position. Guides in the cabinet are each associated with a respective one of the doors, and respective links each have a front end connected to a respective one of the doors and a rear end shiftable front-to-back in a respective one of the guides. A connector extends between the rear ends of the links and shifts front-to-back with them. A closer is operatively engageable with the connector, and a spring applies bears on the closer to urge it against the connector for pushing same into the rear end position and closing the doors. An actuator normally holds the closer out of engagement with the connector during movement of same between the front and rear end positions.
US08029072B2	Brake control system and brake control method In order to achieve a good brake feeling, a brake control system includes a master cylinder which discharges pressurized operating fluid according to an operating amount of a brake operating member by a driver, a stroke simulator which is connected to the master cylinder and creates a reaction force with respect to that operation according to the operating amount of the brake operating member, and a control portion which calculates a target deceleration using hydraulic pressure in the stroke simulator. The brake control system is also provided with a master cylinder pressure sensor that measures the hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder. The control portion may also calculate the target deceleration using an estimated value of the hydraulic pressure in the stroke simulator calculated based on the measured value from the master cylinder pressure sensor.
US08029071B2	Take apart vehicle wheel assembly A take apart vehicle wheel assembly includes at least a first, a second and a third wheel part operatively connected together to form the take apart vehicle wheel assembly. A first one of the first, second and third wheel parts is provided with a plurality of first stud receiving holes spaced circumferentially therearound in a first unevenly spaced circumferential pattern such that each of the first stud receiving holes is spaced apart from a next adjacent first stud receiving hole by a different angular spacing. A second one of the first, second and third wheel parts is provided with a plurality of second stud receiving holes spaced circumferentially therearound in unevenly spaced circumferential pattern which corresponds to the first unevenly spaced circumferential pattern of the first stud receiving holes to enable stud bolts and nuts to be used to releasably connect the first one and the second one of the first, second and third wheel parts together.
US08029064B2	Connection devices in vehicle seats A connecting device may include first and second connecting elements that are axially oppositely coupled to each other so as to be rotatable relative to each other, a locking member that is positioned between the first and second connecting elements, an operating member that is positioned between the first and second connecting elements, and a retainer member that is arranged and constructed to circumferentially clamp the first and second connecting elements. The retainer member has a retainer portion and is fixed to the first connecting element while the second connecting element is axially supported by the retainer portion of the retainer member.
US08029063B2	Vehicle seat track A track assembly for a vehicle seat includes a first track member and a reinforcing member. The first track member has a first portion defining a first set of apertures configured to receive a locking device. The reinforcing member, which may be in the form of a plate, is coupled to the first portion and defines a second set of apertures corresponding to the first set of apertures. The second set of apertures are also configured to receive the locking device. The reinforcing member is configured to reinforce the first track member in an area around and between the first set of apertures.
US08029057B2	Clutch mechanism for vehicle seat A coupling arm presses a first or second arm of a swing member, connected to a frame of a seat back, by an occupant's backrest load caused by a rear-end collision of a vehicle to pivotally move the swing member. The first arm receives a first backrest load via the coupling arm and the second arm receives a second backrest load, which is larger than the first backrest load, via the coupling arm. The first and second arms are set so that a maximum pivot amount of the swing member when the first arm is pressed to pivot is equal to a maximum pivot amount of the swing member when the second arm is pressed to pivot.
US08029053B2	High chairs and methods to use the same High chairs and methods to use high chairs are disclosed. An example high chair includes a frame and a seat, wherein the seat defines a slot and is shaped to funnel spills toward the slot.
US08029052B2	Roof system for a vehicle A roof system for a vehicle includes a panel assembly having a transparent roof panel (14), a privacy panel (18), and a transparent display panel (16). An image generator (40) is configured to display an image on the display panel (16) and a control system operates the image generator (40) and actuates the privacy panel (18) between a transparent mode and an opaque mode. The system may also includes a perimeter trim member (20) having a perimeter ventilation system surrounding the panels. The transparent display panel (16) may also be provided with a user interface region having instruments, displays and touch-activated switches (52). The system may also include ambient lighting bands (60) adjacent to the perimeter of the panels.
US08029048B2	Rigidity of vehicle body panels An insert for reducing deflection of a vehicle fender or wing panel includes an attachment member for attachment to a lamp cluster or lamp housing of a vehicle and a head for lying between the panel and the cluster or housing.
US08029045B2	Crossbeam for a motor vehicle A crossbeam for a motor vehicle comprises a crossbeam body and at least one attachment device for attaching at least one vehicle component of the motor vehicle to the crossbeam, the attachment device having an attachment body which is fastened to the crossbeam body and extends in the longitudinal direction of the crossbeam body over a partial length of the crossbeam body and away from the crossbeam body in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of attachment elements being present on the attachment body. The attachment body is built up from a plurality of individual blanks which are fastened to the crossbeam body in a distributed manner over the partial length and which each extend with their longitudinal direction and with their blank area transversely to the longitudinal direction of the crossbeam body.
US08029042B1	Hilton air scoop This air scoop is a revolutionary idea, which allows a portion of drag wind to be used to push an automobile, or to lighten an aircraft. There are no working parts, just the box. This is made possible, by using a car-top box with a wind entrance that narrows down, increasing the wind's velocity as it passes through, then turns approximately 90° at the point of exit, to either push an automobile, or lift an aircraft. The result for either an automobile, or an aircraft is that, as speed in miles per hour increases, the miles per gallon of fuel used decreases asymptotically. In the case of private or commercial aircraft, they can either fly faster, or use less fuel for a given distance flown. In the case of very high-speed military aircraft, they can both fly faster, and stay in the air longer between fueling stops.
US08029041B2	Door trim-integrated pelvic impact energy-absorbing construction for vehicle An integrated door substrate and pelvic bolster is provided for use in a vehicle. The integrated component is formed from a polymerizable material by injection molding. The pelvic bolster is formed from thin lateral walls that buckle and tear under compressive loading. The pelvic bolster is designed to bend but not fracture under load, thus maintaining a continuous loading curve.
US08029039B2	Roof locking apparatus for a vehicle A roof locking apparatus for a vehicle (70) is provided in a vehicle body and operable to hold a middle portion with respect to a vehicle width direction of a front edge of the roof (2) within a storage space (7).
US08029038B2	Table and seat system for a vehicle A passenger vehicle comprising a vehicle body and at least one seat is provided. The vehicle body includes a front end and a rear end. The seat is mounted within the rear end of the vehicle for translating from a first stowed position within the rear end of the vehicle to a first deployed position which is exterior to the vehicle.
US08029037B2	Method and apparatus for forming a vehicle trim panel A trim panel for a vehicle is formed with a pinch-sealed edge by compression molding. The mold is designed with one or more cutting surfaces that compress or pinch the trim panel material to the point of severing the trim panel to form a tightly compressed and cut edge.
US08029034B2	Hand tool for lifting and moving a car stop A hand tool for lifting and moving a car stop, the tool having a handle, a rod member with a main section perpendicularly fixed to the handle, and an engagement section angled relative to the main section. A bracing member is fixed to the rod member for prevention of movement of the car stop relative to the rod member. According to one alternative embodiment of the invention, a pointed nosepiece is fixed to the rod member and may be used for clearing the retaining holes of a car stop of debris.
US08029028B2	Door lock device A door lock device includes an electrical drive source, which pivots a drive member from a predetermined neutral position, and a return urging member, which returns the drive member to the predetermined neutral position. The drive member pushes a locking lever with a first engagement portion and moves the locking lever to a lock position when the drive member moves from the predetermined neutral portion in a first direction in a state in which the locking lever is arranged at an unlock position. The drive member allows the double lock lever to move to the second position and disengages the first engagement portion from the locking lever when subsequently returned to the predetermined neutral position. The drive member pushes the double lock lever with a second engagement portion when moved again from the predetermined neutral position in the first direction.
US08029022B2	Fuel tank A fuel tank has a primary sump and secondary sump. A first vent valve and a second vent valve are disposed within the fuel tank. The first vent valve is closed when a level of fuel in the primary sump is equal to or higher than a first predetermined filling level, and the second vent valve is closed when a level of fuel in the secondary sump is equal to or higher than a second predetermined filling level in a refueling procedure.
US08029015B2	Airbag cover and airbag apparatus An airbag cover and an airbag apparatus are provided which achieve cost reduction by integrally molding an instrument panel and an inner case as well as ensure the rigidity of the instrument panel without degrading the aesthetically pleasing of the instrument panel. An airbag cover according to one form of the present invention is an airbag cover that is formed by integrally molding a plate-like portion constituting a vehicle interior surface and an inner case that is disposed on the back face of the plate-like portion and constitutes an airbag inflation and deployment path, wherein the plate-like portion constitutes part of the instrument panel disposed in front of an occupant, and the inner case is formed in a position in front of an occupant in a passenger seat, and the side close to a driver's seat of the plate-like portion is formed so as to be disposed in the back of a convex portion formed in the middle of the instrument panel, into which onboard equipment is set.
US08029013B2	Cambered snowboard At least one embodiment of the inventive technology relates to a snowboard having a lower surface that does not at any point along at least one specified portion thereof contact a horizontal surface underlying the snowboard when the snowboard is unweighted. Such portion(s) may be defined, at least in part, by one or more cambers. A rocker may be used to impart additional board performance benefits to a rider. Other embodiments may relate more specifically to the positioning of cambers relative to mount regions.
US08029012B2	Device, system and method for automated tow coupling A tow hook coupling device to automatically align and couple a tow hook of a first vehicle onto a female member of a second vehicle when the two vehicles are brought into proximity. The female member has a lateral attachment that is suitable to be grabbed by a hook, and the male member has a shaft, a hook connected to the shaft and an elevation guide extension. Upon contact of the guide extension with the lateral attachment, the shaft is raised to align the hook to couple with the lateral attachment.
US08029010B2	Suspension fork A suspension fork for a bicycle includes at least one stanchion tube and at least one slider tube interacting therewith and a wheel receiving space, and a damper system. The damper system includes a damper chamber divided into a first chamber and a second chamber by a movable piston and a damping device for rebound damping and a damping device for compression damping. The damper system is disposed at the stanchion tube, the damping device for rebound damping and the damping device for compression damping are disposed above the movable piston.
US08029008B2	Vehicle suspensions having leaf springs and alternative clamp groups A vehicle leaf spring suspension having a low spring rate is disclosed. The suspension has an axle seat secured to a vehicle axle. The leaf spring is clamped at its spring seat area to the axle seat at the clamp group mounting surface of the axle seat and with certain of the disclosed axle seats, can be clamped such that the spring seat area is asymmetrically positioned with respect to the vehicle axle centerline. Also, an active clamp group arrangement can be used to utilize the entire physical length of the leaf spring.
US08029007B2	Stroller passenger assembly The present invention is a passenger assembly for a stroller and is adaptable to almost any stroller and is capable of practice in numerous embodiments. The preferred embodiment features a chassis mounted platform with adjustable mounting arms. A mounting mechanism is located at the terminus of each arm and is attachable and removable from the stroller frame with the passenger assembly. A number of potential mounting mechanisms are disclosed. An extension handle is provided to allow users greater control of the stroller from a distance further than normal, as the assembly occupies the position proximate the stroller, where the user ordinarily stands. Modules are capable of addition to the assembly, such as a seat or basket, or a stow strap for securement of the assembly when not in use.
US08029006B2	Stackable dolly A stackable dolly includes a platform having upper and lower surfaces and a peripheral edge. A plurality of legs are generally coextensive with the platform and extend from the platform beyond the peripheral edge and extend radially outwardly from the platform beyond the platform periphery. Each leg includes an upper surface generally coextensive with the upper surface of the platform a lower surface serving as a mounting surface. The legs are equally angularly spaced from each other about the axis along the periphery of the platform. Casters are secured to each mounting surface of each leg. Engaging members are provided below the platform lower surface each engaging member being arranged approximate to the peripheral edge to abut against the peripheral edge of a cooperating dolly placed below the platform when the platform is supported on the cooperating dolly. The engaging members are restricting lateral movements of the engaged dollies relative to each other. In this manner, a plurality of dollies can be stacked one on top of the other while the engaging members maintain vertical stability of a stack of dollies by preventing adjacent dollies from shifting laterally from each other in relation to the axis.
US08028994B2	Gaming device and method of use with balls of differing diameters A gaming device with orbs for the generation of a greater number of results is disclosed. The device draws out numbers in a single playing cycle in various games where a greater number of orbs are used and the result depends on the numbers that are marked in the openings by randomly laying orbs. The balls are, as a rule, of two dimensions—wherein the balls with the smaller dimensions are in the game for reasons of better scattering and greater attractiveness, while the balls with the greater diameter that represent the result or the drawn numbers are retained in random holes on the plate of the cylinder with the help of the offset plate of the cylinder.
US08028989B2	Paper stacking apparatus A bottom surface of a stacking and accommodating portion is structured such as to be sloped to be lower in accordance with moving away from a paper carry-in side, and a push plate is controlled so as to be moved in a direction moving close to a carry-in port of the paper by detecting a stack paper width determined on the basis of a product of a stacked number count information of the papers and a thickness information per one paper, and the papers are accommodated.
US08028988B2	Apparatus and method for stabilizing a moving sheet relative to a sensor A method includes receiving a sheet of material at a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a sensor configured to measure a property of the sheet. The method also includes stabilizing the sheet with respect to the sensor using a guide roller. Stabilizing the sheet includes using the guide roller to remove at least a portion of a first boundary layer of air moving towards the guide roller and to reform at least a portion of a second boundary layer of air moving away from the guide roller. For example, the guide roller could include a plurality of grooves or openings in a surface of the guide roller, or the guide roller could include a plurality of rings spaced apart from one another. Air could move from one side of the guide roller to another side of the guide roller through the grooves, through the openings, or between the rings.
US08028986B2	Gears for manufacturing printer, method of using the gears, and the printer A printer having a switch gear, first driven gear and second driven gear. The switch gear has a spur gear and is slidable along a direction that is parallel to a rotation axis of the spur gear. The first driven gear has a first spur gear and a cylinder fixed to the first spur gear. The cylinder is concentric with respect to the first spur gear and extends along the above direction. A hole is formed on the second driven gear. The hole is concentric with respect to a second spur gear and extends along the above direction. The second driven gear is rotatably mounted on the first driven gear by inserting the cylinder of the first driven gear into the hole of the second driven gear. The switch gear slides between a first position for engagement with the first driven gear and a second position for engagement with the second driven gear along the above direction. Since the driven gears are formed in this way, the position of the first driven gear in the above direction is not changed even when the second driven gear is not provided.
US08028983B2	Sheet processing apparatus A sheet processing apparatus that performs processing for sheets such as sorting or stapling of the sheets after image formation includes a motor that controls a rotating position of a sheet pushing member. When a leading end of a sheet passes, after the leading end of the sheet reaches a pivoting roller, a rotating position of the sheet pushing member is controlled according to a conveyance condition during the passage of a trailing end of the sheet. The sheet pushing member is rotated and, when the trailing end of the sheet passes, the sheet is conveyed while a charge removing brush is pressed against the sheet.
US08028982B2	Method and system for simultaneously processing letters and flat mail The present teachings relate to techniques and equipment to insert documents into either letter envelopes or flat mail envelopes on the same dual mode mailing inserter without the need to do machine setup between letter and flat mail envelope insertion. The dual mode mail inserting machine is configured to accept documents from a printer that are designed for insertion into flat mail envelope. If a document plus its inserts and envelope weighs less than a predetermined weight, the document will be diverted from the normal flat mail path to a second inserter and output section.
US08028976B2	Machining fixture with self-contained hydraulics A new arrangement for machining parts is disclosed. The parts to be machined are mounted on fixture plates on a fixture. Using a stationary hydraulic line, hydraulic equipment is then pressurized by a pump within the fixture. The pump is mechanically powered by a separate (and disconnectable) power source. A rotatable coupling is attached to the pump. It receives a spindle from a CNC machine, enabling the machine to activate the pump by rotating the spindle while the spindle is received in the coupling. The coupling has axially extending prongs that form slots that accommodates the spindle. The prongs have ends that taper inwardly toward the slots. The spindle is also used to actuate a pressure release valve. The fixture also has at least four angled work faces and an access face that separates two of those faces. In operation, parts are first mounted on the fixture plates. The fixture is then moved to a work area, where the spindle actuates the pump, pressuring clamps that lock the parts in position. The parts are then machined, and the spindle then actuates the pressure release valve to release the pressure in the clamps. The fixture is then moved out of the work area, and the parts are removed. The process is then repeated for the next batch of parts.
US08028974B2	Fence post There is provided a fence post having a web and locating elements for engagement with an end portion of a barrier panel. The web has opposite inner and outer surfaces, and is profiled to facilitate alignment of the fence post with another said post when those posts are arranged back to back with the outer surfaces of the webs in abutting relation. The web incorporates at least one longitudinal groove that in use provides a channel between the abutting webs of fence posts for drainage of water from between the posts. There is also provided an intermediate fence post assembly having two of the posts arranged back to back with their respective webs in abutting relation, as well as a fence incorporating a plurality of the fence posts and/or fence post assemblies.
US08028967B2	Device and method for mounting a turbine engine A device and a method for mounting a turbine engine, e.g., a gas turbine system, are described, in which a rotor unit is mounted to rotate inside a stationary external housing, having at least two supports for taking up the weight of the turbine engine, these supports being arranged at a spacing from one another in an axial longitudinal direction in relation to the external housing and at one side being articulated directly or indirectly on the external housing and at the other being supported directly or indirectly on a base frame. At least one support provides at least one support face which is supported exclusively in partial regions on at least two support plate elements. The at least one support face of the support is in operational engagement with the base frame by way of the support plate elements.
US08028964B2	Incremental angular position and locking system for mounting devices A mounting system comprising an incremental angular position and locking system. A tilt bracket is configured to operatively connect to a surface, and an adapter bracket is operatively and movably connected to the tilt bracket, with the adapter bracket being configured to operatively connect to an object such as an audio/video device. A plurality of angular position features are associated with one of the tilt bracket and the adapter bracket, and an angular positioning element is configured to selectively engage at least one of the plurality of angular position features. When the angular positioning element is in engaged with at least one angular position feature, the adapter bracket is impeded from moving relative to the tilt bracket. When the angular positioning element is not in engagement with at least one angular position feature, the adapter bracket is substantially free to move relative to the tilt bracket.
US08028962B2	Fir tree mount for cable ties The disclosed device provides an improved mounting assembly for securely supporting elongated items against a surface. The assembly provides a mount with an aperture, which interacts with a flexible tie for retaining the items. The aperture contains a tab, which provides frictional force for the flexible tie when it is placed through the aperture in a preassembled state. The device may also include a diaphragm and a mounting stud extending downwardly from the mount. The diaphragm will provide tension and resistance when the mounting stud is inserted into a supporting surface. The stud may also contain staggered or asymmetrical branches that extend from either side of a center section of the stud. Furthermore, the stud may include a pilot branch located at the end of the stud that will be inserted into the supporting surface. The stud may have a spine and rib that assist in securing the device within a surface.
US08028960B2	Flight deck layout for aircraft An aircraft flight deck includes: first and second seats disposed side-by-side longitudinally in a flying direction of an aircraft, and separated by a central pedestal; control or display elements distributed ergonomically in the flight deck; and a third seat disposed longitudinally in the flying direction, located behind the first and second seats, and at a rear of the central pedestal. The central pedestal includes: a connecting device for the display elements, a control device dedicated to a third crew member and disposed at a side of the third seat; and display or control elements dedicated to tasks other than piloting, and visible and accessible from the three seats.
US08028956B2	Aircraft landing gear and door assembly An aircraft landing gear door assembly includes a door, which is moveable to an open position, in which an aperture is exposed, the landing gear being able to be deployed through said aperture, and moveable to a closed position, in which the door is closed across the aperture. The door is arranged for rotational movement of a first type, in which the door rotates about an axis that is substantially parallel to the length of the aircraft, between the closed position and the open position. The door is also arranged for movement of a second type, different from the first type, in which the door rotates, about an axis that is substantially transverse to the length of the aircraft, to a position in which it acts as a fairing to reduce the noise caused by the landing gear or a part thereof. In one embodiment, the second type of movement is rotational movement about an axis that is substantially parallel to the door when in the closed position and the door forms a ramp type fairing. In another embodiment, the second type of movement is rotational movement about an axis that is substantially transverse to the door when in the closed position and the door forms a V-shaped fairing (when viewed from above) with an opposite door.
US08028954B2	Architecture for a hydraulic system for operating aircraft landing gear The invention relates to an architecture for a hydraulic system for operating the landing gear of an aircraft including at least one pressure source and at least one hydraulic return, the system having a hydraulic circuit comprising a first hydraulic line that, when pressurized, causes the landing gear to be lowered, and a second hydraulic line that, when pressurized, causes the landing gear to be raised, said lines being selectively pressurized by means of a hydraulic distribution member comprising at least an isolation valve and a selector for putting one of the lines into communication with pressure and the other line into communication with return. According to the invention, the architecture includes passive bypass means for bypassing the selector, said means being disposed between the second line and an admission line that extends between the isolation valve and the selector, and forced return connection means for forcing the isolation valve to isolate the pressure circuit of the aircraft and connect the admission line to return.
US08028952B2	System for shipboard launch and recovery of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) aircraft and method therefor A system to launch and recover an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) aircraft has a pole member attached to a deck of a ship. An arm member is attached to the pole member and extends away from the pole member in an approximately horizontal direction. The arm member is able to move rotationally and vertically on the pole member. An attachment mechanism is attached to a distal end of the arm member for holding and capturing the UAV aircraft. Momentum of the UAV aircraft causes the arm member to move rotationally around and vertically on the pole member when the UAV aircraft is coupled to the attachment mechanism.
US08028951B2	Hydrogen powered aircraft Disclosed is an aircraft, configured to have a wide range of flight speeds, consuming low levels of power for an extended period of time, while supporting a communications platform with an unobstructed downward-looking view. The aircraft includes an extendable slat at the leading edge of the wing, and a reflexed trailing edge. The aircraft comprises a flying wing extending laterally between two ends and a center point. The wing is swept and has a relatively constant chord. The aircraft also includes a power module configured to provide power via a fuel cell. The fuel cell stores liquid hydrogen as fuel, but uses gaseous hydrogen in the fuel cell. A fuel tank heater is used to control the boil-rate of the fuel in the fuel tank. The fuel cell compresses ambient air for an oxidizer, and operates with the fuel and oxidizer at pressures below one atmosphere. The aircraft of the invention includes a support structure including a plurality of supports, where the supports form a tetrahedron that affixes to the wing.
US08028948B1	Fishing line control system A fishing spool line control system includes a cutter housing attached to an annular elastic cloth band that fits around and covers fishing line on a spool. Fishing line, such as tippet, is fed from the spool through a hole in the rear of the cutter housing, and is cut to desired length by a blade in the front of the cutter housing. A thumb rest behind the blade allows pressure to be placed on the cutter housing, allowing safer, easier, and more accurate cutting of the fishing line.
US08028943B2	Agitating ball mill An agitating ball mill includes a comminution vessel surrounding an agitating shaft which is provided with a product inlet and a product outlet, wherein the comminution media located within the comminution vessel is activated through the rotation of the agitating shaft and held back in the comminution chamber by a separating and/or pre-classifying device. For optimum energy and space utilization a pre-crushing device is arranged upstream of the comminution chamber. The pre-crushing device includes either a static or dynamic gap guard.
US08028940B2	Residential waste volume reduction arrangements The disclosed trash comminution apparatus (TCA) is a device designed to work in conjunction with existing residential trash receptacles utilized by both municipal and private trash collection services. The TCA can pulverize, grind and shred most residential trash items into small pieces, while allowing non-shreddable material to be disposed of as well. In some embodiments, the TCA can be installed on the top of a commonly utilized trash receptacle. To install the TCA on a common receptacle, the hinged top of the receptacle can be removed. A rectangular opening can be cut near the top, on the back side of the receptacle. The TCA can then fit directly inside the top lip of the receptacle and can be bolted into the sides of the receptacle with a reinforcing metal band on both the interior and exterior of the lip of the receptacle. An electrical connection box with a three-prong electrical plug can be installed into the rectangular. The TCA can have a metal lid and a latch to latch the lid to the receptacle. When the lid is closed a safety switch can allow comminution to begin.
US08028931B2	Liquid discharge device A liquid discharge device (1) has a pressure chamber (3), a nozzle (4), and a communication path (5) that interconnects the pressure chamber (3) and the nozzle (4). A region that has a specific length L1 and lies from the position (8) of the boundary between the communication path (5) of the pressure chamber (3) toward the nozzle (4) is formed as a narrow section (9) that has an opening area S1 smaller than the opening area S0 of a region closer to the nozzle (4) than the narrow section (9). In the liquid discharge device (1), the narrow section (9) functions to damp micro vibration that occurs in liquid in the communication path (5), and this allows liquid drops having a pre-designed volume and flying speed to be discharged from every nozzle (4) on a board (2)
US08028927B2	Variable rate spray nozzle control The present invention provides an advanced spray control system for controlling a sprayer, which comprises a plurality of scrolling means operatively connected to the sprayer, where the spray system offers added controllability and operability. Also provided is a method of controlling a sprayer using the spray control system of the present invention.
US08028924B2	Device and method for providing an integrated circuit with a unique identification A device and method for providing an integrated circuit with a unique identification. The device is usable on an integrated circuit (IC) for generating an identification (ID) identifying the IC and includes a plurality of identification cells each utilizing one of a four wire resistor, thin film resistors, and an inverter pair. A measurement circuit measures a parameter of each cell and is utilized in generating the ID in response thereto.
US08028920B2	Data capture terminal with multiple readers operable in handheld and hands-free modes of operation A data capture terminal for, and method of, automatically capturing data in a handheld mode, and in a hands-free mode, of operation, include an actuatable laser scanning reader supported by the terminal for electro-optically reading indicia to obtain data by scanning the indicia, an actuatable imaging reader supported by the terminal for electro-optically reading indicia to obtain data by capturing an image of the indicia, and an actuatable radio frequency identification (RFID) reader supported by the terminal for reading an RFID tag to obtain data. A trigger mechanism is manually actuatable by an operator to initiate actuation of the readers in the handheld mode with different triggering actions unique to the respective readers.
US08028917B2	Adaptive optimizations for signal processing in imaging readers An imaging reader includes an illuminating light assembly, an illuminating control operative to control either the intensity or the duration of the illumination light projected by the illuminating light assembly, and a solid-state imager. The solid-state imager includes a matrix of optical-sensors and a signal processing circuit coupled to the matrix of optical-sensors. The controller is operative to determine the optimized exposure level of the illuminating control and the optimized gain of the signal processing circuit based on a measured voltage of a voltage power source for the solid-state imager.
US08028916B2	Methods and apparatus for positioning objects for scanning by a hybrid laser and imaging scanner Systems and techniques for assuring proper presentation of a bar code for imaging scanning in a hybrid laser and imaging bar code scanner. A scanner includes elements for laser bar code scanning and imaging bar code scanning, and includes indicia for assuring proper presentation by a user of a bar code suited to imaging scanning. Indicia may include targeting features on a scan window, designed so as to minimize interference with bar code scanning, or may alternatively include features alongside a scan window. Alternative indicia may include removable holders for securing an object bearing a bar code in an appropriate position, and further alternative indicia may include visible targeting beams so that a user can be assured that imaging scanning may be satisfactorily performed on bar code placed in a visible targeting beam.
US08028909B2	Integrated image quality test for imaging system An imaging system with in-field image quality testing and reporting features, includes a housing, and a solid-state imager having an array of image sensors supported by the housing for capturing return light from a target located in a range of working distances from the housing in an image capture mode of operation, and for capturing return light from a test pattern positioned at a predetermined position in the range of working distances in a test mode of operation different from the image capture mode. An electrical signal indicative of the captured return light is generated in each mode. A memory is supported by the housing for storing a test program for testing image quality. A controller is supported by the housing for processing the electrical signal in the image capture mode, and for accessing the memory to enable the controller to execute the test program in the test mode to test the image quality of the test pattern imaged by the imaging system, and for reporting test results of the image quality of the test pattern.
US08028904B2	Radio frequency identifiers in game tickets Systems and methods of distributing, dispensing and validating game tickets provide for the use of radio frequency identifiers (RFIDS). Game ticket consumables may also be tracked with RFIDS. Ticket data such as game numbers, void if removed numbers, theme descriptions, place styles, price points and player account information can be stored to a memory of a game ticket, where the ticket is capable of transmitting the ticket data as an RF signal. Approaches also provide for the use of RFIDS in game sponsor/ticket printer facilities, ticket warehouse facilities and ticket destruction facilities.
US08028903B1	System and method of pre-approving card holders for expedited security processing using emerging countries international travel approval control card The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method, and more particularly to a system and method of pre-approving card holders for expedited security processing using an emerging country's international travel approval control card, i.e. an electronic data card that includes biometric verification means for verifying a biometric identifier stored thereon, used to uniquely identify the card holder to security personnel as pre-approved for expedited security screening at a country's port of entry.
US08028901B2	Method and apparatus for money transfer A method of performing a money transfer transaction involves receiving information at an automated kiosk from a user for a money transfer transaction, including a transaction type selection and, responsive to the information from the user received at the kiosk, building a staging record for the transaction. The staging record includes at least a retrieval key to identify the staging record and a transaction type identifier. The method provides to the sender from the kiosk a machine readable staged transaction token with staging information stored thereon, including the retrieval key for use in transaction fulfillment.
US08028898B2	Double conversion cheque-clearing process and system A cheque clearing process includes the steps of: receiving, in a computer system, first payment information based on digital ink generated by an optically imaging pen, the digital ink identifying a unique cheque identity and representing handwritten information entered on the cheque by the pen; receiving, in the computer system, second payment information based on independently reading visible information on the cheque; and comparing the first payment information with the second payment information.
US08028897B2	Deposit of coins into a financial account Method, apparatus and system for receiving coins and generating a certificate for depositing the sum of received coins in a banking account. The user may redeem the certificate in an already existing bank account or may enroll into a new banking account and receive immediate access to the funds redeemed.
US08028892B2	System consisting of consumer item, detection device for coding in consumer item, and server, and process for carrying out authentication The system disclosed includes at least a consumer item, such as a cigarette box, medication package or piece of clothing, and a detection device that can be operated by a buyer of the consumer item, which is configured for the detection of a coding in the consumer item, and a server, wherein the coding is hidden in the consumer item, but can be accessed by the buyer of the consumer item, so that the coding can be detected by means of a detection device and be transmitted to the manufacturer via a telecommunications connection to the server, wherein the server verifies if the coding is registered as valid, and wherein, depending upon the verification of the coding, a monetary benefit in favor of the telecommunications number of the buyer is credited by means of the server, and/or the server is configured for transmission of information to the buyer.
US08028885B2	Electric surgical instrument with optimized power supply and drive A surgical instrument includes a surgical end effector having at least one actuation assembly to effect a surgical procedure when actuated, an electric motor operationally connected to the end effector to operate the at least one actuation assembly, and a power supply electrically connected to the motor and selectively powering the motor to actuate the actuation assembly. The power supply has a battery cell with a critical current rate and, when activated to power the motor and actuate the actuation assembly, operates the cell at a super-critical current rate or at an average current rate above the critical current rate. The power supply selectively powers the motor to actuate the assembly less than 16 times during a clinical life of at least one of the end effector, the motor, and the power supply. When actuated, the assembly operates only between 0.5 seconds and 16 seconds in duration.
US08028883B2	Methods of using shape memory alloys for buttress attachment A surgical stapling device includes a tissue contacting surface and a buttress attachment feature. The buttress attachment feature permits selectively securing a surgical buttress to the tissue contacting surface, which may be disposed on a cartridge assembly or an anvil plate of the surgical stapling device. The buttress attachment feature may include a shape memory alloy, such as a nickel titanium alloy, that is responsive to a temperature change to allow the buttress attachment feature to move between a first position where a free end of the buttress attachment feature is substantially spaced from the tissue contacting surface, and second position where the surgical attachment feature is approximated with respect to the tissue contacting surface.
US08028874B2	Kayak handling system An L-shaped member has a forwardly extending horizontal leg and an upwardly extending vertical leg. The horizontal leg has a forward end removably couplable with respect to a hitch of a vehicle. The vertical leg has an upper end. A roller assembly includes a U-shaped support. The U-shaped support has a horizontal central portion coupled to the upper end of the vertical leg. The U-shaped support has upwardly extending vertical end legs and a shaft rotatably supported by the end legs. The roller assembly includes primary rollers rotatably supported on the shaft. A spacer is provided between the primary rollers. A bottom of an object is positionable upon the primary rollers and pushed into position upon a roof of the vehicle.
US08028869B2	Adjustable clothes hanger The adjustable clothes hanger has adjustable sleeve upper stays, sleeve lower stays, and torso side stays. These components adjust to spread the sleeves and torso of a shirt on the hanger to hold the fabric in a smooth, lightly stretched condition to optimize drying and preclude wrinkling. The hanger has opposed sleeve upper stays, which adjust along the underlying frame of the hanger. The outer portions of the sleeve upper stays extend to support the shirtsleeve upper edges. Torso side stays extend downwardly from the horizontal crossmember of the hanger, and adjust to hold the sides of the shirt apart and to hold the torso fabric in a smooth and unwrinkled condition during drying. Pivotal or fixed sleeve lower stays may extend from the upper portions of the torso side stays, or may extend adjustably from the outer ends of the adjustable sleeve upper stays.
US08028867B2	Container for dispensing a substance The invention relates to a container (1) for containing a substance. The container comprises a preformed deformable body defining a filling cavity. The body has an opening (6) and an integral planar circumferential rim (5) surrounding said opening. The opening is closed by a cover sheet (7) which is sealed to the circumferential rim by means of a circumferential sealing seam (10). The circumferential rim has a flat dispensing part which is covered by the cover sheet, which cover sheet is sealed to the dispensing part by at least two outwardly directed sealing seams (11) joining the circumferential sealing seam and extending at a distance from one another from the circumferential sealing seam to the edge of the dispensing part. A weakened seal (14) with a pointed region (15) extends between the outwardly directed sealing seams. The pointed region is directed towards the cavity and the weakened sealing seam joins the respective outwardly directed sealing seams at a distance from the location (12) where the respective outwardly directed seals join the circumferential seal.
US08028866B2	Alcoholic beverage dispenser An alcoholic beverage dispenser for receiving individual containers and dispensing alcohol from one or more of the received containers comprising a base having multiple compartments therein each for receiving the individual containers therein. A valve having a valve stem extending therefrom is coupled around the opening of each individual container and each container is in turn connected with a dispensing system within the base. The dispensing system receives liquid from each individual container and dispenses the received liquid through a receiving outlet such as a tap, drink dispenser, or an individual glass.
US08028861B2	Dispenser with improved supply-closing means The invention relates to a dispenser, particularly suitable for a liquid container, comprising: an air pump with an air cylinder (23) and an air piston (3) axially displaceable in the air cylinder, an air space (19) defined between the air cylinder and the air piston, supply-closing means (39) for closing the air supply to the air pump, discharge-closing means for closing the air discharge from the air pump, a cover (1) connected to the air piston, an air inlet opening (12) in the cover, wherein the air inlet opening debouches directly into the air space, and an annular element (39) which extends axially on the inside of the cover and which comprises an edge part, which edge part is in contact with at least the part of the inner wall of the cover located around the air inlet opening (12).
US08028856B2	Device for the packaging and dispensing of solid shaped bodies, especially oral tablets or and capsules The invention relates to a device for the packaging and dispensing of solid shaped bodies, especially oral tablets or/and capsules, which device has a container sealed with a cap suitable for storing shaped bodies, a dispensing opening, and tools forwarding the shaped bodies from the inside of the container to the dispensing opening. The container (5) is constructed in a house (1) in a way that it can be moved like a piston against elastic returning force. The dispensing opening (35) is situated in the bottom (2a) of the house (1); when the device is in a position when it is not used for dispensing, the end-part of the container (5), with an opening (20) for releasing one shaped body at a time situated opposite the end of the container (5) sealed with a cap, fits into the dispensing opening (35) by sealing it, and it is constructed in a way that in the course of the dispensing operations it makes it possible to dispense favourably one shaped body at a time outside of the house (1).
US08028854B2	Pivot lid waste basket The subject invention is a lid assembly (20) for use on a container (22) presenting an endless top rim (24). A frame (26) includes shell-shaped sidewalls (36) that face one another, and present upper concave central edges (48). The upper concave central edges (48) are connected by lower edges (50) to define opposed L-shaped openings (54) between the central edges (48). A pair of abutting L-shaped flaps (28) each define a top leg (64) and a side leg (68). The flaps (28) are complementary to the L-shaped openings (54) by extending away from each other along the upper central edges (48) of the sidewalls (36) and then downward to the lower edge (50). The top legs (64) may be pushed down into the opening (54) to provide access to the container (22) while the side legs (68) bias the flaps (28) to a closed position.
US08028851B2	Enhanced tamper evident container with tear-apart parts A container clearly indicates that it has been opened after a store clerk loads food into the base of the container and closes a covering of the container onto the base. The covering (16) includes a peripheral cover portion (22) that becomes fixed to a peripheral base portion (32) when the clerk initially closes the container. To thereafter open the container, a person forcefully lifts a tab (30) on the covering to tear the covering along a long tear line (26) that separates the peripheral cover portion (22) from a lid (24) formed by a radially inner covering portion. The base (12) is fixed to the peripheral covering portion (22), and together they form a base device (40). After the lid has been torn free of the peripheral covering portion, the lid can be closed and latched to the base device and then can be easily opened again. The container is supplied to the store with an adhesive strip (34) that the clerk activates by shining ultraviolet light (UV) at the adhesive after he/she places the loaded and initially closed container in a UV chamber (86), or mechanical latches with tabs engaging shoulders can be used.
US08028849B2	Reusable container A reusable container comprises a base provided with a plurality of cut-outs, a lid provided with a plurality of cut-outs, and at least one wall panel comprising a plurality of tabs formed as unitary extensions of the wall panel, wherein the plurality of tabs engage the plurality of cuts-outs, securing the at least one wall panel to the base and to the lid. A back wall, a front wall brace, and at least one side wall brace provide support for the product. A method for electro-mechanically loading the container is also provided.
US08028848B2	Non-removable closure/finish system A container and closure package to provide secure threaded attachment of the closure to the container in a predetermined orientation and inhibits removal of the closure. A container neck finish has an external thread and an external annular ledge or flange therebelow having external locking recesses or notches. A closure includes an inner annular wall adapted for threaded engagement on the neck finish. A closure outer annular skirt wall inhibits tampering access to an intermediate annular locking lug wall disposed concentrically between the inner and outer skirt walls. Locking lugs protrude radially inwardly from the inner periphery of the intermediate annular wall and are disposed for snap receipt into the ledge locking notches as the closure is fully threaded onto the container neck finish.
US08028843B2	Shift and scan test tube rack apparatus and method A shift and scan test tube rack apparatus and method comprised of an array of initially aligned racks each comprised of a row of spaced apart receptacles each having a receptacle window through which a barcode on a received barcode labeled test tube is viewable and each rack further comprised of a plurality of line of sight windows each interposed between two adjacent spaced apart receptacles, and a shifting device for individually shifting any one of the racks in the array of initially aligned racks to a shifted position that allows a plurality of the receptacle windows in the shifted rack to be viewed through the plurality of line of sight windows in the remaining aligned racks for reading barcodes on barcode labeled test tubes received in the shifted rack.
US08028835B2	Medical products and medical product ordering system A transaction management system is capable of simply and accurately gathering information about the use of medical products with minimized human errors and automatically executing issuance of invoices of suppliers and restocking of used products on the basis of the results of use of products deposited at medical centers. The system comprises a computer system having an antenna electrically connected to a reader and a medical product encapsulated in a sterilized environment in a package. The package is provided with an IC tag arranged such that signal transmission and/or reception is disabled while the package remains unopened so that the medical product is in the sterilized condition. The IC tag becomes wirelessly communicable with the antenna when the package is opened to remove the medical product. The computer system reads the product information about the medical product from the IC tag now wirelessly communicable with the antenna and, on the basis of the obtained product information, places an order to a supplier for the replenishment of the used medical product through a dedicated line or an external network.
US08028833B1	Container for lipsticks, allowing quick color identification A container for lipsticks able to hold several lipsticks and other utensils in the cosmetics line and having a pliable base material (16) with a pliable top material lying flat (10) against the pliable base material in some areas and in other areas forming pockets (14) that lie in vertical columns. The pockets (14) of one column are offset from the pockets (14) of the other column so that when folded vertically the pockets of one column lie between the pockets of the other column. In addition, having double layers of a flexible transparent material (12) for identifying the color of each lipstick, a device to keep the upper edge rigid (18) while allowing it to be folded vertically and a closure and or hanging device (20). Because all the pockets open toward the center of the pliable base material, none of the contents can be spilled from the pockets when the container for lipsticks is folded vertically, rolled and secured with the closure device (20). When open flat all the lipstick colors can be seen at once.
US08028832B2	Storage device A storage device and a method for making the storage device are described. In one implementation, the storage device comprises first and second walls having interior and exterior portions. The second wall opposes and is connected to the first wall so that the interior portions of the first and second walls define an interior of the storage device and the exterior portions of the first and second walls define an exterior of the storage device. An access opening is located between the first and second walls, and the access opening is sized to receive an electronic device. A plurality of voids is located in the first wall and the voids are configured to permit air passage between the interior and exterior of the storage device. A porous material that permits airflow through the voids may be connected to the first wall. Other implementations are described.
US08028831B2	Package structure for display device A package structure prevents an optical sheet from being brought into contact with a display panel and making scratches on the display panel due to motion caused during transport of a display device, thereby minimizing cost increase. A package structure for a thin display device is the structure for storing the thin display device in a package case. The thin display device includes at least one optical sheet situated in approximately parallel with its display surface, and the package case includes a storage member for holding a thin display device with the optical sheet having a surface inclined relative to a vertical direction.
US08028828B1	Transformable instrument storage case and stand An instrument case that is transformable into a stand for holding the instrument includes a base and a movable portion, including of a plurality of panels, attached at one end to the base. To transform the case into a stand, the movable portion is moved toward the base, thereby causing panels to rotate outwardly from a center of the instrument case, creating legs of the stand.
US08028827B2	Packaging for opthalmic lens The invention relates to a packaging for an ophthalmic lens (100) that comprises a box (200) and a lens holder (300) inside the closed box. The holder includes at least one flexible portion (305) that is bent by the lid (202) of the box when said lid is closed. The portion thus bent bears against a peripheral edge (B) of the lens in order to maintain said lens at a distance from the lid inside the box. A convex face (S1) of the lens in the box is thus protected against any damage.
US08028826B1	Storage system for 25mm IM cartridges An improved 25 mm linked cartridge IM ammunition storage system, using existing ammunition cans, that simplifies the design of the storage system, and utilizes standoffs to separate the base of each cartridge from the ends of the ammunition can—thereby allowing the cartridges base IM venting system to vent properly, avoiding pressure build-up, and reducing the risk of explosion or detonation of the propellant.
US08028824B2	Replacement roller assembly A replacement roller support assembly allows repairing of a conveyor roller support system begins with removing at lease one system roller support from the system base. Next a replacement roller support assembly includes an assembly base with an opening and assembly roller support above each opening for each system roller support removed. The replacement roller support assembly is positioned with the opening and the assembly roller support aligned with the location of the removed roller supports of the system. The support assembly is secured to the system base and the roller is attached to the assembly roller support.
US08028815B2	Conveying device A conveying device for objects, in particular for bottles, having a first conveyor, a second conveyor and an intermediate buffer communicating with said first and second conveyors via a first transfer site. In order to increase the flexibility of such a conveying device, the first and second conveyors are connected to the buffer separately from one another via a respective first transfer site. Also, a switchable intermediate conveyor is provided, which bypasses the buffer and which is in conveying connection with the first and second conveyors via a respective second transfer site.
US08028810B2	Disk brake A disk brake having a brake caliper, which engages axially in a U shape around a rotatable brake disk is provided. The disk brake includes a caliper bridge, two caliper limbs and at least one actuating device. At least one brake lining is mounted in an axially movable fashion in the brake caliper. The caliper bridge has, in the peripheral direction, at least three substantially axially extending supports, wherein two of the supports are embodied as a main support and one support is embodied as a central support. These supports connect the two caliper limbs and in the process form two windows and axially project beyond the brake disk. The central support projects both beyond the brake disk and beyond the brake lining in the axial direction.
US08028809B2	Elevator system control providing specialized service features and individual location information An elevator system (20) includes a transceiver (22) that receives at least one wirelessly transmitted signal (24). In one example, a signaling device (26) includes a plurality of switches (28) that can be activated to provide a signal indicating a desired or intended destination. The signal also provides an indication of the individual from whom the signal is received. A system controller (30) responds to the signal by assigning an elevator car (32) to travel to the intended destination. When the elevator car (32) is situated to receive the individual, in the event that another wireless signal is received, the system provides at least one access feature including delaying closing an elevator car door or generating an audible sound to guide the individual to the car. In one example, the system maintains information regarding expected locations of individuals providing such signals to facilitate providing assistance to them for exiting a building, for example.
US08028801B2	Soundproof cover The present invention provides a soundproof cover comprising: a sound-absorbing material having air permeability; and a skin material impregnated with a viscoelastic material and having air permeability, wherein the skin material is provided on a surface of the sound-absorbing material opposite to a sound source, and wherein the soundproof cover has a three-dimensional shape corresponding to an outer shape of the sound source.
US08028800B2	Acoustic damping compositions An acoustic damping composition includes a binder resin including an addition polymer having a carboxylic functional group and a urethane component. The acoustic damping composition has a Mode 1 Damping Parameter of at least 0.45.
US08028796B2	Assembly of tire and rim The present invention provides an assembly of a tire and a rim, which assembly has on the tire inner cavity side thereof a sound absorbing member capable of effectively suppressing cavity resonance and reducing road noise, while suppressing increase in weight of the tire and increase in volume of the sound absorbing member. In this assembly of a tire and a rim, the sound absorbing member is mounted on the inner cavity side of the tire as a sound absorbing layer for suppressing cavity resonance inside the tire. The sound absorbing member is unwoven cloth made of plural fibers, and the average distance d between fibers constituting the unwoven cloth is within the range of 0.50δ to 4.00δ.
US08028795B2	Exhaust component cover A lightweight exhaust component cover having a small number of components is disclosed. In the exhaust component cover, an internal plate is formed by bending part of a single plate at both ends, and the internal plate is joined to the inside surface of an external plate.
US08028793B2	Noise attenuating inserts for electronic equipment cabinets A noise attenuating method, and a system thereof, for controlling acoustical noise in an electronic equipment enclosure is disclosed. The noise attenuating system includes one or more noise attenuating inserts configured to be removably attached to the electronic equipment enclosure so as to block noise from at least one electronic device contained in the electronic equipment enclosure and to channel an airflow from an inlet point to one or more outlet points of the electronic equipment enclosure. The method includes arranging one or more noise attenuating inserts within an electronic equipment enclosure such that the noise attenuating inserts simultaneously block noise from at least one electronic device contained in the enclosure and channel an airflow path circulating therein.
US08028789B2	Control adaptation of variable gear ratio steering An adaptive control VGR steering system that varies the steering gear ratio between a vehicle hand-wheel angle and the road wheel angle based on vehicle speed and one or more of hand-wheel angle, driver attentiveness and a driver's driving style and skill.
US08028788B2	Spring applied brake and drive axle assembly A brake assembly includes a piston housing, a piston moveably arranged within the piston housing, and a bearing cover mounted to the piston housing. A spring assembly is located between the piston and the bearing cover, wherein mounting the bearing cover to the piston housing compresses the spring assembly to achieve an initial spring force. The initial spring force of the spring assembly causes the piston to act against a vehicle brake when the brake assembly is mounted to a vehicle axle that passes through the spring assembly.
US08028786B2	Passenger's weight measurement device for vehicle seat and attachment structure for load sensor A lower rail is fixed to a vehicle floor, and an upper rail is movable in a rear and front direction with respect to the lower rail. A load sensor is fixed to an upper surface of the upper rail. A rectangular frame is attached onto the load sensor, a rod of the load sensor sequentially penetrates a web of the rectangular frame and a spring holder upward, and a coil spring is wound around the rod. A nut is screwed to the rod, and the nut tightens a bottom of a cup portion of the spring holder. The coil spring is sandwiched between a flange of the spring holder and the web and is compressed by tightening the nut.
US08028785B2	Electric motorcycle An electric motorcycle in which the disposition space of a motor is downsized, the number of components is reduced, and the power transmission efficiency is improved. In an electric motorcycle, a swing arm is swingably supported by a vehicle body frame and supports a power generating motor. A driving shaft of the power generating motor and a rear wheel axle of a rear wheel are coupled together. A driving force of the power generating motor is transmitted to the rear wheel. In the electric motorcycle, the driving shaft of the power generating motor is disposed generally in parallel to the rear wheel axle of the rear wheel. A driving gear is provided on the driving shaft. A driving gear is in meshing engagement with a reduction gear provided on the rear wheel axle. The driving gear has a smaller diameter than that of the reduction gear. A driving force of the power generating motor is transmitted to the rear wheel axle through a reduction.
US08028781B2	Flexible under-frame shield An under-frame shield, particularly useful with crop sprayers and other implements which traverse fields of plants, includes one or more flexible sheet material shields connected to axle structure and to a central rigid shield by resilient connectors to facilitate suspension system movement in all directions without sacrificing ground clearance. The connection structure and sheet material shields maintain a smooth, seamless protective surface on the under side of the machine to reduce vehicle and crop damage.
US08028780B2	Electric vehicle To ensure that an energy supply operation can be performed safely and smoothly on a vehicle having a plurality of energy ports such as a charging port, charging ports for supplying electric energy to a high voltage battery and a fuel supply port for supplying fuel to a fuel tank are provided in a vehicle body as energy supply ports. The fuel supply port and charging ports are respectively provided with lid members that are switched between a closed state and an open state by respective lock mechanisms. When closure of one lid member is released, all of the other lid members are prohibited from being switched to the open state, and therefore the number of energy supply ports having an open lid member is limited to one.
US08028779B2	Hybrid vehicle The present invention provides a hybrid vehicle including a first transmission path that transmits a traction of an engine to driving wheels and a second transmission path that transmits a traction of a motor to the driving wheels, and the hybrid vehicle runs by alternatively selecting either the first or second transmission path or in combination thereof. The first transmission path has a first reduction gear ratio that is defined to be smaller than a reduction gear ratio at which a maximum vehicle speed can be achieved by the traction of the engine alone.
US08028777B2	Coaxial two-wheel vehicle A coaxial two-wheel vehicle with which a rider stably travels without the upper body being swayed left and right in a riding state of the center of gravity being positioned high. The coaxial two-wheel vehicle includes: a step plate for a driver to ride; a vehicle body that supports the step plate to be capable of changing a posture in a roll direction of rotating around a roll axis as the center, when a traveling direction is made the roll axis; a pair of wheels with one wheel disposed on each side of the body on the same axis in the direction orthogonal to the traveling direction of the vehicle body and rotatably supported by the vehicle body; a pair of wheel drive means to drive and rotate the pair of wheels independently; and a handle for directly changing a posture of the step plate or indirectly changing the posture through the vehicle body.
US08028775B2	Spherical mobility mechanism An omni directional mobility device made of a spherical device that is capable of omni directional movement. An omni directional vehicle including a vehicle and at least one omni directional mobility device made of a spherical device for enabling omni directional movement.
US08028768B2	Displaceable plug in a tool string filter A filter for a drill string comprises a perforated receptacle having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the filter comprises a drilling mud intake, and the lower end of the filter comprises an opening. A displaceable plug is seated on the opening at the lower end.
US08028763B2	Downhole tool The present invention relates to downhole tools, and in particular an underreamer tool for use in a wellbore of an oil or gas well and a method of actuation. In an embodiment, the underreamer tool has body having a longitudinal axis and a fluid conduit, a tool element and an actuation device configured to urge the tool element relative to the body from a first configuration into a second configuration. In this embodiment, a portion of the tool has a curved actuation surface and the tool element is urged across the curved actuation surface the tool element is moved radially with respect to the body of the tool. Typically, the actuation device may include a piston driven by pressure of fluid circulated through the fluid flow conduit.
US08028761B2	Electric power tool The invention is based on an electric power tool having at least one drive unit and a gear unit, where the gear unit is a drive element for applying force to a piston unit. It is proposed that the drive element and the piston unit be arranged in an axially parallel manner. At least a region of the drive element overlaps axially with a longitudinal portion of the piston unit. The drive unit is arranged approximately centrally in an axial extension of the piston unit and the longitudinal axis of the drive unit is arranged transversely to the piston longitudinal axis.
US08028758B2	Aeration device A soil aeration device may include a plurality of arcuate blades mounted to an assembly adapted to rotate and translate the blades proximate a ground surface, thereby forming aeration pockets in the soil. In certain embodiments, the arcuate tines penetrate and fracture the soil while minimizing the amount of soil lifted from the pocket deposited on the top of the soil. In various embodiments, a planetary gear assembly imparts to the tine a translational and rotational movement which creates a fractured pocket in the soil while minimizing the amount of soil lifted from the pocket and deposited on the surface of the soil. In still other embodiments, the arcuate tine may have mounted thereon a coring tube that cuts and removes a plug from the pocket formed in the soil.
US08028757B2	Nozzle for extinguishing devices and the like A nozzle for extinguishing devices and the like, made of a material with a high heat conductivity coefficient and comprising at least one through opening, at least one portion of which is blocked hermetically by at least one pad made of thermoplastic material, the pad being automatically removable, due to the pressure of the extinguishing agent, at a preset temperature, so as to allow the automatic dispensing of the extinguishing agent.
US08028755B2	Quick lock wireline valve/blow-out preventor and methods for making and using same A blow out preventor (BOP) apparatus is disclosed including a quick connection system. The quick connection system comprises at least one actuator receiving aperture including at least one female connector having a female engaging profile and at least actuator cylinder including at least one male connector having a male engaging profile, where the male engaging profile is adapted to register with the female engaging profile upon insertion of an actuator into its corresponding receiving aperture and upon rotation of the actuator through a rotational angle.
US08028754B2	System and method for producing a well using a gas Systems and methods for producing a well using a gas are disclosed herein. A compressed lift gas can be provided to a well to obtain a production stream. The production stream can be separated to obtain the product and a recycle gas stream. The recycle gas stream can be immediately recompressed for use as lift gas, or separated to form a lift gas stream, and a power stream containing natural gasses from the well. The lift gas stream is recycled for use as lift gas, while the power stream can be transported and/or collected for sale, recycled for use as lift gas, or consumed as power for the compressor, based on measurements obtained throughout the system, coupled with practical and economic variables. By supplementing or replacing generated lift gas and/or an external power source with natural gas from the well, the present systems and methods can become self-contained after start-up.
US08028753B2	System, method and apparatus for controlling the flow rate of an electrical submersible pump based on fluid density An electrical submersible pump that regulates pump flow rate based on sensor measurements of the fluid is disclosed. The sensor measures a property of the fluid being processed. The sensor may be located at the intake, discharge or other area of the pump. The sensor measures the relative proportion of gas in the pumped liquid. The pump flow rate is adjusted to maintain a desired level for the gas in a production environment. The pump may be used to operate and control a seabed gas-liquid separation and centrifugal pump system.
US08028742B2	Radiant heating/cooling tubing substrate with in plane bus Modular panels for radiant thermal conditioning systems have special purpose bus tracks for routing tubing. Specifically, these tracks enable the routing of tubing, and specifically tubing from multiple circuits, in-plane, in the floor, ceiling, or walls. Specifically, multiple laterally extending tracks are provided for handling multiple circuits. A modular panel enables the interconnection between tubing held in bus tracks and the arcuate return tracks that are used for the tubing direction changes that are needed for creating serpentine paths of the tubing loops.
US08028741B2	Strip casting apparatus with improved side dam force control Apparatus for continuously casting metal strip includes a pair of counter-rotatable casting rolls laterally positioned to form a nip therebetween through which thin strip can be cast, a pair of confining side dams adjacent the ends of the casting rolls capable of confining a casting pool of molten metal supported on the casting rolls and formed on the casting surfaces above the nip, a metal delivery system disposed above the nip and capable of discharging molten metal to form the casting pool supported on the casting rolls, side dam actuators each capable of applying cyclical axial force to the side dams without leakage, and a control system capable of actuating at least one side dam actuator to cyclically vary the apply force of the side dam against the ends of the casting rolls during a casting campaign.
US08028740B2	Twin roll caster A twin roll caster including chilled rolls, side weirs, and a molten-metal delivery nozzle. Baffles, contiguous with bottoms of end faces of the nozzle, project in a casting pool toward the side weirs to suppress stream of the molten metal into a nip between the rolls. Thus, hot molten metal just after poured into the pool does not instantly reach the nip along the side weirs, and molten metal decreases in temperature with lapse of time after the pouring streams into the nip as the rolls are rotated. As a result, belated formation of solidified shells at and adjacent to outer circumferential edges of the chilled rolls is eliminated. Thus, a strip delivered from the nip between the rolls has no reduced thickness at regions adjacent to lateral edges of the strip and has uniform thickness throughout the width of the strip.
US08028739B2	Inserts with holes for damped products and methods of making and using the same One embodiment of the invention includes a frictional damping insert including a body constructed and arranged to be incorporated into a product and to form at least a portion of a frictional damping structure, the body including lines of weakness constructed and arranged to segment the body into separate sections upon exposure to a molten material.
US08028738B2	Side panel with integrated window shade guide rail A window roller blind for motor vehicles having a guide rail arrangement that also forms an interior panel of the vehicle. The interior panel has a gap that forms a guide groove for guiding movement of the window blind between open and closed positions of the vehicle. The guide groove is undercut by being formed with a slot and a larger sized chamber behind interior panel parts. The chamber is defined either partly or completely within a rail fixed to rear sides of the interior panel parts.
US08028736B2	System for forming reinforcement layers having cross-directionally oriented fibers A system for forming a cross-directional fiber reinforcement layer has a feeder for feeding an array of continuous fiber and a chopped fiber dispenser for distributing generally aligned, closely spaced chopped fibers onto the array of continuous fibers in a cross-directional manner.
US08028728B2	Dispensing apparatus and method for determining the location of a container A dispensing apparatus for determining a location of a container into which at least one of a liquid and ice is dispensed from a refrigerator. A sensor is configured to sense a position of the container, without contacting the container, and to send a first signal indicating the sensed position. A microprocessor is configured to receive the first signal and to send a second signal based on the first signal. An indicator is configured to receive the second signal and to indicate the position of the container.
US08028727B2	Actuating device for a rapid coupling A simple design of an actuating device for a rapid coupling used for transferring gaseous and/or liquid fluids includes a tubular housing and a slide which is movably mounted relative to the housing and is coupled to a lever mechanism that is provided with at least one pivoted lever laterally mounted on the housing. At least one connecting lever extends to the slide on the pivoted lever, thus also obtaining safe handling.
US08028723B2	Method and device to fill receiving containers A receiving container is filled with a predetermined target mass mz of a free-flowing substance from a reservoir with the help of a dosage-dispensing device that dispenses measured doses of the substance. The device has a valve for variably setting the mass flow {dot over (m)} from the reservoir into the receiving container. The device is also able to determine the time t that has elapsed since the beginning of the fill cycle, the mass m of the substance present in the receiving container, and a unit for controlling the valve. The controller unit includes estimating and correction modules. At least once during the fill cycle, the estimating module performs an estimate of the mass {tilde over (m)}(t, t2) that is expected to be present in the receiving container at the end of the fill cycle at the time t2. This estimate is based on the assumptions that from the time t onward the valve is being closed according to a predefined closing-down profile and the fill cycle is completed at the time t2. The correction module compares the mass {tilde over (m)}(t, t2) estimated at the time t to the target mass mz. If the estimated mass {tilde over (m)}(t, t2) is smaller than the target mass mz, the valve is controlled so that the aperture associated with the mass flow {dot over (m)} that exists at the time t will be maintained longer by a differential time segment Δt, and/or the mass flow {dot over (m)} at the time t is increased.
US08028720B2	Valve block The invention relates to a valve block, in particular a hydraulic valve block, which comprises a basic body having a base area and a plurality of blind holes, in particular valve bores, and lamellae, having a plurality of valve actuating devices, in particular electromagnets, and having a plurality of connections, in particular hydraulic connections. The invention is distinguished by the fact that the basic body has an encircling sealing surface, running obliquely relative to the base area, for a protective hood, in particular an oil pan.
US08028715B2	Check valve for vacuum sewage pipe and vacuum sewage system The present invention provides a check valve for use in a vacuum sewage pipe. The check valve includes a body having a sewage inlet and a sewage outlet to be coupled to the vacuum sewage pipe, a flap valve element disposed in the body and rotatably supported by a first shaft, and a closing mechanism. The closing mechanism can keep the flap valve element in a closed state so as to allow the flap valve element to function as a gate valve. The closing mechanism can also limit an opening degree of the flap valve element so as to allow the flap valve element to function as a check valve.
US08028713B2	Underground water storage tank An underground water storage tank which rarely causes water leakage, and which largely increases an amount of water to be stored therein having an internal water storage sub-tank 11 provided by coating an assembly of water-bearing materials 12 obtained by combining multiple water-bearing materials 12 with one another with a first water-impermeable sheet 14; soil pressure absorption plates 26 provided outside the internal water storage sub-tank 11; and a second water-impermeable sheet 27 for coating the soil pressure absorption plates 26. The water-bearing materials are rigid pipes 12 made of resin and the assembly of the water-bearing materials is formed by mutually and parallel coupling the multiple rigid pipes 12 by pipe coupling means 13 in a state that the multiple rigid pipes 12 are vertically set and arranged at predetermined intervals therebetween in a horizontal direction.
US08028712B2	Diaphragm controlled bypass valve A diaphragm controlled bypass valve includes a diaphragm valve portion and a needle valve portion. The diaphragm valve portion regulates pressurized gas supplied from a pump to determine whether or not to open or close a needle valve. The needle valve portion includes an inlet port, an outlet port and a flow pathway defined between the inlet and outlet ports. A needle pin is disposed within the flow pathway and is coupled to a diaphragm positioned within the diaphragm valve portion. When the diaphragm is displaced in response to changes in pressure, the needle valve pin is likewise displaced which opens and closes the flow pathway. A second flowpath disposed in the needle valve portion communicates with the inlet port to redirect the supply of pressurized gas to a relief port.
US08028711B2	Hot tap clamp A hot tap clamp. The clamp includes a first clamp part, a second clamp part, a fastener for stable fastening of the clamp parts around a section of a pipeline provided with a hot tap coupling, a pipe socket fixedly integrated with one of the clamp parts at an inner end and extending outward from the clamp part to an outer end, a hub on the outer end of the pipe socket, the pipe socket at the inner end going through the clamp part abutting the surface of the pipeline, such that the pipe socket can be sealingly welded to the pipeline by internal welding.
US08028710B2	Water-powered hand-washing system and method A hand-washing system for washing fingernail beds and cuticular regions of human fingers and thumbs (collectively “digits”). The hand-washing system includes a work enclosure for containing ones of the digits and a high-velocity, high-flow water spray during a washing operation. The work enclosure defines an interior space, part of which defines an energy-dissipation region that, during use, provides a water reservoir for dissipating energy in the high-velocity, high flow water spray. The work enclosure includes a high-energy spray nozzle and a digit portal sized to receive the four fingers of one hand simultaneously in closed-fingered, upwardly-curled configuration. A mixing valve may be provided to allow a user to adjust the temperature of the water during washing. A quick-disconnect fluid-coupling assembly may also be provided and be used to quickly select between work enclosures of differing size.
US08028706B2	Method for controlling the alertness of a human subject and a light source for use in this method The invention relates to a method for controlling the alertness of a human subject and a light source for use in this method and use of a light source for this method. The method comprises exposure of a human subject during an exposure period to suitable light radiation without substantially influencing the phase of a melatonin cycle. Melatonin is a sleep-hormone that can be used to control the alertness of a human subject. The suitable light radiation being specified by an output fraction of melatonin suppressive radiation (Melatonin Watt/Watt) and light output (lumen/Watt), the output fraction and light output being adjusted to obtain the desired effect on the phase of said cycle.
US08028703B1	Sleep mouthpiece Sleep mouthpieces are provided. One such mouthpiece includes an intraoral component including first and second troughs configured to receive a user's upper and lower teeth or ridges. The troughs are separated by a distance, thereby providing an opening that can allow mouth breathing. The mouthpiece includes an extraoral component connected to the intraoral component by first and second columns. The columns can be positioned at first and second ends of the intraoral component. The columns can also be positioned at first and second ends of the opening. The columns can also be positioned between the ends of the opening and the ends of the intraoral component. The extraoral component includes first and second retention portions extending from the first and second columns away from a center of the intraoral component and away from the opening. The first and second retention portions are configured to contact the user's face.
US08028700B2	Full face flexible oxygen mask for use with flight helmets The full face flexible oxygen mask for use with flight helmets includes an elastic face seal with an oronasal cone that seals around the nose and mouth of the wearer, and flexible sealing flaps along the perimeter of the face seal to adapt the face piece of the mask to seal against the surface of a flight helmet. The mask face piece has two large sealing surfaces or channels down each side of the mask that overlap and flex to adapt to seal to a variety of flight helmets. The top of the face seal has an inner and outer flap that work together to seal the exposed face visible between the sides of the flight helmet.
US08028699B2	Full face respiratory mask with integrated nasal interface A patient interface that reliably and comfortably seals a user's face by providing an oral-nasal mask that includes an integrated nasal interface. The patient interface includes a seal member having an oral cushion portion configured to surround the user's mouth and a nasal interface portion that provides an interface with the user's nose. The seal member, including the oral cushion portion and the nasal interface portion, is a unitary member. Finally, the nasal interface portion remains below the bridge of the nose.
US08028696B2	Display integrated vibrating alarm An alarm system and method for use with a breathing apparatus that provides a source of breathable air to a user/diver. A tactile signal is generated in response to a signal representing at least one parameter corresponding to the breathing apparatus status, and the tactile signal can be both felt and heard by the user. The tactile signal may be generated in combination with a visual and/or an additional audible alarm. The tactile signal may be a vibration. The alarm may be worn on the face, either on the mask or on the mouthpiece. The vibrator serves two functions, one as a tactile alarm that the diver can feel during operation, and a second as an auditory alarm through bone-conduction of sound. The tactile alarm indicates to the user/diver that his particular unit is the one transmitting an alarm signal, and cannot be mistaken for any other device. The tactile signal may be generated to have one or more signal characteristics that are modulated to convey additional information about the parameter or parameters being monitored.
US08028693B2	Breathable gas apparatus with humidifier A method of sealably locating a humidifier water tub in a humidifier base comprising positioning a rear surface of the humidifier water tub to abut a humidifier seal to form an air path from a flow generator outlet into an interior of the water tub, and pressing a humidifier lid of the humidifier to engage a surface of a tub lid of the humidifier water tub to form a sealed air path between an interior of the humidifier water tub and an air delivery conduit connector positioned on the humidifier lid.
US08028692B2	Multi-sectioned conduit assembly A conduit assembly that delivers a flow of breathing gas to an airway of user. The conduit assembly includes a first flexible segment having a first end portion, a second end portion, and a first lumen defined therein from the first end portion to the second end portion. The conduit assembly also includes a second flexible segment having a third end portion, a fourth end portion, and a second lumen defined therein from the third end portion to the fourth end portion. A first swivel connector is coupled to the second end portion of the first segment and the third end portion of the second segment such that the first segment is rotatable relative the second segment.
US08028685B2	Adjustable cable guide for archery bow An adjustable cable guide for archery bow provides a housing which supports a pair of rotatable pulleys upon which the cam cables of the bow are received. A slide mounting of each pulley supporting segment is adjustable by a threaded adjustment screw. The entire adjustable cable guide assembly is supportable upon the riser directly or may be supported upon the conventional cable guide bar which extends from the riser.
US08028681B1	Fuel vaporization apparatus and method for use in combustion engines This invention is an after market stand alone complete replacement fuel delivery system that works independent of and after disconnecting the standard liquid fuel delivery system for a fuel injected internal combustion engine. This device creates pressurized gasoline vapors at approximately 35 psi to 90 psi mixed and charged with large amounts of processed compressed air to achieve a gasoline vapor in it's purest form to utilize substantially more of the gasoline's energy potential which will greatly reduce engine emissions to much lower levels and improving the general performance of a gasoline fueled internal combustion engine essentially in the same pressurized gas form as found in a propane or natural gas fuel system, and to be refitted to existing gasoline fuel injected engines.
US08028680B2	Fuel system for liquefied petroleum injection engine A fuel system for an LPI engine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a reservoir disposed in a fuel tank, a recovery pipe inserted in the reservoir, and a fuel pump disposed in the reservoir and supplying LPI fuel, wherein liquefied fuel mixed with gaseous fuel recovered through the recovery pipe is separated in the reservoir and the liquefied fuel is pumped again by the fuel pump.
US08028677B2	Assembly and method for controlling an air intake runner An assembly for controlling an air intake runner of an air intake manifold. The assembly includes a cartridge including a plurality of compartments. Each of the compartments has a plurality of that are joined to define a central opening and an outer perimeter. Adjacent compartments are spaced apart to define a groove between each of the compartments. The assembly also includes bushing carriers that are configured to be snap-fit into one of the grooves of the cartridge. The assembly further includes bushings configured to rotatably fit within the central openings of the bushing carriers. Each of the bushings has an outer rim and an open center. Flaps including a slot and having a shape configured to substantially adjustably seal the central opening are also included and a shaft is included that extends through the slots of the flaps and the open centers of the bushings.
US08028667B2	Valve timing adjusting apparatus A valve timing adjusting apparatus includes a driving-side rotor, a driven-side rotor, and a bias mechanism. The bias mechanism includes a projection portion that is rotatable synchronously with the one of the driving-side and driven-side rotors and that contacts a contact part of the other one of the driving-side and driven-side rotors. The contact part includes a receiver part that is configured to increase the restoring force of the resilient member when the other one of the driving-side and driven-side rotors is rotated relative to the one of the driving-side and driven-side rotors in the advance direction or in the retard direction.
US08028666B2	Concentric camshaft with bearing sleeve and method of debris removal A camshaft may include a first shaft, a bearing sleeve member located on and fixed to the first shaft, and a first lobe member located on the first shaft and displaceable between first and second positions. The first lobe member may be axially offset relative to the bearing sleeve member when in the first position to allow for machining of an outer surface of the bearing sleeve member and removal of machining debris from the outer surface. The first lobe member may be axially aligned with and bearingly supported on the bearing sleeve member when in the second position.
US08028664B2	Device for generating the superheated steam The present invention relates to a device for generating superheated steam, comprising: a housing (10) having a cylindrical body and a combustion chamber with a hollow space portion formed in the cylindrical body, the housing having a discharge outlet (13) formed at a bottom end thereof so as to allow superheated steam to be discharged to the outside therethrough; a cover (14) mounted on a top end of the housing and having an injection inlet (12) formed at a top end thereof so as to allow steam to be injected into the housing 10 therethrough; a plurality of interval-maintaining means (20) horizontally stackingly arranged on top of one another in the combustion chamber of the housing in such a fashion that interval-maintaining means of even and odd number rows are alternately disposed and equidistantly spaced apart from one another, the interval-maintaining means of even and odd number rows having different outer diameters so as to define a fluid-communicating passageway (25) between the inner wall of the combustion chamber (11) and the interval-maintaining means (20); and a plurality of heating means (30) penetratingly mounted vertically in the plurality of interval-maintaining means (20) in such a fashion as to be arranged spaced apart from one another equidistantly at a peripheral portion of the interval-maintaining means so as to heat fluid passing through the fluid-communicating passageway (25).
US08028663B2	Compliant holder device for animal imaging and surgery A compliant holder device for constraining an animal includes a device body, a nose cone, and compliant flexure arms having contact surfaces for constraining the animal's head. In use, an animal is placed on the device body, and the nose of the animal is placed in the nose cone to constrain the skull at the nose. The compliant flexure arms are flexed to increase the distance between the contact surfaces of respective compliant flexure arms, and the ears of the animal are placed between the contact surfaces of the flexed compliant flexure arms, wherein the flex in the compliant flexure provides pressure to and constrains the skull at the ears.
US08028662B2	Method of training a dog to chew acceptable objects through scent marking and chemical composition thereof A positive-reinforced method of training a dog to chew or mouth only appropriate household items and chew toys. The method includes scent-training the dog (or puppy) to recognize a particular distinctive scent not normally found in nature as applied to an acceptable chewing object. The dog is introduced to the distinctive scent and encouraged to chew the marked acceptable chewing object. Each time the dog recognizes the scent, the dog is encouraged to chew the scented chewing object or some other acceptable chewing object marked with the distinctive scent and rewarded. The dog is tested with at least one unmarked object. The dog is trained once the dog can discriminate between the scent-marked object or objects and the unmarked object or objects. From there, the scent may be applied to other household items that are acceptable chewing/mouthing items (e.g., other chew toys). By absence of the scent, the dog recognizes that it cannot chew on unacceptable items (e.g., furniture, shoes). The scent may be applied to acceptable chewing/mouthing items in liquid form or as a gel. The scent is aromatic to dogs but not to people. The invention also includes the chemical composition of the scent used in the method training. The preferred chemical composition comprises of one part animal secretion, one part disparate animal secretion, and three parts aqueous solution.
US08028659B2	Self-cleaning litter box A self-cleaning litter box (50) provides various advantages over the prior art. In particular, in one embodiment, the self-cleaning litter box (50) is configured to use a one piece litter cartridge (20) having a litter compartment (26) and a waste compartment 24. In another embodiment, the cartridge (20) is non-compartmentalized. In another embodiment, the system includes a rake assembly (56) configured with a drive assembly (58) that is protected from waste contamination. In accordance with the invention, the self-cleaning litter box (50) is configured to be used with all types of litter including crystal type litter.
US08028658B2	Liquid bird feeder A liquid bird feeder provides a liquid container having a bottom opening, a liquid tray adapted to attach to the liquid container and adapted to immerse the bottom opening in liquid. The liquid tray includes a bottom port passing through the liquid tray and vertically aligned with the bottom opening, and a valve mechanism adapted to selectively couple the bottom port of the liquid tray to the bottom opening for filling purposes, or to close the bottom port and couple the bottom opening to the liquid tray for supplying liquid from the liquid container to the liquid tray.
US08028646B2	Coating medical devices Methods and systems for coating at least a portion of a medical device (e.g., a stent structure) include providing a plurality of coating particles (e.g., monodisperse coating particles) in a defined volume. For example, the particles may be provided using one or more nozzle structures, wherein each nozzle structure includes at least one opening terminating at a dispensing end. The plurality of coating particles may be provided in the defined volume by dispensing a plurality of microdroplets having an electrical charge associated therewith from the dispensing ends of the one or more nozzle structures through use of a nonuniform electrical field between the dispensing ends and the medical device. Electrical charge is concentrated on the particle as the microdroplet evaporates. With a plurality of coating particles provided in the defined volume, such particles can be moved towards at least one surface of the medical device to form a coating thereon (e.g., using an electric field and/or a thermophoretic effect).
US08028639B2	Transom for boat A tuned transom for a marine vessel comprising a boat hull having a bow and an aft section, a port side and starboard side with a centerline. The transom comprises an outer constraining layer positioned in the aft section enclosing the boat hull, an inner constraining layer which is a separate sheet from the outer constraining layer and positioned in the hull spaced-apart forwardly from the outer constraining layer to form a space between the inner constraining layer and the outer constraining layer, an a constrained damping layer adapted to bond the outer constraining layer to the inner constraining layer; wherein the constrained damping layer comprises an adhesive and means for securing the edges of the outer and the inner constraining layers to the hull.
US08028637B2	Method of intercepting and yawing a sailing vessel with external propulsion means A method for intercepting and yawing an errant sailing vessel is disclosed, wherein the vessel might have been hijacked or malfunctioned and in danger of colliding with an object. The method comprises dispatching a watercraft to approach the sailing vessel and secures itself to one side of the sailing vessel's hull. Preferably, a second watercraft is secured to the other side of the vessel's hull. At least one of the watercrafts is then operated to direct propulsion thrust to yaw the vessel in a desired direction. Preferably still, the first and second watercrafts are each secured respectively to the right and left sides of the vessel's hull proximate to the stem or bow end. The first (right side) watercraft then operates a fluid propulsion which thrust is directed away from the vessel's right side while the second (left side) watercraft's propulsion is on standby. As a result, the vessel is turned rightward or clockwise. Conversely, the first watercraft may be put on standby while the second watercraft's propulsion is operated such that the thrust is directed away from the vessel's left side, thereby causing the vessel to turn leftward or anti-clockwise.
US08028636B2	Stern shape of displacement-type marine vessel A stern shape of a displacement-type marine vessel enables reduction of the hull resistance and prevents propeller cavitation. The displacement-type marine vessel which travels in a velocity range in which the Froude number is smaller than the last hump and the stern includes knuckle lines connecting knuckle points provided on the surface of the hull, from a starting point in front of a propeller to an end point behind the propeller. A portion of the stern located inside the knuckle line in the direction of the width of the hull has a dome shape with upward curvature, and the length of the portion which has the dome shape is set to 10% or more of the entire hull length or at least the diameter of the propeller.
US08028630B2	Folding table arrangement A folding-table arrangement includes a supporting device, a table housing accommodating a table top in an essentially vertical stowed position and a table top which can be adjusted from an essentially vertical stowed position in the table housing into an essentially horizontal use position. The table housing is arranged in a height-adjustable manner on the supporting device and, in the use position, the table top has its underside supported on the table housing.
US08028624B2	Rock-blasting cartridge and blasting method A blasting cartridge comprising an elongated sleeve extending along an axis A and having a first end and a second end; the first end has a first sleeve closure with an opening for holding a detonator; the second end has a second sleeve closure; a space is provided between the first sleeve closure and the second sleeve closure for holding a blasting explosive; wherein the second end is provided with a connector means for releasably connecting the second end of the cartridge with a first end of an adjacent cartridge and comprising a firing pin means for impinging upon a detonator in the first end of the adjacent cartridge when the blasting explosive is detonated by actuation of the detonator in the first end of the cartridge.
US08028623B2	Contact-pressure adjusting method and contact-pressure adjusting system for liquid application machine Disclosed is a contact-pressure adjusting method and a contact-pressure adjusting system, each of which automatically adjusts the contact pressure between two rotors, for a liquid application machine including: a first rotor to which liquid is supplied; a second rotor to which the liquid is supplied from the first rotor; and a contact-pressure adjusting unit for adjusting the contact pressure between the first rotor and the second rotor. By using a temperature measuring unit, measured is: the temperature of at least one of the surfaces of the first and second rotors; the temperature of at least one of the liquid on the surface of the first rotor and the liquid on the surface of the second rotor; or the temperature of at least one of the vicinity of the first rotor and the vicinity of the second rotor. The contact-pressure adjusting unit is adjusted in accordance with the measured temperature.
US08028622B2	Stackable container systems for ink pads and method A container system for containing a plurality of ink pads comprises a cover defining a cover mounting portion and a plurality of bases. Each base defines a support wall portion defining a support surface, a first wall portion defining a first base mounting portion, and a second wall portion defining a second base mounting portion. At least one of the ink pads is supported on each of the support surfaces. The cover mounting portion is capable of engaging the first base mounting portions to detachably attach the cover to one of the plurality of bases to define a cover chamber. The first base mounting portions are capable of engaging the second base mounting portions to detachably attach at least one of the bases to at least another of the bases to define at least one base chamber. The container system operates in a stack mode. In the stack mode, the cover is detachably attached to a first one of the plurality of bases to define the cover chamber and the first one of the plurality of bases is detachably attached to a second one of the plurality of bases to define a first base chamber.
US08028621B2	Three-dimensional structures and methods of fabricating the same using a printing plate Methods of fabricating three-dimensional structures comprise: contacting a printing plate face with a suspension comprising particles to arrange the particles at predefined positions on the printing plate face, the predefined positions comprising a first position laterally adjacent to a second position; positioning the printing plate with the printing plate face turned toward a substrate and the first position aligned to a protrusion on the substrate; contacting the protrusion with a first layer of particles disposed at the first position of the printing plate to transfer the first layer of particles to a protrusion surface; moving the printing plate laterally to align the second position to the protrusion; and contacting the first layer of particles disposed on the protrusion surface with a second layer of particles disposed at the second position of the printing plate to transfer the second layer of particles to on top of the first layer of particles.
US08028620B2	System for automated application of inoculants onto forage materials and measurement of moisture for optimum application An automated system and method are provided for application of inoculant products onto forage material. Real time data measurements are taken for relative humidity and moisture content of the forage material in order to timely adjust the dispense rate of the inoculant applied to the forage material. Data gathering capabilities are provided with this system controller to enable an operator to view, adjust, and record various production records, as well as detailed information as to the amounts of inoculant applied. The components associated with the system of the present invention includes an inoculant bin or container including a dispense auger which dispenses a controlled amount of inoculant which is then conveyed to the intake opening of the baling machine the forage material enters the machine. The control system includes various sensors positioned at the intake opening of the baling machine which measures moisture content, and optionally the mass or volume of the incoming forage material. The control system provides a number of user interface options for controlling the dispensing of the inoculant product, as well as capturing data relating to the operation of the baling machine and the application of the inoculant product.
US08028619B2	Cooking apparatus A cooking apparatus including a cooking chamber having an opening, a door configured to open and close the opening of the cooking chamber, the door including a channel and an inlet to allow communication between the cooking chamber and the channel, and an opening/closing unit to open and close the inlet in the door. A door including a first surface, a second surface spaced from the first surface to define a channel between the first surface and the second surface, an inlet formed in the second surface, the inlet being in flow communication with the channel, an outlet formed in one of the first surface and the second surface, the outlet being in flow communication with the channel, and an opening/closing unit to open and close the inlet in the second surface is also provided.
US08028618B2	Cooker apparatus and method A continuous cooker having a conveyor capable of repositioning product and cleaning itself of debris and a method for its operation. The cooker includes a conveyor that transports food atop a conveyor belt to a cooking chamber. Upper and lower diverting rollers guide the belt along an S-shaped product-repositioning path segment. The lower diverting roller is rotated at a speed different from the speed of the conveyor belt to cause the belt to slip on the roller's periphery, which effects a scraping action against the conveying side of the belt to dislodge debris.
US08028615B2	Clamping device and a regulating device The invention relates to a clamping device for a rod which moves in an axial translatory or rotating manner. Said clamping device comprises a housing, a clamping sleeve which is axially fixed therein, a tensioning piston which can be displaced in the housing embodied as a cylinder, and a spring device for pre-tensioning the piston in the direction of the clamping sleeve in the locking state. Said spring device includes at least one helical plate spring which, in the event of a fracture, maintains the holding force and the dynamic course of the same. In one embodiment, the at least one helical plate spring is coaxially arranged in relation to the rod. In another embodiment, a plurality of helical plate springs are arranged on the circumference of the rod such that they are parallel with the axis thereof, for distribution of a pre-tensioning force acting on the spring device.
US08028614B2	Wobble plate compressor An object of the present invention is to provide a wobble plate compressor equipped with a mechanism for preventing the rotation of the wobble plate which is simply structured, producible at low cost, and does not cause heavy noise or vibration.A wobble plate compressor comprises a main shaft driven by a power source, a wobble plate driven by the main shaft to swing, a piston connected to the wobble plate by a connecting rod, and a cylinder bore extending parallel to the main shaft to accept the piston. The connecting rod is connected to the wobble plate by a ball joint, precession of the connecting rod is allowed when the piston moves reciprocally, and the outer circumferential surface of the piston is forced against the inner circumferential surface of the cylinder bore when the wobble plate is driven by the main shaft to rotate and the connecting rod is driven by the rotating wobble plate to swing beyond the range of the precession. Thus, rotation of the wobble plate is prevented.
US08028611B2	Gun stabilizer A damping device is disclosed which dampens movement of a weapon on an axis which is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the weapon.
US08028609B2	Work sheet processing system A work sheet processing system enables the effective utilization, of a redundant work sheet corresponding to a material work sheet from which product work sheets have been cut. The work sheet processing system includes a work sheet processing machine that performs a processing operation of cutting a product word sheet from a material work sheet, a redundant work sheet stocker that stores a redundant work sheet that is a remaining part of the material work sheet from which the product work sheet has been cut by the work sheet processing machine, and carry-in and carry-out means for carrying out the redundant work sheet stored in the redundant work sheet stocker into the original work sheet processing machine or another work sheet processing machine.
US08028607B2	Locking flex-head ratchet wrench A ratcheting tool including a handle formed with an integral yoke at a first end and a tool head coupled to the yoke at a pivot. The tool head has a toothed hub facing rearwardly of the pivot and into the yoke. A locking spool is rotatably carried in the yoke adjacent the toothed hub. The locking spool has a first face, a second face, and a first tooth extending along both the first face and the second face and engaging the toothed hub. The locking spool is rotatable between a first position in which the first face is adjacent the toothed hub, thereby locking the tool head in a selected angular position with respect to the handle, and a second position in which the second face is adjacent the toothed hub such that the tool head is pivotable about the pivot.
US08028604B2	Methods and systems for turning rotary components within rotary machines A method and apparatus of turning rotary components of a rotary machine having a brake disc includes providing a turning gear assembly. The turning gear assembly includes a gear plate, a pinion gear and a gear motor coupled to the pinion gear. The method also includes coupling the turning gear assembly within the rotary machine using the gear plate such that the pinion gear engages with the brake disc, detecting a motion of the rotary machine, and rotating the brake disc using the pinion gear based on the detected motion.
US08028597B2	Low horsepower transmission A low horsepower transmission is disclosed. In one embodiment, a drive shaft is operably coupled to a prime mover and a driven shaft is axially aligned with the drive shaft and operably coupled to a rotary load. Two sets of geared wheels are aligned and rotatably mounted to opposite sides of the drive shaft and the driven shaft. A shuttle clutch positioned on the driven shaft is operable to reciprocate between mating engagement with a clutch associated with the first set of geared wheels and a clutch associated with the second set of geared wheels. The engagement of the shuttle clutch determines which set of geared wheels will transmit torque.
US08028596B2	Transmission device having at least one shift element which can be actuated by means of an actuator arrangement which has at least one electrical component A transmission device (1) having a switching element, which is actuated by at least one electric component (5, 17) which is part of an actuator (4). The electric actuator component is linked to a countershaft (3) of the transmission and rotates at the speed of countershaft (3) during operation, and is functionally connected through an electric transformer rotary transformer device (15) with further enclosure mounted components of the transmission device (1). Via the transformer device (15), electric energy and/or data can be exchanged, through collector ring contacts, using inductive or capacitive coupling between the enclosure mounted components of transmission device (1) and at least one electric actuator component (5, 17) which is linked with the countershaft (3).
US08028590B2	Traction apparatus and traction force control method of traction apparatus In the traction apparatus, a control circuit has the following traction control process portions. First, a first traction control process portion winds up the slack portion of a wire by a motor to eliminate the slack of the wire connected to a body to be pulled. Next, a second traction control process portion converts a set traction force that is set by an operation portion to a traction amount to calculate a converted value and, by defining a predetermined amount of a traction amount set based on the converted value as an initial target value, continuously winds up the wire by the motor to that target value. Next, a third traction control process portion detects the traction force that is being applied to the body to be pulled by a load cell, calculates a drive stop time of the motor by defining the set traction force as a final target value on the basis of a detected output of the load cell and drives the drive mechanism, and stops the driving of the motor at a point of reaching the drive stop time.
US08028586B2	Load cell and system for measuring forces based on optical spectra shifts A load cell having an optical micro-resonator in a housing formed of high thermally conductive material. Upon application of a force to a surface of the housing, the micro-resonator is squeezed and changes in shape and refractive index, thereby changing the resonant frequency of the micro-resonator and causing a shift in the spectrum of wavelengths of light that is introduced to the micro-resonator. This shift in the spectrum of wavelengths is representative of the force applied to the housing of the load cell.
US08028582B2	Marker detection apparatus and marker detection method A marker detection apparatus detects a marker attached to a target sample from samples flowing in a sample flow, including: an electric field formation section that forms a quasi-electrostatic field in a path of the sample flow; and a detection section that detects, when the target sample labeled by the marker that is a particle made from a piezoelectric or electrostrictive substance of a unique vibration frequency gets into the quasi-electrostatic field, the vibration of the particle.
US08028580B2	Inertial measurement unit with enhanced acceleration withstand capability The present invention relates to an inertial measurement unit with enhanced resistance to acceleration, and it is characterized in that it comprises at least five accelerometers (Acc1 to Acc5), the sensing axes of which are arranged at various positions on the generatrix of a conical surface, and in that they comprise a device for detecting saturation of the accelerometers and a device for detecting abnormal biases.
US08028578B2	Composite sensor A composite sensor includes an angular velocity sensor element, an acceleration sensor element, a signal processing IC for processing signals from the angular velocity sensor element and the acceleration sensor element, an inner package for accommodating the angular velocity sensor element, the acceleration sensor element, and the signal processing IC; a coupler connected to this inner package, and a fixing member connected to this coupler for holding the inner package via this coupler. The coupler is elastically deformable. One of the acceleration sensor element and the signal processing IC is located at the right with respect to the center of the inner package, and the other of the acceleration sensor element and the signal processing IC is located at the left with respect to the center of the inner package. The composite sensor angular maintains its characteristics of the angular velocity sensor element while the angular velocity sensor element and the acceleration sensor element are accommodated in one package.
US08028577B2	Gravity survey with relative and absolute gravimeters A gravity survey is conducted by obtaining relative gravity measurements from a plurality of survey points using a relative gravimeter, obtaining absolute gravity measurements from a subset of a lesser plurality of the survey points designated as combination survey points, determining a correction factor related to any difference between the relative and absolute gravity measurements at each of the combination survey points, and correcting the relative gravity measurements made at the survey points which are not combination survey points using the correction factor. The absolute and corrected relative gravity measurements at the survey points constitute the gravity survey.
US08028574B2	Engine oil level detecting device An oil level detecting device for detecting an oil level in an oil storing chamber formed in a crankcase of an engine includes a fan, a power generator and an oil level determination unit. The fan is rotated by an oil flow produced by dipping up oil for lubricating the engine. In response to rotation of the fan, the generator generates a corresponding amount of electric power on the basis of which the oil level determination unit determines the oil level.
US08028573B2	Tool set for the insertion of a flow monitoring device in a fluid piping, and implementation method therefore The invention particularly relates to a tool set for setting-up a flow monitoring device (1) in a fluid piping (K).This tool set comprises at least one hollow semi-flexible hose (31) provided with a jack (33) bearing the device (1) in a sheath, a pump (32) monitoring the pressure inside the hose, a support member (4) slidingly crossed by the hose (31), and an introduction airlock (5) carried by the support member and making it possible to sealingly insert the hose in the piping (K).
US08028569B2	Method and device for adapting the efficiency of a cooler in the return circuit of exhaust gas in an internal combustion engine A method for providing a specification about an efficiency of a cooler for recirculated exhaust gas in an internal combustion engine includes: measuring a temperature of the recirculated exhaust gas cooled by the cooler; and ascertaining the specification about the efficiency of the cooler as a function of the measured temperature of the cooled recirculated exhaust gas. With the aid of the specification about the efficiency of the cooler it is possible to determine a failure of the cooler or to calculate a temperature of the recirculated exhaust gas in order implement an engine control system of the internal combustion engine on the basis of a reliable temperature specification that is not influenced by lag effects.
US08028563B2	Pressure interference testing for estimating hydraulic isolation A cased hole pressure test tool is used to determine the integrity of cement between two points in a borehole in terms of permeability or transmissibility. The test tool drills at least one probe hole through the casing up to the cement. In one embodiment, two probes are set and the dissipation of a pressure pulse through the cement initiated by the first probe is observed by the second probe. In another embodiment, one probe hole is in hydraulic communication with the borehole fluid and a single offset probe is set in another probe hole. Fluid (water) is then added to the borehole to cause a pressure increase in the borehole fluid. Detection of the pressure increase through the cement by the offset probe is indicative of a loss of hydraulic isolation. Packers may be used to isolate the portion of the borehole under test. A mechanism for generating a pressure pulse of known magnitude is also described.
US08028562B2	High pressure and high temperature chromatography Methods and related systems are described for high pressure chromatographic analysis. The described system includes a flowpath adapted to flow a mobile phase and the sample at high pressures, an injector adapted to inject the fluid sample into a flowpath, a separation column adapted to operate at high pressures for separating various components, a detector and a processor that calculates the amount of at least one component of the fluid sample. The system can operate a pressures above 20 atm or even 100 atm, and temperatures above about 100 degrees Celsius. The system can deployed in a wellbore in a subterranean rock formation, and include fluid collection system for obtaining the fluid sample downhole. The system can also be located close to a wellhead and includes a tap in fluid communication with a surface flowline carrying produced fluids and the injector.
US08028561B2	Hydrogen sensor with air access The invention is directed at a method of sensing hydrogen gas in a liquid comprising: providing a measuring device comprising a hydrogen sensing chamber and a palladium hydrogen sensor mounted in contact with said chamber, positioning a hydrogen permeable membrane between the liquid and the hydrogen sensor and creating a headspace, selectively providing air to the sensor headspace, thereby bringing air into contact with said palladium sensor to refresh the palladium, after the palladium sensor is refreshed shutting off air flow to the sensor headspace, bringing liquid into said chamber, allowing hydrogen to pass through the membrane and reach equilibrium, and reading the hydrogen concentration.
US08028560B2	Handheld brake Vise pliers with duck bill jaws and a brake attached thereto, having utility as a vise pliers tool and/or as a handheld sheet metal brake.
US08028559B2	Flying roller hemming anvil process A roller hemming system for edge hemming vehicle closures from nested metal panels includes an anvil robot moveably supporting a hemming anvil having a working surface, a clamping spider cooperable with the anvil robot for clamping the nested metal panels on the working surface, an anvil register including a base and a registration feature for matingly positioning the hemming anvil thereto, a hemming robot including a multi-axis controllable arm, a roller hemming apparatus mounted on a distal end of the multi-axis arm, the roller hemming apparatus being moveable along edges of the nested metal panels on the anvil to hem the panels together.
US08028558B2	Method and apparatus for forming of panels and similar parts The invention presents method and apparatus for forming of large thin panels and similar parts having integral stiffeners at one side of a board. The method includes progressive forming of preheated billets into sculptured dies of corresponding length and width by a forging die of substantially identical width and short length with slightly inclined and flat forging surfaces providing a smoothly convergent working zone, and a periodical transfer of the sculptured die into the working zone between successive strokes of the forging die. Control of the material flow is performed by selection of a ratio of the working zone length to the billet thickness, variable contact friction at both dies and application of additional compressive forces to the billet at ends of the working zone. For semi-continuous processing of very long parts, the sculptured die is composed by plurality of sectioned elements. Embodiments of the method are conditions of isothermal and super plastic forming of light alloys with sub-micron grained structures.
US08028557B2	Methods and apparatus for forming stiffening structures in a strip material Methods and apparatus of forming stiffening structures in a material are disclosed. In an example method, a first bend line is formed in the material and a portion of the material is drawn toward the first bend line to form an intermediate stiffening structure. A second bend line is then formed adjacent and parallel to the first bend line so that the intermediate stiffening structure is located between the first and second bend lines. A plurality of stiffening structures is then formed in the intermediate stiffening structure without substantially stretching the material.
US08028556B2	Key ring with tamper-evident closure member, kit for assembling a key ring, and method of using same A key ring apparatus is designed to provide visual evidence of tampering. The key ring apparatus includes a main loop member having adjacent end portions with substantially equal diameters. The key ring apparatus also includes a hollow tubular sleeve that receives the main loop end portions, and is crimped into place thereon after keys have been placed on the main loop member. The tubular sleeve may have a pair of crimping indication indicators thereon, to show where to crimp the sleeve onto the main loop of the key ring apparatus. One or both of the main loop member and the sleeve may have a unique serial identification number thereon.
US08028555B2	Preassembled cam lock assembly A preassembled cam lock assembly comprising is disclosed which includes a housing defining a throughbore configured to receive an interchangeable lock core. A tail piece is fixedly secured on a rear face of the housing. The tail piece defines a stepped bore including an arc-shaped cutout. Each end of the arc-shaped cutout defines a stop surface. A cam driver is configured to be rotatably retained in the stepped bore of the tail piece. The cam driver includes a first end defining an arc shaped lost motion slot and a second end adapted to engage a cam. The cam driver has a plurality of spaced bores which are dimensioned to receive a driver pin which is movably positioned within the cutout of the tail piece between the stop surfaces. A cam is secured to the second end of the cam driver adjacent the tail piece. A drive member is positioned within the throughbore of the housing and is adapted to engage an interchangeable lock core such that actuation of the interchangeable lock core effects rotation of the cam driver. The drive member includes a drive pin which is slidably positioned within the lost motion slot of the cam driver such that rotation of the drive member moves the drive pin through the lost motion slot such that the driver pin engages an end of the lost motion slot to effect rotation of the cam driver.
US08028553B2	Modular electromechanical lock cylinder A lock cylinder with a lock cylinder housing is provided. A knob shaft, rotatable by way of a knob, is mounted to rotate on one side or both sides of the lock cylinder. An authorization signal causes at least one electromechanically operating coupling device to connect a lock element to rotate in unison with the knob shaft and in order to operate a lock. The authorization signal is generated by evaluation electronics based on an input or input signal. It is proposed that at least one reading unit with an input unit to record the input and/or a receiving unit to receive the input signal is present, that the reading unit with the input unit and/or receiving unit is arranged in at least one knob and are spatially separated from the evaluation electronics, that the knob is connected electrically and mechanically releasable to the knob shaft, and that the reading unit generates, from the input or input signal, an access signal that can be evaluated by the evaluation electronics.
US08028551B2	Secure mounting arrangements for a lock assembly A mountable lock includes a lock body and a retaining member. The lock body is configured to be secured to an external structure by at least one fastening member. The lock body includes a lock interface movable from a locking condition to an unlocking condition in response to proper user manipulation of the lock interface. The retaining member includes a first end receivable in a first opening of the lock body and lockingly engageable with the lock body when the lock interface is in the locking condition, the first end being disengageable from the first opening when the lock interface is in the unlocking condition. The at least one fastening member is accessible through a passageway in the lock body that is blocked when the retaining member is in locking engagement with the lock body, thereby preventing disassembly of the lock body from the external structure.
US08028547B2	Warp knitted fabric, method of manufacturing the same, and knit structure of warp knitted fabric A warp knitted fabric having the isotropy of strength. The warp knitted fabric is provided with a fabric weave and insertion yarn groups (14, 16). The insertion yarn group (14) comprises four yarns (Y4a-Y4d) of the same type. The insertion yarn group (16) comprises four yarns (Y5a-Y5d) of the same type. The yarns (Y4a-Y4d, Y5a-Y5d) are inserted into a warp-knitted fabric weave in the warp direction while being arranged parallel to each other at an interval of one wale in the weft direction. Each of the yarns (Y4a-Y4d, Y5a-Y5d) comprises a portion (14a) extending as a whole in the direction crossing the warp direction, a portion (14b) extending as a whole in the direction crossing the warp direction, and a portion (14c) extending as a whole in the direction extending along the warp direction and connecting the portions (14a, 14b) to each other. One of the yarns (Y4a-Y4d) is overlapped with a corresponding one of the yarns (Y5a-Y5d) when viewed from the thickness direction.
US08028544B2	High delivery temperature isopipe materials Isopipes (13) for making a glass or a glass-ceramic using a fusion process are provided. The isopipes are made from a silicon nitride refractory material that is: (a) produced in block form in an atmosphere having a pO2 of less than 0.1 using less than 10 weight percent of one or more sintering aids, (b) machined into an isopipe configuration, and (c) exposed to a partial pressure of oxygen equal to or greater than 0.1 for a period of time and at a temperature sufficient to form a SiO2 layer (31) which exhibits substantially only a passive oxidation mechanism. The SiO2 layer (31) serves as a protective barrier for further oxidation of the silicon nitride during use of the isopipe (13). The isopipes (13) exhibit less sag during use than isopipes composed of zircon.
US08028543B2	Tempering bent glass sheets An apparatus for tempering a bent glass sheet is disclosed. The apparatus comprises means for conveying the sheet through the apparatus and a pair of blastheads for quenching the sheet with quench gas. Each blasthead comprises a plurality of spaced elongate plenums for supplying quench gas to an array of quench nozzles, the nozzles being mutually inclined to provide diverging jets of quench gas. The plenums extend transversely to the direction of conveyance of the sheet, and the array of nozzles is curved in at least one direction. The array may comprise rows of nozzles extending along lines which are curved in the direction of elongation of the plenums; preferably the curvature of the rows matches the average local curvature of the bent glass sheet in the corresponding direction. Also disclosed is a production line incorporating the apparatus.
US08028540B2	Four terminal hermetic bushing for use with single-phase electrical service line and three-winding motor A three-winding induction motor supplies shaft power to an air-conditioning or refrigeration compressor, where both motor and compressor are hermetically sealed, and the wall of the hermetic enclosure has an electrical bushing in the wall of the enclosure, which bushing has four electrical conductors to connect the motor stator windings internal in the enclosure to the external electrical circuits. Four conductors permit the six motor winding terminals for a three-winding induction motor to be connected in the unique semi-hexagon circuit to motor-run-capacitors and to a single-phase supply. A three-symmetrical-winding induction motor with the three windings in series and a single-phase supply connected across two of the windings in series. A circuit for use with a three-winding induction motor. A capacitor bank. An air-conditioning or refrigeration unit. A four-terminal hermetic bushing.
US08028539B2	Air conditioner Disclosed is an air conditioner which includes a plurality of compressors, a common inlet pipe through which fluid flows to the compressors, a plurality of inlet pipes branching off from the common inlet pipe which are connected to the compressors, a plurality of outlet pipes connected to the compressors through which refrigerant discharged from the compressors passes, and a plurality of bypass pipes connected to the compressors through which fluid discharged from the compressors passes. The fluid which passes through the plurality of bypass pipes is distributed to the plurality of compressors through the common inlet pipe.
US08028536B2	Combination dehydrator, dry return air and condensed water generator/dispenser A portable, combination dehydrator, dry return air and condensed water generator/dispenser configured to alternately provide water from a reservoir of condensed water or from an alternative source of water. In one embodiment, the alternative source comprises a five-gallon bottle of water and the mounting for the bottle includes a removable cover for preventing contamination of the system when the bottle is not in place. In one embodiment, the system provides purified dry make-up air to a home or office air conditioning system and dehydration cabinet, while producing pure atmospheric condensation from humidity found in the air and purifying the air and water for breathing, dispensing and drinking purposes.
US08028533B2	Defrost indicator A defrost indicator is configured such that the process of freezing and defrosting the defrost indicator places the defrost indicator into a state that is not completely reversed by refreezing, so that one can detect whether the defrost indicator defrosted and refroze or never defrosted by observing its current state. In an embodiment, the defrost indicator is initially placed in a first state before being frozen (e.g., upside down with fluid in an upper chamber). Freezing the defrost indicator places it in a second state (e.g., with the fluid frozen in the upper chamber). Then when the defrost indicator is defrosted, the defrost indicator is placed into a third state that is different than the first state (e.g., right-side-up with liquid fluid in the lower chamber). If the defrost indicator is again frozen, the defrost indicator is placed into a fourth state (e.g., the fluid frozen in the lower chamber).
US08028529B2	Low emissions gas turbine combustor A gas turbine combustor including: a primary combustion chamber; a secondary combustion chamber downstream of the primary combustion chamber; a venturi having a venturi throat; a transition piece; a cap assembly attached to the primary combustion chamber, and an external turbulator member in operable communication with the cap assembly, wherein the primary combustion chamber includes a mixing hole arrangement for improving homogeneity of an air and fuel mixture in the combustor; the venturi throat is disposed within a predetermined distance upstream from the downstream end of the primary combustion chamber; the transition piece is composed of a duct body, with a plurality of dilution holes formed in the duct body; and the external turbulator member includes a step positioned at the second end of the centerbody, the step defining a radial distance about the second end of the centerbody.
US08028528B2	Annular gas turbine combustor A combustor assembly includes a convergent segment followed by a divergent segment to advantageously improve combustion. The combustor assembly includes a first segment beginning at a forward end that transitions to a second segment past a transition segment in a direction along a combustor axis toward an aft end. The reduction in cross-sectional area within the first segment provides desirable fuel and air mixing properties. The convergent first segment in combination with the divergent second segment decreases residence time of fuel-air mixture within the combustor chamber that decreases production of undesirable emissions from the combustor assembly.
US08028527B2	System and method for converting moist air into water and power The present invention is directed to power generation systems and methods for converting naturally occurring moist air into power and water, enabling generation of power without carbon combustion and without the release of green-house gasses which usually accompany thermodynamic power generation. According to one embodiment, a compressor module is used to greatly compress enriched water vapor drawn from the surrounding moist air. The compressed water vapor is then condensed into output water by a working fluid, while the heated working fluid is used in a Rankine-cycle power generation loop to turn a turbine and thereby create transmittable electrical power.
US08028526B2	Geared boiler feed pump drive A geared fluid drive arrangement in which a constant speed motor is used to start a “full-size” boiler feed pump, and is able to operate the pump at a limited speed and correspondingly limited power adequate to fill, pressurize and feed water to a boiler such as would be used for an electrical generating plant to start-up and to operate stably at part load, but not necessarily full load. After the boiler is operating stably, steam from the boiler or from an extraction point of the main turbine is admitted to a mechanical drive steam turbine in order to drive the same “full-size” pump to the normal operating range.
US08028524B2	Supercharger with oil slinger and baffles A supercharger for an internal combustion engine having an internal reservoir adapted to receive a supply of lubricating oil. An oil slinger is mounted on the impeller shaft for rotation therewith that extends into the reservoir for collecting and slinging lubricating oil onto the supercharger bearings, shafts and the drive and impeller gears. A baffle assembly is carried by the interior of the supercharger housing for controlling the volume and flow of lubricating oil onto said gears and bearings and directing oil flow therefrom back into said reservoir to prevent excessive lubrication buildup on the gears and the deleterious effects that result therefrom.
US08028520B1	Center section for hydraulic drive apparatus A hydraulic drive device including a center section for rotatably mounting a hydraulic pump and hydraulic motor on respective running surfaces. The center section further includes a pair of ports connecting the running surfaces, where the ports are not located in the same plane but are rather offset from one another with respect to the pump running surface, so that one of the ports is closer to the pump running surface than the other port.
US08028519B2	Method and device for regenerating an emission control system The invention relates to a method for regenerating an emission control system of an internal combustion engine, comprising a storage catalytic converter, a first exhaust gas probe being situated in an exhaust gas tract upstream of the storage catalytic converter and a second exhaust gas probe being situated in a second exhaust gas tract downstream of the storage catalytic converter. A first output signal of a first exhaust gas probe and a second output signal of a second exhaust gas probe are supplied to an engine management system and the storage catalytic converter is regenerated by being exposed to a reductant in a regeneration phase. If the quantity of reductant is controlled by the engine management system during the regeneration phase, whereby said system detects the quantity of reductant that is present downstream of the storage catalytic converter by means of the second output signal of the second exhaust gas probe situated downstream of said converter, the charging of reductant can be significantly reduced with respect to an optimised dosage. Excess consumption of fuel or reductant as a result of the regeneration of the storage catalytic converter is minimised. In addition, the method improves the emission values, thus significantly contributing to the maintenance of emission limits.
US08028517B2	Exhaust gas purification device for an engine According to the invention, an exhaust gas purification device for an engine is provided. The device comprises: a plurality of cylinders, the cylinders being divided into at least two cylinder groups; exhaust branch pipes connected to the cylinder groups at their upstream ends, respectively; a common exhaust pipe connected to the downstream ends of the exhaust branch pipes; and a NOx catalyst positioned in the common exhaust pipe. When a sulfate contamination regeneration process for regenerating the sulfate contamination of the NOx catalyst is performed by controlling the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas discharged from one of the cylinder groups to a rich air-fuel ratio and controlling the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas discharged from the other cylinder group to a lean air-fuel ratio and a purge gas including fuel vapor is purged into an intake pipe, one of the amount of purge gas and the ratio of the amount of purge gas relative to an amount of fresh air flowing through the intake pipe is controlled on the basis of the concentration of fuel vapor in the purge gas.
US08028514B2	Exhaust gas purification system for internal combustion engine and method for regenerating purification ability of exhaust gas purification device The problem is to regenerate the purification ability of an exhaust gas purification device more reliably or efficiently in an exhaust gas purification system that combines a plurality of branch passages branch off from an exhaust gas passage and exhaust gas purification devices. When the purification ability of an exhaust gas purification device is regenerated, in the branch passage where the exhaust gas purification device is provided whose purification ability is to be regenerated, the opening angle of an exhaust gas flow volume control valve is set to the minimum opening angle that can reliably transport a reducing agent that is added from a reducing agent addition section. While the opening angle is maintained, the reducing agent is added. After the addition of the reducing agent is complete, the opening angle of an exhaust gas flow volume control valve is closed completely.
US08028513B2	Variable bypass turbine fan An engine for powering a vehicle, such as a military aircraft or a commercial aircraft, is provided. The engine broadly comprises a main core with a plurality of spools with each spool having a plurality of compressor blades and a plurality of turbine blades attached thereto. One of the spools has a first set of fan blades attached thereto. The engine further has a variable bypass turbine fan formed by a second set of fan blades. The second set of fan blades is arranged outboard of the main core. The second set of fan blades may be decoupled from the first set of fan blades.
US08028511B2	Integrated gasification combined cycle power generation plant A gasifying agent supply path A from an axial flow compressor 21 which boosts pressure of a gasifying agent to a gasifying furnace 2 is branched, and a gasifying agent bypass path D having an escaping pressure adjusting valve 23 is provided. The flow quantity or pressure of the gasifying agent supplied to the gasifying furnace 2 from the gasifying agent supply path A can be adjusted according to the degree of opening of the adjusting valve 23 disposed in the gasifying agent bypass path D, whereby providing a control valve in the gasifying agent supply path A is no longer necessary. Thus, pressure loss at the gasifying agent supply path A can be suppressed, and the discharge pressure of the axial flow compressor 21 can be greatly reduced.
US08028509B2	Polyethylene naphthalate fiber and method for producing the same The polyethylene naphthalate fiber for industrial material having a low fatigue in a composite is a polyethylene naphthalate fiber for industrial material containing an ethylene-2,6-naphthalate unit in 80% or more, characterize by having a strength of 6 cN/dtex or more and a secondary yield point elongation degree of 8% or less. The production method thereof is a method for producing a fiber in which a fiber having been obtained by melt-spinning a polyethylene naphthalate is subjected to stretching, characterized in that prestretch satisfying such conditions as the fiber temperature of from 80° C. to 120° C. and from 0.05 to 0.3 N/dtex is performed, a first stretch satisfying such conditions as the fiber temperature of from 130° C. to 180° C. and stretch tensile force of not more than the prestretch tensile force is performed, the total stretch magnification including subsequent stretches is set to 5 or more, and finally heat-treatment under tension with a stretch ratio of from 0 to 2% is performed.
US08028507B2	Picking arrangement for picking fruit on an elongate stem Picking arrangement for picking at least one fruit (36) located on an elongate stem (33) of a plant (34), has a holder (3), that can be moved along the ground (9), and having an elongate picking gap (30), which is provided on the holder (3), bounded by lateral edges (31) and through which the stem (33) can be guided. The fruit (36) is separated off along the edges (31) in the process, wherein the picking gap (30) is oriented such that the step (33) can be fed to the picking gap (30) with its longitudinal axis oriented parallel, or essentially parallel, to the longitudinal axis of the picking gap (30).
US08028503B2	Method and system for ultrasonic sealing of food product packaging A method and system for ultrasonic sealing of food product packaging is provided. The ultrasonic sealing system preferably includes a food product packaging-positioning system that delivers food product packaging and food product into direct on-item-packaging forming box. The direct on-item-packaging forming box then receives the food product packaging and forms it directly around the supplied food product forming a partially packaged food product. The partially packaged food product is then ultrasonically edge sealed around the food product by an ultrasonic food product packaging fin-sealing unit forming a partially sealed food product packaging. The partially sealed food product packaging then enters a food product packaging end-sealing unit which ultrasonically seals and crimps the ends of the food product packaging resulting in a fully packaged and ultrasonically sealed food product.
US08028502B2	Flexible pouch and method of forming a flexible pouch A method of forming and filling the pouch includes the steps of forming each panel and joining two panels by sealing together the side edges and lower edge. The method also includes the steps of opening the pouch and filling the pouch with the product. The method further includes the steps of closing the filled pouch by forming a first closing seal extending along an upper edge of the pouch a predetermined length from the upper edge, such that there is no dead space inside the pouch between the product and the first closing seal, and forming a second seal between the first closing seal and the upper edge thereby trapping the product between the first closing seal and the second closing seal, and finishing the pouch.
US08028498B2	Method of processing a container and base cup structure for removal of vacuum pressure A Method of Processing a Container and Base Cup Structure For Removal of Vacuum Pressure A plastic container (10) has a wall extending to a lower portion including a pressure panel (20). The panel (20) is transversely oriented and can move from a downwardly inclined position providing a geometrically unstable configuration to an upwardly inclined position providing a geometrically stable configuration to control pressure change in the container. This movement may be provided by suitable actuating means such as rod (22). In the unstable configuration a base cup 50 or any other suitable holder can support the container and enable it to be conveyed in a container handling or processing system.

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