最新美国发明专利第2011-11-01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
US08048639B2	Method for evaluating risk in multiple sclerosis The invention relates to methods and reagents for diagnosing and assessing the prognosis of multiple sclerosis.
US08048638B2	Biomarkers of liver injury Novel, sensitive and specific markers for diagnostics and monitoring of liver injuries, including, but not limited to ischemic liver damage, are provided. This includes identification of several enzymes of arginine/urea/nitric oxide cycle, sulfuration enzymes and spectrin breakdown related products, among others.
US08048637B2	Diagnostic composition and method for the detection of a Trichinella infection A diagnostic composition to detect antibodies in a sample obtained from an animal or human being infected by Trichinella, comprising at least one peptide containing a series of amino acids that form a continuous or discontinuous epitope recognized by sera from pigs infected with Trichinella.
US08048633B2	Methods of performing nucleic acid amplification assays using modified primers The invention relates to a method for the extraction of nucleic acid from cells, the amplification of segments of nucleic acid using modified primers, and the detection of nucleic acids.
US08048632B2	Canola event PV-BNGT04(RT73) and compositions and methods for detection thereof The present invention provides assays for detecting the presence of the PV-BNGT04(RT73) canola event based on the DNA sequence of the recombinant construct inserted into the canola genome and of genomic sequences flanking the insertion site.
US08048625B2	Method of examining inflammatory disease and method of screening remedy for inflammatory disease A single nucleotide polymorphism occurring on a leptin receptor gene is analyzed and an inflammatory disease is examined on the basis of the analytical data. Further, a substance capable of changing the interaction between the leptin receptor and galectin-2 is selected to thereby screen a remedy for an inflammatory disease.
US08048623B1	Compositions, products, methods and systems to monitor water and other ecosystems Disclosed are compositions, products, methods and systems for monitoring ecosystems, such as bodies of water, for a parameter of the ecosystems, such as the presence or absence of mercury. In one embodiment, the product may include a plurality of oligonucleotides immobilized at known locations on a substrate as an array, such that each location on the array is an oligonucleotide having a sequence derived from a single, predetermined operational taxonomic unit (OTU) and wherein at least one sequence on the array is associated with the presence or absence of mercury. The sequences immobilized on the array may be from known, or unknown organisms. Also disclosed are methods for identifying and isolating bioindicators diagnostic of ecosystem parameters, such as whether mercury is present. The compositions, products, methods and systems of the invention may be used for rapid, and continual monitoring of ecosystems for parameters of interest, such as the presence or absence of mercury.
US08048621B2	Biological markers predictive of anti-cancer response to insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor kinase inhibitors The present invention provides diagnostic and prognostic methods for predicting the effectiveness of treatment of a cancer patient with an IGF-1R kinase inhibitor. Methods are provided for predicting the sensitivity of tumor cell growth to inhibition by an IGF-1R kinase inhibitor, comprising assessing whether the tumor cell has undergone an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), by determining the expression level of epithelial and/or mesenchymal biomarkers, wherein tumor cells that have undergone an EMT are substantially less sensitive to inhibition by IGF-1R kinase inhibitors. Improved methods for treating cancer patients with IGF-1R kinase inhibitors that incorporate the above methodology are also provided. Additionally, methods are provided for the identification of new biomarkers that are predictive of responsiveness of tumors to IGF-1R kinase inhibitors. Furthermore, methods for the identification of agents that restore the sensitivity of tumor cells that have undergone EMT to inhibition by IGF-1R kinase inhibitors are also provided. pErk, HER3 and pHER are also demonstrated to be effective biomarkers for predicting sensitivity of tumor cells to IGF-1R kinase inhibitors.
US08048613B2	Alkali development-type solder resist, cured product thereof, and printed wiring board prepared by using the same An alkali development-type solder resist includes (A) a carboxyl group-containing photosensitive resin obtained by reacting (a) a compound having two or more cyclic ether or thioether groups in the molecule with (b) an unsaturated monocarboxylic acid, reacting the product with (c) a polybasic acid anhydride, reacting the resulting resin with (d) a compound having a cyclic ether group and an ethylenic unsaturated group in the molecule, and reacting the product additionally with (c) a polybasic acid anhydride, (B) an oxime ester-based photopolymerization initiator containing a specific oxime ester group, (C) a compound having two or more ethylenic unsaturated groups in the molecule, and (D) a thermosetting component, wherein the dry film obtained by applying the composition has an absorbance of 0.3 to 1.2 per 25 μm of the film thickness at a wavelength of 350 to 375 nm.
US08048606B2	Imaging methods An imaging method is disclosed. An imaging composition is coated on a work piece followed by applying a sufficient amount of energy from a 3-D imaging system to form an image on the coated work piece. The image may be a logo or marker for alignment of parts.
US08048604B2	Hydrofluoroalkanesulfonic acids and salts from fluorovinyl ethers Hydrofluoroalkanesulfonates of the general formula R—O—CXH—CX2—SO3M, where R is selected from the group consisting of alkyl groups, functionalized alkyl groups, and alkenyl groups; X is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and fluorine with the proviso that at least one X is fluorine; and M is a cation, are made by reacting fluorovinyl ether with aqueous sulfite solution. Organic onium hydrofluoroalkanesulfonates are useful as ionic liquids and photoacid generators.
US08048603B2	Toner, two-component developer, developing device, and image forming apparatus A toner is composed of toner particles which contain at least a binder resin, a colorant, and a release agent. As to particle size distribution and particle number distribution of the toner particles, a volume average particle size of the toner particles is set to be 3.0 μm to 6.0 μm, and a content of 5.0 μm or smaller toner particles is set to be 40% by number while a content of 8.0 μm or larger toner particles is set to be less than 2% by volume. Furthermore, an amount of the release agent in toner particle surface is set to be 0.7% by weight or more and 1.8% by weight or less. And furthermore, the release agent is a petroleum-based release agent.
US08048601B2	Aminosilane and self crosslinking acrylic resin hole blocking layer photoconductors A photoconductor that includes, for example, a substrate; a first layer like a ground plane layer; an undercoat layer thereover wherein the undercoat layer contains an aminosilane and a crosslinked acrylic resin; a photogenerating layer; and at least one charge transport layer.
US08048600B2	Parameter extracting method A parameter extracting method capable of accurately and effectively extracting parameters used for charged particle beam exposure. The method comprises the steps of forming an unknown parameter layer on a known parameter layer, forming a resist on the unknown parameter layer, subjecting the resist to exposure through patterns changed in an existing range, and extracting parameters of the unknown parameter layer using the exposure result. In the parameter extraction method, parameters of layers lower than the unknown parameter layer are known. Therefore, layer combinations to be considered and the number of experimental data can be drastically reduced. After parameter extraction of the unknown parameter layer, an unknown parameter layer is newly formed on the layer. Then, the parameter thereof is extracted in the same manner. Thus, the parameter is extracted sequentially from lower layers and therefore, the parameter in the multitiered structure having various layer combinations can be accurately and effectively extracted.
US08048597B2	Semiconductor device with a bulb-type recess gate An exposure mask includes a plurality of active region patterns, and a plurality of recess patterns with a first line width, passing across the active region patterns, wherein the line width of at least one of the plurality of recess patterns neighboring one of the plurality of active region patterns is narrowed down into a second line width.
US08048589B2	Phase shift photomask performance assurance method A method for inspecting a phase shift photomask employs a phase shift photomask having an active pattern region. An optical property of the phase shift photomask is measured within the active pattern region, rather than, for example, a non-active pattern border region. By making the measurement within the active pattern region, performance of the phase shift mask may be properly assured. The method is particularly useful for inspecting attenuated phase shift photomasks to assure absence of side-lobes when photoexposing blanket photoresist layers.
US08048587B2	Compliant current collector for fuel cell anode and cathode An electrically-conductive mesh spacer incorporated into the hydrogen and air gas flow spaces between each anode and cathode and its adjacent interconnect in a fuel cell stack. The mesh is formed of metal strands and is formed into a predetermined three-dimensional pattern to make contact at a plurality of points on the surfaces of the electrode and the interconnect element. The formed mesh spacer is secured as by brazing to the interconnect element at a plurality of locations to form an interconnect, which preserves the pattern during assembly of a fuel cell stack. The height of the formed pattern is greater than the height of a gas flow space after fuel cell assembly, such that the mesh spacer is slightly compressed during assembly of a fuel cell stack. Because the metal mesh is both compliant and resilient, the compressed spacer is continuously urged into mechanical and electrical contact with its electrode over all temperatures and pressures to which the fuel cell assembly may be subjected during use.
US08048586B2	Fuel cell stack structure A fuel cell stack induces smooth current collection and liquid or gas flow without using a heavy bipolar plate. The fuel cell stack includes: a membrane and electrode assembly (MEA) in which an electrolyte membrane is disposed between a cathode electrode and an anode electrode; a current collector disposed in the MEA to form an electrical path with an adjacent MEA; and a non-conductive separation plate disposed between the MEA and the adjacent MEA, the non-conductive separation plate forming flow channels to supply a liquid or gas to the cathode electrode and the anode electrode. A fuel cell stack structure having the above structure is simple and lightweight as the MEA includes a thin and lightweight non-conductive polymer separation plate and a current collector to connect adjacent MEAs.
US08048584B2	Fuel cell structures and assemblies The present invention relates to microfibrous fuel cell sub-bundle structures, fuel cell bundles and fuel cell assemblies formed by such fuel cell sub-bundles and bundles. Specifically, a fuel cell sub-bundle is provided, which comprises multiple microfibrous fuel cells. Each microfibrous fuel cell comprises: (a) a hollow microfibrous membrane separator comprising an electrolyte medium, (b) an inner electrocatalyst layer in contact with an inner surface of such membrane separator, (c) an outer electrocatalyst layer in contact with an outer surface of such membrane separator, and (d) an individual current collector in electrical contact with the inner surface of such membrane separator. Each of such multiple microfibrous fuel cells is in electrical contact with a common current collector at the outer surface of its membrane separator.
US08048583B2	Compact air preheater for solid oxide fuel cell systems The present invention provides, among other things, a method of operating a solid oxide fuel cell system including a fuel cell stack. The method can include the acts of combining an exhaust flow from an anode side of the fuel cell stack and an exhaust flow from a cathode side of the fuel cell stack, transferring heat from the combined exhaust flow to a first air flow, and combining a second air flow and the heated first air flow upstream from the fuel cell stack to control a temperature of the combined air flow entering the cathode side of the solid oxide fuel cell.
US08048581B2	PEM fuel cell system with a porous hydrophobic gas venting member with gas flow blockage prevention A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell power plant is cooled evaporatively with a water coolant system which does not permit liquid water to exit or flow through the coolant system. The coolant system utilizes a hydrophobic porous member (28) for venting gases such as fuel and/or air from a coolant water flow field in the system. Coolant water (36) is prevented from continuosly contacting the porous member during operation of the power plant thus preventing blockage of the porous member by coolant water or contaminants disposed in the coolant water.
US08048578B2	Fuel cell system and vehicle mounted with fuel cell system When a vehicle mounted with a fuel cell system travels using electric power supplied from the system, a predetermined portion forming the system, such as a fuel cell, is prevented from being frozen by the relative wind. The fuel cell system is mounted on a vehicle and has the fuel cell for generating electric power by using fuel gas and oxidized gas as fuel and also has a control section for controlling the system. When the speed of the vehicle is higher than or equal to a predetermined threshold and predetermined conditions determined by physical quantities relating to power generation conditions of the fuel cell are satisfied, the control section determines that freeze prevention processing is necessary even if the fuel cell is generating electric power and performs the processing.
US08048574B2	Fuel cell system and shutoff method A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell, an operation controller, a checking unit, a scavenging unit, an instructing unit, a temperature sensor, a humidifier and a humidification controller. The operation controller selects one of a normal operation mode and a low-temperature operation mode. The checking unit determines whether the fuel cell has been started up in the low-temperature operation mode. The instructing unit provides an instruction for a shutoff of electricity generation. When the scavenging unit conducts scavenging based on the checking unit determining that the fuel cell has been started in the low-temperature operation mode in response to an instruction for a shutoff of electricity generation and an actual temperature of the fuel cell is higher than a predetermined temperature, the humidification controller controls an amount of humidification according to the actual temperature.
US08048573B2	Organic electrolytic solution and lithium battery using the same Organic electrolytic solutions and lithium batteries using the organic electrolytic solutions are provided. One organic electrolytic solution includes a lithium salt, a mixed organic solvent consisting of a high-dielectric constant solvent and a low-boiling point solvent, and a compound represented by Formula 1 or 2 as an additive. The organic electrolytic solution and the lithium battery using the organic electrolytic solution may inhibit the reductive cleavage reaction of a polar solvent, thereby increasing capacity retention of the battery, and improving charge-discharge efficiency and battery lifetime.
US08048572B2	Long life lead acid battery having titanium core grids and method of their production A lead acid electric storage battery uses conventional lead-acid secondary battery chemistry. The battery may be a sealed battery, an unsealed battery or a conventional multi-cellbattery. It has 12 to 25 cells in a single case. The case is less than 12 inches long and may be less than 6 inches long. The battery has a set of positive battery grids (plates) which are constructed with a core of thin titanium expanded metal having a thickness preferably, for start batteries etc. in the range 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm and most preferably 0.2 mm to 0.4 mm. The grid cores are of a titanium alloy containing a platinum group metal. The cores are coated with hot melt dip lead and are not lead electroplated. The grid cores expand and contract, with temperature changes, much less than conventional lead grids.
US08048560B2	Alkaline battery An alkaline battery comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode; and an alkaline electrolyte, wherein the positive electrode includes manganese dioxide and graphite; the cumulative pore volume of pores with diameters of 3 to 5 nm in the manganese dioxide is X (cm3/g), and the weight loss rate of the manganese dioxide when heated from 150 to 400° C. is Y (%), X and Y satisfying 0.005≦X≦0.011, 3.4≦Y≦3.9, and −16.7X+3.58≦Y≦66.7X+3.17; the negative electrode includes zinc; and the alkaline electrolyte includes an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution.
US08048558B2	Cylindrical nickel-zinc cell with negative can A nickel-zinc battery cell is formed with a negative can, a positive cap, and a jelly roll of electrochemically active positive and negative materials within. The inner surface of the can is protected with an anticorrosive material that may be coated or plated onto the can. Good electrical contact between the jelly roll and the cap is achieved through folding the nickel substrate over to contact a positive current collection disk.
US08048552B1	Battery module mount A battery module mount for securing a battery module to a housing of a handheld device, including one or more latch elements attached to the housing and movable between a free position and an unlatched position, with a tab portion, and one or more elongate resilient elements biasing each latch element to the free position. Each latch element is positionable in a latched positions. The mount also includes one or more mating means attached to the battery module with an abutment with which the tab portion is engageable when the latch element is in the latched position, to hold the abutment in a retainable position, thereby securing the battery module to the housing. The tab portion is disengaged from the abutment when the latch element is in the unlatched position, to permit removal of the battery module from the housing.
US08048548B2	Electrocatalyst for alcohol oxidation at fuel cell anodes In some embodiments a ternary electrocatalyst is provided. The electrocatalyst can be used in an anode for oxidizing alcohol in a fuel cell. In some embodiments, the ternary electrocatalyst may include a noble metal particle having a surface decorated with clusters of SnO2 and Rh. The noble metal particles may include platinum, palladium, ruthenium, iridium, gold, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the ternary electrocatalyst includes SnO2 particles having a surface decorated with clusters of a noble metal and Rh. Some ternary electrocatalysts include noble metal particles with clusters of SnO2 and Rh at their surfaces. In some embodiments the electrocatalyst particle cores are nanoparticles. Some embodiments of the invention provide a fuel cell including an anode incorporating the ternary electrocatalyst. In some aspects a method of using ternary electrocatalysts of Pt, Rh, and SnO2 to oxidize an alcohol in a fuel cell is described.
US08048546B2	Perpendicular magnetic recording disk with ordered nucleation layer and method for making the disk A continuous-media perpendicular magnetic recording disk with an oxide-containing granular Co alloy recording layer (RL) having minimal grain size dispersion has an ordered nucleation layer (ONL) formed below RL. The ONL has ordered nucleation sites arranged in a generally repetitive pattern. The nucleation sites are generally surrounded by non-nucleation regions of a different material than the nucleation sites. The Co-alloy grains of the subsequently deposited RL grow on the nucleation sites and the oxide of the RL become generally segregated on the non-nucleation regions. The ordered nucleation sites may be formed of a Ru-containing material and the non-nucleation regions may be formed of an oxide. The ONL is formed by nanoimprint lithography, preferably by a master mold fabricated with a method using self-assembling block copolymers for creating periodic nanometer scale features.
US08048545B2	Perpendicular magnetic recording media with magnetic anisotropy gradient and local exchange coupling A perpendicular magnetic recording medium adapted for high recording density and high data recording rate comprises a non-magnetic substrate having at least one surface with a layer stack formed thereon, the layer stack including a perpendicular recording layer containing a plurality of columnar-shaped magnetic grains extending perpendicularly to the substrate surface for a length, with a first end distal the surface and a second end proximal the surface, wherein each of the magnetic grains has: (1) a gradient of perpendicular magnetic anisotropy field Hk extending along its length between the first end and second ends; and (2) predetermined local exchange coupling strengths along the length.
US08048544B2	Ceramics made of preceramic paper or board structures, method of producing the same and use thereof Ceramics are made of preceramic paper or board structures in a particular shape previously represented in a paper structure, in which the preceramic papers or boards have a content of ceramic fillers between 30 and 95 wt-%, with the ceramic fillers having a particle size <30 μm. A method for manufacturing such ceramics and the use thereof are also provided.
US08048541B2	Organic electroluminescence device An electroluminescence device has an anode, a cathode and an emitting layer located between the anode and the cathode. The emitting layer contains a compound selected from a group consisting of neutral red and its derivatives.
US08048536B2	Single-layer organic EL device Disclosed is an organic EL dye enabling to provide an organic EL device which is capable of emitting a light at a low voltage even when it has a single layer structure. Also disclosed is an organic EL device using such an organic EL dye. The organic EL dye is represented by the general formula (1): (Y—L)nXm wherein x is an n-valent charge-transporting group, Y is a light-emitting group, L is a linking group bonding the charge-transporting group and the light-emitting group, and m and n are respectively an integer not less than 1.
US08048534B2	Composite used for thermal spray instrumentation and method for making the same A superalloy article which comprises a substrate comprised of a superalloy, a bond coat comprised of MCrAlY wherein M is a metal selected from the group consisting of cobalt, nickel and mixtures thereof applied onto at least a portion of the substrate and a ceramic top coat applied over at least a portion of the bond coat. The bond coat is exposed to a temperature of within the range of between about 1600-1800° F. subsequent to its application onto the substrate.
US08048528B2	Cellular coal products According to the present invention there is provided coal-based cellular or porous products, also referred to herein as “carbon foams”, having a density of preferably between about 0.1 g/cm3 and about 0.8 g/cm3 and most preferably between about 0.3 and about 0.4 g/cm3 that are produced by the controlled heating of coal particulate preferably up to ¼ inch in diameter in a “mold” and under a non-oxidizing atmosphere. The coal-based cellular or porous products of the present invention have ash contents typically greater than about 1%. More typically these coal-based cellular or porous products have ash contents greater than about 3%, with ash contents in the range of about 7% to 15% being most typical. The ash residue remaining after essentially complete combustion/oxidation of these coal-based cellular or porous products is predominately composed of oxides of aluminum and silicon. Additionally, the cellular coal-based products of the present invention have relatively low overall B.E.T. surface areas. Such surface areas are typically less than about 5 m2/g and are commonly in the range of about 1 m2/g to about 2 m2/g.
US08048527B2	Shaped expanded graphite article and method for producing the same A formed exfoliated graphite article which comprises an oxidation-resistant coating layer formed at least in the surface layer portion thereof, preferably wherein the oxidation-resistant coating layer contains a boron element and a phosphorus element, the content of a boron element in the oxidation-resistant coating layer is 1 mass % or more, the content of a phosphorus in the oxidation-resistant coating layer is 0.1 mass % or more, and the oxidation-resistant coating layer is formed in a thickness of 0.5 μm or more.
US08048526B2	Capped particles comprising multi-block copolymers for use in lubricants The present invention relates to additives for use in lubricant compositions to processes for producing the additives, and to the use of the additives in lubricants and in systems that are lubricated. More specifically, the additive includes a capped particle comprising: (i) one or more core particles wherein the core particle is an inorganic particle having a dimension less than about 5 μm; and (ii) one or more multi-block copolymers attached to the inorganic particles, wherein the multi-block copolymer comprises a) at least one nonpolar polymer block; b) at least one first polar polymer block; and c) at least one second polar polymer block; wherein the nonpolar polymer block is interposed between the first polar polymer block and the second polar polymer block, the first polar polymer block is attached to the core particle, and at least a portion of the second polar polymer block is not attached to the core particle. When used in a lubricant to lubricate a metallic surface of a workpiece, the capped particle preferably adhere to the metallic surface of the workpiece.
US08048525B2	Hybrid nanoscale particles An adsorption method includes the step of adsorbing hybrid particles from a colloidal dispersion of such particles at an interface between the dispersion and a second phase, said hybrid particles comprising: (a) a nanoscale inorganic core having an outer surface, and (b) an organic layer disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the inorganic core and comprising one or more phosphonates according to structure (I): wherein: R1 and R2 are each independently H, or a (C1-C20)hydrocarbon group, R3 is a divalent (C1-C20)hydrocarbon group, R4 and R5 are each independently H or (C1-C2)alkyl, provided that R4 differs from R5, R6 is H or a (C1-C30)hydrocarbon group, m and n are each independently integers of from 0 to about 200, provided that the sum of m+n is at least 1.
US08048524B2	Polymer latex having excellent impact-resistance and powder flow property and method for preparing the same The present invention relates to a multilayer polymer latex comprising a seed, a rubbery core surrounding the seed, and a shell surrounding the rubbery core, in which the seed comprises a vinyl unit, a hydrophilic unit and a crosslinker unit, as well as a preparation method thereof. The present invention can provide an acrylic polymer latex and a diene polymer latex, depending on materials constituting the core and the shell. In the present invention, the seed containing a vinyl unit, a hydrophilic unit and a crosslinker unit, and the rubbery core, are used for the preparation of the polymer latex. This can increase the rubber content of the polymer latex, thus improving the impact resistance of the polymer latex, and at the same time, reduce the viscosity of the polymer latex so as to improve the long-term workability of the polymer latex upon spray drying. Thus, polymer powder prepared from the polymer latex is excellent in not only impact resistance but also flow properties.
US08048523B2	Cerium oxide nanoparticles Nanoscale UV absorbing particles are described that have high UV absorption cross sections while being effectively transparent to visible light. These particles can be used to shield individuals from harmful ultraviolet radiation. These particles can also be used in industrial processing especially to produce solid state electronic devices by creating edges of photoresist material with a high aspect ratio. The UV absorbing particles can also be used as photocatalysts that become strong oxidizing agents upon exposure to UV light. Laser pyrolysis provides an efficient method for the production of suitable particles.
US08048521B2	Multilayer heat sealant structures, packages and methods of making the same The embodiments of the present invention relate to multilayer thermoplastic structures having improved sealability and tearability. More specifically, the present invention relates to a multilayer heat sealant structure having at least three layers that may be coextrusion coated or otherwise laminated to a substrate, such as metallized polymeric material, foil, or other substrates.
US08048520B2	Multilayer terionomer encapsulant layers and solar cell laminates comprising the same The present invention provides a solar cell pre-lamination assembly comprising a terionomer multilayer film or sheet and solar cell modules prepared therefrom.
US08048518B2	Fluoropolymer coated films useful for photovoltaic modules A fluoropolymer coated film comprising polymeric substrate film and fluoropolymer coating on the polymeric substrate film. The fluoropolymer coating comprises fluoropolymer selected from homopolymers and copolymers of vinyl fluoride and homopolymers and copolymers of vinylidene fluoride polymer blended with compatible adhesive polymer comprising functional groups selected from carboxylic acid, sulfonic acid, aziridine, anhydride, amine, isocyanate, melamine, epoxy, hydroxy, anhydride and mixtures thereof. The polymeric substrate film comprises functional groups on its surface that interact with the compatible adhesive polymer to promote bonding of the fluoropolymer coating to the substrate film.
US08048517B2	Composition for application to a surface Compositions, methods, apparatuses, kits, and combinations are described for permanently or temporarily re-designing, decorating, and/or re-coloring a surface. The compositions useful in the present disclosure include a décor product that is formulated to be applied and affixed to a surface. If desired, the décor product may be substantially removed from the surface before being affixed thereto. If a user desires to remove the décor product, the décor product is formulated to be removed by a number of methods including, for example, vacuuming, wet extraction, chemical application, and the like. If the user desires to affix the décor product to the surface in a permanent or semi-permanent manner, the décor product may be affixed to the surface by applying energy thereto in the form of, for example, heat, pressure, emitted waves, an emitted electrical field, a magnetic field, and/or a chemical. The décor product may also be utilized in the form of a kit or in conjunction with a design device, such as a stencil, to control the application of the décor product to create, for example, a pattern on the surface.
US08048515B2	Graphite material and a method of producing graphite material A graphite material includes a plurality of graphite particles and a plurality of pores which form a microstructure. When a cross-section of the microstructure is observed with a scanning electron microscope, the number of the pores appearing on the cross-section is more than 250 or more per 6000 μm2, an average area of the pores appearing on the cross-section is 5 μm2 or less, and an average aspect ratio of the pores appearing on the cross-section is 0.55 or less.
US08048511B2	Titanium oxide coating agent and titanium oxide film forming method This invention provides a coating agent, which can form a coating film over a wide area in a simple manner, is chemically and physically stable, and can form an ultrathin film, a coating film, a method for formation of coating film, and various products coated with the coating film. The coating agent contains thin sheet titanium oxide fine particles. The coating agent may comprise a solution containing a titania nanosheet and a sol of silicon oxide or titanium oxide. The coating film is formed by coating and then drying and heating the coating and has a microstructure in which thin sheet titanium oxide fine particles are stacked with a high level of orientation.
US08048508B2	Plugged honeycomb structure A honeycomb structure comprising porous partition walls which form, by surrounding, a plurality of cells extending between the two ends faces of the honeycomb structure, and an outer wall formed integrally with the partition walls. The cells consist of partial cells of outermost peripheral portion, having incomplete cell sections, which are located at the outermost peripheral portion of the honeycomb structure and are in partial contact with the outer wall, and complete cells having a complete cell section, other than the partial cells of outermost peripheral portion. In the complete cells, a plugged part is formed at one end of each complete cell so that each end face of the honeycomb structure shows a checkerwise plugging pattern. In the partial cells of outermost peripheral portion to be plugged according to the above-mentioned plugging pattern, part of them is plugged in the entire length and formed integrally with the outer wall and remaining cells have each a plugged part only at one end.
US08048504B2	Composite having two or more layers, including an EVOH layer A layered composite which includes the following layers (I) and (II), wherein layer (I) includes (a) from 0 to 80 part by weight of at least one particular polyamide; (b) from 0 to 100 parts by weight of at least one polyamine-polyamide copolymer; and (c) from 0 to 80 parts by weight of at least one particular polyamide which is different from (a), wherein various monomer units are present in at least 20 parts by weight of the entirety of (a) and (b) and various other monomer units are present in at least 20 parts by weight of the entirety of (b) and (c); and layer (II) includes at least one ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer.
US08048502B2	Readily degradable resin composition and biodegradable container using the same Disclosed is a readily degradable resin composition having excellent biodegradability. Specifically disclosed is a readily degradable resin composition comprising: an aliphatic polyester (A) which has biodegradability; and an aliphatic polyester (B) which has a solution viscosity (η inh) of 0.25 dl/g or less as measured in a mixed solvent composed of m-chlorophenol and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene at a weight-based ratio of 4:1 at a concentration of 0.4 g/dl and at a temperature of 30° C. and a melt viscosity of 50 Pa S or less as measured at 190° C. at a shear rate of 1 rad/s and is capable of biodegraded at a more rapid degradation rate than the aliphatic polyester (A). Also disclosed is a readily degradable resin composition comprising: an aliphatic polyester (A) which has biodegradability; and an aliphatic polyester (B′) which, when hydrolyzed, can release an acid showing a pH value of 2.0 or less when dissolved in water at a concentration of 0.005 g/ml and is capable of biodegraded at a more rapid degradation rate than the aliphatic polyester (A). Further disclosed is a biodegradable container comprising the readily degradable resin composition.
US08048498B2	Compositions and processes for preparing color filter elements using vanadium catalysts Provided are compositions derived from a polycarboxylic acid, a polyhydroxy compound, a dye and a vanadium catalyst. The compositions can be used to prepare films that can be used to prepare color filter elements via thermal transfer processes.
US08048493B2	Method of forming piezoelectric resin film An objective is to provide a method of forming a piezoelectric resin film produced at low cost, and specifically to provide the method in which a large-area piezoelectric resin film is produced at low cost, and at reduced investment in facilities. Disclosed is a method of forming a piezoelectric resin film possessing the steps of polymerizing a monomer at a temperature of 5-60° C. to obtain a resin having a polymerization degree of 4-300, and a polarity group possessing one bond selected from a urea bond, an ester bond, an amide bond and an imide bond, coating the resin onto a substrate; and further polymerizing the resin at 70-250° C. while conducting a poling treatment.
US08048492B2	Magnetoresistive effect element and manufacturing method thereof A magnetoresistive effect element is produced by forming a first magnetic layer, a spacer layer including an insulating layer and a conductive layer which penetrates through the insulating layer and passes a current, on the first magnetic layer, and a second magnetic layer all of which or part of which is treated with ion, plasma or heat, on the formed spacer layer.
US08048491B2	Multilayer coating film-forming method This invention provides a multilayer coating film-forming method by 2-coat-1-bake coating using a clear coat paint comprising a carboxyl group- and/or cyclic acid anhydride group-containing compound and polyepoxide, in which the coating workability and electrostatic coatability are improved by blending a specific organic solvent in the clear coat paint.
US08048489B2	Compositions comprising biscitraconimide, bisitaconimide, and/or citraconimido-itaconimide The invention pertains to a prepolymer composition comprising a mixture of monomers, oligomers, and polymers obtainable by polymerization of unsaturated monomers consisting of at least one of biscitraconimide, bisitaconimide, and citraconimido-itaconimide, and optionally (co)curable compound selected from bismaleimides, citraconamidomaieimides, and itaconamido maleimides, wherein 5-55 wt. % is monomer, 20-80 wt. % is oligomer having a molecular weight 300 to 3,000, and 10-50 wt. % is polymer having a molecular weight 3,000 to about 80,000, whereas the total content of monomers, oligomers, and polymers in the composition is at least 90 wt. %. The prepolymer can be used for making laminates and prepregs by curing the composition to a polymer.
US08048484B2	Method for the deposition of a film by CVD or ALD Methods and apparatus for deposition of a film on a substrate in a reaction chamber by an atomic layer deposition (ALD) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process include providing one or more reactants, and providing a volatile neutral coordinating ligand capable of coordinating at least one selected from the following: (i) one of the reactants; (ii) a reaction by-product formed during the deposition process. The neutral coordinating ligand thus improves volatility of either reactants and/or by-products, either in the gas phase or aiding in removal of species from reaction space surfaces. The neutral coordinating ligand is provided during the deposition process, either during or after reactant supply.
US08048481B2	Method of manufacturing a coating or doctoring blade There is disclosed a method for the manufacture of coating or doctoring blades, wherein an elastomeric wear-resistant material at the blade tip is provided in a continuous process. During the manufacturing, the thickness of the applied elastomeric material is determined by winding the blade (containing the applied polymer composition) into a coil before the applied composition is fully cured. Successive turns of the coil are separated by a distance which is smaller than the initial thickness of the applied composition, such that the only partly cured composition is deformed by adjacent turns of the coil into the desired thickness and/or shape.
US08048478B2	Method of manufacturing electrode for electrochemical device A method of manufacturing an electrode for an electrochemical device is provided with the steps of: supplying, onto a collector, a powdered mixture containing a binder and an active material; and heating the powdered mixture to form an electrode layer on the collector, that allows continuous mass production of electrodes for electrochemical devices.
US08048476B2	Method of manufacturing plasma display panel Evaporation chamber for depositing a protective film on a surface, where a dielectric layer is formed, of front substrate, front substrate is formed a display electrode and the dielectric layer thereon; transporting unit for transporting front substrate into evaporation chamber; gas introducing units for introducing gas containing H2O into evaporation chamber; and partial pressure detecting unit for measuring a certain partial pressure of gas within evaporation chamber, extending from the center of deposition space of evaporation chamber to the downstream of transport direction of front substrate are provided. Gas containing H2O is introduced from gas introducing units such that the partial pressure of gas is controlled in the partial pressure detecting unit.
US08048475B2	Method of fabricating superconducting wire and superconducting apparatus An object of the present invention is to provide a method of fabricating a superconducting wire that can reduce the fabrication cost and increase the mechanical strength of the superconducting wire, and a superconducting apparatus including a superconducting wire obtained by the method. The present invention provides a method of fabricating a superconducting wire including the steps of forming a superconducting layer on a substrate or an intermediate layer formed on the substrate, forming a silver stabilization layer on the superconducting layer, immersing the substrate in a copper sulfate solution after the superconducting layer and the silver stabilization layer are formed thereon, and forming a copper stabilization layer on the silver stabilization layer by electroplating with the copper sulfate solution as a plating bath. A superconducting apparatus including a superconducting wire obtained by the method is also provided.
US08048469B2	Cocoa beans with reduced polyphenol oxidase activity and high polyphenol content The present invention relates to a process for reducing the polyphenol oxidase activity in cocoa beans comprising the step of steaming non-fermented, non-roasted raw cocoa beans with water vapor.
US08048468B2	Glyceride oil composition from fish oil and preparation method thereof Provided are a glyceride oil composition derived from a fish oil and a preparation method thereof. The composition includes docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) with a content of 45 to 95% by weight and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with a content of 0.001 to 13% by weight among constituent fatty acids, and a saturated fatty acid having 16 to 18 carbon atoms, which is bonded at 1- and 3-positions, with a content of 0.001 to 5% by weight among constituent fatty acids, in which a weight ratio of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is 0.5 to 8 and a weight ratio of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is 3.5 to 15. The glyceride oil composition derived from fish oil has nutritional and physiological superiority due to containing a great amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as DHA and DPA in a form of glyceride, and can minimize disadvantages of EPA such as inhibition of ω-6 fatty acid metabolism by containing a low amount of EPA. The glyceride oil composition is excellent in digestion and absorption of polyunsaturated fatty acids into a human body by containing a low amount of saturated fatty acids at 1- and 3-positions and process characteristics such as an oxidation stability and water-dispersibility.
US08048467B2	Dairy product of firm consistency having a homogeneous structure and comprising a plurality of adjacent cells A dairy product of firm consistency having a homogeneous structure and comprising a plurality of adjacent cells, each cell having a core comprising a milk protein, an inner shell around the core and comprising milk fat and on outer shell around the inner shell and comprising gelatin enriched with at least one component of a milk product.
US08048460B2	Beverage maker flow detection logic The water heating flow detection system for a beverage maker includes a heater control logic circuit that controls heating in response to temperature and flow conditions in the beverage maker. A heater control logic circuit receives a temperature detection signal and a flow detection signal, and generates a water heater control signal for controlling operation of one or more water heaters. A flow detection device may be connected to the hot water outlet conduit or the cold water inlet conduit, and may include a magnetic flow detection device. A faucet lever position detection device may also be used to indicate flow through a faucet outlet valve.
US08048456B2	Skin care formulations Disclosed are compositions and methods for treating skin comprising a chemically compatible combination of skin active ingredients comprising palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, methylsilanol mannuronate, and Lactobacillus ferment, a chemically compatible combination of skin active ingredients comprising plant extracts from Punica granatum, Castanea sativa, Gossypium hirsutum, and Euterpe oleracea, and a dermatologically acceptable vehicle. The compositions can be substantive in that they can remain on a person's skin during sleep.
US08048446B2	Electrospun blends of natural and synthetic polymer fibers as tissue engineering scaffolds Non-woven fibrous scaffolds made by electrospinning from the synthetic biodegradable polymer such as, for example, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and natural proteins, such as, for example, gelatin (denatured collagen) and elastin and a method of making thereof.
US08048445B2	Ocular implant made by a double extrusion process The invention provides biodegradable implants sized for implantation in an ocular region and methods for treating medical conditions of the eye. The implants are formed from a mixture of hydrophilic end and hydrophobic end PLGA, and deliver active agents into an ocular region without a high burst release.
US08048438B2	Stable non- aqueous single phase viscous vehicles and formulations utilizing such vehicles This invention relates to stable non-aqueous single phase viscous vehicles and to formulations utilizing such vehicles. The formulations comprise at least one beneficial agent uniformly suspended in the vehicle. The formulation is capable of being stored at temperatures ranging from cold to body temperature for long periods of time. The formulations are capable of being uniformly delivered from drug delivery systems at an exit shear rate of between about 1 to 1×10−7 reciprocal second.
US08048437B2	Medical device with surface coating comprising bioactive compound Coatings comprising protein resistant components and therapeutic components on medical devices are disclosed. The coatings act to down-regulate complement activation. Medical devices can be coated with these coatings to prevent side effects and improve patency.
US08048436B1	Biodegradable tree tag A biodegradable tag having a leaf-shaped body portion and an inwardly spiraling attachment appendage. The tag including at least one seed that is disposed within a seed compartment formed in the body portion. The body portion is formed from a liquid-absorbing material that absorbs a scented animal attractant liquid.
US08048435B2	Preparation of concentrated aqueous bromine solutions and biocidal applications thereof A process of producing a concentrated liquid biocide formulation is described. Mixed together are (a) bromine and (b) an aqueous solution of alkali metal salt of sulfamic acid having a pH of at least about 12, in amounts such that (i) the active bromine content of the solution is at least about 100,000 ppm (wt/wt), and (ii) the atom ratio of nitrogen to active bromine from (a) and (b) is greater than 1. A continuous process for producing the concentrated liquid biocide composition is provided. This process comprises continuously feeding into mixing apparatus (i) bromine and (ii) an aqueous solution of alkali metal salt of sulfamic acid; the desired product is withdrawn from the mixing apparatus at a rate sufficient to enable the continuous feeding to be maintained. Also described are methods for disinfecting surfaces and for sanitizing bodies of water using a single-feed, bromine-based biocide. These methods use concentrated liquid biocide compositions comprising biocidally active bromine as the biocide.
US08048429B2	Inactivated chimeric flavivirus Embodiments of the present invention generally provide an inactivated chimeric virus vaccine and/or immunogenic composition for the treatment or prevention of viral infection. Further, various other embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methods of preventing and treating virus infection in such animals with the inactivated vaccine and/or immunogenic composition. Other embodiments comprise methods of preparing a vaccine or immunogenic composition for the treatment or prevention of viral infection in such animals.
US08048427B2	Subgenomic replicons of the flavivirus dengue The present invention discloses the construction of dengue virus subgenomic replicons containing large deletions in the structural region (C-preM-E) of the genome, which replicons are useful as vaccines to protect against dengue virus infection.
US08048426B2	Extracts from Chlorella An invention relates to an extract of Chlorella sorokiniana, which contains myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and stearic acid. Also related is use of this extract to treat diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidaemia.
US08048425B2	Cytotoxic ribonuclease variants This invention relates to cytotoxic variants of human ribonuclease 1 (RNase 1) identified through analysis of the interaction between RNase 1 and the human ribonuclease inhibitor (hRI) as defined by the three dimensional (3-D) atomic structure of the RNase1 hRI complex. Also disclosed is the 3-D structure of the hRI•RNase 1 complex and methods for designing the RNase 1 variants.
US08048421B2	Agonist antibody to human thrombopoietin receptor This invention provides an agonist antibody to a human thrombopoietin receptor (alias: human c-Mpl). More particularly, this invention provides an agonist antibody to a human thrombopoietin receptor, wherein the agonist antibody comprises: antibody constant regions comprising (1) amino acid sequences in a heavy chain constant region and a light chain constant region of a human antibody, (2) an amino acid sequence of a heavy chain constant region with a domain substituted between human antibody subclasses, and an amino acid sequence of a light chain constant region of a human antibody, or (3) amino acid sequences comprising a deletion(s), substitution(s), addition(s), or insertion(s) of one or several amino acid residues in the amino acid sequences of (1) or (2) above; and antibody variable regions capable of binding to and activating a human thrombopoietin receptor; and wherein the agonist antibody has the properties: (a) that the antibody induces colony formation at a concentration of 10,000 ng/ml or lower as determined by the CFU-MK colony formation assay using human umbilical-cord-blood-derived CD34+ cells; and (b) that the antibody has a maximal activity at least 50% higher than that of PEG-rHuMGDF and an 50% effective concentration (EC50) of 100 nM or less in the cell proliferation assay using UT7/TPO cell. Also provided is a pharmaceutical composition for treating thrombocytopenia comprising said antibody.
US08048419B2	Extracorporeal cell-based therapeutic device and delivery system Extracorporeal cell-based therapeutic devices and delivery systems are disclosed which provide a method for therapeutic delivery of biologically active molecules produced by living cells in response to a dynamic physiologic environment. Exemplary designs are disclosed. In a first exemplary embodiment the device includes long hollow fibers in which a layer of cells are grown within the intraluminal volume or within a double hollow-filled chamber. In another exemplary embodiment the device includes a wafer or a series of wafers forms a substrate onto which cells are grown. The wafer(s) are then inserted into a device. The devices are intended to be extracorporeal. Disclosed is a device for delivering a pre-selected molecule, for example, a hormone, into a mammal's systemic circulation. The device may also deliver a member of different cell products. The device comprises an anchoring element that can be anchored to an inner wall of an extracorporeal tube for blood. The device also comprises a capsule that is held in place within the extracorporeal tube for blood or fluid by an anchor. The device is adapted to secure viable cells which produce and secrete the pre-selected molecule into blood or fluid passing the capsule. The invention also provides a minimally invasive method for percutaneously introducing into a preselected blood vessel or body cavity the device of the invention.
US08048417B2	Anti-human tenascin monoclonal antibody A novel anti-human tenascin ST2146 monoclonal antibody is described endowed with high affinity with the native antigen and high tumor selectivity. The cST2146 hybridoma is stably producing the antibody in high density culture conditions and is suitable for the industrial development of ST2146-based products. ST2146 exhibits properties exploitable for both therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
US08048413B2	Site-specific intestinal delivery of adsorbents, alone or in combination with degrading molecules Compositions which deliver adsorbents, alone or in combination with active drug “degrading molecules,” in a site-specific manner to the intestine, and which eliminate or at least lower the concentration of residual unwanted material within the intestine, are disclosed. Methods of treatment using the compositions are also disclosed. The material to be eliminated can include residual active antibiotics, metabolites, bacterial or other toxins, and drugs which cause side effects in the gastrointestinal tract. The adsorbents can be formulated in capsules, tablets or any acceptable pharmaceutical composition, and are ideally designed to specifically release the adsorbents in a programmed manner at a specific site of the intestinal tract. The programmed delivery prevents adsorbents from interfering with the normal absorption process of a given molecule after oral absorption, until it reaches the lower part of the small intestine. The compositions can be used to adsorb, and therefore remove, any residual drug, metabolite thereof, or bacterial toxin after oral or parenteral administration which would otherwise cause adverse effects in the lower intestine and/or colon.
US08048412B2	Enzyme with microbial lysis activity from Trichoderma reesei The invention provides fungal polypeptides from Trichoderma reesei that possess anti-microbial activity, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, compositions comprising the polypeptides and polynucleotides, and methods of use, thereof.
US08048411B2	Co-transplantation of hepatic stellate cells and islet cells A method of inhibiting graft rejection includes isolating Hepatic Stellate Cells from a mammal liver, activating the isolated Hepatic Stellate Cells, and administering a combination of Hepatic Stellate cells and a graft to a mammal.
US08048409B2	Cellular therapy to heal vascular tissue The present invention encompasses methods and apparatus for minimizing the risks inherent in endovascular grafting for blood vessel therapy and repair. The invention involves delivering adult stem cells, embryonic stem cells, progenitor cells, fibroblasts, or smooth muscle cells to the diseased blood vessel, in some embodiments in conjunction with a stent graft.
US08048406B2	Personal care product A personal care product such as an antiperspirant product includes two portions having different compositions.
US08048403B2	UZM-26 family of crystalline aluminosilicate compositions and method of preparing the compositions This invention relates to a new family of crystalline aluminosilicate compositions designated the UZM-26 family. These include the species UZM-26P, UZM-26PX, UZM-26 and UZM-26X, which have unique structures. UZM-26P is an as synthesized layered composition, while UZM-26 is a calcined form of UZM-26P which has a three-dimensional structure. UZM-26PX is an ion-exchanged form of UZM-26P while UZM-26X is a calcined form of UZM-26PX which has a three-dimensional structure.
US08048402B2	Synthesis of molecular sieves having the chabazite framework type and their use in the conversion of oxygenates to olefins The synthesis of a crystalline aluminophosphate or silicoaluminophosphate molecular sieve having a chabazite-type framework type is conducted in the presence of an organic directing agent having the formula (I) [R1R2R3N—R4]+X− (I) wherein R1, R2 and R3 are independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl groups having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms and hydroxyalkyl groups having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms; R4 is selected from the group consisting of 4- to 8-membered cycloalkyl groups, optionally substituted by 1 to 3 alkyl groups having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms; 4- to 8-membered heterocyclic groups having from 1 to 3 heteroatoms, said heterocyclic groups being optionally substituted by 1 to 3 alkyl groups having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms and the heteroatoms in said heterocyclic groups being selected from the group consisting of O, N, and S; and aromatic groups optionally substituted by 1 to 3 alkyl groups, said alkyl groups having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms; and X− is an anion.
US08048399B2	Ultrafine particle of rutile-type titanium oxide It is provided ultrafine particles of a rutile titanium oxide obtained by maintaining the pH of an aqueous solution of a titanium compound having a Ti concentration of from 0.07 to 5 mol/L in the range of −1 to 3 in the presence of a chelating agent. Such ultrafine particles of a rutile titanium oxide are useful for photocatalysts, high refractive index materials, ultraviolet absorbing materials and the like.
US08048398B2	Process for preparing mixed metal oxide powders Process for preparing a mixed metal oxide powder, in which oxidizable starting materials are evaporated and oxidized, the reaction mixture is cooled after the reaction and the pulverulent solids are removed from gaseous substances, wherein as starting materials, at least one pulverulent metal and at least one metal compound, the metal and the metal component of the metal compound being different and the proportion of metal being at least 80% by weight based on the sum of metal and metal component from metal compound, together with one or more combustion gases, are fed to an evaporation zone of a reactor, where metal and metal compound are evaporated completely under nonoxidizing conditions, subsequently, the mixture flowing out of the evaporation zone is reacted in the oxidation zone of this reactor with a stream of a supplied oxygen-containing gas whose oxygen content is at least sufficient to oxidize the starting materials and combustion gases completely.
US08048391B2	Purifier comprising a photocatalytic filter The present invention relates to a gas purifier containing a filtering media having a photocatalytic action, a system for illuminating said media with UV radiation, a time-delay means or a volatile organic compound analyzer, and a means for automatically adjusting the speed of the gas passing through the media or for adjusting the intensity of the UV illumination, said adjusting being carried out as a function of the time determined by the time-delay means or as a function of the content of a volatile organic compound analyzed by the analyzer.
US08048390B2	Method for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases of vehicles The invention relates to a method for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides using ammonia in exhaust gases of vehicles, whereby solutions of guanidine salts with an ammonia forming potential of between 40 and 850 g/kg, optionally in combination with urea and/or ammonia and/or ammonium salts, are catalytically decomposed in the presence of catalytically active, non-oxidation-active coatings of oxides selected from the group containing titanium dioxide, aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide or the mixtures thereof, and hydrothermally stable zeolites which are fully or partially metal-exchanged. The guanidine salts according to the invention enable a reduction of the nitrogen oxides by approximately 90%. Furthermore, said guanidine salts can enable an increase in the ammonia forming potential from 0.2 kg, corresponding to prior art, up to 0.4 kg ammonia per litre of guanidine salt, along with freezing resistance (freezing point below −25° C.). The risk of corrosion of the guanidine salt solutions used according to the invention is also significantly reduced compared to that of solutions containing ammonium formiate.
US08048385B2	Sensing chip There is provided a sensing chip capable of measuring a refractive index by utilizing a long-range surface plasmon polariton, accurately measuring an accumulative refractive index in a wide range, and more easily enabling sealing for measurement. The present invention relates to the sensing chip which has a thin metal film or a strip-like metal grown on an underlayer, and has a dielectric that limits a refractive index and a dielectric buffer layer on an upper surface and a lower surface of the thin metal film or the strip-like metal. The dielectric buffer layer is attached onto the thin metal film or the strip-like metal. The thin metal film or the strip-like metal and the buffer layer are sandwiched between two dielectric layers. A hole is made in a surface of the upper dielectric layer to serve as a measurement groove.
US08048382B2	Honeycomb structure and exhaust gas treating apparatus A honeycomb structure includes a first end face, a second end face, a honeycomb unit, and an ammonia adsorbing material. The second end face is located opposite to the first end face along a longitudinal direction of the honeycomb structure. The honeycomb unit has plural cell walls extending along the longitudinal direction from the first end face to the second end face to define plural cells. The cell walls include a NOx adsorbing material and an inorganic binder. The ammonia adsorbing material is supported on the cell walls. An amount of the ammonia adsorbing material supported on the cell walls is varied between the first end face and the second end face.
US08048381B2	Apparatus and method for optimizing exhaust gas burn out in combustion plants In an apparatus and method for optimizing the exhaust gas burnout in combustion plants having a solid bed combustion zone and an exhaust gas burnout zone wherein oxygen-containing gas is injected into the exhaust gas flow in the burnout zone by way of a plurality of secondary gas injection nozzles, wherein each injection nozzle is provided with a control valve, means are provided for determining the presence of incompletely burned exhaust gas components in the exhaust gas burn out zone and a control unit converts the signals into control signals by which the valves or group of valves are individually controlled so as to inject oxygen containing gas into the exhaust gas flow in order to concentrate the injection of the oxygen containing secondary gas into the areas in which incompletely burned exhaust gas components are present.
US08048380B2	Process and plant for producing metal oxide from metal compounds A plant for producing metal oxide from metal compounds includes a fluidized-bed reactor in which the metal compounds are heated by a combustion of a fuel to produce metal oxide. The fluidized-bed-reactor reactor includes at least one gas supply tube at least partly surrounded by an annular chamber in which a stationary annular fluidized bed is disposed, and a mixing chamber disposed above an orifice region of the gas supply tube. A gas flowing through the gas supply tube entrains solids from the stationary annular fluidized bed when passing through the orifice region.
US08048374B2	Automatic analyzer An object of the present invention is to provide an automatic analysis method and an automatic analyzer which are suitable for improving throughput by changing reagents during analysis without placing a load on an operator, and without stopping the analysis. There is provided an automatic analysis method comprising the steps of: while moving a reagent transfer mechanism with respect to a reagent pipettor, dispensing a reagent placed in the reagent transfer mechanism by use of the reagent pipettor to cause a sample to react with the dispensed reagent; and measuring the reacted sample so as to analyze specified analysis items of the sample. A reagent is transferred from a reagent storage unit to a reagent changing mechanism. Then, the reagent changing mechanism is moved in synchronization with the reagent transfer mechanism so that reagents are changed during the synchronization.
US08048373B2	Automated high volume slide staining system An automated slide processing apparatus includes a plurality of work stations arranged in a stack, and a transport/elevator for transporting slides between the various work stations.
US08048371B1	Fail-closed adaptive membrane structure Porous adaptive membrane structures having movable membranes are provided. The structures can be made to change their gas, liquid and/or particulate permeability in response to surrounding environmental conditions. Applications includes protective apparel that is comfortable to wear wherein the level of protection provided is based on conditions in the environment. Hence, the protective apparel is highly breathable and comfortable in a non-hazardous environment but impermeable or only semipermeable in a hazardous environment.
US08048370B1	Germicidal generator of ozone and ozonites A combined ozone and ozonites generator and ozone eliminator is disclosed. The device uses different modes of operation to control generation or elimination of ozone, with some modes being used for generating ozonites, some of which are generally less reactive and provide more far reaching beneficial effects than ozone alone. The device uses 185 nm radiation to disassociate atomic oxygen leading to creation of ozone, and uses 254 nm radiation to disassociate ozone, reducing its concentration, with both processes leading to creation of ozonites. These effects are achieved by operating either lamp separately or by operating both lamps simultaneously while drawing air through a chamber containing the lamps.
US08048366B2	Process for making copper tungsten and copper molybdenum composite electronic packaging materials From tungsten or molybdenum powders, a tungsten or molybdenum compact is pressurized and molded into the same dimensions as or slightly larger than the end product and sintered into tungsten or molybdenum skeleton. After copper infiltration, chemical copper etching is applied to remove excess surface copper. A machining allowance with an absolute value >0-≦0.1 mm may be applied for the machining of uneven surfaces resulting from the chemical process of copper removal.
US08048365B2	Crucibles for melting titanium alloys Crucibles for melting titanium alloys having a facecoat including at least one facecoat layer containing an oxide selected from scandium oxide, yttrium oxide, hafnium oxide, a lanthanide series oxide, and combinations thereof, and a backing including at least one backing layer where the crucible has a backing to facecoat thickness ratio of from about 6.5:1 to about 20:1.
US08048363B2	Container with an in-mold label A container having a scented label attached using an in-mold label process and methods of making the same. A scented material is supplied to the label, and the label is attached to the container using an in-mold label process. In another embodiment, a container comprises an interior cavity for retaining a substance, and a label adapted to dispense a scent, wherein the label is disposed on an exterior surface of the container using an in-mold label process. The scent may be suggestive of the content of the container.
US08048362B2	Polyolefin-based resin composition and use thereof A polyolefin-based resin composition of the invention has an addition polymerization-based block copolymer (I) and a polyolefin-based resin (II). The addition polymerization-based block copolymer (I) is selected from block copolymers comprising at least one polymer block A and at least one polymer block B, and the hydrogenated products thereof. The polymer block A comprises an aromatic vinyl compound unit comprising at least 1% by mass of an alkylstyrene-derived structural unit (a), in which at least one alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms is bound to a benzene ring. The polymer block B comprises a conjugated diene compound unit. A moiety of polymer block A can undergo crosslinking upon exposure to an active energy ray. After being molded into a desired shape, the composition is exposed to an active energy ray to carry out the crosslinking reaction. The composition exhibits flexibility, heat resistance, mechanical properties and solvent resistance in a well-balanced manner.
US08048360B2	Method for curing resin with ultrasound A method for curing a resin includes the steps of placing the resin into a reaction vessel, drawing a vacuum in the reaction vessel, positioning the reaction vessel in a gaseous coupling fluid, and applying ultrasonic energy to the coupling fluid.
US08048357B2	Resin infusion potting A process for forcibly infusing liquid potting compound into the exposed strands of a cable prior to forming a termination. The process uses a mold that encloses the exposed strands. Potting compound is then pumped into the mold, where it runs around and through the exposed strands. A second venting passage is preferably employed, so that the liquid potting compound flows through the mold without trapping any air pockets.
US08048355B2	Method of making a bicycle rim A bicycle rim includes a substantially H-shaped outer part including an annular body and two sidewalls. A tire space is defined between the annular body and the two sidewalls. A substantially U-shaped inner part is connected to the outer part. The inner part and the outer part are made by composite material. The outer part is made before the inner part which is combined with the outer part in another mold.
US08048354B2	Method of forming supports bearing features, such as lithography masks To manufacture a support made of at least one predetermined material and bearing features: a plurality of superposed layers is produced on a substrate that it is known how to remove, each of the layers being formed from zones of at least two different materials, the geometry of the zones and the constituent materials of these superposed layers being defined so as to form said features, on the reverse side of the substrate, these features being of 3D type, and some of these features differing in height among themselves and/or with other features; a layer of the predetermined material is produced on this multilayer stack; and at least the substrate is eliminated whereby, after inversion, said support with said features is obtained.
US08048353B2	Multilayer polymeric product based on polyethylene terephthalate and polycarbonate and its use as a building material A multilayer polymeric product is described, which consists of a co-extruded internal central layer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) copolymer, in a quantity ranging from 80 to 90% by weight with respect to the total weight of the internal layer, mixed with polycarbonate (PC), in a quantity ranging from 10 to 20% by weight with respect to the total weight of the layer, and outer, side layers, of a blend of PET, in a quantity ranging from 15 to 25% by weight with respect to the total weight of the outer layers, and PC, in a quantity ranging from 75 to 85% by weight with respect to the total weight of said outer layers, in particular for use as a building material.
US08048351B2	Bio-pharmaceutical hose A hose for use in bio-pharmaceutical applications includes an innermost tubular layer made from a fluoropolymer material. The tubular layer has an inner, relatively smooth and pure surface that defines an opening for transfer of various media. A layer of silicone is disposed next to an outer surface of the innermost tubular layer through use of, for example, an extrusion method. The outer surface of the tubular layer may first be modified by various treatments or chemicals to facilitate the adhesion of the silicone layer thereto. The silicone material may be solid or foamed. A reinforcement layer may be disposed adjacent to an outer surface of the silicone layer. The reinforcement layer may be formed of a wire braid having gaps. An outer jacket of silicone may be attached to the reinforcement layer and to the inner silicone layer through the gaps in the reinforcement layer.
US08048348B2	Shape memory polyurethane foam for downhole sand control filtration devices Filtration devices may include a shape-memory material having a compressed run-in position or shape and an original expanded position or shape. The shape-memory material may include an open cell porous rigid polyurethane foam material held in the compressed run-in position at the temperature below glass transition temperature (Tg). The foam material in its compressed run-in position may be covered with a fluid-dissolvable polymeric film and/or a layer of fluid-degradable plastic. Once filtration devices are in place in downhole and are contacted by the fluid for a given amount of time at temperature, the devices may expand and totally conform to the borehole to prevent the production of undesirable solids from the formation.
US08048345B2	Zirconium oxide-based dental implant and method for producing said dental implant A dental implant for a patient includes an anchoring part to anchor the dental implant in the bone and an abutment that is designed for fixation of a crown or similar supraconstruction and is or can be connected to the anchoring part. The anchoring part and the abutment are manufactured on a zirconium-oxide basis. The anchoring part and the abutment have special sections corresponding to the individual dimensions of the patient's bone and/or gums, said sections comprising a roughened surface designed to promote bone fusion. The special sections are produced on the green compact before the latter is finally sintered.
US08048343B2	Light filters using yellow melanin and melanin-like oligomers and photochromic dyes Light filters that use yellow melanin or melanin like materials prepared to have a yellow color and a melanin transmission spectrum in combination with a photochromic dye are disclosed. The yellow form of melanin has minimal impact on the perception of light intensity with transmission values greater than 80%. The combination allows for a single light filter suitable for both night driving and sunglass applications and which also preserve color perception.
US08048342B2	Sol-gel composition for fabricating conductive fibers Disclosed herein are sol-gel compositions for fabricating conductive fibers in an electrospinning process and methods for producing the same.
US08048341B2	Nanocarbon-reinforced polymer composite and method of making A method of making a polymer composite from a mixture of a polymeric material, carbon nanofibers, and nano-scale particles is provided. The carbon nanofibers are less than about 1 micrometer in diameter, and the nano-scale particles are shorter in length than the carbon nanofibers. The nano-scale particles are selected from nano-scale carbon additives, non-conductive nano-clays, nano-scale conductive metallic additives, or combinations thereof. The components are mixed to form a polymer composite. A polymer composite having a resistivity of less than about 107 ohm-cm is also described.
US08048338B2	Phosphor, phosphor sheet, and manufacturing method therefore, and light emission device using the phosphor To provide a phosphor having a broad emission spectrum in a range of blue color (in a peak wavelength range from 400 nm to 500 nm), having a broad flat excitation band in a near ultraviolet/ultraviolet range, and having excellent emission efficiency and emission intensity/luminance. The phosphor is given as a general composition formula expressed by MmAaBbOoNn:Z, (where element M is the element having bivalent valency, element A is the element having tervalent valency, element B is the element having tetravalent valency, O is oxygen, N is nitrogen, and element Z is more than one kind of element acting as an activator), satisfying 5.0<(a+b)/m<9.0, 0≦a/m≦2.0, 0≦o≦n, n=2/3m+a+4/3b−2/3o, and has an emission spectrum with a maximum peak in the wavelength range from 400 nm to 500 nm under an excitation of the light in a wavelength range from 250 nm to 430 nm.
US08048337B2	Organic memory device using iridium organometallic compound and fabrication method thereof Disclosed are a composition comprising a mixture of at least one iridium organometallic compound and an electrically conductive polymer, an organic active layer comprising the same, an organic memory device comprising the organic active layer and methods for fabricating the same. The organic memory device may include a first electrode, a second electrode and the organic active layer between the first and second electrodes. The organic memory device possesses the advantages of rapid switching time, decreased operating voltage, decreased fabrication costs, increased reliability and improved non-volatility.
US08048336B2	Polymerizable cholesteric liquid crystal composition and its use A polymerizable cholesteric liquid crystal composition in the invention includes at least one compound selected from the group consisting of a polymerizable ester compound (1) having a residue of a hydrolysate of γ-oryzanol (A) and having a ring structure, a polymerizable ester compound (2) having a residue of a hydrolysate of γ-oryzanol (A) and having no ring structures, and a polymerizable ester compound (3) having a residue of a hydrogenated product of γ-oryzanol.
US08048333B2	Chemical method for soil improvement A composition for chemical soil improvement includes a synthetic fluid or base oil, a pour point depressant, polyisobutylene, and synthetic fibers, and various combinations thereof.
US08048331B2	Etching composition and etching process An etching composition which comprises at least one organic carboxylic acid compound selected from acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, malonic acid, maleic acid, glutaric acid, aconitic acid, 1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid and ammonium salts of these acids, a polysulfonic acid compound and water, and an etching process which comprises etching a conductive film comprising zinc oxide as the main component using the etching composition described above.
US08048329B2	Methods for implementing highly efficient plasma traps A method for minimizing microwave leakage into processing chamber of a microwave plasma system is provided. The method includes securing plasma traps to a plasma tube assembly, which is a cylindrical structure positioned upstream from the processing chamber and has a plasma-sustaining region. The plasma traps are electrically conductive disks surrounding the cylindrical structure and are positioned upstream from the processing chamber. The plasma traps include at least two electrically conductive disks. Each electrically conductive disk includes corrugated outer surfaces with plurality of corrugated peaks. The corrugated outer surface of the first electrically conductive disk is facing a corrugated outer surface of the second electrically conductive disk in a space-apart relationship to form an interstitial region between the electrically conductive disks. Both electrically conductive disk and the interstitial region form one of a set of upstream plasma traps and a set of downstream plasma traps relative to the plasma-sustaining region.
US08048328B2	Method for shaping a magnetic field in a magnetic field-enhanced plasma reactor Methods for rotating a magnetic field in a process chamber is provided herein. In one embodiment, a method for rotating a magnetic field in a process chamber includes forming a magnetic field having a primary shape; changing the primary shape to at least two sequential transitional shapes; and changing the transitional shape to a rotated primary shape. Optionally, the magnetic field may be maintained at an approximately constant magnitude throughout each step. Optionally, a maximum of one current applied to one or more magnetic field producing coils is equal to zero or has its polarity reversed between any two adjacent steps.
US08048327B2	Plasma processing apparatus and control method thereof In a plasma processing apparatus for processing an object to be processed by generating plasma in a processing chamber: a first electrode is arranged in the processing chamber and a second electrode is arranged to face the first electrode in the processing chamber; a first and a second power systems include a first and a second power supplies for supplying a first and a second powers to the first and the second electrodes, respectively; and a control unit controls both or either one of the first and the second power systems so as to apply a preprocessing voltage to the second electrode for a time period before plasma processing is performed on the object.
US08048324B2	Method of manufacturing optical waveguide and method of manufacturing package board A method of manufacturing an optical waveguide includes: forming a first reflective bump and a second reflective bump, which have inclined surfaces formed on sides opposite to each other and which are disposed with a predetermined distance in-between, on an upper side of a conductive carrier; polishing the surfaces of the first reflective bump and the second reflective bump; forming a core between the first reflective bump and the second reflective bump; stacking an upper cladding over the upper side of the carrier to cover the first reflective bump, the second reflective bump, and the core; removing the carrier; and stacking a lower cladding over a lower side of the upper cladding. Forming reflective bumps on a conductive carrier, and polishing the reflective bumps to form inclined surfaces, can reduce lead time and can provide a high degree of freedom in design.
US08048320B2	Method and apparatus for collecting biological materials A method and apparatus for separating and concentrating a selected component from a multi-component material. The multi-component material may include a whole sample such as adipose tissue, whole blood, or the like. The apparatus generally includes a moveable piston positioned within a separation container and a withdrawal tube that is operable to interact with a distal end of the collection container past the piston. Material can be withdrawn through the withdrawal tube.
US08048318B1	Recovering packaged ingredients from multi-component product packets A process for recovering packaged ingredients from multi-component product packets, comprises the steps of: (a) Providing a supply of multi-component product packets that contain at least two components; (b) orienting the multi-component product packets so that one of the components is in a desired position and feeding the oriented multi-component product packets to a breaching station; (c) breaching the multi-component product packets so as to access one of the components; (d) manipulating the multi-component product packets to collect the component accessed in step (c); and (e) further manipulating the multi-component product packets to release and collect another one of the components.
US08048317B2	Generation of free radicals, analytical methods, bacterial disinfections, and oxidative destruction of organic chemicals using zero valent iron and other metals Disclosed are methods for chemical analysis, bacterial disinfection, oxidative destruction and/or mineralization of organic compounds comprising using zero-valent iron and/or zero-valent iron-containing bimetallic compounds, preferably in acidic solution and/or in the presence of oxygen.
US08048315B2	Fluid treatment arrangements and methods Fluid treatment arrangements and methods involve a plurality of fluid treatment modules and a core assembly that extends through the plurality of fluid treatment modules. Each fluid treatment module has a feed region, a permeate region, and a fluid treatment medium separating the feed region from the permeate region. The feed region extends along a feed surface of the fluid treatment medium, and the permeate region extends along a permeate surface of the fluid treatment region. Feed fluid is directed along the feed region of each module, and a portion of the feed fluid passes as permeate through the fluid treatment medium, into the permeate region, and then into the core assembly. One or more control mechanisms are fluidly coupled to the permeate region of one or more fluid treatment modules to control a flow parameter in the permeate region of the module.
US08048313B2	Method and apparatus for preventing scale deposits and removing contaminants from fluid columns A method and apparatus of fluid treatment for a plurality of fluids with a first and a second non-magnetically conductive fluid flow conduit sleeved within at least one segment of magnetically conductive conduit providing a plurality of distinct areas of concentrated magnetic energy. The instant invention prevents the formation and accumulation of contaminants within conduits and on equipment utilized in the transportation, delivery and processing of fluid columns. It may also be utilized to accelerate the separation of oil and water and increase the efficiency of oil/water separation equipment.
US08048307B2	Dynamic filtration device using centrifugal force The present invention generally relates to a filtration system having one or more apparatuses for filtering gases, liquids, or fluids (e.g., water) to remove particulate matter, and methods of making and using the apparatus. More particularly, embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for applying centrifugal force(s) to push a fluid or gas to be filtered through a porous membrane or filter within the apparatus to separate particulate matter therefrom. The present invention takes advantage of the Coriolis effect within a cylindrical filter radiating out from a rotating central body. The filtration apparatus provides an energy efficient system for microfiltration (or other filtration process) to remove contaminants from gases and fluids, such as waste water.
US08048306B2	Scouring method A method and apparatus for removing fouling materials from the surface of a plurality of porous membranes (9) arranged in a membrane module (4) by providing, from within the module, by means (10) other than gas passing through the pores of said membranes, gas bubbles in a uniform distribution relative to the porous membrane array such that the bubbles move past the surfaces of the membranes (9) to dislodge fouling materials therefrom. The membranes (9) are arranged in close proximity to one another and mounted to prevent excessive movement therebetween. The bubbles also produce vibration and rubbing together of the membranes to further assist removal of fouling materials.
US08048294B2	Process for reducing bromine index of hydrocarbon feedstocks A process for reducing the Bromine Index of a hydrocarbon feedstock, the process comprising the step of contacting the hydrocarbon feedstock with a catalyst at conversion conditions, wherein the catalyst includes at least one molecular sieve and at least one clay, and wherein said catalyst is sufficient to reduce more than 50% of the Bromine Index of a hydrocarbon feedstock.
US08048291B2	Heavy oil upgrader Systems and methods for processing one or more hydrocarbons are provided. One or more hydrocarbons can be selectively separated to provide one or more heavy deasphalted oils. At least a portion of the heavy deasphalted oil can be thermally cracked to provide one or more lighter hydrocarbon products.
US08048289B2	Parallel patch clamp system A system for high-throughput analysis of membranous samples having ion channels including at least one membranous sample, a multi-compartment structure including an extracellular chamber, an opposing intracellular chamber and a partition separating the extracellular and intracellular chambers, the partition having a plurality of apertures fluidly and electrically coupling the extracellular and intracellular chambers, wherein at least one of the apertures is sealed by the at least one membranous sample, and another of the apertures is unsealed, a electric source configured to apply a current between the extracellular and intracellular chambers, wherein a portion of the current travels through the unsealed aperture, and a current sensor configured to measure the current between the extracellular and intracellular chambers. A method of using the system is also disclosed.
US08048287B2	Method for selectively removing conductive material from a microelectronic substrate Methods and apparatuses for selectively removing conductive materials from a microelectronic substrate. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes positioning the microelectronic substrate proximate to and spaced apart from an electrode pair that includes a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode. An electrolytic liquid can be directed through a first flow passage to an interface region between the microelectronic substrate and the electrode pair. A varying electrical signal can be passed through the electrode pair and the electrolytic liquid to remove conductive material from the microelectronic substrate. The electrolytic liquid can be removed through a second flow passage proximate to the first flow passage and the electrode pair.
US08048282B2	Apparatus and method for plating a substrate A plating apparatus and method bubbles generated at the plating surfaces easily removed and the uniformity of the thickness of the plated film within the plated surface can be improved. The plating apparatus has a cassette table for loading a cassette in which a substrate having a plating surface is contained. An aligner for aligning the substrate, a rinser-dryer for rinsing and drying the substrate, and a plating unit for plating the substrate are also provided. The plating unit includes a plating vessel containing a plating solution, and a holder holds the substrate to immerse the substrate in the plating solution in the plating vessel. The plating surface is exposed to a nozzle which ejects the plating solution toward the plating surface.
US08048281B2	Method for producing tight pitched coil with reduced processing steps Methods for fabricating thin film magnetic head coil structures are disclosed. The methods disclose deposition of a first thick seed layer, followed by deposition of an ultra-thin second seed layer. Coil structures having sub-micron pitch and high aspect ratios are deposited on the second ultra-thin seed layer, which is removed from between the coil windings via an isotropic etch process such as wet etching or RIE. Subsequent to selective removal of the ultra-thin second seed layer, the first thick seed layer is utilized to deposit pole and backgap structures, eliminating the need to deposit (and remove) a subsequent seed layer on the coil structure.
US08048278B2	Reference electrode having a flowing liquid junction and filter members A flowing junction reference electrode comprising a liquid junction member matched with a filter. The junction member and the filter are situated between a reference electrolyte solution and a sample solution. An array of nanochannels spans the junction member and provides fluid communication between the electrolyte solution and the sample solution. The filter is configured to allow a greater flux of electrolyte than that associated with the junction member. Preferably, the number of pores is greater than the number of nanochannels. The filter is preferably configured to have pores with an inner diameter that is the same or less than the inner diameter of the nanochannels. In some embodiment, the resistance of the filter is made lower relative to the resistance of the junction member by selecting suitable length, number, and inner diameter size for the pores of the filter relative to the nanochannels of the junction member.
US08048276B2	Electrolysis apparatus Solid oxide stacks used as fuel cells generate electricity from hydrogen or other sources. By an electrolysis process such standard fuel cells can be operated in order to create hydrogen or other electro chemical by-products. Unfortunately stacks generally operate at relatively high temperatures which will be difficult to sustain purely on economic grounds. In such circumstances less efficient operation can be achieved at lower temperatures where the air-specific resistance is higher by balancing with the electrical power input in order to cause the disassociation required. In such circumstances by provision of an incident heat source, whether that be through a heat exchanger heating the compressed air flow, or recycling of a proportion of exhaust from the stack, or combustion of a product from stack disassociation the result will be a sustaining electrolysis operation reducing the amount of expensive electrical supply required to achieve dissociation.
US08048273B2	Arrangement for treatment of cellulose pulp A washer for washing and dewatering of cellulose pulp is disclosed, comprising a rotatable drum with a plurality of outer compartments for the pulp to be washed defined by axial compartment walls distributed along the circumference of the drum, a stationary cylindrical casing that encloses the drum, whereby an annular space is defined between the casing and the drum, the annular space divided by means of longitudinal seals in the axial direction of the drum into zones for forming, washing and discharge of the pulp. At least two of the longitudinal seals are arranged such that, when the drum rotates, they meet compartment walls at shifted points in time with respect to each other. Preferably, all of these longitudinal seals are arranged along the circumference of the drum at different positions with respect to respective opposite axial compartment walls.
US08048272B2	Arrangement for the treatment of cellulose pulp involving seal positioning means A washer for washing and dewatering cellulose pulp is disclosed, comprising a rotary drum with a plurality of external compartments on the drum defined by axial compartment walls distributed along the circumference of the drum, a stationary cylindrical casing enclosing the drum, defining a ring-shaped space between the casing and the drum, and longitudinal seals in the axial direction of the drum diving the ring-shaped space into a forming zone for forming the pulp, at least one washing zone for washing the pulp at an overpressure, and a discharge zone, and where the longitudinal axial seals are attached to positioning cylinders for adjusting the radial position of the seals, and the longitudinal seal has an articulated connection with the positioning cylinders to make possible oblique positioning of the seal.
US08048271B2	Arrangement for washing and dewatering cellulose pulp Apparatus for washing and dewatering cellulose pulp is disclosed comprising: a rotatable press roll having a perforated outer surface for dewatering the pulp; a stationary guide surface arranged at a distance from the perforated outer surface so as to enclose the press roll in the circumferential direction, such that a substantially closed vat is defined between stationary guide surface and the press roll; a pulp passage, being provided between the perforated outer surface and its stationary guide surface, such that during operation, pulp is transported in the direction of rotation and, at the end of the pulp passage, is pressed in a pinch between the press roll and a second press roll. A radial distance between the stationary guide surface and the associated press roll is generally increasing towards the pinch, such that the vat diverges, towards the pinch.
US08048269B2	Forming section A forming section has a lower wire loop (11), which constitutes a single-wire section (T) following a breast roll (12). A first dewatering zone (Z1) has at least one stationary, first forming shoe (40) followed by a pulsating strip cover (50). The first forming shoe has leading and trailing edges and underpressure affecting through holes of the cover. The holes are openings or slots substantially in the longitudinal direction of the machine, whereby non-pulsating dewatering is applied on the stock travelling on top of the lower wire. A pulp suspension jet is fed from a headbox (30) at an impact point after the shoe leading edge. The cover is straight at least in the area between the impact point of the pulp suspension jet and the trailing edge. The impact of the pulp suspension jet on the forming wire is thus better controlled in a better way, increasing production speed.
US08048268B2	Method of controlling organic contaminants in pulp and paper making processes Method for controlling the deposition of organic contaminants from the pulp and papermaking systems using water soluble aminoplast ether copolymers is described herein. The aminoplast ether copolymer can be used alone or in combination with one or more additives. The pulps to be treated include mechanical, chemical, semi-chemical pulps; sulfide pulp; recycled old newspapers; mixed office wastes; corrugated boxes; and their combinations. The use of water soluble aminoplast ether copolymers to control or prevent pitch and stickies deposition improves down stream performance of papermaking equipment increasing mill efficiency and improving paper quality.
US08048266B2	Method of manufacturing a multilayer fibrous product A method of manufacturing a multilayer fibrous product. The product comprises at least two overlapping layers, each of which has a different fiber composition, and in the production of the product, chemical short stock is used at least partly. In the method, short stock is brought to a screening stage where fines, which pass a screen having an average hole size of 0.2-1.5 mm, are separated from it, in order to prepare at least two fiber fractions having different fiber compositions, and the fractions generated are recovered and included in different layers of the same fibrous product. With the invention, it is possible to screen an initial material and form a product which has better properties than a corresponding product, the initial material pulp of which has only been refined.
US08048264B2	Composition and process for the treatment of fibre material The present invention relates to a stabilizing composition comprising following components (A) a polymer having following formula wherein R1 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group containing 1 to 12 carbon atoms, R2 is —COOM or —CH2COOM, M is a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal ion, an alkaline earth metal ion, an ammonium ion or a mixture thereof, n, m and k are molar ratios of corresponding monomers, wherein n is 0 to 0.95, m is 0.05 to 0.9, and k is 0 to 0.8, and (n+m+k) equals 1, and the weight average molecular weight is between 500 and 20,000,000 g/mol, (B) a chelating agent, and (C) an alkaline earth metal compound. The invention also relates to a process for the treatment of a fiber material.
US08048262B2	Rapid fatty acid assay for use in pulp pitch control Methods are provided for determining the surface fatty acid content in a wood pulp or whitewater sample. The methods comprise reacting free fatty acids which are present on the surface of the wood pulp fibers in the sample or in the whitewater with one or more reagents to form a measurable species, and determining the fatty acid content from the quantitative measurement of the measurable species. The method is useful as a quick, portable, accurate and low cost assay for assessing the fatty acid content present at various sample points in pulp and paper mills. The method for determining the free fatty acid content can be conducted in a batch process (e.g., where samples are collected periodically and the test is conducted offline). Alternatively, the method for determining the free fatty acid content can be conducted in a continuous or semi-continuous process (e.g., online sampling/analysis).
US08048256B2	Carbon nanotube film structure and method for fabricating the same A carbon nanotube film structure includes at least two overlapped carbon nanotube films, with adjoining films being aligned in different directions. Each carbon nanotube film includes a plurality of successive carbon nanotube bundles aligned in the same direction. The carbon nanotube structure further includes a plurality of micropores formed by/between the adjoining carbon nanotube bundles. A method for fabricating the carbon nanotube film structure includes the steps of: (a) providing an array of carbon nanotubes; (b) pulling out, using a tool, one carbon nanotube film from the array of carbon nanotubes; (c) providing a frame and adhering the carbon nanotube film to the frame; (d) repeating steps (b) and (c), depositing each successive film on a preceding film, thereby achieving at least a two-layer carbon nanotube film; and (e) peeling the carbon nanotube film off the frame to achieve the carbon nanotube structure.
US08048255B2	Heatset annuloplasty suture guide An implantable annuloplasty suture guide is intended to lie against at least a portion of an annulus surrounding a human heart. The implantable annuloplasty suture guide is made of an elongated ribbon of braided, heat setable material. The braided, heat-setable material is heat-set in a curved lengthwise configuration corresponding to at least a portion of the annulus of the human heart valve. A method of making an implantable annuloplasty suture guide configured to lie against at least a portion of an annulus defined by tissue surrounding a human heart. The method includes the steps of providing an elongate biocompatible ribbon comprising a braided, heat setable material. A fixture is provided, with the fixture comprising a heat conducting material defining an elongate cavity having a curved length-wise configuration corresponding to at least a portion of the annulus defined by the tissue surrounding the human heart. The elongate biocompatible ribbon is placed in the cavity and the fixture is heated to provide a select temperature for a select time in the cavity, the select temperature and the select time being sufficient to heat-set the elongate biocompatible ribbon in the curved length-wise configuration.
US08048254B2	Mounting method A mounting method is provided for mounting electric components on both faces of a substrate. Because the electric components on a front face and a rear face of the substrate are simultaneously pressed with first and second pressing rubbers, the electric components can be connected to the front face and the rear face of the substrate at a time. Because the peripheries of the first and second pressing rubbers are surrounded by a dam member when the first and second pressing rubbers deform, the first and second pressing rubbers are dammed by the dam member and not spread. Thus, positional slip of the electric components does not occur. Because the electric components are connected to the substrate at the same positions as at the time of temporary compression bonding, an electric component having high connection reliability is obtained.
US08048248B2	Method of and apparatus for winding a fiber strand onto a bobbin An apparatus for winding a fiber strand onto a bobbin having a longitudinal axis has a support holding the bobbin for rotation about the axis, a supply for feeding the fiber strand in a travel direction generally radially or tangentially to the bobbin, and a drive for rotating the bobbin about the longitudinal axis and for, when a fiber strand is engaged with the bobbin, winding the fiber strand onto the bobbin. A handling device is rotatable about the axis adjacent the bobbin and carries a strand layer for at a start of a winding operation moving into a predetermined angular position and pressing a leading end of the fiber strand against the bobbin. The handler also carries a cutter on the handling device for at an end of a winding operation cutting the fiber strand and thereby forming a trailing end attached to the bobbin and a new leading end.
US08048245B2	Analytic substrate coating method An apparatus and method for producing a coated analytic substrate using a compact and portable automated instrument located in the laboratory setting at the point of use which can consistently produce one or a plurality of coated analytic substrates “on demand” for using the analytic substrate immediately after coating, preferably without a step of rinsing the coated analytic substrate before use. The apparatus preferably uses applicator cartridges having a reservoir containing the coating compositions used to form the coatings. Preferably the cartridges are removable and interchangeable to facilitate the production of individual analytic substrates having different coatings or different coating patterns. These coated analytic substrates have superior specimen adhesion characteristics due to the improved quality of the coatings applied by the coating apparatus and due to the quickness with which the coated analytic substrates can be used in the lab after production.
US08048242B1	Nanocomposite thermite ink A nanocomposite thermite ink for use in inkjet, screen, and gravure printing. Embodiments of this invention do not require separation of the fuel and oxidizer constituents prior to application of the ink to the printed substrate.
US08048241B1	Explosive device A high energy, stable, electrically activated explosive replacement comprises at least a mixture of a metal, a highly-halogenated polymer moiety (HHPM) and a reduced (or non-) halogenated polymer moiety (RHPM). These replacements can also be used as detonators, initiators, or explosive devices alone or with other explosive systems and materials. The two polymer moieties, the HHPM and RHPM, may be provided in the following manners and generally in the following proportions. The halogen on the polymer preferably comprises chlorine or fluorine, preferably fluorine, and preferably at least 50% of halogen atoms in the polymer comprise fluorine. The fluorine is preferably provided on the polymer backbone (as in polymers formed from ethylenically unsaturated monomeric units such as tetrafluoroethylene, trifluoromonochloroethylene, difluorodichloroethylene, trichloromonofluoroethylene, trifluoroethylene, and the like).
US08048237B2	Ultra soft high carbon hot rolled steel sheet and method for manufacturing same An ultra soft high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet has excellent workability. The steel sheet is a high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet containing 0.2 to 0.7% C, and has a structure in which mean grain size of ferrite is 20 μm or larger, the volume percentage of ferrite grains having 10 μm or smaller size is 20% or less, mean diameter of carbide is in a range from 0.10 μm to smaller than 2.0 μm, the percentage of carbide grains having 5 or more of aspect ratio is 15% or less, and the contact ratio of carbide is 20% or less.
US08048234B2	Method of cleaning pipes by action of a fluid under very high pressure The invention relates to a method of cleaning a pipe (12) by action of a fluid under very high pressure. It is characterised in that the fluid under very high pressure is caused to pass in a flexible tube (14); said tube is subjected to the action of motorisation means (5) for longitudinal advance, and means for driving the tube (14) in rotation around its longitudinal axis; these motorisation means (50) are regulated by management means (48) and rotation detection means (47) and/or pinpointing longitudinal advance, and these means of driving in rotation; the tube (14) is guided near the entrance of the pipe (12). The invention also relates to a device for implementing this method.
US08048229B2	Apparatus for depositing an organic layer and method for controlling a heating unit thereof An apparatus for depositing an organic layer and a method for controlling the heating unit thereof are provided. The apparatus includes a crucible positioned in a deposition chamber and containing materials for evaporation. The apparatus also includes a heating unit having first and second heat sources for heating the crucible. A housing isolates the heat emitted from the heating unit and an outer wall anchors the crucible. A nozzle sprays the materials evaporated from the crucible. The first and second heat sources are positioned on first and second sides of the crucible, respectively, and are independently controlled to minimize the time required to stabilize the deposition rate.
US08048222B2	Highly pure modafinil The present invention provides an improved process for preparing modafinil, whereby it may be isolated in high purity by a single crystallization. The process produces modafinil free of sulphone products of over-oxidation and other byproducts. The invention further provides new crystalline Forms II-VI of modafinil and processes for preparing them. Each of the new forms is differentiated by a unique powder X-ray diffraction pattern. The invention further provides pharmaceutical compositions containing novel modafinil Forms II-IV and VI.
US08048220B2	Method for producing a strained layer on a substrate and layered structure The invention relates to a method for producing a strained layer. Said method comprises the following steps: placing the layer on a substrate and straining it, structuring the strained layer, relaxing the layer, producing directional off-sets in the layer to be strained. A layered structure produced in this manner has triaxially strained layers.
US08048217B2	Powdery composition based on a calco-magnesian compound The invention relates to a powder composition based on a calcium/magnésium compound having formula (I), xCaA.(1−x)[yMgA+(1−y)MgO], in which A is a group ═(OH)2 or ═CO3 and x and y are mole fractions where 0
US08048215B2	Primer coating of steel A process for primer coating steel which is intended to be fabricated and overcoated, in which process the steel is primer coated with a primer coating comprising a silica binder. The binder comprises alumina-stabilized aqueous silica sol and, optionally, a minor amount of alkali metal silicate. The binder has a SiO2/M2O mole ratio, wherein M represents the total of alkali metal and ammonium ions, of at least 6:1. After the primer coating has dried to the extent that it is touch dry, it is optionally treated with a solution which increases the film strength of the primer coating.
US08048211B2	Tank with a gas extraction device for storing cryogenic liquid or fuel for spacecraft A tank arrangement includes a tank for storing a liquid such as fuel or oxidizer for operation of a spacecraft and a pressurized driving gas for conveying the liquid out of the tank, and a gas supply and extraction device. The device includes a housing shell and plural outwardly expanding passage bodies providing openings that communicate the interior space of the tank to the inner reservoir space of the device. A baffle plate shields the outer opening of each passage body. Deflector plates are arranged in each passage body. Capillary plates extend longitudinally along the inner wall of the housing shell. By a capillary effect, the plates separate liquid from gas entering the device, so that the gas can be extracted while the liquid is stored in a reservoir of the device until it is drained back into the tank during an accelerated operation phase of the spacecraft.
US08048210B2	Web comprising fine fiber and reactive, adsorptive or absorptive particulate The assemblies of the invention can comprise a fine fiber layer having dispersed within the fine fiber layer an active particulate material. Fluid that flows through the assemblies of the invention can have any material dispersed or dissolved in the fluid react with, be absorbed by, or adsorbed onto, the active particulate within the nanofiber layer. The structures of the invention can act simply as reactive, absorptive, or adsorptive layers with no filtration properties, or the structures of the invention can be assembled into filters that can filter particulate from a mobile fluid while simultaneously reacting, absorbing, or adsorbing materials from the mobile fluid.
US08048207B1	Method for delivering a fluid to a diesel particulate filter A conduit may be used to deliver a pressurized fluid to a cell of a diesel particulate filter to clean the cell. The pressurized fluid may remove particulate matter from the cell. The conduit may be moved within the cell to dislodge particulate matter within the cell. The conduit may be manually or automatically inserted into the cell.
US08048204B2	Wall assembly A method of mixing polluted air with less polluted air to provide moderately polluted air. The method includes dividing air from a roadway region into a lower part and an upper part, and permitting at least a portion of the upper part to flow substantially in one or more flow directions toward a leeward region. The method also includes directing the lower part substantially upwardly in a direction substantially transverse to the flow direction to intersect with the upper part and to mix the polluted air with the less polluted air, to provide the moderately polluted air proximal to the leeward area.
US08048202B2	Method for treatment of process waters using steam Systems and methods for treating water. Water containing one or more thermally destructible contaminants can be contacted with steam to provide an effluent containing essentially contaminant-free water and a recycle containing the steam and at least a portion of the one or more thermally destructible contaminants. The one or more thermally destructible contaminants in the recycle can be thermally destroyed using one or more combustion processes.
US08048198B2	High performance mixed matrix membranes incorporating at least two kinds of molecular sieves The present invention discloses a new type of high performance mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) and methods for making and using the same. The MMMs comprise a continuous polymer matrix and at least two types of molecular sieves dispersed therein. The continuous polymer matrix in the MMM contains at least one type of polymer. The MMM in the form of a dense film, asymmetric flat sheet membrane or otherwise prepared exhibits simultaneously improved selectivity and permeability for gas separations compared to polymer membranes made from a continuous polymer matrix without any molecular sieves or with only one type of molecular sieve. MMMs of the present invention are suitable for a wide range of gas, vapor, and liquid separations such as alcohol/water, CO2/CH4, H2/CH4, O2/N2, CO2/N2, olefin/paraffin, iso/normal paraffins, and other light gases separations.
US08048193B2	Method for producing gold colloid and gold colloid It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for producing gold colloid having a targeted particle size, a sharp particle size distribution and a uniform and perfect spherical shape. The present invention relates to a method for producing gold colloid including a nucleation step of forming nuclear colloidal particles by adding a first reducing agent to a first gold salt solution; and a growth step of growing nuclear colloid by adding a second gold salt and a second reducing agent to the solution of the nuclear colloidal particles, characterized in that the growth step is performed at least once; a citrate is used as the first reducing agent and an ascorbate is used as the second reducing agent; and the addition of the ascorbate in the growth step is performed simultaneously with addition of the second gold salt. According to the method for producing gold colloid of the present invention, gold colloid having a sharp particle size distribution and a uniform and perfect spherical shape can be obtained.
US08048186B2	Filter retention systems and devices A system, in certain embodiments, includes a filter holding frame configured to support a plurality of filters for a turbine engine. The filter holding frame has a first filter cell and a first retainer. The first retainer has a first retaining pad coupled to a first shaft, wherein the first retaining pad and the first shaft are movable to secure and release a first filter in the first filter cell.
US08048184B1	Baffle tool A baffle tool operative to manually install and remove commercial grill baffles and filters has a longitudinally extensive handle. First and second filter plates pivotally attach to the handle and are operative to couple through a set of prongs with a commercial grill filter. An actuating handle is moveable relative to the longitudinally extensive handle. First and second linking rods extend between the filter plates and actuating handle, and transmit motion of the actuating handle to the first and second filter plates. Movement of the actuating handle thereby causes the filter plates to move relative to the longitudinally extensive handle. A lock is also provided for selectively locking the actuating handle to the longitudinally extensive handle and preventing motion therebetween, which facilitates the securement of a baffle to the tool.
US08048183B2	Vacuum cleaner with a divider An indoor vacuum cleaner comprises a dirty air inlet, a handle, a cyclone separator having an outer wall, a fluid inlet downstream from the dirty air inlet and a fluid outlet, a plate having a cyclone chamber surface and positioned to substantially divide the cyclone separator into a cyclone chamber and a dirt collection chamber, each of the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber having an outer wall, the outer wall of each of the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber having an outer perimeter, the dirt collection chamber having a cyclone chamber end spaced from a dirt collection floor, a passage extending between the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber, the passage configured such that separated dirt travels at least outwardly as the dirt travels through the passage and, an air flow motor.
US08048180B2	Dual cyclone dust-collecting apparatus vacuum cleaner A dual cyclone dust-collecting apparatus of a vacuum cleaner is disclosed. The dust-collecting apparatus includes an air inlet through which an external air is drawn in, two cyclone chambers into which the external air drawn in through the air inlet air is drawn in, the two cyclone chamber being disposed in parallel, at least one dust-collecting chamber divided in parallel with respect to the two cyclone chambers, and two air outlets through which the external air from the two cyclone chambers is discharged. The air inlet is formed between the two cyclone chambers at a lower part of a cyclone body and the two air outlets are formed in bottom surfaces of the two cyclone chambers, respectively, so that the external air is drawn in through lower parts of one sides of the two cyclone chambers and then discharged through the bottom surfaces of the two cyclone chambers.
US08048174B2	Theft prevention system A theft prevention system capable of preventing theft of a target object by disabling the authorized key of the target object in the case where the authorized key has been stolen. When the authorized key is lost, a mobile telephone instructs a vehicle control device to set a warning mode. On receipt of this warning mode instruction, the vehicle control device sets warning mode, generates an electronic key, and transmits the generated electronic key to the mobile telephone, which receives and stores the electronic key. Once the warning mode is set in the vehicle, locking and unlocking are only possible using the electronic key. If the authorized key is found, the mobile telephone instructs the vehicle control device to set the normal mode. Upon receipt of this normal mode instruction, the vehicle control device sets the normal mode in the vehicle.
US08048173B2	Prosthetic foot A prosthetic foot comprises a ground engaging bottom resilient member, a resilient heel member, and a resilient toe member that collectively circumscribe an open volumetric space. The members resilient compress to absorb compressive force throughout the entire stride of an individual utilizing the foot.
US08048169B2	Pyloric valve obstructing devices and methods Methods, devices and systems facilitate intermittent and/or partial obstruction of a pyloric valve. Devices generally include a support portion for preventing the device from passing through the pyloric valve and a tissue engagement portion for contacting tissue adjacent the pyloric valve to obstruct the valve. Some embodiments also include a positioning member extending from the tissue engagement portion for helping position the device for obstructing the valve. A retaining member may optionally be included on the distal end of the positioning member for further maintaining a position of the device in the stomach. Some embodiments are deliverable into the stomach through the esophagus, either by swallowing or through a delivery tube or catheter. Some embodiments are fully reversible. Some embodiments self-expand within the stomach, while others are inflated or otherwise expanded.
US08048168B2	Partially soluble implantable or insertable medical devices An elongate medical device configured for at least partial implantation or insertion into a subject. The medical device has at least one surface that contains one or more depressions, which are at least partially filled with a soluble material. Also described methods of making such devices.
US08048167B2	Orthopaedic implant kit, orthopaedic surgery kit and associated method A kit for use in performing revision surgery on a cavity in a canal of extending from a resected plane a long bone is provided. The kit includes a canal component fitted to the cavity. The canal component includes a canal portion having first and second ends. The canal component further includes a sleeve portion having an external periphery and an internal periphery defining an internal cavity. The kit also includes a first joint component having a body portion and a connection portion. The connection portion is fitted into the sleeve portion. A connection portion of a second joint component also may be fitted into the sleeve portion so that the external periphery of the connection portion of the first joint component is spaced inwardly from the external periphery of the sleeve portion of the canal component when the first joint component is fixedly connected to the canal.
US08048164B2	Ankle replacement system A total ankle replacement system, novel surgical method for total ankle replacement, and novel surgical tools for performing the surgical method are described. The total ankle replacement system includes the calcaneus in fixation of a lower prosthesis body, thereby significantly increasing the amount of bone available for fixation of the lower prosthesis body and allowing the lower prosthesis body to be anchored with screws. The total ankle replacement system further includes a long tibial stem which can also be anchored into the tibia with, for example, screws, nails, anchors, or some other means of attachment. The novel surgical arthroscopic method allows introduction of ankle prostheses into the ankle joint through an exposure in the tibial tubercle. Various novel surgical instruments, such as a telescoping articulating reamer and a talo-calcaneal jig, which facilitate the novel surgical method, are also described.
US08048163B2	Knee arthroplasty prosthesis A knee arthroplasty prosthesis includes a femoral component having multiple pieces with engagement means provided for engaging various pieces of the femoral component to one another following their insertion in the incised area of the femur. A tibial component includes multiple pieces designed for assembly following positioning in the incision. The tibial component includes a Morse taper cavity on one piece of the tibial component and a Morse taper extension on another member of the component for receipt therein.
US08048160B2	Intervertebral disc annulus stent A stent, or device for repair and reconstruction of the spinal disc wall, or annulus fibrosus, after surgical incision or pathologic rupture, which is inserted through an aperture into the subannular space. The stent has radial extensions which are caused or allowed to expand into an expanded configuration to bridge the aperture. The stent thereby occludes the defective region from the inside of the vertebral disc and prevents the migration of nucleus pulposus therethrough, while also providing a scaffold for tissue growth.
US08048154B2	Ophthalmic and otorhinolaryngological device materials Disclosed are soft, high refractive index, acrylic device materials. The materials contain a hydrophilic side-chain macromer for glistening resistance.
US08048151B2	Stent coating for eluting medication A vascular stent comprising a drug-eluting outer layer of a porous sputtered columnar metal having each column capped with a biocompatible carbon-containing material is described. This is done by placing the stent over a close-fitting mandrel and rotating the assembly in a sputter flux. The result is a coating that is evenly distributed over the outward-facing side of the stent's wire mesh while preventing the sputtered columnar coating from reaching the inward facing side where a smooth hemocompatible surface is required. The stent is then removed from the mandrel, exposing all surfaces, and finally coated with a layer of carbon such as amorphous carbon or diamond-like carbon. The carbonaceous coating enhances biocompatibility without preventing elutriation of a therapeutic drug provided in the porosity formed between the columnar structures. The result is a stent that is adapted to both the hemodynamic and the immune response requirements of its vascular environment.
US08048146B2	Endoprosthesis having foot extensions Endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes at least one annular element defined by a first set of strut members interconnected to define apices proximate opposite sides of the annular element. The annular element further includes a foot extension extending between at least one pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. The foot extension has first and second foot portions extending circumferentially from corresponding ends of the circumferentially-adjacent strut members, and are contoured to provide at least two areas of flexure. The first and second foot portions are joined at a toe portion of the foot extension, and define a circumferentially-directed apex between the pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. Preferably, at least one or more additional annular elements, each defined by interconnected strut members, are provided. The annular elements are generally expandable between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration. The annular elements are longitudinally aligned and connected at connection locations with connectors, wherein at least one of the connectors is constructed of a bio-absorbable material.
US08048140B2	Fenestrated intraluminal stent system An intraluminal prosthesis is provided for strengthening a main lumen and a branch lumen that branches from the main lumen. The intraluminal prosthesis can comprise two tubular grafts. The first tubular graft can have a flexible body with a fenestration. The second tubular graft can have a flexible body that is configured for intraluminal coupling to the fenestration of the first tubular graft. The flexible body of the second tubular graft can have an outer dimension that is about equal to an inner dimension of the fenestration of the first tubular graft. The second tubular graft can also have a terminal stent that curves outwardly from a proximal end of the flexible body of the second tubular graft, whereby the terminal stent acts to couple the second tubular graft to the first tubular graft.
US08048139B2	Reversible applicator for an intraluminal endoprosthesis A reversible applicator for an intraluminal endoprosthesis with a pusher, an outer sheath sliding longitudinally relative to this pusher, and an endoprosthesis arranged at it's distal part. A retention element formed by an expandable braid that widens in a bulb shape in the expanded state, integrally joined to the pusher, is arranged longitudinally inside the endoprosthesis that is to be fitted in place. This bulb compresses the proximal part of the endoprosthesis against an inner wall of the sheath in such a way as to allow the endoprosthesis to be retracted inside the sheath.
US08048136B2	Phototherapy device A phototherapy system having a rigid support surface adapted to support a patient without substantial deformation; a light source disposed so as to transmit light through the support surface; and a mask adapted to permit light transmission from the light source through a first portion of the support surface and to limit light transmission from the light source through a second portion of the support surface.
US08048134B2	Active compression to facilitate healing of bones A bone fixation device includes one or more springs and one or more spacers disposed between two orthopedic structures. The orthopedic structures may comprise screws, rods, plates, or any other orthopedic devices configured to engage bone. The spacer may be absorbable or removable, and may serve to constrain the spring in a compressed or stretched state so that, upon absorption or removal of the spacer, the spring may apply tension or compression to surrounding bone. The device may thereby facilitate healing or bone or remodeling of soft tissues.
US08048133B2	Bone anchoring device A bone anchoring device includes a receiving part for receiving a rod, the receiving part has a first bore coaxial with a longitudinal axis and a second bore, and an anchoring element having a first end for insertion into the bone and a second end positionable within a second bore, the anchoring element being movable relative to the receiving part in limited angular range about the longitudinal axis, the angles lying in a single plane. The bone anchoring device further includes a fixation element cooperating with the receiving part to lock the anchoring element relative to the receiving part. The anchoring element is pivotable relative to the receiving part around one rotational axis transverse to the longitudinal axis.
US08048132B2	Spine fixation device A spine fixation device is provided. The spine fixation device includes a bone screw, a fixation carrier, and a first locking member. The fixation carrier is rotatably coupled to a fixation unit of the bone screw. The first locking member conjugates the fixation carrier and the bone screw together. A screw unit of the bone screw is implanted into a vertebra. As the fixation carrier is rotatably coupled to the bone screw, the bone screw remains fastened to the vertebra while the fixation carrier is rotated. Through rotational adjustment of the fixation carrier, U-shaped openings of the fixation carrier are adjustable in direction. Thus, the disposition angle of a rod disposed in the U-shaped openings is easily adjustable by rotating the fixation carrier. As a result, the rod can fit an angle of the spine while surgical complexity is reduced.
US08048131B2	Polyaxial locking screw plate assembly A bone fixation screw includes a threaded screw shank and a screw head having upper and lower ends. The screw head lower end is secured to a proximal end of said screw shank. The screw head has substantially frustospherical shaped side surfaces and is split into segments at one of the ends. The head is radially expandable at the one end. An expansion screw is centrally received in the screw head. An interface between the expansion screw and the screw head forms a cam mechanism for expanding the screw head upon axial rotation of the expansion screw.
US08048125B2	Versatile offset polyaxial connector and method for dynamic stabilization of the spine A versatile offset connector for connecting components of a dynamic stabilization system which supports the spine while providing for the preservation of spinal motion. Alternative embodiments can be used for spine fusion. Embodiments of the dynamic stabilization system have an anchor system, a deflection system, a vertical rod system and a connection system. The anchor system anchors the construct to the spinal anatomy. The deflection system provides dynamic stabilization while reducing the stress exerted upon the bone anchors and spinal anatomy. The connection system includes coaxial connectors and offset connectors which adjustably connect the deflection system, vertical rod system and anchor system allowing for appropriate, efficient and convenient placement of the anchor system relative to the spine.
US08048123B2	Spine implant with a deflection rod system and connecting linkages and method A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes a deflection rod system implant. The system is modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.
US08048121B2	Spine implant with a defelction rod system anchored to a bone anchor and method A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes a deflection rod system implant. The system is modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.
US08048120B1	System and method for segmentally modular spinal plating A modular implant for stabilizing the relative motion of spinal vertebrae comprises at least two pairs of plates which connect to two adjacent spinous processes, a spacer configured to be positioned between the spinous processes, and a fastener which pivotably connects to the plates and the spacer. The spacer is interchangeable and may comprise a variety of materials, each providing a different level of elasticity to the spinous processes. Relative motion between vertebrae can also be controlled by varying the surface configuration of the plates and by varying threading of the fastener. Several implants may be linked to provide stabilization across multiple vertebral levels, and the relative motion provided at each vertebral level may differ. A method for revising the implant is provided which comprises accessing the implant and replacing the spacer.
US08048119B2	Apparatus for insertion between anatomical structures and a procedure utilizing same A surgical procedure and apparatus according to which force is applied to a member to compress the member, and the member is retained in its compressed state while it is inserted between two anatomical structures. The member is then allowed to move from its compressed state towards its original state and into engagement with the structures.
US08048099B2	Surgical obturator To enable puncture of a body wall with a greater degree of sensitivity with a surgical obturator for puncturing the body wall having a knife, the cutting edge of which extends outwards from a tip of the obturator in the direction of various sides and backwards in relation to the tip, and which is orientated throughout its entire length parallel to the puncturing direction, so that the cutting edge points in the puncturing direction, it is proposed that the cutting edge be of helical line-shaped configuration.
US08048098B2	Lancing device for one skin puncture A lancing device comprises a main housing, a movable housing, and a damping ring. The main housing forming an inner aperture that encloses a portion of a lancet assembly. The lancet assembly has a lancet body, a lancet-plunger housing, and a lance. The lancet assembly is adapted to move between a resting position, a cocking position, and a puncture position. The movable housing is adjacent to the main housing. The moveable housing is adapted to move from a resting position to a cocking position. The moveable housing is adapted to connect to the lancet assembly. The damping ring is adapted to engage the lancet assembly as the lancet assembly moves from the puncture position back towards the resting position to reduce movement of the lancet assembly back towards the puncture position.
US08048094B2	Simultaneous proportional control of surgical parameters in a microsurgical system A microsurgical system, and a foot controller for the improved operation of a microsurgical system, are disclosed. A surgeon may use the foot controller to simultaneously control multiple surgical parameters based upon movement of a foot pedal of the foot controller in a single plane of motion.
US08048093B2	Textured balloons A cutting balloon for use in PTCA and PTA procedures and methods for manufacturing cutting balloons are disclosed. One or more surfaces of the cutting balloon are formed with a non-smooth surface texture to improve adhesion between cutting blades and the inflatable balloon, to improve traction between the cutting balloon and the arterial wall, or to prevent inadvertent balloon perforation by a cutting blade. Textures, which can include a knurling texture and a nodular texture can be formed on the inflatable balloon surface directly using laser ablation. Alternatively, the texture can be formed on a mold surface used to mold the inflatable balloon from a parison. Mold surfaces can be textured using a laser photolithography process, sandblasting or a high-speed tool such as a diamond saw.
US08048092B2	Articulating suturing device and method Devices, systems, and methods for suturing of body lumens allow the suturing of vascular puncture sites located at the distal end of a percutaneous tissue tract. An elongated articulated foot is inserted through a penetration and actuated extend the foot carrying suturing attachment cuffs. Needles are advanced from the shaft through the vessel wall outside of the penetration and into engagement with the needle cuffs after the foot has been drawn proximally up against the endothelial surface of the blood vessel. The cuffs lockingly engage the needles and can be withdrawn along the needle paths and through the tissue tract to form a loop of suture across the puncture. The articulating foot may be realigned with the shaft and withdrawn proximally through the tissue tract without dilating the tissue tract.
US08048090B2	System and method for harvesting and implanting hair using image-generated topological skin models Systems and methods are provided for orienting a hair harvesting tool relative to a follicular unit to be harvested. Further, systems and methods of implanting follicular units are provided, which are based on the orientation of the existing follicular units or based on pre-determined insertion angle. The provided systems and methods use image processing and image-generated topological skill models. In some embodiments surface fit is performed using, for example, a planar fit, quadric fit, cubic fit, mesh fit and parametric fit.
US08048086B2	Methods and devices for conduit occlusion The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of compositions for occluding or of means for opening conduits. The implantable occlusive material may be delivered pre-formed or in situ cured and, may be a resorbable material that supports tissue ingrowth that eventually replaces the material leaving little or no original material in place. The delivery system is positioned to allow for placement of the occlusive material into the body conduit. Use of delivery systems, methods and devices for re-opening an occluded body conduit are also included.
US08048085B2	Devices and methods for storing, loading, and delivering an intraocular lens A cartridge for delivering an intraocular lens into the eye of a subject that comprises a body disposed along a longitudinal axis having a distal end and a proximal end, and a tapered lumen disposed along the longitudinal axis having an aperture at the distal end of the body. The aperture and at least a portion of the tapered lumen each consist of an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portions of the aperture and lumen each have a first width and a cross-section that is generally arcuate. The lower portions of the aperture and lumen each have a cross-section that is generally horizontally disposed and have a second width that is greater than the first width of the aperture and lumen. The cartridge may be loaded with an intraocular lens using a packaging system. The intraocular lens may be placed into the eye of a subject using a corresponding inserter having a pushrod with a saddle disposed at the tip thereof. The intraocular lens is preferably draped over the saddle during insertion.
US08048082B1	Non-invasive femoral distractor for use in knee surgery A femoral distractor includes a top post for positioning under a patient's knee and a bottom pin for fixed attachment to a hospital bed rail. A vertical rod extends between the top post and horizontal bottom pin to move the knee joint in the vertical direction upon operation of a trigger assembly.
US08048077B2	Sternum closure device In a sternum closure device for securing two sternum parts to be connected to one another, comprising an inner contact element to abut the inner face of the sternum, at least one clamping element secured thereto and projecting transversely therefrom, and comprising an outer contact element for abutment on the outer side of the sternum and which can be clamped by means of the clamping element guided through the intermediate space between the sternum parts against the inner contact element, in order to reduce the obstruction by the sternum closure device in the event of a renewed separation of the sternum parts, it is proposed that the inner contact element consists at least partially of a biocompatible plastics material.
US08048076B2	Method for installation of anterior cervical plate system having vertebral body engaging anchors and connecting plate An anterior cervical plating system includes vertebral body engaging anchors coupled to a connecting plate in moveable relationship to vary the spacing between the anchoring points of the plating system to the vertebral bodies and to allow and/or cause intersegmental compression of vertebral bodies. The plating system includes instrumentation and method for installation thereof. The plating system is capable of both passive and active dynamization and the ability to produce the former from the latter.
US08048072B2	Medical device for tissue ablation A medical device for ablating tissues within a heart chamber comprising a guiding member intended to be introduced in the oesophagus of the patient and an ablating member comprising an ablation electrode mounted at the distal end or tip of catheter. Both the head of the guiding member and the tip of the ablating member are magnetised and can enter into magnetic coupling when their distal ends are brought in close contact. Once the magnetic coupling is achieved, the tip of the ablating member is guided by moving the guiding member. The guiding member can include sensors enabling to monitor physiological parameters during the intervention.
US08048071B2	Method for creating a channel through a foreign material A method for creating a channel through a foreign material located in a body of a patient, the foreign material defining a material first surface and a substantially opposed material second surface, the channel extending through the foreign material between the material first and second surfaces, the method using an apparatus including a substantially elongated member defining a proximal end region and a substantially longitudinally opposed distal end region, the apparatus including an electrode located about the distal end region, the method comprising: introducing the distal end region into the body of the patient; positioning the electrode substantially adjacent to the material first surface; energizing the electrode with a radiofrequency current; and using the electrode energized with the radiofrequency current to deliver energy into the foreign material to create the channel.
US08048069B2	User interface for ablation therapy The disclosure describes a user interface that may be used to control ablation therapy and monitor ablation therapy progress in systems that utilize wet electrode ablation techniques. The user interface presents a virtual electrode depth icon to a user that indicates the size of a lesion that may be created with the selected virtual electrode depth. The virtual electrode depth may be changed by the user according to the ablation therapy most appropriate for a patient, and the user may interact with the user interface to define the virtual electrode depth. In this manner, the user interface may be a touchscreen or other input device such as a mouse, pointing device, or keyboard. The user interface may also provide a thermometer icon that represents a patient temperature, a timer icon that represents a remaining time for therapy, and other representations of therapy progress.
US08048067B2	Tissue ablation with irreversible electroporation A new method for the ablation of undesirable tissue such as cells of a cancerous or non-cancerous tumor is disclosed. It involves the placement of electrodes into or near the vicinity of the undesirable tissue through the application of electrical pulses causing irreversible electroporation of the cells throughout the entire area of the undesirable tissue. The electric pulses irreversibly permeate the cell membranes, thereby invoking cell death. The irreversibly permeabilized cells are left in situ and are removed by the body immune system. The amount of tissue ablation achievable through the use of irreversible electroporation without inducing thermal damage is considerable.
US08048065B2	Method and apparatus for eye position registering and tracking The invention refers to A system (10) for registering and tracking the position of a person's eye, in particular for refractive ophthalmic surgery. According to the invention, the system is designed such that eye images containing at least the iris and the pupil of the eye are made at a first wavelength of light and that eye images containing scleral blood vessels are made at a different second wavelength of light. The invention furthermore refers to a corresponding method for registering and tracking the position of a person's eye.
US08048061B2	Tapered fitting for an introducer coupled to a hemostatic valve An adapter for an introducer comprises a medical device having a tubular port on a proximal end such as a splittable hemostatic valve. A tubular fitting is provided on a proximal end of the introducer. An elastomeric member is disposed between the port of the medical device and the tubular fitting of the introducer for providing a fluid tight and mechanically secure connection therebetween. The introducer and valve are manually connectable and reconnectable with each other while maintaining the fluid tight connection between them. A side port may communicate with the hemostatic valve, the side port having a controllable valve ending. In the preferred embodiment the introducer comprises a splittable introducer. In the illustrated embodiment the elastomeric member provides a slip fit between the medical device and the tubular fitting of the introducer. A tab extends from the tubular fitting of the introducer to facilitate manual manipulation of the tubular fitting. In the preferred embodiment, the introducer is torqueable and the tab is used to rotate the introducer.
US08048058B2	Catheter tip A tip for attachment, in use, to the distal end of a catheter for insertion into a body lumen. The tip comprises an attachment region. The attachment region is formed from a material selected to have at least one characteristic having a first parameter of a predetermined value to enable attachment of the tip in use. There is also a second region, connected to the attachment region. The second region is formed from a material selected to have the at least one characteristic defined by a second parameter value, the second parameter value being lower than the first parameter value.
US08048055B2	Clamp assembly for displacing fluid from portions of fluid containers Clamps and methods are disclosed for clamping portions of fluid containers and displacing fluid from portions of fluid containers. In one embodiment, a clamp has a first jaw having a photopermeable main body portion and a second jaw. The first and second jaws are operatively associated so that at least one jaw, or both jaws, may be moved between clamped and released positions. The clamp is sized to receive a portion of a fluid container and displace fluid in the fluid container from a clamped region of the fluid container when the first and/or second jaw(s) are in the clamped position. The photopermeable main body portion(s) of the first and/or second jaw(s) allow some light to reach the clamped region of the fluid container during photoradiation to inactivate pathogens in the fluid. Various clamp embodiments and assemblies having lock members and interlocks are also disclosed herein.
US08048051B2	Refastenable absorbent article and a method of applying thereof Absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, incontinent briefs, diaper holders, training pants and the like, having elastomeric ear panels and a fastening system that provides the user with different options as to how the absorbent article may be fitted to and removed from the wearer. The absorbent articles allow the wearer to choose between conventional and pull-on diaper configurations, or combinations thereof, and properly and comfortably fit a large range of wearer sizes. Further, the absorbent articles can be pulled on and/or off as a pant. This feature is provided by the ear panels which maintain sufficient tension to hold the diaper on the wearer throughout the period of use without harming the wearer's skin, while providing enough stretch to allow the diaper to be pulled up or down over the wearer's hips. The fastening system is refastenable for convenience yet strong enough to maintain the diaper in a fastened configuration without becoming detached if the diaper is pulled on or off the wearer.
US08048049B2	Sanitary napkin A sanitary napkin includes a napkin body having a liquid-absorbent layer for absorbing and retaining liquid and a projection projecting from a body surface of the napkin body. The projection is secured at laterally spaced base ends to the body surface of the napkin body. A distance between the base ends varies longitudinally of the projection. A height of the projection from the body surface of the napkin body decreases with increasing the distance between the base ends.
US08048048B2	Method and system for measuring urinary flow rate A method and system for measuring a urinary flow rate minimizes impact noise caused by urine to measure the urinary flow rate using a plurality of load cells when prostatic hypertrophy is diagnosed. The method includes measuring an amount of urine collected into a container using a plurality of load cells, extracting and averaging urinary flow rate signals from the measured results, and removing the impact noise from the urinary flow rate signals, converting the urinary flow rate signals into digital signals through an A/D converting circuit, and outputting the digital signals using a personal computer or a microprocessor analyzer which is interfaced with the A/D converting circuit.
US08048045B2	Blood leakage detection device A blood leakage detection device for attachment to the skin of a patient at a wound such as one caused by insertion a cannula into a vein or artery comprises a support of a flexible material having a top side and an opposite bottom side, a zone of adhesive for attachment to the skin on the bottom side of the support extending along its periphery except for a sector of from about 5° to about 150°, a blood absorbent patch disposed on the support and extending inwardly of the adhesive zone and, optionally, in the sector, and a blood detection probe comprising a probe head disposed at or near the center of the support in the absorbent patch or abutting the bottom side thereof. A blood transport element can be disposed between the support and the absorbent patch.
US08048044B2	Drug delivery system A drug delivery system including a chamber, which is configured for enclosing or covering at least a surface of a patient, a source of a drug, and a pressure source, which selectively pressurizes the chamber. In addition, the system includes a controller for controlling the transfer of the drug to the chamber wherein the drug is administered to the surface of the patient under pressure.
US08048039B2	Surgical fluid transfer apparatus A surgical fluid transfer apparatus for passage of fluids includes a hub defining a longitudinal axis and having an internal chamber, an elongated member extending from the hub and a closure valve disposed within the internal chamber. The closure valve is adapted for movement between a first position substantially sealing the internal chamber to prevent passage of fluids and a second position establishing a fluid passage within the hub to permit passage of fluids therethrough. The closure valve includes a valve housing and a seal member. The seal member has an open condition establishing an internal passage different than the fluid passage to permit passage of an access instrument through the closure valve and a closed condition in the absence of the access instrument. The inner wall portions of the valve housing cooperate with the seal member to permit the seal member to assume the closed condition thereof.
US08048038B2	Valve connector for medical lines A valve connector for medical infusion lines including an external tubular body with an inlet end and an outlet end, an internal hollow spike and an intermediate sealing member including a head with pre-slit and an elastic hollow element formed with fluid-tight members in contact with the hollow spike and with an elastic thrust means, which tends to maintain the elastic head in a closed condition. The elastic thrust means comprises a base part joined to the elastic hollow element of the sealing member through a generally transverse annular wall, which, during axial displacement of the elastic head from the closed condition to the open condition, bends within an annular chamber defined between the base part and a portion with conical surface of the hollow spike.
US08048037B2	Injection device comprising several coupling mechanisms An injection device including a drive unit, a delivery unit, a dosing unit, a trigger for triggering an injection, a first coupling mechanism between the drive unit and the delivery unit, and a second coupling mechanism between the dosing unit and the drive unit, wherein the drive unit is tensioned by a rotation of the dosing unit and when the drive unit is tensioned the first coupling mechanism is disengaged and the second coupling mechanism is engaged, and wherein when an injection is triggered first the first coupling mechanism is engaged and then the second coupling mechanism is disengaged. In some embodiments, the device may include a third coupling mechanism which only releases the delivery unit after the engagement and disengagement which follow a triggering.
US08048035B2	Automatic injector with needle cover An auto-injector automatically dispenses a predetermined dose of medicament upon activation. The auto-injector includes a needle cover operative to engage an injection site and activate the injector. The needle cover is configured to move from a locked retracted position prior to a medicament dispensing operation to a locked extended position after the medicament dispensing operation. The non-removable needle cover prevents contact with the needle both before and after the medicament dispensing operation.
US08048029B2	Injector apparatus The present invention provides an injector apparatus suitable for use with an automatic injection device. The injector apparatus includes a cylindrical housing having a deflectable member and a removable guard. The deflectable member releasably holds a syringe tube assembly in the axial direction when the apparatus is in the initial position. Then, after use, the deflectable member provides a tamper evidence means for indicating whether or not the injector apparatus was previously used or tampered with.
US08048024B2	Steering mechanism A hand-holdable steering mechanism is used as part of a medical device such as a catheter or an endoscope to allow movement of a steerable distal portion of the catheter or endoscope. The mechanism can include a housing, a first actuator, and a second actuator. The first actuator is configured to move the steerable portion along a first plane when the first actuator is moved between first and second positions. The second actuator is configured to move the steerable portion along a second plane different than the first plane when the second actuator is moved between first and second positions.
US08048019B2	Multiple nozzle transdermal drug delivery system A transdermal drug delivery system (100) for providing controlled doses of a drug through the skin of a human or other animal is disclosed. In one embodiment, the transdermal drug delivery system (100) includes a substrate (110) designed to adhere to skin and a transdermal injector array (140) coupled to the substrate (110). The transdermal array (140) has one or more transdermal injectors (210, 220, 230) embedded within including a first transdermal injector (210) configured to administer or provide a first substance to the skin at a speed great enough to produce an appreciable breach in the surface of the skin.
US08048016B2	Arterio-venous shunt devices A long-term implantable arterio-venous shunt device is provided that can be used as a therapeutic method. The shunt device is implanted between an artery and a vein, preferably between the aorta and the inferior vena cava. The shunt device decreases the systemic vascular resistance and allows a blood flow rate through the shunt device of at least 5 ml/min after the implantation. The blood flow rate could be controlled either via an open loop or a closed loop control means. The shunt device could also be a self-adjustable shunt device to self-adjust its structure to control the blood flow rate through its lumen. Based on the effects of the shunt device to the respiratory, cardiac and circulatory system, the implantable shunt device could be beneficial as a therapy to patients with problems or conditions related to these systems.
US08048011B2	Ultrasonic-treatment handpiece with heat/vibration blocking structure and ultrasonic treatment apparatus using the handpiece An ultrasonic handpiece for use in operations comprises an oscillation source and a casing unit. The oscillation source has an ultrasonic transducer formed by plural piezoelectric layers layered one on another to form a substantially rod shape having both ends in an axial direction. A radially expanded flange is attached one end of the ultrasonic transducer. The casing unit has a cylindrical casing formed to contain the oscillation source therein, formed to have a blocking layer formed to have a predetermined length in, the axial direction, and positioned to cover both the flange and at least a first piezoelectric layer of the ultrasonic transducer in the axial direction. The casing unit also has a holder holding the oscillation source within the casing using the flange. The blocking layer is in charge of blocking (reducing or preventing) vibration and heat from being transmitted to the outer surface of the casing.
US08048009B2	Clamping device for therapeutic applications A clamping device for therapeutic applications can comprise an extended handle, a powered linear actuator mounted to the extended handle, and a C-shaped clamp attached to the extended handle and including a stationary jaw. The actuator can be configured to provide reversible axial movement of a movable member. The clamping device can further include a pair of applicators attached to the stationary jaw and to the movable member, respectively. The applicators can be made of an hypoallergenic material configured not to cause an adverse reaction when applied to a human skin. The clamping device can further include a switch configured to control the linear actuator. The linear actuator can be configured, responsive to switching the switch, to axially move the second applicator towards and away from the first applicator, thus applying pressure to a targeted body area.
US08048006B2	Ultrasound therapy A method of treating a peripheral neuropathy, peripheral neurodegenerative disease, or peripheral nerve trauma is disclosed. The method includes the step of applying an ultrasound signal to an anatomical location on a patient.
US08048005B2	Hospital bed control apparatus The present invention provides a hospital bed including a force sensor or scale apparatus configured to detect the weight of a patient.
US08048001B2	Method and apparatus for detecting atrial filling pressure A cardiac rhythm management system provides for ambulatory monitoring of hemodynamic performance based on quantitative measurements of heart sound related parameters for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Monitoring of such heart sound related parameters allows the cardiac rhythm management system to determine a need for delivering a therapy and/or therapy parameter adjustments based on conditions of a heart. This monitoring also allows a physician to observe or assess the hemodynamic performance for diagnosing and making therapeutic decisions. Because the conditions of the heart may fluctuate and may deteriorate significantly between physician visits, the ambulatory monitoring, performed on a continuous or periodic basis, ensures a prompt response by the cardiac rhythm management system that may save a life, prevent hospitalization, or prevent further deterioration of the heart.
US08047997B2	Non-invasive blood pressure monitor apparatus and system A non-invasive blood pressure monitoring system is disclosed herein. The non-invasive blood pressure monitoring system includes a pressure cuff comprising a resistive portion and a conductive portion aligned with the resistive portion. The non-invasive blood pressure monitoring system also includes a controller operatively connected to the pressure cuff. The controller is adapted to estimate the circumference of the pressure cuff based on the position of the conductive portion relative to the resistive portion.
US08047996B2	System and method for reducing angular geometric distortion in an imaging device A system and method are provided for significantly reducing or substantially eliminating angular geometric distortions in devices designed for imaging and/or inspection of an interior portion or surface of a cavity. A series of processing steps or methods may be employed to eliminate Non-Uniform Rotational Distortion (NURD) in such devices, for example, unidirectional and bi-directional intravascular ultrasonic (IVUS) imaging systems. The system may include a processor and an electronic module which control operation of a transducer assembly provided at a distal end of a catheter assembly. The system invokes a first processing step or method to collect and store raw angle and line data, as well as one or more of second and third processing steps or methods which adjust for NURD experienced during backlash of a bi-directional imaging system and a fourth processing step or method which performs a line-to-line correlation function.
US08047991B2	Automatic identification of orientation in medical diagnostic ultrasound Orientation is automatically identified in medical diagnostic ultrasound image. An area or volume based process, such as region shrinking or using locations associated with flow or tissue structure, determines a direction or orientation. Real-time imaging in B-mode and/or flow mode may be enhanced based on the direction or orientation.
US08047990B2	Collagen density and structural change measurement and mapping in tissue A method and system for two and three dimensional mapping of tissue density and/or structural changes from image data and/or spatial reflected or transmitted signal maps, and correlating the maps to changes in collagen density. The method and system includes the steps of: receiving an image or spatial maps of acoustic-derived RF signal data from tissue comprised of multiple pixels, segregating the image into groups of pixels, each group of pixels having characteristics within a defined class, establishing a baseline set of classes corresponding to initial conditions of the imaged/mapped tissue, measuring a differential in the set of classes for a group of pixels, the differential corresponding to a change in pixel values for the group of pixels, correlating said measured differential to a density change for the tissue corresponding to the group of pixels, and overlaying an indication of collagen density over the tissue image or mapped signal responses correlated with thermal dose indicating a change in collagen density for the tissue.
US08047988B2	Avatar refrigerator The present invention relates to a refrigerator for providing a user with a variety of information using an avatar. The present invention comprises a storage device for storing avatar data including a figure and/or a motion of the avatar, a display device provided on an outer surface of the refrigerator to display the avatar, a control device for selecting the avatar to be displayed on the display device among the avatar data stored in the storage device and causing the display device to display the avatar, and an input device for receiving a command or information input from the outside. According to the present invention so configured, there is an advantage in that the display device can display a variety of avatars stored in the storage device in conformance with a condition.
US08047985B2	Compact confocal endoscope and endomicroscope method and apparatus The present invention provides a confocal endoscope, microscope or endomicroscope including a light source of coherent light for illuminating a sample, a beam splitter and light receiving means, wherein an incident beam of light from the light source is directed onto the beam splitter and hence onto the sample, and light returning from the sample and incident on the beam splitter is deviated or displaced by the beam splitter by a small angle or distance relative to the incident beam, and received by the light receiving means located to receive the returning light and near the light source. The invention also a method for performing confocal endoscopy or microscopy including illuminating a sample by means of an incident or excitatory beam of coherent light, and deviating or displacing light returning from the sample by a small angle or distance relative to the incident beam.
US08047980B2	Method of treating urinary incontinence A method for treating urinary incontinence includes the steps of inserting into the woman's vagina a first disposable device, removing the first disposable device, and inserting a second disposable device substantially identical to the first disposable device. The disposable devices have a working portion with opposed faces to provide support to an associated urinary system and, optionally, an anchoring portion to maintain the disposable device in place during use. The working portion also has. The working portion also has an insertion equivalent diameter ranging from about 10 to about 25 mm and a use equivalent diameter ranging from about 25 to about 35 mm under an expansion pressure of about 20 to about 150 cm H2O.
US08047978B1	High throughput chemical munitions treatment system A new High-Throughput Explosive Destruction System is disclosed. The new system is comprised of two side-by-side detonation containment vessels each comprising first and second halves that feed into a single agent treatment vessel. Both detonation containment vessels further comprise a surrounding ventilation facility. Moreover, the detonation containment vessels are designed to separate into two half-shells, wherein one shell can be moved axially away from the fixed, second half for ease of access and loading. The vessels are closed by means of a surrounding, clam-shell type locking seal mechanisms.
US08047977B2	Filter, smoking articles containing the same, filter strands and methods and devices for producing filters and smoking articles of this type The invention relates to a filter (10) for tobacco products with a first terminal filter element (12), a second terminal filter element (14), a middle filter element (16) which is located between first and second terminal filter element and contains a granular filter material, and a casing (20), one part of one of the terminal filter elements (12) being displaceable vis-à-vis the casing (20). The invention furthermore relates to smoking articles with such filters, filter strands with two or more of the filters, and processes and devices for the production of such filters and tobacco products.
US08047976B2	Item handling system with tracking An item handling system includes a vacuum source, a transport element defining a plurality of vacuum openings in fluid communication with the vacuum source to create a securing force on an item proximate to the transport element for holding the item in contact with the transport element, and a drive element for driving the transport element to transport the item. The transport element further defines a plurality of sensor openings arranged in two substantially parallel arrays along a longitudinal direction of the transport element. The system further includes a sensor associated with each array of sensor openings for sensing energy passing through the sensor openings to thereby sense the item on the transport element. Each sensor is disposed at a common longitudinal position relative to the transport element. Sensing the item corresponds to a condition where the sensor associated with each array is blocked.
US08047972B1	Easily adjustable and lockable exercise bar apparatus An adjustable exercise bar comprises a bar (145) and one or more rails (100, 105) upon which one or more bar retainers are constrained to move. The rails are secured to a vertical surface such as a wall or post (110). A plunger assembly (400) contained within the bar retainers is coupled to the bar by a stiff metal band that is attached to the bar. A plunger in each plunger assembly is normally inserted in a hole (115) in the rail or rails, preventing the bar retainer from moving. The plunger assembly is actuated by rotating the front of the bar upward (from the user's perspective). This actuation causes the plunger (405) to be removed from the hole, enabling movement of the bar upward or downward. When the rotational force on the bar is removed, a spring (435) within the plunger assembly returns the bar to its original rotational position and returns the plunger to a hole in the rail. An optional weight (155) secured to the bar retainers by cords (160, 161) acts as a counterbalance to bar movement. An additional static bar (170) is provided to permit the performance of additional exercises.
US08047971B2	Dumbbells with connections for a barbell At least two dumbbells are releasably connected to the axial ends of a barbell. The dumbbells include a dumbbell connector portion positioned axially on a weight of the dumbbell, and the barbell includes a barbell connector portion on the axial ends of the barbell. The dumbbell connector portion engages the barbell connector portion to connect the dumbbell to the barbell. The dumbbell connector portion can be received in a recess of the weight. The user selects two dumbbells of a desired weight and connects the barbell with the dumbbells. The device is then utilized for exercise.
US08047970B2	Weight plate with detachable locking cartridge A weight plate having a detachable locking cartridge by which the weight plate is releasably connected to a lifting element (e.g., a center post) whereby one or more weight plates carried by the lifting element may be lifted by a user. The weight plate also has a plate body with a central bore in which to receive the lifting element. In one embodiment, the detachable locking cartridge is mounted flush against one side (e.g., the bottom) of the weight plate body so as to lie entirely external to the plate body. In an alternate embodiment, the detachable locking cartridge includes a stabilizer extension that is received within a cavity recessed in the one side of the plate body. The detachable locking cartridge includes a manually-accessible toggle lever switch arm that is adapted to rotate within a housing of the cartridge between locked and unlocked positions to thereby control the displacement of a locking pin relative to the lifting element within the central bore of the plate body.
US08047964B2	Methods and systems for lingual movement to manipulate an object An intra-oral system is disclosed for assisting an individual in developing intra-oral muscle control and strength, and for facilitating typing of alphanumeric characters on a virtual keyboard. The system may also be used to enable an individual having limited use of the upper extremities to control an electrical apparatus such as a wheelchair, a bed or a light fixture. The intra-oral system includes a mouthpiece having a plurality of cells embedded therein. The cells are configured to receive pressure applied by the tongue of an individual. Movement of the tongue over and against the cells causes an object to be moved over a display. In one embodiment, the object is moved through an obstacle course or over a simulated track as part of a therapeutic regimen. In another embodiment, the object is moved over alphanumeric characters on a digital keyboard, and selected characters are typed by operation of the mouthpiece. In this manner, textual matter may be produced and stored by the user, and then sent via electronic means using a wired or wireless communication network. In yet another embodiment, a character or icon on the display is selected and activated to manipulate an electrical apparatus. A method for moving an electrical apparatus using a mouthpiece controlled through lingual movement is also provided.
US08047963B2	Vehicle control apparatus Control apparatuses (6, 10) include an ending process element that, when a locked state is established within a reference period after operation of a parking mechanism (5), performs a normal ending process that stops a vehicle drive source (1) and switches to an ignition off position, and when the locked state is not established within the reference period, performs an abnormal ending process that stops the vehicle drive source (1) and switches to an accessory position; and a support process element that, when the parking mechanism (5) is operated, if a vehicle speed increase is detected, performs a support process that prohibits operation of the parking mechanism (5) and extends the reference period.
US08047960B2	Continuously variable transmission and straddle type vehicle A continuously variable transmission reduces slips between a primary sheave and a V-belt when decelerating. A target value setting section sets a control target value for control by a control device. In the target value setting section, a normal mode, a kick down mode set to be in a Low gear range lower than in the normal mode, and a restriction value given in a throttle fully closed state are provided. The control device controls the continuously variable transmission based upon the kick down mode provided in the target value setting section, in response to an operation of a kick down operator. The control device controls a gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission not to vary to a Low gear range lower than the restriction value provided in the target value setting section.
US08047956B2	Bicycle multi-speed hub A multi-speed hub for cantilever mounting to a bicycle frame generally includes a planetary gear mechanism, a hub shaft, a hub shell, a spoke shell, a driver and a driven gear. The hub shell is cantilever-mounted to the bicycle frame and configured to enclose the planetary gear mechanism and the hub shaft. The spoke shell, driver and driven gear are rotatably supported by the hub shell. One end of the hub shaft is indirectly supported by the hub shell and the other end of the hub shaft is fixed to the bicycle frame.
US08047955B2	Two-stage machine tool gearing, in particular spindle gearing A two-stage machine tool transmission, in particular a spindle drive transmission, includes a planetary gearset in which a spindle or a spindle insert can be connected to a drive output of a transmission, which has a first drive output shaft and the second drive output shaft, such that the first drive output shaft is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a drive input shaft and can optionally be connected, via a first shift element, to a sun gear of the planetary gearset. The second drive output shaft is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a carrier of the planetary gearset. A ring gear of the planetary gearset is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to the transmission housing and a second shift element is provided such that a connection between the spindle or a spindle insert and, optionally, the first or the second drive output shaft, is possible.
US08047954B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least ten forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08047953B2	Multi-speed transmission having three planetary gear sets A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes.
US08047952B2	Multi-speed transaxle A front wheel drive transmission is provided having a transmission input member, a transmission output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and a brake arranged within a transmission housing.
US08047950B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least nine forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
US08047946B2	Differential case for vehicle and differential device for vehicle including differential case It is an object of the present invention to provide a differential case for a vehicle and a differential device for a vehicle restricting change and movement of an intermeshing of a pair of side gears and a pair of pinion gears to achieve stable differential restriction force.The differential case or the differential device for the vehicle comprises a case body 50 accommodating a pair of side gears 5R, 5L and a pinion gear 3 or 4 engaging in mesh with the side gears 5R, 5L, and a pinion gear supporter 53 accommodated in said case body 50 and having a pinion gear supporting portion 56 or 57 to install said pinion gear 3 or 4 in recess space 60, 61 of said pinion gear supporter 53 and to support slidably an outer peripheral surface of said pinion gear 3 or 4 for rotation of said pinion gear 3 or 4.
US08047936B2	Electronic throw-and-catch game An electronic catch-and-throw game is disclosed that requires physical skill, logical thought, and advancing complexity in order to challenge players of all skill levels and hold their interest.
US08047935B2	Sporting pipe A rectangular sporting pipe includes a shaft and at least two bulging portions formed on a surface portion of the shaft, the bulging portions extending in a longitudinal direction of the shaft and bulging outwardly.
US08047933B2	Golf ball The present invention is to a golf ball having an equator at latitude 0° and two poles; and an equator region defined by latitudes 0 to 25°, a shoulder region defined by latitudes from more than 25° to less than 65°, and a pole region defined by latitudes 65° to 90°; and a dimple pattern on the surface of the golf ball having an average dimple volume of the equator region Ve, an average dimple volume of the shoulder region, Vs, and an average dimple volume of the pole region, Vp such that the ratio Vs/Ve is less than 0.97 and the ratio Vp/Vs is less than 0.97.
US08047932B2	Golf ball having reduced surface hardness A golf ball comprising a core and at least one cover layer disposed about the core, the core comprising a geometric center and an outer surface, the core further comprising an untreated region extending radially from the geometric center a predetermined distance DUTr and a treated region disposed about the untreated region and extending inward from the outer surface a predetermined depth DTr. The treated region has been exposed to and comprises a fatty acid and/or fatty acid salt composition wherein the treated region comprises a first hardness and the untreated region comprises a second hardness different than the first hardness. Additionally, a golf ball comprising a core and a cover, the core comprising a geometric center and an outer surface, the outer surface comprising a fatty acid and/or fatty acid salt composition, the geometric center having a hardness (Hg) and the outer surface having an extrapolated hardness (HE) and an actual hardness (HOS) wherein HE is derived from a five point extrapolation within three quarters of an outer core diameter and HOS as measured on the curved surface of the core, and the cover has a hardness (HC), wherein HC>HE>Hg>HOS.
US08047930B2	Metal wood club with improved hitting face A hitting face of a golf club head having improved flexural stiffness properties. In one embodiment, the hitting face is made from multiple materials. The main portion of the hitting face is a plate-like face made from a first material having a first density. A dense insert made from a second material having a second density that is greater than the first density is attached directly or indirectly to the plate-like face at or near the geometric center thereof. The dense insert increases the flexural stiffness of in a central zone of the hitting face so that a golf club head that has a larger zone of substantially uniform high initial ball speed. In another embodiment, the hitting face includes an insert that includes main plate and at least one wing extending therefrom. The insert is welded to the golf club head so that the main plate does not deflect separately from the remainder of the hitting face. The geometry of the insert controls the stiffness in the axial directions.
US08047926B2	Fluid chamber inflatable apparatus The present invention is an inflatable apparatus that has a fluid chamber. The inflatable side air chamber surrounds the fluid chamber. The inflatable side air chamber forms a fluid chamber pocket for receiving the fluid chamber. A sidewall of the inflatable side air chamber has retaining walls extending upward from the inflatable side air chamber for retaining children. A fill tube is disposed on the fluid chamber. An optional inflatable ramp adjacent to the fluid chamber leads to a slide for sliding to a slide exit. The ramp may have hand grips formed as straps and footholds may also be formed on the ramp. The retaining walls can be inflatable sidewalls that extend upward from the inflatable side air chamber.
US08047917B2	Method and apparatus for conducting a game of chance A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type game. A result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in another medium. In one example, the result is revealed during multiple game instances of one or more online games. In one example, the online game is a game in which elements are selected, and in response to the selection, a prize is revealed (or not) to the player. In another example, the player is permitted to predict the outcome of a characteristic of the online game, a game-playing computer determines an outcome to be displayed to the player that reflects a result of the game of chance. In one example game format, the player is permitted to predict the most frequently-occurring element in a group of drawn game elements.
US08047916B2	Gaming display flexible belt system and method A gaming apparatus has several primary gaming devices. Each of the primary gaming devices is configured to accept a wager and to generate a bonus qualifying event. A central display device is mounted in association with the primary gaming devices. The central display device has several flexible belt displays having indicia thereon. A controller is in communication with the gaming devices and the central display device. The controller is configured to detect the bonus qualifying event and to position the flexible belt displays such that at least one of the indicia appearing on the flexible belt displays convey a game outcome. A gaming method using the gaming apparatus is also disclosed.
US08047911B2	Gaming system and method of gaming A method of gaming comprises a first step of selecting symbols appearing in a game event. The selected symbols are stored in a symbol store arranged to store a plurality of symbols. The symbol store is arranged such that, once a maximum number of symbols is reached, storage of a further symbol in the symbol store results in the removal of a stored symbol from the symbol store in accordance with a removal rule. A final step involves determining whether the stored symbols meet an award criterion.
US08047910B2	Gaming machines having rhythmic reels A gaming machine and methods for independently controlling the movement of each mechanical reel are disclosed. The gaming machine includes a plurality of mechanical reels each having indicia provided on an outer surface of each of the reels. A game controller generates a game outcome and determines a spin duration for each of the plurality of reels. One or more stepper motors are operatively coupled to the mechanical reels to independently spin each reel. A reel control unit is in communication with one or more stepper motors and the game controller. The reel control unit determines an appropriate spin profile for each reel based upon the game outcome and the spin duration to cause the reels to spin and stop in a rhythmic manner.
US08047907B2	Method and apparatus for conducting a game of chance using pull-tab tickets A system and method are provided for playing a game of chance. The game of chance may include, for example, a lottery-type game using a pull-tab ticket. A result of the game of chance is revealed to a player in another medium. In one example, the result is revealed during multiple game instances of one or more online games.
US08047905B2	Method, arrangement and apparatus for facilitating environmental climate control of a building structure A building structure includes means to utilize solar radiation to heat the building structure during relatively cold ambient environmental conditions and to cool the building structure during relatively hot ambient environmental conditions. The building structure includes chambered wall and floor constructions having integral heat sink masses. These integral heat sink masses provide for radiation of heat when air temperature in an interior space of the building structure is below a temperature of the heat sink masses and for absorption of heat when the air temperature in the interior space of the building structure is above a temperature of the heat sink masses. A flow of thermally treated air to the heat sink masses serves to regulate the temperature of the heat sink masses.
US08047902B2	Device for massaging products A device for treating products, in particular massaging meat products, comprises at least one treatment section with a space for receiving the products. The space comprises a treatment device for treating the products. A discharge device is provided for discharging the products from the space of the treatment section. The discharge device can be brought into an active and an inactive operating state with the aid of an actuating device.
US08047892B1	Woman's undergarment to remedy chest wrinkles An undergarment for wearing about the torso of a woman. The undergarment includes a central spacer of elongate form which is sized to reside between the breasts and keep them spaced from each other, particularly when the woman is lying down. A lower band girds the torso of the woman and supports a lower end of the central spacer. Shoulder straps extend from the upper end of the central spacer which are of adjustable length to help keep the central spacer firmly in position against the skin of the woman between the breasts. A central pad can also be provided, such as by being removably attachable, over a cleavage area between and above the breasts to press directly against the skin to prevent wrinkle formation and to eliminate wrinkles from the chest of the woman.
US08047891B1	Nikita bra A brassiere for women who need or desire breast enhancement manufactured with internal air bags or the like which can provide apparent enhancement without the need for surgery, or for use after surgical loss of breast tissue. The brassiere can be used either by women who have had surgical removal of a breast or by women who desire breast enlargement.
US08047889B2	Block set and managing method thereof A block set is provided, which comprises at least two blocks, and a container box for storing the two blocks. Each of the two blocks includes a wireless chip. The wireless chip has a memory which stores an identification number. The container box includes a reader for obtaining information of the wireless chip, an interface portion for communicating with a server via the Internet the information of the wireless chip and for receiving a manual from the server via the Internet, a memory for storing the manual, and a display portion for displaying the manual.
US08047885B2	Boat propulsion unit A boat propulsion unit has a construction that prevents a structure near a drive shaft from becoming complicated and increased in size. The boat propulsion unit preferably in the form of an outboard motor includes a front propeller that is rotated together with a front propeller drive shaft during both forward travel and reverse travel of the boat, a rear propeller that is rotated together with a rear propeller drive shaft in an opposite direction of the front propeller during both of the forward travel and the reverse travel of the boat, and a forward-reverse drive that is arranged on an axis of the front propeller drive shaft and the rear propeller drive shaft, and that can be switched between a direction in which the front propeller drive shaft and the rear propeller drive shaft are rotated during the forward travel of the boat and a direction in which the front propeller drive shaft and the rear propeller drive shaft are rotated during the reverse travel of the boat.
US08047884B2	Propulsion system A propulsion system may include a cylindrical support member and a tubular rotatable member rotatably mounted within the support member that may be adapted to permit fluid flow therethrough. The tubular rotatable member may extend past a down stream end of the support member. An exemplary embodiment of a propulsion system may also disclose a vane attached on an interior surface of the tubular member and may include a blade which extends in a direction toward a rotational axis of the rotatable member such that rotation of the tubular member and the vane attached thereon draws fluid into the tubular member to accelerate the fluid flow through the tubular member. Additionally, a nozzle may be attached to the down stream end of the support member and include a primary nozzle and a secondary nozzle within the primary nozzle. The secondary nozzle may be engaged with the primary nozzle by a stator.
US08047883B2	Wire termination mechanisms and methods of use The present disclosure relates to wiring terminations. Wiring terminations can be used in any suitable device such as a wiring device. The wiring termination is configured to selectively receive a distal end of a wire therein. The wire termination mechanism includes at least a first position for receiving the distal end of the wire, and a second position for terminating the distal end of the wire against the respective electrical contact upon an actuation thereof from the first position to the second position.
US08047881B2	Connector base A connector base includes an assembly plate and a plug plate. The assembly plate defines a plurality of assembly holes. The plug plate includes a plurality of plug units, a plurality of plug portions, and a plurality of elastic members. The plug portions are formed on the plug units respectively. The plug portions engage in the assembly holes of the assembly plate. The elastic members connect the two plug units.
US08047879B2	Printed wiring boards and communication connectors having series inductor-capacitor crosstalk compensation circuits that share a common inductor Printed wiring boards for communications connectors are provided that include a mounting substrate having at least first through third input terminals and first through third output terminals. A first conductive path connects the first input terminal to the first output terminal, a second conductive path connects the second input terminal to the second output terminal and a third conductive path connects the third input terminal to the third output terminal. A first inductor and a first capacitor are coupled between the first conductive path and the second conductive path, where the first inductor and the first capacitor are arranged in series to provide a first series inductor-capacitor circuit. A second capacitor is coupled between the third conductive path and the second conductive path through the first inductor to provide a second series inductor-capacitor circuit that shares the inductor of the first series inductor-capacitor circuit. Communications connectors that include such wiring boards or equivalent structures are also provided.
US08047870B2	Coaxial connector for corrugated cable A coaxial cable connector includes an internal corrugated area, an internal clamping member, and a back nut. Axial advancement of the back nut causes at least a portion of the internal clamping member to compress radially inwardly.
US08047867B2	Connecting assembly for connecting electric connector and control box A connecting assembly for an electric cylinder and a control box includes an electric cylinder, an electric control box and a sheathing ring. The electric cylinder includes an actuator and a contractible pipe module perpendicularly connected to an end of the actuator. The electric control box is disposed on an internal side at a right-angled position with respect to the actuator and the contractible pipe module and slidably connected to a side of the actuator. The sheathing ring is sheathed onto a contractible pipe module and slidably connected to a side of the electric control box. The connecting assembly of the invention not only achieves a screwless application, but also provides a quick, simple, convenient and stable assembling process.
US08047866B2	Transmission cable that eliminates negative magnetically inductive impedance A transmission cable assembly is connected between an ignition coil and a spark plug to transmit a high voltage generated by the ignition coil to the spark plug for ignition of a fuel-air mixture. The transmission cable assembly includes a transmission cable and a grounding unit. The transmission cable includes a high-voltage wire for transmission of high voltage and an insulation jacket wrapped around an outside surface of the high-voltage wire. The grounding unit is made of an electrically conductive substance and includes a grounding layer and multiple grounding wires. The grounding layer completely covers and tightly engages the insulation jacket. The grounding wires each have an end connected to an inside surface of the grounding layer.
US08047864B1	Electrical connector An electrical connector is provided, in which each conductive terminal is respectively provided with a first connecting portion at left and right sides of a contact pin of a chip module. A first contact arm and a second contact arm respectively extend upwards from each of the paired first connecting portions, the two first contact arms and the two second contact arms are respectively used for conducting the contact pin, and elastically deform in directions substantially perpendicular to a moving direction of the contact pin. The first contact arm and the second contact arm extending from the same first connecting portion are independent of each other.
US08047862B2	Mounting arrangement for an electric supply cable having a connector with a sealing ring and locking means The mounting arrangement is applied to a refrigeration compressor having a shell (1) externally carrying energizing pins (2) and comprises: a connector (10) to be mounted to the shell (1) and having a non-electric conducting base body (11) which houses and retains electric terminals (4) attached to an electric supply cable (3) and which are designed to fit said energizing pins (2), one of the parts of shell (1) and base body (11) of the connector (10) carrying locking means (20) to be engaged to respective locking receiving means (30) provided in the other part, when the connector (11) is mounted to the shell (1); and an elastic sealing means (40) carried by one of the parts of shell (1) and connector (11) and to be pressed between said parts, around the energizing pins (2), when the connector (11) is mounted to the shell (1).
US08047860B2	Connector engage mechanism An electrical assembly comprises an upper electrical center assembly and a lower mounting bracket lift assembly that is adapted for being secured to a support panel such as a support panel in an automobile. After the lower mounting bracket lift assembly is secured to the support panel, the upper electrical center assembly is attached to the lower mounting bracket lift assembly. The lower mounting bracket lift assembly is then operated to plug wiring harness end connectors in the lower mounting bracket lift assembly into lower sockets of the upper electrical center assembly.
US08047851B1	Bulletin board organizer A wall-mounted storage and organization organizer for notes, memos, calendars, business cards, reminders, keys and the like, comprising a multi-door cabinet is herein disclosed. The organizer has approximate dimensions of twenty-eight (28) inches in height, twenty (20) inches in width, and three (3) inches in depth. The front door is provided with a clear pane under which photographs, calendars and the like can be placed on a second door in a neat manner for all to see without opening the outer door. When additional doors of the organizer are opened, additional organizational spaces are provided. The organizer further provides cork board surfaces and white board surfaces as well as a magnetic tray for holding dry erase markers and an eraser. Such surfaces would allow users to leave themselves or others messages or large notes. The rearmost door provides a mounting means thereto a wall surface and provides a series of varying sized pockets capable of holding small business cards up to a large sheet of paper. Such pockets would be used to organize lists, appointment reminders, additional calendars, photographs and the like. Finally, the rear surface provides a plurality of hooks used to hold keys, ID tags and other similar items.
US08047849B2	Braille display device using electrorheological fluid and manufacturing method thereof Provided are a braille display device using an electrorheological fluid and a method for manufacturing the same. The braille display device includes: a base body in which a plurality of insulating reception grooves are formed; a first electrode arranged below the base body; an electrorheological fluid received in the reception groove; a microcapsule having an electrophoresis particle which is dispersed in the electrorheological fluid; a second electrode arranged above the microcapsule; a braille pin installed above the second electrode; and a braille pin protection film arranged above the braille pin.
US08047848B2	Method and system for providing incentives in a business environment A method carried out by identifying acts related to enterprise performance; generating a competitive training environment, the environment including situations that model work situations requiring the acts; presenting the environment to a participant; and receiving interaction of the participant with the environment by the participant perceiving the situations and making inputs to the environment that model the acts in order to assess or improve participant skills related to enterprise performance. A system including a data component that stores data indicative of a work environment and data indicative of acts related to enterprise performance; a competitive environment generation component assimilates the data into a competitive environment that models work situations and; an interface component that presents the competitive environment to a participant and permits a participant to respond to the model work situations. A method carried out by generating a computer game where the situations presented in the game model job situations; engaging a worker as a game participant requiring the worker to advance in the game by providing appropriate inputs, the inputs to the game modeling acts that contribute to enterprise performance.
US08047847B2	Automatic crown and gingiva detection from three-dimensional virtual model of teeth A method is provided for automatically separating tooth crowns and gingival tissue in a virtual three-dimensional model of teeth and associated anatomical structures. The method orients the model with reference to a plane and automatically determines local maxima of the model and areas bounded by the local maxima. The method automatically determines saddle points between the local maxima in the model, the saddle points corresponding to boundaries between teeth. The method further positions the saddle points along a dental arch form. For each tooth, the method automatically identifies a line or path along the surface of the model linking the saddle points to each other, the path marking a transition between teeth and gingival tissue and between adjacent teeth in the model. The areas bounded by the lines correspond to the tooth crowns; the remainder of the model constitutes the gingival tissue.
US08047843B2	Matrix stabilizer devices and a seamless, single load cavity preparation and filling technique There are disclosed methods for the restoration of a decayed portion of a tooth, and interdental matrix stabilizers that can be used in the methods. The matrix stabilizer includes an elongated elastic body having a first end portion, a second opposite end portion, a middle portion connecting the first end portion and the second end portion. The middle portion includes a first section attached to the first end portion, a first intermediate section attached to a central section and the first section, a second intermediate section attached to the central section opposite the first end portion, and a second section attached to the second intermediate section and the second end portion. The first side surface of the body includes a curved outwardly extending protrusion on the first intermediate section and a curved outwardly extending protrusion on the second intermediate section. The protrusions stabilize a dental matrix.
US08047841B2	Application dental materials to the oral cavity The application of a dental material to a site in the oral cavity includes the application of vibrational energy and heat to the dental material in order to substantially impart a preselected or desired viscosity to the dental material.
US08047839B2	Methods of identifying orthodontic adhesives The present invention provides a method of identifying an orthodontic adhesive on a tooth structure, the method including selectively staining a surface including the orthodontic adhesive or the tooth structure. Methods of bonding and debonding an orthodontic appliance to and from a tooth structure are also provided.
US08047835B2	Method of transcribing fine pattern and fine structure pattern transcription apparatus A method of transcribing a shape of a surface of a stamper on a transcription surface of a transcription object by pressing the stamper on the transcription object, which comprises steps of: having one of the stamper and the transcription object positioned opposite a plate surface and the other of the stamper and the transcription object placed on one surface of a pressure plate; and having the one of the stamper and the transcription object pressed onto the plate surface by applying a fluid on the other surface of the pressure plate, wherein an area of the one surface of the pressure plate is larger than a contact area in which the other of the stamper and the transcription object is in contact with the pressure plate.
US08047834B2	Segmented pressware die set with anti-twist guide keys A heated, segmented pressware die set for making pressware containers from a paperboard blank includes a plurality of guide keys mounted between at least one of an inner member of a punch or die and an outer ring which reciprocates independently. Each guide key extends in an outward direction from the central axis of the die set. The guide keys are positioned, configured and dimensioned to engage the outer ring in order to limit rotation of the outer ring with respect to the inner member of the punch or die. In a preferred construction, the guide keys have radially extending planar surfaces which cooperate with guide channels having like surfaces such that clearances necessary to accommodate thermal expansion are reduced, greatly increasing durability of the tool.
US08047832B2	Injection/stretch blow molding machine An injection/stretch blow mold clamping mechanism comprises mold clamping shafts erected vertically movably on both sides of an injection molding operation section and extending through the lower base platen and upper base platen, hydraulic mold clamping means connected respectively to lower ends positioned within a bed of the clamping shafts, a mold clamping platen having core molds attached thereto and being fitted on the mold clamping shafts, the clamping platen being installed vertically movably between the upper base platen and a top platen, a pair of mold air cylinders connecting on both sides thereof the upper base platen and the clamping platen with each other and causing the clamping platen to move vertically with respect to the upper base platen, a mold clamping rod connected to the mold clamping platen through the top platen, and a pair of clamp members disposed on an upper surface of the top platen.
US08047831B2	Mold unit and module for electrical connection A mold unit is provided for molding an object part to be molded which is arranged on an object. The mold unit includes: a fixed core, having a dividing surface thereon; a molding die which is incorporated in the fixed core to mold the object part to be molded; and an auxiliary die interposed between the molding die and the dividing surface of the fixed core to ensure a positional accuracy of the object part to be molded with respect to the object by modifying the auxiliary die.
US08047829B1	Method for forming polymerized microfluidic devices Methods for making a micofluidic device according to embodiments of the present invention include defining a cavity. Polymer precursor solution is positioned in the cavity, and exposed to light to begin the polymerization process and define a microchannel. In some embodiments, after the polymerization process is partially complete, a solvent rinse is performed, or fresh polymer precursor introduced into the microchannel. This may promote removal of unpolymerized material from the microchannel and enable smaller feature sizes. The polymer precursor solution may contain an iniferter. Polymerized features therefore may be capped with the iniferter, which is photoactive. The iniferter may aid later binding of a polyacrylamide gel to the microchannel surface.
US08047828B2	Imprint apparatus, imprint method, and mold for imprint An imprint apparatus for imprinting a pattern provided to a mold onto a substrate or a member on the substrate includes a light source for irradiating a surface of the mold disposed opposite to the substrate and a surface of the substrate with light; an optical system for guiding the light from the light source to the surface of the mold and the surface of the substrate and guiding reflected lights from these surfaces to a spectroscope; a spectroscope for dispersing the reflected lights guided by the optical system into a spectrum; and an analyzer for analyzing a distance between the surface of the mold and the surface of the substrate. The analyzer calculates the distance between the surface of the mold and the surface of the substrate by measuring a distance between the surface of the mold and a surface formed at a position away from the surface of the mold.
US08047825B2	Fluoropolymer-containing films for use with positive-displacement fluid pumps A positive-displacement pump comprising a housing, a rotatable component disposed at least partially within the housing, and a film disposed at least partially between the housing and the rotatable component, where the film comprises a reinforcing material and a fluoropolymer material.
US08047824B2	Vane machine with stationary and rotating cylinder parts A vane-machine with cylinder stationary and rotating parts is intended for use as a driving or a working machine, utilizing compressible or non-compressible media as the working fluid. The vane-machine basic embodiment comprises: a cylinder stationary part (A), cylinder rotating parts (B), a rotor (C), covers (D), and vanes with grooves (F). The cylinder stationary part has a shroud (1) within which the rotor with the vanes rotates. In the shroud there are radial rectangular openings (5 and 6) letting the media in and out. The openings may be of other shapes as well. The inner ring (8) of roller or sliding bearings are rotationally driven by the vanes. The rotor is positioned eccentrically-relative to the shroud axes. At the rotor there are firmly fitted lateral plates (14) that rotate jointly with the rotor. The vane-machine working chamber is delimited with the shroud, the inner rings, the vanes and the plates.
US08047823B2	Scroll-type fluid machine including pressure-receiving piece A scroll-type fluid machine has a movable scroll (50) that forms pressure chambers (52) in between the movable scroll (50) and a fixed scroll (40) and is orbitable relative to the fixed scroll (40), a support wall (14) that is provided for the housing (10) and supports thrust load transmitted from the movable scroll (50), and a thrust bearing (74) disposed in between the movable scroll (50) and the support wall (14). The thrust bearing (74) includes a ring-shaped support face (64) formed in the support wall (14), a retention plate (76) fixed onto the support face (64), a retention hole (86) that is formed in the retention plate (76) and opens in both faces of the retention plate (76), and a pressure-receiving piece (88) retained in a retention hole (86) and brought into surface contact with both the support face (64) and the movable scroll (50).
US08047822B2	Continuously variable displacement vane pump and system A vane pump (20) is provided which has an output pressure hat can be selected from a continuous range of pressures, independent of the operating speed of the pump. The pump has first (68) and second (72) control chambers which create opposed forces on the pump control ring (40) to selectively move the pump control ring (40) between maximum displacement and minimum displacement positions. In one embodiment, the control chamber (68) which urges the ump control ring to the minimum displacement position is continually supplied with pressurized working fluid during operation of the ump while the control chamber (72) which urges the pump control ring to the maximum displacement position can selectively be supplied with pressurized working fluid, isolated, or can be relieved of pressurized working fluid to alter the displacement of the pump.
US08047819B2	Tubing holding device for roller pumps A tubing holding device for a roller pump is disclosed. The tubing holding device is removable from the roller pump, slidably moveable and able to be opened to allow for easy exchange of tubing in roller pumps. The tubing holding device comprises a clamping mechanism that securely holds tubing in place. Tubing of various sizes may be used within a roller pump by selecting the appropriately sized tubing holding device, or by using a tubing holding device, such as one embodiment disclosed, which may be adjustable for different sizes of tubing. Roller pumps including the tubing holding devices, and methods of loading such roller pumps are also disclosed.
US08047813B2	Noise-suppression pump apparatus and method An aromatherapy air pump is damped and largely isolated against acoustic and mechanical transmission of vibrations in three dimensions by a combination of containment within multiple, nested housings and standoffs provided by elastomeric supports having anisotropic geometry. An elastomeric liner as well as unstable legs, physical separations, and hermetic seals combine to provide sound reduction for noise and vibration emanating from the pump and its drive motor.
US08047812B2	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.
US08047810B2	Double-headed piston type compressor A double-headed piston type compressor connected with an external device is provided. The compressor includes a plurality of cylinder bore pairs, double-headed pistons, a first rotary valve, a second rotary valve, first suction passages, and second suction passages. In each cylinder bore pair, a first time period from a first top dead center timing, which is timing when the double-headed piston reaches a top dead center in a first compression chamber, to a first communication start timing, which is timing when a first introduction passage starts to communicate with a first suction passage, is different from a second time period from a second top dead center timing, which is timing when the double-headed piston reaches a top dead center in a second compression chamber, to a second communication start timing, which is timing when the second introduction passage starts to communicate with a second suction passages.
US08047803B2	Fan apparatus A fan apparatus includes a fan section having a hollow housing with an inlet and an outlet, and a hollow duct section disposed on the outlet side of the fan section. The housing and the duct section are coupled by a coupling member.
US08047799B2	Wind turbine blades with improved bond line and associated method A wind turbine blade includes an upper shell member and a lower shell member with an internal cavity therebetween. The shell members are joined at leading and trailing edges of the blade with a bond paste along a bond line having a designed width. A sleeve is disposed within the internal cavity between the upper and lower shell members along at least one of the leading or trailing edges, with the bond paste contained within the sleeve. The sleeve has a closed end that is impermeable to the bond paste and opposite sides that are permeable to air and permeable to the bond paste. The bond past adheres to the upper and lower shell members through the sleeve sides and the closed end of the sleeve defines the design width of the bond line in the internal cavity.
US08047796B2	Dovetail attachment for use with turbine assemblies and methods of assembling turbine assemblies A method of assembling a steam turbine including a rotor assembly is provided. The method includes providing at least one turbine bucket including a dovetail that includes a plurality of crush surfaces, a plurality of non-contact surfaces, and at least one neck defined between one of the crush surfaces and one of the non-contact surfaces. The method also includes providing a turbine wheel that includes at least one dovetail slot defined therein that is defined by a plurality of crush surfaces and a plurality of non-contact surfaces, and coupling the dovetail of the at least one turbine bucket within the turbine wheel slot such that a slant angle of the at least one neck facilitates a substantially uniform distribution of load between the dovetail and the at least one slot.
US08047795B2	Fan blade mounting system A ceiling fan is disclosed having an electric motor (81) with a bottom plate (80) having two internally threaded screw mounting holes (82) associated with each blade iron (83). Each blade iron has two, elongated, arcuate mounting holes (84) therethrough which are alignable with motor bottom plate mounting holes (82). A mounting screw (85) passes through the blade iron mounting hole (84) and is threaded into the motor mounting hole (82). Screws (85) allow limited pivotal movement of the blade irons (83) relative to the motor bottom plate. Each blade iron is coupled to a blade (86) by three mounting screws (87). Each blade includes a first round mounting hole (88) adjacent the motor and two, elongated, arcuate mounting holes (89) distal the motor. Again, the screws allow for limited pivotal movement between the blade and its associated blade iron.
US08047793B2	Metal impeller blade manufactured by molding and method of manufacturing the impeller blade The present invention relates to an impeller blade for turbomachine formed by molding, comprising a blade, at one end of which is provided a heel formed of a single piece with the blade, to which it is joined at the level of a connection area, the heel comprising a platform on which is provided at least one sealing plate, a first bath being provided in the platform, characterized in that a second bath is provided in the first bath, at the level of the connection area between the blade and the heel.
US08047792B2	Wind turbine pitch bearing, and use hereof The invention relates to a wind turbine including at least two pitch controlled wind turbine blades. Each blade has pitch bearings including two or more bearing rings, and pitch controlling means for pitching the blades by means of the bearings. The blades are mounted on a hub via the pitch bearings and the pitch bearings include separate flexibility enhancing means for controlling loads in the bearings.
US08047791B2	Wind turbine generator and method for constructing wind turbine generator Provided are a wind turbine generator and a method for constructing a wind turbine generator that allow for alleviation of construction costs, particularly for large wind turbine generators, and alleviation of limitations on construction due to weather. Provided are a rotor head that has a plurality of wind turbine rotor blades and that is rotated by wind power received by the plurality of wind turbine rotor blades, a front segment disposed on top of a tower and constituting a nacelle to which the rotor head is attached, a rear segment attached to the front segment and constituting the nacelle, a front frame disposed in the front segment and positioned between the rotor head and the tower so as to support a load on the rotor head, a rear frame disposed in the rear segment and attached to the front frame, a front cover covering the periphery of the front segment, and a rear cover covering the periphery of the rear segment.
US08047789B1	Turbine airfoil A turbine airfoil for use in a gas turbine engine, the airfoil formed from a support spar with a leading edge rib having a row of impingement cooling holes, the support spar having an array of modules formed on the pressure side and the suction side of the spar, and a number of cavities separated by ribs extending across the walls of the support spar. Each module is rectangular in shape and includes an impingement compartment and a diffusion compartment separated by a rib with crossover holes to connect the two compartments. Impingement holes connect the impingement compartment to a first cavity, and spent air cooling holes connect the diffusion compartment to a second cavity located downstream from the first cavity.
US08047788B1	Turbine airfoil with near-wall serpentine cooling A turbine airfoil with a leading edge cooling air supply channel located along the leading edge region of the airfoil to supply cooling air from an outside source and a series of serpentine flow cooling circuits positioned along the leading edge of the airfoil connected to the cooling supply channel to pass cooling air through the series of serpentine passages in a direction from the airfoil root to the airfoil tip. The series of serpentine circuits includes legs on the pressure side and the suction side of the leading edge. Cooling air from the supply channel is metered into the first leg of the serpentine circuit located near the root, flows through a series of serpentine circuits along the leading edge of the airfoil, and flows out to the tip through a tip hole in the last leg of the last serpentine circuit.
US08047785B2	Counterbalanced orthogonal hydropower system A counterbalanced orthogonal hydropower system for generating electricity comprises -an upper and lower turbines made as ring-shaped platforms, each incorporating a rotor, the turbines include hydro-dynamical blades positioned to rotate the turbines in opposite directions, -variously disposed inductors, -a tower mounted on a water reservoir's bottom, -a frame, supported by the tower and peripherally surrounded by a rigid polygon-shaped structure having vertexes, -units for rotatable support of the turbines associated with the frame, and -units for support of the inductors, wherein the latters are attached to the vertexes through spring-loaded hinges. It may also comprise units for support of the circular shape of platforms, for braking rotation of the turbines, for unloading the turbines from lateral forces, and for unloading the turbines from vertical forces. The top turbine may have negative buoyancy, while the bottom turbine and frame may have positive buoyancy. The frame can be made of hollow rods.
US08047784B2	Lift device for rotor blade in wind turbine A lift device for a rotor blade and a method for increasing the lift of a rotor blade for a wind turbine are disclosed. The rotor blade has exterior surfaces defining a pressure side and a suction side extending between a leading edge and a trailing edge. The lift device includes a first aerodynamic surface configured for mounting to the pressure side of the rotor blade, and a second opposing aerodynamic surface configured to interact with wind flowing past the lift device. The lift device has a generally increasing cross-sectional area in a flow direction of the wind. The lift device is configured to increase the lift of the rotor blade.
US08047783B2	Systems and method for operating an active flow control system A method performed by a control system for operating a wind turbine includes operating a flow control system of the wind turbine in a first mode, and operating the flow control system in a second mode different than the first mode to facilitate removing debris from the flow control system. The second mode includes varying at least one of a velocity, a flow rate, and a direction of a fluid flow of the flow control system.
US08047779B2	Combined axial and transverse constraint and alignment system and method for rotary machines A system for aligning a shell of a rotary machine with a standard along an axial centerline and a transverse centerline of the rotary machine includes a pair of generally L-shaped hooks on the shell; a generally T-shaped member comprising a base, a post, and a cross member provided to the standard; a pair of axial gib keys provided on opposing sides of the cross member, at least one of the axial gib keys configured to engage at least one of the L-shaped hooks and the other being configured to engage the shell; and a pair of transverse gib keys provided on opposing sides of the post, each transverse gib key configured to engage a respective L-shaped hook.
US08047776B2	Unit for treating air with controlled flow A unit for treating air with controlled flow, comprising a free rotor (GL), single or double inlet, combined with a directional conveyor (CD), which is designed so as to be able to directionally exploit the high static efficiencies, typical of free rotors (GL), and so as to be able to obtain the maximum optimisation between the power supplied and the static pressure obtained, at the same time maintaining low sound emissions, low dynamic pressure values at the discharge and no perturbation of the flow and of the performances both at the discharge and at the suction.
US08047774B2	System for heating and cooling wind turbine components A heating and cooling system for a wind turbine is provided and includes a gearbox, gearbox heat exchanger, generator, generator heat exchanger, and a cooling duct. The cooling duct is connected to the gearbox and generator heat exchangers, and is used to transport air across both heat exchangers to cool the gearbox and generator.
US08047772B2	Variable geometry turbine for a turbocharger and method of controlling the turbine There is described a variable geometry turbine having a sliding element (5) for the control of the section throat of the turbine (1) by sliding movement along an axial direction of a turbine wheel (71). The turbine wheel operates to convert a flow of working fluid into mechanical energy. At least one bypass channel (51) is defined in the sliding element (5). The bypass channel is further connected to a turbine wheel outlet area (79) downstream of the turbine wheel for selectively guiding an excess flow of working fluid past the turbine wheel (71), so as to control the operation of the turbine. A use of the variable geometry turbine with a turbocharger for an engine and a method for controlling such turbine is also described.
US08047768B2	Split impeller configuration for synchronizing thermal response between turbine wheels An impeller system with split impeller configuration between adjacent turbine wheels for synchronizing their thermal response is provided. Exemplary embodiments include a turbomachine having a turbine, a compressor and a rotor disposed between the turbine and the compressor, and an impeller system. An impeller system includes a turbomachine wheel, and another turbomachine wheel disposed adjacent to the first turbomachine wheel, a rabbet joint defined between the first and second turbomachine wheels and a split impeller disposed on the first and second turbomachine wheels.
US08047767B2	High pressure first stage turbine and seal assembly A high pressure first stage turbine and seal assembly are described. In one embodiment, a high pressure turbine section is provided. The turbine section includes at least one stage, at least one rotor and a bucket assembly. The bucket assembly includes a bucket and an attachment fixture. The stage has a high root reaction during operation. An intermediate space is between the bucket assembly and a stationary component of the turbine section. A seal is provided between the stationary member and the rotor to facilitate preventing leakage from the intermediate space toward an end of the stage. Steam balance holes are provided in the rotor or the bucket to facilitate feeding steam towards an end of the turbine stage.
US08047766B2	Electromechanical drive for actuating valves The invention relates to an electromechanical drive for actuating valves, especially in steam turbines including an electromotor, a linear unit, a clutch and an electronic control unit. The linear unit includes a piston rod which is guided in a power-transmission thread of a screw nut, and is arranged, at least in sections, as a spindle and is displaceable along its longitudinal axis for actuating the valve in the screw nut with the power-transmission thread. The clutch is arranged for transmitting a rotational movement of the motor axis of the electromotor onto the piston rod. The electronic control unit is set up to control the speed and/or rotor position of the motor axis of the electromotor depending on a control signal and an output signal of a position pick-up of the position of the piston rod in the screw nut with power-transmission thread, and/or to control the engagement and/or disengagement of the clutch depending on the control signal.
US08047755B2	Plate material stocker facility The present invention provides a plate material stocker facility with a simplified pallet loading and unloading mechanism. The plate material stocker facility includes a plate material stocker 4 in which pallets 9 each allowing a plate material to be stacked thereon are stored, and a pallet slide device 2. The plate material stocker 4 has a plurality of pallet support portions 10 arranged in stages in a vertical direction, the pallet support portions slidably moving the respective pallets 9 in a front-back direction, and supporting the respective pallets 9 and switchably moving the pallets 9 between a first position 4a and a second position 4b, and a plurality of posts 11, 12 supporting the pallet support portions 10. A gap is present between the adjacent pallet support portions 10. The posts 12 located at a rear end are arranged inside respective lateral ends of the pallet support portions 10. The pallet slider device 2 has a slider 30 that is movable in a direction parallel to a slide direction of each of the pallets 9, and pallet abutting portions 33 attached to the slider 30 and coming into abutting contact with the pallet 9. The pallet abutting portions 33 come into abutting contact with the abutting target portions 18 of the pallet 9 at positions outside, in a lateral direction, the respective posts 12.
US08047748B2	Cutting tool insert having internal microduct for coolant A cutting tool insert includes: a body defining a rake face, a flank face, and a cutting edge at an intersection of the rake and flank faces; and a cooling microduct within the body. The microduct has a cross-sectional area of not more than 1.0 square millimeter. The microduct is adapted to permit the flow of a coolant therethrough to transfer heat away from the cutting edge and extend the useful life of the insert. The microduct may have a portion with a cross-sectional area no larger than 0.004 square millimeter, and may communicate through at least one of the rake fact and the flank face to exhaust coolant near the cutting edge and further enhance cooling.
US08047746B2	Cutting-tool unit having a chip, a chip holder, and a device for mounting a chip holder A chip holder and a mounting device for the installation of a chip holder in cutting-tool bodies. The chip holder includes a male thread and one or more through, suitably peripheral recesses for accommodating torque-transferring fingers included in the mounting device, as well as for allowing passage of cooling liquid through a bore formed in the tool body in which bore the holder is placed. The mounting device includes one or more torque-transferring fingers, which have looking hooks in order to provisionally clamp the chip holder upon installation. Furthermore, the invention relates to a cutting-tool unit having an installed chip holder.
US08047741B2	Road-milling machine or machine for working deposits The invention relates to a road-milling machine or machine for working deposits, such as deposits of coal, ores, minerals, etc. by surface mining. The machine according to the invention has an arrangement 14 for detecting the path followed by a milled edge 13 of a milled strip, with the arrangement for detecting the path followed by the milled edge having means 14 for measuring the distance between at least one reference point I on the machine and the milled edge. The means 14 for detecting the path followed by the milled edge co-operate with the arrangement 6 for steering the track-laying units 3A, 3B in such a way that the machine follows the path followed by the milled edge. The distance between the at least one reference point on the machine and the milled edge can be set in such a way that milled strips situated alongside one another are exactly aligned relative to one another.
US08047734B2	Pencil-form cosmetic composition and cosmetic product thereof A pencil-form cosmetic composition which has a good stability at high temperature, an excellent smoothness during application, and an excellent long-lasting property, and also provides a cosmetic product thereof. The pencil-form cosmetic composition comprises (a) 15 to 50% by mass of volatile oil, (b) 5 to 25% by mass of heavy liquid isoparaffin, and (c) 5 to 30% by mass of rice wax.
US08047733B2	Blade drive device A blade drive device includes: a board having a shutter opening; a blade for adjusting an amount of light entering the shutter opening; and a transmitting member for transmitting a drive force to the blade. The transmitting member includes a drive pin swinging about a given support point. The blade has a first cam slot engaged with the drive pin and swinging about a given support point in conjunction with a swinging of the drive pin. The first cam slot includes a first permitting area and a first restricting area. The blade is permitted to swing when the drive pin is located in the first permitting area. The blade is restricted from swinging when the drive pin is located in the first restricting area.
US08047731B2	Electronic device An electronic device includes a main body, a lens received in the main body, and a collapsible lens cover with one end fixed on the main body and the other end capable of resisting or detaching from the main body such that the lens is covered or uncovered.
US08047729B2	Enhanced camera transport system and method An enhanced camera transport system and method includes a strap and coupler. The coupler is configured to engage with an attachment point on a camera otherwise reserved by engagement with a camera stand such as a tripod, monopod, or the like. Following general camera construction, the attachment point is found on the bottom of the camera. In some implementations, the coupler is slideably attached to the strap to assist with repositioning of the camera from a transport position to a picture taking position. Other implementations include an enclosure for storage of the camera while not being used.
US08047727B1	Strain-relief assemblies and methods for a field-installable fiber optic connector A strain-relief assembly for a field-installable fiber optic connector is disclosed, wherein the assembly includes a ferrule holder, an intermediate sleeve, and a crimp sleeve. The ferrule holder back section holds a buffered section of a fiber optic cable, while the ferrule holder front end holds a ferrule and a splice assembly. A stub fiber is held within the ferrule and the splice assembly so as to interface with a section of field optical fiber protruding from the buffered section. The intermediate sleeve engages and generally surrounds a portion of the ferrule holder back section and thus surrounds a portion of the buffered layer. An intermediate sleeve handler may be used to handle the intermediate sleeve and attached the intermediate sleeve to the ferrule holder back section. Stress-relief strands from the fiber optic cable are flared around the outer surface of the intermediate sleeve. A crimp sleeve is placed over the intermediate sleeve to hold the ends of the stress-relief strands in place. The crimp sleeve is then crimped, which fixes the strand ends in place and also fixes the intermediate sleeve in place on the ferrule back section.
US08047726B2	Optical connector An optical connector in which the housing property into a cabinet or the like can be enhanced because of the compactification, and which can solve problems of the increase of the bending loss of an optical fiber, the breakage, and the like is obtained. In an optical connector which houses and holds a fusion spliced portion where a short optical fiber previously fitted to an optical connector ferrule is fusion-spliced with a coated optical fiber, one end of a protection sleeve which armors the fusion spliced portion is coupled to the optical connector ferrule. As a result, the length of the protection sleeve which covers the fusion spliced portion so that the fusion spliced portion is positioned at the middle can be set with reference to an end portion of the optical connector ferrule. Therefore, the protection sleeve can be shortened, and compactification of the optical connector can be realized.
US08047725B2	Assembly-type durable optical connector adapter In an optical connector adapter for use in connecting a first and a second optical connector plug to each other, a second adapter half is butted against a first adapter half in a predetermined direction. The first and second adapter halves have engaging means for maintaining the first and second adapter halves in a butted state in the predetermined direction. The engaging means is configured to be disposed inside the optical connector adapter and to be prevented from releasing engagement thereof by at least one of the first and second optical connector plugs.
US08047723B2	Single-row spherical roller bearing with increased axial load capacity A radial anti friction bearing (1) which is configured as a single-row spherical roller bearing, which includes an outer bearing ring (2), an inner bearing ring (3) and a plurality of spherical rollers (5) that are arranged between the bearing rings (2, 3). The spherical rollers have respectively two side faces (6, 7) which are flattened symmetrically from a spherical base shape, are retained with uniform spacing to each other a bearing cage (4) and roll with their running faces (8) in two groove-shaped raceways (11, 12) which are defined, respectively, by two axial rims (13, 14 and 15, 16). The width (bK) of the spherical rollers (5) between their side faces (6, 7) is smaller than the distance (aB) between the radially opposing axial rims (13, 15 and 14, 16), such that the spherical rollers (5) can be in the space therebetween via the axial mounting method in the radial anti friction bearing. The radial anti-friction bearing (1) has an increased axial load capacity suitable for variable axial loads at a operational pressure angle (α) of up to 20° on both sides of the bearing longitudinal axis (17), in which the raceways (11, 12) in both bearing grooves (2, 3) are formed with an increased depth (tLA, tLI) and width (bLA, bLI) and the spherical rollers (5) have a width (bK) between their side surfaces (6, 7) which is arranged to the operational pressure angle (α) at 20°.
US08047717B2	Bearing positioning structure for motor A bearing positioning structure for a motor includes an axial tube and a positioning member. The positioning member includes a pressing portion and a coupling portion. The coupling portion of the positioning member is engaged with a coupling section of the axial tube for securely mounting the positioning member to the axial tube, with the pressing portion of the positioning member pressing against a bearing to position the bearing in the axial tube. In another example, the coupling portion of the positioning member engages with a coupling section on a stator.
US08047714B2	Diagnostic delivery service Systems, methods, and other modalities are described for (a) obtaining an indication relating to an emission module (which may be dangerous, e.g.) or its user (who may be untrained, e.g.) and for (b) configuring the module or causing an irradiation (for imaging, e.g.) in response to the indication.
US08047708B2	Device, method and vessel assembly for the measurement of heat flow at least one sample The present invention relates to a device and a method for the measurement of heat flow from at least one sample. The device 1 is adapted to receive a multi well vessel assembly (2) with samples in one or several vessels (21, 22, . . . 2n). The device (1) comprises an opening (11) for insertion of the vessel assembly (2) into the device (1), a measurement chamber (12) with a heat sink (13), a channel (14) extending from the opening (11) to the measurement chamber (12). The present invention specifically teaches that the opening (11) and channel (14) leads horizontally into the device (1), and that the height of the opening (11), channel (14) and measurement chamber (12) is only high enough to receive the vessel assembly (2).
US08047707B2	Passive thermal image glass breakage detector A system and method for detecting glass breakage using thermal imaging is provided. The system includes an infrared image detector for acquiring an infrared image of a monitored area, and a signal processor for processing the acquired images to determine removal of a glass door or window based on a comparison of the thermal signature of the acquired image against the thermal signature of a reference image. Specifically, signal processor subtracts the reference image data from the acquired image data, which results in a substantially uniform image when the acquired image matches the reference image. On the other hand, the image resulting from the subtraction exhibits significant non-uniformity when the acquired image does not match the reference image, as would be the case if the pane of glass of a door or window were broken, removed or opened.
US08047704B2	Dispenser with dynamic mixer for two-part compositions Novel dispenser means are provided for mixing and dispensing two-part curable compositions wherein the mixer elements are isolated from the curable components.
US08047690B2	Heat removal system and method for light emitting diode lighting apparatus A heat removal assembly for a light emitting diode lighting apparatus is described. One embodiment of the heat removal assembly includes a plurality of fins configured to receive heat from a light emitting diode. In the plurality of fins, two adjacent fins are separated by a gap width, and each fin has a fin length. The heat removal assembly also includes a duct configured to draw a stack-effect airflow through the plurality of fins to remove heat from the plurality of fins. The gap width separating two adjacent fins and the fin length of each of the fins are configured to prevent boundary layer choking the plurality of fins. In one embodiment, the heat removal assembly also includes a conductor and a thermal storage system configured to receive heat from the light emitting diode. A lighting apparatus including the heat removal assembly, a light emitting diode, and a connector plug is also described. In one embodiment, the lighting apparatus can be installed in a recessed can in which incoming and outgoing flows of a stack-effect airflow are separated. Methods for removing heat from a light emitting diode are also described.
US08047689B2	Air-tite compact fluorescent lamp plate A lamp subassembly includes an air-tight plate, a mounting lamp holder coupled to the air-tight plate, and a mounting spring coupled to the air-tight plate and the mounting lamp holder. The lamp subassembly is coupled to a trim with the mounting spring and coupled to a lamp with the mounting lamp holder to form a lighting fixture. The air-tight plate is coupled to a top opening located on the trim and forms an air-tight interface therebetween. The mounting lamp holder positions the lamp at least partially within the trim. The air leakage through the air-tight interface is equal to or less than two cubic feet per minute at a seventy-five Pascal pressure difference.
US08047686B2	Multiple light-emitting element heat pipe assembly The present invention provides an optical device comprising one or more heat pipes with a desired level of thermal coupling with the light-emitting elements which are positioned along a periphery of the evaporator surface portion of the heat pipe in such a way that they are thermally coupled to the heat pipe. In one embodiment, the heat pipe of the present invention can be readily integrated with optical elements such as reflectors or collimators.
US08047682B2	LED street lamp assembly An LED street lamp assembly includes a central member having a first LED module fixed to a top surface thereof, a plurality of lamps attached to circumference of the central member and each having a second LED module therein, a plurality of sensors each mounted in one of the lamps and a controlling and driving circuit board received in the central member for receiving signal sent out by the sensors. If there is a goer approaches the LED street lamp assembly, the sensors are activated to send out signal to the controlling and driving circuit board to turn on the second LED modules of the lamps one by one as the goer comes closer and closer. If the goer passes by and is going away from the LED street lamp assembly, the sensors stop sending out signal to the control and driving circuit board to switch off the second LED module of the lamps one by one as the goer goes away farther and farther.
US08047680B2	LED lamp with large light emitting angle An LED lamp includes a heat sink and a plurality of LED modules. The heat sink includes a base and a plurality of supporters extending from a top face of the base. Each supporter has an inclined supporting face facing an adjacent one of two opposite lateral sides of the base. Each LED module is mounted on an inclined supporting face of a corresponding supporter. The supporters have extending heights gradually increasing along a horizontal direction from the two opposite lateral sides toward a center of the base. Angles between the base and the supporting faces of the supporters are acute angles and gradually decrease along the horizontal direction from the two opposite lateral sides toward the center of the base.
US08047677B2	LED illuminator A light emitting diode illuminator includes a reflecting shell (120), a light emitting diode light source (140) and a transparent cover (160). The reflecting shell includes a plurality of sequentially connected hollow tapered bodies (122, 124) having different taper angles. The tapered bodies cooperatively form a receiving space (123). The light source is installed at an end of the receiving space. The transparent cover is disposed at an opposite end of the reflecting shell away from to the light source and configured for directing light emitted from the light source out from the light emitting diode illuminator.
US08047673B2	Light control device exhibiting batwing luminous intensity distributions in upper and lower hemispheres A light control device implemented as a luminaire exhibits an ultra-wide batwing luminous intensity distribution in an upper hemisphere that provides substantially uniform illumination of a ceiling surface, even when the luminaire is mounted very close to the ceiling. Luminous side panel diffusers facilitate blending the luminaire with the ceiling surface as they create a batwing luminous intensity distribution in a lower hemisphere to evenly illuminate a work plane.
US08047672B2	Mosaic floors and corresponding installation procedures The invention relates to a mosaic floor (20) consisting of layers and comprising at least one mosaic section (26) comprising illuminating elements (3) that are integrated into the mosaic floor (20) and the structure comprises at least the following layers: a mosaic layer (13) that has a plurality of individual mosaic elements (2) and a plurality of individual illuminating elements (3), said illuminating elements (3) being connected to an electric cable or to a light conductor (4), in particular glass fibres, that are introduced from below, a channel layer (14) that comprises at least one rigid plate (7) having a channel system (15) that is open to the top or to the bottom in which the electric cable or the light conductor (4) are laid.
US08047671B2	Clamp with lamp A clamp with lamp, particularly useful for attaching to an automobile battery, or similar rechargeable battery, when charging or otherwise working with the battery, is disclosed. The clamp with lamp is configured to provide a convenient source of light during nighttime or other low-light conditions and to provide an automated means for turning the light on and off during use. The clamp with lamp includes an LED lamp disposed on the upper jaw of the clamp, a battery disposed in a battery case inside the handle and a switching mechanism. A switching mechanism is actuated when the jaws of the clamp open, thereby providing power to the LED lamp. When the clamp is engaged with the automobile battery, and when the jaws are closed, the switching mechanism turns off the LED lamp to save electricity. The clamp is small, handy, elegant, and durable.
US08047670B2	Booklight for a protective cover of an eReader A booklight for a protective cover for an eReader, wherein the protective cover includes a pocket for supporting the booklight, the booklight including a base, a light housing assembly having a light source, a manipulatable neck coupled between the base and the light housing assembly, and a base tab rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the base tab includes a first end rotatably coupled to the base tab, and a second end extending from the first end, wherein the second end is a free end, and wherein at least a portion of the free end is configured to engage the pocket of the protective cover.
US08047668B2	Display device, backlight module of such display device, and method of fixing circuit board on such backlight module A backlight module includes at least one light source, a lamp cover and a circuit board. The lamp cover has a containing portion and at least one projection. The containing portion is arranged for containing the light source. The projection is located at an outer side of the containing portion on which the circuit board is placed so that at least one fixing portion of the circuit board is in contact with the projection for constraining movements of the circuit board relative to the lamp cover.
US08047667B2	Vehicular interior rearview mirror system An interior rearview mirror system for a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and an information display operable to display information for viewing by the driver of the vehicle through a transflective mirror reflector of a reflective element of the interior rearview mirror assembly. Information display intensity of the information display is adjustable responsive to determination of a light level at the interior rearview mirror assembly by at least one photosensor. The information display is operable to display video images captured by a rearward facing video camera of the vehicle and the information display displays video images captured by the rearward facing video camera during a reversing maneuver of the vehicle. During a reversing maneuver of the vehicle, a signal indicative of the vehicle transmission being in reverse is communicated via a network bus of the vehicle to a control of the interior rearview mirror assembly.
US08047665B2	Rearview mirror assembly having a composite reflective surface An exterior rearview mirror assembly for a motor vehicle includes a housing defining an interior and including a mirror opening oriented rearward when the exterior rearview mirror assembly is secured to the motor vehicle. A backing plate is operatively connected to the housing in the interior. The backing plate is selectively moveable within the housing. A primary mirror is fixedly secured to a first portion of the backing plate. A secondary mirror is fixedly secured to a second portion of the backing plate. The secondary mirror is spaced apart from the primary mirror. An adhesive member extends between the backing plate and the primary and secondary mirrors such that the single adhesive member secures all of the primary and secondary mirrors to the backing plate. A demarcation divider separates the primary and secondary mirrors. The demarcation divider is secured to the backing plate.
US08047664B2	Control of an automatic darkening filter A protective automatic darkening filter (ADF) and an associated tool, such as a welding torch, are controlled by a corresponding communication unit. The invention helps to ensure that the tool is not activated before the ADF has reached its dark state. A communication channel between the communication unit and the ADF may be established using a wired or wireless medium.
US08047662B2	Antiglare film, polarizing plate and image display device An antiglare film includes a transparent support; and an antiglare layer containing a binder and a fine particle, wherein the antiglare layer has an average thickness smaller than an average particle diameter of the fine particle, and the antiglare layer has a surface roughness skewness (Rsk) of from 0.5 to 1.5.
US08047661B2	Height adjustment apparatus for projector A height adjustment apparatus for a projector includes a lifting member and an operation member. The projector includes a front wall and a bottom wall substantially perpendicular to the front wall. The front wall defines a first opening and the bottom wall defines a second opening. The bottom wall has a protruding portion extending from an inner surface of the bottom wall. The lifting member includes a supporting portion and an engaging portion. An end surface of the lifting member away from the supporting portion has a plurality of teeth. The operation member includes a receiving frame and an operating portion. The inner surface of the receiving frame away from the operating portion has a latching portion for latching with the teeth of the lifting member.
US08047660B2	Projection system and method including spatial light modulator and compact diffractive optics A method and apparatus for a projection display system includes a spatial light modulator and a volume illumination hologram. The spatial light modulator comprises a digital micromirror device, and the projection system includes a laser light source to produce a sequence of collimated, colored, light beams for the illumination hologram. Waste light produced by the spatial light modulator is transmitted to the illumination hologram, and the illumination hologram emits waste light from at least one of its edges. Waste light emitted from an edge of the illumination hologram is absorbed by a light sensor to control the intensity of the light beams. A projection focusing element is mounted proximate a side of the illumination hologram to focus the image beam from the spatial light modulator for viewing. A projection hologram is interposed between the side of the illumination hologram and the projection focusing element to manage waste light.
US08047659B2	Light source device, image display apparatus, and monitor apparatus A light source device includes plural light-emitting elements that emit lights, a wavelength selection element that has plural light selection areas in which wavelength selection is performed for the lights emitted from the plural light-emitting elements, respectively, and selectively reflects a part of the lights emitted from the plural light-emitting elements, a state detecting unit that detects states of the plural light selection areas of the wavelength selection element, and a state changing unit that changes, according to the states of the plural light selection areas detected by the state detecting unit, the states of the light selection areas of the wavelength selection element to make wavelengths of the lights selected in the plural light selection areas different from one another.
US08047658B2	Methods and systems for multiple primary color display Methods and systems for multiple primary color display are provided. Methods and systems of the present invention improve the spectrum efficiency of a color display system, and provide enhanced brightness and color gamut. In an embodiment, methods and systems of the present invention improve the brightness of a color display system employing a high pressure lamp by efficiently incorporating lights components of the lamp output that are outside the red, green, and blue spectrum in creating the color image.
US08047652B1	Portable electronic amsler test A method, system and apparatus are provided for portable evaluation of metamophopsia. The method, system and apparatus includes a computer application capable of making any handset or portable display terminal into a portable electronic eye evaluation unit, including clinician's and/or automated assistance, test evaluation and re-test if required.
US08047647B2	Fluid ejecting apparatus A fluid ejecting apparatus includes a supporting member that supports a fluid ejection target medium; a fluid ejecting head that is provided opposite to the supporting member so as to eject fluid toward the supporting member; and a medium ejecting unit that ejects the medium in a first direction while holding the medium in such a manner that the medium is supported by the supporting member. The medium ejecting unit includes a driving roller that is provided at the supporting-member side and is in contact with the medium from the supporting-member side when the medium ejecting unit holds the medium, and a driven roller that is provided at the fluid-ejecting-head side and is in contact with the medium from the fluid-ejecting-head side when the medium ejecting unit holds the medium.
US08047644B2	Ink-jet recording apparatus, method of removing air of ink-jet recording apparatus and removing air device An air removing device is connected to a tank to contain ink through a first supply tube, and an ink-jet head is connected to the air removing device through a second supply tube. The first supply tube and ink-jet head are heated and controlled. Air dissolved in ink is sucked out through a hollow fiber membrane provided in a housing by operating a vacuum pump by supplying ink to the hollow fiber membrane while heating and controlling atmosphere in the housing. Thus, air dissolved in ink is removed, and ink heated to a temperature suitable for ejection is supplied to the ink-jet head.
US08047641B2	Liquid container This invention provides a highly reliable liquid container without degrading a liquid accommodation efficiency or increasing a substantial cost. When the liquid container is impacted, the liquid container can protect against damage the flexible film that forms the liquid accommodation chamber. The recessed portion is provided on the inner surface of the cover member facing the plate material. Provided at the opening of the recessed portion is the shock absorbing sheet that elastically deforms into the recessed portion when the plate member is impacted.
US08047637B2	Piezoelectric actuator and manufacturing method thereof, liquid ejecting head, and image forming apparatus A piezoelectric actuator is disclosed. The piezoelectric actuator includes a base member and three or more piezoelectric element members in which plural piezoelectric elements are formed by slits. The three or more piezoelectric element members are arrayed in a line on the base member and a gap is formed at the connection position between two adjacent piezoelectric element members.
US08047635B2	Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting device A liquid ejecting head includes a reservoir forming substrate provided with a reservoir serving as a common liquid chamber; in which at least a portion of a wall surface of the reservoir is an inclined surface, a lower side of the reservoir in a vertical direction is provided with a lower portion of which a width is wider than an upper portion of the reservoir in the vertical direction thanks to the inclined surface, a compliance portion which absorbs pressure of the reservoir is disposed at an area which faces the lower portion and has a shape corresponding to the lower portion, and the reservoir communicates with an upper portion of each of the pressure generating chambers in the vertical direction rather than a lower portion of each of pressure generating chambers.
US08047634B2	Injet jet stack external manifold An inkjet external ink manifold is provided that allows for use of a jet stack that does not internally contain ink manifolds. The external ink manifold has a manifold body that includes one or more ink manifold chambers and includes ports arranged to connect the chambers to one or more ink reservoirs. The external ink manifold further includes an adhesive layer overlying and sealing the ink manifold chambers. The adhesive layer includes a plurality of ports arranged to connect the external ink manifold chambers to the jet stack.
US08047630B2	Liquid drop ejecting head and image forming apparatus, liquid drop ejecting apparatus, recording method The same water-repellent process is provided on a nozzle forming part and the outer circumferential part of a nozzle formation member. A first water-repellent layer is formed through a first water-repellent process on the surface of a nozzle forming part (which forms nozzles on a surface of a nozzle plate, and a second water-repellent layer is formed through a second water-repellent process different from the first water-repellent process on the surface of the outer circumferential part (outer portion of surface) of the nozzle plate.
US08047629B2	Inkjet printer and inkjet print method The present invention provides an inkjet printer and an inkjet printing method, which enable an ink that overflowed to the outside from the edge of a printing medium to be fully absorbed by a platen. More specifically, the present invention provides an inkjet printer, having a platen, which absorbs a pigment ink that overflows to the outside of a printing medium when edgeless printing is carried out on the printing medium by using an ink that employs a pigment as a colorant, moving a printing head along a guide shaft, and ejecting the pigment ink from the printing head, and also an inkjet printing method, wherein the platen is impregnated with a humecant, a base, and the like.
US08047627B2	Inkjet printing correction method and inkjet printing apparatus An inkjet printing correction method is used with an inkjet printing apparatus. The inkjet printing correction method includes the following steps. Firstly, a first test image file is printed out as a print test pattern by the inkjet printing apparatus. Then, the print test pattern is scanned to obtain a second test image file. Then, all second block intervals are compared with respective first block intervals, thereby obtaining correction interval difference data. According to the comparing results, a procedure of ejecting ink droplets from the ink nozzles is determined to be advanced or delayed.
US08047623B2	Refrigerator A refrigerator includes a main body having a storage chamber; a shelf movably provided to the inside of the storage chamber; a guide unit guiding a movement of the shelf; and a transfer means provided at least one side of the shelf and transferring driving power for moving the shelf. Through such a configuration, it is possible to adjust height of the shelf, without drawing out the shelf to the outside of the storage chamber.
US08047622B2	Mounting structure of storage container for refrigerator A storage container of a storage container for a refrigerator, which is configured to mount the storage container for storing articles therein to a storage container seating portion formed in a rear surface of a refrigerator door by using a mounting protrusion and locking mechanism provided on the storage container and a mounting groove and catching protrusion provided on the storage container seating portion. The mounting structure includes a storage container seating portion depressed into a portion of a rear surface of a door; a storage container seated in the storage container seating portion and formed with a space for storing articles therein; a mounting protrusion and mounting groove formed on the storage container seating portion and storage container, respectively, at positions corresponding to each other to be matched in shape with each other and used for fixing the storage container into the storage container seating portion; and a locking mechanism provided on a portion of the storage container for locking the storage container into the storage container seating portion by causing a portion of the locking mechanism to be caught to a protruding portion of the storage container seating portion.
US08047619B2	Security display case A security display case including an enclosure having a security portion and a display portion, a platform moveable from the security portion to the display portion, a security member that secures the security portion, a gas spring that moves the platform from the security portion to the display portion, and a stabilizing assembly that stabilizes the moving platform. Optionally, the gas spring is paired with another gas spring so that the lateral forces of the springs are substantially cancelled, and the vertical forces are combined to move the platform. The stabilizing assembly can be a rack and pinion gear including at least two pinion gears engaged by a common member which synchronizes rotation of the gears to prevent binding of the platform as it is moved. The security member can include doors that fold over the security portion and which are engaged at their edges by a common locking member.
US08047618B2	Brake system for a motor vehicle A braking system for a motor vehicle includes a hydraulic circuit for producing a brake force, the hydraulic circuit having a pressure source for producing a hydraulic pressure and a pressure store, the pressure store of the hydraulic circuit being able to be supplied with hydraulic fluid from a delivery side of the pressure source if necessary. In this braking system, there is provision for the pressure store to be able to be coupled in fluidic terms to an intake side of the pressure source by means of an interposed actively controllable multi-way valve, in particular a two-way solenoid valve, and for the pressure store to be able to be decoupled therefrom.
US08047614B2	Seat apparatus and vehicle The present invention provides a seat apparatus having: a seat back; a forward tilt device that allows at least a portion of the seat back to tilt forward; a securing device that secures the seat back at a vehicle body side; and a release strap that is used for releasing a securing condition of the securing device and has a grip portion. The release strap has a first condition in which the grip portion is positioned at a rear side of the seat back and a second condition in which the grip portion is positioned at a portion so as to be accessible from a front side of the seat back, and one of the first condition and the second condition of the release strap can be selected.
US08047610B2	Vehicle seats A vehicle seat that includes a support base, a seat back tiltably supported on the support base, a seat cushion, a first link and a second link. Each of the first and second links is pivotally coupled to the support base and the seat cushion, so that a multi-link mechanism is formed by the support base, the seat cushion, the first link and the second link. A coupling device couples the seat back to the first link, so that the first link can pivot relative to the support base and the seat cushion in response to the tilting movement of the seat back. The tilting movement of the seat back causes the seat cushion to shift toward the support base, while a coupling point between the first link and the seat cushion and a coupling point between the second link and the seat cushion move substantially in the same direction relative to the support base.
US08047606B2	Headrest operating devices One aspect according to the invention can include a headrest operating device including a backside collision detecting device that can produce an operational force upon detection of occurrence of backside collision. The operational force of the backside collision detecting device can be transmitted to an operation member via an interlocking member. A switching device can switch a path of movement of the interlocking member between an inoperative path and an operative path. When no backside collision occurs, the interlocking member can move along the inoperative path, so that the operational force of the backside collision detecting device cannot be transmitted to the operation member. When the backside collision occurs, the interlocking member can move along the operative path, so that the operational force of the backside collision detecting device can be transmitted to the operation member.
US08047602B2	Shock absorber made of fiber material The invention relates to a shock absorber for protection against side impact on a motor vehicle, which absorber is made of fiber material and has a cross-sectional profile comprising at least first, second, third and fourth flanks, wherein two consecutive flanks extend in opposite directions, respectively.
US08047600B2	Tarp enclosure system A retractable tarpaulin cover system includes a tarp cover, plural spaced substantially U-shaped bows supporting and connected to the tarp cover, movable carriages operably connected to lower ends of each bow, and a tensioning mechanism which moves an end one of said bows toward an endmost position thereof to tension the tarp cover in an expanded position of the cover. The tensioning mechanism includes an elongate brace arm having an upper end which operatively engages an upper or intermediate portion of a vertically extending leg of the end bow, a transmission device which operatively supports a lower end of the brace arm and rotates the arm in a longitudinal direction of the cover system to thereby also move the end bow in the longitudinal direction of the cover system, and a coupling which detachably connects the lower end of the brace arm to the transmission device.
US08047595B2	Remote release with powered actuator A powered actuator includes a rotating output member that may be operatively connected to one or more cables or mechanical links for release/actuation of a lock, latch, or the like, of a vehicle seat or other component. The powered actuator may be configured to provide a required force on the release cable and/or a required distance of travel. The actuator may also be configured to provide for proper timing of the movement of the release cables if required for a particular application.
US08047592B2	Armrest hinge unit for vehicle An armrest hinge unit for a vehicle includes a lower bracket fixed to one side of an armrest container near an opening thereof and including a pivoting-allowable space in the lower bracket, a frictional member disposed in the pivoting-allowable space of the lower bracket and fixed to the lower bracket, and an upper bracket having a hinge portion hingedly coupled to the lower bracket and a receiving groove to elastically receive the frictional member therein, the upper bracket being connected to an armrest cover, wherein at least an inner surface of the receiving groove of the upper bracket is in elastic contact with the frictional member so that a position of the arm rest cover is maintained by frictional force therebetween.
US08047591B2	Grip device for moving front floor A grip device for moving a front floor of a vehicle includes a front clamping member and a rear clamping member. The front claming member can clamp a flange portion around a suspension mounting hole of the front floor according to an angle of the flange portion. The rear clamping member can claim a member flange portion of the front floor according to the change of clamping position. The device can be applied to various vehicle models.
US08047587B2	Vehicle body vibration damping apparatus A bumper reinforcement 11 that extends in a vehicle width direction and is removably attached to a vehicle body frame 4 is provided. A vibration damping portion integrally provided with the bumper reinforcement 11 is provided. The vibration damping portion is formed by a hydraulic damper 3 formed into an elongated shape extending in the vehicle width direction and generates damping force with respect to elastic deformation of the bumper reinforcement 11 in the vehicle width direction. Moreover, both ends of the hydraulic damper 3 in the vehicle width direction are fixed to the bumper reinforcement 11.
US08047584B2	Striker assembly A striker assembly includes a plate configured for attachment to a vehicle and a striker attached to the plate. The striker is configured for securing a latch assembly of the vehicle in a first position. The striker assembly also includes a first resilient member configured for contacting the latch assembly in the first position and a second resilient member configured for cooperating with the first resilient member to move the latch assembly to a second position.
US08047582B1	Electro-mechanical lock An electro-mechanical lock for gates and similar applications having a latch assembly and a strike assembly. The strike assembly has a strike which is self-adjusting to accommodate misalignment to guide the strike roller into proper engagement in the latch assembly. The latch assembly has a latch which is operably connected to a solenoid by a trigger and transfer mechanism which provides pre-load capability.
US08047580B2	Apparatus and method for tying a necktie An apparatus and method for tying a Windsor knot. In particular, an apparatus and method for tying a Windsor knot for a necktie, with the knot being symmetric, and the tie hanging straight and of proper length for the wearer or the necktie. The apparatus and method are universal for neckties, not requiring a special necktie to be used in conjunction with the apparatus and method.
US08047578B2	Pipe joint arrangement A pipe joint arrangement, which is intended for enabling one or more angular deflections successive in a longitudinal direction along an elongated pipeline in one or more planes. A joining piece is connectible with pipeline sections to be coupled with each other successively in the longitudinal direction and includes of frame elements locked to each other in a longitudinal direction and provided therebetween a swivel member with a substantially cylindrical or spherical swiveling face for enabling movement of the frame elements by rotating the same relative to each other with respect to one or more axes of rotation.
US08047574B2	Passenger automobile In a passenger automobile having a pressure tank which extends along the longitudinal vehicle axis, the tank comprises between its front and rear ends at least one conical section.
US08047573B2	Seat belt retractor A seat belt retractor for a safety belt including a seat belt spindle for winding up and unwinding the safety belt and a tensioning drive. The seat belt spindle includes a gas generator, a drive wheel and a supply pipe which connects the gas generator and the drive wheel. A plurality of thrust members are present in the supply pipe which, after triggering the gas generator, are accelerated and indirectly or directly drive the drive wheel for winding up the safety belt. An inertia coupling is arranged between the drive wheel and the seat belt spindle. The inertia coupling comprises coupling elements which, during an acceleration of the drive wheel, pivot outward and are directly or indirectly coupled to the seat belt spindle.
US08047572B2	Reversibly deployable energy absorbing assembly and methods for operating the same A reversibly deployable energy absorbing assembly includes a rigid support structure having at least one inlet and at least one outlet; a flexible covering sealingly engaged with the rigid support structure to define an inflatable interior region; a gas source in fluid communication with the at least one inlet; an inlet control valve positioned intermediate the gas source and the at least one inlet; and an actively controlled pressure relief valve in fluid communication with the at least one outlet. The inlet control valve and the pressure relief valve are adapted to provide a response suitable for use in vehicle impact management.
US08047565B2	Side airbag apparatus and method for folding airbag A side airbag apparatus 1 is provided between tops 8 of seat backs 2b, 3b. When supplied with inflation gas from an inflator 1c, an airbag 20 is projected from a storage portion 1b. At this time, the airbag 20 is first inflated and deployed upward and forward at the height of an occupant, so as to be capable of restricting the movement of the occupant's head toward the inside of the vehicle at an early stage of a side collision.
US08047557B2	Vehicle body frame structure Vehicle body frame structure, for each of left and right side sections of the vehicle, a straight vertical frame to which are mounted the respective one ends of an upper arm, lower arm and cushion unit, and respective mounting sections for the upper arm, lower arm and cushion unit provided in linear alignment with one another in the straight vertical frame along the length thereof.
US08047556B2	Board where the voluntary advance is possible Disclosed herein is a board capable of voluntary forward movement. The board comprises: a pair of front and rear boards, each of which is integrated with a connecting step formed on its lower surface and has a connecting hole formed within the connecting step; a connecting assembly including a connecting pipe inserted into the connecting holes, fixing blocks rotatably coupled to both ends of the connecting pipe to integrally connect the front board and the rear board, each of the fixing blocks having a track groove, and coupling pins inserted into the track grooves through the connecting pipe to be in association with the connecting pipe so that the front and rear boards are rotated within limited angle ranges corresponding to predetermined widths of the track grooves; and voluntary advancement assemblies.
US08047555B2	Airplane ground support equipment cart having extractable modules and a generator module that is seperable from power conversion and air conditioning modules A ground support equipment cart contains one or more removable equipment modules. The cart contains a rectangular module containing airplane air conditioning components mounted upon the cart and extending the width of the cart but occupying substantially less than half of the cart's length. The cart also contains one or more rectangular equipment modules removably mounted upon the cart, one or two of the removable modules containing electrical power converting components. And the cart contains a rectangular module containing power generating components mounted upon the cart and occupying substantially the remainder of the cart. The cart separates into two parts, one part containing the module containing power generating components. The cart also contains a control module having a display and controls for, and that is networked to, the other modules. One or more of the removable modules slide out on a tray and may be locked in position.
US08047553B2	Collapsible rolling support stand having a support leg A collapsible folding stand for use with a horizontally oriented object such as a portable table saw that is attached to the stand is capable of being manipulated between open and closed positions. In the open position, the top frame is horizontally oriented. In the closed position, the stand is generally vertically oriented. To move the rolling stand from its open position to its closed position, the user needs only to lift the handle and the top frame will then move to its generally vertical closed position where the latching mechanism can then be engaged. The stand has an integrated support leg that can be selectively positioned and locked to provide increased stability for the stand. The support leg has a locking mechanism, which is operated by a single locking lever and can be adjusted to compensate for wear or degree of force needed to lock the mechanism.
US08047551B2	Multi-stage height control valve including position sensitive pilot signal and pressure boost for vehicle air springs A multi-stage height control valve for a pneumatic control system of a vehicle includes an air reservoir port, an exhaust port, an air spring port and a pilot port operatively connected to a rotor valve which is in turn operatively connected to the vehicle. The air reservoir port fluidly communicates with an air tank. The air spring port fluidly communicates with the air springs of the vehicle. The exhaust port opens to atmosphere. The pilot port fluidly communicates with a control/warning device such that, when a secondary ride height is reached by the vehicle, the pilot port signals the control/warning device in order to maintain the vehicle at the secondary ride height. The pilot port alternatively provides an air pressure boost in order to quickly re-inflate the air springs of the vehicle to return the vehicle to the primary design ride height.
US08047548B2	Bearing alignment device and seal arrangement An alignment apparatus includes a first stator, located in a stator of a piece of rotating equipment, and a second stator couplingly connected to the first stator and able to be angularly rotated relative to the first stator. The second stator can seal an interface between a shaft and housing in the piece of rotating equipment. The alignment apparatus permits angular misalignment between a stator, a housing and a rotor shaft, and may be used, for example, in a bearing protector or an isolator installed on a Pillow Box.
US08047545B2	Lottery-type game with rollover feature Disclosed is a lottery-type game which involves providing a plurality of playing cards, each of which having one or more game symbols displayed thereon, and a master game card. The game further involves distributing at least a portion of the playing cards to a plurality of individual players and selecting one or more of the individual players having playing cards displaying predetermined selected ones of the game symbols. The game further includes determining whether one or more of the selected individual players are winners of primary prizes associated with an initial and a subsequent level of play. If none of the selected individual players are determined to be winners of the primary prize value associated with the initial level of play, at least a portion of the primary prize value associated with the initial level of play is rolled over into a primary prize value associated with the subsequent level of play.
US08047544B2	Printing apparatus A printing apparatus includes a holding section connected to a downstream end of a main transfer path for consecutively transferring paper sheets and formed of a curved transfer path, which consecutively transfers the paper sheets led out from the main transfer path in a curved state and holds them in an overlaid state.
US08047542B2	Printing apparatus capable of handling paper size error In a printing apparatus, even when the measured paper size differs from the scheduled size, it is possible to reduce the frequency of requiring a recovery procedure, and prevent the productivity from decreasing by continuing the operation of the printing apparatus as much as possible. The printing apparatus includes a paper feeding unit for feeding a print sheet from a paper feed tray 120, 130a, 130b, 130c or 130d to a transportation route CR through a paper feed route FR, in-tray sensors 182, 183a, 183b . . . for measuring the paper size in the paper feed trays; a transportation sensor 181 for measuring the paper size on the transportation route, a transportation operation adjusting unit 332 for adjusting the transportation operation on the transportation or paper feed route according to the measurement result of the transportation sensor 181 when the measurement results of the transportation sensor 181 and in-tray sensors mismatch.
US08047541B2	Duplicate feeding detection device for sheet-like member A duplicate feeding detection device for use with sheet-like members may include a control part for controlling an ultrasonic transmission part, a duplicate feeding judging part for judging duplicate feeding of the sheet-like members on a basis of an output from an ultrasonic receiving part, a temperature measuring part for measuring temperature of a vicinity of the ultrasonic transmission part, and a memory part in which a relationship between an oscillation frequency of the ultrasonic transmission part and a temperature is stored. The control part sets an oscillation frequency corresponding to a temperature which is measured by the temperature measuring part on a basis of the relationship between the oscillation frequency and the temperature stored in the memory part.
US08047539B2	Image forming apparatus If a jam detecting portion detects a sheet jam, a rear end position of the jammed sheet is computed based on information, when a rear end of the jammed sheet is located within an area A1 and a length Ls of the jammed sheet in a conveying direction of the sheet is equal to or shorter than a distance L between the area A1 and an area A2, driving operations of a pre-registration roller and a registration roller are controlled so that the jammed sheet is conveyed to a downstream until a rear end of the sheet passes through a downstream end of the area A1. When Ls is longer than L, the pre-registration roller and the registration roller are controlled so that the jammed sheet is conveyed toward the upstream until the rear end of the sheet passes through an upstream end of the area A1.
US08047534B2	Sheet accommodating device and image recording apparatus with a translating pressing member attached to a rotating tray cover A sheet accommodating device including: a tray configured to accommodate a sheet; and a pressing member configured to press the sheet accommodated in the tray, wherein the pressing member includes a guide portion configured to guide, where the sheet accommodated in the tray is transferred, the transferred sheet toward a downstream side in a sheet transferring direction in which the sheet is transferred.
US08047520B2	Movable article coupling apparatus The coupling apparatus for bringing a pallet 3 (a movable article) near to a base side support 2 from above, positioning it in the horizontal X, Y directions and in the vertical Z direction, and clamping it in a releasable manner comprises a pair of first engaging protrusions 12 and a pair of second engaging protrusions 13 formed on the top surface of the support 2 for positing in the X direction and in the Y direction, respectively; a pair of first movable article side engaging protrusions 32 each abutting the pair of first engaging protrusions 12 on one side and a pair of second movable article side engaging protrusions 33 each abutting the pair of second engaging protrusions 12 on one side; a Z direction positioning mechanism 8 for positioning the pallet 3 relative to the support 2 in the Z direction; and a clamping mechanism 7 for clamping the pallet 3 on the support 2.
US08047518B2	Device for positioning an object in all directions The positioning device can position a spherical object. This object is placed and held by gravity on three points of support (P, P′, P″) of the positioning device. The center of gravity of the object in any position is within the triangle formed by the three points of support. The positioning device includes means for driving the object in rotation. The drive means includes a drive member including wheel whose contact with the external surface of the object forms one of the support points (P) of the positioning device. This drive member can impose a rotation on the object, via the wheel, in all directions. The other two points of support (P′, P″) are made using two ball and socket joints, wherein the ball is held on an air cushion in a housing of the ball and socket joint.
US08047515B2	Jig and method for processing cylinder block A jig for used in performing a finish processing of a cylinder bore 3 comprises a jig body 10 that comes close to and disengages from a cylinder head mounting surface 2, bolt member 16 that forms a tapered bore portion 20 by a internal surface 21 of a plurality of blot pieces 18 having a threaded portion 19 engageable to a female threaded portion 8 of a head bolt hole 7 and that expands the diameter thereof by a wedge action receiving through the tapered bore portion 20, a tapered shaft member 17 having a tapered surface portion 22 inserted into the tapered bore portion 20 so as to add the wedge action to it, and a piston member 24 having a pressing surface 23 contacting a given surface portion on the cylinder head mounting surface 2.
US08047514B2	Spring arrangement for a vehicle A spring arrangement for a vehicle, in particular a rail vehicle, with a first spring device and a second spring device, wherein the first spring device and the second spring device are mechanically arranged in series, and are designed to support a component of the vehicle on a further component of the vehicle in a support direction, the first spring device has a first transverse rigidity in a transverse direction running transverse to the support direction, the second spring device has a second rigidity in the transverse direction which is smaller than the first transverse rigidity. The first spring device and the second spring device are arranged nested in the support direction.
US08047507B2	Modular lift assembly A modular lift assembly includes a frame, at least one head block connected to the frame, a drum rotatably connected to the frame about an axis of rotation and having at least one winding section, and a drive mechanism operatively connected to the drum for rotating the drum. In various examples, the lift assembly includes at least one loft block internal or external relative to the frame. The loft block is configured to guide a cable from the at least one head block to a load. The lift assembly can further include a load brake positioned along the axis of drum rotation to reduce risks associated with a drive or motor failure.
US08047506B2	Cable pulling apparatus and method for pulling thereof The present invention is directed to an apparatus for distributing a cable-pulling composition onto a cable as it is being pulled through a conduit. In one embodiment, the cable pulling composition is a block of an enhanced composition, e.g., consisting essentially of boron nitride that facilitates the pulling of cables through conduits. The invention further relates to a method for pulling cables through conduits by applying an effective amount of boron nitride composition onto the cable surface through the use of the cable-pulling apparatus of the invention.
US08047503B2	Conical spring bushing A bushing for positioning between a first component and a second component is disclosed. The bushing comprises a conical body that includes a first edge, a second edge, and at least one slot extending from the first edge toward the second edge. The slot or slots facilitate the flexing of the conical body. Methods for making a conical bushing are also disclosed.
US08047501B2	Device for controlling the switching movement of a valve The invention relates to a device for controlling the switching movement of a valve according to the preamble of claim 1. It is the object of the present invention to design a control device in this regard such that it can be largely prefabricated and can be very easily converted to different operating voltages or data protocols, that the stock inventory of these control devices can be reduced and that economical quantities can be achieved more easily than before. This is achieved in that an internal control unit (2) of the control device (1) comprises a standardized operating voltage (UB), that also the pilot valve(s) (5) operates (operate) with the standardized operating voltage, that an adapting module (I; I) is accommodated in the control device (1), which is connected with the internal control unit (2) through an internal interface (B), that the respective signal structure of the control unit (2) and of the adapting module (I; I) are equal at the internal interface (B), and that the internal control unit (2) is supplied with voltage through the adapting module (I; I*).
US08047497B2	Mount structure A mount structure includes a base and a bearer. The base has a slot, and at least one combining block is disposed protruding from the slot. The bearer has a bearing portion and a combining portion. The bearing portion is connected to a display, and the combining portion is installed in the slot through hooks, buckles, latches, screws, or other combining methods, such that the bearer is fixed on the base. Moreover, the combining portion is provided with reinforcing ribs for enhancing the structural strength of the bearer.
US08047495B2	Height adjustable container system A height adjustable container system which includes a container through which at least one elongated, inner supporting member extends. The supporting member is secured at one end to a mounting system consisting of a ceiling mount and corresponding U-bracket/bolt combination. In one embodiment of the invention, an elongated inner supporting member is telescopically located within an elongated outer supporting member. A spring biased press button or mechanical stop component extending from the inner supporting member allows the outer supporting member on which the container is mounted to be vertically lowered, so that when the container is used as a planter, the plants in the container can be watered and when the container is a bird feeder, bird food can be added to the feeder. By simply pushing the container upward along the supporting member, the container is again elevated and locked in its elevated, suspended position. In a second embodiment of the invention, the container is supported by a single supporting member which guides its movement vertically up and down from a suspended elevated position to a lowered position.
US08047494B2	Tool for clamping optical glass element A tool for clamping an optical glass element includes a first arm, a second arm, a first clamping portion and a second clamping portion. The first and second arms are pivotally connected with each other and are rotatable relative to each other about a first axis. The first clamping portion is rotatably connected to an end portion of the first arm distal from the first axis and is rotatable relative to the first arm about a second axis. The second axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The second clamping portion is rotatably connected to an end portion of the second arm distal from the first axis and is rotatable relative to second arm about a third axis. The third axis is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The first and second clamping portions are configured for cooperatively clamping the optical glass element therebetween.
US08047492B2	Hanger A hanger includes a body member including two hanging ends, a pivoted portion between the hanging ends and two slide rails provided between the pivoted portion and hanging ends respectively. A fastener unit is coupled to the pivoted portion for positioning the body member in a horizontal direction. Two slide members are respectively slideably disposed on the slide rails, with each slide member including a first receiving groove inserted by the related slide rail and a second receiving groove. Two hook members are pivotally coupled to the slide members respectively, with a longitudinal direction of each hook member being perpendicular to the ground.
US08047489B2	Thin design display apparatus and display unit detachment method In order to provide a display monitor, such as a thin design television or the like, in which its display unit is easily attachable and detachable from the stand structure and can be easily carried about, and where the place of installation of the display unit is not limited, a stand type thin design television includes a display unit (1), a joint body (15), a pillar (25) and a stand base (29). The joint body (15) is attached to the display unit (1) while the joint body (15) is free to be attached to and removed from the pillar (25) that is fixed to the stand base (29). In the first usage mode in which the pillar (25) and the stand base (29) are used, the joint (15) is inserted into the pillar (25). In the second usage mode in which the pillar (25) and the stand base (29) are not used, the joint body (15) itself is used as a stand.
US08047488B2	Support stand and flat-panel display monitor using the same A support stand includes a supporting leg and a hinge subassembly. The supporting leg includes a connecting portion. The hinge subassembly includes a shaft and a leaf rotatably sleeved on the shaft. The shaft has a connecting portion engaging with the connecting portion of the supporting leg. One of the connecting portions of the supporting leg and the shaft is a connecting slot, and the other one of the connecting portions of the supporting leg and the shaft is a protrusion engaged in the connecting slot, thus fixing the shaft to the supporting leg. A friction is created between the shaft and the leaf.
US08047486B2	Support bracket A support bracket comprises a first frame and a second frame. The first frame comprises a bottom surface, two first sidewalls extending from opposite edges of the bottom surface, and two second sidewalls arranged between the two first sidewalls, wherein two gaps are formed in the first frame. The second frame comprises a base plate, two first side plates extending from opposite edges of the base plate, and two second side plates arranged between the two first side plates. The second frame slidably covers the first frame, the first side plates extend through the two gaps and slide along the gaps.
US08047485B2	Rail end cover A universal rail mounting bracket for attachment of a handrail or fence rail to a support structure. A rail end cover may be inserted over the rail end after the rail has been mounted to the support structure with the bracket. A rail end cover is provided to cover any unsightly gaps or uneven cuts which may have occurred during manufacture or installation of the rail.
US08047480B2	Flat panel display having height adjusting member An exemplary flat panel display (200) includes a display body (21) and a height adjusting member (23). The height adjusting member includes a supporting member (25) and a base (26). The supporting member includes a slider (30) and a sidewall (272). The slider is attached to the display body, and the slider abuts against but is slidable up and down along the sidewall. The slider is configured to be adjustable to vary an amount of friction between the slider and the sidewall such that a height of the display body is adjustable by applying external force to the display body and moving the display body to a new height.
US08047478B1	Modular post system with holes on multiple axial planes A modular post system, in some versions, includes an exterior post extending along a central axis. The exterior post may be composed of multitude of tube segments that are coupled, with each other to form the exterior post. In some cases, each tube segment may have at least four holes arranged in a ring about the central axis. The holes are configured to allow the mounting of articles, such as playground equipment, to the post system. Thus, the exterior post may have a multitude of rings with the rings being located in axial planes a fixed distance apart along the central axis. The tube segments have interior surfaces from which ribs protrude, to define an internal channel of the exterior post. An internal core post may be partly located within the internal channel. A fastening mechanism may secure the coupled tube segments to the internal core post.
US08047475B2	Fixing, fixing structure of fixing object, fixing method for fixing object, and method for unfixing fixing When an insertion portion of a clip is inserted into a through hole and passes through the through hole, lug portions revert toward their original shape, and the top faces of the lug portions are contactable with peripheral edge portions of the through hole. An operation lever is inserted into a fixing hole of a body panel in this state, and after passing through the fixing hole, the operation lever reverts toward its original shape, and the operation lever is contactable to peripheral edge portions of the fixing hole. An operation portion is tilted from this state, and a lock bar is engaged with a lock groove. Movement of the operation lever is thereby restricted, and a housing is fixed to the body panel.
US08047474B2	Cable pathway system A cable pathway system has a base with a bottom, a generally planar top surface, a first side, and a second side. The base is configured to be secured to an electronic equipment enclosure and also has an aperture formed therein and a wall positioned adjacent to the aperture. The wall has a curved surface that extends from the top surface to the bottom. A first sidewall extends from the top surface along the first side and extends generally perpendicular to the top surface and substantially along the length of the first side. A second sidewall also extends from the top surface along the second side and extends generally perpendicular to the top surface and substantially along the length of the second side.
US08047467B2	Integrated closet system A closet comprises a support rail, a light, a raceway, a rub strip, and a hinge unit. The support rail is capable of providing structural support for the closet and having a plurality of connecting elements. The light has a first set of connecting elements capable of being engaged to the plurality of connecting elements. The raceway has a second set of connecting elements capable of being engaged to the plurality of connecting elements. The rub strip has a third set of connecting elements capable of being engaged to the plurality of connecting elements. The hinge unit has a shape capable of being connected to the support rail.
US08047466B2	Yoke with notched arm roots A yoke for a rotary wing aircraft rotor system has a plurality of arms, each arm having a root. Each root has a notched portion configured to allow passage of a portion of a blade-pitch control system through the notched portion.
US08047464B2	Method and apparatus for fast deploying and retrieving of towed bodies In a method and apparatus for controlling the deployment of a towline connecting a mooring craft to an ejected object comprising the steps of monitoring velocity to determine when a point for optimum braking has been achieved and then engaging a brake system to retard deployment of the towline, a DC motor augments and controls the brake system. The DC motor further controls the retrieval of the object. A cutter mechanism uses a first blade to grip the towing cable to maintain tension thereon as a second blade cuts the cable. A spring biased boom in combination with spring biased fins on the ejected object rapidly deploys the object from its storage housing. A locking mechanism secures the deployment mechanism in a stable locked position upon the object reaching its fully extended position.
US08047463B2	Wire winding spool A wire winding spool, comprising a tubular body for supporting a coil of wire provided, at its ends, with wall elements for containing the coil, at least one of the wall elements being provided with at least one pin for engaging means for turning the spool, each wall element being associated with the corresponding end of the tubular body so as to rest against an abutment provided on the outer surface of the wall of the body, clamped against it by a fold of the end portion of the wall.
US08047459B2	Co-axial basket mill and method of use For use in a basket mill having a process vessel in which particles are ground so as to reduce their size, a basket for retaining a grinding medium, having an opening in its top and a screen at its bottom. A first shaft extends into the basket and has a grinding assembly extending from the shaft. A first drive apparatus rotates the first shaft at a first rotational rate. A second shaft is coaxial with the first shaft and has an impeller for causing material to be ground to move into the basket through the opening and out of said basket through the screen. A second drive apparatus rotates the second shaft at a second rotational rate independent of the first rotational rate. The first shaft may be a tube. A tube may be disposed within the first shaft, and have at its end a bushing for receiving for rotation the second shaft. The bushing may be located outside of a region of the basket where grinding media is disposed. Methods for operating the apparatus.
US08047454B2	Structure for fixing reducer for sprinkler in side wall The present invention relates to a structure for fixing a reducer for a sprinkler in a side wall, and more particularly, to a structure for fixing a reducer for a sprinkler for side wall construction, in which since the reducer can easily adjust a distance from the side wall in the horizontal direction, a connection work between the reducer and the sprinkler head for the side wall construction connected to the reducer can be conveniently performed.
US08047446B2	Method of processing mailpieces that enables virtual identification of the mailpieces to be used with forwarding In a method of processing mailpieces, a digital image of a surface of a current mailpiece is formed for the purpose of using OCR to recognize a recipient postal address for said current mailpiece, and, if it is determined that the recognized recipient address corresponds to an incorrect recipient address, a forwarding address is placed on said surface of the current mailpiece. In addition to said forwarding address, an OCR-detectable mark is placed on the surface of the current mailpiece, which mark indicates that the current mailpiece bears a forwarding address, and also constitutes an index for retrieving said forwarding address from a database.
US08047444B2	Method, system and smart card reader for management of access to a smart card The described embodiments relate generally to devices, methods and systems for managing access to a memory card, such as a smart card, by a plurality of accessing devices. Certain embodiments relate to a smart card reader (SCR) for managing access to a smart card by a plurality of accessing devices. The SCR comprises: a processor; a channel manager responsive to the processor for interfacing with the smart card; and a communication interface responsive to the channel manager for communicating with the plurality of accessing devices.
US08047441B2	Barcode scanner capable of switching reading resolution of scanning A barcode scanner capable of switching the reading resolution of scanning can be used for scanning a barcode with high resolution or low resolution, including a shell body, a scan module and a switchable magnifying module. The shell body has an opening. The scan module arranged in the shell body has a lighting unit emitting an illuminating light onto the barcode through the opening and a sensing unit sensing a barcode image formed from a reflection of the barcode illuminated by the illuminating light passing through the opening. The switchable magnifying module has a magnifier for magnifying the barcode image and a switch unit for switching the position of the magnifier relative to the sensing unit. The switch unit can move the magnifier between an off-axial position, which is not between the sensing unit and the barcode, and an on-axial position, which is between the sensing unit and the barcode.
US08047435B2	System and method for secured voting transactions A secured electronic system and method for taking and counting votes. A database of unique ballot security codes, each ballot security code consisting of a ballot code representing the ballot selections of a voter and a security code derived from sensing with a biometric sensor a biometric presentation of a biometric feature of the voter. Each ballot security code is checked before entry into the database to verify that the security code component is not within a voter template of the security code component for any prior ballot security code, to prevent multiple votes being cast by any voter. Recounts are validated by verifying the uniqueness of the security code component of each ballot security code and verifying that each security code is not within a voter template of any other security code. Each ballot security code may also be checked against a registration data base thereby verifying that the voter is registered.
US08047431B2	Portable terminal, noncontact IC module, reader/writer and information distribution method Provided is a portable terminal (100) which can perform pseudo push distribution and display of a message obtained in response to a request from a reader/writer from a noncontact IC card by noncontact communication which is difficult to be always connected with. A noncontact IC card, a reader/writer and information distribution method are also provided. The noncontact IC card for receiving a message transmitted from the reader/writer by noncontact communication is mounted on the portable terminal (100). The message transmitted from the reader/writer is provided with an event header wherein setting conditions for specifying a message to be displayed by the portable terminal (100) are indicated. The portable terminal is provided with a message acquiring section (103) for acquiring only a message that satisfies the setting conditions indicated on the event header, from the noncontact IC card which has received messages, and a display section (106) which displays the message acquired from the message acquiring section (103).
US08047428B2	Cash transaction machine Provided is a cash transaction machine including a temporary stack portion. The cash transaction machine includes: a carriage receiving a paper medium stacked in the temporary stack portion; a driving belt transferring the carriage to a medium outlet; a pressing belt pressing the paper medium being transferred by the carriage in interoperation with the driving belt; a plurality of guide rollers being provided along a travel path of the carriage to define a travel path of the driving belt and a travel path of the pressing belt; and a one-way clutch adjusting an interoperating state between the driving belt and the pressing belt to prevent a friction from occurring between the pressing belt and the paper medium while the paper medium is being loaded to the carriage.
US08047426B2	System and method for independent verification of circulating bank notes A system and method for independently verifying a bank note processor's handling of circulating bank notes. Independent detectors are provided along the transport path of a bank note processing device. Also provided is at least one independent memory storage device for logging data from the independent detectors. As the note passes along the transport path, the independent detectors evaluate the note's fitness. The independent detector data is subsequently provided to the central bank or commercial organization for auditing of the bank note processor and for generating bank note statistics. Independent detectors may also be used on the transport path output bins to corroborate the other detectors and to verify the integrity of the sorting logic. Mirrored independent detectors allow for corroborating independent data. The invention is operable on any bank note processing device that performs at least a subset of a fitness determination on each note.
US08047425B2	Stored-value product with housed article A stored-value card includes an aromatic item, a housing, and an activation area. The housing substantially encloses the aromatic item, and the housing is configured to be selectively closed and opened to provide access to the aromatic item. The activation area links the housing to at least one of a stored-value account and a stored-value record such that value can be added to or deducted from the at least one of the stored-value account and the stored-value record using the activation area. Financial transaction cards, methods of encouraging purchase, and other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08047419B2	Method of manufacturing vehicle body and welding facility A welding facility includes a main welding line for manufacturing an assembly of frame members, and a sub-welding line for manufacturing an assembly of panel members, the sub-welding line merging with the main welding line. The main welding line is comprised of a plurality of welding stages provided with a welding robot, the sub-welding line is provided at the end with a transfer mechanism for transferring the panel member assembly to the desired welding stage, and the merging parts are changeable according to the type of product to be welded. The facility permits a plurality of vehicle bodies having different vehicle types to be manufactured using the same manufacturing line.
US08047415B2	Flywheel driven fastener driving tool having retractable nose assembly A fastener driving tool arranged to drive fasteners into a workpiece includes a support, at least one wheel movably mounted on the support, a driver arranged to contact and he guided by the wheel when the wheel is in an operative position in use, a nose part retractable relative to the support, and a connection mechanism to operatively interconnect the nose part with the wheel. The tool is arranged such that, in use, the retraction of the nose part causes the connection mechanism to move the wheel from an inoperative position to the operative position. Subsequent forward movement of the driver guided by the wheel toward the nose part causes the operative interconnection between the nose part and the wheel to be broken. Forward movement of the nose part relative to the support, subsequent to the operative interconnection between the nose part and the wheel being broken, causes the operative interconnection between the nose part and the wheel to be re-formed.
US08047407B2	Apparatus and method for delivery of biologic sealant A device for delivery of biologic materials, comprising: a cartridge having at least two cylinder bores for fluids to be delivered, wherein each cylinder includes an exit port for a fluid, a plunger within each cylinder for pushing the fluids out of the cylinder, a housing adapted to receive the cartridge, wherein the housing or cartridge includes an adaptor to receive and lock a manifold that operably connects to the exit ports of the cartridge, at least two toothed rams, wherein each toothed ram is at least partially within a cylinder bore, a trigger connected to the housing, wherein the trigger includes a toothed drive rack, a toothed wheel assembly that cooperates with the toothed drive rack and with the toothed rams, as well as methods of making the device, methods of using the device to treat discs, kits including the device.
US08047401B2	Systems and methods of dispensing individual servings of flavored and enhanced water Novel systems and methods for operatively utilizing nutrient/flavor impregnated media(s) operatively contained in devices, such as, for example, product structures or the like, capable of introducing the nutrients/flavors in a single serving (4-12 oz) dose packets, or multiple servings, such as, for example, a pitcher (up to 64+ oz) or a gallon or half gallon of flavored and enhanced water operatively connected to complimentary dispensing system, presently preferably, tied to a water filtration device, such as, for example, bottle less water coolers and one that could be mounted inside a refrigerator dispensing system, and the manufacture of such low cost media(s) and dispensing systems.
US08047400B1	Gravity-feed display and dispensing An improvement in a gravity-feed display and dispensing apparatus and method in which rolling articles are advanced by gravity along an upper chute from a loading location to a transition chute where the rolling articles are transferred to a lower chute located vertically below the upper chute, with a concomitant reversal of the direction of travel of the rolling articles, and then along the lower chute to a dispensing location. A plurality of retarding members are placed in position serially along the transition chute to engage a rolling article and bump the rolling article so as to gradually retard the speed of movement of the rolling article as the article traverses the transition chute, thereby limiting the magnitude of forces generated by the reversal of the direction of movement of the rolling article as the rolling article traverses the transition chute and avoiding excessive speed of movement of the rolling article upon arrival of the rolling article adjacent the dispensing location.
US08047396B2	End boss and composite pressure vessel A composite pressure vessel comprised of an inner fluid tight liner and an outer reinforced polymer layer. An end boss comprising a short pipe section arranged through an opening of the vessel and extending to a lower end with an outwardly extending flange on the pipe section arranged between the outer layer and the inner liner, and a lid arranged at an upper end of the pipe section. The inner liner extends upwards through the opening of the pipe section to the lid with at least one gas tight seal interfacing against the inner liner. A pre-tensioning device is arranged on the outside of the inner liner, in a groove nearest to the lid and pipe section, around the upper end of the pipe section, which, regardless of the pressure in the vessel, presses the inner liner against the at least one gas tight seal.
US08047392B2	Stackable liquid container In one embodiment according to the present disclosure, a liquid container generally includes a base member, an annular sidewall member, a neck member, a spout, and a handle. The annular sidewall member is attached to and extends upwardly from the base member. The neck member couples the annular sidewall member to the spout. The base member has a recessed portion that extends upwardly into the container such that the base member may rest upon the neck member of another container.
US08047388B2	Plastic container having a deep-inset base A plastic container of the type that may be formed from a material such as PET using the stretch blow molding process includes a main body portion and a base portion that is characterized by a relatively tall and narrow profile above the standing ring and that has a deep inset recess defined therein. The deep inset recess is defined in part by an upstanding inner sidewall portion adjacent to the standing ring that has a height that may be greater than about 0.35 inch. The upstanding inner sidewall portion may have a substantially straight portion that is substantially parallel to a substantially straight portion of an outer sidewall of the base.
US08047383B2	Rackmount system including conversion rail A rackmount chassis includes removable supports that provide interior support for blades having mounting edge-to-mounting edge dimensions that are less than the full chassis width. The removable supports are mounted on parallel support plates that span the full width of the chassis. Each removable support supports an edge of at least one blade installed into the rackmount chassis. The locations of the removable supports on the parallel support plates determine the blade form factors (mounting edge-to-mounting edge dimensions) that the rackmount chassis can accept. Because the removable supports can be individually removed/installed, the configuration of the resulting rackmount component can be changed without physically removing the rackmount component from the rack in which it is mounted.
US08047382B2	Membrane structure and method of making A membrane structure is provided. The membrane structure includes a first layer having a plurality of interconnected pores; and a second layer disposed on the first layer. The second layer has a plurality of unconnected pores. Each of the unconnected pores is in fluid communication with at least one of the interconnected pores of the first layer. A method of making a membrane structure is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a first layer having a plurality of interconnected pores; and disposing a second layer on the first layer. Disposing a second layer includes depositing a conducting layer on the first layer; and anodizing the conducting layer to convert the conducting layer into a porous layer.
US08047381B2	Grain classifying device and adhesive containing grains classified by the device A grain classifying device for accurately classifying the grains of uniform length, and an adhesive containing grains classified by the device and capable of connecting electrodes under a low pressure and being applicable to electrodes arranged in fine pitches. The grain classifying device (1) includes a dispersing means (2) for dispersing a plurality of grains (P). A grain orienting means (3) orients each of the dispersed grains in a transfer direction (X) of the grains (P) while spacing the grains apart from one another in the transfer direction (X) of the grains. A grain length measuring means (4) measures the length of each of the grains (P) oriented in the transfer direction (X). A grain separation means (5) separates the grains (P) having a predetermined length based on data related to the lengths of the measured grains (P).
US08047380B2	Screen panels The invention concerns screen panels of the kind used in vibratory screening operations. According to the invention, the screen panels (10) include recycled polyurethane, typically that recovered from worn screen panels. In one particular embodiment in which the panel has an upper, perforated screening section (16.1) for performing a screening action and an operatively lower section (16.2) beneath the screening section, the upper section is of molded, virgin polyurethane and the lower section comprises a reinforcing frame (12) and recycled polyurethane molded about the reinforcing frame. The invention envisages the use of blends of virgin and recycled polyurethane as well as method of manufacturing screen panels and methods of handling worn screen panels.
US08047379B2	Wafer container with purgeable supporting module A wafer container includes a container body, formed by a pair of side walls, a top surface, and a bottom surface, on one sidewall of which is formed with an opening and on the other sidewall opposite to the opening is formed with a back wall, a supporting module being disposed on each of said sidewall for supporting a plurality of wafers; and a door joining with opening of the container body with its inner surface for protecting the plurality of wafers within the container body, the characteristic in that: a purgeable supporting module is respectively disposed between each side wall of the container body and the back wall, a long slot is further disposed on the side of purgeable supporting module facing the opening, and an air inlet is further disposed on one end of the purgeable supporting module for being connected to an gas valve, wherein the purgeable supporting module is formed by a plurality of supporting ribs vertically arranged at intervals.
US08047377B2	Packaging material and method of transporting honeycomb structured body A packaging material of the present invention, which comprises a plate member, packages an object to be packaged by sandwiching the object, and the plate member is provided with an installation portion for the object to be packaged as well as a reinforcing portion.
US08047375B1	Diaper changing kit A diaper changing kit is disclosed for assisting an individual in cleaning a soiled child. The diaper changing kit comprises a container defining an interior chamber and a container aperture for accessing the interior chamber. A tool cleans the soiled child and provides both a functional and a humorous characteristic. A first body item positions on the individual and provides both a functional and a humorous characteristic. A second body item positions on the soiled child and provides both a functional and a humorous characteristic. The tool, the first body item and the second body item are positioned within the container for transporting.
US08047371B2	Packing cushion A packing cushion includes a base and a plurality of sidewalls coupled to the base. The plurality of sidewalls interconnect with each other and cooperate with the base to form an accommodating space. First and second cushion portions protrude from an inner surface of the base and an inner surface of one of sidewalls respectively. The first cushion portion includes a first surface. The second cushion portion includes a second surface. A contour defined by the first surface matches with at least a part of an object to be packed. When the object is packed in the receiving space, the first surface contacts with at least a part of the object to provide a first cushioning, and when the object is subjected to an impact to deform the first cushion portion, the second surface contacts with the object to provide a second cushioning.
US08047367B2	Shipping and storage containers A containment system includes a vapor resistant container for a material, and a seal for the vapor resistant container.
US08047365B1	Foldable case for storing multimedia device A foldable case for storing a multimedia device including a first protective sheet, a second protective sheet and a connecting unit is disclosed. The second protective sheet is used for securing the multimedia device. The connecting unit disposed between the first protective sheet and the second protective sheet may serve as a hinge with respect to which the first protective sheet is foldable over the second protective sheet. The connecting unit has an earphone receiving cavity, and a magnetic element is located in the earphone receiving cavity for magnetically attracting a wireless earphone. Moreover, as the wireless earphone is in the proximity of the earphone receiving cavity, the magnetic element magnetically attracts the wireless earphone so that the wireless earphone may be accommodated within the earphone receiving cavity.
US08047362B2	Hinge lid aroma pack A hinge lid pack has a lower pack outerframe and an upper lid hingedly attached to the lower pack outerframe for movement between opened and closed positions. The lid includes front, top, back and opposite sidewall portions. An innerframe is within and upwardly extends from the outerframe, and the innerframe has front and opposite sidewall portions. Microencapsulated aroma surfaces on the pack move across roughened perforations on the pack upon opening of the pack to thereby release flavor by rupturing the microcapsules.
US08047358B1	Cover for a conveyor A cover having at least two elongated members with each member having a hook at one end and a prong at the opposite end. The hook receives the prong of an adjacent member to interlock adjacent members. The members also have downwardly extending flanges that fit over flanges on a conveyor. The cover is connected to the conveyor by one or more brackets.
US08047357B2	Conveying device A conveying device having a drive motor with motor shaft, a motor housing, and a load-receiving support stand, where to improve the conveying device in terms of simplified assembly and ease of maintenance, the motor housing is configured as part of the load-receiving support stand.
US08047356B2	Radius belt with improved stiffness A belt module having an intermediate section including a cross rib having a corrugated portion. The intermediate section also has a web extending along the length of the intermediate section and disposed adjacent to the cross rib. The module has a first and a second plurality of link ends extending outward from the intermediate section and having a transverse opening defined therein. The link ends are formed by a pair of spaced apart link members that are connected by a end portion. The link ends have a slot or opening defined therein from the top to the bottom of the module. The slot is bordered by the inside walls of the link members. The corrugated portion of the cross rib has a reach bar portion extending between first and second link ends and has a border portion disposed adjacent to the slot formed in the link ends.
US08047353B1	Conveyor for steel strip coils and the like A conveyor comprising an endless accumulation chain and at least two sets of devices for effecting incremental movements of the chain at respective stations. Each set of devices includes a first device for engaging and disengaging respectively the chain, a second device engaged to the first device for moving it from a first position to a second position while it is engaged to the chain for effecting an incremental movement of a portion of the chain and for retracting the first device to the first position while the first device is disengaged from the chain, and a third device for engaging the chain to lock the chain portion in a fixed position while the first device is disengaged from the chain and for disengaging from the chain when the first device is engaged to the chain portion so that the first device may be moved to the second position for incrementally moving the chain portion. In order to incrementally move the conveyor chain, the first device is engaged to the chain, the second device is disengaged from the chain, the engaged first device is moved from the first position to the second position to effect incremental movement of the chain, the second device is engaged to the chain to maintain a chain portion position, the first device is disengaged from the chain, and the first device is retracted to the first position to repeat the method for another incremental chain movement.
US08047351B2	Clutch adjustment mechanism An adjustment mechanism for rotating an adjusting ring on a clutch is disclosed. The adjustment mechanism includes a support bracket having an opening therein and a a rotation assembly rotatable about an axis relative to the support bracket. The rotation assembly includes a detent mechanism that is configured to cause both rotational and axial movement of the rotation assembly relative to the support bracket when only a rotational force is applied to the rotation assembly.
US08047344B2	Torsional vibration damper and hydrodynamic torque converter device for an automotive drive train A torsional vibration damper (10) and a hydrodynamic torque converter device (1). The converter device has a converter torus (18) which is configured by an impeller (12), a turbine wheel (14) and a stator (16), and a converter lockup clutch (20). The torsional vibration damper (10) has at least one first energy accumulating device (28) with one ere or more first energy accumulators (68) (e.g. coil spring or bow spring), at least one first wall (92) radially supporting the at least one first energy accumulator (68), where a rolling body device (98) (e.g. a rolling gear) is interposed between the at least one first wall (92) and the at least first energy accumulator (68) (e.g. coil spring or bow spring).
US08047342B2	Strut type shock absorber A strut type shock absorber (1) comprises an outer shell (2) and a knuckle bracket (3). A curved portion (4) of the knuckle bracket (3) positioned in close contact with the outer shell (2) comprises a reinforcing flange (7) formed by bending a part of an axial end of the curved portion (4) outward and a no-flange portion (6), both of which are welded onto the outer shell (2). By setting an axial distance (H) from an inflection start point to an inflection end point of the outer circumferential surface of the reinforcing flange (7) to be equal to an axial distance from the inflection start point to the no-flange portion (6), and by forming an insulation portion (9) between the reinforcing flange (7) and the no-flange portion (6), an effectual welding operation and the prevention of molten metal from flowing over the reinforcing flange (7) during welding are realized.
US08047339B2	Caliper attaching type electrical parking brake in vehicle According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an EPB serving as an electrical parking brake in which a gear wheel and an external ring gear are arranged parallel to a driving gear rotating through a motor serving as the power source on a side surface, and fixed and output sun gears generating output torque are arranged to penetrate the external ring gear in a shaft direction via an internal ring gear and a planetary gear being in inner contact with the external ring gear, an overall length of a single body type housing with the motor is determined only by diameters of the driving gear, the gear wheel, and the external ring gear. Therefore, a power assembly converting the power of the motor driven by an ECU into the output torque is downsized so that a caliper mounted on a wheel presses a wheel disk.
US08047337B2	Wheel brake for a vehicle and a vehicle comprising the wheel brake A wheel brake for a vehicle including a brake disc unit adapted to brake the rotation of a rotation element, which is adapted to be drivingly connected to the wheel. The brake disc unit includes a first set of discs and a second set of discs arranged in an alternating manner in an axial direction. The discs in the first disc set are adapted to be rotationally rigidly connected to the rotation element. The brake disc unit includes at least one separator element, which is adapted to keep a sufficient distance between two adjacent discs of one of the disc sets for an intermediate disc from the other disc set to rotate at least substantially freely relative to the spaced discs when the brake disc unit is in a deactivated condition.
US08047326B2	Method for making an acoustic absorption panel in particular for the nacelle of an aircraft engine The invention relates to a method for making an acoustic absorption panel in particular for the nacelle of an aircraft engine, the panel being of the type comprising a cellular core covered on one side with a so-called outer air-permissive skin and on the other side with a so-called inner perforated skin, the cellular core being formed by the edge-to-edge junction of a plurality of blocks with a cellular core (B1, B2). The method comprises the following steps: a) before the edge-to-edge junction of blocks with a cellular core (B1, B2), opening the cells (A1, A2) located on the edges of the blocks to be joined; and b) edge-to-edge dry joining the blocks (B1, B2) so that the open cells (A1, A2) engage into one another.
US08047321B2	Hybrid propulsion and transmission system for motorcycles Herein described is a hybrid propulsion and transmission system for a motorcycle of the type comprising at least an internal combustion engine (10) and at least one driving wheel (22). The system comprises a first electric machine (14), provided with first mechanical connection means (12) to the internal combustion engine (10), and a second electric machine (18), coupled with first electric machine (14) through electric and/or electronic connection means (16) and/or through second mechanical connection means (20), and coupled with the driving wheel (22) through second mechanical connection means (20).
US08047319B2	Noise-comfort function for cooling systems with proportional variable speed fans A method for operating a cooling system for a fuel cell stack in a vehicle is provided. The method includes the steps of: determining a fan request for a variable speed fan disposed in the cooling system; employing a noise-comfort function to select a fan comfort request; and adjusting a speed of the variable speed fan in response to the fan request; wherein a noise emission by the variable speed fan is militated against. A cooling system for a fuel cell stack in a vehicle that employs the noise-comfort function is also provided.
US08047316B2	Storage battery system, on-vehicle power supply system, vehicle and method for charging storage battery system A storage battery system includes a battery module A with a first nonaqueous electrolyte battery including a negative-electrode material which has an average grain size of 2 μm or more and is used to occlude and discharge lithium ions, a battery module B with a second nonaqueous electrolyte battery set at a lithium-ion-occluding potential of 0.4V (vs.Li/Li) or more, and including a negative-electrode material which has an average grain size of primary particles of 1 μm or less and is used to occlude lithium ions, and a controller configured to intermittently connect the module A to the module B to intermittently supply power from the module A to the module B to set a charge state and a discharge depth of the second nonaqueous electrolyte battery within a range of 10 to 90%, when no power is supplied to the module B at least from an outside.
US08047311B2	Method of retaining structural transmission members A track driven vehicle comprises a structural member underneath the vehicle. The structural member includes a plurality of structural member apertures for receiving fasteners inserted therethrough. The vehicle also includes a first track carrier and a first mounting strut attached to the first track carrier. The first mounting strut, which attaches the first track carrier to the structural member, includes a plurality of mounting strut apertures which, when aligned with the structural member apertures, receive the fasteners inserted therethrough. One of the first mounting strut and the structural member includes a fixedly attached dowel pin, and the other of the first mounting strut and the structural member includes a pin receiving aperture. When attaching the first track carrier to the structural member using the first mounting strut, the dowel pin extends into the pin receiving aperture to prevent cross-shearing between the structural member and the first mounting strut. This reduces camber between the structural member and the track carrier and allows fewer fasteners to be used to attach the first track carrier to the structural member.
US08047307B2	Hybrid drill bit with secondary backup cutters positioned with high side rake angles A hybrid drill bit may have a bit body, at least one blade extending longitudinally and radially outward from the face, at least one rolling cutter assembly mounted on the bit body, at least one primary cutter, and at least one cutter set including a first cutter and a second cutter. The cutter set may be positioned to substantially follow the at least one primary cutter along the cutting path upon rotation of the bit body. At least one cutter of the cutter set may have a high side rake angle.
US08047303B2	Drilling rig drawworks installation Methods and systems for installing a drawworks on a drilling rig, the method, in certain aspects, including moving a drawworks on movement apparatus on the ground adjacent a drill floor of a rig, connecting the drawworks to the drill floor, moving the movement apparatus away from the rig, and raising the drill floor with the drawworks thereon using raising apparatus of a rig substructure supporting the drill floor. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b).
US08047302B2	Drilling and/or striking hammer with a lubricating device Disclosed is a drilling and/or striking hammer that includes a lubricating device having a lubricant reservoir and a volume of lubricant contained therein. The lubricating device conveys lubricant to at least one a transmission system within the hammer's housing, a percussion system, and/or a tool holder at a variable dosing or flow rate. The dosing or flow rate varies as a function of tool stress which can include use intensity and/or temperature. A flexible tube extends between the reservoir and the lubricated component(s). At lease part of the flexible tube vibrates with the lubricated components during use and modifies a viscosity of the lubricant therein, based on tool use intensity. A pressure generating device can pressurize the lubricant, helping convey the lubricant to a targeted area for lubricating movable parts.
US08047301B2	Disc gang assembly for an agricultural implement A disc gang for use with an agricultural implement includes a pair of front and a pair of rear disc openers mounted to a carrier boom by a mounting arm that can be independently raised and lowered as desired. The front and rear disc openers are mounted such that the openers can oscillate in response to surface undulations independently of one another. Moreover, the disc openers of each pair are free to oscillate in response to surface contours independently of one another.
US08047300B1	Cultivator A cultivator includes an operation rod and at least one fixing seat. The operation rod includes a predetermined number of detachable rotary wheels at a predetermined position. The fixing seat is pivotally connected to the operation rod. A predetermined number of cultivating claws are pivoted on a circumferential portion of the fixing seat at a predetermined angle and position after being assembled. Through the rotary wheels or the cultivating claws, the cultivator is turned left and right or back and forth to loosen soil.
US08047294B2	Dual flapper safety valve A valve system for use in a subterranean well, the valve having multiple closure devices, or a closure device and a device for protecting the closure device. A valve system includes a valve with a closure assembly. The closure assembly has a closure device and a protective device which alters fluid flow through a flow passage of the valve prior to closure of the closure device to thereby protect the closure device. A safety valve system includes a safety valve with a closure assembly having at least two closure devices arranged in series for controlling flow through a flow passage of the safety valve. Another safety valve system includes a safety valve assembly including multiple safety valves arranged in parallel. One portion of fluid from a fluid source flows through one of the safety valves, while another portion of fluid from the fluid source flows through another safety valve.
US08047291B2	Tool and method for abrasive formation of openings in downhole structures An abrasive slurry tool, the tool being attachable to a running string, the tool including a high-pressure assembly, the assembly including a nozzle assembly; and a low-pressure assembly in abrasive fluid communication with the high-pressure assembly, the low-pressure assembly comprising a low pressure holding tank configured to carry recharge abrasive fluid with the tool and method.
US08047290B1	Double swivel apparatus and method A double swivel for use with a top drive power unit supported for connection with a well string in a well bore to selectively impart longitudinal and/or rotational movement to the well string, a feeder for supplying a pumpable substance such as cement and the like from an external supply source to the interior of the well string in the well bore without first discharging it through the top drive power unit including a mandrel extending through double sleeves which are sealably and rotatably supported thereon for relative rotation between the sleeves and mandrel. The mandrel and sleeves have flow passages for communicating the pumpable substance from an external source to discharge through the sleeve and mandrel and into the interior of the well string below the top drive power unit. The unit can include a packing injection system, clamp, and novel packing configuration. In an alternative embodiment the unit can include a plug or ball insertion tool.
US08047289B2	Methods of using particulates in subterranean operations Among the methods described herein are methods using low-specific gravity particulates wherein the particulates comprise silica and an aluminum oxide in an amount of about 0.1% to about 25% by weight and having at least one void, a specific gravity of less than about 2.2, a particle sized of 8 U.S. Mesh or smaller, and a substantially spherical shape.
US08047283B2	Torque sub for use with top drive A torque sub for use with a top drive is disclosed. A method of connecting threaded tubular members for use in a wellbore includes operating a top drive. The top drive rotates a first threaded tubular member relative to a second threaded tubular member. The method further includes measuring a torque exerted on the first tubular member by the top drive. The torque is measured using a torque shaft rotationally coupled to the top drive and the first tubular. The torque shaft has a strain gage disposed thereon. The method further includes wirelessly transmitting the measured torque from the torque shaft to a stationary interface; measuring rotation of the first tubular member; compensating the rotation measurement by subtracting a deflection of the top drive and/or the first tubular member; determining acceptability of the threaded connection; and stopping rotation of the first threaded member when the threaded connection is complete or if the threaded connection is unacceptable.
US08047282B2	Methods of sonically activating cement compositions The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for sonically activating cement slurries. In some implementations, a method of treating a subterranean formation includes positioning a settable composition including a capsule in a wellbore. The capsule is used to increase a setting rate in response to at least sonic signals. A sonic signal is transmitted to at least a portion of the settable composition to release an activator from the capsule.
US08047281B2	Sleeve for expandable tubular threaded connection and method of expanding tubular thereof A tubular sleeve overlaps the threaded connection between a pair of adjacent tubular members that are to receive an expansion device for radial expansion and plastic deformation of the threaded tubular connection.
US08047280B2	Drillable bridge plug A downhole tool for isolating zones in a well, the tool including a mandrel, a sealing element disposed around the mandrel, and an upper cone disposed around the mandrel proximate an upper end of the sealing element. The tool further including an upper slip assembly disposed around the mandrel adjacent a sloped surface of the upper cone, a lower cone disposed around the mandrel proximate a lower end of the sealing element, a lower slip assembly disposed around the mandrel adjacent a sloped surface of the lower cone, and two element end rings. Further, the tool includes a first element end ring disposed adjacent the upper end of the sealing element and a second element end ring disposed adjacent the lower end of the sealing element, and two element barrier assemblies, each assembly disposed adjacent one of the two element end rings.
US08047277B1	Method and apparatus for removing casing A method and apparatus for removing a string of casing from a well bore. The method and apparatus include a plurality of drill bits substantially aligned with each other for drilling a plurality of holes in the string of casing. The plurality of holes can be used to lift the string in casing from the well bore via a series of incremental casing sections.
US08047272B2	High-temperature heat exchanger A low-cost, high-temperature heat exchanger is made from a notched piece of metal, the metal being folded back and forth upon itself to form a monolith. The notches in the metal piece create openings, communicating with distinct sides of the monolith. Ducts are attached to the openings. Cut pieces of corrugated metal, which may have a catalyst coating, are inserted between folds of the monolith. The heat exchanger may be used as part of a fuel cell system, or in other industrial applications, to recover waste heat, or to conduct various catalytic and non-catalytic reactions. The invention also includes an element, or building block, for a high-temperature heat exchanger, including a folded metal monolith with metal combs inserted, the monolith and the combs defining seams which are hermetically sealed.
US08047271B2	Heat dissipation device having a fan holder A heat dissipation device includes a heat sink, a fan holder, and a fan secured on a front side of the fan holder. The heat sink includes a base and fins on the base. An engaging groove is defined in top ends of the fins. The fan holder includes a top panel and two sidewalls extending downwardly from two lateral edges of the top panel. The top panel has an inserting protrusion at a bottom surface thereof. The two sidewalls have two latching legs at lower ends thereof. The top panel is partially placed on a front portion of the top ends of the fins, and the inserting protrusion is inserted into the engaging groove of the fins. The two sidewalls abut against two lateral sides of the heat sink, and the two latching legs fasten to two lateral sides of the base of the heat sink.
US08047267B2	Apparatus for cooling communication equipment using heat pipe The present invention is directed to an apparatus for cooling communication equipment using a heat pipe, which releases heat from a heat-emitting unit by a simple, reliable and safe scheme. The present invention provides an apparatus for releasing heat, which comprises: a heat pipe for transferring heat generated in a heat-emitting unit of the communication equipment and being mounted on a predetermined location of the heat-emitting unit; a vaporizing unit for vaporizing liquid with the heat transferred via the heat pipe and draining the vaporized liquid through a vaporization line, wherein a lower part of the vaporizing unit contacts a predetermined location of the heat pipe; a condensing unit for performing heat-exchange by condensing the vaporized liquid from the vaporizing unit and returning the condensed liquid to the vaporizing unit through a condensation line; and a small capacity fan for releasing air to the outside when the condensing unit performs the heat-exchange.
US08047266B2	Heat dissipation device A heat dissipation device includes a first heat sink, a second heat sink located on the first heat sink, a third heat sink located on the second heat sink, and a heat conducting member formed by bending a flat, plate-like member and connecting the first, second and third heat sinks. The heat conducting member includes a heat absorbing section contacting with the first heat sink, and first and second heat dissipating sections extending inwards from upper ends of first and second connecting sections extending upwardly from two ends of the heat absorbing section, respectively. The first heat dissipating section is sandwiched between the first and second heat sinks, and the second heat dissipating section is sandwiched between the second and third heat sinks. A width of the first and second heat dissipating sections is identical to that of the second heat sink.
US08047265B2	Electromagnetic stirrer coil The present invention provides a previously unattainable compact and high thrust electromagnetic stirrer coil, that is, an electromagnetic stirrer coil for stirring molten steel in a mold by electromagnetic force, in which electromagnetic stirrer coil a space factor of the yoke sectional area (−) with respect to an inside area in a vertical cross-section of said electromagnetic stirrer coil is 0.5 to 0.9 and a yoke width B is 100 mm to 300 mm. Preferably, a magnetomotive force F of said electromagnetic stirrer coil divided by the yoke width B, that is, a value of F/B, is 800 kAT/m or more.
US08047262B2	Cooling system for low-pressure casting mold A cooling system for a low-pressure casting mold is provided, in which a sprue is located at a side surface of a cylinder head to ensure a sufficient distance between a combustion chamber and the sprue so that a combustion chamber cooling system combined with water cooling and air cooling is provided in a lower mold, thus reducing cycle time. Moreover, the cooling system for a low-pressure casting mold improves mechanical properties of a material used by reducing dendrite arm spacing (DAS) and porosity.
US08047260B2	Infiltration methods for forming drill bits An infiltration method of forming an article including providing a working mold including a solid binder member extending through an interior of the working mold, wherein the solid binder member is made of a binder material, and providing a layer of powder matrix material within a molding void of the working mold. The method further includes heating the working mold to form a molten binder pathway from the solid binder member to infiltrate the layer of powder matrix material.
US08047257B2	Inflatable film production panels An apparatus for suspending above a shooting location comprises an inflatable panel and a plurality of attachment points from which the panel may be suspended. An inflation apparatus directs air into the panel through an air inlet to inflate the panel.
US08047256B2	Window origami panels and the like A curtain kit comprising a sheet of curtain material having a sheet perimeter and a plurality of fastener elements spaced along and adjacent the sheet perimeter to be attached to mating fastener elements respectively on a structural member for hanging one edge portion of the curtain sheet from the structural member. The plurality of sheet fastener elements are positioned along and adjacent the sheet perimeter in a quantity and spacing over the entirety of the sheet perimeter to be attached to respective ones of the structural member fastener elements for hanging various other edge portions of the curtain sheet from the structural member so that the curtain can be hung from the structural member in a variety of alternative origami-like patterns. The curtain kit includes one or more of the structural member, the structural member fastener elements, a printed instruction sheet for hanging the curtain in at least one of the patterns, codes for identifying said sheet fastener elements, a cover member for hiding the structural member from view, and decorative accessories. A decorative sheet kit comprises a sheet of material having at least one hole therein, a decorative member sized for covering the hole, and a clip attached to the decorative member for clipping to an edge of the hole.
US08047252B2	Modular component pressure application fixture The present invention relates to a pressure application device for curing an adhesive on a component, particularly components of complex geometries. The device comprises a pair of jaws, at least one spring recessed into a cavity defined within the first jaw, and a cap. A first end of a spring partially extends into the cavity and a second end of the spring contacts the cap. When force is applied to the cap, the cap transmits the force through the spring to the first jaw. In order to limit the separation of the cap from the first jaw, a retainer is used.
US08047251B2	Reduction of powder waste in selective inhibition of sintering Disclosed are methods and systems for selective inhibition of sintering in 3D fabrication. The disclosure provides methods and systems that use selective heating arrangements to selectively sinter areas during fabrication thereby reducing waste improving efficiency.
US08047246B2	Apparatus for controlling tire inflation pressure An apparatus for controlling tire inflation pressure includes an outlet side end portion of a supplying passageway opened on an outer circumference of a column-shaped boss portion provided in an axle, and an inlet side end portion of an introducing passageway that is opened on an inner circumference of an annular hub portion provided in a wheel. A wheel is mounted onto the axle. The inner circumference of the annular hub portion is engaged with the outer circumference of the column-shaped boss portion, and thereby the outlet side end portion and the inlet side end portion are communicatively connected to each other air tightly. Thus, easiness in mounting a vehicle wheel assembly relative to the axle can be improved.
US08047245B2	Non-skid tyre cover A non-skid tire cover comprises an annular strip, suitable for covering the tire tread, which comprises a textile portion and at least one ribbed insert, for example in polymeric material.
US08047238B2	Cured in place pipe liner A liner for repairing damaged pipes, such as underground sewer or gas pipes is disclosed. The liner comprises a TPU coating on a fibrous mat of non-woven fabric. The TPU coating is a high heat resistance polyester TPU which allows an epoxy resin/amine to be saturated in the non-woven fabric and the cure initiated by the use of steam or hot water. The cured epoxy resin converts the liner from a flexible state to a rigid state as the liner is cured in place inside the pipe. The TPU containing liner may also be used with thermoset resins other than epoxy resins, such as polyester resins and vinyl ester resins.
US08047235B2	Fluid-permeable body having a superhydrophobic surface Apparatus including a rigid fluid-permeable body, having a first non-planar fluid-permeable body surface, and having a second fluid-permeable body surface; a plurality of fluid-permeable cells in the fluid-permeable body; and a plurality of raised micro-scale features on the first fluid-permeable body surface. Apparatus including a fluid-permeable body having first and second fluid-permeable body surfaces; a plurality of fluid-permeable cells in the fluid-permeable body; a plurality of raised micro-scale features on the first fluid-permeable body surface; and a fluid containment body forming, together with the second fluid-permeable body surface, a second fluid containment structure. Methods, utilizing an apparatus, of treating a liquid with a fluid, and of maintaining a superhydrophobic surface.
US08047232B2	Enhancement of vortex induced forces and motion through surface roughness control Roughness is added to the surface of a bluff body in a relative motion with respect to a fluid. The amount, size, and distribution of roughness on the body surface is controlled passively or actively to modify the flow around the body and subsequently the Vortex Induced Forces and Motion (VIFM). The added roughness, when designed and implemented appropriately, affects in a predetermined way the boundary layer, the separation of the boundary layer, the level of turbulence, the wake, the drag and lift forces, and consequently the Vortex Induced Motion (VIM), and the fluid-structure interaction. The goal of surface roughness control is to increase Vortex Induced Forces and Motion. Enhancement is needed in such applications as harnessing of clean and renewable energy from ocean/river currents using the ocean energy converter VIVACE (Vortex Induced Vibration for Aquatic Clean Energy).
US08047231B2	Valve element unit and gate valve apparatus To provide a valve element unit and a gate valve apparatus which realize a reduction in manufacturing cost by a compact and simple structure and smooth rotary driving of the valve element without greatly moving the valve element in the direction of the center of rotation when the valve element is rotary driven.When a valve element unit 52 is rotary driven by valve element driving mechanisms 54, a rotary drive radius R2 of longitudinal both end sides of a first valve element 56 is smaller than a rotary drive radius R1 of a longitudinal center side of the first valve element 56. Therefore, even when a sidewall is formed on a longitudinal outer side of a transfer port 46 of a casing 44, part of the valve element unit 52 does not come into contact (interfere) with the sidewall, which makes it possible to rotary drive the valve element unit 52 only by slightly moving the valve element unit 52 in a direction of the center of rotation, without greatly moving the valve element unit 52 in the direction of the center of rotation at the time of the rotary driving.
US08047229B2	Fuel cartridge with connecting valve A shut-off valve or connecting valve capable of connecting a fuel supply to a fuel cell is disclosed. The valve comprises a first valve component and a second valve component. Each valve component has an outer housing and a biased slidable member disposed inside the housing forming an internal seal. During the connection process, the two valve components establish an inter-component seal. Afterward, in one suitable embodiment the slidable member moves inward and opens the internal seal in the valve component to establish a flow path. In another embodiment, the slidable member moves inward and exposes a first filler and the first filler abuts a second filler in the other valve component to establish a flow path. In other embodiments, at least one valve component is sized and dimensioned to limit access to the internal seal.
US08047228B2	Metering system and use thereof This invention relates to a valve assembly comprising (a) a valve body defining a valve chamber, an inlet port and a discharge port, wherein the inlet port and discharge port communicate with the valve chamber; and (b) a valve member in the valve chamber, the valve member comprising a passage having (1) a first opening and (2) a second opening housing a filter having an inlet surface proximate to the inlet port and a discharge surface proximate to the discharge port, wherein the passage communicates with the inlet port and discharge port, and wherein the valve member is moveable to alternately juxtapose the inlet port and either the filter inlet surface or the filter discharge surface. The invention further relates to a particulate material metering and/or feed system comprising the valve assembly.
US08047227B2	Pressure limiting valve The invention relates to a pressure limiting valve. The pressure limiting valve comprises a valve holder a valve insert connected to the valve holder a valve piston slidably supported in the valve insert and a compression spring acting on the valve piston in the closing direction. Between the valve piston and the compression spring an adjusting shim is disposed such that the compression spring is braced on one end on a bottom piece of the valve holder and on the other on a face of the adjusting shim facing away from the valve piston.
US08047224B2	Cartridge insert valve The present invention is for a cartridge insert valve to limit excess flow through a pipe which is part of a piping system. The cartridge insert valve includes a cylindrical housing and an inlet cap with an inlet opening defined therein. The inlet cap is positioned on a cylindrical housing first end. The cartridge insert valve also includes a seat cap with an orifice defined therein. The seat cap is positioned on a cylindrical housing second end opposite the cylindrical housing first end. The cartridge insert valve is located in the pipe such that a fluid flowing through the pipe normally enters the inlet cap, flows through the cylindrical housing and exits the seat cap. The cartridge insert valve also includes a piston assembly that shuts off flow through the valve in response to an excess flow through the valve.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10