Document Document Title
US08053176B2 Patterning method of organic electroluminescent device
The present invention provides a patterning method of an organic EL device that can easily and efficiently be performed with high definition, and that can control a contrast by a luminous brightness.In an organic EL device having an organic layer, including an organic luminescent material, formed between a pair of counter electrodes, ultraviolet ray is irradiated to the organic layer, and the amount of irradiation is changed to form an emission pattern having a contrast caused by a luminous brightness corresponding to the amount of the irradiation of the ultraviolet ray.
US08053173B2 Multi-functional linear siloxane compound, a siloxane polymer prepared from the compound, and a process for forming a dielectric film by using the polymer
A novel multi-functional linear siloxane compound, a siloxane polymer prepared from the siloxane compound, and a process for forming a dielectric film by using the siloxane polymer. The linear siloxane polymer has enhanced mechanical properties (e.g., modulus), superior thermal stability, a low carbon content and a low hygroscopicity and is prepared by the homopolymerization of the linear siloxane compound or the copolymerization of the linear siloxane compound with another monomer. A dielectric film can be produced by heat-curing a coating solution containing the siloxane polymer which is highly reactive. The siloxane polymer prepared from the siloxane compound not only has satisfactory mechanical properties, thermal stability and crack resistance, but also exhibits a low hygroscopicity and excellent compatibility with pore-forming materials, which leads to a low dielectric constant. Furthermore, the siloxane polymer retains a relatively low carbon content but a high SiO2 content, resulting in its improved applicability to semiconductor devices. Therefore, the siloxane polymer is advantageously used as a material for dielectric films of semiconductor devices.
US08053172B2 Photoresists and methods for optical proximity correction
Photolithography compositions and methods. A first layer of a first photoresist is formed on a substrate. A second layer of a second photoresist is formed directly onto the first layer. The second polymer of the second photoresist includes an absorbing moiety. The second layer is patternwise imaged and developed, resulting in removal of base-soluble regions. A relief pattern from the second layer remains. The relief pattern and the first layer are exposed to a second dose of the radiation. The polymer in the relief pattern absorbs a portion of the second dose. A fraction of the second dose passes through the at least one region of the relief pattern and exposes at least one region of the first layer. The relief pattern and base-soluble regions of the first layer are removed. A relief pattern from the first layer remains. A second photolithography method and a photoresist composition are also included.
US08053171B2 Substrate having film pattern and manufacturing method of the same, manufacturing method of semiconductor device, liquid crystal television, and EL television
The invention provides a manufacturing method of a substrate having a film pattern including an insulating film, a semiconductor film, a conductive film and the like by simple steps, and also a manufacturing method of a semiconductor device which is low in cost with high throughput and yield. According to the invention, after forming a first protective film which has low wettability on a substrate, a material which has high wettability is applied or discharged on an outer edge of a first mask pattern, thereby a film pattern and a substrate having the film pattern are formed.
US08053169B2 Ink composition, inkjet recording method, printed material, and process for producing lithographic printing plate
An ink composition is provided that includes (A) an N-vinyllactam, (B) a polymerization initiator, and (C) a basic compound, the content of the N-vinyllactam (A) being at least 15 wt % of the total weight of the ink composition. There is also provided an inkjet recording method that includes (a1) a step of discharging the ink composition onto a recording medium, and (b1) a step of curing the ink composition by irradiating the discharged ink composition with actinic radiation. Furthermore, a printed material obtained using the ink composition is provided. Moreover, there is provided a process for producing a lithographic printing plate that includes (a2) a step of discharging the ink composition onto a hydrophilic support, and (b2) a step of curing the ink composition by irradiating the discharged ink composition with actinic radiation so as to form a hydrophobic image on the hydrophilic support by curing the ink composition.
US08053167B2 Curable compositions containing hydroxythiol compound, and cured products thereof
Curable compositions have high sensitivity and excellent developability, and further have good storage properties as required. The compositions include a hydroxythiol compound represented by Formula (1) below and a compound with an ethylenically unsaturated double bond: wherein R1 and R2 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a C1-10 alkyl group or an aromatic ring; X is an aliphatic group, an aromatic ring-containing group or a heterocyclic ring-containing group; Y is an ester bond; k and l are each an integer ranging from 1 to 20; m is an integer of 0, 1 or 2; and n is 0 or 1.
US08053162B2 Substrate and imageable element with hydrophilic interlayer
A substrate useful for forming lithographic printing plate precursors includes a metal or polymer support and an interlayer comprising a trialkoxysilyl polyethylene glycol acrylate having the following Structure (I): wherein R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl, C1 to C6 alkenyl, C1 to C6 alkoxy, C1 to C6 acyl, C1 to C6 acyloxy, phenyl, halo, or cyano groups, or R1 and R2 together can form a cyclic group, R3 is hydrogen, or a C1 to C6 alkyl, phenyl, halo, or cyano group, R4 and R5 are independently hydrogen or methyl groups, R6 is hydrogen or a C1 to C12 alkyl group, X1 is —O— or —NR— wherein R is hydrogen or an alkyl or aryl group, X2 is —NR′— wherein R′ is hydrogen or an alkyl or aryl group, m is an integer of from 15 to 200, and n is an integer of from 1 to 12. The lithographic printing plates can be negative-working and particularly useful for on-press development and have a sulfuric acid-anodized aluminum support.
US08053158B2 Photosensitive compositions useful for forming active patterns, methods of forming such active patterns and organic memory devices incorporating such active patterns
Disclosed herein are compositions useful in forming organic active patterns that may, in turn, be incorporated in organic memory devices. The compositions comprise N-containing conjugated electroconductive polymer(s), photoacid generator(s) and organic solvent(s) capable of dissolving suitable quantifies of both the electroconductive polymer and the photoacid generator. Also disclosed are methods for patterning organic active layers formed using one or more of the compositions to produce organic active patterns, portions of which may be arranged between opposed electrodes to provide organic memory cells. The methods include directly exposing and developing the organic active layer to obtain fine patterns without the use of a separate masking pattern, for example, a photoresist pattern, thereby tending to simplify the fabrication process and reduce the associated costs.
US08053156B2 Toner, and toner production process
In a chart of molecular weight distribution measured of a toner, i) the toner has a main peak in the region of molecular weight of 16,000 to 60,000, and ii) where the molecular weight at the main peak is represented by M1, and where the height at the molecular weight M1 is represented by H(M1), the height at a molecular weight of 4,000 by H(4000) and the height at a molecular weight of 15,000 by H(15000), the H(4000), the H(15000) and the H(M1) satisfy a specific proportion. The toner has a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 15,000 to 80,000, and, in an endothermic chart, i) the toner has an endothermic main peak in the range of 40 to 130° C., and ii) the calorimetric integral value represented by the peak area of the endothermic main peak is 10 to 35 J per 1 g of the toner.
US08053154B2 Toner and image forming method
A toner for electrostatic charge development is provided where the toner comprises a colorant and a resin and contains an organic boron compound represented by a following chemical formula (A) as a charge controlling agent, further the toner is treated with an inorganic fine particle and at least one of the inorganic particles is a magnesium silicate compound represented by a following general formula [2] is provided. wherein X is an alkali metal, R1, R2, R3 or R4 each represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkoxy group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a halogen atom. MgxSiyO(x+2y)  [2] wherein x and y are integers.
US08053149B2 Method for producing color filter for image sensor
A method for producing a color filter for an image sensor capable of obtaining pixels each constituted substantially into a rectangular shape and having a favorable cross-sectional pattern profile and capable of effectively preventing the deformation of a dye-containing pixel even in a case of conducting post-baking or the like, the production method comprising the processes of coating a dye-containing photo-curable composition on a substrate directly or by way of another layer, then drying to form a coating film, exposing the coating film, putting the exposed coating film to alkali development and irradiating a Ultraviolet radiation to alkali-developed coating film while heating at 20 to 50° C.
US08053143B2 Supported ruthenium cathode catalyst for fuel cell
A cathode catalyst for a fuel cell including a metal selected from the group consisting of In, Ga, and combinations thereof, and Ru—Ch supported on the metal, where Ch includes a material selected from the group consisting of S, Se, Te, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the Ru—Ch includes from about 70 to about 95 atom % of Ru, and from about 5 to about 30 atom % of Ch, and/or the Ru—Ch is supported in an amount from about 5 to about 80 wt % based on the Ru—Ch and the metal.
US08053141B2 Contact plate for fuel cells
The present invention relates to a contact plate for fuel cells with a coherent active area (11) on at least one side of the contact plate, wherein the active area (11) consists of a contact surface (2) which over the whole surface comprises a coating (4) of an electrically conductive, corrosion-resistant material, and of recesses (3) so that the recesses (3) form a channel structure, wherein the coating (4) furthermore at least in the bottom regions (5) of the recesses (3) is omitted. The invention further relates to a corresponding fuel cell or to a fuel cell stack with at least one such contact plate as well as to various methods for manufacturing such contact plates which may serve as bipolar plates as well as monopolar plates or end plates. With the contact plate according to the invention, one achieves an optimally reduced contact resistance with a minimal material expense for the coating (4).
US08053139B2 SOFC thermal management via direct injection
The present invention provides structures and methods that utilize fuel reformation to assist in thermal management of a channel-less SOFC at the device cell and/or stack assembly level. At the device level, passive and/or active control of unreformed fuel, or a mixture of reformed and unreformed fuel, is used to inject fuel in a distributed manner along the anode chamber of the channel-less SOFC. The injected fuel can be controlled in its composition, pressure, velocities, and/or flow rates. Additionally, present invention provides thermal management across a plurality of fuel cells in a stack assembly by actively controlling fuel composition, pressure, velocities, and/or flow rates provided to fuel inlets of the fuel cells.
US08053136B2 SORFC system with non-noble metal electrode compositions
A solid oxide regenerative fuel cell includes a ceramic electrolyte, a first electrode which is adapted to be positively biased when the fuel cell operates in a fuel cell mode and in an electrolysis mode, and a second electrode which is adapted to be negatively biased when the fuel cell operates in the fuel cell mode and in the electrolysis mode. The second electrode comprises less than 1 mg/cm2 of noble metal.
US08053130B2 Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system that includes a liquid fuel tank containing a non-sulfur-containing liquid fuel and water; a reformer generating a hydrogen-rich gas from the liquid fuel and water received from the liquid fuel tank; a reformer burner heating the reformer by burning a gaseous fuel received from a gaseous fuel tank, and a fuel cell stack generating electrical energy from the hydrogen-rich gas received from the reformer. The liquid fuel tank is connected to the gaseous fuel tank, and the liquid fuel mixed with water is supplied to the reformer by the pressure of the gaseous fuel tank.
US08053129B2 Fuel cell system, fuel cell valve system, and fuel cell gas supply device
A fuel cell system includes a first shut valve capable of shutting off a gas flow in a gas path where a fuel cell gas flows; and a second shut valve arranged more towards the downstream side of the gas flow than the first shut valve, and capable of shutting off the gas flow. In each of the first shut valve and the second shut valve, sealing is performed by intimate contact between a movable member and a seal member and a gas pressure supplied from the upstream applies a force to the movable member to bring it into intimate contact with the seal member. A deformation degree by an external force of the same intensity is set greater in the seal member of the second shut valve than in the seal member of the first shut valve.
US08053128B2 Apparatus for solid-oxide fuel cell shutdown having a timing circuit and a reservoir
An emergency shutdown apparatus for a solid-oxide fuel cell system, including a fuel cell stack, comprises a reservoir containing a reducing fluid, a valve enabling or preventing flow of the reducing fluid from the reservoir to the fuel cell stack, a timing circuit operating and controlling the valve, and a battery powering the timing circuit. The apparatus for an emergency system shutdown is able to operate independently of the main power plant and does not require any active control from the solid-oxide fuel cell system. The disclosed apparatus is entirely a stand-alone component that may be added to any conventional solid-oxide fuel cell system. The apparatus in accordance with the invention can be recharged, allowing the same hardware to be used over and over, however, a disposable unit could be used if found to be desirable.
US08053125B2 Fuel cell having buffer and seal for coolant
A first seal member is formed integrally on both surfaces of a first metal plate. The first seal member is integrally formed on a cooling surface of the first metal plate, except a region corresponding to a reaction surface facing an electrode reaction surface, and except regions of inlet buffers and outlet buffers. The first seal member has an expansion. The position of an end surface of the expansion substantially matches the position of a wall surface of the outermost groove of a coolant flow field to prevent the flow of a coolant around the electrode reaction surface.
US08053123B2 Fuel cell system with a scavenging device and AC impedance measuring unit
A fuel cell system includes: an AC impedance measuring unit which measures an AC impedance of a fuel cell at a scavenging start and which measures an AC impedance of the fuel cell at a time when a predetermined time has elapsed from the scavenging start; a scavenging execution time estimation unit which estimates a scavenging execution time based on the AC impedance measured at the scavenging start, the AC impedance measured at the time when the predetermined time has elapsed from the scavenging start, and the predetermined time; and an error processing unit which forcibly terminates scavenging processing if a fuel cell voltage becomes lower than a predetermined threshold value during a period from the scavenging start to the time when the predetermined time has elapsed from the scavenging start.
US08053120B2 Fuel cell system and control method thereof
There are provided a power generation unit, a fuel tank, a line, a mixing tank, a fuel circulation unit which circulates a mixture fuel from the mixing tank to the mixing tank via the power generation unit and the line, a fuel supplier which supplies the fuel from the fuel tank to the mixing tank, an air supplier which supplies air to a cathode, a power adjustment unit which adjusts the current applied to the load in accordance with a generated power output, a fan which adjusts the temperature of the power generator, and a control unit which detects the concentration and volume of the mixture fuel and manipulates, on the basis of a detection result, the fuel circulation unit, the fuel supplier, the load of the power adjustment unit, the air supplier and the fan to control the concentration and volume of the mixture fuel.
US08053118B2 Hydrogen and power generation system and method for shutting down the same
A hydrogen and power generation system includes a reforming device for producing a reformed gas from a reformable raw fuel, a combination fuel cell and ion pump operable selectively in a hydrogen generation mode and an electricity generation mode, a PSA mechanism for removing an unwanted component from the hydrogen produced by the combination fuel cell and ion pump, the PSA mechanism 18 having adsorption towers held in fluid communication with the cathode for receiving hydrogen from the combination fuel cell and ion pump, and a PSA off-gas passage having one end connected to an off-gas outlet of the PSA mechanism and another end connected to a reformed gas passage, which provides fluid communication between a reformed gas outlet of the reforming device and an anode inlet of the combination fuel cell and ion pump.
US08053116B2 Lithium ion-conductive solid electrolyte
Disclosed is a lithium ion-conductive solid electrolyte exhibiting high lithium ion conductivity even at room temperature which is hardly oxidized and free from problems of toxicity and contains as components lithium (Li) element, boron (B) element, sulfur (S) element, and oxygen (O) element, and the ratio between sulfur element and oxygen element (O/S) is 0.01 to 1.43.
US08053113B2 Composite binder containing carbon nanotube and lithium secondary battery employing the same
Provided is a nanocomposite binder for an electrode mix of a secondary battery, comprising carbon nanotubes in a photo- and/or thermo-polymerizable material or polymer, or a mixture thereof; and a lithium secondary battery comprising the same.The carbon nanotube-containing composite binder according to the present invention and a lithium secondary battery comprising the same employs a novel nanocomposite, prepared by combination of carbon nanotubes with a conventional binder material, as a binder of an anode. As a result, the present invention provides advantages such as improved conductivity of the anode due to decreased electrical resistance of the binder, and enhanced mechanical properties of the binder and thereby being capable of preventing the separation of an anode active material layer from a current collector due to volume changes occurring upon charge/discharge cycles.
US08053112B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte battery and method of manufacturing the same
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery includes a positive electrode having a positive electrode active material layer containing a positive electrode active material, a negative electrode having a negative electrode active material, a separator interposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, an electrode assembly comprising the positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the separator, and a non-aqueous electrolyte impregnated in the electrode assembly. The positive electrode active material contains at least cobalt or manganese. The positive electrode has an end-of-charge potential of 4.40 V versus the potential of a lithium reference electrode. The positive electrode active material layer is superficially coated with a polymer layer composed of a polymer having a partially cross-linked structure and a molecular weight of 800,000 or greater.
US08053101B2 Lithium ion rechargeable battery
A lithium ion secondary battery in which an electrode assembly is easily impregnated with an electrolyte is provided. The lithium ion secondary battery includes an electrode assembly wrapped by a sealing tape, an upper insulating plate positioned on the top of the electrode assembly, a lower insulating plate positioned at the bottom of the electrode assembly, a case for accommodating the electrode assembly, and a cap assembly for sealing the case. In one embodiment, the upper insulating plate has holes which may include a form of a mesh. In another embodiment, the lower insulating plate has various shapes of recesses on the surface. The surface of the lower insulating plate may be coated with a material that has an affinity for the electrolyte. An inner surface of the case may have various shapes of recesses or grooves. The sealing tape may be coated with a material that has an affinity for an electrolyte. Therefore, according to the principles of the present invention, the electrode assembly is easily impregnated with the electrolyte, and overall performance of the lithium ion secondary battery is improved.
US08053100B2 Battery unit with cooling device
A battery unit includes a module assembly, a housing that houses the module assembly, and a blower. The module assembly includes a stack of battery modules, and defines a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The blower is disposed at an end of the module assembly. A rotation shaft of the blower is located between a first plane that includes the first surface and a second plane that includes the second surface. The blower is configured to supply air toward the first surface of the module assembly in a direction perpendicular to a stacking direction of the battery modules. The air is supplied over a range that is substantially equal to a dimension of the module assembly in the stacking direction.
US08053095B2 Compound comprising phenyl pyridine units
Compounds of formula I may be used in optoelectronic devices wherein R1 is, independently at each occurrence, a C1-C20 aliphatic radical, a C3-C20 aromatic radical, or a C3-C20 cycloaliphatic radical; a is, independently at each occurrence, an integer ranging from 0-4; b is 0, 1 or 2; Ar1 is a direct bond or heteroaryl, aryl, or alkyl or cycloalkyl; Ar2 is heteroaryl, aryl, or alkyl or cycloalkyl; c is an integer ranging from 1-7; and n is an integer ranging from 2-4.
US08053091B2 Hyperbranched polymer, organic light-emitting diode including organic layer including the hyperbranched polymer, and method of manufacturing the organic light-emitting diode
Provided are a hyperbranched polymer represented by Formula 1 below, an organic light-emitting diode including an organic layer including the hyperbranched polymer, and a method of manufacturing the organic light-emitting diode: For a detailed description about Formula 1, the Detailed Description of the Invention may be referred to. The hyperbranched polymer is excellent in view of hole injection capability and/or electron blocking capability and adhesion with an electrode, and thus, the organic light-emitting diode including the organic layer including the hyperbranched polymer can have good electrical properties.
US08053087B2 Antifriction composite, use of the antifriction composite, and method for producing the antifriction composite
The invention relates to an antifriction composite comprising a metal support layer, an intermediate layer produced from an aluminum alloy and a bearing layer produced from an aluminum alloy. The components of the aluminum alloys of the intermediate layer and the bearing layer are identical except for an additional soft phase portion in the bearing layer. Said soft phase portion may include lead, tin and/or bismuth. The invention also relies to a method for producing the inventive antifriction composite.
US08053084B2 Aqueous coating composition
The present invention provides an aqueous coating composition that can form a coated film having excellent appearance, in which a change in the color of the coating composition during the storage of the coating composition is prevented or suppressed, excellent storage stability is provided, and the generation of popping is prevented or suppressed; and a method for forming a coated film. The aqueous coating composition contains (A1) a film-forming aqueous resin, (B) a dioxazine pigment, (C) a hydrophobic solvent and (D) a resin having an aromatic ring with a nitro group bonded thereto, and a method for forming a coated film using the composition.
US08053074B2 Stretch nonwoven fabric
A stretch nonwoven fabric 10 contains inelastic fibers having a varied thickness along the length and elastic fibers. The nonwoven fabric 10 preferably includes an elastic fiber layer 1 and a substantially inelastic, inelastic fiber layer 2 on at least one side of the elastic fiber layer 1. The fibers with a varied thickness along the length are contained in the inelastic fiber layer 2. The nonwoven fabric 10 is conveniently produced by (a) superposing a web containing low-drawn, inelastic fibers having an elongation of 80% to 800% on at least one side of a web containing elastic fibers, (b) subjecting the webs, while in a non-united state, to through-air technique to obtain a fibrous sheet having the webs united together by thermal bonding the fibers at their intersections, and (c) stretching the fibrous sheet in at least one direction to draw the low-drawn inelastic fibers, followed by releasing the sheet from the stretch.
US08053073B2 Process for producing resin-coated metal particles, resin-coated metal particles, and toner for forming circuit
A process for producing resin-coated metal particles includes coating surfaces of metal particles with silica; allowing a polymerizable group to adsorb onto the surfaces of the silica-coated particles by the use of a silane coupling agent; and coating the surfaces of the silica-coated particles with a polymeric resin by mixing the particles to which the polymerizable groups have been adsorbed, a polymerizable monomer, a polymerization initiator, and a dispersant to polymerize the polymerizable monomer and the polymerizable groups.
US08053070B2 Optical film having graded refractive index and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed are an optical film having a graded refractive index and a method of manufacturing the same. The optical film includes one or more antireflection films composed of a mesoporous material having a plurality of pores of a uniform size, and the pores of the mesoporous material are filled with air or a filler having a refractive index different from that of the mesoporous material, and thus the volume ratio of mesoporous material to filler in the pores thereof is controlled, thereby obtaining a desired magnitude of effective refractive index and ensuring a refractive index distribution in which the refractive indexes sequentially change, resulting in high antireflection performance. The method of manufacturing the optical film may be conducted using a nanowire growing technique, thus making it easy to realize mass production.
US08053069B2 High heat conduction composite material
A composite material being excellent in heat conductivity is provided. In order to realize this, a fibrous carbon material made of fine tube form structures constituted with single-layer or multiple-layer graphene is present to form a plurality of layers within a substrate made from a spark plasma sintered body of a metal powder, a mixed powder of a metal and ceramics, or a ceramic powder. The fibrous carbon material constituting each layer is made of a mixture obtained by mixing a small amount of a small diameter fiber 2 having an average diameter of 100 nm or less with a large diameter fiber 1 having an average diameter of 500 nm to 100 μm.
US08053066B2 Conductive paste and wiring board using same
A conductive paste contains metal powder, an inorganic binder, and an organic vehicle as main ingredients. The organic vehicle includes a solvent having a boiling point of 270° C. or higher, and the proportion of the solvent with respect to the entire solvent included in the organic vehicle is 3 to 100% by weight.
US08053058B2 Spray-coated member having an excellent resistance to plasma erosion and method of producing the same
A spray coated member having an excellent resistance to plasma erosion is produced by irradiating an electron beam to an outermost surface layer portion of a ceramic spray coated portion covering a surface of a substrate to form an electron beam irradiated layer.
US08053056B2 Stretch film and method for producing a stretch film
A stretch film for the packing of goods, particularly for the packing of goods stacked on a pallet, comprises a prestretched main film (10). The main film (10) is reinforced by reinforcement strips (12) extending in the longitudinal direction. The reinforcement strips (12) are made from film strips of prestretched film which have been folded a plurality of times in the longitudinal direction. Between two adjacent reinforcement strips (12), the main film (10) can comprise two mutually staggered rows of holes (16,18). This stretch film with perforations (14) is particularly useful for the packing of food items.
US08053052B2 Adhesive laminates for rapid wound occlusion
Provided herein are protective laminate devices comprising a biocompatible non-adherent substance and a fast-setting adhesive and methods of use. Also provided is a dispenser for an adhesive tape. The protective laminate devices and methods may be used for wound closure.
US08053050B2 Article comprising light absorbent composition to mask visual haze and related methods
A transparent article includes a continuous polyester matrix having at least one incompatible filler dispersed therein. The incompatible filler provides domains in the polyester matrix, each domain having a particular dimension, thus providing a range of dimensions for the domains in the article. To create haze, the dimensions are within the range of from about 380 nm to about 720 nm. Once the range of dimensions is determined, a light absorbent composition can be found which absorbs light at a range of wavelengths that at least substantially covers the range of dimensions of the domains. In doing so, it has been found that the haze of the article can be substantially masked. Method for producing the article and for masking the haze are also provided.
US08053049B2 Packaging for insulation products
A packaged insulation product is provided comprising at least one insulation product oriented for storage or transportation and disposed in a package, wherein the package comprises a vapor-permeable membrane.
US08053048B2 Overpouch film and container and method of making same
A polymer blend comprising a high density polyethylene and a surface enhancing polymer is provided. The surface enhancing polymer may be an elastomer such as an ethylene propylene diene monomer terpolymer. The polymer blend may be fabricated into articles such as a film or a flexible overpouch for storing, and transporting medical components. Overpouch films made from the blend advantageously do not wrinkle or deform medical components contained therein when the overpouch—medical component combination is autoclaved.
US08053046B2 Ink for inkjet printing, ink set for inkjet printing, inkjet recording material and producing method for inkjet recording material, and inkjet recording method
At least one of an ink for inkjet printing and an inkjet recording material contains a compound represented by formula (A): wherein R1, R2 and R3 each represents an alkyl group, an aryl group or a heterocyclic group, and at least two of R1, R2 and R3 are mutually connected to form a cyclic structure; L represents a divalent connecting group; and at least one of R1, R2, R3 and L is a group having 8 or more carbon atoms.
US08053045B2 Styrene-butadiene latex binder for ink-jet paper, preparation method thereof and coating liquid containing the same
The present invention relates to a styrene-butadiene latex, a preparation method thereof and a coating liquid containing the same, more precisely a styrene-butadiene latex binder for ink-jet paper containing ethylenically unsaturated monomer by 0.1-1.5 weight parts with lowering surface negative charge density, a preparation method thereof and a coating liquid containing the same. The present invention provides a coating liquid for ink-jet paper having excellent price competitiveness and coating work-ability and at the same time reducing energy cost for drying process and thereby provides an ink-jet paper with excellent printing quality.
US08053044B2 Media for inkjet web press printing
A print media for inkjet web-press printing includes a paper base and a porous surface treatment. The porous surface treatment layer includes an inorganic pigment; at least one water-soluble and/or water-dispersible polymeric carrier; and at least one fixer. The fixer is a metal salt. A method of making print media is also disclosed.
US08053037B2 Device and method for patterning structures on a substrate
A device for patterning structures on a substrate includes an imaging device having a scanning tip, a light emitting device, and a space around the scanning tip. The space comprises a vapor of a material which is suitable for Chemical Vapor Deposition onto the substrate when decomposed. The light emitting device is adapted to emit a light beam, which has an intensity not capable to decompose the vapor, onto the scanning tip in such a way that an electromagnetic field induced by the light beam near the scanning tip is high enough to decompose the vapor.
US08053024B2 Method for manufacturing organic electroluminescent device
Disclosed is an organic EL device having high external quantum efficiency, long emission life and low driving voltage. Also disclosed are an illuminating device and a display. Specifically disclosed is an organic electroluminescent device comprising, on a supporting substrate, at least an anode, a cathode and an organic compound layer which is arranged between the anode and the cathode and includes at least one light-emitting layer. This electroluminescent device is characterized in that the anode, cathode and organic compound layer are respectively formed by coating.
US08053022B2 Coatable conductive layer
The invention relates to a patternable coatable electrically conductive layer comprising a fluid-coated electrically conductive material, wherein the fluid-coated electrically conductive material has sufficient conductivity to induce an electric field strong enough to change the optical state of a light modulating material and a display comprising a substrate, at least one patternable coatable electrically conductive layer comprising a fluid-coated electrically conductive material, wherein said fluid coated electrically conductive material has sufficient conductivity to induce an electric field strong enough to change the optical state of a light modulating material which has a first and a second field-switched stable optical state, and an imaging layer comprising said light modulating material disposed over said at least one patternable fluid-coated electrically conductive layer. The invention also relates to a method for making a coatable electrically conductive layer and a method for making a display with a coatable electrically conductive layer.
US08053021B2 Coating apparatus and operating method thereof
A coating apparatus and an operating method thereof that prevent damage to the nozzle of a spinless coater from impurities on a substrate during resin coating of the substrate, and impurities remaining on a stage at the bottom of the substrate. The coating apparatus comprises a stage, a nozzle, a nozzle cleaner, and a stage cleaner. A substrate is placed upon the stage. The nozzle discharges resin on the substrate to perform coating. The nozzle cleaner cleans the nozzle. The stage cleaner cleans the stage. The operating method includes removing a coated first substrate from atop a stage, cleaning the stage using a stage cleaner, introducing a second substrate to be coated onto the cleaned stage, and discharging resin through a nozzle onto the second substrate and coating the second substrate.
US08053016B2 Agglutinant compound and agglutinated product for reconstituting powders of vegetal origin
An agglutinant compound and agglutinated product for reconstituting powders of vegetal origin, that allow employing a lamination or similar process, being said agglutinated product comprised of agglutinant compound and a vegetal mass formed by the powder of vegetal origin, that may range from 5-50% (mass/mass, regarding the powder mass used), with drying temperature ranging between 100-400° C., thickness between 0.05-2.50 mm and vegetal film humidity between 8 and 20%; being said agglutinant compound formed only by a mixture of polymers of hydroxylated organic acids, such as lactic acid and malic acid, and it may contain agents improving its agglutinant and sensorial properties.
US08053014B2 Liquid seasoning
The present invention is a liquid seasoning containing the following (A), (B), and (C): (A) 0.4 to 8% by mass of sodium (B) 0.01 to 4% by mass of flavonoid (C) 1 to 10% by mass of ethanol wherein, the flavonoid (B) satisfies the formula (1) and/or has one or more OH groups on the A-ring or B-ring in a molecule and no OH group at the position adjacent to the OH group (ortho position). Y/(X+Y)=0.05 to 1  formula (1) wherein, X and Y represent the following numbers, respectively: X; the number of OH group bonded to benzene rings in a molecule of the flavonoid, Y; the number of OCH3 group bonded to benzene rings in a molecule of the flavonoid.
US08053012B2 Methods and apparatuses for obtaining beverages
An apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage inducing the passage of an extraction fluid through a dose of coffee by heating said fluid, contains a separating device arranged to separate a fraction of said beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of said fluid from a further fraction of said beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of said fluid; an apparatus for preparing a coffee beverage by imbibing a dose of coffee with an extraction fluid driven by heating through said dose, comprises an inhibition device arranged to inhibit said imbibing when said fluid contains a substantial steam phase; a method for obtaining a coffee beverage involves heating an extraction fluid so as to induce the passage of said extraction fluid through a dose of coffee to obtain said beverage and separating a fraction of said beverage obtained with a prevalently liquid phase of said extraction fluid from a further fraction of said beverage obtained with a prevalently steam phase of said extraction fluid is provided for.
US08053011B1 Device and method of making a cake
A device and method of making a cake includes a base wall and a cake form that has a size and shape for receiving the base wall. The cake form includes an outer wall having a shape corresponding to an outer perimeter of the base wall. A bottom edge of the outer wall has a peripheral flange attached thereto. The base wall is positioned into the cake form. Each of a plurality of ring portions is attached to the cake form. A lifting member includes a hand grip and a plurality of tines each having a first end attached to the hand grip and a second end comprising a hook. Each of the ring portions is simultaneously engaged by one of the hooks and the cake form lifted with the hand grip to lift the cake form from a cake after it has been formed in the cake form.
US08053005B2 Composition for controlling the respiratory effect of inhaled pollutants and allergens
An oil-based composition for application to mucosal surfaces of the human body provides potent activators of cytoprotective antioxidants. The composition includes the following ingredients: soy oil; coconut oil; orange oil; peppermint oil; aloe vera oil; vitamin E; and may further include jojoba and a preservative. Application of the composition increases expression of antioxidant genes and inhibits proinflammatory action caused by exposure to oxidant pollutants, allergens and other cytotoxins.
US08053002B2 Medicinal herbal composition for treating infection
Herbal compositions derived from Kenyan plants are provided for the treatment of HIV and other infectious diseases. The herbal compositions can include the extracts of up to 14 plants, including the root of Dovyalis abyssinica and Clutia robusta. Also provided are methods for extracting alkaloids and other compounds from the plants. Also provided are methods of treating a subject having an infectious disease, particularly HIV.
US08053001B2 Herbal mixture extract of Rehmanniae radix preparata and Acanthopanacis cortex and a composition comprising the same for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis
The present invention relates to a herbal mixture extract of Rehmanniae Radix Preparata and Acanthopanacis Cortex and a composition comprising the same for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. The herbal mixture extract of the present invention enhances the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) in osteoblasts and effectively inhibits the generation and activation of osteoclasts, so that it can be effectively used for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
US08052992B2 Glycerophospholipids containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and their use in the treatment and improvement of cognitive functions
Disclosed herein is a lipid preparation, said preparation comprising a phosphatidylserine moiety, and poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) acyl groups, particularly long-chain poly-unsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) acyl groups such as omega-3 and/or omega-6 acyl groups, wherein said PUFA is covalently bound to said glycerophospholipid. Said lipid preparations are particularly useful in the treatment of mental and cognitive disorders, e.g. ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and Alzheimer's disease.The disclosed preparations present improved bioactivity, and are useful in the treatment of various cognitive and mental conditions and disorders, as well as for maintenance of normal functions of brain-related systems and processes.
US08052991B2 Method of preparing an unsaturated fatty acid dry concentrate
There is provided a method of preparing an unsaturated fatty acid dry concentrate, wherein a substance comprising at least one unsaturated fatty acid is applied on a biologically inert matrix having a large surface area and is subsequently dried, as well as a composition comprising at least one unsaturated fatty acid and foods, beverages, drugs comprising this composition.
US08052989B2 Method of incorporating carbon nanotubes in a medical appliance, a carbon nanotube medical appliance, and a medical appliance coated using carbon nanotube technology
A method of coating a medical device, such as a stent or balloon. The method comprises assembling an array of vertically-oriented carbon nanotubes on a surface of the medical device and contacting the array of carbon nanotubes with a liquid. The liquid is evaporated to form a cellular foam made of carbon nanotubes. The liquid may contain a bioactive agent. Also described are medical devices having a coating of cellular foam that is made of carbon nanotubes.
US08052984B2 Increased effectiveness of allylamine drug compounds for topical treatment of fungal infections of the skin and skin appendages
The invention is an increased effectiveness of allylamine drug compounds for topical treatment of fungal infections of skin and skin appendages. The allylamine active ingredient is prepared in an acidic environment; the acidic environment altering the physiochemical properties of the active ingredient resulting in the active ingredient having a positive charge. The positive charge and enhancers used in the formula allow for increased penetration of the active ingredient through skin and skin appendages. The positively charged active ingredients are either dissolved in the vehicle directly or dissolved in a plurality of beads suspended in the vehicle. The bead structure minimizes the molecular diffusion of the positively charged active ingredient and a catalytic species through the bead structure, thus stabilizes the positively charged active ingredient inside the bead by impeding the interaction of the positively charged active ingredient and the catalytic species, and thereby extending the shelf life of the positively charged active ingredient.
US08052983B2 Methods of treating acne
A method of treating acne in a human in need thereof comprising administering systemically to said human a tetracycline compound in an amount that is effective to treat acne but has substantially no antibiotic activity, without administering a bisphosphonate compound.
US08052978B2 Vaccine composition against Rhodococcus equi
A method for preparing a soluble antigenic extract from Rhodococcus equi is disclosed. The method includes a step of solubilizing membranes of said bacteria by contacting said bacteria with an extraction solution containing a nonionic detergent of sorbitan polyethylene fatty acid ester type. Also disclosed is a soluble antigenic extract obtainable by said preparation method, said extract including membrane antigens of Rhodococcus equi dissolved in the extraction solution. Finally, a composition including the soluble antigenic extract as a medicine is disclosed, including preferably a nanoparticulate or oil-in-water emulsion type adjuvant, and the use of the soluble antigenic extract for preparing a pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating a Rhodococcus equi-induced infection in an animal.
US08052976B2 Growth factor homolog ZVEGF3
Polypeptide growth factors, methods of making them, polynucleotides encoding them, antibodies to them, and methods of using them are disclosed. The polypeptides comprise an amino acid segment that is at least 90% identical to residues 46-163 of SEQ ID NO:2 or residues 235-345 of SEQ ID NO:2. Multimers of the polypeptides are also disclosed. The polypeptides, multimeric proteins, and polynucleotides can be used in the study and regulation of cell and tissue development, as components of cell culture media, and as diagnostic agents.
US08052968B2 Modified vaccinia virus strains for use in diagnostic and therapeutic methods
Modified viruses and methods for preparing the modified viruses are provided. Vaccines that contain the viruses are provided. The viruses can be used in methods of treatment of diseases, such as proliferative and inflammatory disorders, including as anti-tumor agents. The viruses also can be used in diagnostic methods.
US08052967B2 Stable adenoviral vectors and methods for propagation thereof
Provided are methods and means to increase the stability and/or the packaging capacity of recombinant adenoviruses, by overexpression of pIX in an adenoviral packaging cell, by retaining at least a part of the E1B-55K region in the recombinant adenoviral vector or by regulating pIX with a heterologous promoter. The invention further relates to methods and means for the production of such adenoviruses on complementing cell lines, wherein the early region 4 open reading frame 6 (E4-orf6) encoding nucleic acid is present in the adenovirus and wherein the E4-orf6 gene product is compatible with one or more products of the E1 gene products in the complementing cell, such that the adenoviral vector can be efficiently produced by the complementing cell.
US08052963B2 [(4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl)hydroxymethyl]- or [(4-oxo-4H-chromen-3-yl)methyl]phosphonic acid derivatives
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula (I), where R1 to R3 each, independently of one another, denote H, hydroxyl or alkoxy having 1 to 8 C atoms, R4 denotes alkyl having 1 to 4 C atoms, H, hydroxyl or alkoxy having 1 to 8 C atoms, R5 denotes H or hydroxyl, and R6 denotes H or alkyl having 1 to 18 C atoms, or salts thereof, but where all R1 to R4 together cannot be equal to H, to compositions, and to the preparation and use thereof.
US08052961B2 Highly fluorinated β-amino acids and methods of making and using same
Disclosed are compounds having the structure: wherein R1a and R1b are independently H, alkyl, F, or fluoroalkyl; wherein R2a, R2b, R2a′, and R2b′ are independently H, alkyl, F, fluoroalkyl, aryl, or alkenyl; wherein R3 is OH, alkoxyl, NH2, alkylamino, or dialkylamino; wherein R4a and R4b are independently H, alkyl, acyl, or alkyloxycarbonyl; wherein R11, R12, R13, R21, R22, and R23 are independently H, alkyl, F, or fluoroalkyl; and wherein C0, C1, C2 and C2′ are independently chiral or achiral. Also disclosed are processes for making a fluorinated β-amino acid comprising the steps of: providing a diol; treating the diol with a thionyl halide with oxidative workup; reacting the product with an azide salt to yield an azido group; oxidizing the product to yield a carboxyl group; and reducing the azido group to yield an amino group.
US08052959B2 Hydrogen supply device and method of supplying hydrogen
A hydrogen supply device and a method of supplying hydrogen are provided in which a hydrogen gas odorized with the odor agent is supplied by applying heat to a granular mixture of hydrogen storage glass beads and odor agent encapsulating capsules using irradiation with infrared light emitted from a light source.
US08052954B2 Barium calcium titanate, production process thereof and capacitor
A barium calcium titanate of the present invention has a remarkable effect that a fine barium calcium titanate powder having excellent dispersibility, reduced impurities and high crystallinity and being solid-dissolved at an arbitrary ratio, and a production process thereof are provided.The barium calcium titanate represented by the compositional formula: (Ba(1-X)CaX)YTiO3 (wherein 0
US08052952B2 Composite and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a nanotube-polymer composite which can effectively utilize characteristics of a carbon nanotube structure. The composite includes a carbon nanotube structure and a polymer, in which: the carbon nanotube structure has a network structure constructed by mutually cross-linking functional groups bonded to multiple carbon nanotubes through chemical bonding of the functional groups together; and the polymer is filled in the network structure. Also provided is a method of manufacturing a composite which includes the steps of: supplying a base body surface with a solution containing multiple carbon nanotubes to which multiple functional groups are bonded; mutually cross-linking the multiple carbon nanotubes through chemical bonding of the multiple functional groups together to construct a network structure constituting a carbon nanotube structure; impregnating the network structure with a polymer liquid forming a polymer; and combining the carbon nanotube structure and the polymer by curing the polymer liquid.
US08052951B2 Carbon nanotubes grown on bulk materials and methods for fabrication
Disclosed are structures formed as bulk support media having carbon nanotubes formed therewith. The bulk support media may comprise fibers or particles and the fibers or particles may be formed from such materials as quartz, carbon, or activated carbon. Metal catalyst species are formed adjacent the surfaces of the bulk support material, and carbon nanotubes are grown adjacent the surfaces of the metal catalyst species. Methods employ metal salt solutions that may comprise iron salts such as iron chloride, aluminum salts such as aluminum chloride, or nickel salts such as nickel chloride. Carbon nanotubes may be separated from the carbon-based bulk support media and the metal catalyst species by using concentrated acids to oxidize the carbon-based bulk support media and the metal catalyst species.
US08052950B2 Multi-compartment overfire air and N-agent injection method for nitrogen oxide reduction in flue gas
A method of decreasing a concentration of nitrogen oxides in a combustion gas flowing through a vessel including: generating a flue gas in a combustion zone of the vessel, the flue gas containing nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide; providing overfire air into a burnout zone of the vessel from a first injector of overfire air to oxidize at least some of the carbon monoxide in the flue gas; injecting a selective reducing agent concurrent with overfire air at a level in the burnout zone downstream of the first injector of overfire air and downstream of the oxidization of the carbon monoxide, and reacting the selective reducing agent with the flue gas to reduce the nitrogen oxides.
US08052945B2 Apparatus for oligomerization in multiple stages with single fractionation column
In an oligomerization apparatus comprising at least two oligomerization reactors, at least portions of product streams from two reactors are separated in the same separator vessel; a liquid product stream from the first oligomerization reactor is fed to a fractionation column and a side cut from the fractionation column feeds the second oligomerization reactor.
US08052943B2 Biosensor cartridge
A compact biosensor cartridge in which biosensors can be set with simple operation so that they can be tested one by one, and which protects the biosensors from moisture until they are set. A biosensor dispensing device is also disclosed. A biosensor cartridge (6) to be installed in a biosensor dispensing device (1) includes a pushing member (31) and a pushing rotating member (34) both used for ejecting biosensors (10) stacked in a case one by one and ejecting each sensor (10) through a sensor ejecting port (26). This structure presents the biosensor cartridge (6) to be made small and thin.
US08052942B2 Analytical tool cartridge with retrieval mechanism, and set of the cartridge and analyzer
The present invention relates to an analytical tool cartridge comprising a case having therein a storage space and a retrieval port that communicates the storage space with an external space, and a plurality of analytical tools stored in the storage space in a stacked state. This analytical tool cartridge further has a retrieval mechanism for retrieving the analytical tools one at a time from the case via the retrieval port. The analytical tool cartridge may also further have an opening/closing mechanism for opening and closing the retrieval port. The present invention also provides a set of the analytical tool cartridge, and an analyzer that is constituted so as to have installed therein an analytical tool retrieved from the analytical tool cartridge, and analyze a specific component in a specimen liquid supplied onto the analytical tool. At least one of the analytical tool cartridge and the analyzer has provided therein cartridge fixing means for locating and fixing the analytical tool cartridge onto the analyzer.
US08052938B2 Aromatics co-production in a methanol-to-propylene unit
The present invention provides a reactor system having: (1) a first reactor receiving an oxygenate component and a hydrocarbon component and capable of converting the oxygenate component into a light olefin and the hydrocarbon component into alkyl aromatic compounds; (2) a separator system for providing a first product stream containing a C3 olefin, a second stream containing a C7 aromatic, and a third stream containing C8 aromatic compounds; (3) a first line connecting the separator to the inlet of the first reactor for conveying the second stream to the first reactor; (4) a second line in fluid communication with the separator system for conveying the C3 olefin to a propylene recovery unit, and (4) a third line in fluid communication with the separator system for conveying the C8 aromatic compounds to a xylene recovery unit.
US08052935B2 System and method for removing sulfur from gas stream
A system for removing sulfur from a gaseous stream includes (a) a reaction bed for receiving the gaseous stream and for reacting sulfur dioxide and at least some of the hydrogen sulfide of the gaseous stream into elemental sulfur to provide an elemental sulfur stream and a first product stream; and (b) a circulating fluidized bed comprising (i) a first region for receiving the first product stream and using a sulfur adsorption material to adsorb and remove any remaining hydrogen sulfide from the first product stream to generate saturated sulfur adsorption material and a second product stream substantially free of sulfur; and (ii) a second region for receiving a regeneration stream and for using the regeneration stream to regenerate the saturated sulfur adsorption material and to generate the sulfur dioxide.
US08052934B2 Scent delivery device
The scent delivery device employs a housing and scent generator which selectively releases scent. The housing is mounted on a counter and allows a user to selectively sample a variety of scent. The scent travels to the user's nose by diffusion.
US08052929B2 Gravity-assisted mixing methods
A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector.
US08052925B2 Low carbon resulfurized free-machining steel having high machinability
A low carbon resulfurized free-machining steel having a high machinability is provided. This steel comprises 0.02 to 0.15% by mass of C, up to 0.004% by mass (more than 0% by mass) of Si, 0.6 to 3% by mass of Mn, 0.02 to 0.2% by mass of P, 0.2 to 1% by mass of S, up to 0.005% by mass (more than 0%) of Al, 0.008 to 0.04% by mass of O, and 0.002 to 0.03% by mass of N; and the average oxygen concentration in the MnS in the steel is at least 0.4% by mass.
US08052921B2 Apparatus for manufacturing molten irons
An apparatus for manufacturing molten iron includes i) at least one fluidized-bed reduction reactor that reduces and plasticizes iron ore and converts the iron ore into reduced materials, ii) a melter-gasifier into which the reduced ore is charged and oxygen is injected, the melter-gasifier manufacturing molten iron, and iii) a reducing gas supply line that supplies a reducing gas discharged from the melter-gasifier to the fluidized-bed reduction reactor. The fluidized-bed reduction reactor includes a cyclone that is installed in the fluidized-bed reduction reactor to collect fine iron ore. A gas injector, which prevents the fine ore from adhering by injecting gas containing carbon, is connected to the cyclone.
US08052920B2 Apparatus for observing interior of a blast furnace system
An apparatus for observing the interior of a blast furnace system includes a visible light guiding unit which defines a light path along a viewing axis that is radial to an upright axis of a furnace wall body of a blast furnace and which is adapted to be secured to a furnace blowpipe to permit the light path to be in visual communication with a tuyere, a beam splitter which is disposed in an accommodation space in the tubular mount to split a beam of light propagating along the light path into a horizontal component so that the operator can observe furnace condition through a peeping hole, and a vertical component, and a video camera system which includes an elongate casing connected to the tubular mount, and a video camera disposed in a cooling chamber of the casing to capture a light image from the vertical component of the light beam.
US08052917B2 Process to make an article comprising light absorbent composition to mask visual haze and related methods
A transparent article includes a continuous polyester matrix having at least one incompatible filler dispersed therein. The incompatible filler provides domains in the polyester matrix, each domain having a particular dimension, thus providing a range of dimensions for the domains in the article. To create haze, the dimensions are within the range of from about 380 nm to about 720 nm. Once the range of dimensions is determined, a light absorbent composition can be found which absorbs light at a range of wavelengths that at least substantially covers the range of dimensions of the domains. In doing so, it has been found that the haze of the article can be substantially masked. Method for producing the article and for masking the haze are also provided.
US08052915B2 Apparatus for forming an extrusion blow molded vessel with insert and method
An apparatus and method of forming a vessel is disclosed, wherein a plurality of bosses are disposed in a pattern die having a die cavity with a desired shape, a material is extruded through the mold, the material is blow molded to take the shape of the cavity, and the bosses are adhered to the material.
US08052912B2 Temperature controlled crimping
This disclosure describes a method for crimping a polymeric stent onto a catheter for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or other intraluminal interventions. The method comprises crimping the stent onto a catheter when the polymer is at a target temperature other than ambient temperature. The polymer can optionally comprise drug(s).
US08052909B2 Injection moulding process
Method for molding a multi-component manufactured product through injection of plastic materials in a mold comprising on the inside one or more movable parts, characterized in that the movable parts are moved into a first configuration in which at least two distinct mold cavities are made in the mold, plastic material is injected into each of the two distinct mold cavities to form two components of the manufactured product, the movable parts are moved into a second configuration, in which they make at least a third cavity in the mold the walls of which at least partially consist of the two components already injected, plastic material is injected into the third mold cavity to form a third component of the manufactured product that is thus welded to the first two.
US08052906B2 Polyamide yarn process
A process for making a synthetic melt spun polyamide filament in a solid phase polycondensation apparatus is disclosed. The flow rate of the purge (make-up) gas to the apparatus is increased, and the overall pressure in the apparatus is decreased, as compared to solid phase polycondensation apparatus of the prior art. As a result, the removal of the thermal degradation impurity from the polymer flake contributes to improving the yarn quality and at the same time, extends the spinneret wipe life.
US08052905B2 Process for the preparation of polymer yarns from ultra high molecular weight homopolymers or copolymers, polymer yarns, molded polymer parts, and the use of polymer yarns
A process for the preparation of polymer yarns from ultra high molecular weight homopolymers or copolymers, wherein the process includes the following steps: (a) preparing a suspension of a homopolymer or copolymer and a spinning or gelling solvent of a non polar nature at a weight of homopolymer or copolymer to solvent ratio from 2/98 to 30/70, wherein said ultra high molecular weight homopolymer or copolymer is reactor bimodal or multimodal; (b) feeding said homopolymer or copolymer suspension to an extruder; (c) extruding said suspension under gel forming conditions, at a temperature in excess of 150° C., and under inert conditions; (d) spinning the gel obtained from the extrusion so as to obtain non-stretched filaments with diameters of at least 1 mm, at a temperature in excess of 150° C., while maintaining the inert conditions; (e) cooling the non-stretched filament bundles; (f) treating said non-stretched yarn with a second extraction solvent; (g) drying the non-stretched yarn and (h) stretching the dry yarn.
US08052904B2 Process for forming containers, which comprises a step of flushing the internal volume of the container of variable duration over at least one given compensation time
Process for forming containers from a blank, preferably a preform, made of a thermoplastic, the containers being formed using a stretch-blow moulding machine of rotary type having a blow-moulding mould mounted on the periphery of a carousel rotated continuously about its axis, the blow-moulding mould operating in cyclic manner according to a blow-moulding cycle having the following steps: placing a preheated blank in a blow-moulding mould; closing the blow-moulding mould; blowing the blank in the blow-moulding mould; flushing the inside of the container with a cooling gas, by injecting air thereinto; grasping the blow-moulded container by external gripping means; and opening the blow-moulding mould, which process includes automatically varying the duration of the flushing step at each start of production of the containers, in a temporary and evolving manner for a few minutes to establish in the containers thermal conditions enabling the first containers to be formed at a temperature that gives them a final volume corresponding to the final volume of the containers formed during the stead-state operation of the stretch-blow moulding machine.
US08052900B2 Reactive UV absorber, UV-screen film-forming curable coating solution, UV-screen film, and substrate having UV-screening function
A mixture of a benzophenone derivative having hydroxyl and alkoxysilyl groups and a benzophenone derivative having silyloxy and alkoxysilyl groups provides a reactive UV absorber which is unlikely to gel, stable during shelf storage, and curable. A coating solution comprising the UV absorber cures at room temperature to form a UV-screening film which has adhesion to glass and plastic substrates, scratch resistance, and bleed resistance, and maintains a UV-screening function over time.
US08052889B2 Etchant composition, and methods of patterning conductive layer and manufacturing flat panel display device using the same
An etchant composition, and methods of patterning a conductive layer and manufacturing a flat panel display device using the same are provided. The etchant composition may include phosphoric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid, water and an additive, wherein the additive includes a chlorine-based compound, a nitrate-based compound, and an oxidation regulator. In addition, the flat panel display device may be manufactured by patterning a gate electrode, source/drain electrodes and a pixel electrode using the same etchant composition. The gate electrode, source/drain electrodes and the pixel electrode may be formed of different conductive materials. Accordingly, processes are simplified so that manufacturing costs may be reduced and productivity may be improved.
US08052881B2 Method of manufacturing multilayer printed circuit board having buried holes
A method for manufacturing a multilayer printed circuit board includes the following steps. A number of laminate units are provided. Each of the laminate units includes an electrically conductive layer with a circuit pattern defined therein, and a release layer releasably attached to the electrically conductive layer. A number of insulation layers are provided. Each of the insulation layers definies a metalized through hole therein. The electrically conductive layers and the insulation layers are stacked alternately one on another such that adjacent electrically conductive layers are insulated by one insulation layer and the metalized through holes electrically connects the circuit patterns of the adjacent electrically conductive layers. In the stacking step, the release layer is removed from the laminate unit after the electrically conductive layer is stacked onto the respective insulation layer, thereby obtaining a pre-laminated multilayer printed circuit board. The stacked electrically conductive layers and the insulation layers are laminated together to achieve a multilayer printed circuit board.
US08052876B2 Process for treating effluents from the oil industry for discharge or reutilization
A process is described for treating effluents from oil production units for discharge or reutilization, to remove oil and other soluble toxic contaminants such as sulphides, benzenes, toluenes, xylenes and polyaromatic hydrocarbons, before discharging or reusing this effluent, especially in an offshore environment. This process for effluent treatment includes a step of changing the thermodynamic equilibrium conditions of an oil-in-water emulsion, followed by a step of separating the oil and the water, to be carried out in an offshore oil production unit.
US08052874B2 Method using membrane bioreactor with reduced air scour requirements
In a sewage treatment plant with a membrane bioreactor (MBR), raw untreated or partially treated wastewater (influent) and/or mixed liquor in the intensified process is superoxygenated. In a preferred form of the process the influent is superoxygenated such that membrane air scouring requirements are reduced. Influent may be fed to a swing zone where denitrification and nitrification occur simultaneously through process control. In one embodiment superoxygenation is conducted in an internal recycle stream of the mixed liquor, with oxygen content supersaturated preferably to over 300 parts per million. Due to the active evolution of oxygen gas from the supersaturated stream, occurring preferably by seeding the supersaturated stream with air bubbles, the supersaturated oxygen can serve the dual purposes of meeting process oxygen demands and providing part of air scouring requirements for the membranes.
US08052873B1 Bacterial cultivation system for growth of substrate specific micro-organisms for use in industrial wastewater remediation
A waste treatment method includes the concentration of selected strains of bacteria in a selected medium in the presence of nutrients and water, under aerobic conditions. This concentrated batch is thereafter discharged for downstream applications in wastewater remediation. The present invention employs a cultivation chamber having inlet ports and a circular vent port that allows for adequate air introduction and heat release. Aeration is achieved by recirculation of the fluid medium from the top of the apparatus through a pipe that runs the length of the inner wall and is specially configured at the top to minimize cell damage. Fluid can be routed tangentially in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions within the chamber. The conical bottom also has an orifice allowing for recirculation of the fluid medium tangentially to the sidewalls. Upon completion of the batch cultivation, the medium and bacteria are discharged for downstream applications in wastewater remediation of paper mill, chemical plant, oil refinery, and other industrial effluents. The aeration and circulation of the fluids is designed to limit cells shearing and damage yet achieve critical cell mass (e.g. between 107 and 1010 cfu (colony forming units) per milliliter (ml)) and dissolved oxygen uptake rates (e.g. between about 50 and 1500) during cultivation.
US08052867B2 Dual media fluid filter
A filter apparatus has a housing, an inlet port on one side of the housing and an outlet port on an opposed side of the housing. Sheet media is disposed in the housing having a first opening through the sheet media. Also dispersed in the housing is a bag media comprising an enclosed bag with a second opening into the bag. The first opening and the second opening are connected in fluid communication with each other and the sheet media is disposed before the bag media in the direction of flow through the housing so that both media are mounted inside the housing. Some fluid entering the inlet passes through both openings and through the bag media and into the outlet, and other fluid entering the inlet passes through the sheet media and then to the outlet.
US08052865B2 Residential reverse osmosis system
Some embodiments of the present invention relate to a reverse osmosis (RO) system that includes a housing and a pre-filter within the housing such that feed water flows into the housing and enters the pre-filter. The reverse osmosis (RO) system further includes a membrane element within the housing such that the pre-filtered water flows from the pre-filter and enters the membrane element and permeate exits the membrane element through the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes a first end cap at one end and a second end cap at an opposing end such that feed water flows through the first end cap into the pre-filter and pre-filtered water flows from the pre-filter into the first end cap. In addition, the pre-filtered water may flow from the first end cap to the membrane element such that permeate exits the membrane element through the first end cap in order exit the housing.
US08052861B2 Electrolytic etching method and method of producing a solar battery
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for partial etching or pattern etching using an electrolysis reaction, wherein, conventionally, there was the problem that an etching line could not be finely formed on a cell edge because of apparatus problems concerning alignment accuracy. The present invention provides a method and apparatus with which fine line etching is possible and which can form a line on a cell edge.Provided is a an electrolytic etching method of a substrate which is formed having a subject etching layer on a surface, having the steps of providing a fixed gap from a substrate end surface which is external to an end surface of the substrate for placing a working part of a working electrode and passing current between the substrate and the working electrode.
US08052856B2 Support for capillaries, case for constraining capillaries including the same
A support for capillaries comprises a ceramic member having a flat surface area on which the capillaries are to be aligned. The flat surface area has a flatness of not more than 0.02 mm and has a mean spacing of waviness motifs (AW) of not more than 100 μm.
US08052855B2 Carbon nanotube gas sensor and method of manufacturing the same
A carbon nanotube (“CNT”) gas sensor includes a substrate, an insulating layer formed on the substrate, electrodes formed on the insulating layer, and CNT barriers that protrude higher than the electrodes in spaces between the electrodes to form gas detecting spaces. A method of manufacturing the gas sensor includes forming an insulating layer on a substrate, forming an electrode pattern on the insulating layer, coating CNT paste having a thickness greater than a thickness of electrodes in the electrode pattern on the electrodes and the insulating layer, and patterning and firing the carbon nanotube paste, including using a photolithography method, to retain only portions of the CNT paste coated on spaces between the electrodes.
US08052849B2 Multi-phasic nanoparticles
A method of forming mufti-phasic nano-objects involves the jetting of two or more different liquids in side-by-side capillaries thereby generating a composite liquid stream. The composite then exposed to a force field which causes the composite liquid stream to at least partially solidify into a nano-object. The method forms a nano-object having a number of morphologies such as rods, spheres, and fibers.
US08052847B2 System and method for removing moisture from liquid desiccant
A system and method for removing water from a liquid desiccant such as a glycol used to dry cooled air in order to restore the desiccant to a purity up to around 97% in a closed continuous flow process. Liquid desiccant can be sprayed into cooled air in a conditioner where it gains moisture. The wet or gained desiccant can be optionally preheated in an economizing heat exchanger and then routed into a concentrator. Desiccant pure to around 97% can be removed from the concentrator, passed through an economizing heat exchanger to provide the preheating and returned to the conditioner holding area. The concentrator can be heated by steam or other means such as natural gas to boil the wet desiccant causing mixed vapor to enter a vertical distillation column where most of the glycol condenses out on the column packing or plates and returns to the concentrator. Almost pure water vapor normally passes out of the top of the column and can be condensed in a water-cooled (or otherwise cooled) condenser and collected or discarded as liquid water. A portion of the water can be piped back into the top of the column as a reflux stream that scrubs the column packing or plates of desiccant. In this way, the desiccant can be purified to around 97%.
US08052846B2 Liquid cleaning device
The invention relates to a liquid cleaning device that is intended for purifying liquid from pollutants, which liquid cleaning device includes a vessel, having a lower chamber and an upper chamber, which lower chamber is connected to a heating member arranged to heat the liquid in said lower chamber, as well as further including a riser and liquid-distributor member, which riser is arranged to transport heated liquid from said lower chamber up to the upper part of said upper chamber, where the liquid-distributor member is arranged to impart the heated liquid an increased area of exposure to surrounding air, the liquid then, by means of the gravity, running back downward outside the riser and being collected in the lower part of the upper chamber of the vessel, said upper chamber and lower chamber being in at least conditioned communication with each other in order to allow transfer of the liquid from the upper chamber to the lower chamber. According to the invention, the heating member is arranged to be capable of assuming at least two power levels and that a change-over member is arranged to automatically reduce the power level of the heating member.
US08052843B2 System and a method for the steam pre-treatment of chips in association with the production of chemical cellulose pulp
The vessel in which the chips are pre-treated with steam (ST) is provided with a ventilation channel at the top of the vessel for the leading away of weak gases to a weak gas system (NCG). A simple safety system has been installed with the aim of guaranteeing that these weak gases do not reach a level of concentration at which these weak gases become explosive. The safety system has a control unit (CPU) that detects a process parameter that is indicative of the fraction of moisture in the weak gases and opens dilution lines that supply air for the dilution of the weak gases in the ventilation channel. It is appropriate that the dilution take place in stages, where the dilution lines are opened in stages with successively increasing temperature of the weak gases.
US08052838B2 Functionalizing cellulosic and lignocellulosic materials
Irradiated lignocellulosic or cellulosic materials are provided which contain carboxylic acid groups and/or other functional groups not present in a naturally occurring cellulosic or lignocellulosic material from which the irradiated material was obtained.
US08052837B2 Deinking of waste paper
Waste paper is deinked by a composition which comprises a surfactant and a hydrophobic-based deinking component.
US08052834B2 Substrate treating system, substrate treating device, program, and recording medium
Of process steps of polymer removal in a substrate processing apparatus (3), in a step of discharging and spreading a removal solution to coat a rotating substrate (W), data indicative of the number of revolutions of a substrate, the temperature and flow rate of a removal solution, and removal solution discharge time is collected and a combination thereof is synthetically assessed to detect a processing abnormality. In a pure water discharge step, data indicative of the number of revolutions of a substrate, the flow rate of pure water and pure water discharge time is collected and a combination thereof synthetically assessed to detect a processing abnormality. Thus, a processing abnormality in polymer removal is detected based on a combination of important control elements in important steps largely exerting influence on the results of processing, thereby allowing detection of a processing abnormality with a higher degree of accuracy.
US08052832B2 Splicing assembly and method
A splicing assembly comprising a splicing plate having a structure defining at least two cutting grooves. A positioning marker is disposed on the splicing plate, and at least one clamping assembly is coupled to the splicing plate. A method for installing a roll of labels on a labeler comprising removing from the labeler a first core which supports a sheet having labels. The sheet is positioned on a support surface. A second core, which supports a sheet having labels, is positioned on the labeler. The sheet from the second core is disposed on top of the sheet from the first core after the latter has been disposed on a support surface. The sheets are subsequently cut and spliced. A method for splicing comprising cutting a pair of superimposed pliable substrates to produce a pair of residual pliable substrates which are subsequently spliced.
US08052828B2 Photosensitive laminate film for forming top plate portion of precision fine space and method of forming precision fine space
A photosensitive laminate film for forming a top plate portion, which is suitably used for efficiently and inexpensively forming various precision fine spaces, particularly the precision fine spaces formed in an electronic part such as inkjet head, and a method of forming the precision fine space using the photosensitive laminate film are provided. As the photosensitive laminate film for forming the top plate portion of the precision fine space, which constitutes the top plate portion of the precision fine space by being placed on the precision minute concave portion so as to cover an upper opening followed by being cured, a laminate film providing at least the photosensitive composition layer and the transparent support film is used. The transparent support film supports the photosensitive composition layer as well as prevents the photosensitive composition layer from being deformed upon curing.
US08052827B2 Method for producing material roll
The invention is directed to a method for producing a material roll for use in a process including unwinding a long sheet material from a roll of the long sheet material, wherein the long sheet material includes an optical film, a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and a release film laminated in this order, and the optical film includes a polarizing plate, cutting at least the optical film to form an optical film having a specific length, and then bonding the optical film to a surface of a rectangular optical display unit, while feeding the optical film, the method comprising the steps of: lengthwise slitting a long material having a longitudinal direction parallel to an absorption axis of the polarizing plate, so that a long sheet material having a width corresponding to a short or long side of the optical display unit is obtained; and winding the long sheet material into a roll.
US08052826B2 Method of making bead-stiffened composite parts and parts made thereby
A beaded composite panel is fabricated using composite plies. An opening is formed in each of plies, and each ply is laid up on a bead feature and drawn down over the bead feature in the area of the opening so as to widen the opening into a gap allowing the ply to conform to the contour of the bead feature. Patches are fabricated and placed on the plies overlying over the openings. The laid-up plies are compacted and cured.
US08052821B2 Method for manufacturing a facemask structure
A method for manufacturing facemask structure includes following steps. A facemask with first folds is placed on a seat and a pressing body forces the facemask so as to form step-shaped structures. Then, two movable plates are used to form the step-shaped structures as second folds on the facemask. Thereby, the mask can be stretched both vertically and horizontally, in a way that the mask body becomes more three-dimensional, fitting more firmly to the contours of a wearer's face, and providing more comfort and convenience than the conventional facemasks.
US08052814B2 Position-variable control console
A device and a method, in particular for labeling containers, in particular bottles, having a corresponding conveyor device, several equipment units, in particular labeling units, and a controller as well as a control console for controlling certain unit functions. To ensure reliable operation of the device, the control console is arranged to be variable in position and at least one position detector is provided, whereby the controller enables or blocks certain functions in a safety-oriented manner as a function of the position of the control console.
US08052809B2 Iron-based brazing foil and method for brazing
Disclosed are amorphous, ductile brazing foils with a composition consisting essentially of FeRestNiaCrbSicBdPe, wherein 0 atomic %≦a<25 atomic %; 0 atomic %≦b≦15 atomic %; 1 atomic %≦c≦10 atomic %; 4 atomic %≦d≦15 atomic %; 1 atomic %≦e≦9 atomic %; any impurities≦0.5 atomic %; rest Fe, wherein 2 atomic %≦c+e≦10 atomic % and 15 atomic %≦c+d+e≦22 atomic %, or consisting essentially of FeRestNiaCrbMofCugSicBdPe, wherein 0 atomic %≦a<25 atomic %; 0 atomic %≦b≦15 atomic %; 1 atomic %
US08052808B2 High strength hot rolled steel sheet with excellent press workability and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a hot rolled steel sheet which contains C, Si, Mn, Al, Ti, N, and S. The C, Ti, N, and sulfur contents satisfy the following condition (1), and the Si and Mn contents satisfy the following condition (2): [C]−{[Ti]−(48/14)×[N]−(48/32)×[S]}/4≦0.01  (1) 0.20≦([Si]/[Mn])≦0.85  (2) in which the symbol [X] represents the content (percent by mass) of the element X, and the steel sheet has a microstructure having an area percentage of bainitic ferrite of 90% or more, an area percentage of martensite of 5% or less, and an area percentage of bainite of 5% or less, based on the area of an observed field. This steel sheet excels in properties demanded in press working, such as shape freezing ability, hole-expandability, and bendability, even though it has a high tensile strength of 980 MPa or more.
US08052805B2 Method for automatically flushing a bulk dispensing system in a cleaning appliance
A method for flushing at least a portion of a bulk dispensing system in a household cleaning appliance.
US08052802B2 Rear wiper control method when combined with flip up glass
A rear wiper assembly that moves to a parked position located out of contact with the rear windshield upon the occurrence of a specified condition. Upon resuming the normal operation of the rear wiper assembly the rear wiper arm waits a first delay prior to moving to a flip position located on the rear windshield and then waits a second delay prior to resuming its normal oscillation across the rear windshield.
US08052801B2 Pipeline pig launch pin and retraction system
A method and system for launching a pipeline pig includes the steps of compressing a modulating bypass valve of a pipeline pig and installing a locking means to temporally maintain the bypass valve in the compressed state. Once the pig has travelled a predetermined distance through the pipeline, the locking means is released and retrieved through the launch trap door. The locking means is preferably a launching pin having a clip attachment that receives the clips of a retractable lead. The lead is housed by a retraction device that is detachably secured to the launch trap door. The modulating valve has sufficient mass and aerodynamic drag to overcome the force of a gas spring. The valve moves between a retracted and compressed position substantially instantaneously upon the pipeline pig stalling and between the compressed and retracted position substantially instantaneously upon the pipeline pig accelerating.
US08052796B2 CVD reactor comprising a photodiode array
The invention relates to a device for depositing especially crystalline layers on especially crystalline substrates, said device comprising a process chamber which is arranged in a reactor housing and comprises a substrate holder for receiving at least one substrate. A gas-admittance body is arranged opposite the substrate holder, said body comprising a gas-leak surface facing the substrate holder and provided with a plurality of essentially evenly distributed outlets for process gases to be introduced into the process chamber. In order to improve the observation of the surface temperature, the inventive device is provided with a plurality of sensors arranged to the rear of the outlets and respectively aligned with an associated outlet.
US08052790B2 Mask for silicon crystallization, method of forming poly-silicon thin film, and manufacturing method of thin film transistor
A silicon crystallization mask of the present invention includes; a main exposure portion including a plurality of complete light transmission regions which completely transmit light therethrough, and a preliminary exposure portion including a plurality of incomplete light transmission regions, which each partially transmit light therethrough, wherein at least two of the incomplete light transmission regions have different magnitudes of light transmittance from each other.
US08052783B2 Rotary adsorbers for continuous bulk separations
A rotary adsorber for continuous bulk separations is disclosed. The rotary adsorber includes an adsorption zone in fluid communication with an influent adsorption fluid stream, and a desorption zone in fluid communication with a desorption fluid stream. The fluid streams may be gas streams or liquid streams. The rotary adsorber includes one or more adsorption blocks including adsorbent structure(s). The adsorbent structure adsorbs the target species that is to be separated from the influent fluid stream. The apparatus includes a rotary wheel for moving each adsorption block through the adsorption zone and the desorption zone. A desorption circuit passes an electrical current through the adsorbent structure in the desorption zone to desorb the species from the adsorbent structure. The adsorbent structure may include porous activated carbon fibers aligned with their longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the flow direction of the desorption fluid stream. The adsorbent structure may be an inherently electrically-conductive honeycomb structure.
US08052782B2 Structure for attaching dust collection electrode of wet electric dust collector
A structure for attaching a dust collection electrode of a wet electric dust collector that is low-cost and resistant to entire face corrosion, space corrosion, and hole corrosion. An end of a dust collection electrode element is tightened and slung to be supported by a slung beam slung in a lateral direction in a building accommodating a dust collection apparatus. A supporting member made of Hastelloy® is attached to the dust collection electrode element. The supporting member and the slung beam include attachment holes through which the supporting member and the slung beam are tightened together by a bolt and nut. The slung beam and the dust collection electrode element have therebetween the supporting member to sling and support the slung beam and the dust collection electrode plate so that the slung beam and the dust collection electrode plate are separated from each other.
US08052781B2 Integrated waste toner and ozone collection system
The present disclosure provides for a device that can include a waste collector, a system that transports waste stream of particle matter from a housing, a system that transports a waste stream of effluent and particle matter from the housing, and a separator that receives the waste streams and collects the particle matter into the waste collector.
US08052777B2 Vessel, system, and process for minimizing unequal flow distribution
One exemplary embodiment can be a pressure swing adsorber vessel. The pressure swing adsorber vessel can include one or more walls. Generally, the one or more walls contain an adsorbent bed having a first side and a second side and at least one spacer forming a cusp. Usually, the one or more walls and the adsorbent bed define at least one void volume adjacent to the adsorbent bed, and the cusp of the at least one spacer may be positioned in the at least one void volume. The cusp can be positioned opposing an incoming feed stream or a desorbent stream.
US08052776B2 Poly(amino-alcohol)-silica hybrid compositions and membranes
The present invention provides a method for making a hybrid composition membrane comprising the steps of preparing a sol comprising at least one poly(amino-alcohol) and at least one alkoxy silane, casting the sol on a surface and drying the casted sol to form the hybrid composition membrane. The hybrid composition membrane may be used for capturing and separating CO2 and/or H2S from a gas sample.
US08052774B2 Method for concentration of gold in copper sulfide minerals
Disclosed herein is a method for concentrating gold contained in a leach residue obtained in a copper hydrometallurgical process for recovering copper from a copper sulfide mineral to efficiently separate and recover gold from the leach residue: a gold-bearing copper sulfide mineral is subjected to pressure leaching with sulfuric acid at a temperature higher than 102° C. and 112° C. or lower to obtain a leach residue, and the leach residue is subjected to flotation to separate it into a float fraction and a sink fraction; the float fraction obtained by flotation is desulfurized to obtain a desulfurized product; the desulfurized product is subjected to oxidative roasting to obtain an oxidatively-roasted product; the oxidatively-roasted product is dissolved in a sulfuric acid solution to obtain a copper solution, and a gold-bearing residue is separated and recovered from the copper solution.
US08052770B2 Filter retainer for turbine engine
Embodiments of the present invention include a filter clamping device for use in a filtering system that provides filtered intake air for a power generation facility. In some embodiments, a filter clamp is provided, which includes an over-center action mechanism that locks the clamp in place against the filter gasket. Some embodiments also include a camming surface that provides gradually increasing pressure on the filter gasket as the clamp is engaged. The clamp may also include a stop that engages the filter frame at a predetermined position and determines, in part, the amount of clamping pressure applied to the filter.
US08052766B2 Device and method for cleaning selective catalytic reduction protective devices
One embodiment described herein relates to a system for removing pollutants from a flue gas. The system includes a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system having a SCR reactor containing a NOx reducing catalyst and one or more SCR protective devices. At least one of the SCR protective devices is connected to a rapping hammer system that actively remove fly ash collected on the SCR protective devices.
US08052760B2 Suspension liner system with seal
A suspension liner system adapted to provide an interface between a residual limb and a prosthetic socket, the liner sleeve including an elongate generally conical liner sleeve including proximal and distal end areas, and a sealing member arranged to removably fit onto the distal end area of the liner sleeve. The sealing member has proximal and distal end areas, and defines a resilient seal element located at the proximal end area and a receiving portion formed from the distal end area. The seal element outwardly protrudes relative to the receiving portion of the liner sleeve and is arranged for deflection against the liner sleeve.
US08052758B1 Method and apparatus for trialing a modular humeral head
The present invention is directed to a modular shoulder prosthesis measuring device having an adjustable radial offset provided by relative rotation of an adapter interdisposed between the stem and the head. Specifically, the interface configuration between the stem and the adapter, as well as between the adapter and the head are designed such that relative positioning of these components provides a continuous adjustment in the radial offset. Indicia are provided to precisely determine the magnitude and direction of the adjustment being made.
US08052756B2 Method and apparatus for wrist arthroplasty
A method of implanting a distal radial wrist implant relative to a host radius while salvaging at least portions of fractured radial bone can include, determining a size of a host radius. A distal radial component can be selected based on the determination. The distal radial component can have a body that includes a first connection portion. A stem portion can be selected based on the determination. The stem portion can have a second connection portion. Portions of the fractured radial bone can be located around the body. The portions of the fractured radial bone can be secured relative to the body. The first connection portion of the distal radial component can be coupled with the second connection portion of the stem portion. The distal radial implant can be implanted relative to the host radius.
US08052750B2 Valve prosthesis fixation techniques using sandwiching
A prosthesis is provided for implantation at a native semilunar valve of a native valve complex. The prosthesis includes a distal fixation member, configured to be positioned in a downstream artery, and shaped so as to define exactly three proximal engagement arms that are configured to be positioned at least partially within respective ones of semilunar sinuses, and, in combination, to apply, to tissue that defines the semilunar sinuses, a first axial force directed toward a ventricle. The prosthesis further includes a proximal fixation member coupled to the distal fixation member, the proximal fixation member configured to be positioned at least partially on a ventricular side of the native semilunar valve, and to apply, to the ventricular side of the native valve complex, a second axial force directed toward the downstream artery, such that application of the first and second forces couples the prosthesis to the native valve complex.
US08052748B2 Systems and methods for holding annuloplasty rings
Holders for releasably holding annuloplasty rings prior to and during the implantation of the rings employ any of a variety of features relating to such things as holder shape, handle attachment structures, securement of a ring to the holder, and release of the ring from the holder.
US08052745B2 Endoprosthesis
In embodiments a stent includes a stent body and a wire-form carrying a drug located along the stent body.
US08052744B2 Medical devices and methods of making the same
Medical devices, such as endoprostheses, and related methods are disclosed.
US08052742B2 Intraluminal graft
An intraluminal graft includes a tubular graft body extending along a cylindrical axis, a plurality of wires spaced apart from each other and arranged to circumferentially reinforce said tubular graft body along a substantial portion of its length, and a body surface including an inner surface region and an outer surface region. The body surface defines a plurality of apertures extending from an exterior space, and a first portion of a first wire is in the interior space while a second portion of the first wire is in the exterior space.
US08052741B2 Branch vessel prosthesis with a roll-up sealing assembly
A branch prosthesis configured for placement in a branch vessel includes an expandable tubular body portion, an expandable annular flange attached to a proximal end of the body portion, and a sealing sleeve proximally extending from the annular flange. The sealing sleeve is adapted to deform to a generally straight cylindrical hollow shape during implantation. When deployed, the sealing sleeve rolls up to a tightly-wound coil that bears against the annular flange. When used in conjunction with a main prosthesis having a side opening and deployed within in a main vessel, the annular flange of the branch prosthesis engages an outer surface of the main prosthesis around a perimeter of the side opening and the sealing sleeve engages an inner surface of the main prosthesis around the perimeter of the side opening to form a fluid-tight seal between the main prosthesis and the branch prosthesis.
US08052735B2 Expandable medical device with ductile hinges
An expandable tissue supporting device of the present invention employs ductile hinges at selected points in the expandable device. When expansion forces are applied to the device as a whole, the ductile hinges concentrate expansion stresses and strains in small well defined areas. The expandable medical device including ductile hinges provides the advantages of low expansion force requirements, relatively thick walls which are radio-opaque, improved crimping properties, high crush strength, reduced elastic recoil after implantation, and control of strain to a desired level. The expandable tissue supporting device includes a plurality of elongated beams arranged in a cylindrical device and connected together by a plurality of ductile hinges. Although many ductile hinge configurations are possible, the ductile hinges preferably have a substantially constant hinge cross sectional area which is smaller than a beam cross sectional area such that as the device is expanded from a first diameter to a second diameter, the ductile hinges experience plastic deformation while the beams are not plastically deformed.
US08052731B2 Medical electrical lead with expandable fixation features
A medical electrical lead adapted to be at least partially implanted in a cardiac vessel includes a fixation feature operable to change from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration in which the fixation feature is adapted to engage an inner surface of the cardiac vessel. A tendon is disposed within a lumen of the lead and is operatively connected to the fixation feature and adapted to cause the fixation feature to change from the undeployed configuration to the deployed configuration for acute and/or chronic fixation of the lead. In one embodiment, the fixation feature includes a deflectable region of the lead which in the deployed configuration causes a surface of the lead body to engage the inner surface of the cardiac vessel. In another embodiment, the fixation feature includes a radially expandable structure for engaging the inner surface of the vessel in the deployed configuration.
US08052729B2 Anterior lumbar lag plate
An anterior lumbar plate for attachment with bone screws to selected vertebrae of a person's spine is combined: (a) with separate L5 and S1 drill guides separately and removably attachable to the lumbar plate, and (b) with lock plates removably attachable to the lumbar plate to prevent unscrewing of installed bone screws. This invention further provides a method for implanting and locking in place the L5 and S1 bone screws. This invention is adaptable for L4-L5, L4-L5-S1, and L5-S1 lumbar plates.
US08052726B2 Ilio-sacral connector system and method
A system and method for anchoring a connector to a bony portion of a spinal column is provided. The connector is engaged to the spinal column with an anchor. The connector receives an elongate connecting element that extends along two or more vertebrae of the spinal column. The connector includes an eyelet portion that houses a retaining member through which the anchor extends. The retaining member allows movement of the connector relative to the anchor prior to engagement of the connecting element to the connector. When the connecting element is engaged to the connector, the connector is fixed relative to the anchor and the retaining member.
US08052721B2 Multi-dimensional horizontal rod for a dynamic stabilization and motion preservation spinal implantation system and method
A dynamic stabilization, motion preservation spinal implant system includes an anchor system, a horizontal rod system and a vertical rod system. The systems are modular so that various constructs and configurations can be created and customized to a patient.
US08052716B2 Embolic protection system
A embolic protection system 1 comprises a guidewire 99 for advancing through a vasculature, the guidewire 99 having a distal end and a proximal end; an embolic protection filter 1 having a filter body 41 with a distal end and a proximal end, the filter body 41 providing for a collapsed configuration and an expanded deployed configuration. The embolic protection filter body 41 has a guidewire path for slidably receiving the guidewire 99 to permit movement of the filter 1 relative to the guidewire 99 when the filter 1 is in the collapsed configuration and the expanded deployed configuration. A delivery catheter 2 is advanceable over the guidewire 99 for delivery of the embolic protection filter 1; the delivery catheter 2 having a proximal end and a distal end. The filter 1 is deployed from the distal end of the delivery catheter 2 into the expanded deployed configuration. A retrieval catheter 3 is also advanceable over the guidewire 99 for retrieval of the filter 1, the retrieval catheter 3 having a distal end and a proximal end; and engagement elements for engaging the embolic protection filter 1 with the guidewire 99 for retrieval of the filter 1 into the retrieval catheter 3 in the collapsed configuration.
US08052713B2 Vascular filter having articulation region and methods of use in the ascending aorta
Apparatus and methods are provided for use in filtering emboli from a vessel such as the ascending aorta, wherein a vascular device comprises a support hoop having an articulation region connected near a distal end of an elongated member, a blood permeable sac affixed to the support hoop so that the support hoop forms a mouth of the blood permeable sac, a guide wire, and a delivery sheath. The articulation region comprises a reduced thickness region of the support hoop that prevents kinks from forming in the support hoop when the apparatus is contracted to its delivery state, and curved regions that close the mouth of the sac to prevent material escaping from the sac when the apparatus is collapsed for removal.
US08052710B2 Endoscopic balloon tissue dissector and retractor
An instrument for endoscopic surgery comprises a retractor having independently spreadable retractor blades pivotally mounted at the distal end of a tube, through which a balloon dissector can be passed. The blades are pivoted on axes transverse to the elongation of the tube. The blades are externally convex and internally concave in cross-sectional planes to which the elongation of the tube is perpendicular. The balloon is transparent, and the balloon dissector is provided with an image transmitter for visualization of tissue dissection.
US08052708B2 Apparatus for the percutaneous marking of a lesion
A biopsy marking apparatus for placing a radiopaque marker at the location of a percutaneous biopsy. The biopsy marking apparatus comprises an introducer in combination with a radiopaque marker. The introducer ejects the radiopaque marker at the location of the biopsy. The introducer is configured to completely eject the radiopaque marker and prevent it from being subsequently drawn into the introducer as the introducer is removed from the biopsied tissue mass. The radiopaque marker has enhanced radiopaque characteristics and enhanced non-migration characteristics.
US08052705B2 Instrument and method for scrubbing the corneal epithelium
A scrubbing instrument for scrubbing the human eye corneal epithelium, including a handle, having a grip portion, a scrubbing head having a curved main scrubbing surface, and a connection arrangement for enabling connection of the scrubbing head to the handle and disconnection of the scrubbing head from the handle, thus enabling the scrubbing head to serve as a sterile, disposable, single-use component.
US08052701B1 Method and apparatus for rupturing a vulnerable plaque
Methods and apparatuses for treating a vulnerable plaque are described herein. In one aspect of the invention, the exemplary apparatus includes a medical device to treat a vulnerable plaque within a body lumen, where the medical device is adapted to position a rupturing device to rupture a fibrous cap of a vulnerable plaque. In one particular embodiment, the medical device includes a rupturing wire having a predetermined pattern to enable the rupturing device to rupture the fibrous cap of the vulnerable plaque. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
US08052699B1 Viscerotomy closure device and method of use
Viscerotomy closure devices and methods of use close a hole in a bodily organ, such as one created during a natural orifice transgastric surgery procedure. A mesh with a hole in its center and an attached loop of suture having a Roeder knot is mounted on the protruding rod of an end-to-end anastomosis stapler between the anvil and the staple carrying member. The mesh covers the staple receiving slots. When rotated when in contact with tissue, an augur-shaped blade attached to the anvil's exterior self-feeds the tissue through a notch in the anvil's base into the space between the anvil and the staple carrying member. After the stapler is fired to staple the mesh to the tissue and create a viscerotomy, a knot pusher cinches the loop of suture and subsequently tightens the Roeder knot to maintain the cinch.
US08052697B2 Clamp device to plicate the stomach
A medical device for clamping the stomach in morbid obesity surgery consists of a silicone frame that is essentially U-shaped, having opposing legs self-hinged to a bight portion interconnecting the legs. The opposing legs have sufficient stiffness to permit limited bending and have inner surfaces that sealingly carry an inflatable balloon which can be selectively inflated or aspirated after the device has been clamped to the stomach to adjust the gastric restriction stoma. A flexible latch member carried by one of the legs has at least one serration which is inserted into a latch cavity of the opposing leg to lock the opposing legs in fixed spaced relationship. Lumens within the legs communicate with a fluid supply source and respective inflatable balloon for selective inflation or aspiration of the inflatable balloons. The medical device for clamping the stomach may be self-adjusting upon distention and contraction of the proximal stomach. A platform member having finger extensions which are biased to remain in compressive engagement with the anterior surface of the proximal stomach reduce the gastric restriction stoma from its nominal position upon distention of the proximal stomach and enlarge the reduction upon contraction of the proximal stomach to the nominal position.
US08052695B2 Adjustable instruments for use with an electromagnetic localizer
A system for tracking the position of an instrument relative to an area of interest. The system includes an instrument and an instrument guide mounted to the instrument. The instrument guide carries a first localizer proximate the instrument. The first localizer is movable relative to the instrument. The system also includes a fixator configured to be attached to the area of interest. The fixator carries a second localizer proximate the area of interest. The second localizer is movable relative to the area of interest. The first and second localizers are movable in order that the first and second localizers are in communication such that the position of one of the first and second localizers is known relative to the position of the other of the first and second localizers.
US08052694B2 Device for manipulating material in a tissue
A medical device for manipulation of material in a tissue includes a sheath, an object engaging unit, and a flexible coupler. The object engaging unit has an operative end and a base. The flexible coupler includes a longitudinal axis and a distal portion; the distal portion is associated with the base of the object engaging unit and is bendable in an arc to various ranges. The flexible coupler confers lateral movement on the object engaging unit thereby permitting manipulation and/or retrieval of material lodged or disposed in heretofore often inaccessible tissue regions. The sheath has a longitudinal axis and a lumen. The object engaging unit is in a collapsed position when it is within the sheath lumen and an expanded position when it is extended beyond the sheath.
US08052692B2 Cutting guide apparatus and surgical method for use in knee arthroplasty
Novel cutting guides and surgical methods for use in knee arthroplasty are described. Embodiments of the inventive cutting guide apparatus include fixed and adjustable cutting guide blocks having a series of slots designed to accommodate a cutting saw. The cutting guides and surgical method are designed to allow for the provision of all desired surgical cuts upon the distal end of the femur, for subsequent implantation of a prosthesis thereto, without having to remove the cutting guide block.
US08052690B2 Variable angle orthopaedic reamer driver
An orthopaedic reamer driver includes a tubular housing having at least one first positioning feature. A driveshaft within the housing has a drive end. A variable angle cap is pivotally coupled with the housing adjacent the drive end. The variable angle cap includes at least one leg extending along a side of the housing. Each leg has a second positioning feature selectively engaging and disengaging with a corresponding first positioning feature at a selected one of a plurality of angular positions. Each second positioning feature maintains the variable angle cap at the selected angular position when engaged with the corresponding first positioning feature. A variable angle joint is coupled to the drive end, and a reamer drive head is coupled to the variable angle joint.
US08052689B2 Cut-off acetabular reamer
An acetabular reamer (10, 10′, 10″) is intended in particular for the shaping of the cotyloid cavity in the event of a replacement of a hip joint by total prosthesis. The reamer (10, 10′, 10″) is typically of a truncated hemispherical form and is adapted for attachment to a reamer spindle in order to be driven in rotation about a cutter axis (11). The ability to cut a full, continuous hemisphere to the apex (12) of the hemispherical body (14) is suppressed, so as to attain the principal advantage of the invention, namely, to adequately prepare the acetabulum for receipt of a prosthesis while minimizing the possibility of breakthrough of the fovea/acetabular fossa. The reamer (10, 10′, 10″) has an interface 16 typically made tip of cross bars (20) which a holder engages for rotationally activating the reamer for cutting.
US08052687B2 Calcar planar
A kit for removing calcar bone from a resected face around a bone canal of a long bone prepared to receive an orthopaedic implant is provided. The kit includes a trial for insertion into the bone canal of the long bone and a fixture. The fixture has a connector for connecting the fixture to the trial and a guide for guiding the calcar reamer. The kit also includes a calcar reamer for removing calcar bone from the resected face around the bone canal of the long bone. The reamer includes a feature for cooperation with the guide of the fixture. The kit further includes an implant for insertion into the bone canal of the long bone.
US08052683B2 Device for ablation and visualization
An ablation and visualization device includes a shaft, at least one ablation element coupled to the distal end of the shaft, and a scope coupled to the shaft proximate the distal end. The scope may be a fiber optic endoscope, an infrared sensor, or an ultrasound sensor, and may be coupled to an output device to display imagery collected by the scope. The scope includes at least one aperture, which may be movable. An optical element, such as a lens or filter, may be positioned over the aperture. The scope may be positioned laterally relative to the ablation elements or in a plane substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the ablation elements. The scope may be positioned with the aperture positioned distally or proximally relative to the ablation elements. The scope may be slidably or rotatably coupled to the shaft.
US08052680B2 Process and device for the treatment of atrial arrhythmia
A process for preventing atrial premature contractions originating within a pulmonary vein from being conducted into the left atrium of a human heart. More specifically, an ablation lesion is formed which electrically isolates the located source of the atrial premature contraction in the pulmonary vein from connection with the left atrium and blocks passage of the atrial premature contraction originating from the located source. In one embodiment, the steps of the process include advancing a medical device into the left atrium of a human heart, introducing the advanced medical device into the pulmonary vein from the left atrium of a human heart, sensing electrical activity within the pulmonary vein using the introduced medical device, locating a source of the atrial premature contraction within the pulmonary vein using the sensed electrical activity, and forming an ablation lesion in tissue of the pulmonary vein at a location proximal from the located source of the atrial premature contraction within the pulmonary vein. Conductive media and various medical devices may be used with the process.
US08052679B2 Ablation probe with electrode array and tissue penetrating distal tip electrode
An ablation device includes a cannula having a distal end and a lumen, an array of electrodes deployable from within the lumen, each of the electrodes having a first configuration when inside the lumen, and a second configuration when unconfined outside the lumen, the electrodes having respective distal ends that point at least partially towards a distal direction when deployed, and an operative electrode secured to the distal end of the cannula. In one embodiment, the operative electrode has a shape that is different from the array of electrodes. In another embodiment, the operative electrode is not retractable within the lumen.
US08052671B2 Intra-abdominal pressure monitoring device and method
An apparatus for monitoring the intra-abdominal pressure of a patient includes a urinary catheter (102) connected to a urine valve (250) providing selectable communication between a discharge end of the urinary catheter (102) and either a drain (224) or a fluid source (104). Preferably, the urine valve (250) is adapted for remote actuation and has a housing adapted to resist patient discomfort from leg-valve (250) contact. Plumbing structure desirably maintains fluid supply (225) and drain (223) conduits in a substantially parallel arrangement to assist routing those conduits (225, 223) between a patient's legs. When the urine valve (250) is oriented to permit communication with the fluid source (104), an infusion pump (116′) may be used to infuse a known quantity of fluid through the urine valve (250) and into the patient's bladder (216). A pressure transducer (218) desirably is connected in-circuit to indicate the fluid's pressure and avoid pressure fluctuations induced by system components. To facilitate the infusion process, an automatic flow control device may be included in a fluid supply path (225) and arranged to permit repetitive operation of a syringe (116′) to inject a bolus of fluid into the patient's bladder (216). Subsequent to making a pressure measurement, the urine valve (250) is returned to the bladder (216) draining position.
US08052669B2 Methods and devices for delivery of compositions to conduits
The present invention comprises systems, methods and devices for the delivery of visualizable or treatment compositions or therapeutic agents comprising device elements for diagnosis and/or treatment of conduits. A delivery system comprising an introducer shaft having at least one exit port and at least one delivery catheter for placement of compositions into the conduit, such as a fallopian tube.
US08052661B2 Hollow curved superelastic medical needle and method
A needle assembly 10 compromising an infusion needle 11 that includes a needle cannula 13 made of a superelastic material such as Nitinol. The needle cannula is cold-worked or heat annealed to produce a preformed bend 16 that can be straightened within passageway 21 of a coaxial outer cannula 12 for introduction into the body of a patient. Upon deployment from the outer cannula, the needle cannula substantially returns to the preformed configuration for the introduction or extraction of materials at areas lateral to the entry path of the needle assembly. The needle assembly can compromise a plurality of needle cannulae than can be variably arranged or configured for attaining a desired infusion pattern.
US08052652B2 Securement device
A securement device includes a filament which passes underneath at least a portion of the securement device and can be secured about a medical article to be retained. The filament may be secured about the medical article without the use of adhesive. At least a portion of the securement device underlying the medical article may comprise a compressible material which may be used to exert a restoring force upon the medical article to hold the medical article tightly in place.
US08052650B2 Device with removable projections
A feeding device configured for insertion into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient, and dynamic movement through the gastrointestinal tract toward the jejunum. The device includes an elongate tubular member having a plurality of distal projections disposed on an exterior surface thereof. The projections extend radially outwardly from the exterior surface of the tubular member a distance sufficient to engage an interior surface of the gastrointestinal tract during peristaltic contractions therein, and are configured to promote ingress of the device in response to the contractions. At least some of the projections are soluble under bodily conditions at the gastrointestinal tract, thereby facilitating removal of the feeding device.
US08052649B2 Medical tubing securement assembly and methods of use
A medical tubing securement assembly includes a base having a disc, and a retaining adapter removably and rotatably attached to the disc. The retaining adapter includes a longitudinal passage for receiving a locking adapter. The locking adapter includes a longitudinal passage for receiving a medical tube. Once the tube is inserted into the locking adapter, the locking adapter may be rotated within the retaining adapter, around the tube, to secure the tube within the securement assembly.
US08052648B2 Intravenous catheter anchoring device
An intravenous catheter anchoring assembly is disclosed and includes a patient-contacting membrane, a platform, and a retaining strap for securing a catheter or tubing of an administration set to a patient. The strap is attached to the platform with adjustable pull-tabs that permit a variety of catheter shapes and sizes to be secured. The strap is also elastomeric so that the strap is stretchable and thereby grabs the secured catheter. The strap and platform further define a plurality of passageways that permit the catheter to be secured in a plurality of non-aligned directions.
US08052647B2 Vascular guide wire introducer assembly and valve therefor
A vascular guidewire introducer device (10) having a needle (52), a bulb (16), and a valve subassembly (100) through which a guidewire (14) is insertable for vascular guidewire insertion into a blood vessel (12) of a patient. The valve subassembly (100) includes a proximal fitting (102), a proximal cap (106), and a valve arrangement (104) disposed within a valve seat (118) defined by one of the fitting and the cap. The valve arrangement includes distal and proximal disc-shaped valve members (122,126) having centered slits (124,128) therethrough, and a spacer (130) disposed between the valve members. A method is disclosed for precisely centering the slits of the valve members during assembly and for retaining the valve members in their precisely centered positions in the valve seat. The valve arrangement permits use with a wide range of guidewire diameters.
US08052643B2 Enteral feeding set and interlock device therefor
An enteral feeding set for an enteral feeding pump having a control system for controlling operation of the pump to supply nutrient liquid to a patient through the enteral feeding set loaded in the pump, a source of electromagnetic radiation for emitting electromagnetic radiation and an electromagnetic radiation detector for receiving the electromagnetic radiation. The enteral feeding set includes a conduit for carrying nutrient liquid to a patient and a safety interlock device associated with the conduit adapted for mounting in the pump. The safety interlock device includes an electromagnetic radiation propagation affecting member formed to affect the propagation of electromagnetic radiation from the source of electromagnetic radiation through the safety interlock device and block visible light when properly loaded on the pump for directing the electromagnetic radiation from the source of electromagnetic radiation to the detector.
US08052636B2 Robotic catheter system and methods
The apparatus of one embodiment of the present invention is comprised of a flexible sheath instrument, a flexible guide instrument, and a tool. The flexible sheath instrument comprises a first instrument base removably coupleable to an instrument driver and defines a sheath instrument working lumen. The flexible guide instrument comprises a second instrument base removably coupleable to the instrument driver and is threaded through the sheath instrument working lumen. The guide instrument also defines a guide instrument working lumen. The tool is threaded through the guide instrument working lumen. For this embodiment of the apparatus, the sheath instrument and guide instrument are independently controllable relative to each other.
US08052635B1 Electrical breast pump and flexible breast cup system
A breast pump with a speed, a maximum vacuum, and a minimum vacuum combined with a selectively collapsing breast cup mimics the action of a suckling infant. The speed and maximum vacuum are user selectable to adjust the pump to the particular user. The breast cup is made of a flexible material with a thickness designed to first collapse around the areola area of a breast to mimic an action of a suckling infant.
US08052632B2 Cardiotomy reservoir with blood inflow and outflow connectors located for optimizing operation
A cardiotomy reservoir, comprising an outer wall provided, at the lid, with connectors for the inflow of blood to be filtered and, at the bottom, with a connector for the outflow of the filtered blood, a filtering mass being provided which divides the space delimited by the outer wall into a portion that is connected to the inflow connectors and a portion that is connected to the outflow connector; the cardiotomy reservoir comprises a layer of material adapted to retain fats present in blood, and further comprises a first partition and a second partition, which are adapted to delimit at different distances the region that comprises the blood outflow connector and are provided with ports for the passage of the blood in its path for accessing the connector which are arranged at differentiated levels with respect to the bottom, the ports that are provided in the first partition that lies closest to the outflow connector being located at a height, from the bottom, that is greater than the height of the ports provided in the second partition, detachable elements for blocking the blood outflow connector being further provided.
US08052631B2 Systems and methods for delivery of peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions
The invention provides container systems, kits and methods for peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions. Such a system, for example, includes a first compartment that contains a PD osmotic agent and a second compartment that contains a PD buffer agent. The compartments maintain their respective contents separately from one another for purposes of transport, storage and/or sterilization. However, the compartments are fluidly couplable, so that their respective contents can be combined with one another, e.g., following sterilization of the agents and prior to their introduction into the patient's abdomen. The invention provides, in other aspects, such systems, kits and methods that provide protective structure which inhibits breaking of a seal prior between the second compartment and an outlet of the system, prior to breaking of a seal between the first and second compartments.
US08052630B2 Segmented pneumatic pad regulating pressure upon parts of the body during usage
A compression garment or pad for selective application for treatment of lymphedema evidenced at various locations of the body. The pad includes a pair or series of layers of hermetically sealed material, that can capture pressurized air, when applied therein, and is formed through the patterned sealing of the layers of the pad together, at select locations, to form air pockets that can selectively apply isolated points of pressure to the patient's affected area, without disrupting normal vascular and lymphatic functioning. The pad is design cut, for either use in that matter, or for application as a garment to various segments of the body and can apply pressure over the entire affected area. The pad includes valves that allows for injection of measurable air, to the desired pressure points, or its deflation, after treatment.
US08052628B1 Spinal column brace for a contrast therapy system
The present invention relates to a therapeutic spinal column brace system, comprising an active thermal exchange layer for providing thermal contrast therapy to a therapy site, an active compression bladder for providing compression to the therapy site, at least one cushion layer for comfort, a rigid shell including at least one rigid support brace, and an adjustable strapping system to secure the therapeutic spinal column brace system to the spinal column therapy site. In some embodiment an active amalgamated bladder or a thermal exchange and compression bladder may be used in lieu of the thermal exchange bladder and the compression bladder. By regulating the pressure within the bladders the compression may be steady or pulsating to achieve a therapeutic effect. A contrast therapy system comprising a hot reservoir, a cold reservoir, a mixing valve, and a fluid pump for delivering the therapy fluid to the therapeutic spinal column brace system may be utilized.
US08052624B2 Negative pressure, thermal energy transfer device that also provides positive pressure to the patient
A negative pressure, thermal energy device has an enclosure that receives a patient's body part. The body part is positioned in the enclosure and contacts a thermal energy contacting surface. The thermal energy contacting surface transfers its thermal energy to the body part. While in the enclosure, the body part is also exposed to a negative pressure to cause vasodilation. The combination of the vasodilation and the thermal energy transfer alter the patient's body core temperature. To ensure the body part remains in contact with the thermal contacting surface, the enclosure has a portion thereof that moves when negative pressure is in the enclosure. When the negative pressure is applied, the deforming enclosure material is pulled toward the body part to provide a positive pressure on the body part that ensures the body part effectively contacts the thermal energy contacting surface.
US08052623B2 Computer-assisted joint analysis using surface projection
A system and method for computer-assisted joint analysis, wherein the joint elements in a three-dimensional imaging data set are segmented and then projected onto a two-dimensional or three-dimensional reference area for interference analysis and surgical planning.
US08052621B2 Method of sensing forces on a working instrument
A method for estimating the force on a distal end of a working catheter includes positioning a portion of a robotically controlled guide catheter and working catheter into a body lumen wherein a distal end of the working catheter projects distally from a distal end of the guide catheter. The working catheter and guide catheter are dithered with respect to one another using a dithering device operatively connected to a proximal portion of the working catheter. The coupling may occur directly to the working catheter or via a seal such as a Touhy seal. The force experienced by the working catheter at a proximal region is measured through at least one dithering cycle. The force at the distal end of the working catheter is then estimated based on the measured force at the proximal region. The estimated force may be displayed to a physician on, for example, a monitor.
US08052620B2 Guide wire and stent
A guide wire includes a distal core member made of a ferrous alloy which has shape memory properties and superelasticity. The ferrous alloy preferably includes substantially two phases, and has a difference of 100° C. or less between an Af point and an Ms point in a thermal hysteresis of martensitic transformation and reverse transformation. The guide wire may include a proximal core member made of an iron-containing alloy and having a higher modulus of elasticity than the distal core member. The two core members may be joined together by welding to form a core of the guide wire.
US08052619B2 Blood sensor and blood test apparatus having the same
A blood sensor to be used in a blood test apparatus, more specifically speaking, a blood sensor which can be easily attached to a blood test apparatus and detached therefrom. Namely, a blood sensor to be detachably attached to a blood test apparatus having a plural number of connectors, which comprises: a supply channel to which blood is supplied; a detection section provided in the supply channel; an electrode system formed in an area including the detection section; a plural number of connection terminals electrically connected to each electrode of the electrode system respectively; and a standard electrode serving as a standard for differentiating these connection terminals. The connectors are connected respectively to the connection terminals and the standard electrode of the blood sensor having been attached to a definite position of the blood test apparatus.
US08052618B2 Diagnostic test element and process for its production
The invention concerns a process for producing a diagnostic test element for analyzing a body fluid in which a lancing member that can puncture a body part is provided with a collecting channel for body fluid obtained by the puncture, wherein the collecting channel exhibits capillary action, and wherein a sensor member for an optical or electrochemical measurement is connected to the lancing member. According to the invention, the sensor member and the lancing member can be joined together as interlocking connecting components wherein a measuring element of the sensor member is inserted into the collecting channel through an insertion opening of the lancing member.
US08052612B2 Respiration monitoring system
The present invention provides a sleep respiration monitoring system for monitoring sleep quality of a user. The sleep respiration monitoring system has a sensing fabric, a detecting circuit and a judging and analysis circuit. The electrical characteristics of the sensing fabric vary with respiration status or extent of body movement of a user. The detecting circuit detects the electrical characteristics of the sensing fabric. The judging and analysis circuit performs signal processing, signal collection, signal classification and signal determination on output signals of the detecting circuit, so as to determine whether the user lies on the sensing fabric and the sleep quality of the user.
US08052608B2 Transducer apparatus and method for intravascular blood flow measurement
Transducers to measure fluid flow using Doppler ultrasound that are suitable for integrating into or connecting to intravascular devices are disclosed. These transducers meet the requirement for long, thin, flexible transducers, and consist of one or more diffraction-grating transducers, with or without non-diffraction-grating transducers. An exemplary configuration of the transducers utilizes the diffraction caused by narrow transducers to produce beam overlap for Doppler detection of moving blood, and stripline transmission lines are used to bring energy to and receive energy from the transducers and may carry the disclosed transducer configurations as well as carry signals into and out of the blood vessels.
US08052606B2 Balance body ultrasound system
The present invention relates to a hand held ultrasound system having a balance body, a transducer assembly connected to said balance body via a communication means and a plurality of control elements arranged in an ergonomic fashion on said balance body, such that a user may hold said system and operate at least one of said control elements with the same hand. In particular a medical ultrasound system comprising a balance body incorporating system electronics, a power supply and a user interface wherein the user interface comprises a D-controller and a touch screen and a transducer assembly attached to the balanced body by a cable. The present invention relates to a hand held ultrasound system having a balance body, a transducer assembly connected to said balance body via a communication means and a plurality of control elements arranged in an ergonomic fashion on said balance body, such that a user may hold said system and operate at least one of said control elements with the same hand. In particular a medical ultrasound system comprising a balance body incorporating system electronics, a power supply and a user interface wherein the user interface comprises a D-controller and a touch screen and a transducer assembly attached to the balanced body by a cable.
US08052605B2 Multimodal catheter system and method for intravascular analysis
Methods, apparatus, and systems for intravascular analysis combine at least three analytical modalities. In one implementation, intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and near infrared spectroscopy are combined to enable detection of multiple, different abnormalities in the arterial morphology during a single intravascular procedure.
US08052603B2 Transducer/sensor assembly
An imaging transducer assembly is combined with a sensor of a medical positioning system, forming a transducer/sensor assembly. In one embodiment, the sensor includes a coil proximally coupled with the imaging transducer. A cable having first and second wires are proximally coupled to the coil. A non-conductive potting layer is wrapped around the coil. Traces are formed in the non-conductive potting layer that are used to electrically couple the imaging transducer with the first and second wires of the cable.
US08052601B2 System and methods for processing analyte sensor data
Systems and methods for processing sensor analyte data, including initiating calibration, updating calibration, evaluating clinical acceptability of reference and sensor analyte data, and evaluating the quality of sensor calibration. During initial calibration, the analyte sensor data is evaluated over a period of time to determine stability of the sensor. The sensor may be calibrated using a calibration set of one or more matched sensor and reference analyte data pairs. The calibration may be updated after evaluating the calibration set for best calibration based on inclusion criteria with newly received reference analyte data. Fail-safe mechanisms are provided based on clinical acceptability of reference and analyte data and quality of sensor calibration. Algorithms provide for optimized prospective and retrospective analysis of estimated blood analyte data from an analyte sensor.
US08052600B2 Method and system for non-invasive measurement of prescribed characteristics of a subject
In the non-invasive measuring system, a wireless communication device or other sensing device, gathers Doppler information from signals transmitted by the wireless communication or sensing device and reflected off of a target subject. The gathered information is transferred, preferably, over the existing communication network infra-structure to a presentation device. By placing a body sensor on the target subject, the return of the signal reflected from the subject is enhanced and/or additional information is modulated onto the return signal.
US08052590B2 Amorphous metal components for a reproduction machine
In one embodiment, a fuser roll for fusing toner images onto a substrate includes a substantially rigid core member, a deformable, heat conductive base layer overlaying the surface of said core member, and an outer layer supported on the base layer. The outer layer is formed of a heat conductive, conformable amorphous metal.
US08052588B2 Tool replacement system
The present invention has an object to provide a tool replacement system that is capable of preventing the waiting time from occurring as much as possible although an intermediate magazine arranged therefore has a smaller capacity than prior arts. In the tool replacement system, programs pertaining to the sequence of operation and operation time of operating tools 7 are established, wherein, when the operation time of individual tools 7 is shorter than the conveyance time for reciprocation of the tool conveyance apparatus 3 between the tool magazine 1 and the tool replacement arm 4, the object can be solved by realizing transfer of at least a part of the tools planned to be operated in a next process of the corresponding individual tools 7 to the tool replacement arm 4 after the tools are arranged to the intermediate magazine 5.
US08052587B1 Yoga brick
A yoga brick includes first and second casings. Each of the first and second casings includes inner and outer faces spaced along a first axis, a peripheral wall extending between the inner and outer faces, and a first recessed portion formed in the outer face. The first recessed portion includes a wavy holding face having a plurality of anti-slipping ribs. Each of the first and second casings can further include a second recessed portion formed in the outer face thereof. The second recessed portion includes a wavy holding face having a plurality of anti-slipping ribs. The first and second casings can be engaged with each other with the first recessed portion of the first casing aligned with the second recessed portion of the second casing along the first axis and with the second recessed portion of the first casing aligned with the first recessed portion of the second casing along the first axis.
US08052585B2 Rehabilitation apparatus
An exercise machine designed to enhance flexibility and allow for controlled stretching of torso muscles is herein disclosed. The machine comprises a padded cushion upon which a user is situated in a seated position. The machine also comprises a padded bolster which moves in a circular arc which the user pushes against with their back, chest, or side, depending on the seated position. The bolster supports and guides the user through a full arcuate motion from a vertical position downwardly toward the floor. The machine comprises a stationary second pad which supports a user's pelvis or waist area during the stretching therapy. The positions of both the bolster and stationary pad are adjustable in order to accommodate the user's size. The exercise machine utilizes a series of counterbalancing springs housed within a main enclosure to enable the user to easily return to a sitting position.
US08052583B1 Swivel exerciser
A swivel exerciser includes a base having two front legs, a rear leg, a head tube in a center of a front portion, and two spaced hand grips on a top end of the head tube. A sector-shaped plate on a top of the base includes two central pivot members. A curved rail is around a curved edge of the sector-shaped plate, with the rail being fixedly secured to the top of the base. Two pivotal arms are rearward splayed out of the pivot members respectively. Two knee plates are disposed on the other ends of the arms, and each includes a wheel disposed on the rail and adapted to move therealong. A projection is disposed at a joining portion of each arm and knee plate and includes a through hole. An inverted U-shaped bridge member is adapted to insert into the through holes to interconnect the projections or not.
US08052580B2 Method and system for guiding a person in physical exercise
The invention relates to a method and system for guiding a person to a physiological cumulative state in physical exercise, in which the exercise has a physiological target in the form of a physiological state at the end of the exercise, a duration, and a performance parameter. In the method at the start of the exercise the physiological target is set, as is the value of the performance parameter, and during the exercise at regular intervals: at least one quantity proportional to the momentary intensity is measured, and the present physiological state and an estimate of the physiological state and the end of the exercise are calculated with the aid of the momentary intensity and the exercise performed, and a guidance range for the momentary intensity is defined, in order to reach the target state and the performance parameter. The user is guided by means of feedback to remain within the said guidance intensity range. At the start of the exercise the intensity guidance range is expanded according to a pre-selected function, in order to reduce the variation in the guidance.
US08052577B2 Torque converter
A torque converter having a lockup clutch or a coupling device, for selectively providing a mechanical connection between a drive unit and a drive train. The lockup clutch (C) or coupling device has a driving part connected to the drive unit and a driven part connected to the drive train. The torque converter also has a control system for applying a first pressure in a sense to cause frictional engagement between the driving part and the driven part and a second pressure in a sense to cause disengagement of the driving part and the driven part. A differential between the pressures is progressively controllable by the control system so as to control the relative positioning between the driven part and the driving part.
US08052571B2 Control device and control method for hybrid vehicle
In a hybrid vehicle that includes an engine and a motor-generator connected to the engine through a power split device, upon acceleration in a running state, there may arise a case where the rotational speed of the MG1 enters a lockup area and, then, the MG1 cannot pull out of the lockup state with ease in such a manner that the rotational speed of the MG1 is shifted from a normal rotation area to a reverse rotation area, in accordance with an increase of a torque produced by the MG1. In this case, the engine is controlled such that a torque produced by the engine is decreased. Thus, the rotational speeds of the engine and MG1 are reduced entirely, so that the MG1 can pull out of the lockup state without increasing the torque produced by the MG1 any more.
US08052569B2 Controller of power transmission
A control system for a power transmission system capable of speed change control in conformity of a deceleration demand. The transmission system includes at least two transmission units having different responsiveness to a speed change and capable of setting a speed change ratio individually, and in which a total speed change ratio is determined according to the speed change ratios of the transmission units. The control system includes a speed change control for changing a priority order to carry out a speed change operation of the individual transmission units to achieve a predetermined deceleration in conformity with a content of the deceleration demand, when the predetermined deceleration is demanded.
US08052568B2 Bicycle hub transmission
A bicycle hub transmission includes a hub axle, a driver, a hub shell, a power transmission mechanism and a shift mechanism. The driver and the hub shell are rotatably supported relative to the hub axle. The power transmission mechanism is disposed between the driver and the hub shell to selectively transmit rotational power from the driver to the hub shell through one a plurality of power transmission paths. The shift mechanism operatively couples the power transmission mechanism to select a power transmission path. The downstream planetary gear unit includes a planetary gear carrier that meshes with planetary gears of the upstream planetary gear unit or with a linking member coupled to the planetary gears of the upstream planetary gear unit. The planetary gear carrier of the downstream planetary gear unit is coupled with a brake unit to transmit a reverse rotational power from the driver to the brake unit.
US08052567B2 Multi-speed transmissions
The transmission has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least nine forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission includes four planetary gear sets, six torque-transmitting devices, and four fixed interconnections. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting devices provide interconnections between various gear members, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of three to establish at least nine forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.
US08052564B2 Differential gear unit
A differential gear unit has a pinion gear that can spin as well as revolve, a differential case that has a pinion retaining portion that supports the pinion gear, and a pair of side gears that mesh with the pinion gear. Frictional force generated at a portion where the pinion gear contacts the pinion retaining portion when the rotation speed of one side gear is faster than the rotation speed of the other side gear is different from the frictional force generated between the pinion gear and the pinion retaining portion when the rotation speed of the one side gear is slower than the rotation speed of the other side gear.
US08052562B2 Transmission for coupling a starter-generator electrical machine to an internal combustion engine
A transmission for coupling a starter-generator electrical machine to an internal combustion engine and having a transmission ratio that is a function of the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine. The ratio of the rotational speed of the electrical machine to that of the internal combustion engine can be increased at a lower rotational speed of the internal combustion engine than at a higher rotational speed of the internal combustion engine. A control device is provided for switching the transmission ratio, which is held by means of spring force in a condition in which the ratio of rotational speeds is high, and as the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine rises increases the transmission ratio is switched to a condition in which the ratio of rotational speeds is lower.
US08052560B2 Power transmission device
A power transmission device includes a pulley 1 and a hub 2 having an inner hub 21, a rubber damper 22 and an outer hub 23. A hub side engagement portion 24 formed of an elastic material and arranged at either one, or both, of an inner peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface of the outer hub engages with a pulley side engagement portion 12, which is arranged at a position corresponding to the outer hub, of the pulley in a concavo-convex fitting to thereby constitute a torque transmission structure between the hub and the pulley. The hub side engagement portion and the pulley side engagement portion have a concavo-convex outer shape and mesh with each other. A ring-like dust invasion prevention portion 28 covers a front surface of said concavo-convex fitting.
US08052559B2 Tensioner with two way damper
A tensioner for a power transmission system includes two tensioning arms operatively engaged with the strand of the chain or the belt of the power transmission system. The upper end of each tensioning arm is connected to a two way damper which is pivotally mounted between the upper ends of the tensioning arms. When a pre-determined chain tension overload threshold is reached, the amount of torque required to overcome the coefficient of friction the damper allows the tensioner to adjust the tension in the chain with minimal oscillations and minimal phase change variation.
US08052556B2 Apparatuses and methods for controlling a variable speed transmission
Methods are disclosed for controlling a variable-speed transmission utilizing a pulley structure including first and second pulley members coupled for free rotation together about a shaft. The second pulley member can be axially movable relative to the first pulley member, and can include a pulley contact surface disposed generally opposite to the first pulley member. A coupling member is provided for communicating with the shaft to rotatably drive the shaft. The coupling member includes a coupling member contact surface disposed for selective frictional engagement by the pulley contact surface. Torque can be selectively coupled and decoupled to a transmission, as well as vary a speed of the transmission.
US08052554B2 Arrow for hunting
Disclosed herein is an arrow for hunting. The arrow includes an arrow shaft having a predetermined length and including a nock on one end and a shaft threaded part in the other end. A plurality of feathers is positioned to be adjacent to the nock of the arrow shaft. A connector includes a connecting threaded part fastened to the shaft threaded part, a stopper, and a penetration threaded part. An arrowhead is connected to the connector in such a way as to be opposite to the connecting threaded part. A penetration rotary unit has a threaded part to be fastened to the penetration threaded part of the connector, is shorter than the penetration threaded part, and has wings. A spring is positioned between the stopper and the penetration rotary unit, and provides a restoring force to bias the penetration rotary unit toward the arrowhead.
US08052552B2 Toy apparatus with rattle
A toy apparatus having a surface is provided. The toy apparatus may include a mesh including a plurality of loop structures having cooperative mating surfaces disposed at least partially around an outer perimeter of each loop structure. The plurality of loop structures may have curved inside perimeter surfaces, and the cooperative mating surfaces of adjacent loop structures may be configured to couple together for a distance along their lengths. The loop structures form the surface of the toy when the cooperative mating surfaces are coupled with each other. The toy apparatus may further include a rattle positioned in a loop structure in the mesh, the rattle having a body with a mounting structure having an outer perimeter sized to conform to the curved inside perimeter surface of the loop structure in which the rattle is mounted.
US08052549B2 Lacrosse stick with improved head and shaft connections
A lacrosse stick with an improved head and shaft connection is provided. The lacrosse stick comprises a head having a throat with a mounting hole therein, an elongated shaft attached to the head, the shaft having its own mounting hole, and a plug slidably disposed partly or entirely inside the hollow shaft to reinforce the shaft/head connection. The plug is inserted into the shaft such that the plug opening is aligned with the mounting holes on the head and shaft so that a screw or other attachment means can be inserted therethrough.
US08052546B1 Basketball shooting training aid with automatically engageable wristlet couplers
A basketball shooting training aid for releasably limiting to a predetermined maximum length the span distance between a basketball player's shooting or launch hand and guide hand comprises a pair of elastic wristlet bands secureable around opposite wrists of the player. Each wristlet has protruding outwardly therefrom a flexible, longitudinally elongated stalk which has at the outer end thereof a coupler releasably engageable with the other coupler. In a preferred embodiment, each coupler includes a permanent magnet having a longitudinally outwardly extending magnetic field of opposite polarity to that of the opposite coupler, thus enabling the couplers to automatically engage when outer ends of the stalks are brought sufficiently close to each other, e.g., about 2 inches, and to automatically disengage when a tensional parting force of a predetermined value, e.g., about 6 pounds is exerted on the couplers by drawing the wrists apart.
US08052544B2 Basketball practicing apparatus
A basketball practicing apparatus includes a frame, a support bracket mounted in the frame, a drive shaft rotatably mounted on the support bracket, a backboard mounted on the drive shaft to rotate in concert with the drive shaft, and a basket ring mounted on the backboard to move in concert with the backboard. Thus, the backboard and the basket ring are rotated about the drive shaft so that the position and angle of the backboard and the basket ring can be changed arbitrarily and freely to facilitate a user practicing throwing the basketballs in different angles.
US08052543B2 Analysis system of golf ball and head information using lasers and 4 axis light sensing
An analysis system of golf ball and club head data using lasers and 4-axis light sensing is provided, which includes a horizontal sensor array including a plurality of light sensors arranged in straight lines, the horizontal sensor array receiving light from a light source; a vertical sensor array installed to protrude from the floor at a perpendicularly offset angle, the vertical sensor array receiving a laser beam from a laser; a control unit deriving position coordinates of the golf ball in space using data of the silhouette of the golf ball detected by the horizontal and vertical sensor arrays, and calculating ball speed, club head speed, a ball directional angle, a ball launch angle, a club head path, a ball quality, and a flight distance, using the position coordinates of the golf ball; and a display unit displaying the calculated values on a screen under control of the control unit.
US08052541B2 Golf club for golfer alignment
A golf club that positions a golfer to establish a desired viewpoint of a golf ball when preparing to strike the golf ball with the golf club. The golf club includes an elongated shaft, a grip provided adjacent to a proximate end of the shaft that the golfer grips to hold the golf club while striking the golf ball during a golf swing, and a club head coupled adjacent to a distal end of the shaft and including a face exposed at a surface of the head for contacting the golf ball during the golf swing. A visual indicator is provided to the club head, wherein the visual indicator is observable by the golfer to indicate that the golfer is positioned in at least one of a predetermined longitudinal direction relative to the club head and a predetermined lateral direction relative to the club head to afford the golfer the desired viewpoint of the golf ball before striking the golf ball.
US08052539B2 Swing performance analysis device
A swing performance analysis device (10) is described. The device (10) includes a sole single axis accelerometer securable to an entity (60, 70) to be swung to measure centripetal acceleration. The accelerometer is arranged to communicate with a processor (30). The processor (30) is arranged to accept one or more parameters on the swing to be analysed and measurement data on the swing from the accelerometer, the processor being operative to determine the radius of curvature of the swing calculate in dependence on the one or more parameters and to determine one or more attributes on the swing in dependence on the radius and measurement data.
US08052537B2 Wheel hub-joint unit
A wheel hub-constant velocity joint unit in which a wheel hub (60, 90) with a passage opening (59, 89) that carries inner shaft teeth (44, 74) is tensioned with the outer joint part (46, 76) of a constant velocity joint (42, 72) on which a journal (53, 83) is formed with outer shaft teeth (54, 84), wherein inner shaft teeth (44, 74) of the passage opening (59, 89) and outer shaft teeth (54, 84) of the journal (53, 83) mesh in each other and a two-row wheel bearing (43, 73) is pushed onto the wheel hub (60, 90) that includes an inner bearing ring (64, 94) on which a front face (52, 82) of the outer joint part (46, 76) is supported directly, wherein the pitch circle diameter (TKD) of the roller bearing is greater than the pitch circle diameter (PCD) of the constant velocity joint.
US08052535B2 Motor vehicle steering shaft and motor vehicle steering system
A motor vehicle steering shaft (3) is provided with: an inner shaft (11) and a tubular outer shaft (10) fitted into each other and to transmit a torque to and from each other; a rigid coupling element (25) for rigidly coupling the inner shaft (11) and the outer shaft (10) in a circumferential direction (C) of the inner shaft (11) when a relative rotation amount of the inner shaft (11) and the outer shaft (10) exceeds a predetermined range; and an elastic coupling element (36) for elastically coupling the inner shaft (11) and the outer shaft (10) in the circumferential direction (C) of the inner shaft (11) when the relative rotation amount of the inner shaft (11) and the outer shaft (10) is within the predetermined range. The elastic coupling element (36) includes a resin member (36). The inner shaft (11) and the outer shaft (10) are elastically supported mutually via the resin member (36) at a central position of the predetermined range when no torque is loaded to the steering shaft (3).
US08052532B2 Information processing method and server system
A league is formed by a given number of teams formed by a plurality of players and having an identical team level, and the teams compete for league ranking based on team points obtained in a given period. A team level of each team is changed based on the league ranking. A player plays a game using a game device to obtain the team points. When the number of teams is less than the given number when forming a league, a mirror team of the team that belongs to another league is added. The team points of the mirror team are calculated separately from the team points of the actual team to determine league ranking in the league of the mirror team. The team level of the actual team of the mirror team is changed based on the league ranking of the actual team and the league ranking of the mirror team.
US08052529B2 Gaming device for wagering on multiple game outcomes
Systems and methods for wagering on game outcomes allow a player to wager on game outcomes resulting from linked gaming devices linked to a primary gaming device being played by the player. A primary game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on a primary game and a linked game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on linked games. Both the primary and linked gaming devices may be the same type of gaming device, or they may be two different types of gaming devices, such as gaming devices for playing slot games, card games, keno, and the like. Further, either or both of the primary and linked games may allow bonus game outcomes resulting in a bonus game having bonus game awards.
US08052527B2 Calculation control method, storage medium, and game device
A plurality of first missions (mission A (M 1A), mission B (M1B), and mission C (M1C)) are set corresponding to different battle areas in a game space 2. The operations of NPCs are automatically controlled so that friend NPCs 8 and enemy NPCs 9 involved in each first mission simultaneously fight a battle in parallel. A player character 6 is automatically determined to have participated in the first mission for which the player character 6 has approached the battle area or the first mission in which the enemy NPC 9 which has been shot down by the player character 6 is involved, and individual mission support contribution points Pa, Pb, Pc, and total support contribution points Pt are increased when the player character 6 has shot down the enemy NPC 9. When the player has performed a support request operation input, the total support contribution points Pt are decreased by given points. A support character 8s is selected from surviving friend NPCs 8a and 8b involved in the first missions which have been accomplished. The support character 8s is controlled to approach the present position of the player character 6 and support the player character 6 corresponding to the type of support request.
US08052526B2 Method and apparatus for peer-to-peer wagering game
A wagering game system includes at least one server configured to generate wagering event data for presentation to players that play against each other using the wagering event data, and generate a bonus award to be provided to at least one of the players, wherein the bonus award includes at least one of a progressive jackpot and a mystery jackpot. The wagering game system also includes at least one wagering device configured to present the wagering event data to a player and receive player input from the player, and an interface device configured to communicate with the wagering device to provide wagering event data to the wagering device, and send player input from the wagering device to the server, wherein the player utilizes the wagering device to play against other players based on the wagering event data.
US08052520B2 Registration system for game item sale and a method thereof
The present invention relates to a system for registering a game item sale and a method thereof, in which location of item data is moved to a sales storage area of a predetermined inventory allocated to an operation character and registration with respect to a corresponding game item for sale is enabled to be performed. There is provided a system for registering a game item sale, comprising: an inventory maintaining at least one storage area for storing item data with respect to a game item held by an operation character; an area defining means defining at least one portion of the storage area as a sales storage area; a transaction register linking the sales storage area to a sale field of a predetermined exchange database and in response to location movement of the item data to the sales storage area, controlling the game item to be recorded in the sale field of the exchange database; and an operation control means controlling a predetermined effect to be added to the operation character in accordance with the location movement of the item data; wherein the effect is display information on the location movement of the item data.
US08052518B1 Networked gaming system
The invention provides method and article of manufacture for implementing a user profile-driven gaming and prize redeeming system. The user profile-driven gaming and prize redemption system allows for the tailoring of a user's experience of playing a computer implemented game on a network gaming system by first receiving an identifier selected from a group of identifiers including a user identifier relating to the user (i.e., player) of the network gaming system, a game identifier relating to a particular game played by the User of the network gaming system, and a site identifier relating to the location (i.e. web site) from which the game is being played. The network gaming system then alters the computer-implemented game played by the user in a manner based upon the selected identifier. The foregoing technique may also be applied to a prize redemption system.
US08052514B2 Method of playing a slot machine with location dependent symbol award values
The present invention includes a variety of methods to calculate symbol award values based upon the location of one or more predetermined symbols in the symbol matrix. In a preferred embodiment, the award value for a symbol varies according to the row in which the symbol appears. In another embodiment, the award value for symbols varies according to the relative locations of the symbols to each other in the symbol matrix.
US08052513B2 Gaming medium and gaming system using gaming medium
A gaming medium includes a wireless tag on a white side thereof, a wireless tag on a black side thereof and a high magnetic permeability member. Each wireless tag stores information to be read magnetically. The high magnetic permeability member is placed between the wireless tags, prevents a magnetic field from affecting the wireless tag on the black side at a time when the information stored in the wireless tag on the white side is magnetically read from the white side, and prevents a magnetic field from affecting the wireless tag on the white side at a time when the information stored in the wireless tag on the black side is magnetically read from the black side.
US08052508B2 Horse race gaming machine
In a horse race gaming machine 1, when a regular denomination process of S201 is executed, a regular BET image, wherein the minimum bet amount a player can specify is “1”, is displayed on a sub monitor 113 of a station 101. In the meantime, when a high denomination process of S208 is executed, a high BET image, wherein the minimum bet amount a player can specify is “2”, is displayed instead of the regular BET image, on the sub monitor 113 of the station 101. For executing the high denomination process of S208, for example, such conditions should be satisfied as the player has become an owner of any racehorse (S202: YES), and the racehorse whose owner is the player is going to run in this racing game (S202-2: YES).
US08052503B1 Toy wheeled vehicle including launching system
An amusement system and method for a new toy vehicle that provides speed and unexpected actions, at least in the context of the toy vehicle paradigm. An apparatus includes a wheeled toy vehicle having a motive system coupled to a chassis wherein the chassis includes a bottom surface nearest a rolling surface over which the motive system moves the chassis; and a launching system disposed in an aperture defined in the bottom surface, the launching system including an ejecting system, coupled to the chassis and to the motive system, for holding a ramp within the aperture and for dispensing the ramp between the bottom surface and the rolling surface while the motive system moves the chassis; wherein the ramp launches the chassis above the rolling surface when the motive system moves the chassis onto and over the ramp after the ramp is dispensed from the aperture.
US08052502B2 Illuminated artificial eye structures for toys, mannequins and the like
Simulated eye structure for plush toys, dolls, mannequins or other simulated or fanciful inanimate articles, sculptures, figurines and the like including at least one receptacle housing for a light source such as a light emitting diode. The receptacle housing has an external surface constructed as a substantially translucent cover having generally opaque regions representing iris/pupil and/or eyelid areas. The receptacle housing is provided with circuitry including a switch which may be a pressure activated type providing power to the light source. A timing circuit may be reset for circuitry activation cycles. The fabrication of the simulated eye structures with covered housings results in an inanimate article with softly illuminated eyes with uses ranging from retail advertising displays to interactive nightlights safely enjoyed by children as nighttime companions.
US08052498B2 Method of forming a color filter touch sensing substrate
A method of forming a color filter touch sensing substrate integrates touch-sensing structures/elements of a touch panel into the inner side of the color filter substrate, which faces a thin film transistor substrate, and forms patterned assistant electrodes on the surfaces of the transparent sensing pads for decreasing the equivalent resistance of the touch-sensing structures/elements. Moreover, since an adjacent transparent conductive layer and an assistant electrode layer are patterned to form the transparent sensing pads and the patterned assistant electrodes, a simplified pattern-transferring process can be applied to the transparent sensing pads and the patterned assistant electrodes, or bridge structures can be formed from the assistant electrode layer for electrically connecting between some transparent sensing pads. Therefore, the forming process is simplified.
US08052497B2 Organic light emitting device, method of manufacturing the same, and method of forming organic layer
An organic light emitting device that has improved lifespan properties by improving the characteristics of an interface between at least one of a red emissive layer, a green emissive layer or a blue emissive layer, and an electron transport layer, and a method of manufacturing the organic light emitting device.
US08052490B2 Device for electrically conductive contacting a pipe
There is provided a device for electrically conductive contacting of a pipe having a band shaped metallic clamp (2) with two end parts (6, 7), wherein the clamp is equipped with parts of a closing device (11, 13, 14) at both end parts. The device has a separator (4) made from electrically conductive material, wherein the separator is deformable under pressure and wherein the separator is attached to the inner surface of the clamp. The device further comprises insulating material (3), wherein the clamp is embedded in the insulating material leaving free the inner surface required for making contact with the pipe. Furthermore, the embedded material leaves free both end parts of the clamp enabling a direct contact between both end parts in an assembly position of the device around the pipe.
US08052488B2 Cable connector
To prevent an inflow of resin at the time of integral molding and prevent the outer shape from upsizing, there is provided a cable connector including a connector body formed of an insulating material and formed with a plurality of terminal through holes; connecting terminals fitted into the terminal through holes; a cable including a plurality of leads having end portions that are crimped to base portions of the connecting terminals respectively; and a synthetic resin bushing configured to couple the connector body, a tip end portion of the cable including the leads exposed and diverged therefrom integrally by molding. Stoppers are disposed between end portions of the leads and the connecting terminals and inside the connector body and prevent intrusion of synthetic resin as the bushing material so as not to flow from ends of the leads toward ends of the connecting terminals when coupling by molding.
US08052487B2 Electrical connector with positioning spacer engaging with terminals thereon
An electrical connector defines an insulative housing defining a mating portion having a plurality of passageways therein, a plurality of terminals separated into two distinct groups and received in the housing, and a spacer assembled to back side of the housing for fixing the leg portions of the terminals. The terminal defines a contacting portion received in the passageways, a body portion extending rearward from an end of the contacting portion and a leg portion extending downward from an end of the body portion, the body portion and the leg portion are exposed outside of the housing. The spacer has an inner face defining a pressing platform having a bottom face at least pressing the body portion of the one group of terminals.
US08052484B1 Electrical connector with offset mating surfaces
An electrical connector includes an electrically insulating body having a base mating surface and a stepped mating surface offset from the base mating surface. The electrical connector either has first and second electrically conducting pins extending from the base and stepped mating surfaces, respectively, or has first and second electrically conducting sockets extending from an interior portion of the electrically insulating body to the base and stepped mating surfaces, respectively.
US08052473B2 Electrical connector with electrostatic protection
An electrical connector includes an insulating housing defining two openings, a circuit board received in the insulating housing and formed with two sets of contacts, a cover covering the insulating housing and enclosing the circuit board except the sets of contacts, and a pair of grounding shells inserted into the openings respectively. Each of the grounding shells defines an inserting opening exposed through the opening of the insulating housing and a blocking opening received in the insulating housing. One of the grounding shells connects to a grounding unit of a cord telephone base, and the other grounding shell connects to a grounding unit of a portable wireless telephone to prevent the cord telephone base and the portable wireless telephone from electrostatic influence.
US08052472B2 Shield connector mounting structure and shield connector
A shield connector (40) includes a housing with a base (45) to be mounted into a metallic mating member. A connector fitting (51) is formed on a top side of the base (45) and a mounting projection (100) is formed on an under side of the base (45). A shield shell (140) is mounted between an inner tube (53) and an outer tube (54) of the connector fitting (51). A nut accommodating portion (110) is formed in the mounting projection (100) of the housing (41) and a nut 160 is mounted in the nut accommodating portion (110) to be freely movable in the longitudinal direction. A connecting portion (145) extends to close an opening of the nut accommodating portion (110) while being bent sideways at a rear end of the shield shell (140) in the longitudinal direction.
US08052471B1 Electrical connector with improved housings for being assembled conveniently
An electrical connector includes a front housing having a base and a tongue forwardly extending from the base, a first rear housing, a second rear housing attached to the first rear housing, and a number of contacts. Each contact has a retaining portion retained on the first or second rear housings, a contact portion forwardly extending beyond a front end of the first and second rear housings to affix to the tongue, and a tail portion extending out of the first and second rear housings. The base is sandwiched between a front side of the first and second rear housings along a thickness direction of the tongue.
US08052464B2 Connector
A connector is provided which includes a plug having a plurality of cables disposed on one side of the plug, and a socket mounted on a base substrate that is used to connect the plug. The plug includes a plate-like member and a flexible substrate fixed to the surroundings of the plate-like member. The plate-like member includes a planar portion approximately parallel to a substrate face of the base substrate, and a bent portion provided on the other side of the plug and extending in a direction approximately perpendicular to the base substrate. The socket includes a mating space which receives the bent portion from a direction approximately perpendicular to the base substrate when the plug and socket are connector-connected.
US08052462B2 Waterproof heat cycleable push-in wire connector
A push-in wire connector having at least two resilient members for generating a wire contacting force with one of the two resilient members exerting a greater contact force than the other to permit forming electrical connections to different size or types of wires by axially inserting wires into a sealant and into electrical contact engagement in the push-in wire connector to form a waterproof electrical connection in the presence of the sealant.
US08052460B1 Electrical connector assembly and adjustable receiving connector thereof
An electrical connector assembly includes a receiving connector and an insert connector. The receiving connector includes a main body and a locating plate movably attached to the main body. The main body is provided with a first flange. The locating plate is provided with a second flange formed thereon. The first flange and the second flange are spaced from each other. The insert connector includes a base and a fixing plate formed on the base. The fixing plate has a particular width and is positioned between the first flange and the second flange. The locating plate is slidable on the main body between different positions to regulate a gap defined between the first flange and the second flange, to cause the receiving connector to be able to match with the insert connector having the fixing plate of the particular width or other width.
US08052457B2 Connector with lock mechanism
A connector includes a generally rectangular socket and a generally rectangular header couplable with the socket. The header is provided with arch-shaped engaging members arranged in opposite short sides thereof, the engaging members being elastically deformable in the longitudinal direction of the header. Each of the engaging members includes a protrusion portion protruding from the header or socket in the longitudinal direction thereof. The socket includes retainer portions engageable with the respective protrusion portions of the engaging members. The engaging members are elastically deformed when the header is coupled with the socket.
US08052456B2 Shielded electrical connector
An electrical connector (100) comprises a first connector (1) and a second connector (2) electrically connected together by a printed circuit board assembly (3); a tubular shaped first shielding member (4) enclosing the printed circuit board assembly (3), partial of the first and second connector; a second shielding member (5) assembled to first shielding member and retaining the first connector and the second connector.
US08052454B2 Electrical connector with improved feature for securing solder ball thereon
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing with a number of passageways, a number of electrical contacts received in the passageways and a number of solder balls disposed on the electrical contacts respectively. The electrical contact or together with the insulative housing form a retention feature for pre-setting the solder balls thereon.
US08052438B1 Connector module
A connector module including a case, a first connector, a second connector, and a switching unit is provided. The first connector disposed in the case has a first connecting portion. The second connector slidably disposed in the case has a second connecting portion. The switching unit is connected between the second connector and the case, and drives the second connector to move along an axis between a first position and a second position. When the second connector is located at the first position, only the first connecting portion is exposed from the case. When the second connector is located at the second position, the first and the second connecting portions are close to each other and exposed from the case.
US08052437B2 Back-mount ganged electrical outlets
An electrical ganged-outlet apparatus includes a plurality of electrical outlets molded together as a unitary outlet body having a front surface and a back surface. Each of the electrical outlets has an aperture extending through the front surface, a peripheral wall and a sidewall opposing the peripheral wall, a shoulder adjacent to the front surface of the unitary outlet body and the sidewall of the electrical outlet, and an opening molded in the sidewall adjacent to the shoulder and in communication with the aperture. The shoulder is constructed and arranged to engage a latching member attached to the electrical inlet connector when the electrical inlet connector is inserted into the aperture. The opening in the sidewall extends from the shoulder through the back surface, and is constructed and arranged to receive the latching member to retain the electrical inlet connector within the aperture.
US08052436B1 Electrical connector with stable retaining terminals
An electrical connector includes an insulating body, having a plurality of receiving slots running through the insulating body; a plurality of terminals respectively received in the receiving slots; and a plurality of solder balls, in which each of the solder balls is disposed corresponding to each terminal and each receiving slot. Each terminal includes a base, a first retaining portion formed by extending downwards the base, a second retaining portion and a third retaining portion formed by bending and extending two side surfaces of the first retaining portion, and a groove formed at one end of the first retaining portion away from the base.
US08052432B1 Circuit board structure for circuit board module
A circuit board structure used to assemble a connector includes a circuit board and a jack for assembling the connector. The jack includes a base board and a number of latching members. The latching members latch the base board to the circuit board. Each latching member includes a main portion and at least one bent portion. The main portion resisting the circuit board. The bent portion holds the base board toward the circuit board.
US08052430B2 Cable assembly having connector with interior printed circuit board facilitating termination
A cable assembly includes an insulated housing (100) and a plurality of contacts (10) received therein, each contact having a tail portion extending beyond rear surface of the insulated housing; a printed circuit board (2) having a front portion and an opposite rear portion, with a plurality of conductive traces (220) arranged on the front portion and a number of conductive pads (240, 242) arranged on the rear portion. The tail portions of the contacts are soldered to the conductive traces of the front portion of the printed circuit board. The conductive pads on the rear portion of the printed circuit board are separated into at least two groups and connecting to two kinds of cables (4), selectively. A cover (9) is mold over a rear portion of the connector and a front portion of corresponding cable.
US08052427B2 Connector assembly for coupling an electric motor to a power source
A connector assembly is provided for coupling an electric motor to a power source, wherein the power source comprises a first conductive member. The connector assembly comprises a non-conductive member having an inner channel configured to receive at least a portion of the first conductive member, a second conductive member slidably disposed within the inner channel, coupled to the electric motor, and configured to be coupled to, and to receive a force having a first direction from, the first conductive member, and a spring member, retained between the non-conductive member and the second conductive member and configured to resist movement of the second conductive member in the first direction.
US08052426B2 System for scheduling classes and managing educational resources
A method is provided for automatically producing a schedule of classes for an educational institution having a plurality of teachers, a plurality of students, and a curriculum. The method preferably includes receiving designations of a plurality of curriculum modules of the curriculum, each curriculum module including educational material, one or more of the curriculum modules being prerequisite modules for one or more subsequent modules. The method also preferably includes receiving, as an input into a computer system, curriculum information comprising an indication of which of the modules are prerequisite modules for subsequent modules. An input into the computer system includes student information comprising, for one or more of the plurality of students, an indication of his level of competence with respect to the educational material of one or more modules. The computer system preferably produces a schedule of classes for teaching the educational material of at least some of the modules responsive to the curriculum information and the student information. Educational material to be taught in each of the scheduled classes includes the educational material of a respective one of the curriculum modules. The students assigned to each of the scheduled classes have preferably attained at least a predetermined level of competence with respect to the educational material of the respective modules that are prerequisite modules for the module to be taught in the class.
US08052422B2 Dental implant
A dental implant includes a dental implant body which is a cylinder body having a first end and a second end, an asymmetric thread being provided around the dental implant body, an apex lock being formed at the first end for inserting into a sinus of a desired position, and an endomaximum lock being provided at the second end for integrally connected with an abutment through a bolt. The apex lock is a space indented in the first end for enabling new grown bone of the sinus extending into the apex lock to provide a locking mechanism to ensure integration between the dental implant and the bone. The endomaximum lock has a lock cavity having a lock opening at the second end for receiving a root of the abutment therein.
US08052421B2 Dispensing syringe having multiple barrels for discharging a dental composition
A dispensing syringe for dispensing a multi-component dental composition, preferably a two component composition, is provided. The syringe includes a syringe body with multiple elongated barrels for storing the components of the composition; a threaded plunger rod assembly; and a rotatable, threaded connector knob. Preferably, the syringe body has a double-barrel structure and the plunger rod assembly includes two plunger rods that slide within the barrels. The threaded knob has a through-bore with a continuous internal thread for engaging the outer threads of the first and second plunger rods. A dental practitioner manually rotates the knob to displace the first and second plunger rods and discharge the components. The dispensing syringe may further include a dispensing tip containing a static mixing element for mixing the components and dispensing the mixed composition.
US08052420B2 Apparatus and method for adjusting orthodontic wire
A handheld apparatus for adjusting orthodontic wire includes first and second handle portions and a jaw portion. The first handle portion pivotably couples to the second handle portion such that the first and second handle portions are capable of pivoting with respect to each other at a pivot axis. The jaw portion extends from the first and second handle portions. The jaw portion includes: a first prong extending from the first handle portion; and second and third prongs extending from the second handle portion. The second and third prongs each include: a respective inner surface that partially defines a slot between the second and third prongs; and first and second outer surfaces joined together by a transition region.
US08052419B1 Closed loop temperature heat up and control utilizing wafer-to-heater pedestal gap modulation
Methods and apparatuses that decouple wafer temperature from pre-heat station residence time, thereby improving wafer-to-wafer temperature uniformity, are provided. The methods involve maintaining a desired temperature by varying the distance between the wafer and a heater. In certain embodiments, the methods involve rapidly approaching a predetermined initial distance and then obtaining and maintaining a desired final temperature using closed loop temperature control. In certain embodiments, a heated pedestal supplies the heat. The wafer-pedestal gap may be modulated may be varied by moving the heated pedestal and/or moving the wafer, e.g., via a movable wafer support. Also in certain embodiments, the closed loop control system includes a real time wafer temperature sensor and a servo controlled linear motor for moving the pedestal or wafer support.
US08052416B2 Injection nozzle and molding apparatus
Provided is an injection nozzle and a molding apparatus which ensure injection pressure by suppressing resin leakage even when a resin material having a low viscosity is used. In injection molding, it is especially important that the injection nozzle and a fixed die are excellently kept in contact with each other and that the resin is not leaked. Resin leakage from between the injection nozzle and the fixed die lowers molding pressure, increases molding shrinkage of the resin, and directly affects the qualities of a molded product resulting in generation of a sink, transfer failure and the like. Since an O-ring in a circumferential groove of the nozzle closely comes in contact with a concave spherical surface while elastically transforming on the entire circumference, leakage is effectively suppressed even the resin is a heat-curable resin having a low viscosity.
US08052415B2 Mold having a coaxial cooling and heating coil structure
The present invention relates to a coaxial cooling/heating coil structure and a mold configured with the same, in which the coaxial cooling/heating coil is comprised of: a frame, configured with a cooling channel having an inlet, provided for a cooling water to flow therein, and an outlet, provided for discharging the cooling water therefrom; and a heat-conducting coil, disposed inside the cooling channel. The coaxial cooling/heating structure is fitted to a mold to be used for enhancing the preheating efficiency of the mold while improving the time required for cooling the mold.
US08052413B2 Imprint device
An improved imprint device is disclosed. It comprises a drive component, an imprinting object, and at least one mold, stacked together within a chamber, a fluid supplier is used for providing the solvent fluid into the chamber through a pipe. The solvent fluid will permeate the imprinting object, and the imprinting object will be plasticized at the temperature lower than the glass transition temperature. The drive component is used for driving the mold to the plasticized imprinting object, so that the pattern on the mold will be imprinted on the imprinting object. It is the advantage of the present invention to reduce the process temperature, prevent the pattern distortion, and save the process time. Furthermore, by using the fluid and a barrier film as a pressing medium, the pressure can be applied to the object and the mold uniformly, such that a large area imprint can be achieved.
US08052411B2 Die for forming honeycomb structure
A plate-like shape die 1 for forming a honeycomb structure provided with an introduction portion 3 having plural back holes on one side face (an introduction side) thereof and a formation portion provided with silts 6 communicating with plural back holes 7 on other side face thereof; using for forming a honeycomb shape with passing raw materials being introduced from back holes 7 of an introduction portion 3 through silts 6 being provided on the forming portion 2, wherein the introduction portion 3 is composed of two layers of a plate-like abrasion portion 5 constituting an introduction face 8, and an introduction portion main body 4 located between the abrasion portion 5 and the forming portion 2, and the abrasion portion 5 is detachably disposed on the introduction portion main body 4.
US08052409B2 Device for molding an air mat
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an air mat that reduces the number of manufacturing processes by means of rotational molding, while preventing the generation of defective products, to a device for molding an air mat, and to an air mat manufactured and molded by the method and device. In a method for manufacturing an air mat formed in such a manner as to integrally couple a cushion part having a plurality of air bags arranged therein for containing air at the insides thereof with a plate-shaped lower sheet disposed on the lower surface of the cushion part, the method includes the steps of: preparing a lower mold having a plurality of air bag molding recesses having given depths arranged at given intervals thereon, for molding the cushion part of the air mat.
US08052407B2 Electrospinning in a controlled gaseous environment
Apparatus and method for producing fibrous materials in which the apparatus includes an electrospinning element configured to electrospin a substance from which the fibers are to be composed by an electric field extraction of the substance from a tip of the electrospinning element, a collector disposed from the electrospinning element and configured to collect the fibers, a chamber enclosing the collector and the electrospinning element, and a control mechanism configured to control a gaseous environment in which the fibers are to be electrospun.
US08052406B2 Scroll machine having improved discharge valve assembly
A valve retainer is provided for securably retaining a discharge valve assembly within a recess formed in a scroll. The valve retainer can be installed between the recess of the non-orbital scroll and the discharge valve assembly to retain the discharge valve assembly at the recess. The valve retainer can include a ring-like body having inwardly and/or outwardly extending tangs for cooperating with structure formed on the respective valve and the recess of the non-orbital scroll.
US08052401B2 Double-acting radial piston hydraulic apparatus
A hydraulic apparatus comprises a housing having a central axis; a plurality of radially-oriented piston-cylinder assemblies each including a cylinder supported by the housing and a piston movable within the cylinder, the piston separating radially inner and outer chambers within the cylinder; and valving and associated flow passages for individually controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the radially inner and outer chambers of each piston-cylinder assembly. The piston-cylinder assemblies are mounted to the housing for pivotal movement by trunnions provided with flow passages for connecting the piston-cylinder assemblies to inlet and outlet ports via the valving and porting.
US08052399B2 Peristaltic pump
A peristaltic pump is presented comprising a housing and a rotor assembly supported by the housing. An occlusion bed is slideably mounted in the housing. A door is pivotable about a shaft, which is supported by the housing. A pinion gear is coupled to the shaft and engages a rack on the occlusion bed. Rotation of the shaft causes the occlusion bed to slide toward or away from the rotor assembly. An open portion of a tube retaining system is associated with the housing and a clamping portion of the tube retaining system is associated with the door. The open portion and the clamping portion of the tube retaining system are configured to secure flexible tubing therebetween when the door is in a closed position.
US08052398B2 Reciprocating gas compressor with speed modulation of compressor driver for pulsation avoidance
A method for reducing pulsation in a gas compressor system. The compressor driver (engine or motor) is operated at a modulated engine speed. The average of the modulated speed is selected to achieve a desired pipeline flow. The modulation characteristics are determined to optimally reduce the pulsation response of the compressor system.
US08052397B2 Polygon rotor attachment device
A rotor and shaft assembly for turbomachinery has a polygon shaped drive collar interposed between corresponding polygonal mating surfaces of a drive shaft and a rotor hub. The mating surfaces of the polygon collar, the drive shaft and the rotor hub may be sized both axially and radially for required torque transmission without the need for hub inserts or oversized shafts. The polygon drive collar is manufacturable using standard machine tools such as lathes and end mills that remove metal in a tool path following not more than two axes of simultaneous movement. A shaft end assembly secures the rotor and drive collar to the shaft.
US08052395B2 Air cooled bucket for a turbine
A bucket for a turbine is provided. The bucket includes an airfoil having a root portion, a tip portion, an airfoil shape, and a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y, and Z set forth in Table I, wherein Z is a distance from a platform on which the airfoil extends outwardly from, and X and Y are coordinates defining the profile at each distance Z from the platform. The bucket also includes a plurality of cooling passages extending between the root portion and tip portion of the airfoil, each of the plurality of cooling passages exiting at the tip portion, the plurality of cooling passages positioned in a camber line pattern.
US08052393B2 Steam turbine rotating blade for a low pressure section of a steam turbine engine
A steam turbine rotating blade for a low pressure section of a steam turbine engine is disclosed. The steam turbine rotating blade includes an airfoil portion. A root section is attached to one end of the airfoil portion. A dovetail section projects from the root section, wherein the dovetail section includes a straight axial entry dovetail. A tip section is attached to the airfoil portion at an end opposite from the root section. A cover is integrally formed as part of the tip section. The cover has a first portion that overhangs a pressure side of the airfoil portion and a second portion that overhangs a suction side of the airfoil portion. The cover is positioned at an angle relative to the tip section, wherein the angle ranges from about 15 degrees to about 35 degrees.
US08052384B2 Centrifugal pump with segmented diffuser
A centrifugal pump with a volute and at least one stage with an associated impeller and removable diffuser assembly comprises: multiple diffuser segments, each diffuser segment comprising a central passage from an inner curvilinear surface to an outer curvilinear surface and a curvilinear leading engagement surface between a leading end of its curvilinear inner surface and its curvilinear outer surface; multiple curvilinear volute mounting surfaces within the volute, each curvilinear mounting surface receiving a corresponding diffuser segment to mount the diffuser segments in a generally annular pattern about the impeller to form the removable diffuser assembly, with the curvilinear inner surface of each diffuser segment proximate an outer periphery of the impeller and the curvilinear leading engagement surface of each diffuser segment engaging a trailing portion of the curvilinear outer surface of an adjacent one of the diffuser segments; and a volute connecting passage within the volute for coupling the central passages of each diffuser segment to a pump outlet.
US08052376B2 Turbo-molecular pump, substrate processing apparatus, and method for suppressing attachment of depositions to turbo-molecular pump
A turbo-molecular pump that enables reliable suppression of attachment of depositions onto component parts thereof. The turbo-molecular pump discharges a deposition-causing gas from a processing chamber. A rotor has a rotor shaft aligned with an exhaust stream. A cylindrical casing houses the rotor therein. A plurality of blade-form rotor blades projects from the rotor orthogonally with respect to the rotor shaft and are divided into a plurality of rotor blade groups. A plurality of blade-form stator blades projects orthogonally with respect to the rotor shaft from a rotor-facing surface and are divided into a plurality of stator blade groups. Gas supply ports are located on an upstream side of the rotor blade group that is located furthest downstream in the exhaust stream, and supply a deposition-suppressing gas which includes gas molecules having a large molecular weight.
US08052375B2 Fluidic sealing for turbomachinery
Disclosed is a seal for turbomachinery including a seal face locatable between a first turbomachinery component and a second turbomachinery component. At least one fluid channel extends through the seal. The at least one fluid channel is capable of injecting fluid flow between the first turbomachinery component and the second turbomachinery component at the seal face thereby disrupting a leakage flow between the first turbomachinery component and the second turbomachinery component. Further disclosed is a turbomachine utilizing the seal.
US08052374B2 Cut-off construction for transverse fan assemblies that have elongated fan blades of arcuate cross-section
A cut-off construction for a transverse fan assembly, including for use with agricultural combine harvesters, to permit the transverse fan assembly to be operated to provide increased air flow volume at a lower rotational fan speed, which cut-off construction includes generally planar inner surfaces on first and second body portions that are positioned laterally to one another along the top of the output throat of the air plenum of the transverse fan assembly between the outer periphery of the fan and a baffle construction of the transverse fan, such that the inner surface of the first body portion is disposed at a cut-off inclination angle α, dependent upon certain parameters of the fan, and the inner surfaces of the first and second body portions intersect with one another in such a way that an upper wall for the output throat is formed by the cut-off construction and by the baffle construction of the fan assembly, which upper wall has a concavity formed therein and therealong near the outer periphery of the fan that effects a shift of the steering vortex of the fan in such a way as to permit the fan to operate with increased air flow volume at lower rotational fan speed.
US08052373B2 Multi-rotational crankshaft arrangement
A control mechanism for moving at least two components of a gas turbine engine, the control mechanism comprises first and second crankshafts and a torsion bar connected to both crankshafts, each crankshaft is connected to a different component, the crankshafts engage one another via one-way abutment means and the torsion bar is pre-twisted so that up to a predetermined rotational extent the two crankshafts rotate together and beyond that extent only the first crankshaft rotates, thereby one of the two components moves more than the other component.
US08052372B1 Wind turbine
A wind driven turbine device is disclosed that includes a housing having an air inlet and an air outlet, a turbine rotor having a plurality of radially distributed turbine rotor blades mounted in the housing for rotation in direct response to atmospheric wind to thereby generate rotary power, a baffle arrangement is also provided for directing wind through the housing from the air inlet to contact the turbine rotor blades from behind as internal driving wind. The rotor is mounted in a manner such that the rotor blades are driven both by a combination of direct external wind and internally directed wind.
US08052369B2 Device for storing tubulars and devices for handling of tubulars
Device for storing tubular on a drilling and/or production installation, comprising a shaft (8, 9, 10, 11) to accommodate a plurality of tubular in a substantially vertical position and a guide (15, 22) that is moveable above the shaft (8, 9, 10, 11). The device comprises means for displacing the guide (15, 22) in a substantially horizontal plane to a position above a selected one of all the tubular in the shaft. Also described are a catwalk (12) configured to displace the tubular in an axial direction through a V-door in the derrick (5), and which is further configured to be tilted into a substantially vertical position to receive or deliver a tubular, and a knuckle boom crane (7) with a grapple (27) that is adapted to grip an upper end of a substantially vertical tubular and carry the tubular in a substantially vertical orientation.
US08052362B2 Main shaft device and machine tool with the same
A machine tool including a bed; a work table horizontally movable on the bed; a column extending from the bed; a spindle head movable on the column; an outer cylinder attached inside the spindle head; a stator of a built-in motor; and a spindle sub-cartridge. The spindle sub-cartridge includes a vertical rotating shaft; a front side bearing having an inner ring fitted to a front end of the rotating shaft and an outer ring fitted to a front housing; a rotor of the built-in motor; a rear side bearing having an inner ring fitted to a rear end of the rotating shaft and an outer ring fitted to a bearing sleeve. The movable range of the spindle head in the vertical direction is longer than a length necessary for inserting the spindle sub-cartridge into the spindle head. The spindle sub-cartridge is can be disassembled and assembled integrally with respect to the spindle head.
US08052356B2 Hole saw system with improved slug removability
There is provided a hole saw system comprising a hole saw including a bottom portion and a body portion; a mandrel, including apparatus for receiving the hole saw; wherein the hole saw includes a plurality of slot pairs, the slot pairs being offset from each other on the body portion allowing a tool to be inserted into one of the slot pairs for removal of a slug.
US08052353B2 System and method for mine roof counter bore and cable bolt head securement therein
A mine roof support includes a plate having a raised portion with an opening, and a mine and roof bolt, e.g. a barrel having a drive end and an opposite second end, and wedge assembly. The plate mates with a recess in a mine roof. In one embodiment, the second end of the barrel extends through the opening in the dome into a bore hole in the mine roof. In another embodiment, a second end of the mine bolt is contoured to match and fill the inner contour of the dome. A drill bit tool used to shape the recess includes a first bit, a second bit, and a third bit between the first and second bits to drill a bore hole, enlarge the end of the bore hole to receive the second end of the mine bolt, and to drill the recess.
US08052348B2 Erosion control system
An erosion control wall system is provided and methods of making it that protect a bank, beach or bluff from soil/sand erosion. The erosion control system includes a plurality of wall members, each formed to have a front face that dissipates and deflects the energy from oncoming waves and a rear face with a stabilizing member extending therefrom for securing the wall member in position along a bank or bluff, or in the water adjacent to a bank, bluff or beach for example. The wall sections are self-stabilizing by action of sand, gravel and/or stone flowing over the wall section and anchoring the stabilizing member. The erosion control wall sections may be constructed on-site using slip form construction methods.
US08052344B2 Resin component and image forming apparatus
A biodegradable plastic of a screw-fastened portion which remains on a metal component can be decomposed and dissolved by immersing in a degradative enzyme while being joined with the metal component. Further, since the amount of the biodegradable plastic is small and a shape such as a groove is provided which can increase a contact area with the degradative enzyme, decomposition can be completed in a short time.
US08052341B2 Interlocked roll type apparatus
An interlocked roll type apparatus comprises: a first spool, two first flanges, a second spool, and two second flanges. The first flange has a first surface, a second surface, and a first periphery surface. The first surface has a first round protruding part. The first periphery surface has at least a first arc part, and the first arc part has a first arc protruding part protruding from the first surface. The second flange has a third surface, a fourth surface, and a second periphery surface. The second periphery surface has at least a second arc part having a second arc protruding part protruding from the third surface. The second arc part and the second arc protruding part are fastened with the first round protruding part of the first flange. The fourth surface has a second arc trench part for fastened with the first arc protruding part of the first flange.
US08052340B2 Imaging apparatus
A light quantity adjuster includes: a blade member forming an aperture; a stepping motor that moves the blade member to open/close the aperture; and a control section that controls driving of the stepping motor, and increases a rotational speed of the stepping motor after a resistance acting on the stepping motor changes from static friction to dynamical friction in case of closing the aperture.
US08052339B2 Operating room universal disposable camera cover and adapter system
A surgical room camera replacement cover assembly comprising a universal adapter interface unit and substantially rigid, disposable, universal camera cover detachably coupled with the universal adapter interface unit.
US08052337B2 Optical module
An optical module (1) including a light receiving/emitting element (3) for transmitting or receiving an optical signal, an optical waveguide (2) having a core part made of a material with translucency and a clad part made of a material having an index of refraction different from an index of refraction of the core part for optically coupling with the light receiving/emitting element (3) and transmitting the optical signal, and a package (5) for accommodating at least one end including an entrance/exit port (2c) of the optical signal in the optical waveguide (2) and the light receiving/emitting element (3); wherein a surface on a side facing a bottom plate mounted with the light receiving/emitting element (3) in the package (5) at the end of the optical waveguide (2) accommodated in the package (5) is configured by a first region including a portion projected into a space inside the package (5), and a second region different from the first region; and the package (5) includes a supporting part (5a) for supporting one part of at least one side of the surface forming the first region in the first region, and supporting one part of at least two sides of the surface forming the second region in the second region.
US08052334B2 Field installable ferrule and tool and method for installing optical fibers in the ferrule using the tool
A field-installable multi-fiber ferrule has two portions and one portion has optical fibers already secured therein. The second portion receives optical fibers to mate with the secured optical fibers. A tool is provided to assist in inserting the optical fibers into the multi-fiber ferrule by aligning and holding the optical fibers while they are secured in the multi-fiber ferrule.
US08052328B2 Bearing device with sliding bearing
A sliding bearing includes a metal part formed by electroforming on an inner periphery of the sliding bearing and an oil feeding mechanism for supplying oil to the bearing gap. As a result, oil retained by the oil feeding mechanism is supplied to the bearing gap, so the lubricity between the bearing and the shaft member is improved by an oil film formed in the bearing gap. This makes it possible to avoid the generation of noise due to defective lubrication and wear of members due to the contact sliding between the bearing and the shaft member.
US08052326B2 Linear bearing
A bearing (1) having a frame (2), the frame at least partly surrounding two matrices (12, 16), each of a plurality of spheres (10) which are mounted for rotation so that the spheres in each matrix when the matrix is flat lie in a substantially single plane, the plane of one matrix being parallel to that of the other, the spheres of one matrix are so located that they mostly lie against the spheres on the other matrices so that rotation of the spheres of one matrix results in counter-rotation of spheres of the other matrix; the bearing formed in such a way enables the beating to be pushed or pulled under an object such as a patient lying on the ground with little or no movement transmitted to the object/patient as the bearing moves between the object and an underlying surface. The bearing can also be used for massaging a patient who is unable to move his or her body or for bearings with civil engineering applications.
US08052323B2 Watch with recessed rotatable bezel and manually positionable guard member
A wristwatch is equipped with a case band, a bezel, and a guard. The case band has a circular upwardly directed protrusion to which a transparent dial cover is mounted, a surrounding wall portion forming between itself and the upwardly directed protrusion an arrangement groove extending along this protrusion, and open portions for bezel operation. The bezel having manual holding asperities facing the open portions is rotatably supported in the outer periphery of the upwardly directed protrusion, and arranged in the arrangement groove while forming between itself and the surrounding wall portion a gap extending along the surrounding wall portion. There is arranged in the gap the guard, which is engaged with a detachment preventing portion of the surrounding wall portion and moved in the peripheral direction of the bezel; the guard is movable between a use position where it closes the open portions and obstructs manual holding of the manual holding asperities and a retreated position where it opens the open portions to enable manual holding of the manual holding asperities. The guard is retained at the use position by a positioning means.
US08052322B2 Process for control of a system for metering and mixing a product with several components, as well as this metering and mixing system
The system comprises a first alternating pump (1) for injecting a dose of a first component (4) into a mixer (3) and a second alternating pump (2) for injecting a dose of a second component (5) into the mixer (3) sequentially relative to the first pump. The movement of the piston of each pump can be reversed from a direction of suction and expulsion of the pump to a direction of expulsion of the corresponding component, and vice versa. An injection valve (10, 11) is inserted between each pump (1, 2) and the mixer (3). The system also comprises a programmed controller (20) for initiating the movement of the piston of a pump in the direction of suction and expulsion of the volume of this pump after having determined, following the closing of the injection valve (10, 11), that the remaining volume in the pump (1, 2) is inadequate for injecting the following dose into the mixer (3).
US08052321B2 Light emitting apparatus and light unit having the same
Provides are a light emitting apparatus and a light unit having the same. The light emitting apparatus comprises a light emitting device comprising a light emitting element and a plurality of external leads, and a plurality of electrode pads under the light emitting device.
US08052316B2 Lighting device and display device employing the same
A lighting device and a display device are provided. The lighting device includes: a light source; a light dividing member; and a beam shaper. The light dividing member includes a light receiving surface, on which light is incident, and divides the incident light into a plurality of light beam groups each having a predetermined width and interval therebetween. The beam shaper is disposed between the light source and the light dividing member. Light from the light source is incident on the beam shaper, and light emitted form the beam shaper is parallel and has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the shape of the light receiving surface of the light dividing member.
US08052313B2 Combination LED lamp
The present invention relates to a combination lamp which combines at least two different lamp components in a unitary configuration, preferably reducing the total amount of space taken up for the same amount of illumination produced. The combination lamps are preferably suitable for use on vehicles, light fixtures, lamps, decorative articles, etc., and each lamp component preferably has a power connection element independent from the other lamp components.
US08052311B2 Pull-down self-supportive lighting mounted on hand-reachable ceilings
Pull-down self-supportive lighting device mounted on hand-reachable ceilings, the lighting device comprising retracting unit (25), illuminating unit (23), and gooseneck (41) connected between units (25) and (23). Retracting unit (25) is mounted above an opening on the ceiling. Illuminating unit (23) has a retracted position adjacent to retracting unit (25). Gooseneck (41) has a predetermined internal structure and a bendability and rigidity balance that allows its winding inside retracting unit (25) while being able to hold illuminating unit (23) fixed in place. As a user pulls down finger-handle (31), gooseneck (41) unwinds allowing illuminating unit (23) to take a multitude of pull-down lighting position targeting the viewing area. With a press of pushbutton (29), retracting unit (25) pulls up illuminating unit (23) towards the retracted position wherein the user snaps it in with one hand.
US08052308B2 Light source having wavelength converter and wavelength separating member for reflecting converted light
A light source includes a light source unit which supplies first wavelength light, a wavelength converting unit which converts the first wavelength light into second wavelength light different from the first wavelength light, and a leakage preventing unit which prevents leakage of the first wavelength light out of the light source. The area where the light source unit and the wavelength converting unit are disposed is optically separated from the area where the leakage preventing unit is disposed.
US08052307B2 Lens and light emitting apparatus having the same
Provided are a lens and a light emitting apparatus comprising the lens. The light emitting apparatus comprises a substrate, a light emitting device package on the substrate, and a lens supported by the substrate, the lens being disposed on the light emitting device package. The lens comprises a lens body comprising a first recessed part at a central portion of a top surface thereof and a second recessed part at a central portion of a bottom surface thereof and a lens support disposed on the bottom surface of the lens body to support the lens body such that the bottom surface of the lens body is spaced from the substrate.
US08052306B2 Electronic apparatus
An electronic apparatus includes: a cover having an optically-transparent base and a shielding film for making an inside invisible; and a substrate disposed inside and covered by the cover, the substrate being mounted with a light emitting element for emitting light toward the cover and a touch sensor disposed at a position surrounding the light emitting element to detect a touch of an outer surface of the cover by a finger. The electronic apparatus further includes an icon board disposed at a position between the substrate and the cover and having a light transmitting section formed to define an outline of light emitted by the light emitting element toward the cover. The shielding film shows light emitted by the light emitting element and passing through the icon board.
US08052301B2 LED lamp
An LED lamp includes a bracket, a supporting plate mounted on the bracket, and a plurality of LED modules mounted on the supporting plate. The bracket includes a bottom plate, two sidewalls and two engaging portions. The two sidewalls respectively connect to two opposite sides of the bottom plate and extend upwardly from the bottom plate. Two protruded portions respectively obliquely extend from inner surfaces of the two sidewalls to define two grooves therebelow, respectively. The supporting plate has two opposite sides respectively slidably received in the grooves. A bottom surface of the supporting plate thermally contacts with a top surface the bottom plate. The LED modules are mounted on a top surface of the supporting plate.
US08052292B2 Flash assembly having connecting members on circuit board to electrically connected to flash unit
A flash assembly includes a circuit board unit, a flash unit, and a housing. The circuit board unit includes a circuit board and two connecting members electrically disposed on the circuit board. Each connecting member defines a gap. The flash unit includes a reflector and a flash tube received in the reflector and electrically connected to the reflector. The flash tube includes two power electrodes received in the corresponding gaps and electrically connected to the circuit board by the connecting members. The flash unit and the circuit board unit are received in the housing.
US08052290B2 Rear-projection-type display apparatus
A rear-projection-type display apparatus projects an image formed by a display element with a light beam emitted from a light source on a screen that is larger than the display element through a projection lens. The rear-projection-type display apparatus includes a reflective optical-element group having at least two reflecting mirrors provided between the projection lens and the screen to deflect a light from the projection lens.
US08052289B2 Mirror array for lithography
A mirror array apparatus includes a carrier configured to support a plurality of individually adjustable reflective elements. At least one actuator is associated with each reflective element, the actuator being configured to adjust the orientation or position of the associated reflective element. The apparatus further includes a liquid in contact with at least a portion of the reflective elements.
US08052288B2 Projector
A projector includes: a light source device; an optical modulation device; a projection optical device; and an exterior casing, wherein a luminous flux passage opening for allowing the image light projected magnified from the projection optical device to pass through is formed in a first surface of the exterior casing, the projection optical device includes an aspheric mirror which reflects the image light to the first surface side, and magnifies and projects the image light via the luminous flux passage opening, and the exterior casing is provided with a transmissive member which closes the luminous flux passage opening; and a cover which, being movably attached to the first surface, moves between a closed position in which the transmissive member is covered and an open position in which the transmissive member is exposed.
US08052285B2 Projection display having improved light shielding bodies for adjusting the amount of light applied to a light valve therein
The invention provides a projection display that achieves continuous light amount control with ease and without causing unevenness of illumination of light applied to a light valve responsive to a video signal, thereby allowing constant image display with satisfactory contrast. The projection display of the invention includes a light valve (2); a light source (3a) generating light applied to the light valve (2); an integrator lens (4) provided on an optical path between the light source (3a) and the light valve (2) and making uniform the illumination distribution of light applied from the light source (3a) to the light valve (2); and a light amount control system (9) provided on the optical path and including a turning mechanism (9a) which turns like a set of double doors in order to adjust the amount of light applied from the light source (3a) to the light valve (2). The turning mechanism (9a) is bent into a V shape in a direction to reduce the amount of light (to block the light).
US08052280B2 Laser display device branching a modulated laser beam that scans both beams to the same position at the same time on a screen
A laser display device, which is capable of ensuring the safety of a person's eyes and reducing speckle noise even when a screen is arranged at an arbitrary position, includes a laser light source emitting a laser light, a modulator modulating the laser light and emitting a modulated light, and a branching unit branching the modulated light into a plurality of branched lights. Further, at least two of the plurality of branched lights reach same positions on a screen at substantially same timings.
US08052279B2 Light source module and projector using same
The present disclosure provides a light source module including three light source units each comprising a light source and respectively emitting light of different color. At least one light source unit of the three light source units is a first light source unit. Each first light source unit further includes a rotatable light converter located on the light path of the light emitted from the light source The rotatable light converter is covered with fluorescent powder. The fluorescent powder is located on the light path of the light emitted from the light source, and configured for converting the emitted light from the light source into light of different color when the fluorescent powder is stimulated by the emitted light. The present disclosure also provides a digital light processing projector with the light source module.
US08052274B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus, ink-jet copier and recording medium
A containing member contains a recording medium which has a base member and granular material coated on both sides of the base member, and roughness of the surfaces of the coated granular material is smaller than the roughness of the base member. A printing unit includes an ink-jet recording head which jets recording liquid onto the recording medium. A conveyance unit and a conveyance path convey the recording medium, one side of which has been already printed, into the printing unit again in order to print image onto the other side thereof. A unit is provided for enabling the printing unit to print image on the recording medium such that the vertical orientations of the images printed both sides of the recording medium are coincide with each other.
US08052273B2 Ink jet recording apparatus
An ink jet recording apparatus has an ink jet head mounted for movement in a scanning direction to record on a surface of a recording medium using an active ray curing type ink. An active ray irradiation device is disposed adjacent to the ink jet head for irradiating an active ray to cure the ink on the surface of the recording medium. A plate is mounted to undergo movement in the scanning direction of the inkjet head for preventing an active ray from the active ray irradiation device and reflected by the platen from entering in ink discharge surface of the ink jet head. The plate is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the recording medium and in an arbitrary position between a surface lying substantially on the same plane as the surface of the recording medium and the ink discharge surface of the ink jet head. A plate position adjusting mechanism and a head position adjusting mechanism are provided for moving the plate and the ink jet head, respectively, in a direction orthogonal to the recording medium.
US08052272B2 Fluid-ejection device having rollers
A first roller has a first roller center line; a second roller has a second roller center line. Fluid-ejection mechanisms eject fluid onto the media as the media is rolled past the rollers, and include first mechanisms and second mechanisms. The first mechanisms include first and second printheads, at least substantially equally between which a first positioning line is defined. The second mechanisms include third and fourth printheads, at least substantially equally between which a second positioning line is defined. The fluid-ejection mechanisms are disposed opposite to the roller and are positioned such that the first and second positioning lines are located between the first and second roller center lines, the first and the third printheads are not completely located between the first and the second roller center lines, and the second and the fourth printheads are completely located between the first and the second roller center lines.
US08052269B2 Jettable inks with reduced frothing
An ink includes a jettable vehicle including a surfactant, and a color component dispersed in the jettable vehicle. According to one exemplary embodiment, the jettable vehicle exhibits a froth half life of less than 100 minutes.
US08052264B2 Melting device for increased production of melted ink in a solid ink printer
A solid ink printer is enabled to eject ink onto image substrates at rates that are greater than previously known solid ink printers. The solid ink printer includes a print head that ejects melted ink, a web of image substrate that moves past the print head to receive melted ink ejected from the print head, a pair of fixing rollers positioned downstream of the print head, the fixing rollers forming a nip through which the web of image substrate passes to fix the ink onto the web of image substrate, and a melting device coupled to the print head to provide melted ink to the print head. The melting device includes a housing having an opening to receive solid ink, a first rotatable member mounted within the housing, a second rotatable member mounted with the housing, the second rotatable member being proximate to, but spatially separated from the first rotatable member mounted within the melting housing, a heater located within the first rotatable member to heat the first rotatable member to a temperature at which the solid ink melts; and a motor coupled to the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member to rotate the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member within the housing to shear the solid ink as the solid ink melts against the heated first rotatable member.
US08052262B2 Liquid container and image forming apparatus employing the liquid container
A liquid container is detachably mountable in an image forming apparatus having a liquid introducing member. The liquid container includes a storage unit, a supply port assembly, and an elastic seal member. The storage unit is disposed in the liquid container to store a liquid usable for image formation. The supply port assembly is mounted in the storage unit and has a supply channel therein. The liquid introducing member of the image forming apparatus is inserted into the supply port assembly. The elastic seal member is disposed in the supply port assembly. When penetrated by the liquid introducing member, the elastic seal member moves together with the liquid introducing member relative to the supply port assembly to open and close the supply channel.
US08052260B2 Ink cartridges and ink supply systems
An ink cartridge has a case which has an ink chamber, a first wall facing an exterior of the case, and a translucent portion at the first wall and having an inner space formed therein continuously with the ink chamber. The ink cartridge has a first movable member positioned in the case, and a second movable member coupled to the case. The first movable member moves relative to an amount of ink stored in the ink chamber, and has a signal blocking portion positioned in the inner space. The second movable member has a second wall that faces the first wall and that has an opening therethrough. The second movable member moves between a first position and a second position. The second wall is closer to the first wall when the second movable member is in the second position than when the second movable member is in the first position.
US08052258B2 Fluid container, remanufacturing method of fluid container, and sealing method of fluid container
A method for sealing a bore formed in a cover film is disclosed. An ink inlet hole formed in an ink cartridge is covered at a hole covering area of the cover film. The method includes formation of a recess outside the hole covering area by removing a portion of the cover film, mounting a seal film on the cover film in such a manner that the seal film covers the bore, and sealing the bore with the seal film by heating the seal film with the seal film mounted on the cover film and thereby melting a side of the seal film opposed to the cover film.
US08052251B2 Ink jet recording head
An ink jet recording head includes an element substrate; a plurality of ejection outlets, provided on the element substrate, for ejecting ink in a direction perpendicular to the element substrate; and a nozzle formation member having a plurality of ink flow paths which are in fluid communication with the ejection outlets, respectively. The ink flow paths are arranged at a density higher than 1200 dpi in an arranging direction of the ejection outlets and widths of flow passage walls forming the ink flow paths are smaller than heights of the ink flow paths and are smaller than widths of the ink flow paths.
US08052247B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of heads each of which discharges liquid droplets, a base member to hold the heads arranged thereon, and a liquid supply member provided on each head to extend in a direction in which the heads are arranged, and to form a common channel for distributing and supplying liquid to the heads. The liquid supply member includes a first supply opening to receive ink in the liquid supply member, a second supply opening to supply ink to the head, and an annular seal member and provided between the liquid supply member and the head to connect the first and second supply openings by sealing a connection portion between the liquid supply member and the head.
US08052244B2 Moveable sensor array and method of detecting location of calibration fault
A printing device comprises a print head, imaging member, and a moveable sensor array. The print head is configured to deliver marking material to the imaging member as it moves in a process direction. The linear sensor array comprises a plurality of photo sensors configured to scan the imaging member. The photo detectors of the linear sensor array define a sensor axis that is substantially perpendicular to the process direction. The linear sensor array is configured to move along the sensor axis between a first position where the sensor array scans one portion of the imaging member and a second position where the sensor array scans another portion of the imaging member. If a fault is detected during calibration of the sensor array, the moveable sensor array may be used to determine whether the source of the fault rests with the imaging member or the sensor array.
US08052241B2 Recording apparatus, recording data generating apparatus, program, and data structure
A recording apparatus includes a feeding device for feeding a recording medium, recording heads arranged along a feeding direction and extending in a direction orthogonal to the feeding direction, and a control unit for controlling the recording heads, and including storage for storing printing cycle data for printing cycles. For each printing cycle the printing cycle data includes head drive data and head identifying data identifying each head in a corresponding positional relationship with the recording medium in the feeding direction. As the recording medium advances in the feeding direction, the number of heads identified by the head identifying data in a printing cycle changes over time. Also, the apparatus includes a drive unit for reading the printing cycle data associated with a corresponding printing cycle and drives each head identified by the head identifying data based on the head drive data corresponding to the printing cycle data.
US08052239B2 Driving apparatus of inkjet head
An inkjet head driving apparatus, wherein serial data indicating emission or non emission of nozzles respectively for a plurality of heads, is latched and memorized, and the nozzles are driven respectively based on the data memorized, the inkjet head driving apparatus having: an emission timing signal outputting device disposed in common for a plurality of heads so as to output a plurality of emission timing signals in one emission cycle; a setting device disposed respectively for the plurality of the heads so as to select the sequential emission timing signals at which emission starts synchronously, among the emission timing signals outputted from the emission timing signal outputting device in one emission cycle.
US08052236B2 Refrigerator
Provided is a refrigerator. The refrigerator includes a main body defining a storage compartment, a refrigerator door for opening or closing the storage compartment, and a basket height-adjustably provided on the refrigerator door.
US08052230B2 “Handy kitchen”, pneumatically powered, movable cabinets
A lifting system for lifting a floor mounted cabinet from a stored position located on a floor to a raised position where a centerline of the cabinet would be between 38-40 inches above the floor and approximately eye level to a person seated in a wheelchair. A pneumatic power source and a low voltage electric power system coupled with inner and outer frames enables movement of the cabinet between the stored and raised positions.
US08052229B2 Interlocking mechanism for sliding rails
An interlocking mechanism is provided for sliding rails mounted to a cabinet. Each sliding rail comprises an outer rail and an inner rail slidably attached to the outer rail. The interlocking mechanism includes a plurality of interlocking members each of which includes a driving portion and a retaining opening. The interlocking members are respectively attached to the sliding rails. A rod is resiliently and slidably attached to the cabinet. The rod includes a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of corresponding resilient members slantingly attached adjacent to one of the protrusions, corresponding to each interlocking member. The retaining opening comprises a guiding part and a retaining part. If one of the interlocking members moves, the resilient members corresponding to the other interlocking members can move to the corresponding retaining opening retaining parts to lock these interlocking members to prevent the corresponding sliding rails from sliding.
US08052221B2 Tractor
A tractor for hauling concrete and similar materials at a construction site. The tractor includes an engine powering two pumps connected in series. The two pumps providing hydraulic pressure to: independently power each of a plurality of wheels; to rotate at least one of the wheels to provide steering to the tractor; to raise and lower a bucket; and to release and close a latch for a gate connected to the bucket.
US08052219B2 Seat belt retractor and seat belt device using the same
A seat belt retractor for retracting a seat belt includes a spool for retracting the seat belt, a locking mechanism for locking rotation of said spool, and an end-lock preventing mechanism for preventing an end-lock of the seat belt. The end-lock preventing mechanism includes a first speed-reduction portion for largely reducing a seat belt retracting speed of the spool when the spool retracts a substantially full length of the seat belt, and a second speed-reduction portion for reducing the seat belt retracting speed less than that of the first speed-reduction portion so as to provide a delay for the locking mechanism to be brought to a non-lock position at least when retraction of the seat belt is finished.
US08052217B2 Adjustable ergonomic chair
An ergonomic task chair having a front and a rear, including a laterally extending seat having a front and a rear, a back brace disposed above the rear of the seat, and a knee support disposed in the front of the chair, wherein the back brace and the knee support have a first position where there is a first minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support and a second position where there is a second minimum distance between the back brace and the knee support, the second minimum distance being less than the first minimum distance, wherein movement from the first minimum distance to the second minimum distance is triggered by a downward movement of the seat.
US08052212B2 Seat foam with sensor mat
In an assembly of a seat foam and a sensor mat, the seat foam has at least one incision and the sensor mat has at least one anchor tab adapted to be inserted into the at least one incision, thereby securely holding the sensor mat on a surface of the seat foam, where the seat foam includes at least one retaining element at the incision for retaining the anchor tab in the incision.
US08052210B2 Energy-dissipation system
A child restraint includes a juvenile vehicle seat and an energy-absorption apparatus coupled to the juvenile vehicle seat. The energy-absorption apparatus is configured to absorb external energy associated with an external impact force applied to the energy-absorption apparatus.
US08052208B2 Apparatus for locking table of seat back
An apparatus for locking a table of a seat back to selectively secure the table in multiple stages, may include a base, a shaft coupled to the base and the table, an actuating arm fastened to the shaft and rotatable with the shaft, the actuating arm having actuating gear teeth, a locking arm rotatably provided on the base, wherein the locking arm includes locking gear teeth and the locking gear teeth is selectively engaged with the actuating gear teeth by the actuating arm such that when the actuating arm is rotated in a forward direction, the actuating gear teeth is engaged with the locking gear teeth or pass over the locking gear teeth according to rotational degree of the actuating arm, and a locking arm holding unit co-axially coupled with the actuating arm to the base and selectively activated by the actuating arm.
US08052204B2 Vehicle center frame member joints
A vehicle frame assembly, system and method includes a vehicle frame assembly having a variable length longitudinal frame component. The longitudinal frame component is formed at a first length when used on a first vehicle type and formed at a second length when used on a second vehicle type.
US08052202B2 Vehicle frame for work vehicle and method for manufacturing same
The vehicle frame for a work vehicle includes a cabin frame that is assembled into a substantially box form. A base frame is welded to the cabin frame. The cabin frame includes left and right side frames, each of which is formed into a loop. The cabin member includes a plurality of cross members for connecting the left and right side frames. Each of the side frames is formed with a single one-piece pipe material having a first end and a second end with the first end connected to the second end such that a tangential direction extending along a region of the first end coincides with a tangential direction extending along a region of the second end. The pipe material has an irregular shape having a recess formed along the entire length between the first end and the second end of the pipe material.
US08052200B2 Vehicle cab floor protection system
The present disclosure is directed to a protection system for a vehicle cab. The protection system includes a first structure and a second structure. The first structure is disposed between a floor of the vehicle cab and a vehicle tire. The second structure of the protection system is disposed between the first structure and the cab floor. Further, the second structure includes a non-metallic laminate and an air gap disposed between the first structure and the second structure.
US08052199B2 Device for absorbing side forces
A device for absorbing side forces during a side impact of a motor vehicle has a reinforcing structure (12) with a transversely extending reinforcing beam (14). An end (15) of the reinforcing beam (14) is mounted in a bracket (20) that is fixed to the vehicle. A profile part (30) is at the end (15) of the reinforcing beam (14) and supports the reinforcing beam (14). The profile part (30) is connected firmly to the bracket (20) that is fixed to the vehicle thereby providing improved side impact protection and enhanced safety for vehicle occupants.
US08052198B2 Pedestrian safe automotive hood having reinforcing foam
The present invention provides a thin vehicle closure panel design that substantially reduces a thickness (panel gauge plus the perpendicular distance or depth between the panels) of a vehicle hood (5) and the impact effect on the head of a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle. In one embodiment, the vehicle hood (5) includes a hood shell (15) including an outer panel (25) and an inner panel (20); a unitary foam core (100) positioned between and bonded to the outer (25) and/or the inner panel (20) of the hood shell (15); and at least one recess (10) that corresponds to an underhood component (42). In another aspect of the invention, a vehicle hood (5) is provided in which a latch attachment member (60) and/or hinge members (70) are attached to inner surface (50) of the inner panel (20) of the hood shell (15).
US08052197B2 Cabriolet vehicle
A cabriolet vehicle has a body structure and a roof structure that can be attached to the body structure (14). The roof structure has a top with a top material. The top material has a main section, which forms the actual roof of the roof structure in the closed state of the top and lateral rear elongation sections. The elongation sections can be threaded into openings (15) of the body structure (14) and attached to tensioning brackets (19) of the body structure.
US08052196B1 Cover support assembly, a cover assembly, and a method for making a cover assembly
A cover assembly 10 having a cover support portion 30 having various members 34, 36, and 38 each having respective bodies 70 which respectively have a plurality of cells 80 which make the members 34, 36, 38 lightweight and structurally sound, and the members 34, 36, 38 cooperatively deploying a cover 32 over the bed 14 of a selectively movable assembly 12.
US08052195B2 Device for energy absorption upon impact for an automotive seat
Device for energy absorption in particular for an automotive vehicle seat upon impact, said device comprising a first element substantially in the form of a plate with a hole and a second element inserted in the hole, said first element comprising a series of cutouts that are successive along a deformation direction and define a series of yokes between each other extending along a direction of elongation transversal to the direction of deformation, said yokes having each a length along the direction of elongation, said length increases strictly from one yoke to the next according to the distance of the yokes in relation to the second element and the yokes having an overall concavity turned towards the second element.
US08052191B2 Hinged vapor wall
A hinged vapor wall for use in mobile living quarters having a main living area and a secondary area such as a garage. The vapor wall has a first and second section that overlap to form a barrier between the garage and the main living area. When the sections of the vapor wall are in their closed position, the main living area and the garage area are divided into separate airtight compartments. Typically, small vehicles such as motorcycles and ATVs are placed in the garage, and the fumes from their fuel may spread into the main living space in the absence of a barrier. A permanent barrier sacrifices space within the main living area. The hinged vapor wall of this invention is movable to an open position when small vehicles are not being stored in the garage, enabling the garage to be used as living space as well.
US08052187B2 Cover installation tool
An installation tool may include an extension member, a body portion disposed on the extension member, and a plurality of fingers flexibly protruding from the body portion. The plurality of fingers are adapted to releasably engage a cover assembly. The plurality of fingers and the body portion cooperate to retain the cover assembly in a first direction and allow disengagement of the cover assembly in a second direction.
US08052186B2 High rise hose pack system
A high rise hose pack system for efficiently transporting a length of fire hose. The high rise hose pack system generally includes a main member having an elongated structure, a plurality of first support members attached to a first side of the main member, a plurality of second support members attached to a second side of the main member opposite of the first support members, a first strap attached to the first side of the main member and a second strap attached to the second side of the main member, wherein the first strap and the second strap are connectable to one another to secure a fire hose folded upon the main member. The first support members and the second support members are preferably comprised of a rigid structure to adequately support the sides of the folded fire hose. A roller is rotatably attached to at least one of the second straps to allow the folded fire hose to bend freely without the second strap frictionally engaging the upper surface of the folded fire hose.
US08052180B1 Tamper evident cargo seal
A tamper-evident cargo seal is disclosed, comprising a pin that is passed through a hasp on a shipping container, a body member, a pair of parallel guide members, at least one security label blank, and a cover. One end of the pin is keyed. The body member has a slot through a side surface extending into the interior, and is keyed to receive the pin. Abutting the top surface of the body member are two parallel guide members, bounding an area comprising the top surface of the body member. One of the guide members also has a slot to allow the pin to engage the slot in the body member. One or two removable security label blanks are inserted between the guides after the pin is inserted into the slot, and a security label is affixed over the blanks. A cover engages the body and guide members to protect the label.
US08052174B2 Pipe joint design
A connection joint brazed to a heat exchanger may employ a first block and a second block. The first block may have two fluid passages that align with two fluid passages of the second block. A first male insert may reside within a first fluid passage of each of the first block and the second block and a second male insert may reside within a second fluid passage of each block. Each of the male inserts may employ a first seal and a second seal with a raised boss region midway between the seals. The raised boss portion lies at the mated flats of the juncture of the first and second blocks, which are chamfered to permit part of the boss to locate in each of the chamfers. The seals may be o-rings, or they may be molded onto an insert base using an over molding or double shot manufacturing process.
US08052169B2 Gas generator for inflating a gas bag of a vehicle occupant restraint system and method of inflating a gas bag
A gas generator for inflating a gas bag of a vehicle occupant restraint system is provided. The gas generator includes an igniting means for producing gas and/or heat upon activation by a control signal of the vehicle. The gas generator also includes a first chamber comprising a propellant ignitable by gas and/or heat produced by the igniting means, and a second chamber comprising pressurized inflation gas. An outlet opening through which the inflation gas can flow out of the second chamber and into the gas bag is provided. The gas generator also includes a sealing means sealing the outlet opening. The gas generator is configured in such a way that after activation of the igniting means gas and/or heat produced by the igniting means ignites the propellant and a pressure wave is created under the direct or indirect impact of gas produced by the igniting means.
US08052165B2 End piece for the front or rear end of a ski or snowboard and a ski fitted therewith or a snowboard fitted therewith
The invention relates to an end piece (2, 2′) for the front or rear end of a ski (1) or snowboard, which end piece (2, 2′) has at least a first and a second portion (6, 7). A distance (10, 10′) between mutually adjacent zones (8, 9) of the first and second portion (6, 7) or a width or length measurement of at least one of the zones (8, 9) can be varied. Alternatively, the first and second portion (6, 7) are connected to one another in the mutually adjacent zones (8, 9) by means of an articulated joint and/or an elastically stretchable and rebounding bridging element and/or an elastically deformable middle portion (12) and the zones of the first and second portion (6, 7) remote from the mutually adjacent zones (8, 9) can be respectively connected to oppositely lying side edges of a ski (1) or snowboard by articulated joints and/or with an interconnected elastic deformation zone. This positively influences the performance of a ski (1) or snowboard with a variable geometry or size.
US08052163B2 Connector bracket for a semitrailer of a semitrailer truck
The invention relates, inter alia, to a connector bracket for a semitrailer of a semitrailer truck. Said connector bracket comprises a support element which can be swiveled about a bearing and a connector arranged inside the support element, the support element having a casing frame with a section that is complementary to an insertion opening of a fifth wheel. The aim of the invention is to provide a connector bracket or a plug-in coupling which is highly reliable even under adverse external conditions. This aim is achieved, inter alia, by the connector bracket according to the invention, wherein the casing frame can be displaced in relation to the connector by contact with the insertion opening, thereby displacing the connector from a closed standby position to an open coupling position.
US08052162B2 Vehicle step apparatus and extending and retracting device therefor
A vehicle step includes a step member and first and second extending and retracting devices connected to the step member for moving it between extended and retracted positions. Each of the extending and retracting devices includes a mounting bracket adapted to be fixed to a vehicle body, a step bracket connected to the step member, first and second arms each defining a lower end rotatably connected to the step bracket and an upper end, and a third arm defining an upper end rotatably connected to the mounting bracket and a lower end rotatably connected to the upper end of the first or second arm. The upper end of the other of the first or second arm is rotatably connected to the mounting bracket. The vehicle step includes also driving devices that drive respectively the extending and retracting devices to move the step member between the extended and retracted positions.
US08052157B2 Binding mechanism for board-type gliding devices
The invention relates to a binding mechanism (1) for board-type gliding devices, in particular a snowboard binding, provided with a retaining plate (12) for a base plate (11) for securing it to a gliding board body. A setting and fixing device (23) is provided, which can be switched into at least three selectively assumable operating modes and is designed so that (i) in a first operating mode, an anti-rotation lock and an anti-lift lock for the base plate (11) are activated, (ii) in a second operating mode, the anti-rotation lock is inactive and the anti-lift lock is active, and (iii) in a third operating mode, the anti-rotation lock and the anti-lift lock are inactive. The retaining plate (12) is therefore rigidly connected to the top face (13) of a gliding board body and is immobile in the direction perpendicular to it both when the anti-rotation lock (41) is deactivated in order to change the position of angular rotation (20) and when the anti-lift lock (42) is deactivated in order to remove or fit the base plate (11).
US08052156B2 Bit holder
A bit holder includes a shank, and a bit sleeve. The shank has a first end portion of a non-circular geometric equiangular cross-section for combining a hand tool, and a second end portion formed with a combining hole having female threads in its wall. The bit sleeve has a through hole for a bit to extend therein, male threads and a circular circumference. The bit sleeve is combined with the shank by engagement of the male threads with the female threads, and the bit sleeve may be rotated to fix with or loosen from the shank by an auxiliary tool for changing the bit. In assembling, the bit is inserted through the through hole of the bit sleeve, and then the male threads of the bit sleeve are engaged with the female threads of the shank by an auxiliary tool fitted with the circular circumference and rotated to keep the bit combined with the shank, with the bit sleeve pressing the bit so as to minimize the tolerance of the gap between them, thus enabling the bit to drive a screw smoothly into an object.
US08052155B2 High temperature seal and methods of use
A seal (1) includes a first component (7) and second component (9), the first component including a first material having a high thermal and oxidation and wear resistance, and the second component (9) including a second material that is different from the first material and has a high spring load maintenance. The seal (1) is applied to a combustion chamber for a gas turbine, where the first component (7) extends between the casing wall of the combustion chamber and adjacent liner segments (4). The spring load of the second component (9) provides a seal also in the case of vibrations in a combustion chamber. The lifetime of the seal (1) is increased due to the individual materials, which are optimally chosen for the functions of high thermal and wear resistance and spring load maintenance respectively. The seal is further applied to the sealing between adjacent stationary blade platforms in gas turbines.
US08052151B2 Sealing arrangement
In a sealing arrangement sealing at least one axial end section of a hollow shaft that is arranged in a cavity of a component, with the hollow shaft being adapted to route a fluid, a gasket is adapted to be located between the component and the shaft. The gasket is made with a sealing lip to adjoin the outer peripheral surface of the end section. The gasket also includes an axially projecting portion that projects axially beyond the end of the shaft. The axially projecting portion of the gasket surrounds a device for filtering the fluid and/or a device for determining the flow cross-section of the fluid.
US08052150B2 Texture game
The Texture Game 1 is provided for determining the texture of a pair of game pieces 5 that are enclosed in a cylindrical enclosure 2 with open ends, a fabric 3 covers the enclosure 2 and overlaps the open ends, and elastic means 4 sewn into the ends of the fabric substantially closing the open ends but allows a players hand to be inserted into the enclosure 2 for determining the texture of the pairs of game pieces 5 and for withdrawing the matching game pieces from within the enclosure 2.
US08052146B2 Sheet transport apparatus
Provided is a sheet inverting apparatus wherein members, such as a roller, are not brought into contact with the printed surface of a sheet at all, and the occurrence of dirt can be prevented by eliminating friction of ink on the surface of the sheet. A first transport apparatus and a second transport apparatus each have a plurality of transport belts which move on transport tracks along sheet transport directions and a suction box which sucks the sheet on the transport belts through suction holes formed on the transport belts. A turn guide arranged between the first transport apparatus and the second transport apparatus has a plurality of guide ribs disposed between the transport belts. Each of the guide ribs coming into slidable contact with the sheet forms a curved inverting transfer surface from an inversion starting point side to an inversion end point side.
US08052144B2 Method, apparatus, and system for forming image
An image forming apparatus connectable to a first feed tray and a second feed tray includes an image forming unit, a feed path, and a detecting unit provided on the feed path to sense recording medium jam. An identifying unit identifies a feed path and a feed tray where recording medium jam has occurred as a jammed path and a jamming feed tray. A first determining unit determines whether the image forming apparatus is connected to the second feed tray. A second determining unit determines whether the second feed tray can feed a recording medium to the image forming unit. A feeding unit feeds a recording medium from the second feed tray to the image forming unit.
US08052142B2 Paper transport apparatus with inverting turn guide having range of curvature radius
A turn guide is disposed between a first transport surface and a second transport surface on which a sheet is transported while being sucked. The turn guide has a plurality of guide ribs. The plurality of guide ribs have curved inverting transfer surfaces from an inversion start point corresponding to a first transport surface to an inversion end point corresponding to a second transport surface.
US08052131B2 Bookmaking apparatus
A bookmaking apparatus includes a first path to convey a sheet bundle, a second path to convey a cover sheet, a joining stage disposed at an intersection of the first path and the second path, a gripping conveyance device arranged for gripping and a conveyance device arranged at a downstream side of the joining stage for conveying out the cover sheet and sheet bundle. The gripping conveyance device includes clamping members to grip the sheet bundle and clamping control device for opening and closing the clamping members. The clamping control device operates the clamping members to grip a lower edge of the sheet bundle when joining the sheet bundle to the cover sheet, and the clamping members to retract to an upstream side of the first path and to grip the sheet bundle again when conveying the joined sheet bundle to the conveyance device.
US08052130B2 Power-actuated vise apparatus
A power-actuated vise apparatus includes a first jaw which is disposed on a base, and a second jaw which is supported by a carrier to be movable in a longitudinal direction by an angular force in an initial course. The carrier is further pressed by a linear force in a subsequent course to bring the second jaw into tightened engagement with a workpiece against the first jaw. A servo control mechanism is disposed to drive a torque transmitting member so as to transmit a torque force. A force coupler unit is configured to couple the torque transmitting member to the carrier and to take up the torque force from the torque transmitting member to result in generation of the angular force and the linear force.
US08052126B2 Liquid distribution in co-current contacting apparatuses
Fluid distribution systems, and particularly those for distributing liquids into apparatuses containing modules used to carry out vapor-liquid contacting, are described. Representative liquid distribution systems comprise an extended trough having a plurality of outlet spouts that are aligned for distribution into a plurality of downcomers. The downcomers may be in non-parallel (e.g., orthogonal) alignment with respect to the trough and/or the number of troughs may be less than the number of downcomers to which fluid is distributed.
US08052123B2 Unified remote control operation of yacht winches
A power operated winch mechanism for handling the running rigging lines of a sailing yacht. The winch includes a winding drum, which winds and stores the line during line retrieving operations and controllably releases the line when desired. A pair of the new winches can be controllably operated using a portable or fixed control device, with one winch controlled to retrieve one line while another winch controllably releases line in a coordinated procedure. Among other things, such coordinated operations can be useful in carrying out tacking and gybing maneuvers without crew involvement in line handling operations. Novel level wind features enable the lines to be appropriately tensioned during retrieval, and positively drawn from the drum when the line is not under load. Significant improvement in the safety and convenience of the crew is enabled.
US08052119B2 Valve device
A valve device includes: a valve housing defining a cylindrical space connected to a high-pressure source, and having a first communication hole open at a valve seat located at a bottom portion of the valve housing and providing fluid communication between the cylindrical space and a low-pressure source; a seal member arranged in the cylindrical space and providing or shutting off fluid communication between the high-pressure and low-pressure sources so that the seal member moves away from or contacts the valve seat; and a stem having an accommodating recess at one end of the stem and moved axially. The seal member is fitted and held in the accommodating recess. The seal member has a second communication hole that provides fluid communication between a bottom face of the accommodating recess and the low-pressure source when the seal member is in contact with the valve seat.
US08052117B2 Fluid control valve
A fluid control valve comprises a valve element, a casing, a fluid flow passage formed in the casing, and an actuator drivingly moving the valve element to the casing in the axial direction. The fluid flow passage introduces a fluid from the inlet for the fluid and supplies the fluid into the clearance between the inner wall surface of a guide part and the outer peripheral surface of the valve element to lift the valve element relative to the inner wall surface of the guide part in the state of non-contact with each other. The actuator moves the valve element in the axial direction in the state of non-contact and changes the clearance between the outlet of the casing and the tip of the valve element to control the output flow amount or output pressure of the fluid.
US08052113B2 Seat slide apparatus for vehicle
A seat slide apparatus for a vehicle includes a cushioning member provided at one of an operational lever and a lock lever. The cushioning member is configured to contact the other of the operational lever and the lock lever for restricting a contact of an end portion of the operational lever with the lock lever at an initial stage of the rotational operation of the operational lever and is configured to allow a contact of the end portion of the operational lever with the lock lever when canceling the restriction of the movement of an upper rail relative to a lower rail by the lock lever in response to the rotational operation of the operational lever.
US08052110B2 Telescopically adjustable support brace
A telescopically adjustable support brace includes a first member and a second member operably moveable with respect to the first member in a telescopic manner. The first and second members are adapted to be positioned across two objects for maintaining a fixed distance therebetween. A quick-clamping device includes a collar moveably engaged in the first member and a quick-release device for selectively clutching the collar to the second member. When the collar is clutched to the second member, the second member is adapted to be moved with respect to the first member by the collar. Further, an adjusting device is operable to move the collar with respect to the first member, and the collar is thereafter adapted to move the second member with respect to the first member.
US08052108B2 Probe holder
A probe holder includes a base and a holding part foldably provided to the base. The probe holder allows easy movement and maintenance of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus including the probe holder and to prevent the probe holder from being damaged by a wall or other objects and vice versa during movement of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.
US08052105B2 Holder for a loudspeaker box
A holder for a loudspeaker box onto which the loudspeaker box can be slipped. The holder includes a control handle and a clamping device actuatable without tools via the control handle.
US08052104B2 Mounting head
A mounting head includes a first pivot assembly and a second pivot assembly. The first pivot assembly may be configured to pivot a platform of the mounting head about a first axis, and the second pivot assembly may be configured to pivot the platform about a second axis. A pivot assembly may comprise a threaded shaft having an attachment element configured to move linearly along the axial length of the threaded shaft as the threaded shaft is rotated. The linear movement of the attachment element may drive pivotal movement of the platform. The mounting head may further include position indicators, configured for indicating, in linear coordinates, the position of the platform. Methods of using and adjusting a mounting head are disclosed.
US08052101B2 Rotating table for display device
The invention provides a rotating table for a display device which can rotate around the horizontal shaft by a manual operation in addition to a small motor drive. A rotating table for a display device includes a rotating member arranged so as to be rotatable around a horizontal shaft, and in which the display device is arranged, a balancing device balancing with a gravity moment around the horizontal shaft in the display device, and a first motor-driven rotating mechanism rotating the rotating member around the horizontal shaft, and the first motor-driven rotating mechanism includes gear trains converting a rotation of an electric motor into a rotation of the rotating member, and a rotation allowing device allowing a rotation of the gear trains only in a case of a rotation having a torque not less than a predetermined torque with respect to the rotation from the rotating member side.
US08052097B2 Flying control device for a rotorcraft
The invention relates to a rotorcraft cockpit having a left seat and a right seat placed side-by-side, a console extending between the seats, two side sticks, one situated to the right of the right seat and the other situated to the left of the left seat, enabling the pilot to control roll and pitch; a flight control system comprising sensors associated with the side sticks and a computer connected to the sensors serves to convert the orders applied by the pilot to the side sticks into signals for controlling actuators in order to vary roll and pitch; a piloting relationship integrated in the computer stabilizes the response of the rotorcraft in roll and in pitch when a side stick is actuated, and maintains the attitudes in roll and pitch at reference values when neither side stick is actuated.
US08052094B2 Fast hybrid helicopter with long range with longitudinal trim control
A hybrid helicopter includes an airframe provided with a fuselage and a lift-producing surface together with stabilizer surfaces and a drive system including: a mechanical interconnection system between a rotor of radius (R) with collective pitch and cyclic pitch control of the blades of the rotor and at least one propeller with collective pitch control of the blades of the propeller; and at least one turbine engine driving the mechanical interconnection system. The hybrid helicopter includes first members for controlling the angle at which the at least one pitch control surface is set as a function of the bending moment exerted on the rotor mast relative to the pitch axis of the hybrid helicopter, and second members for controlling the cyclic pitch of the blades of the rotor in order to control the longitudinal trim of the hybrid helicopter as a function of flight conditions.
US08052090B1 Hoist support removably mountable externally onto a helicopter
A support system attaches a hoist to the External Stores Support System of an aircraft by using a boom from which a first leg depends and is attached to a forward fitting. A second leg is attached to the boom via a collar and attaches to an aft fitting while a torque arm is pivotally attached to the collar via a support arm, the torque arm also attaches to a tie-down fitting. The legs are attached to their respective fittings using pins and the torque arm is bolted to the tie-down ring fitting. A hoist slip having a horn is attached to an end of the boom.
US08052089B2 Anti-icing apparatus for honeycomb structures
An apparatus comprises a structure having a leading edge, a skin covering the structure, a tip, and a channel. The tip is located at the leading edge, wherein the tip has a number of openings. The channel extends through the structure to the tip, wherein the channel is in communication with the number of openings in the tip.
US08052085B2 Thrust reverser for a turbofan gas turbine engine
The thrust reverser includes, in one aspect, an interior flow deflector which defines a portion of a substantially continuous and uninterrupted nozzle interior surface with the interior of a jet pipe when the door is in a stowed position, thereby reducing aerodynamic losses and improving efficiency. In another aspect, improved sealing arrangement between the jet pipe and the door provides increased performance when the doors are stowed.
US08052082B1 Optimized aerodynamic, propulsion, structural and operations features for lighter-than-air vehicles
An optimized lighter-than-air vehicle or airship incorporating a frame 104, internal propulsion 124, perforated covering 102 and lifting-gas cells 110 is disclosed. Optimization features include variations on a Stratford Ramp, means to control the boundary layer 210, absence of unnecessary protuberances and means to reduce the bow wave. A transportable version utilizing a flexible frame 310 and keels 314 is also disclosed along with a means for rapid descent and landing. The operating concept reduces velocity requirements which, in turn, reduce weight and size requirements.
US08052081B2 Dual rotor helicopter with tilted rotational axes
A rotary wing aircraft apparatus includes a body and a rotor pair connected to the body by an arm. The rotor pair has an upper rotor driven by an upper motor and rotating about an upper rotor axis and a lower rotor driven by a lower motor and rotating about a lower rotor axis. The upper and lower rotor axes are tilted with respect to each other. Tilting the axes away from the arm increases the distance from the rotor blades to the arm, and decreases the risk of the blades of the rotor contacting the arm. In an aircraft with a plurality of arms extending from the body, and a rotor assembly connected to each arm, the arms can be pivoted from a flying position, where the arms extend laterally outward to a folded position where the arms are positioned substantially parallel and adjacent to each other.
US08052080B2 Rope breaking device
A rope braking device includes a housing having a chamber and an orifice communicative with each other, an eyelet engaged in the orifice of the housing and having a bore for engaging with a rope, a pulley having a hub mounted on a shaft, a follower gear mounted on the shaft and coupled to the hub, an internal gear rotatably mounted on the shaft, a number of pinions engaged with the follower gear and the inner teeth of the internal gear for resisting the rotational movement of the pulley and the rope relative to the housing, and for allowing the rope braking device to be easily carried with the user and to be easily operated by the user.
US08052076B2 Particle-size reduction apparatus, and use thereof
A sterilizable particle-size reduction apparatus, component parts thereof and a method of sterilizing and validating sterility thereof are provided. Also provided is use thereof to prepare sterile suspensions of drugs.
US08052074B2 Apparatus and process for depositing coatings
A spray coating process and apparatus suitable for depositing coatings on surfaces of components, and particularly surfaces that are difficult to access with conventional cold spraying equipment. The process and apparatus employ a spray gun having a tubular body with a longitudinal axis and an exit at one end thereof. The body has a first portion defining a converging passage, a second portion defining a diverging passage that defines the exit of the body, and a throat portion therebetween that defines a throat between and connecting the converging and diverging passages. The gun is further equipped with at least one gas inlet for introducing a gas upstream of the converging passage, and at least one feedstock inlet for introducing a feedstock at or immediately upstream of the throat.
US08052073B2 Fuel injection valve
A fuel injection valve includes a valve main body of a hollow tubular shape, a needle valve provided to the valve main body in a slidable manner, a valve seat opposing the needle valve to form a seat portion and having an injection hole formed downstream of the seat portion, and a guide portion provided upstream of the seat portion to guide the needle valve. An annular passage communicating in a circumferential direction is defined between the inner peripheral surface of the valve main body and the outer peripheral surface of the guide portion and a fuel passage through which to introduce a fuel from the annular passage to the seat portion is defined. An almost cylindrical filter to trap foreign matter heading toward the fuel passage is provided to the annular passage.
US08052071B2 Fluid reservoir for a paint spray gun
The invention relates to a fluid reservoir for a paint spray gun, comprising a cup-shaped receptacle (1), a lid (2) that can be placed thereon (1) and a connecting part (3) which can be formed on the receptacle (1) or on the cover (2) and which is used to secure the fluid reservoir to the paint spray gun. According to the invention, a transition area (12) between the connecting part (3) and the receptacle (1) or the cover is embodied in a flexible manner in order to adjust the inclination of the receptacle (1) or the cover (2) in relation to the central axis (14) of the connecting part (3) in order to improve material guiding, even when the paint spray gun is inclined positions.
US08052070B2 Apparatus for applying markings on a road surface
Apparatus for depositing a flowable substance as marking on road surfaces, and the like, comprising a container for the flowable substance which is conducted through a valve with a series of computer controlled, close adjacently arranged valve elements which can be activated individually with a series of activating members with connecting elements to the individual valve elements. The apparatus comprises a way of varying as an assembly the geometry of the movement of activating members of the valve members. The connecting elements are linked to a longitudinally extending member with an eccentric mechanism to regulate the active length of the connection between the activating member and the valve member for each of a plurality of valve members.
US08052068B1 Guide plate for laterally guiding a rail and system for fastening a rail to a base
The invention relates to a guide plate for laterally guiding a rail S for rail vehicles to be fastened to a base 2 by means of a spring element 13 having a front face, against which the rail S is supported in the mounting position, and having an insulator element 19 which can be placed onto the foot F of the rail to be fastened, via which insulator element 19 the spring element 13 in the mounting position acts on the foot F of the rail S. The invention also relates to a system for fastening a rail, which comprises such a guide plate 3. In order to simplify mounting and to ensure reliable, correct positioning of the insulator element even under unfavourable mounting conditions, the invention makes provision for the insulator element 19 to be mounted on the guide plate 3 so that it can pivot.
US08052067B2 Self-cleaning assembly employing a gap filler for a guidance or runway rail on the ground
A self-cleaning assembly employing a gap filler for a rail on the ground which guides or in which there runs rollers or wheels with lugs housed in a groove so as to lie flush with or protrude only slightly from the ground and which has a gap on the side of the rail corresponding to the passage of the lug. A filling substance is placed in the gap outside of the dynamic footprint of the lug and at least partially lines the gap, at least partially filling it. The filling material has properties of compressibility and is positioned in such a way that under all normal conditions of use or normal environmental conditions, the gap remains filled outside of the dynamic footprint of the lug.
US08052066B2 Heating control system for vehicle
A hybrid vehicle can be driven using both of respective driving forces from an engine and a motor. A heating mechanism of an air conditioning apparatus uses thermal energy from cooling water of the engine to heat the interior of a passenger compartment. An ECU takes into consideration engine efficiency from the standpoint of fuel economy enhancement to primarily determine the driving force share ratio between the engine and the motor. Further, the ECU calculates a preset temperature corresponding to a cooling water temperature necessary for desired heating as well as a control target temperature in which the preset temperature is reflected, and corrects the primarily determined driving force share ratio to increase the share of the driving force of the engine by an amount according to a deviation between the cooling water temperature measured by a water temperature sensor and the control target temperature. Heating performance can thus be ensured promptly without deterioration of fuel economy.
US08052064B2 Expansion valve with refrigerant flow dividing structure and refrigeration unit utilizing the same
An expansion valve of the present invention has a structure which integrates a refrigerant flow divider. The expansion valve includes a refrigerant flow dividing chamber 6 on the downstream side of a first throttle 10. Flow dividing tubes 12 are connected to the refrigerant flow dividing chamber 6. In the expansion valve, refrigerant which has passed through the first throttle 10 is sprayed into the refrigerant flow dividing chamber 6, so that the flow dividing characteristic of the refrigerant is improved. Also, due to an enlargement of the passage in the refrigerant flow dividing chamber 6, the ejection energy of a flow of the refrigerant ejected from the first throttle 10 is dispersed, whereby a discontinuous refrigerant flow noise is reduced.
US08052062B2 Constant air volume / variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system
A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger.
US08052058B2 Scanner for product authentication
A method of identifying or authenticating a product by providing an analog identification indicia including a randomized pattern of identification features on a first part of the product wherein one or more attributes of the randomized pattern of identification features correspond to an item identifier. A digital identification record is provided on a second part of the product including an encoded digital version of the item identifier. The product is viewed from two angles and confirmation of the information from both angles assures product authenticity.
US08052057B2 Method of programming the system configuration parameters of a digital image capture and processing system during the implementation of its communication interface with a host system without reading programming-type bar code symbols
A method of illuminating objects on a countertop surface using an automatically-triggered digital image capture and processing system having a single array of LEDs disposed near and behind the upper edge portion of its imaging window, which is provided with an illumination-focusing lens structure integrated therein. During object detection, illumination and imaging operations on the countertop surface, typically at a retail point of sale (POS) station, visible illumination generated by the LEDs is focused and projected by the illumination-focusing lens structure so that the system maintains its illumination rays substantially within the field of view (FOV) of said system, and above which the field of view (FOV) of human operator and spectators are positioned, so that the field of illumination extends substantially across the working distance of the FOV of the system, and in a way to illuminate objects located anywhere within the working distance of said system, while minimizing annoyance to the system operator, as well as others in the vicinity thereof during system operation.
US08052055B2 Method and system for perturbing multi-radio-frequency-identification-tag-reader networks to increase interrogation efficiency
Methods and systems of the present invention employ perturbation techniques for configuring RFID-tag-reader networks in order to achieve increased overall efficiency of a network of RFID-tag readers. According to described embodiments of the present invention, individual RFID-tag readers within a multi-RFID-tag-reader network may be removed or shut down, or RFID-tag readers may be displaced relative to one another, in order to remove interferences between RFID-tag readers and to increase the interrogation efficiency of the multi-RFID-tag-reader network.
US08052053B2 Apparatus and methods for enforcing purchase agreements
Systems, apparatus, articles of manufacture and methods are provided for establishing (e.g., online) a buyer price for a first plurality of products. In one embodiment, the buyer price is lower than a retail price of the first plurality of products. A second plurality of products that the buyer has actually received during the subsequent transaction is determined. A penalty may be assessed if the first plurality of products does not correspond to the second plurality of products.
US08052052B1 User-activated payment card
Embodiments of a payment card (such as a credit card), a financial-transaction system that uses the payment card, and a method are described. These embodiments may be used to protect financial information stored on the payment card, while providing ease of use to a user of the payment card when conducting a financial transaction. In particular, the payment card may include a transducer that detects a physical phenomenon. If this physical phenomenon is detected, a wireless communication circuit in or on the payment card is enabled, so that the wireless communication circuit can provide the user's financial information in response to an external signal received from an external reading device (such as an a radio-frequency identification signal from a card reader).
US08052050B2 Card activated cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine system operates to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The system is operative to read a financial card bearing account indicia with a card reader. A user is enabled to perform at least one banking operation responsive to account indicia read from the card. Such banking operations may include dispensing cash and accessing financial accounts. While a user operates the system to dispense cash or perform other banking operations, the system may further permit at least one portable wireless device to wirelessly access the system to conduct transactions.
US08052048B1 Automated banking machine that operates responsive to data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data read from data bearing records to cause financial transfers. The machine includes a card reader that operates to read card data from user cards. The card data corresponds to financial accounts. The automated banking machine includes a cash dispenser and the machine carries out transaction functions for consumers including dispensing cash. The automated banking machine uses a trusted platform module to measure and authenticate components in the machine prior to dispensing cash.
US08052047B1 Automated banking machine that operates responsive to data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data read from data bearing records to cause financial transfers. The machine includes a card reader that operates to read card data from user cards. The card data corresponds to financial accounts. The automated banking machine includes a cash dispenser and the machine carries out transaction functions for consumers including dispensing cash. The automated banking machine may also include a button in a chest that is operative to establish secure communication with the cash dispenser.
US08052044B2 Automated banking machine currency cassette with RFID tag
An ATM currency cassette includes an RFID tag. The tag includes information about the cassette, such as the cassette serial number and the currency denomination. An ATM includes a tag reader that can interrogate the tag to receive the information. The history of a particular cassette can be tracked via the cassette serial number. Problem cassettes can be identified.
US08052042B2 Automated banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records
A system controlled responsive to data bearing records includes a card reader that is operative to read card data from user cards including financial account data, and causes operation of an automated banking machine to carry out financial transactions responsive to the account data. The automated banking machine is operative to access at least one network. The automated banking machine is operative to enable a user thereof to make payments for purchases of goods or services to be delivered remote from the machine and to receive from the user a cash payment for the purchases through a cash acceptor. The automated banking machine includes a printer that provides receipts for transactions conducted through the machine.
US08052040B2 Negotiable instrument with fraud protection
A negotiable instrument with fraud and identity theft protection and method of use is provided. The method includes step accepting a negotiable instrument having a pre-printed bar code, reading the bar code on a negotiable instrument using a bar code scanner, and receiving from the writer a code presented to the merchant for deriving personal information associated with the account holder and banking information associated with the account from the bar code. The method also having the step of comparing the personal identification information from the bar code with information provided by the writer. The merchant using the bank processing information derived from the bar code to process the negotiable instrument.
US08052036B2 Tab lead soldering apparatus and tab lead soldering method
A tab lead soldering apparatus soldering a tab lead to a front face and a rear face of a solar cell has a first pressing mechanism pressing the tab lead toward the front face of the solar cell, a second pressing mechanism pressing the tab lead toward the rear face of the solar cell rear face, a heat member and a support member provided to the first pressing mechanism and/or the second pressing mechanism to contact with the tab lead, a heat member shift mechanism shifting the heat member between a contact position to contact an end of the heat member with the tab lead and a separation position to separate the end of the heat member from the tab lead, and a support member shift mechanism shifting the support member between a contact position to contact an end of the support member with the tab lead and a separation position to separate the end of the support member from the tab lead.
US08052035B2 Method and mask assembly for forming solder bodies on a substrate
A method for forming solder bodies on a substrate includes: positioning a first mask plate, which is formed with at least one first through-hole, on the substrate; filling the first through-hole with a first solder paste so as to form a first solder body on the substrate; positioning a second mask plate, which is formed with at least one second through-hole and at least one recess spaced apart from the second through-hole, on the substrate in such a manner that the first solder body is received in the recess; and filling the second through-hole with a second solder paste so as to form a second solder body on the substrate.
US08052034B2 Lateral position detection and control for friction stir systems
Friction stir methods are disclosed for processing at least one workpiece using a rotary tool with rotating member for contacting and processing the workpiece. The methods include oscillating the rotary tool laterally with respect to a selected propagation path for the rotating member with respect to the workpiece to define an oscillation path for the rotating member. The methods further include obtaining force signals or parameters related to the force experienced by the rotary tool at least while the rotating member is disposed at the extremes of the oscillation. The force signals or parameters associated with the extremes can then be analyzed to determine a lateral position of the selected path with respect to a target path and a lateral offset value can be determined based on the lateral position. The lateral distance between the selected path and the target path can be decreased based on the lateral offset value.
US08052024B2 Surgical stapler with timer and feedback display
A surgical apparatus has a clamp and a stapling mechanism. The clamp has a first jaw and a second jaw to clamp on a body tissue at a desired location for a stapling operation. The stapling mechanism is controlled by a trigger handle or a switch assembly. The surgical apparatus has a controller for providing a delay between clamping and actuating of the firing mechanism of the stapling mechanism. The delay provides for a desired amount of time for tissue compression producing a more uniform staple formation. The surgical apparatus also has an indicator. The indicator provides feedback about the status of the stapling mechanism and also displays a time of tissue compression by the clamp.
US08052022B2 Leveraged action stapler
A stapler selectively uses enhanced leverage to break a glue bond of a staple to separate the staple from a rack of staples in the stapler. The staple does not press a working surface during this operating stage. The extra leverage stage occurs through a minority of total handle travel, preferably via a pivoting lever linked to the striker at one end and the opposite end traversing between inner spaced apart ribs underneath the handle. A remaining non-leveraged handle travel stage ejects a staple out from the stapler body against a working surface. A track supports staples from an underside of the top of the staples. The track includes an outward extending bottom support for at least one staple on the track to prevent rotation of a short rack of staples.
US08052020B1 Fisherman's caddy apparatus
The pliable fisherman's caddy apparatus provides hands free carry of fishing equipment. Additionally, hands free carry of two fishing poles is provided. The apparatus is worn by the provided waist belt by a user, much like a fanny pack. Absolutely no impingement on a wearer's torso, arm movements, or leg movements are in any way experienced. Quick movement of the case from back to front, on a wearer, is as easy as spinning the belt. As the fisherman's caddy apparatus is lightweight, and waist worn, a user does not experience any balance issues when negotiating varied terrain.
US08052019B2 Vehicle multi-purpose cargo bed accessory
A multi-purpose vehicle cargo bed accessory includes a central body portion, a first lateral body portion and a mounting structure. The first lateral body portion is rigidly connected along a first lateral edge of the central body portion to form a generally T-shaped transverse cross section with the central body portion along a majority of a length of the first lateral edge. The first lateral body portion has a first longitudinal part extending outwardly from a first side of central body portion and a second longitudinal part extending outwardly from a second side of central body portion. At least one of the central body portion and the first lateral body portion includes the mounting structure configured and arranged to securely fasten the vehicle cargo bed accessory to a vehicle cargo area.
US08052014B2 Fluid container
A dual storage system-type fluid container in which a liquid pouring tube is securely fitted and a liquid discharging passage formed in a dispenser is easily and securely connected to the liquid pouring tube. A joint for the fluid container comprises a flexible bag (12) having a neck part (11) opened such that liquid can be poured through it and also has an outer container (13) for receiving the bag (12) with the neck part (11) supported by a mouth part (13a). The liquid pouring tube (15) having a flange part (15a) can be fitted to the mouth part (13a) of the outer container (13) with a retainer (14) placed between the tube and the mouth part. A flow passage (21a) formed in the dispenser (2) can be directly connected to the fluid passage (15b) of the liquid pouring tube (15).
US08052012B2 Regulated fluid dispensing device and method of dispensing a carbonated beverage
A device and method are provided for dispensing a beverage from a pressurized container. The dispensing device includes an integral source of compressed gas for maintaining the beverage within the container at a desired pressurized state. The dispensing device also includes a regulator for controlling the flow of gas from the compressed gas source to the interior of the container, as well as a pressure relief mechanism that accounts for potential over pressurization of the container. The beverage is selectively dispensed by actuation of a tap handle. Delivery is achieved through the device by a resilient delivery tube, and the delivery tube is either pinched closed or allowed to decompress by the actuation of the tap handle. In another embodiment, a check valve is used to control flow of the beverage in which the tap handle activates a transfer rod to seat and unseat a check element.
US08052009B2 Adhesive bandage and dispenser
A bandage dispensing device dispenses bandages with an upper protective layer of its packaging removed so that a person can dispense a bandage using only one hand. A separator placed near an opening in a wall of the housing of the device separates the upper protective layer from a roll of interconnected bandages so that only a bandage and a lower protective layer emerge from the housing of the device. The separator has at least one arm that protrudes from the side wall of the housing in a perpendicular direction and separates an upper protective layer of the packaging. The upper protective layer that has been separated by the separator gathers inside of the housing. In the roll of packaged bandages, the upper protective layer is releasably attached to the lower protective layer.
US08052008B2 Electrical floor box cover with slide locks
One aspect of the present invention includes a cover assembly for a floor box supporting at least one receptacle mounted therein. The assembly comprises at least one cover plate, at least one lid and a lock. The cover plate for at least partially covering the floor box includes at least one lock receiving channel. The at least one lid is pivotally secured to the cover plate for movement between a closed position covering the receptacle and an open position permitting access to the receptacle. The lock retains the lid in the closed position. Also, the lock is disposed at least partially within the channel and moveable between a locking position for retaining the lid in the closed position and at least one release position wherein the lid is not retained by the lock.
US08052007B2 Container with integrated coolant seals
A container is disclosed including a plurality of seal blocks adapted to militate against the entry of a fluid into coolant channel headers formed in bipolar plates during a dip coating process, wherein the seal blocks are interconnected and include a fastening portion and a sealing portion, the sealing portion capable of being interchanged.
US08052005B2 Can end
A beverage can end is described. The beverage can end has a curl defining a perimeter of the can end, a chuckwall extending downwardly and radially inwardly from the curl, and a transition wall joining the chuckwall to an outer peripheral edge of a center panel. The transition wall is formed in compression such that a portion of the transition wall exhibits a compressed segment having a thickness which is 1% to 20% thicker than a thickness of the center panel.
US08052004B2 Releasable lockable lid
A releasably locking lid for a beverage container is disclosed. More specifically, lid embodiments include an outer surface, an inner surface, and a lip, the lid including a center piece and an outer ring that is configured to rotate relative to the center piece to releasably lock the container within a receiving space in the lid.
US08052003B2 Plug with recessed body portions for beverage container lid
A device and system for temporarily sealing an orifice in a beverage container lid, comprising a plug having an upper surface, a body portion and a lower surface, said body portion adapted to be inserted and releasably retained in the orifice to provide a temporary seal thereof, and an external member located on the upper surface of the plug configured to allow a user to grip the plug for ease of removal from the orifice.
US08051999B2 Threadable closure with split securing walls and locking notches
A closure construction of the present invention includes a container with male threading on the neck thereof with a pair of locking notches. The cap includes a pair of split arcuate walls with partial threading thereon, which provides, in cooperation with each other, a threaded connection between the cap and the male threading disposed thereby releasably securing the cap to the container. A pair of protrusions are connected to and emanate inwardly from the inner surface of the outer wall. The pair of protrusions are releasably respectively seated in the pair of locking notches when the cap is threaded past a predetermined point onto the neck of the container. When the cap is squeezed in a direction generally perpendicular to a line running through the protrusions, the protrusions lift out of their respective locking notches to permit the cap to be unthreaded from the container.
US08051996B1 Baby bottle with a spare nipple storage assembly
A baby bottle storage assembly includes a bottle that has a cylindrical body, a chamber formed therein, and has open top and closed bottom ends. First and second coextensive protective caps are conjoined to the top and bottom ends. The second protective cap has a cavity positioned adjacent to the body's bottom end, defining a storage chamber when the second protective cap is secured to the bottom end. A first discharge nozzle is intercalated between the first protective cap and the body's top end, and has a nipple protruding outwardly from the first protective cap. Spare discharge nozzles are housed within the storage chamber and are intercalated between the second protective cap and the body's bottom end such that the spare discharge nozzles are isolated from ambient surroundings. The first and spare discharge nozzles are formed from resilient rubber material.
US08051995B2 Energy dissipation device for a car body of a multi-member rail vehicle
An energy dissipation device (1) is provided for a car body of a multi-element vehicle in particular a rail vehicle, the energy dissipation device (1) having a damping unit (10) having a regeneratively implemented damping element (11) for damping traction and impact forces occurring in normal travel operation and an energy dissipation unit (20) having a destructively implemented energy dissipation element (21), and the energy dissipation element (21) being designed to respond after a previously determinable critical impact force is exceeded and to transmit at least a part of the impact forces transmitted via the energy dissipation device (1) into heat and deformation work by plastic deformation and thus dissipate them. In order that the energy dissipation device (1) only requires a small installation space, the damping unit (10) is integrated in the energy dissipation unit (20) in such a way that during a transmission of impact forces, the force flux runs through both the damping unit (10) and also the energy dissipation element (20).
US08051994B2 Sample storage apparatus
Disclosed is a sample storage apparatus in that a multilayered rotary table is formed in a liquid nitrogen vessel, so that a plurality of sample storage boxes is stored in the multilayered rotary table, whereby it can effectively and maximally ensure the space for storing the samples. The sample storage apparatus includes: a rotating axis 100; a rotary table 200 having an upper cylinder portion 210 protruded upward from an upper middle portion thereof and allowing the rotating axis 100 to be inserted therein and a lower cylinder portion 220 protruded downward from a lower middle portion thereof and allowing the rotating axis 100 to be inserted therein; at least one partition member 300 for partitioning off an upper surface of the rotary table 200 formed at the upper surface of the rotary table 200; a fixing member 400 coupled to one side of an outer circumference of the lower cylinder portion 220 through a hinge coupling portion 410 and having a lower portion protruded downward from a lower end of the lower cylinder portion 220 and a slanting portion formed at one side of an upper end thereof so as to form a fixing gap angle 430; and a latching member 500 formed along an outer circumference of the upper cylinder portion 210 and having a plurality of insertion holes 510 for allowing a lower end of the fixing member 400 to be inserted therein.
US08051988B2 Grain conveyor apparatus and system including separation capability
A grain conveying apparatus and system for conveying and separating elements of a grain mixture of a first minimum size, such as cob pieces, and a second maximum size smaller than the first minimum size, such as grain or corn, including an upper passage having at least one aperture generally smaller than the cob pieces and larger than the grain or corn. As the grain mixture is conveyed through the upper passage, the cob pieces will pass across the apertures, and the grain or corn will pass through the apertures to the lower passage thereby separating the elements of the grain mixture as it is conveyed from a source bin to separate receiving bins.
US08051987B2 System and method for wirelessly provisioning a mobile communication device
Systems and methods for wirelessly provisioning a mobile communication device are provided. To provision the mobile communication device to operate with an electronic messaging system, a provisioning request message may be generated at the mobile communication device. The provisioning request message may include a wireless identification for identifying the mobile communication device in a wireless network. The provisioning request message may be transmitted from the mobile communication device to the electronic messaging system using a pre-established communication link. In response to detecting the provisioning request message, the electronic messaging system may be provisioned by storing the wireless identification for use in communicating with the mobile communication device.
US08051984B1 Windowed seed pack envelope with wrap around window
A seed envelope having a window formed with an aperture extending not only through and entirely across the front panel of the envelope from one side edge to the laterally opposite side edge but also further extending beyond the side edges and onto the back of the envelope. A transparent sheet of window material extends beyond the aperture so as to overlap the sheet of envelope material in a peripheral overlap area around the aperture. The transparent sheet is folded along the laterally opposite side edges and bonded to the front panel and envelope panels connected to the sides of the front panel. Preferably, the aperture also extends beyond the bottom fold crease and into the panel that is connected to the bottom of the front panel and is folded onto the back of the envelope. The seed content is visible from the sides of the envelope and even the rear of the envelope adjacent its side and bottom edges. The bottom corners are strengthened by gussets and by downward extensions of the laterally opposite side panels.
US08051983B2 Peelable, child-resistant package for film-shaped drug forms
A package for flat, pliable objects, such as for wafer-shaped or film-shaped drug forms. The package has a carrier layer, a cover layer which is detachably connected to the carrier layer, and a first surface region wherein the carrier layer is not connected to the cover layer and is completely surrounded by a margin area. A cavity, enclosed on all sides, is formed for accommodating an object. The package has a second surface region wherein the carrier layer is not connected to the cover layer. At least one perforation line extends at least partially within the second surface region, and is provided both in the carrier layer and in the cover layer.Severing the perforation line forms a free edge of the cover layer which serves as a gripping aid and enables manual removal of the cover layer from the carrier layer. The disclosure further covers a process for packaging flat, pliable objects by forming the above-described package.
US08051982B2 Container for holding a stack of premoistened wipes
A container particularly well suited to hold premoistened wipes is described. The container can be formed primarily from flat polymeric sheets. In one embodiment, for instance, the container can be formed and loaded with a stack of wipes all in a single process. Further, the flat polymeric sheets used to form the container can be printed with various graphics during formation of the container so as to apply any suitable graphics to the container. Through the process of the present disclosure, containers can be formed having a sleek and compact design.
US08051981B2 Catheter product package and method of forming same
A catheter product package and method of forming same in which the package comprises a sheet material wrapped about the catheter product to form a package for the catheter product. The catheter product extends generally longitudinally within the package, and the sheet material extends from a point beyond the proximal end to a point beyond the distal end of the catheter product. The sheet material of the package is wrapped about the catheter product in a manner defining confronting proximal end edges, confronting distal end edges, and confronting side edges. The confronting proximal end edges, distal end edges and side edges of the sheet material are joined by a seal after the sheet material is wrapped about the catheter product to define a sealed cavity. The sheet material has a tear strip affixed to it which causes the sheet material to tear along the tear strip to thereby cause the package to open along an intended opening line. A method of forming a package for a catheter product comprises the steps of providing a sheet material for the package and placing the catheter product on the sheet material. It also includes affixing a tear strip to the sheet material and wrapping the sheet material around the catheter product. Further, the method includes the step of sealing the sheet material to form a sealed cavity with the catheter product being disposed within the sealed cavity.
US08051972B1 Non-uniform pulse-driven conveyor and method of using the same
The present invention is a conveyor using a non-uniform pulsating movement created by multiple interactions between a solenoid and switch to move parts along a transporting tray.
US08051970B2 Swinging chute linkage assembly
The hinge assembly of the present invention is a novel configuration that utilizes multiple arcuate shaped clevis elements. The configuration produces a compact, stable, and efficient means for transmitting an actuation force to retract or deploy one or more sections of a folding chute assembly utilized on transit concrete mixing vehicles.
US08051969B2 All-wheel drive (AWD) coupling with a variable travel ratio and wear compensation
In a torque coupling having an input flange, an input shaft, an actuator, and a multiple clutch pack, and a driving mechanism, the present invention broadly comprises an actuator for transferring the input toque to the output shaft. The actuator comprises an actuator plate which is limited to only rotational movement, a pressure plate which is limited to only axial movement, and a plurality of actuator pins. The driving mechanism rotates the actuator plate through a gear set and forces the actuator pins to move vertically. The vertical movement of the actuator pins forces the pressure plate in an axial direction. In a torque coupling, the actuator is used to transfer the input torque to the output shaft through compression of the multiple clutch pack by the actuator.
US08051965B2 Clutch actuator
A clutch actuator is configured to change operational force applied to a clutch in cases that a worm wheel is rotated by a motor. The clutch actuator may include a motor provided with a rotatable worm shaft, a screw thread formed along an exterior circumference of the worm shaft, a worm wheel provided with a worm gear engaging the screw thread, and a cam recess, an operation rod mounted to the worm wheel, the operation rod configured to engage or release a clutch, and a rotatable operation unit disposed within the cam recess, and configured to apply elastic force to the worm wheel. Methods of using the clutch actuator are also described.
US08051960B2 Braking apparatus for blind
A braking apparatus for a blind, used to reduce the speed of a shielding member of the blind when it is lifted and lowered, in which weights are stably supported and operated without an increase in the size of the braking apparatus. The braking apparatus has a casing, a rotor rotatably supported with in the casing, and weights adapted to rotate together with the rotor in such a way that they can be in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the casing. A cylindrical shaft portion and weight support portions radially projecting from the peripheral surface of the shaft portion at equal intervals in the circumferential direction are formed on the rotor. One end of each weight is swingably supported by the weight support portion extending over the axial-direction entire length of the weight.
US08051958B1 Guide pin for disc brake assembly and disc brake assembly including such a guide pin
An improved guide pin structure adapted for use in a vehicle disc brake assembly comprises a first end including a head portion; a second end including an end face and a lead-in zone, the lead-in zone provided with a rounded generally bullet nose shaped radius adapted for insertion into an aperture of a component of the vehicle disc brake assembly; and a center section defining a shank having a slide surface, the center section defining a guide pin axis; wherein the bullet nose shaped radius of the lead-in zone includes an axial offset relative to the end face and a radial offset relative to the slide surface, and wherein the axial offset is larger than the radial offset by a ratio of at least 2 to 1.
US08051954B2 Method and system for communicating with a controller of an elevator
The present invention includes a method and a system for communicating with a controller of an elevator car (10). A first input device (40) is inserted between a pair of elevator car sliding doors (12, 14). Energy beams (36) transmitted between the pair of elevator sliding doors (12, 14) are selectively blocked to communicate information to the controller.
US08051943B2 Car steering wheel electromechanical booster
The invention relates to car control means. The stator of an electric motor is provided with a magnet core comprising n pronounced poles and a rotor comprising n−2 poles embodied in the form of permanent magnets. The stator three-phase winding is provided with coils placed in the six equal alternating phase areas in such a way that one area is assigned to one pole and with several coils belonging to one phase in each phase area. The winding coils in the areas belonging to one phase are connected in a parallel aiding configuration. The steering wheel booster body is provided with input and output shafts which are interconnected with the aid of a torsion bar embodied in the form of a torque sensor sensing element and are linked with the sheering wheel and sheering mechanism by the other ends thereof. The electric motor rotor is mounted on the output shaft. The inventive device also comprises a controllable source for supplying the stator winding, a rotor position sensor and a control unit which is connected to the outputs of the torque and rotor position sensors by the inputs thereof and to the control input of the supply source by the output thereof. Said invention excludes the transmission of an outside disturbance torque to the steering wheel and makes it possible to improve the productability of the electric motor and the steering wheel buster and to increase the useful properties thereof.
US08051938B2 Seat mounting structure for motorcycle, and motorcycle incorporating same
A seat mounting structure having a seat rail for supporting a seat of a motorcycle includes seat rail members having front end portions thereof supported by an intermediate portion of a vehicle body frame. Each of the seat rail members extends rearwardly from the intermediate portion of the vehicle body frame. Each of the seat rail members has a slotted opening formed thereon at a rear portion thereof. The slotted openings are formed inwardly and upwardly from an outer portion of the seat rail members in a vehicle width direction.
US08051936B1 Human-portable remote control driving system
A human-portable modular system is provided for remotely controlling an automotive vehicle by an operator physically unconnected thereto. For a typical vehicle, the system includes a radio control transmitter that sends command signals from the operator, a pedal control assembly, a steering control assembly, an electronics case disposable on the driver's seat, coupling mechanisms that respectively connect said assemblies to the electronics case, and a package for stowing and transporting the transmitter, the electronics case, and the assemblies. The pedal control assembly includes a linkage arm, an actuator pivotably connected to the linkage arm at its proximate end, and first and second arms pivotably connected to the linkage arm to controllably push the respective control pedals for acceleration and braking. The steering control assembly includes a motor that provides torque, and an attachment that couples the motor to the vehicle's steering wheel. The electronics case includes a receiver that receives the command signals from the transmitter, a controller that communicates the command signals to the motor and the actuator, and a portable power supply to provide electrical power to the controller and to the receiver. The package can include shoulder straps to facilitate backpack transport. The coupling mechanisms include detachable hinge connectors to pivotably attach the pedal control and steering control assemblies to the electronics case. The pedal control assembly can further include near the linkage arm's distal end a linkage arm feedback potentiometer that sends an angular position indicator signal to the controller.
US08051932B2 Method of compensating for auxiliary loads of hybrid vehicle
The present invention provides a method of compensating for auxiliary loads of a hybrid vehicle, which divides the auxiliary loads into a mechanical auxiliary load and an electrical auxiliary load and performs an appropriate auxiliary load compensation according to the kind of auxiliary loads, thus improving system efficiency as well as power performance of the vehicle.
US08051929B2 Core drill bits with enclosed fluid slots
Core drill bits with long crown heights are described herein. The core drill bits have a series of slots or openings that are not located at the tip of the crown and are therefore enclosed in the body of the crown. The slots may be staggered and/or stepped throughout the crown. As the cutting portion of the drill bit erodes through normal use, the fluid/debris notches at the tip of the bit are eliminated. As the erosion progresses, the slots become exposed and then they function as fluid/debris ways. This configuration allows the crown height to be extended and lengthened without substantially reducing the structural integrity of the drill bit.
US08051927B2 Percussive drill bit for rock drilling and method for the manufacture of such a drill bit
A drill bit for percussive rock drilling of the type that comprises a front head and a tubular skirt, which extends rearward from the head to a rear, ring-shaped end and includes an internal thread for the transfer of combined impact and rotary motions to the drill bit is disclosed. The rear end of the skirt is, via an unelastic joint, e.g., a friction weld, united to a front end of a sleeve having an envelope surface, from which a plurality of projections are peripherically spaced-apart from each other project, e.g., ridges, having the purpose of guiding the drill bit in the drill hole. By assembling the drill bit of two parts, the internal thread can be turned with high accuracy and smoothness, at the same time as the drill bit is given an inherent good controllability. In an additional aspect, a method for the manufacture of such a drill bit is also disclosed.
US08051925B2 Core barrel assemblies with braking devices
A braking device for drilling operations in a borehole includes a brake retainer having a plurality of brake connector openings defined therein, a body member having a tapered surface having a first diameter and a second diameter, the second diameter being larger than the first diameter, at least one brake element positioned at least partially between the brake retainer and the body member and in communication with the tapered surface and at least one of the brake connector openings, and a bias member configured to exert a biasing force on the body member to move the body member toward the brake retainer to move the brake element from contact with the first diameter of the tapered surface toward contact with the second diameter.
US08051924B2 Methods of braking core barrel assemblies
A braking device for drilling operations in a borehole includes a brake retainer having a plurality of brake connector openings defined therein, a body member having a tapered surface having a first diameter and a second diameter, the second diameter being larger than the first diameter, at least one brake element positioned at least partially between the brake retainer and the body member and in communication with the tapered surface and at least one of the brake connector openings, and a bias member configured to exert a biasing force on the body member to move the body member toward the brake retainer to move the brake element from contact with the first diameter of the tapered surface toward contact with the second diameter.
US08051922B2 Hand-held power tool with vibration compensator
A hand-held power tool (1;101) includes a drive (6;110) located in the power tool housing (2;102) for driving a working tool (111), and a torsional pendulum (4; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520) at least partially mounted on the housing (2; 102) for compensating vibrations generated by the drive (6; 110).
US08051914B2 Well packing
Annular packer (2) arranged on the outside of a production tubing (4) said packer comprises a core (12) comprising elastic polymer swelling by absorption of hydrocarbons. The core (12) may be surrounded by an external mantle of rubber (10), which is permeable to hydrocarbons and may be equipped with a reinforcement (11). The core (12) swells by absorption of hydrocarbons and the packer (2) expands thus in order to seal the annular space (5) between the production tubing (4) and the well wall (6).
US08051911B2 Method of fracturing a subterranean formation at optimized and pre-determined conditions
Prior to a hydraulic fracturing treatment, the requisite injection rate for a desired propped fracture length of a fracture may be estimated with knowledge of certain physical properties of the proppant and transport fluid such as fluid viscosity, proppant size and specific gravity of the transport slurry as well as fracture geometry and the fracture length.
US08051908B2 Biogenic fuel gas generation in geologic hydrocarbon deposits
A method for stimulating methane production from a carbonaceous material is described. The methods may include the step of contacting the material with cells of a methanogenic consortium under anaerobic conditions to form a reaction mixture. The method may also include maintaining anaerobic conditions for a time sufficient to permit methanogenesis, and collecting methane from anaerobic water or head space of the reaction mixture.
US08051902B2 Solid matrix tube-to-tube heat exchanger
A heat exchanger includes a heat-exchange section including a first group of tubes and a second group of tubes alternating with the first group of tubes. The first and second groups of tubes are in contact with a heat-conductive medium. In one structure, a first inlet manifold at a first end of the heat-exchange section is fluidly coupled to first ends of the first group of tubes. A first outlet manifold is isolated from the first inlet manifold and is fluidly coupled to first ends of the second group of tubes. A second inlet manifold at a second end of the heat-exchange section is fluidly coupled to second ends of the second group of tubes. A second outlet manifold is isolated from the second inlet manifold and is fluidly coupled to second ends of the first group of tubes.
US08051900B2 Internal jet inpingement type shell and tube heat exchanger
This invention relates to an internal jet impingement type shell and tube heat exchanger in which the jet cooling tubes and the heating tubes in shell and tube heat exchanger are formed either as a staggered tube bundle or as a square tube bundle, and the orifices on each jet cooling tube are provided according to the arrangement of tube bundle. Thus, the heat transfer performance of jet impingement type shell and tube heat exchanger is remarkably enhanced.
US08051898B2 Water cooling type heat dissipation module for electronic device
A water cooling type heat dissipation module for an electronic device includes a base disk, a suction disk, a water guide and a cover. The base has two containing spaces and a plurality of cooling strips in the containing space. The suction base is attached to the base disk and further includes two water chambers for receiving sucked water, two inlets and two outlets. The water guide is attached to the suction disk with two guide port at the periphery thereof. The cover closes the suction disk and is movably joined to a guide fan. When the heat dissipation module is full with fluid, the fluid can flow therein rapidly while the guide fan rotating such that the fluid is discharged from and flows into the heat dissipation module more effectively.
US08051896B2 Apparatus for spreading heat over a finned surface
An apparatus for spreading heat over a plurality of fins is provided. The apparatus includes a heat dissipating member composed of metal and having a plurality of fins on a first side of the heat dissipating member. The apparatus also includes a plurality of strips of thermal material having a thermal conductivity in a direction parallel to the heat dissipating member higher than a thermal conductivity of the heat dissipating member, the plurality of strips disposed on a side of the heat dissipating member opposite of the first side and configured to spread heat along the heat dissipating member.
US08051894B2 Centering submerged entry nozzle for continuous casting of metal slab
The present invention relates to an apparatus for centering a submerged entry nozzle. The present invention includes: a plurality of laser beam generators 20 that is disposed above a mold 3 for continuous casting to radiate a laser beam toward the center of the mold; a tundish moving unit 15 that moves a tundish 1 above the mold 3; and a control unit that is linked with the laser beam generators 20 and controls the tundish moving unit 15 to center the installation position of the submerged entry nozzle 5 provided at the lower portion of the tundish, in response to signals transmitted from the laser beam generators 20. According to the present invention, in addition to accurately and quickly centering the submerged entry nozzle 5, it is possible to maintain the submerged entry nozzle that has been centered, such that it is possible to minimize a channeling phenomenon of molten steel. Accordingly, it can be expected to improve the quality of a slab.
US08051887B2 Primary and counter knife assembly for use in wood chipper
A wood chipper having a rotatable disc that contains a series of slots that pass through the disc. A primary chipper knife is located at the entrance of each slot which separates slices from a work piece and directs the slices through the slot. A counter knife unit is mounted within each slot for engaging the slices leaving the primary chipper knife to reduce the size of the chips as they move through the slot. The counter knife unit contains a first series of spaced apart chip contact elements that have a first height to contact the slices as they leave the primary chipper knife to reduce the size of the slices. The counter knife further contains a second series of chip contact elements that have a second height that is less than that of the chip contact element in the first series. Each contact element in the second series is arranged to contact chips leaving the contact elements in the first series to further reducing the size of the chips.
US08051886B2 Distressing process and apparatus for applying such process
A method is provided for treating the decorative face of a panel to simulate the visual effect of a distressed panel. The decorative face may include at least a layer of wood or the like. The method may involve passing the panel with respect to two or more distressing tools. The passing may be performed in an automated way by first driving means. The method may also involve advancing the distressing tools intermittently toward the moving panel to apply distress marks. The intermittently advancing may be performed in an automated way by second, third and optional further driving means. At least one of the passing of the panel and the advancing of the distressing tools toward the moving panel may be performed according to an irregular rhythm in order to obtain irregularly spaced distress marks. At least one of the first driving means, the second driving means, the third driving means, and the optional further driving means is steered by and therefore coupled to program means.
US08051877B2 Diverter valve and assembly
A diverter valve assembly is used in a material handling system and may include a diverter valve, an actuator, a chute, and a material handling line. The diverter valve has a body that defines an inlet bore and a pair of outlet bores. A rotor is located within the body and rotates, depending on factors, between the pair of outlet bores. The actuator is connected to the rotor in a way that it can rotate the rotor. The chute communicates with the inlet bore. And a material handling line communicates with each of the pair of outlet bores.
US08051874B2 Replaceable outlet liner for control valve
A liner assembly adapted to line a valve body of a control valve comprises a sleeve, a liner and a retainer. The sleeve has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface defines a bore. The outer surface is adapted to be disposed in engagement with the outlet of the control valve. The liner is slidably disposed within the bore of the sleeve. The retainer is in engagement with the liner to removably secure the liner within the sleeve.
US08051871B2 Irrigation control system
A tensiometer for use in determining matric potential of a soil comprising: a water inlet; a hydraulic coupler comprising a porous material for providing hydraulic coupling between water that enters the inlet and the soil; and a septum that seals water that enters the inlet against ingress of air via the porous material.
US08051870B2 Pressure reduction process device, pressure reduction process method, and pressure regulation valve
The object of the present invention is to provide a low pressure processing system having no possibility of leakage at a valve provided in an exhaust passage when the valve is closed, and capable of reducing a load of maintenance work. An exhaust pipe 3 connected to a reaction tube 1 is provided therein with a gate valve 4 for hermetically closing the exhaust passage. A purge gas is jetted, from jetting ports circumferentially arranged respectively in a valve seat and a valving element of the gate valve, into a gap between the valve seat and the valving element. This prevents foreign objects originated from a process gas from adhering to those surfaces of the valve seat and the valving element that face the gap between the valve seat and valving element, improving sealing capability of the gate valve.
US08051869B2 Gravity operated valve
A valve includes a valve body defining a valve cavity. The valve body has first and second inlet ports, an outlet port, and a dump port. A weighted member is positioned in the valve cavity and is movable between first and second positions. In the first position, the first inlet port is fluidically connected to the outlet port and the second inlet port is fluidically connected to the dump port. In the second position, the second inlet port and the dump port are fluidically connected to the outlet port.
US08051863B2 Methods of and apparatus for correlating gap value to meniscus stability in processing of a wafer surface by a recipe-controlled meniscus
Apparatus monitors a meniscus process that is performed on wafers. Monitoring data for a current process received by a processor indicates characteristics of a gap between the wafer and a process head. The processor is configured to respond to the data that is in the form of orientation monitor signals and to respond to a current recipe. The processor generates meniscus monitor signals for allowing the meniscus to remain stable in further meniscus processing. The monitoring is of current meniscus processing to determine whether a current gap (i) is other than a desired gap of the current recipe, and (ii) corresponds to a stable meniscus. If so, a calibration recipe is identified as specifying the current gap. This calibration recipe specifies parameters for meniscus processing the wafer surface with the current gap. The meniscus processing of the wafer surface is continued using the parameters specified by the identified calibration recipe.
US08051860B1 Eyebrow makeup application device
An eyebrow makeup application device includes a handle and an eyebrow-shaped stamp. The handle is preferably configured with a first handle end comprising a first fastening connection and with a grip section. The stamp has a skin-facing front surface configured with the desired eyebrow design. The front surface is configured to contact the cosmetic coloring composition and to retain enough of the composition to imprint the desired eyebrow design onto the eyebrow area. A second fastening connection on the rear base of the stamp is configured to connect the stamp to the handle via the first fastening connection, either permanently or removably.
US08051856B2 Tracheostomy valves and related methods
The embodiments of the present tracheostomy valves include a flexible diaphragm abutting a rib shaped substantially as a flat plate. Opposite the rib, the diaphragm abuts a boss and forms an uninterrupted seal therewith. As the tracheostomized patient inhales, the diaphragm bends about the rib, interrupting the seal and allowing air to flow smoothly into the valve. The features of the various embodiments contribute to a positive seal at all times except during inhalation, and low resistance to airflow through the valve during inhalation.
US08051852B2 Methods and apparatus for varying the back-up rate for a ventilator
A ventilator device delivers ventilatory support to a patient in a back up timed mode when patient respiration is not detected or a spontaneous mode when patient respiration is detected. The timing threshold governing the back-up mode is chosen to deviate from normal expected respiration time for the patient to promote patient initiated ventilation in the spontaneous mode but permit back-up ventilation in the event of apnea. Automated adjustments to the timing threshold during the timed mode are made from the less vigilant timing threshold to a more vigilant threshold at or near a timing of normal expected breathing of the patient. Such adjustments may be made from a minimum to a maximum vigilance timing settings or incrementally there between as a function of time in the timed mode which is preferably the number of delivered machine breaths.
US08051849B2 Gas cooking appliance with a concealable control panel
A gas cooking appliance having a plurality of spaced-apart taps situated in fixed and non-moveable locations within the gas cooking appliance, each of the taps having a rotatable operating shaft coupled to an associated control knob situated on a pivoting control panel. The pivoting control panel is connected to a pivot shaft and is pivotal between a first angular position and a second angular position. Each of the control knobs is coupled to its associated tap by a coupling, each of the couplings including a stationary transmission, a pivoting transmission shaft having a first end and a second end and a joint that couples the pivoting transmission shaft to the stationary transmission shaft. The pivot shaft, by means of which the control panel pivots, being situated proximate the coupling joints.
US08051843B2 Structure for introducing gas into intake air
Exhaust gas inlets for introducing exhaust gas from an EGR pipe, on the right bank side, and exhaust gas inlets for introducing exhaust gas from the EGR pipe, on the left bank side, are both formed in low-pressure regions. The exhaust gas inlets are formed at positions where the pressure of the intake air flowing through branch pipes on the right bank side and the pressure of the intake air flowing through branch pipes on the left bank side are both low and substantially equal. Accordingly, exhaust gas is introduced evenly into cylinders in the right and left banks. These inlets are not formed at positions in a common intake passage from which branch paths branch off, that is, positions upstream of a surge tank. Accordingly, the response to introduction of exhaust gas is not deteriorated but is maintained.
US08051841B2 Charging fluid intake module and internal combustion engine
A charging fluid suctions module is provided for an internal combustion engine, comprising a housing forming a flow path for a gaseous charging fluid, particularly air, a gas, and/or an air/gas mixture. Whereby, a heat exchanger is disposed in the housing for the gaseous charging fluid. In order to allow for an improved exhaust gas return the housing comprise an inlet channel for an exhaust gas, and the inlet channel flows into the flow path downstream of the heat exchanger for the gaseous charging fluid.
US08051840B2 Apparatus for reducing fuel waxing
A fuel filter for an internal combustion engine is provided comprising a fuel conduit configured to transport fuel from a fuel tank to an internal combustion engine. A fuel filter manifold has an inlet and an outlet for fluid communication with the fuel conduit. A fuel filter housing is associated with the fuel filter manifold and is configured to receive fuel from and dispense fuel to the fuel filter manifold. A filter element is disposed within the fuel filter housing between the inlet and the outlet and is configured to filter fuel passing through the fuel filter housing. An electromagnetic transducer is associated with the fuel filter and is configured to emit high frequency waves operable on the fuel to reduce, via ultrasonic cavitation, wax crystals suspended in the fuel.
US08051835B2 Internal combustion engine and internal combustion engine control method
In a V-type six-cylinder engine, turbo-superchargers are provided for compressing intake air and feeding the compressed air into combustion chambers, and an ECU is operable to switch the combustion mode from a non-supercharged stoichiometric combustion mode to a supercharged lean combustion mode, depending on the engine operating conditions. When switching from the non-supercharged stoichiometric combustion mode to the supercharged lean combustion mode, the ECU retards the ignition timing, and keeps the retard amount of the ignition timing at a constant value if the increasing actual boost pressure becomes equal to or higher than a pre-set target boost pressure.
US08051832B2 Air intake control system for internal combustion engine of a vehicle
An air intake control system is provided for an internal combustion engine of a vehicle. The control system includes an intake port of a cylinder head for an engine main body, a throttle body having a throttle valve and connected to the intake port, an electric actuator having an electric motor and arranged on the throttle body to drive open or close the throttle valve, and a connector disposed on a housing of the electric actuator in a position facing toward one axial end of a crankshaft. The connector is provided in order to connect to an outside conductor to the electric motor of the electric actuator. The resulting configuration facilitates the work to connecting the outside conductor to the connector.
US08051830B2 Two-stroke uniflow turbo-compound internal combustion engine
A reciprocating two-stroke uniflow internal combustion (IC) cylinder and multiple cylinder engine, the cylinder having a cylinder wall and a cylinder head, the cylinder head having an exhaust port, a fuel injector, and a spark means disposed through the cylinder head, a piston reciprocally mounted in the cylinder for movement alternately through compression and power strokes, and a scroll plenum extending unidirectional around the outside of the cylinder wall and having an inlet and a plurality of swirl ports disposed through the cylinder wall providing fluid communication from the scroll plenum into the cylinder chamber, wherein the plurality of swirl ports enter the cylinder chamber tangentially with respect to the axial centerline of the cylinder, and wherein the plurality of swirl ports are subject to opening and closing in response to movement of said piston.
US08051828B2 Multiple fuel system for internal combustion engines
A fuel management system mounted on a vehicle is operative to feed individually or a mixture of grades of relatively low, intermediate, and high autoignition temperature fuels to an associated internal combustion engine. The system includes an on board separation unit (OBS unit) for receiving and separating intermediate autoignition temperature (IAT) fuel into low and high autoignition temperature fuels, LAT and HAT, respectively. The production rate of the LAT and HAT fuels by the OBS unit is controlled to substantially match the consumption requirements of the engine at any given time for the LAT and HAT fuels.
US08051826B2 Injection system for an internal combustion engine
The present invention relates to an internal combustion engine having an injector which functions as a positive displacement pump and dispenses an amount of lubricant fixed for each and every operation of the injector. The fluid dispensed could be a lubricant delivered directly to crankshaft bearings, camshaft bearings, tappets or cylinder sleeve. Alternatively the fluid could be fuel, water or urea delivered to an exhaust system upstream of a catalytic converter. The injector can have a one-way valve with a valve element having a domed or conical surface for directing fluid flow across a sharp edge which induces turbulence in the fluid flow.
US08051825B2 Through-bolted rocker bar assembly
An engine assembly may include an engine block, a cylinder head, and a valvetrain assembly. The cylinder head may be fixed to the engine block. The valvetrain assembly may include a valve actuating member, a support member, and a first fastener engaged with the support member and the engine block that fixes the support member to the engine block. The valve actuating member may be rotatably supported on the support member.
US08051818B2 Dual independent phasing system to independently phase the intake and exhaust cam lobes of a concentric camshaft arrangement
A dual independent phasing system (DIPS) phaser assembly for coaxial camshafts having two axially stacked, thin phasing subassemblies which are each conventional vane-cell type phaser assemblies is provided. These phasers are preassembled together as a unit to make one DIPS phaser assembly. The rotor of the rear phaser is attached to the outer camshaft of the coaxial cam, and the rotor of the front phaser is attached to the inner camshaft. The radial force from the timing chain or belt is transmitted to the outer camshaft via a chain ring or pulley connected to the stator of the rear phaser. In order to provide for ease of mounting, the DIPS phaser assembly (including the front and rear phasers) is attached to the outer camshaft via mounting bolts which are passed through openings in the rotor of the front phaser in order to attach the rear phaser rotor to the outer camshaft. A central mounting bolt is used to connect the front phaser rotor to the inner camshaft. A radially stacked DIPS phaser assembly is also provided which offers further reduced axial space requirements.
US08051817B2 Variable valve mechanism
The present invention provides a variable valve mechanism which includes a camshaft having a drive cam, a rocker shaft provided parallel to the camshaft, and a variable mechanism that is provided on the rocker shaft and interposed between the drive cam and a valve, and that changes an opening/closing amount of the valve. The variable mechanism includes a main arm that engages with the drive cam, a cam arm that has a cam surface pressing the valve, a control cam that is provided on the rocker shaft, and has an outer peripheral surface whose distance from a shaft center of the rocker shaft varies gradually, and a displacement member whose distance from the shaft center is changed by turning of the control cam. A relative phase between the main arm and the cam arm is displaced as the distance between the displacement member and the shaft center changes.
US08051816B2 V-type engine for vehicle
A V-type engine for a vehicle is provided with front and rear banks including intake and exhaust valves exposed to a combustion chamber, a valve operating device for operating the engine valves, a valve stop mechanism for stopping the operation of the engine valves according to an operational condition of the vehicle, and an actuator for driving a throttle valve. A valve stop mechanism is provided in either the front bank or the rear bank. An actuator provided in one of the front bank and the rear bank excluding the valve stop mechanism is lower in height than the actuator provided in the other of the front bank. By reducing the height of one of the front bank or the rear bank, an adequate capacity of an air cleaner and a fuel tank can be ensured
US08051815B2 Engine
A valve stopping mechanism wherein when hydraulic fluid pressure is low a cylinder operating state is set and a response of a switch from a cylinder stop state to the cylinder operating state is high. An intake valve and an exhaust valve, a first intake valve spring and a first exhaust valve spring are provided for energizing the valves in the direction of closing the valves, valve drive cams, valve stopping mechanisms, on the basis of a stop hydraulic fluid pressure and energization of plunger springs, for selectively generating valve operating and valve stop states. The valve stopping mechanism generates the operating state when the energizing force of the plunger spring is larger than the press force of the stop hydraulic fluid pressure and generates the stop state when the press force of the stop hydraulic fluid pressure is larger than the energizing force of the plunger spring.
US08051814B2 Engine
A simpler configuration of a mechanism for stopping intake/exhaust valves opened/closed by a valve opening/closing mechanism of a rocker arm. An engine E includes an exhaust valve for opening/closing an exhaust port of an exhaust path with a first exhaust valve spring for energizing the exhaust valve in a valve closing direction. An exhaust valve drive cam is rotated in correspondence with the rotation of an engine crankshaft. A rocker arm is swingably provided between the exhaust valve and the exhaust valve drive cam with one end that abuts on the exhaust valve drive cam being pressed according to rotation of the exhaust valve drive cam and swinging to press the exhaust valve by a press member at the other end to move to the open side. An exhaust valve stopping mechanism is provided between the press member of the rocker arm and the exhaust valve.
US08051813B2 Scroll compressor with two scrolls
A scroll compressor for compressible fluids includes a fixed housing having a spiral-shaped feed chamber which contains a working fluid. A displacement member interacts with the feed chamber and includes a driveshaft which is supported in the housing and has an eccentric disk, a carrier disk which is mounted on the driveshaft, and spiral blades which extend out from both sides of the carrier disk. The displacement member is supported by a bearing on the eccentric disk. A lubricant supply system feeds lubricant to the bearing via the driveshaft and the eccentric disk, with a seal assembly sealing a lubricant chamber against the feed chamber. A pressure regulating valve substantially maintains during operation a differential between a pressure in the feed chamber acting on one side of the seal assembly and a pressure in the lubricant chamber acting on another side of the seal assembly, with the pressure regulating valve being acted upon by the pressure in the feed chamber and by the pressure in the lubricant chamber.
US08051811B2 Knock resistant split-cycle engine
An engine has a rotatable crankshaft. A compression piston is received within a compression cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the compression piston reciprocates through an intake stroke and a compression stroke during a single rotation of the crankshaft. An expansion piston is received within an expansion cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the expansion piston reciprocates through an expansion stroke and an exhaust stroke during a single rotation of the crankshaft. A crossover passage interconnects the compression and expansion cylinders. The crossover passage includes a crossover compression valve and a crossover expansion valve defining a pressure chamber therebetween. A fuel injector is disposed in the pressure chamber of the crossover passage. Fuel injection from the fuel injector into the crossover passage is timed to occur entirely during the compression stroke of the compression piston.
US08051809B2 Engine cooling system for a vehicle
The invention relates to a system which is used to cool at least one piece of motor vehicle equipment to a low temperature, comprising a heat transfer fluid circulation loop. According to the invention, a low-temperature heat exchanger (60) and at least one equipment exchanger (102) are mounted to the aforementioned circulation loop. The heat exchange surface of the equipment exchanger (102) is divided into at least first and second heat exchange sections (104,106). A first flow (Q1) of heat-transfer fluid passes through the first heat exchange section (104), while a second smaller flow (Q2) passes through the second section. The invention is suitable for motor vehicle heat exchangers.
US08051807B2 Sow chute and hoist
A vertically moveable immobilizing sow chute to allow hoisting and holding horizontally of a sow for foot treatment is described. The unit avoids the use of slings, can be operated electrically, and has numerous fail safe features as well as mobility and stability.
US08051804B1 Toilet training device for pets
A system and method of customizing a flush toilet to help train an animal to utilize the toilet when making waste. A primary tray is provided. The primary tray is placed over the toilet. An opening is formed in the primary tray. If a pet in training becomes tentative, the opening is reduced in size or eliminated by the use of a supplemental tray. The supplemental tray is sized to cover only the part of the primary tray that holds litter. With the litter removed, the supplemental tray is placed atop or under the primary tray. If no opening is desired, no opening is formed. If a smaller opening is desired, an opening of the appropriate size is made in the supplemental tray. The supplemental tray is then filled with litter and is used to train an animal as if it were part of the primary tray.
US08051795B2 Storage and packaging of bulk food items and method
A semi-automated food processing station, system and method is provided that allows food to be dispensed, stored and packaged in a suitable container, which may be an individual portion-sized container for serving to a customer. In one embodiment, the system includes an automated salting device, and may include a pivotable food receiving tray that automatically transfers the food items to one or more storage bins, where an infrared heater maintains the temperature of the food items by directing infrared radiation thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the infrared radiation passes through a filter that filters out the wavelengths of infrared radiation that may be irritating to an operator.
US08051794B2 Rowing boat footrest assembly
A rowing boat footrest assembly includes a footrest member coupled to a boat structure and a shoe retaining mechanism supported to the footrest member. The shoe retaining mechanism includes a permanent magnet mechanism operable between a shoe retaining mode and a shoe releasing mode.
US08051790B2 LCAC lander, launcher and lifter
Presented is an advance naval ship's stern appendage called an LCAC (Landing Craft Air Cushion) Lander, Launcher and Lifter (L4 system) to provide for landing and launching of amphibious hovercraft and increase the delivery capacity of amphibious hovercraft by naval vessels. The stern appendage which may be retrofitted on existing vessels or fully designed into new hull forms of new ships. Included in the stern appendage are longitudinally extending cantilever wingwalls, at least one hoistable platform with a backstop fold up gate, a med-moor ramp, drainage ducts, a resistance reduction leading edge, locking pins and a transfer conveyor system for amphibious hovercraft to gain access to and from the ship's decks above the waterline, and a hoisting system for raising and lowering the hoistable platform between said cantilever wingwalls.
US08051788B2 Driving device for thread hooking mechanism for sewing machine
A sewing machine includes upper and lower beams. A thread hooking mechanism is mounted in the lower beam. A needle plate base is mounted to an end of the lower beam. A transmission shaft rotatably extends in the lower beam and has an end extending into the needle plate base. The transmission shaft can be driven by a power source. A driving device is mounted to the end of the lower beam and includes a transmission gear fixed on the end of the transmission shaft, a driven shaft rotatably received in the needle plate base and having an end coupled to the thread hooking mechanism, and a driven gear fixed on the driven shaft and connected to the transmission gear, with the driven shaft and the thread hooking mechanism rotating at a speed higher than the transmission shaft.
US08051787B2 Embroidery sewing machine
The microswitch 6 is turned on when the foldable Y arm 1 is in the operative position for embroidery stitching and is turned off when the Y arm 1 is not in the operative position, and the X-Y motor drive prohibition device 87 is responsive to the on-signal of the microswitch 6 to withdraw the prohibition of driving and to drive the X-and Y-drive motors 15, 46.
US08051784B2 Folding device for a tabletop
A folding device for a tabletop includes a pivot, a first bracket, and a latch mechanism. The pivot is fixed with a pedestal and a base is mounted on the pivot. An opening is defined in the base and extends therethrough longitudinally. The first bracket connects to the pivot rotatably for adapting to the tabletop. The latch mechanism includes a fixed mount, a sliding block, and a paw. The fixed mount is secured to the first bracket and includes a passage corresponding to the opening in the base. The sliding block moves in the passage and includes a groove. The paw connects to the fixed mount pivotally and elastically and includes a first end selectively engaging with the sliding block. The tabletop is un-rotatable when the sliding block extends into the opening in the base.
US08051783B1 Display table assembly
A display table assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a perimeter wall with an upper edge defining an opening extending into the housing. A plurality of legs extends downwardly from the bottom wall. An upper wall is hingedly coupled to the upper edge and is positionable in an open position exposing the opening or in a closed position closing the opening. The upper wall has a plurality of apertures extending therethrough. A power strip is mounted within the housing. Plug members are positionable in the apertures to plug the apertures. Multiple articles are positionable on the top side of the upper wall and each covers one of the apertures. Power cords for the articles are extendable through an associated one of the apertures to be plugged into the power strip.
US08051779B2 Railcar cover
A railcar having a longitudinal axis and a movable cover. The movable cover includes a plurality of linear bearing devices and at least one slideable hatch connected to the plurality of linear bearing devices. The slideable hatch is movable substantially normal to the longitudinal axis.
US08051771B2 Belt routing in a round baler
An improved mechanism for directing movement of a plurality of side-by-side belts in a round baler wherein a bale chamber is optimally configured for bale core formation thereby reducing the need for an aggressive surface on the belts to initiate rotation of the incoming crop material. As the bale expands, the improved mechanism enables the unguided span of belts surrounding the periphery of the bale to be minimized by positioning intermediate guide rolls generally equidistantly from idler rolls bounding the belt guides defining the bale forming chamber. Further, the improved mechanism reduces the friction force between the crop and the belts necessary to initiate crop rolling for bale core formation enabling smooth-surfaced belts to be used which reduce trash generation.
US08051769B2 Food processor with cleaning tool
A food processor having a dicing tool and an automatic cleaning tool to clean out the dicing tool.
US08051762B2 Explosive round countermeasure system
A countermeasure system which is capable of defusing rocket propelled grenades (RPG) is provided by spacing an array of explosive charges or primacord from the protected structure to allow and sense an ogive of the fused RPG to enter into a functional plane of the array initiating one or more of the charges to collapse to ogive. The array is supported flexibly or rigidly and further ballistic protection is incorporated behind the array in fixed or inflatable forms to provide protection of the structure from the explosive products from the array and the ballistic impact of the defused RPG.
US08051761B1 System and methods for broad area visual obscuration
A system and methods for broad area visual obscuration around a platform. In one embodiment the system comprises a source of visible light, shaping optics and projecting optics. The system projects a light beam onto an illumination area in a sweeping pattern to repetitively illuminate all portions of the illumination area, such that a stationary observer within the illumination area receives repeating pulses of the light at a power, intensity, frequency and duration sufficient to visually impair the observer so as to substantially prevent the observer from discerning the platform between pulses. The light pulses are capable of temporarily blinding human eyes but incapable of causing permanent vision loss.
US08051760B2 Microtome having concentric operating elements for controlling a motor unit
A microtome for producing thin sections for microscopy is suggested that has a high level of automation and can be operated ergonomically. The microtome has a sectioning knife, a specimen holder, a first and a second motor unit operating the knife, a control system and an operating unit comprising a first and a second operating element. The first operating element controls the relative displacement between the sectioning knife and specimen holder, while the second operating element adjusts the advance rate of the displacement. The first operating element is a rotating ring and the second element is a rotary knob, concentrically within the rotating ring.
US08051756B2 Band saw blade and cutting method
Concave/convex portions are consecutively formed on a back of a band saw blade. The concave/convex portions include concave portions engageable with and disengageable from a backup guide of a band saw guide unit, and convex portions adjacent to the concave portions. A length of each of the concave/convex portions is configured to be equal to or smaller than four times a maximum pitch of a tooth top of each tooth.
US08051755B2 Bar feeder, feed rod vibration prevention support of material feeder and vibration stopper of material feeder
A feed rod vibration prevention support of a material feeder includes a guide device for guiding a feed rod moving to feed a material to a working machine, and a vibration attenuation mechanism for preventing the feed rod from being vibrated. The guide device further includes a guide and a bush supported by the guide having a feed rod placed thereon. The vibration attenuation mechanism includes a first elastic material located between the bush and the guide. The bush is provided with a flanged portion.
US08051753B2 Tapered turning lathe
A radially adjustable drive bracket (126) is affixed to, and rotatable with the drive gear (32), and a radially adjustable support bracket (128) is affixed to, and rotatable with the driven gear (42). A pair of parallel slide rails (30) are coupled at opposite ends to the drive bracket (126) and support bracket (128). A cutting head assembly (28) is slidably mounted on the slide rails (30), wherein a threaded lead screw (124) carrying a traveling nut (134) thereon causes longitudinal displacement of the cutting head assembly (28) along the slide rails (30). A cam arm (140) coupled through a one-way clutch to the lead screw (124) and adapted to be actuated by a tripper assembly (136) mounted so as to engage the cam arm (140) during orbiting movement of the drive and driven gear (32, 42).
US08051746B2 Ratchet wrench with collar-actuated reversing mechanism
A ratchet wrench has a handle and a ratchet housing that both extend along a first axis. A drive body is connected for rotation relative to the ratchet housing about a second axis, perpendicular to the first axis. A yoke substantially encircles the body and is connected to the ratchet housing and a direction selector is coupled to the drive body and extends along the second axis. The direction selector is rotatable about the second axis with respect to the drive body between a first position, in which the yoke is fixed for counterclockwise rotation with the drive body about the second axis, and a second position, in which the yoke is fixed for clockwise rotation with the drive body about the second axis. A direction actuator is connected to the direction selector for rotation about the first axis to move the direction selector between the first and second positions.
US08051745B2 Method and apparatus for tensioning an emergency brake system on a vehicle
An apparatus and associated method for use in tensioning a park brake cable system includes a body including a housing and an input shaft, the input shaft positioned at least partially within the housing, the housing and the input shaft being axially movable relative to one another, and the input shaft and the outer housing being rotatable relative to one another, the body having a nut receiving recess. The cable system is tensioned by retracting the nut from its support surface, tensioning the system by rotating the nut, and relieving the nut back to its support surface. A control system is used to control the operation of the tensioning device, and is programmable to perform several associated functions.
US08051744B2 Locking differential
A locking differential mechanism for supplying torque from a driveshaft to a pair of aligned output shafts including a pair of side gears, a central driver, and a pair of clutch members operatively coupled for rotation with the corresponding one of the pair of side gears. A cam assembly includes a pair of cam members. Each of the pair of cam members includes a plurality of camming teeth extending toward the corresponding teeth on the opposed cam member. Each of the cam members is movable from a first position where the cam teeth are disposed in meshing relationship with respect to each other when the pair of side gears are rotating at substantially the same speed and a second position spaced axially from the first position along the associated side gear so as to move an associated clutch member from its first position to its second position out of driven relationship with the central driver in response to a difference in rotational speed of the associated pair of side gears.
US08051743B2 Throttle control device for a hand held tool
A throttle control device for a hand held tool, such as a chain saw, is provided. The tool is provided with a forwardly extending wire for transmitting a motion from a throttle control lever turnably arranged about a first axis to a throttle valve. One end of the wire is secured to a wire arm that is turnably arranged about a second axis. The wire arm is provided with one or several teeth cooperating with the throttle control lever and the second axis is arranged behind the first axis.
US08051742B2 Steering wheel position adjustment device
A steering wheel position adjustment device includes a movable bracket having adjusting long holes on both sides in a width direction of the movable bracket, a fixed bracket, a lock shaft penetrating through both of the adjusting long holes to support the movable bracket to the fixed bracket, a collar member which is rotatably supported within the movable bracket by the lock shaft and is capable of moving along, with the lock shaft, in a longitudinal direction and stopper shock-absorbing materials, which are attached to both side sections in the longitudinal direction of the adjusting long holes within the movable bracket, and each of which is formed thereon with an abutment surface against which the collar member abuts.
US08051731B2 Spring reaction force converting apparatus
A spring reaction force converting apparatus has first and second members arranged to be in parallel with and opposed to each other and to be capable of being moved toward and apart from each other, a spring element arranged to be extended between the first and second members in parallel thereto, a link mechanism holding the spring element between the first and second members such that the spring element is capable of being expanded and contracted, the link mechanism being connected to the first and second members; a stopper member maintaining the spring element held by the link mechanism in a condition in which the spring element is compressed by a predetermined amount in an initial condition, and an arrangement thereof in which a reaction force of the spring element is converted to a different type of force transmitted to the first and second members through the link mechanism.
US08051729B2 Screw device and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention provides a screw device which takes a heavy load in one direction along the axis of the screw shaft and only a light load in the opposite direction, the screw device capable of providing ease of control of preloading.The screw device of the present invention has a screw shaft 1 with an outer surface having a ball rolling groove 1a for rolling balls 7 and a roller rolling groove 1b for rolling rollers 6 both spirally formed thereon; a ball nut 4 with an inner surface having a ball rolling groove 4a spirally formed thereon facing the ball rolling groove 1a of the screw shaft 1; a roller nut 5 with an inner surface having a roller rolling groove 5a spirally formed thereon facing the roller rolling groove 1b of the screw shaft 1; a plurality of balls 7 arranged between the screw shaft 1 and the ball nut 4; and a plurality of rollers 6 arranged between the screw shaft 1 and the roller nut 5. The ball nut 4 and the roller nut 5 are connected along an axis of the screw shaft 1.
US08051726B2 Liquid handling equipment
A pipette [1] is equipped with a jet [10] and handpiece [6]. A piston assembly, housed within the pipette [1], at one end has a seal [9] affixed to a rigid section [2] which extends to a flexible section [4]. At the junction of the rigid [2] and flexible [4] sections is an enlarged shoulder [7]. The flexible section [4] extends through the handpiece [6]. A movable sleeve [3] is positioned between the flexible section [4] of the piston rod assembly and the interior wall [11] of the pipette. At one end, the sleeve [3] passes over the shoulder [7] of the piston assembly and terminates in a constriction [8]. The other end of the sleeve [3] extends from the open end of the pipette [1] and terminates in a shoulder [5] of an external diameter greater than the bore diameter of the pipette [1].
US08051722B2 Apparatus for measuring volume- or mass-flow of a medium in a pipeline
An apparatus for measuring volume- or mass-flow of a medium in a pipeline. Included is a measuring tube, through which the medium flows in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube; a magnet system, which is embodied in such a manner, that it produces a magnetic field passing through the measuring tube essentially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube; at least one measuring electrode coupled with the medium, which is arranged in a bore in the wall of the measuring tube in a region lying essentially perpendicular to the magnetic field. The measuring electrode has an elongated electrode shaft having a first widened end region, which is so dimensioned, that its diameter larger is than the diameter of the bore in the wall of the measuring tube, in which the measuring electrode is placed; and a control/evaluation unit, which, on the basis of a measurement voltage induced in the at least one measuring electrode, delivers information concerning volume- or mass-flow of the medium in the measuring tube. In the opposing, second, end region of the electrode shaft of the measuring electrode, at least one radial recess or at least one radial protrusion is arranged. Furthermore, a binding-element is provided, which is so embodied, that it fixes the measuring electrode in the bore of the measuring tube in the axial direction by engaging with the at least one radial recess or protrusion.
US08051721B2 Shock sensor system and method
A surface-mountable shock sensor configuration having substantially eliminated field calibration, comprising: a housing assembly; and a shock sensor replaceably mountable within the housing assembly, wherein the shock sensor configuration yields a repeatable shock response for a plurality of shock sensors, in response to shocks applied to a surface upon which the sensor configuration is mounted.
US08051719B2 Pressure sensor device
A pressure-sensor device (1) comprises: —a pressure-sensitive component (9) having a body, defined in which is a blind cavity, and having a membrane portion (9a), operatively associated to which is a detection element (R); and —a connection structure (2), which has a duct in communication with the cavity of the pressure-sensitive component (9) and is to receive a fluid, a pressure of which is to be detected. The connection structure (2) comprises a supporting body (2a) of the pressure-sensitive component (9), which defines a respective passage (2b), and a compressible element (12, 18) that is designed to be in contact with the fluid and is configured for compensating possible variations of volume thereof. The compressible element (12, 18) is positioned at least in part within the cavity (11) of the pressure-sensitive component (9) and/or in a stretch of the passage (2b) of the supporting body (2a) that is close to the cavity (11) of the pressure-sensitive component (9).
US08051717B2 Method and apparatus for measuring flaw height in ultrasonic tests
The measurement of a flaw height in a thick welded portion of a stainless steel specimen, which is difficult to perform by the TOFD method, can be conducted with more ease, with higher accuracy and in a shorter time than in the case of using tip echo techniques. In addition, it is possible to reduce variations in measurement results among individual inspectors.An ultrasonic wave 21 is launched by a transmitting probe 1 into a specimen 20 in a direction oblique to a flaw 24 to generate diffracted waves at the tip 25 of the flaw 24, then a diffracted wave 22 propagating upward directly from the flaw 24 and a diffracted wave 23 propagating upwardly of the flaw 24 after once reflected off the back 27 are received by a receiving probe 2 disposed above the flaw 24, and the height of the tip of the flaw 24 from the back 27 is measured from the propagation time difference between the received diffracted waves.
US08051716B2 Method for testing a bearing component by means of ultrasound and optical inspection
A method for testing a bearing component in order to ensure that the bearing surface and a load-bearing region located underneath the bearing surface are in a perfect condition. A material testing depth containing the point of maximum mechanical load during operation is determined. In a first partial testing step, the bearing component is subjected to an ultrasound test by which the material region underneath the bearing surface is tested for defects by ultrasound, at least up to the material testing depth. In a second partial testing step, a full optical test of the bearing surface is carried out During the second partial testing step, the actual surface state of the bearing surface is compared with a nominal surface state. The bearing component is then only classified as faultless if the results of the two partial testing steps do not reveal any defects.
US08051714B2 Sensing instrument
In a sensing instrument using a quartz sensor on whose front surface an adsorption layer for adsorbing a substance to be sensed is formed and which changes in natural frequency by the adsorption of the substance to be sensed, the present invention has an object to quickly detect a trouble of the quartz sensor to prevent an operator from recognizing an incorrect measurement result. In the present invention, a level detecting circuit detecting a signal level of an oscillation output of an oscillator circuit is provided, and after the time for stabilization passes after the power-on time, a computer takes a level detection value therein to compare the signal level and a threshold value. Then, when the signal level is lower than the threshold value, the signal level is determined as abnormal and, for example, the abnormality notification is displayed on a display unit, whereby an operator is notified of the occurrence of the abnormality.
US08051713B2 Two-dimensional adaptive accelerometer based on dielectrophoresis
Conventional accelerometers are based on test masses that are suspended in some kind of spring damper system. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a two-dimensional adaptive accelerometer based on dielectrophoresis is provided, which measures an acceleration of a test mass freely floating in a medium by determining the movement of the test mass due to an accelerating force acting on the test mass. A non-uniform electric force field provides for a wide and adjustable dynamic range.
US08051707B2 Sensor arrangement
A sensor arrangement includes an optical sensor, a non-optical sensor, a sensor holder, and main and flexible interconnect devices. The sensor arrangement can be fixed to a vehicle window by the sensor holder. The sensor holder is in the form of a sensor housing having a sensor housing cover and a second housing body attached to one another. The sensor housing cover and the sensor housing body each have corresponding bracket sections which form a bracket connected to the sensor housing. The main interconnect device is positioned within the sensor housing. The optical sensor is connected to the main interconnect device. The flexible interconnect device is connected to the main interconnect device and extends from the main interconnect device to the bracket connected to the sensor housing. The non-optical sensor is connected to the flexible interconnect device within the bracket and is held by the bracket.
US08051706B2 Wide liquid temperature range fluids for pressure balancing in logging tools
An apparatus for performing a measurement in a borehole penetrating the earth, the apparatus including: a logging tool; an enclosed instrument cell disposed at the logging tool, the instrument cell being configured to perform the measurement; and a fill liquid disposed in the cell wherein the fill liquid remains in a liquid state and is nonflammable from 20° C. to 300° C.