最新美国发明专利第2011-12-06期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

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US08071196B2	Reusable wrapping material for a cylindrical cotton module A supply roll of durable plastic wrapping material for use with a wrapping mechanism for wrapping cylindrical cotton modules formed in a module-forming chamber of a cotton harvester is made in lengths connected in end-to-end relationship with Velcro® hook and loop connections provided at opposite ends of each length and having sufficient holding strength for the leading length to remain connected to the following length during the wrapping process, but for permitting the leading length to separate from the following length when the supply roll is subjected to a braking force. Other Velcro® hook and loop connections are provided on the lengths of material for securing them about the module with their placement being such to permit modules from 5′ to 7.5′ in diameter to be wrapped using no more than two wraps of material. The lengths of wrapping material may be mechanically stripped from the modules at the gin and cleaned and mechanically reattached in end-to-end relationship and formed into rolls for reuse.
US08071183B2	Display apparatus A sealing glass of a low melting point phosphate glass composition contains 15 to 35% of BaO and Sb2O3 (in total) and the ratio by weight of BaO to Sb2O3 or Sb2O3 to BaO is 0.3 or less. Particularly the transition metal is vanadium and the glass contains V2O5 of 45 to 60 wt % as vanadium oxide and P2O5 of 15 to 30 wt % as phosphorus oxide. The bonding material is a mixture of a filler and a vanadate-phosphate glass that contains V2O5 of 45 to 60%, P2O5 of 20 to 30%, BaO of 5 to 15%, TeO2 of 0 to 10%, Sb2O3 of 5 to 10%, and WO3 of 0 to 5%. The particle size of the filler is in the range of 1 to 150 μm and the ratio of filler is 80% by volume or less of the adhesive glass.
US08071181B2	Metal nanoparticle and use thereof for inducing chirality in liquid crystal phases The invention provides a metal nanoparticle comprising a metal and a chiral and/or thiolate group bonded to the metal. The monolayer-protected metal nanoparticle may be used as a chiral dopant in a liquid crystal. Accordingly, the invention also provides a colloidal suspension or dispersion comprising a metal nanoparticle comprising a metal and a chiral and/or thiolate group bonded to the metal, and a liquid crystal.
US08071179B2	Methods for infusing one or more materials into nano-voids if nanoporous or nanostructured materials A method of forming composite nanostructures using one or more nanomaterials. The method provides a nanostructure material having a surface region and one or more nano void regions within a first thickness in the surface region. The method subjects the surface region of the nanostructure material with a fluid. An external energy is applied to the fluid and/or the nanostructure material to drive in a portion of the fluid into one or more of the void regions and cause the one or more nano void regions to be substantially filled with the fluid and free from air gaps.
US08071174B2	Conductive elastomer and method of applying a conductive coating to elastomeric substrate A method for forming a conductive elastomer by applying or spray coating a conductive paste onto an elastomeric substrate using a reactive top coat to thin the conductive paste prior to spraying onto the substrate. The use of a reactive topcoat to thin the conductive paste avoids the need for hazardous volatile organic components as solvents to thin the conduct paste and improves the bonding of the conductive paste to the elastomeric substrate once the spray coating is cured.
US08071173B1	Methods of fabricating a polycrystalline diamond compact including a pre-sintered polycrystalline diamond table having a thermally-stable region In an embodiment, a method of fabricating a polycrystalline diamond compact includes forming an assembly including an at least partially leached polycrystalline diamond table that includes a plurality of interstitial regions therein and a surface; at least one silicon-containing layer positioned adjacent to the surface of the at least partially leached polycrystalline diamond table; and a substrate positioned at least proximate to the at least partially leached polycrystalline diamond table. The method further includes subjecting the assembly to a high-pressure/high-temperature process; at least partially infiltrating the at least partially leached polycrystalline diamond table with the at least one silicon-containing layer, in response to the high-pressure/high-temperature process, to form an at least partially infiltrated polycrystalline diamond table that bonds to the substrate; and exposing the at least partially infiltrated polycrystalline diamond table to an acid such that at least a thermal stability thereof is enhanced.
US08071172B2	Process for manufacturing devices carrying at least one active material by deposition of a low-melting alloy A process is provided for manufacturing devices that carry an active material. The process involves the continuous deposition of a strip of low-melting alloy in the liquid state on a ribbon of a metal net or a micro-perforated and stretched sheet metal, which surface has been pre-treated, for example by means of deoxidation. The ribbon is preferably prepared for subsequent cutting into individual components with active material. The deposition can occur by immersion into laminar wave or into a constant jet, by spraying of small drops or by liquid dispensation.
US08071171B1	Methods for creating spatially controlled composite materials Methods and systems for controlling a three(3)-dimensional distribution of structural reinforcement elements in a polymer-matrix composite. One embodiment of the invention provides a method that includes adding and curing a shape memory polymer in a plurality of flexible preforms attached with each other after preforming each of the flexible preforms to form a spatially controlled preform and variable stiffness material composite laminate. Here, in this embodiment, at least one of the preforms includes a flexible support formed from a patterned supporting material on a first surface of a stiff-structural sheet and the stiff-structural sheet that has been patterned on the support.
US08071161B2	DLI-MOCVD process for making electrodes for electrochemical reactors A method for fabricating an electrode for electrochemical reactor is provided, wherein the electrode includes a porous carbon diffusion layer and a catalyst layer. The method includes a step of depositing the catalyst layer on the diffusion layer by a DLI-MOCVD process.
US08071155B2	Medical devices and methods of making the same Medical devices, such as stents, and methods of making the devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method includes diffusing a first element into a first portion of the medical device. The first element includes carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, or combinations thereof. The first portion includes a refractory material.
US08071154B2	Ice confection An ice confection is provided comprising from 11 to 30% (by weight of the confection) of glucose syrup solids having a dextrose equivalent (DE) of less than 20, and from 3 to 16 wt % low molecular weight sweeteners. A process for producing the ice confection is also provided.
US08071151B2	Dual deposit stencil assembly A dual deposit stencil apparatus for discharging filler materials onto parallel lanes of base cakes comprises a stencil tube having two inlet openings, one communicating with a source of first filler material, and the other communicating with a source of second filler material. The stencil tube has four discharge openings therein. A stencil carried on the stencil tube has pairs of openings therein for receiving two filler materials. Provided in the stencil tube are a first shutoff valve and a second shutoff valve. First and second actuating mechanisms control the shut off valves and are coordinated to simultaneously provide first and second filler material to each pair of openings in the stencil. A wire mechanism cooperates with the stencil for simultaneously removing the first and second filler materials from each pair of openings.
US08071145B2	Controlled glycemic response sweetened cereal product The present invention provides a food product comprising: a formed reduced glycemic response cereal component; and a non-sticky reduced glycemic response sweetener coating over the formed cereal component, the sweetener coating comprising: a first sticky layer comprising at least about 30% fructose (of the total sweetener coating); a second less sticky layer having a DE value of about 60 or less and comprising up to about 17% fructose and at least about 1% non-fructose carbohydrates (of the total sweetener coating); and third layer comprising crystalline fructose. The present invention also provides a process for forming the sweetener coating over the formed cereal component comprising the following steps: (a) providing a formed cereal component having thereon a first sticky layer comprising fructose; (b) forming over the first sticky layer a less stick second layer comprising non-fructose carbohydrates and optionally fructose; and (c) applying crystalline fructose over the second layer.
US08071143B2	Methods for the treatment or prevention of diabetes mellitus and other metabolic imbalances The invention relates to methods for treatment and prevention of a metabolic imbalance, including diabetes mellitus and other related diseases or disorders, using an extract from a fruit of genus Elaeis.
US08071141B2	Compositions for preventing or ameliorating multiple risk factor syndromes A composition for preventing or ameliorating multiple risk factor syndrome involving visceral fat-type obesity, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipemia and hypertension, which comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of a licorice hydrophobic extract, a turmeric extract, a clove extract, and a cinnamon extract.
US08071138B2	Product and composition for alleviating post-menstrual symptoms The current invention relates to a natural composition for topical application to skin to alleviate post-menstrual symptoms of cramping, backache, and breast tenderness; and for other aches and pains including Rheumatic, muscular and articular pains; and local treatment such as tendinitises, tennis elbow, benign distorsions, arthritis, osteoarthritis, neuralgia, sciatic nerve, lumbago, back pains, migraine, stiff neck, and insect bites. In one embodiment, the composition of the cream or lotion includes active natural ingredients of Carapa procera and Calotropis procera with shea butter and soy oil. In one embodiment the composition includes, by weight percent, 30% to 80% Butyrospermum parkii (Shea butter); 10% to 30% Glycine poja (soy); 10% to 30% Carapa procera; 3% to 10% Calotropis procera; and 3% to 10% Menthol.
US08071135B2	Placental tissue compositions The present invention encompasses compositions, including solutions, gels, and pastes, manufactured from amniotic membrane, umbilical cord membrane, or both. The present invention also encompasses methods of making such compositions, and methods of using the compositions to treat conditions of the eye.
US08071134B2	Thyroid hormone analogs and methods of use Disclosed are methods of treating subjects having conditions related to angiogenesis including administering an effective amount of a polymeric form of thyroid hormone, or an antagonist thereof, to promote or inhibit angiogenesis in the subject. Compositions of the polymeric forms of thyroid hormone, or thyroid hormone analogs, are also disclosed.
US08071131B2	Mineralizing composite materials for restoring teeth Compositions and methods useful in restorative dentistry are disclosed. Compositions of the present invention include a peptide, and a polymer matrix. The peptide is one capable of reacting with a source of mineralizing ions to initiate deposition of hydroxyapatite crystals within the polymer matrix. Compositions of the present invention are uniquely capable of sealing a junction between a dental restorative material and adjacent native tooth tissue.
US08071127B2	Dual action, inhaled formulations providing both an immediate and sustained release profile Methods for formulating immediate and sustained release anti-infectives and delivery of such for treatment of respiratory tract infections and other medical conditions, and devices and formulations used in connection with such are described.
US08071124B2	Methods of using expandable foam-like biomaterials Liquid, injectable, aqueous solutions are transformed in situ to an expandable foam-like, space filling, and adherent biomaterial. Preferably, the foam-like biomaterial is the reaction product of a two-part liquid system to achieve the in situ formation thereof. The liquid system is generally comprised of a protein solution and a cross linker solution which may either be premixed and then applied to a site in need of the biomaterial, or simultaneously mixed and delivered through an in-line mixing/dispensing tip directly to the site. In especially preferred embodiments, an expandable foam-like biomaterial includes the reaction product of human or animal-derived protein material and a di- or polyaldehyde in the presence of a bicarbonate and an acidic titrant amounts sufficient to impart a cellular foam structure to the material.
US08071123B2	Process for producing edible orally administered agent of laminate film form and compression bonding apparatus Two resin films each provided with an orally administrable edible agent layer are joined so that administrable agent layers face each other, drawn into a nip between a pair of press rolls, pressurized at back surfaces to bond the administrable agent layers together, and conveyed in a direction substantially conforming to a tangential direction at a pressurization zone of the press rolls. A delamination roll disposed in the conveying direction is used to draw only one of the two resin films sandwiching the bonded plural administrable agent layers in a direction different from the conveying direction, while continuously conveying the other resin film retaining the plural administrable agent layers in the conveying direction. This allows only one of the joined two resin films to be delaminated. The obtained pressure bonded product, that is, an orally administrable edible agent of laminate film form can be punched out into predetermined shapes.
US08071116B2	Combination product for controlling parasites on animals The invention relates to novel compositions for controlling parasites on animals, comprising an N-arylpyrazole and also a pyrethroid in a formulation comprising aliphatic cyclic carbonates and aliphatic cyclic or acyclic polyethers.
US08071115B2	Cosmetics Cosmetics containing an active component comprising lactic acid bacteria fermented rice obtained by fermenting rice with lactic acid bacteria; a skin brightening and caring agent comprising lactic acid bacteria fermented rice obtained by fermenting rice with lactic acid bacteria; and an emulsifier comprising as the main component lactic acid bacteria fermented rice obtained by fermenting rice with lactic acid bacteria substantially in the absence of sodium chloride. Thus, cosmetics can be obtained, which are excellent in emulsion stability and biological safety, have a good feeling when using and after using and further have a total beautifying effect of cosmetic treatment including an improving effect on hair texture, and brightening and caring effects on the skin.
US08071113B2	Live, oral vaccine for protection against Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 The invention relates to Salmonella typhi Ty21a comprising core-linked Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 O-specific polysaccharide (O-Ps) and DNA encoding O antigen biosynthesis, said DNA selected from the group consisting of: a) the DNA sequence set out in any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2 and species homologs thereof; b) DNA encoding Shigella dysenteriae serotype 1 polypeptides encoded by any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1 and 2, and species homologs thereof; and c) DNA encoding a O antigen biosynthesis gene product that hybridizes under moderately stringent conditions to the DNA of (a) or (b); and related sequences, compositions of matter, vaccines, methods of using, and methods of making.
US08071108B2	Pestivirus mutant for use in a vaccine The present invention comprises new pestivirus mutants, characterized in that the mutants are based on a cp strain of the virus wherein part of the gene sequence encoding the Npro region is deleted, except that the deleted part does not encompass the coding sequence for the N-terminal twelve amino acids of the Npro protein. Preferably the pestivirus is the Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV). It was found that a mutant according to the invention is a safe and efficient vaccine candidate.
US08071107B2	Nucleic acids encoding modified human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) group M consensus envelope glycoproteins The present invention relates, in general, to an immunogen and, in particular, to an immunogen for inducing antibodies that neutralizes a wide spectrum of HIV primary isolates and/or to an immunogen that induces a T cell immune response. The invention also relates to a method of inducing anti-HIV antibodies, and/or to a method of inducing a T cell immune response, using such an immunogen. The invention further relates to nucleic acid sequences encoding the present immunogens.
US08071106B2	Topical formulation containing latex of fraction thereof, and cosmetic treatment method The present invention refers to a topical formulation containing natural latex or fraction thereof, for topical application, aiming to provide skin regeneration. It particularly refers to a formulation comprising latex from plants of the families Euphorbiaceae, such as Hevea brasiliensis, Apocinaceae, such as guava and sorb, Compositae such as guayule, Caricaceae such as papaya, or one of its fractions, whose topical application provides the skin with regeneration benefits, such as whitening or elimination of senile spots, increase in turgor, improved texture, shine and resilience.
US08071104B2	Neovascular-targeted immunoconjugates Immunoconjugates for treating diseases associated with neovascularization such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, the exudative form of macular degeneration, and atherosclerosis are described. The immunoconjugates typically consist of the Fc region of a human IgG1 immunoglobulin including the hinge, or other effector domain or domains that can elicit, when administered to a patient, a cytolytic immune response or cytotoxic effect against a targeted cell. The effector domain is conjugated to a targeting domain which comprises a factor VII mutant that binds with high affinity and specificity to tissue factor but does not initiate blood clotting such as factor VII having a substitution of alanine for lysine-341 or of alanine for serine-344.
US08071103B2	Pharmaceutical composition comprising a human GLP-1 mimetibody The present invention relates to at least one improved human GLP-1 mimetibody or specified portion or variant, including isolated nucleic acids that encode at least one GLP-1 mimetibody or specified portion or variant, GLP-1 mimetibody or specified portion or variants, vectors, host cells, transgenic animals or plants, and methods of making and using thereof, including therapeutic compositions, methods and devices.
US08071102B1	Methods to clear meningitis causing agents using antibodies to peptides representing epitopic sites for bacterial and viral meningitis causing agents Novel vaccines include polypeptides that comprise regions corresponding to a chemokine and a hapten. The hapten can be an amino acid sequence corresponding to the Meningitis Related Homologous Antigenic Sequences (MRHAS) of bacterial and viral agents known to cause meningitis. Protective immunity in a host susceptible to meningitis can be induced by inoculating the host with immunogenic amount of such a vaccine.
US08071101B2	Antibody therapy for treatment of diseases associated with gluten intolerance The present invention includes a pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treating diseases associated with gluten intolerance in a patient, comprising: administering to the patient an effective amount of an antibody having specific activity against gluten or gluten-derived peptides. Such diseases include, for example, celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis.
US08071098B2	Method of preventing cerebral vasospasm with anti-HMGB1 antibody An objective of the present invention is to provide a cerebral vasospasm inhibitor which is effective on cerebral vasospasm occurring after subarachnoid hemorrhage and has few side-effects. The cerebral vasospasm inhibitor of the invention is characterized in containing an anti-HMGB1 monoclonal antibody as an active ingredient.
US08071097B2	Apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies The present application relates to apoptotic anti-IgE antibodies, nucleic acid encoding the same, therapeutic compositions thereof, and their use in the treatment of IgE-mediated disorders.
US08071096B2	Anti-C5aR antibodies and uses thereof The present invention relates to antibodies which bind to C5aR and which are useful in diagnostic and therapeutic methods. The antibodies of the present invention are reactive with an extracellular loop of C5aR other than the N-terminal domain and are capable of substantially reducing or inhibiting the binding of C5a to C5aR and functional consequences of neutrophil chemoattractant receptor activation.
US08071095B2	Immunosuppressive polypeptides and nucleic acids The invention provides immunosuppressive polypeptides and nucleic acids encoding such polypeptides. In one aspect, the invention provides mutant CTLA-4 polypeptides and nucleic acids encoding mutant CTLA-4 polypeptides. Compositions and methods for utilizing such polypeptides and nucleic acids are also provided.
US08071094B2	Anti-idiotypic antibody neutralizing the inhibitor activity of a factor VIII inhibitor antibody The present invention is related to a monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody directed against a Factor VIII inhibitor antibody binding to the domain A2 of Factor VIII, and to a cell line producing this monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody, to the use of this monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody as drug, and more particularly, to its use for the manufacturing of a drug to be used for the treatment of haemophilia A.
US08071092B1	Methods of inhibiting B lymphocytes using antibodies to Neutrokine-alpha The present invention relates to a novel Neutrokine-alpha, and a splice variant thereof designated Neutrokine-alphaSV, polynucleotides and polypeptides which are members of the TNF family. In particular, isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided encoding the human Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV polypeptides, including soluble forms of the extracellular domain. Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of Neutrokine-alpha and/or Neutrokine-alphaSV activity. Also provided are diagnostic methods for detecting immune system-related disorders and therapeutic methods for treating immune system-related disorders.
US08071090B2	Stabilized thrombin compositions Stabilized thrombin compositions, processes for preparing them, and kits comprising them are disclosed. The compositions comprise thrombin, a bacteriostatically effective amount of benzyl alcohol or chlorobutanol, and 0.10%-5.0% (w/v) sucrose in aqueous solution. The compositions are stable when stored at 2° C.-8° C. for four weeks or more.
US08071084B2	Vaccine for protection against Shigella sonnei disease Compositions and methods for protecting a susceptible host against an infection of Shigella sonnei are disclosed. Such compositions and methods are useful for protecting the host against bacillary dysentery and shigellosis.
US08071082B2	End-modified poly(beta-amino esters) and uses thereof Poly(beta-amino esters) are end-modified to form materials useful in the medical as well as non-medical field. An amine-terminated poly(beta-amino ester) is reacted with an electrophile, or an acrylate-terminated poly(beta-amino ester) is reacted with a nucleophile. The inventive end-modified polymers may be used in any field where polymers have been found useful including the drug delivery arts. The end-modified polymers are particularly useful in delivery nucleic acids such as DNA or RNA. The invention also provides compositions including the inventive end-modified polymers, methods of preparing the inventive polymers, and method of using the inventive polymers.
US08071079B2	Personal care applications of emulsions containing elastomeric silanes and siloxanes with nitrogen atoms Oil-in-water (O/W) and water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions and microemulsions containing elastomeric silanes or siloxanes preferably having quaternary ammonium groups are generally made by reacting organic quaternary ammonium compounds having epoxide groups or halohydrin groups, with silanes or siloxanes having amino groups. The reaction is carried out in an aqueous polar phase containing a crosslinking agent and surfactant. The emulsions and microemulsions are especially useful for treating hair, skin, or the underarm.
US08071078B2	Encapsulated colorants for natural skin appearance The present invention relates to personal care or cosmetic compositions that contain a blend of at least 2 microencapsulated colorants that produces a natural, textured tone effect. A method for cosmetic treatment comprises application of such personal care or cosmetic compositions onto at least a part of the body.
US08071073B2	Compositions comprising azelastine and methods of use thereof The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising azelastine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof including azelastine hydrochloride, and optionally one or more additional active agents. Preferred such compositions further comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients that reduce the amount of post-nasal drip, and/or that minimize or mask the unpleasant bitter taste associated with post-nasal drip, of the compositions into the oral cavity, upon intranasal or ocular administration of the compositions. Especially effective excipients used in the compositions of the present invention are hypromellose as a viscosity modifier and sucralose as a taste-masking agent. The invention also provides methods of treating or preventing certain disorders, or symptomatic relief therefrom, by administering the compositions of the invention to a patient, e.g., for the symptomatic relief of allergic rhinitis, non-allergic vasomotor rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, as well as other disorders. The compositions and methods of the present invention provide significant value in terms of patient acceptability, convenience, and compliance.
US08071072B2	Cytotoxicity mediation of cells evidencing surface expression of CD44 This invention relates to the staging, diagnosis and treatment of cancerous diseases (both primary tumors and tumor metastases), particularly to the mediation of cytotoxicity of tumor cells; and most particularly to the use of cancerous disease modifying antibodies (CDMAB), optionally in combination with one or more CDMAB/chemotherapeutic agents, as a means for initiating the cytotoxic response. The invention further relates to binding assays, which utilize the CDMAB of the instant invention. The anti-cancer antibodies can be conjugated to toxins, enzymes, radioactive compounds, cytokines, interferons, target or reporter moieties and hematogenous cells.
US08071069B2	Purification of titania The invention relates to a process for the purification of titania by treating the titania with an aqueous solution having one or more ammonium compounds at elevated temperatures, separating the titania from the aqueous solution, drying the titania and, optionally, calcining the dried titania. More especially the invention relates to the removal of sulphur (mainly present in the form of sulphate compounds) from the titania. The titania purified according to the above process is especially suitable for use as a catalyst carrier.
US08071063B2	Separation of hydrogen from hydrocarbons utilizing zeolitic imidazolate framework materials The present invention relates to the selective separation of hydrogen (“H2”) hydrocarbons in streams containing both hydrogen and hydrocarbons (e.g. methane, ethylene, ethane, propylene, propane, etc.) utilizing a zeolitic imidazolate framework (“ZIF”) material. Preferably, the stream to be separated is fed to the present process in a substantially gaseous phase. In preferred embodiments, the current invention is utilized in either a pressure swing adsorption process, a temperature swing adsorption process, or a membrane separations process to separate hydrogen from hydrocarbons present in hydrogen production streams or petrochemical/petroleum refining product streams and intermediate streams.
US08071062B2	High temperature catalytic process to reduce emissions of carbon monoxide A method for oxidizing an amount of CO in a CO-containing gas stream, e.g., a combustion stream from fuel combustion, is provided. The method comprises exposing the CO-containing gas stream to a catalytic coating at reaction conditions, including at least 8 vol. % O2 and a temperature of at least 600° C. At these reaction conditions, the method comprises generating gaseous intermediate oxidizing species at the catalytic coating for oxidation of the carbon monoxide within the CO-containing gas stream as a homogeneous reaction to improve CO removal efficiency.
US08071061B2	Catalyst for an exhaust gas aftertreatment system for internal combustion engines The invention relates to a device for the catalytic treatment of exhaust gases of motor vehicles which comprises a catalyst substrate designed as a hollow cylinder, an inlet-side and an outlet-side gas baffle and an outer wall, wherein the gas baffles enclose the catalyst substrate and the outlet-side gas baffle and the catalyst substrate form a first cavity into which an exhaust-gas stream can be fed, passing through the catalyst substrate and entering a second cavity which is surrounded by outer wall, gas baffles and catalyst substrate, wherein the outlet-side gas baffle has gas vents, and wherein the recessed part of the outlet-side gas baffle is beaded, with the result that the catalyst substrate is fixed. The invention also relates to a process for the production of the device according to the invention and its use, plus a method for cleaning exhaust gases of motor vehicles.
US08071059B2	Chemical reactor A chemical reactor for catalytic reactions, comprises a substantially cylindrical shell (2) closed at the opposite ends by respective covers (3 and 4), at least one reaction zone (7, 8) in which a respective catalytic bed (9, 10) and a plurality of heat exchangers (25) placed in said at least one reaction zone (7, 8) are supported.
US08071058B2	Apparatus for transporting biological samples A container assembly for storing, treating, transporting and stabilizing a biological sample includes a container, a cap and a sample holder removably received in the container. The sample holder can be a platform-like device dimensioned to be supported on a ledge formed in the side wall of the container. The sample holder includes a central cavity for receiving the sample and immersing the sample in the stabilizing agent in the container. In another embodiment, the sample holder has a closure member for closing the open top end of the cavity. The container includes a liquid reagent in an amount sufficient to treat the biological sample. The biological sample is retained in a predetermined containment area of the container to maintain the biological sample immersed in the reagent without regard to the orientation of the container.
US08071056B2	Thermal microvalves The movement and mixing of microdroplets through microchannels is described employing silicon-based microscale devices, comprising microdroplet transport channels, reaction regions, electrophoresis modules, and radiation detectors. The discrete droplets are differentially heated and propelled through etched channels. Electronic components are fabricated on the same substrate material, allowing sensors and controlling circuitry to be incorporated in the same device.
US08071053B2	Dispensing apparatus A dispensing apparatus includes a dispensing arm, a driving motor, and a transmitting/buffering unit. The dispensing arm is rotatable and conveys a fluid drawn at a predetermined drawing position to a predetermined discharge position. The driving motor rotates the dispensing arm. The transmitting/buffering unit includes a crank shaft that rotates through a driving force of the driving motor and a crank rod that is coupled with the crank shaft and rotates with a rotation of the crank shaft thereby rotating the dispensing arm.
US08071048B2	Test element with nanofibers The invention concerns test elements, in particular diagnostic test elements, for determining the presence or concentration of biological, medical or biologically or medically effective substances including nucleic acids, proteins, viruses, microorganisms and cells, characterized in that these test elements contain nanofibers.
US08071045B2	Reformer A reformer includes first and second reforming units which are stacked together. A first hole is formed at the center of a first receiver member of the first reforming unit, and a plurality of holes are formed in a peripheral portion of a second receiver member of the second reforming unit. In the structure, a reforming channel having a serpentine pattern going through the first and second holes is formed. In each of the first and second receiver members, a single layer of catalyst pellets is provided. Both end surfaces of the catalyst pellets substantially contact the first and second receiver members.
US08071040B2	Low shear mounting mat for pollution control devices A mounting mat for an exhaust gas treatment device including high temperature resistant ceramic fibers containing alumina and/or high temperature resistant biosoluble inorganic fibers, organic binder which at least partially liquefies at elevated temperature prior to binder burnout, colloidal inorganic oxide and optionally intumescent material. The exhaust gas treatment device includes a housing, a fragile catalyst support structure resiliently mounted within the housing, and the mounting mat disposed in a gap between the housing and the fragile catalyst support structure.
US08071039B2	Multilayer mounting mats and pollution control devices containing same A multilayer mat (10) for mounting a pollution control element (40) in a pollution control device (60). The mat comprises at least one non-intumescent layer comprising ceramic fibers and having a width defined by opposite lateral edges, and at least one intumescent layer comprising an intumescent material and having a width defined by opposite lateral edges. The width of the intumescent layer is less than the width of the non-intumescent layer. The intumescent layer can have an exposed major surface.
US08071022B2	Decontamination method and system implementing it The method of microbiological decontamination of a machine comprising an enclosure for treating a support and a conveyor comprising a shuttle, comprises the steps of obtaining a container adapted to be received on the shuttle and to diffuse biocidal agent in the enclosure, of placing the container on the shuttle, of moving the shuttle within the enclosure, and of evacuating the agent. The microbiological analysis system comprises a container, a microbiological analysis machine comprising at least two stations for treatment of the support, a conveyor comprising a shuttle adapted to receive and to move the support, the container being adapted to be received on the shuttle, as well as means for evacuating the biocidal agent.
US08071020B2	High strength Cr-Ni alloy material and seamless pipe for oil well A high strength Cr—Ni alloy material excellent in hot workability and stress corrosion cracking resistance, and seamless pipe for oil well application which consists of, by mass percent, C: 0.05% or less, Si: 0.05 to 1.0%, Mn: 0.01% or more and less than 3.0%, P: 0.05% or less, S: 0.005% or less, Cu: 0.01 to 4%, Ni: 25% or more and less than 35%, Cr: 20 to 30%, Mo: 0.01% or more and less than 4.0%, N: 0.10 to 0.30%, Al: 0.03 to 0.30%, O (oxygen): 0.01% or less, and REM (rare earth metal): 0.01 to 0.20% with the balance being Fe and impurities, and also satisfies the conditions in the following formula (1). N×P/REM≦0.40 formula (1) where P, N, and REM in the formula (1) respectively denote the contents (mass %) of P, N, and REM. The high strength Cr—Ni alloy material may further contain one or more types of W, Ti, Nb, Zr, V, Ca, and Mg, instead of part of Fe.
US08071018B2	High carbon hot-rolled steel sheet A high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet which is a hot-rolled spheroidizing annealed material, including 0.2 to 0.7% C, 2% or less Si, 2% or less Mn, 0.03% or less P, 0.03% or less S, 0.08% or less Sol.Al., and 0.01% or less N, by mass, which contains carbide having a particle size of smaller than 0.5 μm in a content of 15% or less by volume to the total amount of carbide, and the difference between the maximum hardness Hv max and the minimum hardness Hv min, ΔHv (=Hv max−Hv min), in the sheet thickness direction being 10 or smaller.
US08071012B2	Temperature measuring device A temperature measuring device for molten metal includes a porous plug with a first end and an opposed second end, an outer protective sheath with a closed end, an inner protective tube with a closed end, and a thermocouple arranged within an interior of the inner protective tube. The outer protective sheath extends away from the first end of the plug and the inner protective tube is arranged within an interior of the outer protective sheath. The porous plug comprises a substantially refractory material and the outer protective sheath consists essentially of substantially refractory metal oxide and graphite. A junction of the thermocouple is proximate to the closed end of the inner protective tube.
US08071011B2	Method of introduction of filling materials in liquid form into porous bodies Method for introduction of filling materials into porous bodies in which the filling materials in liquid form are brought into contact with the porous bodies and are distributed from at least one site within the porous body in this porous body.
US08071009B2	Sterile de-molding apparatus and method An apparatus and method are provided for molding sterile parts. The apparatus has a first mold portion and a second mold portion. At least one of the first and second mold portions defines a mold cavity configured to receive a molten plastic and form therefrom at least one molded part At least one of the first and second mold portions is movable relative to the other between (i) a closed position for sealing the mold cavity or cavities and molding at least one part therein, and (ii) an open position defining a fluid passageway between the first and second mold portions and permitting the passage of a fluid sterilant therein. A fluid source that contains or otherwise generates a fluid sterilant, such as vaporized hydrogen peroxide, is connectable in fluid communication with the fluid passageway for introducing the sterilant into the fluid passageway with at least one of the first and second mold portions in the open position, and in turn contacting with the sterilant the surfaces of the first and second mold portions forming the fluid passageway and located adjacent to the at least one mold cavity, but not contacting an interior surface of a molded part within the mold cavity, to sterilize the exposed mold surfaces and thereby prevent contamination of the molded part.
US08071003B2	Method of manufacturing a vibration damping bushing A method of manufacturing a vibration damping bushing wherein after setting a main shaft member on a lower mold, an medial sleeve is set to be disposed about the main shaft member, and a plurality of sections are moved forward in a centripetal direction to form an intermediate mold together, and then an upper mold is superposed onto the intermediate mold to form a mold cavity therein. At least one positioning protrusion is formed on a cavity defining face, being discontinuous in a circumferential direction, while being located at either semi-circumference of the cavity defining face with any diametric line interposed therebetween. The medial sleeve is set in position in an axis-perpendicular direction within the mold cavity by holding the positioning protrusions in contact against an outer peripheral face of the medial sleeve. A vibration damping bushing manufactured by this method is also disclosed.
US08071002B2	Vertical trim panel with integrated stitching A method of forming a panel is disclosed. The method comprises forming a flexible skin; coupling a compressible material to the skin; providing a stitching to the skin and compressible material combination; then positioning the skin and compressible material in a mold; and forming a rigid substrate around the skin and compressible material and a portion of the stitching for providing a first soft region wherein the compressible material is disposed between the skin and the substrate so that a first soft region is defined by the compressible material.
US08071001B2	Method and device for manufacturing plungers for medical syringes, plungers obtained thereby, as well as syringe for medical purposes Method for manufacturing plungers for medical syringes, whereby such a plunger (3) consists of at least two parts, namely a longitudinal plunger body (4) made of plastic and a piston body (5) provided at the front end of the plunger body (4) which consists of a plastic which is softer than the plastic of the plunger body (4), characterised in that such a plunger (3), or at least a part (36) thereof, is formed by first manufacturing the piston body (5) and then the plunger body (4), or at least a part (37) of this plunger body (4), by means of injection moulding, whereby the plunger body (4), or the above-mentioned part (37) thereof, is injected against the piston body (5).
US08070999B2	Solution casting process A static and closed solution casting process comprises the following steps: dissolve a solute in a solvent to prepare a casting solution; place membrane-casting plate on bracket, and adjust the bracket to make the membrane-casting plate horizontal; pour the casting solution into membrane-casting plate such that the casting solution is uniformly spread out in the membrane-casting plate; arrange heating arrangement over the membrane-casting plate; arrange cooling side plate around the membrane-casting plate; arrange cooling bottom plate below the membrane-casting plate; supply cooling liquor to the connected interlayer of the cooling side plate and the cooling bottom plate; enclose the membrane-casting plate, the bracket, the heating arrangement, the cooling side plate and the cooling bottom plate inside an insulated case made by heat insulator; heat the casting solution in the membrane-casting plate by driving the heating arrangement to totally evaporate the solvent in the casting solution; and then continuously heat in order to enhance the crystallinity of the final membrane; stop heating; and remove the condensed solvent from the cooling bottom plate and peel the final membrane from the membrane-casting plate. This process is of simple technique, cheap equipment and low cost of membrane preparation, and the final membrane has the advantages such as high crystallinity and isotropic etc.
US08070992B2	Mold cleaning sheet and method of producing semiconductor devices using the same A cleaning sheet (29) is formed with a trough-hole (29a) at a portion corresponding to a cavity of a mold along with a slit (29b) or a flow cavity cut (29c) at every corner at an outer periphery of the through-hole (29a) and is placed between a first mold half and a second mold half of the mold to clean the inside of the mold, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the mold.
US08070991B2	Method of molding lens array An exemplary method for making a lens array having many lenses includes the follow steps. A light pervious substrate including a supporting surface is firstly provided. Secondly, a molten molding material is applied on the supporting surface. Thirdly, a pressing mold including many molding parts is provided, each molding part including a molding cavity for molding the lens. Fourthly, the pressing mold is pressed on the molten molding material. Fifthly, the molten molding material is half-cured, thereby forming a half-cured molding material. Sixthly, the half-cured molding material is pressed by the pressing mold. Seventhly, the half-cured molding material is fully cured to form each lens in each molding cavity. Finally, the pressing mold is removed from the light pervious substrate to form the lens array.
US08070987B2	Compositions of doped, co-doped and tri-doped semiconductor materials Semiconductor materials suitable for being used in radiation detectors are disclosed. A particular example of the semiconductor materials includes tellurium, cadmium, and zinc. Tellurium is in molar excess of cadmium and zinc. The example also includes aluminum having a concentration of about 10 to about 20,000 atomic parts per billion and erbium having a concentration of at least 10,000 atomic parts per billion.
US08070983B2	Luminescent material This invention relates to luminescent materials for ultraviolet light or visible light excitation containing lead and/or copper doped chemical compounds. The luminescent material is composed of one or more than one compounds of aluminate type, silicate type, antimonate type, germanate/or germanate-silicate type, and/or phosphate type. Accordingly, the present invention is a good possibility to substitute earth alkaline ions by lead and copper for a shifting of the emission bands to longer or shorter wave length, respectively. Luminescent compounds containing copper and/or lead with improved luminescent properties and also with improved stability against water, humidity as well as other polar solvents are provided. The present invention is to provide lead and/or copper doped luminescent compounds, which has high color temperature range about 2,000K to 8,000K or 10,000K and CRI over 90.
US08070979B2	Chemical method for soil improvement A method for providing soil improvement to a particulate surface soil including applying to and allowing to penetrate the associated surface soil a composition comprising a synthetic fluid and a binder and applying as a second surface a synthetic fluid, a binder, and synthetic fibers.
US08070972B2	Etching method and etching apparatus The present invention relates to an etching method for etching a film to form a concave portion therein with the use of a photoresist mask provided with an opening. In this method, there is determined, in advance, a first correlation between a parameter value and an opening dimension of the concave portion, as a process parameter for the etching process, when the etching process is conducted with the use of the mask provided with the opening of a reference opening dimension. In addition, there is determined, in advance, a second correlation between a variation in opening dimension of the mask and a variation in opening dimension of the concave portion. When conducting the etching process, an actual opening dimension of the mask is measured. A target parameter value of the process parameter for achieving a target opening dimension of the concave portion is determined, based on a difference between the actual opening dimension of the mask and the reference opening dimension thereof, the target opening dimension of the concave portion to be formed, and the first and second correlations.
US08070968B2	Ultraviolet-curable resin material for pattern transfer and magnetic recording medium manufacturing method using the same According to one embodiment, this invention uses an ultraviolet-curable resin material for pattern transfer containing 80 to 95 wt % of isobornyl acrylate, 1 to 20 wt % of trifunctional acrylate, and 0.5 to 6 wt % of a polymerization initiator.
US08070967B2	Method for manufacturing patterned magnetic recording medium A method for manufacturing a patterned magnetic recording medium that allows processing only required sites with high precision, in a dry etching process during formation of an uneven pattern in an interlayer. The method includes forming sequentially, on a substrate, a soft magnetic layer, an etching stop layer, a seed layer, an interlayer, a hard mask layer and a resist; obtaining a resist pattern by patterning the resist; obtaining a patterned hard mask layer by etching the hard mask layer using the resist pattern as a mask; stripping the resist pattern; obtaining a patterned interlayer by etching the interlayer using the patterned hard mask layer as a mask; stripping the patterned hard mask layer; and forming a magnetic recording layer by forming a perpendicular orientation section on the patterned interlayer, and forming a random orientation section on the seed layer.
US08070964B2	Modified substrate and process for production thereof The present invention is characterized in that a base material comprises ester groups in the main chain and/or in the side chain(s), and comprises a polymer having hydrophobic groups. Particularly, the hydrophobic groups can be introduced by irradiating the base material with a radiation during the base material contacts an aqueous solution of a monohydric alcohol or an aqueous solution of an alcohol having not less than 2 hydroxyl groups, which is a monomer or a polymer, and which has one or more carbon atoms between the carbon atoms to each of which the hydroxyl group is bound in the monomer or in each monomer constituting the polymer.
US08070963B2	Method and system for backwashing a filter A method for purifying fluids and a sedimentation tank, the sedimentation tank includes: a perforated plate spaced from an upper and of the sedimentation tank dividing the sedimentation tank into an upper chamber and a lower chamber; an inlet adapted to inlet fluid into the tank; a first outlet, positioned above the perforated plate for outletting a clarified fraction of the fluid; a second outlet positioned at a bottom of the tank, for outletting a concentrated sludge fraction of the fluid; a pump; and a washing mechanism, positioned at least partially above the perforated plate; wherein the pump is adapted to provide a washing fluid to the washing mechanism when a level of fluid in the sedimentation tank is below a predefined level; and wherein the washing mechanism washes an upper surface of the perforated plate by the washing fluid.
US08070961B2	So-called water catalytic decarbonation appliances The invention aims at enabling, in a catalytic decarbonation apparatus, inert particles coated with calcium carbonate to be constantly and systematically extracted from the reactor, with no risk of clogging the discharge pipes. Therefor, said pipes (7′a, 7′b) have an inside diameter ranging between 40 and 60 mm and they have a downward incline up to their connection to an outside discharge conduit (8′), except, possibly, a horizontal portion starting from the orifice through which they emerge into the reactor (1′).
US08070960B2	Method of dewatering solids laden liquids utilizing a reusable filter element A method of dewatering a solids laden waste stream, whereby the slurry is pumped into a vertical filter retaining structure and the liquid is allowed to flow out through the pores of the filtration element while retaining the solids within the structure. After the solids have dewatered, doors or gates located at the bottom of the structure are opened and the solids drop out the bottom by gravity. The structure is elevated to allow a transport vehicle to be placed under the doors prior to dropping out the solids. One embodiment utilizes an open bottom, closed top filter bag that is closed off by the doors or sliding gates located at the bottom of the structure. Another embodiment disclosed would use rigid filter plates to retain the solids and drop out the accumulated solids by opening sliding gates at the bottom of the structure. The filter bag or plates is accessible from the side to allow either manual or automatic pressure washing of the filtration elements or filter bag after each dewatering cycle.
US08070959B2	Chalcogenide compounds with a clay-like cation-exchange capacity and methods of use Chalcogenide compounds with cation exchange capability and methods of using the compounds are described. Compounds of the general formula A2xMxSn3-xS6 are described wherein x is 0.1-0.95, A is Li+, Na+, K+ or Rb+ and M is Mn2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, Co2+ or Ni2+. Compounds of the general formula H2xMxSn3-xS6 are also described wherein x is 0.1-0.95 and M=Mn2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, Fe2+, Co2+ or Ni2+. The compounds can be layered compounds. The compounds are capable of intercalation of Cs+, Sr2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and/or Ag+ ions. A process involving contacting the compounds with a solution comprising one or more ions including Cs+, Sr2+, Hg2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, and/or Ag+ is also provided. The one or more ions can be removed from the solution by the compounds. A process comprising contacting compounds of the general formula A2xMxSn3-xS6 with a solution containing UO22+, Th4+ or Pu4+ ions is also described.
US08070957B2	Flash chromatography cartridge A low pressure liquid chromatographic cartridge is provided having a tubular polymer container adapted to receive a chromatographic packing material. The container has an outlet port located at a downstream end of the container and container threads formed on an upstream end of the container. A polymer cap having cap threads located on the cap threadingly engage the container threads. An inlet port is located on an upstream end of the cap. A resilient fluid tight seal is interposed between the polymer cap and container suitable for use in low pressure liquid chromatography. A locking tab on a skirt of the cap engages a recess on the container when the seal engages the cap and container to lock the cap in position relative to the container.
US08070955B2	Method and apparatus for generating fresh water An object is to provide a fresh water generating method that is capable of efficiently producing purified water, such as fresh water, from unpurified water, such as sea water. Provided is a fresh water generating method for generating fresh water by way of reverse osmosis membrane filtration, which includes mixing sea water with low salt concentration water having a salt concentration lower than sea water to produce mixed water, and subjecting the mixed water prepared by the mixing to reverse osmosis membrane filtration, thereby generating fresh water.
US08070954B2	Method and apparatus for desalinating sea water An object is to provide a fresh water generating method that is capable of efficiently producing purified water, such as fresh water, from unpurified water, such as sea water. Provided is a fresh water generating method for generating fresh water by way of reverse osmosis membrane filtration, which includes mixing sea water with low salt concentration water having a salt concentration lower than sea water to produce mixed water, and subjecting the mixed water prepared by the mixing to reverse osmosis membrane filtration, thereby generating fresh water.
US08070953B2	Method for desalinating sea water An object is to provide a fresh water generating method that is capable of efficiently producing purified water, such as fresh water, from unpurified water, such as sea water. Provided is a fresh water generating method for generating fresh water by way of reverse osmosis membrane filtration, which includes mixing sea water with low salt concentration water having a salt concentration lower than sea water to produce mixed water, and subjecting the mixed water prepared by the mixing to reverse osmosis membrane filtration, thereby generating fresh water.
US08070951B2	Method for removing contaminants from liquids using membrane filtration in combination with particle adsorption to reduce fouling Metal oxide particles heated while immersed in water in a closed container are combined with membrane filtration to remove contaminants from water. The use of the heated particles reduces fouling of the membrane typically encountered when membranes alone are used to remove contaminants from water.
US08070947B2	Permselective membrane module and method for manufacturing the same To provide a method for manufacturing a module having a selectively permeable membrane wherein the surface of the selectively permeable membrane thereof can be washed with good efficiency and further contaminants having been exfoliated from the surface of the membrane by a washing operation can be discharged from the inside of a housing with good efficiency; and the above module having a selectively permeable membrane. A module wherein a selectively permeable membrane is held in a housing and both ends of the above selectively permeable membrane are fixed, the both ends of the above selectively permeable membrane are fixed to an upper holder and an under holder connected by at least one washing tube, and then, the membrane is held in the housing; and a module having a selectively permeable membrane manufactured by the above manufacturing method.
US08070946B2	Underdrain for a filter system for filtering water or wastewater and a method of washing the filter system An apparatus for filtering water and/or wastewater including at least one underdrain lateral. The underdrain lateral is configured to receive a liquid during a filtration cycle and directs a washing fluid through a filter bed of one or more layers of filter media during a washing cycle. The filter can take any form including but not limited to an upflow clarifier, an upflow filter, a downflow clarifier, a downflow filter and a bi-flow filter. The filter media may be supported by one or more layers of gravel. Alternatively, a porous plate can be attached to the underdrain lateral in place of the gravel layers. The washing cycle can be a liquid only wash, a gas only wash, a combined liquid and gas wash or a combination of any of the aforementioned wash cycles. Preferably, the underdrain lateral includes a primary gas chamber and a secondary gas chamber where the secondary gas chamber serves to equalize pressure differences that may occur during the initial distribution due to velocity head changes and friction effects. Preferably, the underdrain lateral includes a plurality of chambers directing a washing fluid into the filter bed during a washing cycle where at least one of the plurality of chambers directs a liquid and a gas simultaneously into the filter bed and at least one other chamber of the plurality of chamber directs only one of a liquid and a gas into the filter bed at the same time as that the combination of liquid and gas is directed into the filter bed. Preferably, the height of evacuation openings formed in at least one wall common to a gas wash chamber and at least one adjacent chamber are varied to compensate for velocity head or friction loss.
US08070945B2	Filtration module including unitary filter cartridge-bowl construction A filtration module is provided which includes a manifold (100), a filtration cartridge (104) and a bowl (102) that houses the filter cartridge. The filtration cartridge and bowl are connected to each other to form a unitary construction. The filtration cartridge and bowl are in fluid communication with the manifold in a manner which prevents mixing of a fluid feed to the module and a permeate removed from the module.
US08070944B2	Groundwater radon reduction apparatus A groundwater radon reduction apparatus is provided. The groundwater radon reduction apparatus includes: a housing in which groundwater falls down; a rotating member installed in the housing and rotated by a falling force of the groundwater to form the groundwater into water drops; a plurality of power transmission members connected to both ends of the rotating member to transmit power, and receiving the rotating force of the rotating member; and a plurality of ventilation units coupled to one ends of the power transmission members inside the housing, respectively, and rotated together with the power transmission members by the rotation force of the rotating member to discharge radon gases within the water drops to the outside.
US08070943B2	Pump system for deep fryers using trans-fat-free cooking oil A pump for use in a filtration process for a deep fryer is disclosed. The pump includes a drive shaft linked to a motor or motor drive shaft. The drive shaft passes through a seal assembly before passing into the pump chamber. The seal includes an outer seal housing that accommodates a lip seal. The lip seal is fabricated from PTFE. A combination oil filtration and supply system for a deep fryer is also disclosed that includes a motor linked to the drive shaft. The drive shaft passes through a supply pump and a filter/return pump. The supply pump includes an inlet in communication with a fresh oil reservoir and an outlet in communication with the filter/return pump. The filter/return pump includes an inlet in each communication with an oil filtration system and an outlet in communication with the outlet of the supply pump and an inlet to an oil distribution network. The oil distribution network includes a plurality of outlets, each in communication with an inlet of a vat. Each vat each includes an outlet in communication with the oil filtration system. The supply pump further includes a bypass valve that closes the inlet to the supply pump when flow from the fresh oil reservoir is cut off by closing a fresh oil supply valve. The bypass valve permits continuous circulation of fresh oil in the supply pump chamber and around the seal to prolong the life of the seal.
US08070939B2	Process for measuring and adjusting halide in a reactor A process comprising: a) taking a sample from a continuous reactor process, b)measuring a content of a halide in the sample, and c) in response to the measured content of the halide, adjusting a flow of a halide containing additive comprising the halide to control the process. Also, an apparatus comprising: a) a reactor holding an ionic liquid catalyst and a reactant mixture, b) a means for measuring levels of a halide in an effluent from the reactor, and c) a control system that receives a signal in response to the measuring and communicates changes in an operating condition that influences the yield of a product in the reactant mixture.
US08070937B2	Systems, methods, and catalysts for producing a crude product Contact of a crude feed with one or more catalysts produces a total product that includes a crude product. The crude product is a liquid mixture at 25° C. and 0.101 MPa. One or more properties of the crude product may be changed by at least 10% relative to the respective properties of the crude feed. The one or more catalysts may include at least one catalyst having a median pore diameter of at least 230 Å. Methods for producing the catalyst having the median pore size diameter are described.
US08070933B2	Electrolytic microfinishing of metallic workpieces The invention is an electrolytic microfinishing process which utilizes a conductive tool as a cathode and a conductive workpiece as an anode both connected to a power supply. Electrolytic fluid is pumped between the tool and workpiece, creating a decomposition of the workpiece surface allowing the surface of the workpiece to be removed or wiped away by the interaction of the flowing electrolyte and rotation of the tool without generating any heat at a rate significantly faster than any other known machining process. The tool has no contact with the workpiece and accordingly, requires very low clamping loads to hold the workpiece in the spindle during the finishing operation. Due to the low clamping loads, the distortion of the workpiece is completely eliminated. Modulating the power supply during the work cycle allows the use of a single tool for both roughing and finishing as a continuous cycle to significantly provide surface finishes previously unobtainable.
US08070923B2	Structure for cathodic fingers of chlor-alkali diaphragm cells A structure of cathodic fingers for a chlor-alkali diaphragm cell with improved voltage and faradic efficiency is described, characterized in that a sheet provided with projections is inserted inside each finger. The interwoven wire mesh or the perforated sheet, forming each finger, is secured by a conductive connection, preferably by welding, to the top of each projection, thereby providing optimal uniformity of the electrical current distribution. The projections have a shape preferably equivalent to spherical caps, disposed in a quincuncial pattern. The internal volume of each finger is subdivided by the sheet provided with projections into two portions wherein both the free upward motion of hydrogen bubbles and the free longitudinal motion of the separated hydrogen take place towards the cell perimetrical chamber. Within the internal volume of each finger, which is only partially occupied by the projections, the natural recirculation of the solution constituted by the product caustic soda and the depleted sodium chloride also occurs, supported by the hydrogen bubbles.
US08070922B2	Monolithic supported oxygen generator An oxygen generator includes a monolithic body having first and second channels extending longitudinally therein. An electrode is operatively disposed in the first channels and a counter-electrode is operatively disposed in the second channels. The second channels are formed in the monolithic body so each second channel is electrically isolated from, yet adjacent to a first channel, resulting in an alternating configuration of first and second channels. The first channels have fluid or oxygen flowing therethrough, while the second channels have the other of oxygen or fluid flowing therethrough. An output manifold, having an oxygen collection area separated from a fluid collection area, operatively engages with the monolithic body. The oxygen collection area receives substantially pure oxygen from one of the second or first channels, and the fluid collection area receives oxygen-depleted fluid from the other of the first or second channels.
US08070921B2	Method for electrical connection and magnetic compensation of aluminium reduction cells, and a system for same The present invention relates to a method and a system for electrical connection between the successive cells (pots) arranged in series for the production of aluminium by electrolysis of alumina dissolved in molten cryolite, by the Hall-Heroult process. The invention is applied to series of cells arranged transversely to the axis of the series (line) and operating at a current greater than 300 kA and possibly above 600 kA. The present invention combines the different advantages of known design concepts into effective novel technical solutions for large pots. The solution optimises the resulting magnetic field and busbar performance parameters like voltage drop, weight, current distribution, distribution and average levels of magnetic field, inter-row distance, anode riser solutions and physical space for the busbar requirements.
US08070916B2	Device for producing a web of tissue Method and device for producing a web of tissue. In the method, the web of tissue is led over at least one drying cylinder, doctored off the latter with a creping doctor and then wound up by way of a winding device. The web of tissue is supported at least largely over the entire distance between creping doctor and winding device on one side by a transfer device, so that there is only a short free web draw, while its other side is free. The device includes at least one drying cylinder, a creping doctor arranged on the drying cylinder and a winding device that winds up the web of tissue. Between the creping doctor and the winding device, a transfer device at least largely bridges the entire distance which supports the web of tissue on one side. There is a short free web draw, but its other side is left free.
US08070913B2	Soft tissue paper having a polyhydroxy compound applied onto a surface thereof A tissue paper product having at least one ply, wherein only one outer surface of said tissue paper product has a polyhydroxy compound selected from the group consisting of glycerols, polyglycerols, polyethylene glycols (PEGS), polyoxyethylenes, polyoxypropylenes, and combinations thereof applied thereto by slot extrusion, said polyhydroxy compound providing said tissue paper product with a Wet Burst greater than about 90 g, a Dynamic Coefficient of Friction less than about 0.9, and a Bending Flexibility less than about 0.1 gf cm2/cm.
US08070909B2	Feedback control of chemical mechanical polishing device providing manipulation of removal rate profiles A method of controlling surface non-uniformity of a wafer in a polishing operation includes (a) providing a model for a wafer polishing that defines a plurality of regions on a wafer and identifies a wafer material removal rate in a polishing step of a polishing process for each of the regions, wherein the polishing process comprises a plurality of polishing steps, (b) polishing a wafer using a first polishing recipe based upon an incoming wafer thickness profile, (c) determining a wafer thickness profile for the post-polished wafer of step (b), and (d) calculating an updated polishing recipe based upon the wafer thickness profile of step (c) and the model of step (a) to maintain a target wafer thickness profile. The model can information about the tool state to improve the model quality. The method can be used to provide feedback to a plurality of platen stations.
US08070908B2	(Meth)acrylic adhesive with low odor and high impact resistance The present invention relates to (meth)acrylic adhesives with high impact resistance and no or low odor. The compositions comprise at least a (meth)acrylic ester E which may be obtained by esterification of an alcohol ALC and methacrylic or acrylic acid, said alcohol ALC contains at least 5 carbon atoms; and at least a rubber block co-polymer RS being solid at room temperature and which is a co-polymer of styrene and butadiene and/or isoprene and/or ethylene propylene diene monomer; and at least a polymer PL having pending (meth)acrylic groups and is a butadiene/acrylonitrile co-polymer with terminal (meth)acrylic groups or a polyurethane (meth)acrylate or an ester obtainable by esterification of an alcohol ALC-II and methacrylic or acrylic acid and which has a molecular weight between 200 and 9000 g/mol. Such combinations E-RS-PL have lower viscosity than PL and a combination E-RS.
US08070904B2	Method of making a body part or chassis part of a motor vehicle In a method of making a body part or chassis part of a motor vehicle, several pre-impregnated fiber materials (prepregs) are stacked on top o one another, with an outermost prepreg intended for attachment to a metallic base body being provided with an adhesive. The stacked prepregs are then shaped into a three-dimensional preform which is then compressed with the base body in a press tool for bonding the preform with the base body and allowing the adhesive to cure, thereby producing a joined structure which is allowed to cure.
US08070900B2	Process for the production of a blister sheet Process for the production of a blister sheet which comprises the following steps: a) extrusion of a bottom film, a central film, a top film starting from the corresponding granule; b) thermoforming of the central film; c) calibration and partial cooling of the bottom and top films; d) heating of at least one side of the bottom and top films and coupling of the two bottom and top films with the thermoformed film.
US08070892B2	High Fe contained zirconium alloy compositions having excellent corrosion resistance and preparation method thereof A high Fe-containing zirconium composition having excellent corrosion resistance and a preparation method thereof. Specifically, disclosed are a high Fe-containing zirconium composition having excellent corrosion resistance and a preparation method thereof, the composition comprising: 0.5-1.0 wt % iron; 0.25-0.5 wt % chromium; 0.06-0.18 wt % oxygen; at least one element selected from the group consisting of 0.2-0.5 wt % tin, 0.1-0.3 wt % niobium and 0.05-0.3 wt % copper; and the balance of zirconium. The zirconium alloy has excellent corrosion resistance, and thus can be used as a material for nuclear fuel claddings, spacer grids and nuclear reactor core structures in light water reactor and heavy water reactor nuclear power plants.
US08070890B2	Induction hardened hollow driving shaft The present invention provides an induction-hardened hollow driving shaft that comprises, as a raw material, a steel pipe that contains, by mass %, 0.30 to 0.47% C, 0.5% or less Si, 0.3 to 2.0% Mn, 0.018% or less P, 0.015% or less S, 0.15 to 1.0% Cr, 0.001 to 0.05% Al, 0.005 to 0.05% Ti, 0.004% or less Ca, 0.01% or less N, 0.0005 to 0.005% B and 0.0050% or less O (oxygen) and the balance Fe and impurities and of which Beff defined by an equation (a) or (b) below is 0.0001 or more, wherein a prior austenite grain size number (JIS G0551) after the hardening is 9 or more. Here, in the case of Neff=N−14×Ti/47.9≧0, Beff=B−10.8×(N−14×Ti/47.9)/14 . . . (a), and, in other cases, Beff=B . . . (b). According to the present invention, a hollow driving shaft that is simultaneously provided with excellent cold workability, hardenability, toughness and torsional fatigue strength and can exert stable fatigue lifetime can be obtained and can be widely utilized.
US08070886B2	Treatment solution for forming of black trivalent chromium chemical coating on zinc or zinc alloy and method of forming black trivalent chromium chemical coating on zinc or zinc alloy A treatment solution that is used to form a chemical coating of trivalent chromium free of hexavalent chromium having uniform black appearance and good corrosion resistance on the surface of zinc or zinc alloy and that attains prolongation of treatment bath lifetime; and a method of forming a black trivalent chromium chemical coating on the surface of zinc or zinc alloy. There is provided a treatment solution for forming of a black trivalent chromium chemical coating on zinc or zinc alloy, comprising trivalent chromium ions, a chelating agent capable of forming a water-soluble complex with trivalent chromium, zinc ions, a sulfur compound and phosphite ions.
US08070885B2	Quenching fluid Quenching fluid composition comprising one or more additives and a saturated base oil having a kinematic viscosity at 100° C. “K” expressed in centistokes and a viscosity index “I” wherein I is greater than 120 and K greater than 2 cSt.
US08070880B2	Substrate processing apparatus Provided is a substrate processing apparatus. The substrate processing apparatus includes a reaction tube, a substrate holder, a gas nozzle, a heating unit, a temperature detector, and an exhaust unit. The reaction tube accommodates and processes substrates. The substrate holder holds substrates stacked at predetermined intervals in the reaction tube. The gas nozzle is installed along a stacked direction of the substrates. The heating unit heats the substrates. The temperature detector is installed along the stacked direction of the substrates. The exhaust unit exhausts an inside atmosphere of the reaction tube. Each of the gas nozzle and the temperature detector includes first and second parts and is supported by a narrow tube supporting member including first and second supporting parts. The first supporting part makes contact with the first part. The second supporting part is parallel with the second part and supports the second part.
US08070877B2	Method for the production of a plant-based construction material and construction material obtained by means of said method The construction material on a plant basis PB (preferably miscantus) contains a binder and a mineralizer composed of a defined mixture M2 of calcium carbonate CaCO3 and magnesium carbonate MgCO3 that is prepared in an application-oriented manner, thereby resulting in a substantial improvement of its chemical, physical, and mechanical properties. The weight proportions of the components constituting said mixture M2 are comprised between approx. 60% and approx. 95%, preferably between 2/3 and 9/10, for the CaCO3, and between approx. 5% and approx. 40%, preferably between 1/10 and 1/3, for the MgCO3. The method for producing said construction material is rationalized by previously admixing the mineralizer to the binder, preferably Portland cement of strength class 52.5, directly at the binder plant according to determined specifications to obtain a mixture M1. The weight proportions of the components constituting the mixture M1 are comprised between approx. 50% and approx. 90%, preferably between 6/10 and 4/5, for the binder, and between approx. 10% and approx. 50%, preferably between 1/5 and 4/10, for the mineralizer. In order to improve the solidification process, a fungicidal preparation is added to the mixing water. A universal construction material allowing innumerable applications can be produced from the aggregate {PB+M1}. The range of applications is further enlarged by adding another application-oriented mixture M3 to said aggregate in defined proportions (e.g. gypsum for producing quick-assembly structural panels) or a flow agent in order to allow an extrusion method (e.g. for producing bar-shaped elements)).
US08070869B2	Inkjet recording yellow ink, inkjet recording ink set and inkjet recording method Disclosed is an inkjet recording yellow ink comprising at least one water-soluble azo dye selected from the group consisting of a compound represented by formula (Y) described below and a salt thereof and at least one glycol ether represented by formula (A) described below, wherein the glycol ether is contained in an amount of 25% by mass to 100% by mass relative to a total amount of water-soluble organic solvent in the ink.
US08070867B2	Ink, inkjet ink, inkjet recording ink set, inkjet recording method and method for improving weather resistance of color image material An ink includes at least one coloring matter represented by a formula (1): wherein X1 represents one of —CR1═ and a nitrogen atom; X2 represents one of —CR2═ and a nitrogen atom; X3 represents one of —CR3═ and a nitrogen atom; R1, R2 and R3 each independently represents one of a hydrogen atom and a substituent; when R1, R2 and R3 each represents a substituent, the substituent may have a substituent; A represents one group selected from a prescribed pyridine ring group, pyrimidine ring group and quinoline ring group.
US08070866B2	Compounds suitable for use in inks and inks having such compounds Disclosed herein are ink compositions including an ink vehicle and a colorant, wherein the ink vehicle comprises a compound having a formula of: R1—CONH—R6—CONH—R3, R1—NHCO—R6—CONH—R3, R1—CONH—R6—NHCO—R3, R1—NHCO—R6—NHCO—R3, R1—CONH—R6—CONH—C34H64+n—CONH—R6—CONH—R3, R1—NHCO—R6—NHCO—C34H64+n—NHCO—R6—NHCO—R3, R1—CONH—R6—NHCO—C34H64+n—CONH—R6—NHCO—R3, R1—NHCO—R6—CONH—C34H64+n—NHCO—R6—CONH—R3, R1—CONH—R4—CONH—C34H64+n—CONH—R5—CONH—R3, R1—CONH—R4—NHCO—C34H64+n—CONH—R5—NHCO—R3, R1—NHCO—R4—CONH—C34H64+n—NHCO—R5—CONH—R3, R1—NHCO—R4—NHCO—C34H64+n—CONH—R5—CONH—R3, or R1—CONH—R4—CONH—C34H64+n—NHCO—R5—NHCO—R3, wherein n is an integer of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, R6 is a cyclic group having from 5 to 8 carbon atoms, R1 and R3 each comprise a branched alkyl group derived from isostearic acid, and R4 and R5 are the same or different and comprise an alkylene having from 1 to about 200 carbon atoms or
US08070863B2	Gas conditioning system The present invention provides a gas conditioning system for processing an input gas from a low temperature gasification system to an output gas of desired characteristics. The system comprises a two-stage process, the first stage separating heavy metals and particulate matter in a dry phase, and the second stage including further processing steps of removing acid gases, and/or other contaminants. Optional processes include adjusting the humidity and temperature of the input gas as it passes through the gas conditioning system. The presence and sequence of processing steps is determined by the composition of the input gas, the desired composition of output gas for downstream applications, and by efficiency and waste minimization.
US08070861B2	Active field polarized media air cleaner Improvements in active field polarized media air cleaner include an aerodynamic front cowling to reduce static air resistance, a rear double hinge to reduce blow by, a resistive center screen permitting the sharing of high voltage power supplies while reducing the tendency to arc and allowing for a higher operational voltage, a dielectric media support frame to produce a more uniform electrostatic field and reduce blow by, while at the same time reducing the tendency to spray corona and/or arc at the edges of the center screen, a substantially flat conductive outer screen to produce a more uniform electrostatic field throughout the filter media and a high-voltage shield to reduce high-voltage arcing and the spraying of corona where the high-voltage probe contacts the center screen.
US08070860B2	Pd menbrane having improved H2-permeance, and method of making An H2-permeable membrane system (117) comprises an electroless-deposited plating (115) of Pd or Pd alloy on a porous support (110, 110′). The Pd plating comprises face-centered cubic crystals cumulatively having a morphology of hexagonal platelets. The permeability to H2 of the membrane plating (115) on the porous support is significantly enhanced, being at least greater than about 1.3×10−8 mol·m−1·s−·Pa−0.5 at 350° C., and even greater than about 3.4×10−8 mol·m−1·s−1·Pa−0.5. The porous support (110, 110′) may be stainless steel (1100 and include a thin ceramic interlayer (110′) on which the Pd is plated. The method of providing the electroless-deposited plating includes preheating a Pd electroless plating solution to near a plating temperature substantially greater than room temperature, e.g. 60° C., prior to plating.
US08070853B2	Apparatus and method of providing concentrated product gas In one aspect, a product gas concentrator is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus may include: a first process separating absorbable components from a source gaseous mixture, a second process providing concentrated product gas in a continuous output mode, a third process providing concentrated product gas in a pulsed output mode, and a fourth process selectively switching between the continuous and pulsed output modes. In another embodiment, the apparatus may include: a first process pressurizing a source gaseous mixture, a second process separating absorbable components from the pressurized gaseous mixture, a product tank accumulating concentrated product gas for dispensing, an output path, a third process selecting a volume to be dispensed during a predetermined time, a pressure sensor monitoring pressure of the concentrated product gas, and a fourth process controlling flow of the concentrated product gas in response to the selected volume and the monitored pressure.
US08070852B2	Oxygen partial-pressure control unit and method of gas supply The oxygen partial pressure control unit includes a gas purification section for purifying the gas having the oxygen partial pressure controlled within a range of from 0.2 to 10−30 atm, and a tank for storing the purified gas produced by the gas purification section. The purified gas stored within the tank is supplied to the another unit. The oxygen partial pressure control unit includes a circulation circuit including the tank and the gas purification section. The gas filled in the tank 20 is caused to circulate along the circulation circuit, and the purified gas produced by the gas purification section is stored in the tank.
US08070851B2	Chloride heap leaching A heap leaching method to recover copper from a primary copper sulphide mineral wherein the mineral is leached in an acidic chloride/sulphate solution in the presence of oxygen with the surface potential of the mineral below 600 mV (vs. SHE) to cause dissolution of the copper sulphide.
US08070848B2	Air filter mounting system and method for fabricating the same An air filter mounting system includes a filter mounting element extending from an air intake, wherein the filter mounting element includes a locking plate, a filter support bolt coupled to and extending outward from the locking plate, a plurality of support legs extending from the air intake, wherein the plurality of support legs coupled to the locking plate, and a retaining nut sized to threadably engage the filter support bolt. The retaining nut includes a handle portion comprising a cavity defined therein, wherein the cavity is sized to receive at least a portion of a fastener therein, and an attachment portion including a threaded bore defined therein, wherein the attachment portion is sized to threadably receive the fastener therein, and wherein the threaded bore is substantially axially aligned with the cavity. The retaining nut includes a sealing skirt extending outward from the attachment portion and includes a flexible sealing surface.
US08070847B2	Substrate having corrugated sheet(s) and channel(s) for treating exhaust gases of combustion engines A substrate has corrugated sheet(s) and channel(s) for treating exhaust gases of combustion engines. The present invention also relates to methods for manufacturing and using the substrate having the open channel(s). The substrate (1) includes at least one corrugated sheet (3) having depressions (3d) and one flat wire mesh sheet (2) having depressions (2d) which is connected to the corrugated sheet (3) and between the flat wire mesh sheet (2) and the corrugated sheet (3) there are at least partially open channels (POC) for exhaust gas (EG) flow, and the depth of depression (2d) of the flat wire mesh sheet (2) is 0.05-2.0 mm smaller than the height of the corrugation (3c) of the corrugated sheet (3).
US08070841B2	Systems and methods for supplying auxiliary fuel streams during intermittent byproduct discharge from pressure swing adsorption assemblies Combustion fuel stream supply systems for use with pressure swing adsorption (PSA) assemblies, and hydrogen-generation assemblies and/or fuel cell systems containing the same. The PSA assemblies are operated according to a PSA cycle to receive a mixed gas stream and, while producing a product hydrogen stream therefrom, intermittently discharge a byproduct stream. The byproduct stream, when available, may be delivered as a fuel stream to a heating assembly, which may heat the hydrogen-producing region that produces the mixed gas stream. A combustion fuel stream supply system selectively supplies an auxiliary fuel stream when a byproduct stream is not discharged or otherwise does not have a predetermined combustion fuel value sufficient, when combusted, to maintain the hydrogen-producing region within a desired temperature range. The one or more streams supplied to the heating assembly have a combined combustion fuel value at least as great as the predetermined threshold value.
US08070833B2	Triacyglycerol based candle wax A triacylglycerol-based wax includes a triacylglycerol component and a polyol fatty acid partial ester component. The triacylglycerol-based wax may have a melting point of about 54° C. to 63° C., may have an Iodine Value of about 20 to 40, and may have a fatty acid profile including about 50 to 70 wt. % saturated fatty acids. The wax may be suitable for use as a candle.
US08070832B2	Disperse dyes, their preparation and use The invention provides for a dye of the formula (I) where D is the residue of a diazo component; R1 is hydrogen, (C1-C6)-alkyl, (C1-C4)-alkoxy, hydroxyl, halogen, —NHCHO, —NHCO(C1-C6)-alkyl or —NHSO2 (C1-C6)-alkyl; R2 is hydrogen, (C1-C6)-alkyl, (C1-C4)-alkoxy or halogen; R3 is hydrogen, (C1-C6)-alkyl, substituted (C1-C6)-alkyl, (C3-C4)-alkenyl or substituted (C3-C4)-alkenyl or R2 and R3 combine to form the radical —CH(CH3)CH2C(CH3)2—, where the carbon atom marked is attached to the phenyl nucleus; R4 is hydrogen or (C1-C6)-alkyl; R5 is hydrogen or (C1-C6)-alkyl; R6 is hydrogen or (C1-C6)-alkyl; X is phenyl, thiophenyl, sulfonylphenyl or phenoxy; n is 0, 1, or 2; and m is 0 or 1. The invention is also related to the process of using the dye and the process of preparing the dye.
US08070831B2	Composition comprising at least one solid fatty alcohol, dyeing or lightening process using same and devices The present disclosure relates to compositions for dyeing or lightening human keratin fibers, dyeing or lightening processes using the compositions, and two-compartment or three-compartment devices comprising the compositions, wherein the compositions comprise, in a cosmetically acceptable medium: at least 25% by weight of a mixture of fatty substances comprising at least one fatty alcohol that is solid at ambient temperature; at least one oxidizing agent; and optionally at least one basifying agent.
US08070828B2	Enhanced multiple viscosity liner A novel enhanced liner for prostheses provides for better for either off of the shelf or in customized form, to line a prosthetic used by amputees. Striking a balance between controlling the tear strength and imparting resiliency results in a user friendly product that can be easily donned, and doffed and worn without the drawbacks of the prior art. A unique coating allows the user to remove it like a tubular sock-member, and support comfort and convenience.
US08070824B2	Medical device delivery catheter Apparatus for delivering a medical device to a location in a patient's body includes an elongate catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end, a pod coupled with the distal end of the catheter body and adapted to house the medical device during delivery to the location and to open to release the medical device, and at least one distal actuator coupled with at least one of the pod and the medical device. The distal actuator is adapted to promote opening of the pod. A method involves advancing a pod at the distal end of an elongate catheter to the location within the body and activating an actuator coupled with the pod and/or the medical device to cause the pod to open. Opening the pod releases the medical device.
US08070823B2	Prosthetic ball-and-socket joint A prosthetic joint includes: (a) first member having a balanced centroidal axis, and comprising a rigid material and a concave interior defining a cup surface, the cup surface including: (i) a cantilevered first flange defining a wear-resistant protruding first contact rim, the first flange being asymmetric relative to the balanced centroidal axis; and (ii) a cantilevered second flange defining a wear-resistant protruding second contact rim; (b) a second member comprising a rigid material with a wear-resistant, convex contact surface; (c) where the first and second contact rims bear against the contact surface of the second member, to transfer loads between the first and second members, while allowing pivoting motion therebetween; and (d) wherein the flanges are shaped and sized so as to deform elastically and permit the first and second contact rims to conform in an irregular shape to the contact surface, when the joint is under load.
US08070822B1	Tool for controlling the mutual angle between the parts of an artificial hip joint A method for controlling the mutual angle between the parts of an artificial hip joint during an operation for insertion of the artificial hip joint, is described. The stem of the femoral hip prosthesis is fastened permanently or removable in the usual manner in the proximal end of the femur. A tool for controlling of the mutual angle between the stem of the prosthesis and the cup of the prosthesis is fastened to the stem. The femur of the patient is then oriented in a predefined position and the cup is then brought into its intended position by means of the femur of the patient and the mentioned tool. A tool for controlling the mutual angle between the parts of the artificial hip joint is also described.
US08070819B2	Apparatus and method for anterior intervertebral spinal fixation and fusion A fixation device including a housing, a shaft and a plurality of blades preloaded onto the shaft. The housing includes a leading deep surface, a trailing outer surface, weight bearing sides, and top and bottom surfaces. The shaft runs from the leading deep surface to the trailing outer surface of the housing. The plurality of blades includes at least one first blade having at least one cutting extension in a first orientation about the axis of the shaft and at least one second blade having at least one cutting extension in a second orientation about the axis of the shaft that is opposite to the first orientation. Each cutting extension of the blades has a sharp leading edge, wherein upon clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of each blade of the plurality of blades about the axis of the shaft in a direction in which the at least one cutting extension of each blade is oriented, the at least one cutting extension of each blade will break an endplate of a vertebra, hook into the vertebra and rigidly secure the vertebra to the device to prevent separation of the vertebra from the device during spinal motion.
US08070818B2	Disc annulus repair system A repair system including a closure prosthesis and deployment device, and associated methods for repairing any imperfection including a flaw, hole, tear, bulge, or, in some cases, a deliberate cut or incision in any tissue including an intervertebral disc. The prosthesis has first and second side portions with a connecting central portion, and is designed to span an imperfection with opposite ends positioned on opposite sides of the imperfection. The prosthesis may include anchoring features including barbs and/or members that extend transversely. The deployment device can include a cannula for positioning the prosthesis near the imperfection, and, in some cases, a mechanism that may cause the two sides of the prosthesis to be deployed in a specific order.
US08070815B2	V-shaped staple for spinal prosthesis An intervertebral implant system for positioning between an upper vertebra and a lower vertebra is provided. The implant system comprises an intervertebral implant and a staple. The implant comprises an inferior plate and a superior plate, while the superior plate has a vertebral surface facing the upper vertebra and the inferior plate has a vertebral surface facing the lower vertebra. There are two grooves on at least one vertebral surface extending at an angle outward from a centerline on the vertebral surface as they extend from the anterior portion of the plate toward the posterior portion of the plate. When in use, the staple is associated with the two grooves for maintaining stability of the intervertebral implant and preventing backing out of the intervertebral implant. The staple also has two arms and has a generally rectangular shape prior to use.
US08070814B2	Artificial intervertebral disc having an articulating joint An intervertebral device includes a first plate having an outer face and an inner face, and a second plate juxtaposed with the first plate, the second plate having an outer face, an inner face that opposes the first plate and a concavity that opposes the first plate. The device includes an elongated member extending from the first plate toward the second plate, the elongated member having a distal end with a spherical surface that is engageable with the concavity of the second plate for providing an articulating joint between the first and second plates. The device also includes a resilient member in contact with the elongated member for counteracting compressive loads on the plates, the resilient member being surrounded by the concavity of the second plate.
US08070813B2	Selectively expanding spine cage, hydraulically controllable in three dimensions for vertebral body replacement A selectively expanding spine cage has a minimized diameter in its unexpanded state that is smaller than the diameter of the neuroforamen through which it passes in the distracted spine. The cage conformably engages between vertebral bodies to effectively distract the disc space and rigidly fix the spine. Extendible members with multiple interfitting stages permit a relatively large range of distraction capability in a compact package.
US08070812B2	Prosthesis for partial replacement of a vertebral body A prosthesis for partial replacement of a vertebral body includes upper and lower contact plates that contact upper and lower vertebral bodies and a bridging element to be inserted into a bone cavity that bridges an intermediate vertebral body to be replaced that lies between the upper and lower vertebral bodies. This bridging element has anchoring projections which can be moved between a retracted implantation position and a protruding anchoring position.
US08070811B2	Facet arthroplasty devices and methods A prosthesis replaces all or a portion of a natural facet joint on a vertebral body. The prosthesis has a prosthesis body accommodating fixation to the vertebral body at or near a pedicle and without support by a lamina. The prosthesis body has a fastening element installed within the vertebral body at or near a pedicle. The prosthesis further has an artificial facet joint structure carried by the prosthesis body at a location spaced from the fastening element. The artificial facet joint structure is adapted and configured to replace all or a portion of a natural facet joint.
US08070808B2	Variable cohesive gel form-stable breast implant A variable cohesive gel form stabilizing implant is disclosed for augmentation or reconstruction of the breast. The prosthesis of this invention comprises an implantable shell or envelope (not limited to a single shell or envelope), filled with a biocompatible gel, or gels, having alterations in gel cohesiveness to maintain stable form, shape, and dimension after surgical implantation. The gel cohesiveness may increase, with increased volume or dimension of the prosthesis. The variable cohesiveness of the gel filler material may be altered by any means (i.e. chemical, fabrication, etc.). The variable cohesive gel form stabilizing implant has shape retention characteristics to maintain its form, thereby reducing or eliminating the undesirable effects of shell wrinkling, knuckling, scalloping or deformation, which can occur at the upper or lower pole of the prostheses, along the perimeter of the shell or at the base, post-implantation. Finally, the variable cohesive gel form stabilizing implant provides new control and possibilities for achieving and preserving the most natural breast shape.
US08070797B2	Medical device with a porous surface for delivery of a therapeutic agent The present invention is generally directed to implantable medical devices for delivering therapeutic agents to the body tissue of a patient and methods for making such medical devices. In particular, the present invention is directed to implantable medical devices, such as intravascular stents, having a surface that includes a plurality of cavities and a plurality of pores and a composition disposed in the pores and/or cavities, as well as, implantable medical devices, such as intravascular stents, having a surface that has a coating composition disposed on the surface, wherein the coating composition includes a plurality of cavities and a plurality of pores and another coating composition disposed in the pores and/or cavities.
US08070796B2	Thrombosis inhibiting graft A medical method that is adapted for introducing the medical device into the vascular system of a body which is designed to inhibit or prevent thrombosis after the insertion of the medical device.
US08070790B2	Capture device for stent graft delivery An apex capture device for holding proximal apices of a stent to be implanted includes a distal capture portion to be fixedly connected to a distal end of a first hollow lumen and a proximal capture portion fixedly connected to a distal end of a second hollow lumen. The distal capture portion has a longitudinal axis, a distal portion with a proximal end, and a proximal stopper having a distal side and a proximal side. At least a portion of the proximal side of the proximal stopper extends along a line that intersects a hollow first lumen. The proximal capture portion has fingers that define an interior cavity shaped to receive the proximal stopper.
US08070787B2	Warming device A warming device includes a clinical garment having an inside surface supporting a convective apparatus with multiple separately inflatable sections, each adapted to enable a particular mode of warming.
US08070786B2	System for fusing joints A method of fusing a joint between two bones, comprising boring a hole through one of the bones across the joint therebetween and into the other bone, placing the leading end of a screw into the hole, where the screw has a threaded region having a pitch that is larger toward a leading end of the screw and smaller toward a trailing end of the screw, and driving the screw into the bone until the threaded region spans the joint.
US08070785B2	Bone anchor prosthesis and system A prosthetic screw system that includes a prosthetic screw for at least partial insertion into a bone and/or cartilage. The prosthetic screw includes a head and a lower portion connected to the head. The prosthetic screw system also includes a set of head-pieces that can be connected to the head of the prosthetic screw. The head-pieces have differing configurations that are designed to be connected to different types of components of a prosthetic system. The universal connection arrangement between the prosthetic screw and the set of head-pieces enables the prosthetic screw to be customized for connection with a variety of components of a prosthetic system. The head-pieces can alternatively or additionally include a mechanical and/or electrical mechanism that provides one or more substances (e.g., medicine and/or other biological agent, etc.) and/or electrostimulation to a surgical site.
US08070783B2	Facet joint replacement Various methods and devices for replacing damaged, injured, diseased, or otherwise unhealthy posterior elements, such as the facet joints, the lamina, the posterior ligaments, and/or other features of a patient's spinal column, are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the methods and devices are effective to mimic the natural function of the spine by allowing flexion, extension, and lateral bending of the spine, while substantially restricting posterior-anterior shear and rotation of the spine.
US08070778B2	Interspinous process implant with slide-in distraction piece and method of implantation Systems and method in accordance with embodiments of the present invention can includes an implant having an initiating piece and a distraction piece. The initiating piece can include a lower distraction element, a second wing, a lower portion of a spacer, and a lower portion of a first wing. The initiating piece can be positioned such that an interspinous ligament of the targeted motion segment is disposed between the first and second wing. The distraction piece can include an upper distraction element, an upper portion of the spacer, and an upper portion of the first wing, and can be mated with the initiating piece by mating a rail of the distraction piece with a slot of the initiating piece, thereby disposing the implant between adjacent spinous processes.
US08070777B2	Method and device for treating abnormal curvature of a spine This invention relates to a spinal facet cap for treating scoliosis, the facet cap comprising a shim portion for inserting into a facet joint of a spine, and an alignment portion for maintaining alignment of the shim portion within the facet joint. The invention also provides a method for treating scoliosis, comprising implanting at least one spinal facet cap into at least one facet joint of a subject in need thereof.
US08070774B2	Reinforced bone anchor 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.
US08070773B2	Medical closure methods and screen devices A medical closure screen device for a separation of first and second tissue portions is provided, which includes a mesh screen comprising tubular vertical risers, vertical strands with barbed filaments, and horizontal spacers connecting the risers and strands in a grid-like configuration. An optional perimeter member partly surrounds the screen and can comprise a perimeter tube fluidically coupled with the vertical risers to form a tubing assembly. Various input/output devices can optionally be connected to the perimeter tube ends for irrigating and/or draining the separation according to methodologies of the present invention. Separation closure, irrigation and drainage methodologies are disclosed utilizing various combinations of closure screens, tubing, sutures, fluid transfer elements and gradient force sources. The use of mechanical forces associated with barbed strands for repositionably securing separated tissues together is disclosed. The use of same for eliminating or reducing the formation of subcutaneous voids or pockets, which can potentially form hematoma and seroma effects, is also disclosed.
US08070770B2	Iris valve with novel locking mechanism A laparoscopic surgical access device comprises a first frame and a second frame having relative axial positions. A flexible and resilient iris valve is connected to the first and second frames and has a closed position and an opened position based on the relative angular position of the first and second frames. A lock is connected to the first and second frames, the lock being selectively operative to prevent relative rotational movement in a first rotational direction. One embodiment uses a ratchet and pawl mechanism operable with a control ring. Another embodiment uses a ratchet and pawl mechanism operable with a button. Yet another embodiment uses a wedge track and ball mechanism.
US08070768B2	Devices and methods for treatment of obesity Implantable devices, instruments, kits and methods for treatment of obesity. One or more devices can be implanted adjacent to or in contact with the stomach to occupy a space to prevent the stomach from expanding into that space as food is taken into the stomach. Alternatively, one or more devices may be implanted and expanded to displace at least a portion of the wall of the stomach to decrease the internal volume of the stomach that is available to receive food. Devices may be anchored to one or more internal structures at one or more locations without piercing through the wall of the stomach. Devices can be implanted using minimally invasive methods, such as percutaneous or laparoscopic methods. Delivery instruments are also provided. An intra-gastric sizing device is provided to facilitate implantation of an extra-gastric device in some method embodiments.
US08070765B2	Systems and methods for surgical removal of brain tumors A method for treating a brain tumor includes providing a surgical instrument having an inner member and an outer member. The outer member has a distal region forming a cutting window. The inner member is rotatably received within the outer member, and has a cutting tip that is exposed at the window. The cutting tip and the distal region of the outer member combine to define a cutting implement. An opening is created through the patient's skull to provide access to a brain tumor target site. The cutting implement is delivered through the opening to the target site. The cutting tip is placed into contact with the tumor and operated to cut the tumor. The target site is selectively aspirated to remove cut tumor tissue.
US08070764B2	Microkeratome with a detachable head A microkeratome that includes a latch assembly that couples a head to a hand piece. The latch assembly allows the head to be readily detached from the hand piece and sterilized. There is no need to also sterilize the hand piece. The microkeratome also has a ring assembly that is coupled to the head and the hand piece. The ring assembly may include a fastener that can be unfastened to allow the hand piece and head to be detached from the ring, even while the ring assembly is fixed to a cornea. The hand piece includes a motor that moves the blade across the ring. The microkeratome may have an aspiration connector with a collar that limits the travel of the blade the and thickness of a resulting lamella flap. The aspiration connector can be replaced with a collar of a different diameter to produce a flap with a different thickness.
US08070761B2	Vessel occluding material extractor Methods, devices, and systems for extracting vessel occluding material are provided. An embodiment of a vessel occluding material extractor includes a host structure, a plurality of expandable members, a slide mechanism, and a circumferential member. The host structure has an elongate axis. The expandable members are connected to the host structure arrayed radially around the elongate axis. The slide mechanism is connected to the expandable members and adjacent the host structure, and is slidable in the direction of the elongate axis. The circumferential member is connected to the expandable members between the connection of the slide mechanism and the host structure to the expandable members.
US08070760B2	Clipping instrument for an endoscopic surgical device A clipping instrument for an endoscope is provided. The clipping instrument includes a flexible sheath, an operation wire, at least one detachable clip assembly, including a pair of openable and closable clipping arms and a fastening ring, the clipping arms being configured to be projected forward to open and to be closed according to forwarding and retracting movements of the fastening ring through the operation wire, a withdrawal stopper and an advancement stopper, which are provided in the vicinity of the distal end portion of the flexible sheath. The withdrawal stopper restricts the fastening ring from being retracted rearward into the withdrawal stopper once the fastening ring is forwarded to penetrate through the withdrawal stopper. The advancement stopper restricts the fastening ring from being forwarded further to penetrate out of the advancement stopper once the fastening ring is forwarded to penetrate through the withdrawal stopper.
US08070758B2	Enhanced products and processes for removing cavity tissue Improved devices for removing tissue, for example nasal hair using natural wax. One embodiment uses telescoping tubes and there is wax or glue located in the inner tubes or between the tubes, whereby the tubes are located so that the inner one can extend or retract relative to the outer tube. Following heating the wax or glue for softening purposes, the same is applied to the inner part of the nasal cavity by emplacing the same in a desired naris and through application of force and wax extrusion through a cloth boot or otherwise, in combination with mild external pressure, removal is accomplished.
US08070756B2	Polypectomy device and method of use A polyp removal tool and method of use is disclosed. The tool includes a main body, an elongated hollow conduit fixed to the body, a handle, a cable assembly, a suction assembly and an irrigation system. The handle is used to actuate a snare at the end of a cable for transecting of polypoid tissue. The suction assembly is used in pre-conditioning the tissue for cutting and in polyp retention after cutting. The irrigation system is included for tissue recovery after transection. The tool may include a screen for capture of tissue within the device.
US08070750B2	Tunnel notcher and guidewire delivery device A tunnel notcher and guidewire delivery device is provided for creating a notch and positioning a guidewire within a bone tunnel. In general, the device includes an elongate member having proximal and distal ends with an inner lumen extending therebetween that is adapted to receive a guidewire. The device also includes a cutting element disposed on a distal portion of the elongate member that is adapted to remove bone within an opening of a bone tunnel. In use, the device 10 can be at least partially positioned within a bone tunnel containing a bone plug, and it can be manipulated to form a notch within or adjacent to an opening of the bone tunnel using the cutting element 18. The device 10 is also effective to deliver a guidewire 16 to the bone tunnel at a location adjacent to the notch.
US08070749B2	Revisable anterior cervical plating system An improved anterior cervical plating system and methods of cervical fusion using such a system are provided. The cervical plating system includes an interlocking mechanism that integrated into each of the plates such that any two plates may cooperatively engage through the interlocking mechanism such that a new cervical plate can be interconnected with a pre-existing plate during revision surgery without removal of the pre-existing plate.
US08070747B2	Energy based devices and methods for treatment of patent foramen ovale Methods and apparatus for treatment of patent foramen ovale (PFO) provide for applying energy to tissues adjacent the PFO with a catheter device to substantially close the PFO acutely. Apparatus generally includes a catheter device having at least one energy transmission member at or near its distal end configured to apply energy to PFO tissues to acutely, substantially close the PFO. Applied energy may be monopolar or bipolar radiofrequency energy or any other suitable energy, such as laser, microwave, ultrasound, resistive heating or the like. Some embodiments of a catheter device further include one or more tissue apposition members near the distal end for helping bring PFO tissues together, such as a PFO covering member, a vacuum applying member and/or the like. PFO closure via energy-based approaches of the invention may help prevent stroke, treat migraine headache, and possibly treat or prevent other medical conditions.
US08070746B2	Radiofrequency fusion of cardiac tissue A method for cardiac surgical intervention relies on sealing or fusing heart valve leaflets without requiring implanted materials such as sutures or staples. The method provides a forceps having at least one shaft and an end effector assembly attached thereto. The end effector assembly includes a pair of opposing jaw members configured to move from an open, spread position to a closed, grasping position; creating at least one opening in the patient for inserting the forceps therein; inserting through the opening and manipulating jaw members of the forceps to grasp a portion of a first heart valve leaflet and a portion of a second heart valve leaflet therebetween; activating the forceps to close the jaw members about the leaflet portions under a working pressure, applying radiofrequency energy to the jaw members to seal the portion of the first heart valve leaflet to the portion of the second heart valve leaflet.
US08070745B2	Medication infusion device using negatively biased ambient pressure medication chamber A method and apparatus for infusing medication into a patient's body using a medication chamber referenced to ambient pressure. The apparatus includes a medication chamber enclosed by a peripheral wall which includes a movable portion configured to transfer exterior ambient pressure into the chamber. Means are provided for exerting a negative bias force acting on the movable portion in a direction opposed to the ambient pressure force. Thus, the resultant pressure in the chamber will be negative with respect to ambient pressure, reducing the risk that the chamber can be overpressurized and produce an unintended medication discharge.
US08070741B2	Safety shield system for prefilled syringe A medical device is provided which includes a shield system and a syringe which is coupled to the shield system. The shield system includes a syringe holder and a shield which is slidably coupled to the holder. A spring resiliently urges the shield from a retracted position to an extended position. Stop members are provided on the holder and shield for maintaining the shield in the retracted position. The syringe is slidably coupled to the holder, and extends within the shield. Axial movement of the syringe with respect to the holder causes disengagement of the stop members, allowing the spring to move the shield to the extended position. Detents are provided on the holder for maintaining the shield in the extended position.
US08070735B2	Aspiration pump unit The portable aspiration pump unit of the invention, for the aspiration of bodily fluids, has a pump assembly housing (1) with a pump assembly (6) and at least one secretion or fluid collection reservoir (2) detachably connected to this pump assembly housing (1). The pump assembly housing has a front wall (11), a rear wall (10), and a side wall (16) arranged between these two walls, while the front wall and the rear wall each have one wall edge (100, 110) projecting beyond this side wall, and the fluid collection reservoir is held between these wall edges. In this way, the fluid collection reservoir can be secured easily to the pump assembly housing, yet be held firmly and protected inside it. This aspiration pump unit enables a simple and secure replacing of the fluid collection reservoir and affords the patient a heightened mobility.
US08070734B2	Arrangement for the removal of waste products during the ablation of biological tissue The invention relates to an arrangement for the removal of waste products, such as smoke and tissue particles, arising during the ablation of biological tissue by means of laser irradiation. According to the invention, discharge openings for a flushing gas are provided, which are arranged such that the gas flows meet above the ablation region at an angle of ca. 100° and stratify to give a gas flow taken up by a suction opening.
US08070731B2	Surgical access apparatus An access apparatus for use during a surgical procedure to provide access to the interior of the body includes an access member defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end for being disposed at an exterior side of the body and a distal end for extending into the interior of the body. The access member has a bore therethrough dimensioned to permit passage of an object. A seal is disposed within the bore of the access member. The seal includes a fabric material and an elastomeric material, and defines an internal passageway dimensioned to form a substantial sealing relation with an object inserted therethrough.
US08070728B2	Cannula assembly with detachable inner and outer cannulas A cannula assembly for injecting implant material into a bone, including an inner cannula defining a central conduit including a first proximal port in communication with the central conduit, an outer cannula surrounding the inner cannula to define a peripheral conduit, and a connector interconnecting the cannulas and detachable from at least one of the cannulas, and at least one of the connector, the first cannula and the second cannula including a second proximal port in communication with the peripheral conduit defined along a direction different than a longitudinal axis of the first and second cannulas.
US08070727B2	Drive mechanisms suitable for use in drug delivery devices The present disclosure is directed to a dose setting mechanism that may be used with a drug delivery device. The dose setting mechanism may include an inner body having a helical thread along an outer cylindrical surface of the inner body, and a drive sleeve for driving a piston rod in an axial direction, the drive sleeve positioned within at least a portion of the inner body. The dose setting mechanism may further include a dose dial sleeve rotatably engaged with the helical thread of the inner body and a dial grip connected to the dose dial sleeve and releasably connected to the drive sleeve. Further when a dose is set, the dial grip is rotated so that both the dose dial sleeve and the drive sleeve rotate with respect to the inner body.
US08070724B2	Apparatus for extracting milk from a breast and related pump unit An apparatus (1) for extracting milk from a breast, comprising means (2,3) for receiving at least a portion of a breast and its nipple; a container (5) for collecting the milk operatively connected to said means (2,3) for receiving at least partially a breast and its nipple; a pump unit (100) operatively connected to said means (2,3) for receiving at least partially a breast and its nipple, said pump unit (100) being operated manually to generate at least an aspiration able to cause a suction on the breast by imposing a predetermined degree of vacuum within said means for receiving the breast and the nipple. The manually operated pump unit (100) comprises means for regulating the degree of vacuum that is generated. Pump unit (100) operated manually and connectable to a kit for collecting milk from a breast.
US08070723B2	Activity guard The fluid infusion system is disclosed that includes a pump housing that has a reservoir cavity and is designed to be pocketable. The reservoir cavity has a rim and helical coupling features formed on an interior face of the reservoir cavity. The fluid infusion system further has a reservoir that is removable from the reservoir cavity and the reservoir also has an open end. A removable cap coupled to the pump housing is also included in the fluid infusion system. The cap has corresponding coupling features, an exterior surface and a tab. The corresponding coupling features are defined to couple the cap to the pump housing while the tab is defined as a ridge that extends away from the exterior surface. The tab further has a port to accommodate fluid flow from the reservoir where the port defines an axis of rotation such that torque applied to the tab about the axis of rotation disengages the coupling between the cap and the pump housing. Further included in the infusion system is a guard that is removably coupled to the pump housing. The guard has a slot defined to immobilize rotation of the tab about the axis of rotation.
US08070718B2	Medical devices formed with a sacrificial structure and processes of forming the same Medical devices formed using a sacrificial structure, and processes of forming the devices therefrom.
US08070709B2	Peritoneal dialysis machine A peritoneal dialysis machine including: a housing; a mechanically actuated piston head extending from a pump actuator housed by the housing, the mechanically actuated piston head positioned to extend towards and away from a fluid pumping cassette, the fluid pumping cassette coupled operably to the housing such that a flexible membrane of the fluid pumping cassette faces the piston head; a pressure sensor positioned by the housing adjacent to the mechanically actuated piston head so as to sense a pressure of a medical fluid moved by the mechanically actuated piston head within the fluid pumping cassette; and a vacuum chamber formed about the mechanically actuated piston head, the vacuum chamber holding a vacuum that sucks the flexible membrane of the fluid pumping cassette onto the mechanically actuated piston head as the mechanically actuated piston head extends away from the fluid pumping cassette.
US08070706B2	Apparatus and method for in-vivo plasmapheresis using periodic backflush containing anticoagulant Method for in-vivo plasmapheresis utilizing a plurality of elongated hollow microporous filter fibers periodically interrupt diffusion of blood plasma from a patient, and, for a selected time, directing backflush fluid into the fibers at a pressure and interval sufficient to cleanse the fiber pores, after which plasma diffusion is resumed. The backflush fluid, preferably a normal saline solution, may contain an anticoagulant such as heparin, citrate or NO donor in suitable concentration for systemic anti-coagulation or for treating the fiber for thromboresistance.
US08070700B2	Lower extremity enhancer A lower extremity enhancer to be worn by a user includes two leg supports having a plurality of jointed links. Proximal ends of the leg supports are connected to a back frame. Distal ends of the leg supports are connected to two foot links. The leg supports are powered by a plurality of actuators adapted to apply torques to the leg supports in response to movement of the user's legs.
US08070694B2	Fiber based medical devices and aspiration catheters Systems for less invasive medical procedures comprise a filter device mounted on an integrated guiding structure and an aspiration catheter. These components can be used together or separately, and the system can be used with other medical devices that are designed for less invasive procedures, such as procedures in a patient's vasculature. The filter device can involve improved torque coupling with a torque coupler associated with a resilient member that correspondingly also provides increased flexibility relative to an overtube that forms a tube for the remaining portions of the device. An actuation tool for the filter device used a systematic loading procedure for proper loading of the corewire and overtube into the actuation tool. A fiber cartridge comprises fibers loaded as a bundle into the cartridge for delivery with the ends of the fibers respectively bonded to radiopaque markers that can be visualized to come together when the filter is properly deployed. The aspiration catheter generally has a rapid exchange format. The catheter can have a radiopaque band that is held in place under metal wire embedded within the polymer forming the tube of the catheter. In some embodiments, the aspiration catheter has a small diameter distal portion that can access into small diameter vessels in which the distal portion has a smaller average diameter than the remaining tube of the catheter.
US08070692B2	Integrated sensor for analyzing biological samples An integrated lancet and testing striplet for measuring a body analyte level in a health care regimen includes a skin piercing member and an analyte sensor coupled together.
US08070689B2	Perforating trocar The invention concerns the field of surgical instruments. The inventive trocar (1) is of the type comprising a rigid tube (2) wherein may slide a rod (3) with a perforating distal tip, and it is characterized in the distal tip zone of the rod forms a perforating drill capable of rotating on its axis while the distal end of the tube is divided into at least two segments (10, 11), with helical cutting edge. The invention is applicable in particular to bone biopsy.
US08070685B2	Connectorized probe for transesophageal echocardiography A connectorized ultrasound probe includes a distal section that is configured for insertion into a patient's body and a proximal section configured to interface the distal section with an ultrasound system. The distal section is easily attachable and detachable from the proximal section using at least one set of connectors. When connected, a user-operated actuator located on the proximal section controls the bending of the distal section, and the ultrasound system sends driving signals to and receives return signals from the ultrasound transducer via the proximal section. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for long term monitoring, because the disconnectability of the proximal section makes it possible to leave the distal section in place in the patient for longer periods of time without undue discomfort.
US08070683B2	Scan conversion for ultrasonic imaging and apparatus using the same A scan conversion method for ultrasonic imaging is disclosed. The method comprises a storage step for storing sample data derived from ultrasonic echo signals into a memory; a conversion step for performing conversion between target coordinate points in a display coordinate system and interpolation coordinate points in a sampling coordinate system; and an interpolation step for interpolating several sample data adjacent to the interpolation coordinate points to obtain the interpolation data at the interpolation coordinate points, wherein the interpolation step includes a nonlinear interpolation substep selected for low-pass filter of the ultrasonic echo signals. When interpolation is conducted along Axis θ of the polar coordinates, 4-point interpolation may be used. The interpolation coefficient may be based on cubic B-spline function, which has relatively uniform low-pass filter effects, thereby reducing noise result from interpolation in ultrasonic image.
US08070682B2	Method and apparatus for medical imaging using combined near-infrared optical tomography, fluorescent tomography and ultrasound Methods and apparatus for medical imaging using diffusive optical tomography and fluorescent diffusive optical tomography and ultrasound are disclosed. In one embodiment, the probe comprises emitters and detectors that are inclined at an angle of about 1 to about 30 degrees to a surface of the probe that contacts tissue. In another embodiment, the scanned volume is divided into an inclusion region and a background region. Different voxel sizes are used in the inclusion region and the background region. Appropriate algorithms facilitate a reconstruction of the inclusion region to determine structural and functional features of the inclusion.
US08070675B2	Penile prosthesis cap and assembly A cap configured to be attached to a cylinder of an implantable penile prosthesis includes a body section and a tip section. The body section defines a recess that is attachable to an end of the cylinder of the implantable penile prosthesis and the tip section terminates in a tip having a curved exterior surface. The tip section defines at least one slot formed therein that extends away from the body section and has a slot axis that intersects with a longitudinal axis of the cap.
US08070674B1	Sex enhancer A sex enhancer is a flexible and deformable fluid-filled enclosure with a smooth exterior surface having a rounded shape. The sex enhancer is heated and inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse. During sexual intercourse, the penis pushes the sex enhancer against the cervix to provide enhanced pleasure to the woman without detracting from the pleasure of the man.
US08070673B2	Devices and methods to treat a patient Disclosed are methods and apparatus for implantation into the walls of an organ such as the stomach. Deformable or inflatable anchors with a connector between are used to pull the walls of the organ together, or to implant devices in the wall of the organ. Also disclosed are surgical instruments useful in practicing the disclosed methods.
US08070664B2	Disposable device for the continuous centrifugal separation of a physiological fluid The invention relates to disposable device for the continuous centrifugal separation of a physiological fluid. The inventive device comprises: a fixed axial element; a centrifugation chamber which is mounted such that it can rotate around the axis of said element; an inlet channel for the blood to be centrifuged, the dispensing port of which is located close to the base of the chamber; and an outlet passage for a separated constituent, the inlet port of which is located close to the other end of the chamber in a concentrated area of one of the separated constituents having the lowest mass density in order for same to be removed continuously. The above-mentioned chamber takes the form of a long tube. The fixed axial element comprises a second outlet passage for a second of the separated constituents, the inlet port of which is located close to the end of the chamber opposite the above-mentioned base in a concentrated area of said second separated constituent having the highest mass density in order for same to be removed continuously.
US08070655B1	System and method for promoting and tracking physical activity among a participating group of individuals A system and method of tracking physical activity of a person in order to help motivate that person to add more exercise to their lives. Each participant is provided a motion sensor that detects forces incurred by the participant. The motion sensor creates electronic data that corresponds to the forces detected. The data is analyzed to determine whether or not exercise has been performed. The analysis can also determine the type of exercise performed, when the exercise was performed, and the duration of the exercise performed.
US08070653B2	Method and system for controlling engine speed, engine torque and output from a torque converter The present invention broadly comprises a method for controlling engine speed, engine torque, and torque converter output including the steps of applying engine torque to a torque converter and modulating the transferring of the torque to a pump for the torque converter. In some aspects, the torque converter further comprises a pump clutch and the method applies torque to the pump clutch and controllably slips the pump clutch. In some aspects, the method supplies engine torque from an engine with a turbocharger and controllably slips the pump clutch to increase speed and torque for the engine during a launch event for the vehicle or determines a parameter regarding operation of the vehicle and controllably slips the pump clutch responsive to the parameter. The present invention also comprises a method for controlling torque converter output by connecting a clutch between an engine and a torque converter and controllably slipping the clutch.
US08070652B2	Method for overcoming tooth butt conditions when engaging gears in transmissions The present invention relates to a method for overcoming tooth butt conditions (ZaZ) when engaging gears in transmissions. A sensitive adjustment of the clutch to apply torque for rotating the drive shaft of the transmission in order to overcome tooth butt conditions has certain limits because of the proportion of the power required and desired for making said sensitive adjustment. This may cause unpleasant jerking of the vehicle or a clearly audible locking noise of the involved positively connected elements and undesired mechanical stress to said elements.The method according to the present invention provides a remedy due to the fact that during each shifting process, regardless of the occurrence of a tooth butt condition, the clutch is brought into a position allowing minimum predetermined torque transmission to the drive shaft of the transmission, and this torque is supported on a transmission brake, which is often already available. Due to its substantially smaller size, the transmission brake can much more quickly and accurately adjust a desired net torque curve and torque progress on the drive shaft of the transmission when a tooth butt condition occurs and thus make it significantly easier to overcome the tooth butt condition.
US08070651B2	Work machine coast and brake control with an infinitely variable transmission A work machine includes an IC engine having an output, an IVT having an input coupled with the IC engine output, and a ground speed actuator. A desired speed sensor associated with the ground speed actuator provides an output signal indicating a slower ground speed. At least one electrical processing circuit is configured for increasing an input/output (I/O) ratio of the IVT, dependent upon the sensor output signal, such that a net torque transfer back-driven from the IVT input to the IC engine output is substantially zero.
US08070649B2	Hybrid powertrain and dual clutch transmission An automatic dual clutch transmission includes an input clutch which selectively connects a prime mover to an electric motor. The electric motor, in turn, is connected to the inputs of a pair of coaxial friction clutches. Each of the coaxial outputs of the friction clutches drives an input gear with meshes with a pair of gears, one of which is associated with each of a respective pair of layshafts or countershafts. On each countershaft, between the pair of gears driven by the outputs of the two clutches, are a pair of synchronizer clutches which selectively synchronize and connect one of the two gears to the associated countershaft. A similar arrangement of a second pair of gears separated by synchronizer clutches connects the countershafts through a selected gear to a pair of output gears coupled to and driving a differential cage or spool.
US08070645B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices include clutches.
US08070643B2	Gear and clutch arrangement for multi-speed transmission A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing.
US08070642B2	Gear and clutch arrangement for multi-speed transmission A transmission is disclosed having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include five clutches and a brake arranged within a transmission housing.
US08070639B2	Power train for a motor vehicle Power train for a motor vehicle, having an engine with a driven shaft which has a crankshaft axle which is located longitudinally to the direction of travel and which is connected to a starting unit, a preliminary gear stage with an input shaft and an output shaft, the input shaft of the preliminary gear stage being connected to the starting unit and the output shaft of the preliminary gear stage having a lateral offset to the crankshaft axle, a variator which is preferably made as a disk variator with two adjustable disk sets for the continuous transmission of torque, and for which the input-side disk set is connected to the output shaft of the preliminary gear stage, while the output-side disk set is located laterally offset, a subsequent gear stage which has an input shaft and an output shaft and which is located on the same side of the variator as the preliminary gear stage, the input shaft of the subsequent gear stage being connected to the output-side disk set of the variator, and a first differential with a lateral driven shaft which is located transversely to the direction of travel and between the engine and the starting unit, and forms a first drive axle, the first differential being connected to the output shaft of the subsequent gear stage.
US08070635B2	Electromotive drives A transmission having a plurality of tilting balls and opposing input and output discs provides an infinite number of speed combinations over its transmission ratio range. The transmission provides multiple powerpaths and can be combined with electrical components to provide motor/generator functionality, which reduces the overall size and complexity of the motor and transmission compared to when they are constructed separately. In one embodiment, rotatable components of a continuously variable transmission are coupled separately to an electrical rotor and to an electrical stator so that the rotor and stator rotate simultaneously in opposite directions relative to one another. In other embodiments, an electrical rotor is configured to transfer torque to or from a disc that is in contact with a plurality of speed adjusters, while an electrical stator is configured to transfer torque to a shaft that is operationally coupled to the speed adjusters via an idler.
US08070633B2	Eccentric bottom bracket assembly An eccentric bottom bracket assembly having a body member, at least two wing members, a wedge driver with two wedge members, and at least one spring member altogether forming a tubular, cylindrical assembly to fit within the inner shell of the bottom bracket area of the bicycle frame for adjusting the chain length or tension. The assembly is preferably used for the front and rear bottom brackets of a tandem bicycle for adjusting the chain that is connected to the front and rear driving sprockets. The assembly is also alternatively used in single-rider bicycles and other bicycles with the need for adjusting chain tension. The assembly allows for the wing members and the body member to circumferentially and outwardly expand or inwardly retract by co-acting with the rotation of the wedge driver which laterally displaces the wedge members in a parallel direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the body member.
US08070632B2	Torsional Compensator A torsional compensator having an inner hub, an outer sprocket, left and right grippers, and a resilient torsion sleeve. The torsion sleeve occupies a generally annular cavity between the inner hub and outer sprocket and each end of the sleeve is coupled to a gripper. One gripper is coupled to the inside of the outer sprocket and the other gripper is coupled to the outside of the inner hub and they are axially spaced apart. The inner hub supports the outer sprocket for coaxial rotation thereon.
US08070629B2	GPS device A golf GPS device is disclosed herein. The device includes a GPS unit, a memory for storing a plurality of aerial images of a golf course, a display for displaying the plurality of aerial images, a user input for inputting a plurality of location points on an aerial image of the plurality of aerial images displayed on the display, and a processor comprising means for determining a distance between any two points on a golf course.
US08070627B2	Golf ball with non-circular dimples A golf ball has a substantially spherical outer surface comprised of a plurality of non-circular dimples. The dimples are formed by a plurality of lobes extending from a central hub, wherein each lobe is defined by a curved outer segment. The curved outer segments form at least a portion of the perimeter of the dimple. The dimples are comprised of at least four lobes. The dimples can also be comprised of a plurality of radiating arms emanating from a location proximate the hub of the dimple.
US08070624B2	Golf club with golf club head having compressible V-shaped grooves A golf club with a golf club head having compressible v-shaped grooves is presented. The club head may include a plurality of grooves formed in a striking face. In some arrangements, the grooves have a rectangular cross section. The grooves may also include a compressible insert having a v-shaped end and being formed of a material softer than that of the grooves. As the club head strikes a golf ball, the insert may compress, thereby allowing additional contact between the groove and the ball to impart spin on the ball. In an alternate arrangement, the groove may include a compressible support arranged between the insert and an end of the groove. The compressible insert may be formed of a material softer than the groove and/or the insert and is configured to compress when the club head strikes a golf ball.
US08070614B2	Connecting arrangement between a shaft journal and a joint part A connecting arrangement between a shaft journal, which is mounted so as to be axially fixed with respect to a unit, and a joint part which can be pivotably attached to the shaft journal in a rotationally fixed manner. A shaft nut having an internal thread which can be screwed onto an external thread of the shaft journal, is provided with an additional external thread onto which a further nut can be screwed. The further nut includes first and second thread sections with different pitch directions which produce an axially acting interlocking connection between the further nut, the shaft nut and the joint part.
US08070610B2	Repositionable handle assemblies for drop-in-bar gaming machines A “drop-in” style bar top gaming machine that includes a support frame having at least two opposed support walls, and a top panel assembly supporting a display device. The top panel assembly is further configured to cooperate with the support frame for movement between a closed position and an open position, enabling access to the support frame. An illumination assembly is provided for interior illumination of the gaming machine.
US08070602B2	Gambling machine The present invention relates to a gambling machine comprised of a display unit (1) to display a course of a game and to display game results, and comprised of an operating unit (3) to influence the course of a game, and comprised of an electronic control unit (2) connected to the display unit (1) and to the operating unit (3) to control the course of a game and to determine the game results. To provide such a gambling machine wherein the operating unit (3) is wear-free and vandalism-safe, the present invention proposes that the operating unit (3) be comprised of an operating panel (4) made of a dielectrical shockproof material, the front side of which forms the operating panel of the operating unit (3), with the operating panel (4) being comprised of an operating field (5) or being subdivided into several operating fields (5), and wherein a capacitive sensor element (8) arranged on the rear side of the operating panel (4) is allocated to each operating field (5).
US08070598B1	Player tracking system An embodiment of the invention includes an RF fob with an embedded identifier. The fob transmits a signal that is received by one of a plurality of games which recognizes the identifier and thus identifies the player who holds the fob. Several discrete remote gaming locations are connected to a central location where player information is stored and maintained. When a player scans his fob at a game at any remote location connected to the central location, the identifier is transmitted to the central location and player information is transmitted to the game. The player can begin play, accumulating points on his/her account reflective of his or her gaming activity. The player can also redeem points for cash at the game itself without third-party assistance.
US08070597B2	Gaming device and method having multiple progressive award levels and a secondary game for advancing through the progressive award levels A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming machines. The gaming system includes a plurality of different types of progressive awards adapted to be provided to one or more players of the gaming machines in the gaming system. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with an outcome of a primary game, such as a designated symbol combination, wherein if the associated primary game outcome is generated, such progressive award is provided to a player. In one embodiment, one or more progressive awards are each associated with a progressive hit value, wherein when each progressive award increments to its respective progressive hit value, a triggering event occurs, such progressive award is provided to a player and the player is provided the opportunity to one or more additional progressive awards.
US08070596B2	System which manages relationships between characters in a video game or other virtual environment This disclosure includes systems which generate a video game or other virtual environment, and player characters in the video game can form relationships of various natures. Certain relationships provide benefits and/or obligations. The video game facilitates the monitoring, forming and terminating of various kinds of relationships.
US08070595B2	Amusement devices and games including means for processing electronic data where ultimate outcome of the game is dependent on relative odds of a card combination and/or where chance is a factor: the monty hall paradox Games related to the provision of information are described. Games may be formulated to exploit biases such as long shot bias and favorite bias. Games related to the provision of information are described. Games may be formulated to exploit biases relating to the Monty Hall paradox. Games related to the provision of information are described. Games may include wagering on hands of cards, e.g., poker wagering games.
US08070594B2	Machine having a card processing assembly A machine having a card processing assembly. The machine has a plurality of card holders connectable to the card processing assembly. One card holder is configured to hold data cards associated with one condition. At least one other card holder is configured to hold data cards associated with another condition.
US08070587B2	Gaming system and method providing a multiplayer bonus game having a plurality of award opportunities A gaming system where, as players play the primary games of the gaming devices, the gaming devices or the players playing at those gaming devices are occasionally provided with game elements associated with a multiplayer bonus game. In one embodiment, when a designated number of the game elements associated with the multiplayer bonus game have been awarded during game play, the multiplayer bonus game is triggered. During the multiplayer bonus game, the gaming system randomly selects a plurality of the game elements and compares the randomly selected game elements with the game elements awarded to the players. The players receive bonus awards based at least in part on the relationship between the awarded game elements and the game elements which are randomly selected during the bonus game.
US08070584B2	Matrix game involving an award based on non-highlighted grid positions In one embodiment, the invention is a secondary game played concurrently with a conventional Keno game. In Keno, a player selects a plurality of numbers (e.g., 4-20) within an M×N grid (e.g., 8×10) of different numbers. A random number generator randomly selects a plurality of numbers (e.g., 20) in the grid. The player is then granted a first award based on matches between numbers that the player selected and the randomly selected numbers. As a secondary game played over the Keno game, for each number randomly selected, all numbers in the same row and column in the grid as the selected number are highlighted on the grid display. The player is granted a second award (e.g., free games) for each number not being in a highlighted row or column at the end of the Keno game. Variations of the secondary game are described.
US08070581B2	Regulated gaming—staging multi-act games Creative multi-act games for the younger generation of casino players accustomed to creative simulation games such as “The Sims®” and familiar TV characters such as the cast of “Friends.” Stories unfold through acts that have been staged by the player by selecting and placing acting objects. A palette of betting opportunities may be provided in each act in accordance with the staged act to allow the player(s) to place bets. A typical storyboard may include three acts: (a) a construction act, (b) a testing act and (c) a destruction or resolution act. The unfolding of acts may be non-linear and several players may participate simultaneously, sharing the opportunity to affect a storyboard's direction through decision-making.
US08070578B2	Central determination gaming system with a central controller providing a game outcome and a gaming terminal determining a presentation of the provided game outcome A central determination gaming system with a central controller providing a game outcome to an individual gaming terminal and the gaming terminal determining the presentation of the provided game outcome. In one embodiment of the present invention, a gaming terminal receives a predetermined game outcome from a central controller. The gaming terminal determines a game outcome presentation, (i.e., how the game outcome is displayed or presented to the player) for the provided game outcome by selecting a game outcome presentation seed for the received game outcome. The gaming terminal utilizes the selected game outcome presentation seed to determine a game outcome presentation. The determined game outcome presentation is displayed to the player and the received game outcome is provided to the player.
US08070576B2	Gaming machine with bank credit meter A gaining machine (10) has a display (14) and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display (14). The game controller is arranged to play a game wherein one or more random events are caused to be displayed on the display (14) and, if a predefined winning event results, the machine (10) awards a prize which is credited to a credit meter of the machine (10). The credit meter includes two meter displays, a first meter display (42.1) indicating credit which is available for expenditure in the machine (10) to play at least one game and a second meter display (42.2) indicating credit set aside by at least one of a player and the game controller and which credit is unavailable to the player for wagering on a game but which is only available by termination of a playing session.
US08070572B2	Fishing simulation method, fishing simulation execution method, and fishing simulator The present invention relates to a fishing simulation method, a fishing simulation execution method, and a fishing simulator, and more specifically, to a fishing simulation method, a fishing simulation execution method, and a fishing simulator, in which a fishing activity procedure of detecting a fish school, gathering fish, and catching the fish can be realized in a three-dimensional virtual space of a computer, and a fishery environment and fishing activity simulated in the computer virtual space comes to be similar to a real fishery environment and fishing activity by simulating the behavior of the fish school, including an avoidance behavior of fish entities forming the fish school, responding to the movement of a fishing boat and a fishing gear, thereby enhancing learning effects on the fishery environment and the fishing activity.
US08070570B2	Spreader disk assembly convertible for windrowing A spreader disk assembly for spreading crop residue such as straw discharged from an agricultural harvesting machine, and more particularly, which has a bat support mechanism that enables the bats to be quickly and easily hingedly or pivotally convertible from a deployed spreading mode to a flattened stowed mode for windrowing, which does not require removal of the bats, or the disk from the spreader. A locking mechanism is provided that enables the quick and easy conversion and securely holds the bats in both modes.
US08070562B1	Granite finishing tools A polishing stand for supporting a slab of solid material comprises a plurality of vertical supports, a horizontal platform attached to the vertical supports, and at least one clamp member attached to the horizontal platform, the clamp member comprising a vertical section that is coupled to the horizontal platform and horizontally adjustable to clamp a slab. A sink installation tool features an elongated connecting rod, a clamp head mounted to a first end of the connecting rod, and a flip foot mounted to a second end of said connecting rod. The flip foot is movable between a first position substantially parallel to the connecting rod, so that the flip foot may be inserted through the drain hole of a sink, and a second a second position where the flip foot is nonparallel to the connecting rod to engage a bottom surface of the sink.
US08070559B1	Zr-rich bulk amorphous alloy article and method of surface grinding thereof A method of surface grinding a Zr-rich bulk amorphous alloy article includes providing a substrate; providing a first surface grinder for rough surface grinding; and providing a second surface grinder for finish surface grinding. During the rough surface grinding, the rotating speed is in the range from 20 r/min to 30 r/min, the grinding time period is from 3 minutes to 12 minutes, and the grinding pressure is from 1 kg/cm2 to 2 kg/cm2, and a first pump circularly conveys a first lubricant to a first rotating abrasive wheel. During the finish surface grinding, the rotating speed is in the range from 30 r/min to 40 r/min, the grinding time period is from 5 minutes to 7 minutes, and the grinding pressure is from 1 kg/cm2 to 2 kg/cm2, and a second pump circularly conveys a second lubricant to a second rotating abrasive wheel.
US08070557B2	Method of polishing glass substrate An object of the present invention is to provide a polishing method for diminishing concave defects of a glass substrate used in a reflective mask for EUVL and the like. The invention relates to a method of polishing a glass substrate which comprises polishing a major surface of the glass substrate while feeding a polishing slurry between the glass substrate and a pad surface of a polishing pad, wherein the polishing load of the polishing pad is from 1 to 60 g/cm2. The pad surface of the polishing pact is preferably dressing-processed.
US08070556B2	Grinding wheel for roll grinding and method of roll grinding A method of grinding a ferrous roll may include: rotating a grinding wheel on a machine spindle to form a rotating grinding wheel; rotating a ferrous roll to form a rotating roll surface; bringing the rotating grinding wheel into contact with the rotating roll surface; traversing the rotating grinding wheel across an axial roll length of the rotating roll surface; and grinding the roll surface while varying at least one or both of a grinding wheel rotational speed and a said mill roll rotational speed at an amplitude of +/−1 to 40% with a period of 1 to 30 seconds.
US08070555B2	Visual feedback for airfoil polishing A visual feedback system and method for airfoil polishing is disclosed. In one aspect there is a system for providing visual feedback during a polishing operation of a workpiece. In this system there is a model having a representation of a desired shape of the workpiece. A scanning system generates a representation of a current shape of the workpiece while in-process during the polishing operation. A comparator compares the current shape of the workpiece to the desired shape of the workpiece. An illumination system highlights the workpiece with visible light during the polishing operation. The highlighting of the workpiece with visible light is a function of the comparison between the current shape and the desired shape. The illumination system highlights a portion of the workpiece that needs additional polishing to conform to the desired shape.
US08070553B2	Doll with photographic image A doll arranged to depict a person realistically. A first image of a person such as a photograph is ultimately transferred to a flexible substrate such as a fabric sheet. The substrate is cut or trimmed generally to configuration of a human body. The substrate is joined to a corresponding rear substrate, thereby forming an outer shell having an open interior. The interior may be stuffed with soft material. The outer shell is then sealed to preclude escape of stuffing material. Optionally, the rear substrate may bear a second image such as that of the rear of the person furnishing the first image. The doll may range in size from very small to full body dimensions or may be even larger.
US08070551B1	Slotted rod for a construction toy A slotted rod for a construction toy is comprised of an elongated rod member having a body portion with a length that is substantially longer than the thickness. A conventional connector is located at each end of said rod member for connection to a hub member or to another rod member for constructing a structure utilizing the construction toy system. The rod includes a plurality of elongated slots arranged around the periphery with each slot extending axially along the length thereof. Each slot is capable of allowing a piece of sheet-like material to pass therethrough. The slots may be formed directly in the body portion of the rod member or in a sleeve that slides over and covers the body portion. In one embodiment, the slot has an opening at one end thereof whereby the sheet-like material can be inserted into the slot by moving it axially into position.
US08070548B2	Method for making thermal electron emitter A method for making the thermal electron emitter includes following steps. Providing a carbon nanotube film including a plurality of carbon nanotubes. Treating the carbon nanotube film with a solution comprising of a solvent and compound or a precursor of a compound, wherein the compound and the compound that is the basis of the precursor of a compound has a work function that is lower than the carbon nanotubes. Twisting the treated carbon nanotube film to form a carbon nanotube twisted wire. Drying the carbon nanotube twisted wire. Activating the carbon nanotube twisted wire.
US08070542B2	Engine exhaust bypass system for ocean vessel A primary exhaust bypass for a water-borne vessel having a seat member and a closure member coupled to the seat member, wherein the seat and closure members are configured to seal against exhaust leakage in the closed position and to allow exhaust leakage in the opened condition, and a locking mechanism, wherein the bypass is configured to open when the vessel lists a predetermined amount. A method of bypassing a blocked primary exhaust system may include establishing a bypass exhaust route, providing a normally-closed bypass mechanism at a distal portion of the bypass exhaust route, and changing the orientation of the bypass mechanism with respect to gravity, which may allow the bypass mechanism to open.
US08070537B2	Pad and method of assembly the same to connector A pad includes a retaining portion and a soldering portion. The retaining portion has a through hole running therethrough in a thickness direction of the metal sheet and four side edges perpendicular to the metal sheet. The soldering portion extends from a first side edge of the retaining portion. The whole of the pad is electroplated except two opposite third and forth side edges of the retaining portion which connect with opposite ends of the first side edge.
US08070531B1	Keystone jack A keystone jack (10) includes a cover body (1), a lining body (2), a carrier body (3), a printed circuit board (4), a housing (5), and a flap (6). The cover body (1) includes a space (11). The space (11) includes a cruciform partition with an elongated partition plate (13) perpendicular interlaced a short partition plate (14). The lining body (2) has two edges (21). A connection part (22) is between the two edges (21). A stud (23) and a separation plate (24) are between the connection part (22) and the two edges (21). The stud (23) has a first channel (231). The separation plate (24) has a second channel. When the lining body (2) is installed in the space (11), the elongated partition plate (13) and the short partition plate (14) in the space (11) are through the first channel (231), the second channel (242), and the opening (25) to form a double-cross isolation structure. When the keystone jack (10) is used, the electricity is more stable, and the crosstalk interferences are decreasing, and the impedance is more stable, and the electronic signals are not decayed.
US08070530B1	Modular jack A downsized modular jack with high surface-mounting performance. The modular jack has a housing and a terminal holder assembled thereto. The housing has a rear wall formed with a terminal insertion through-hole extending through a thickness of the rear wall, and a latch section insertion through-hole positioned beside the terminal insertion through-hole. The latch section insertion through-hole has an engaged portion positioned within the thickness of the rear wall. The terminal holder has a connector terminal extending through the terminal insertion through-hole and a latch section engaged with the engaged portion and positioned within the thickness of the rear wall upon assembly of the terminal holder into the housing.
US08070524B2	Electric plug device for extending and replacing a malfunctioning female power outlet An electric plug device and a method for extending and replacing a malfunctioning female power outlet are provided. The electric plug device comprises a mains plug, an extension cable, and a power extender. The mains plug comprises a male power inlet and multiple first female power outlets. The male power inlet is electrically connected to the first female power outlets and provides an electrical input pathway. The first female power outlets provide electrical output pathways. The malfunctioning female power outlet may be one of the first female power outlets. The extension cable electrically connects the malfunctioning female power outlet to the power extender. The power extender comprises multiple second female power outlets. The malfunctioning female power outlet is connected to the second female power outlets by the extension cable. The extension cable and the power extender enable the extension and the replacement of the malfunctioning female power outlet respectively.
US08070522B2	Adaptor for a router blade An apparatus for connecting a router blade to a router chassis is provided. The apparatus includes an engagement portion; a first side portion coupled with the engagement portion; and a second side portion coupled with the engagement portion. The engagement portion includes a connector system that is operable to couple a router blade with a router chassis. The first side portion is operable to engage the router blade and the router chassis. The second side portion is operable to engage a router blade and the router chassis. The engagement portion, first side portion, and second side portion are sized to engage the router chassis and receive the router blade.
US08070518B2	Connector for capacitor microphone A compression sleeve is combined to a microphone cable. A small-diameter cylindrical portion is compressed on the outer peripheral side of a folded portion of a shielding cable. Thus, the compression sleeve is electrically connected to the shielding cable. A large-diameter cylindrical portion covers a connection portion between a connector and the microphone cable. The large-diameter cylindrical portion and a connector housing are fitted with each other. A bush covers the compression sleeve. Inner periphery of the connector housing is in contacts and presses the outer periphery of the large-diameter cylindrical portion. The large-diameter cylindrical portion has a flange on the outer surface. The flange contacts and presses an end of the connector housing on closer to the microphone cable by the shoulder portion of the bush.
US08070511B1	Hard disk drive (HDD) hot-plugging connector A hot-plugging connector is provided for a hard disk drive (HDD), including an HDD plugging port and a connection port for an SATA cable and a power supply and further includes an HDD plugging indication device having a positive terminal that is supplied with power from a host machine and a negative terminal that is connected to a pin of the connector that is in connection with ah HDD plugging grounding line but is not in direct connection with a grounding line of the host machine. The hot-plugging connector further includes an HDD operation indication device having a positive terminal that is supplied with power from a host machine and a negative terminal that is connected to a pin of the connector that is in connection with an HDD operation grounding line but is not in direct connection with a grounding line of the host computer.
US08070510B2	Connector A connector includes a first housing, a second housing and a releaser. The second housing is attached with the first housing. An accommodating part is provided in the first housing. A first projection is provided in the accommodating part. A detector is accommodated in the accommodating part. A lock portion is provided in the detector and is engaged with the first projection. The releaser releases the lock portion from the first projection when the second housing is attached with the first housing.
US08070509B2	Splice restraint and mating indicator The present invention relates to a splice restraint for use with sleeves that attach to joints. The splice restraint includes a first securing member constructed and arranged to be received in a groove of a first sleeve that is installable on a first leg of a joint, a second securing member constructed and arranged to be received in a groove of a second sleeve that is installable on a second leg of the joint, and a strap connecting the first securing member to the second securing member. The strap having a length determined by the distance between the groove on the first sleeve and the groove on the second sleeve when the first and second sleeves are properly installed on the joint. The splice restraint provides a visual indication that the sleeves are properly installed on the joint, as well ensures that sleeves will not be displaced after the lineman leaves the site.
US08070506B2	Connector for use in terminating communications cables A connector for use in terminating communications cables including electrical contacts (42) arranged to receive wires (30) of a communications cable (60), at least one cover (12, 22) pivotally connected with the connector and having wire-receiving spaces (14, 24), wherein the cover is arranged to move pivotally to bring wires positioned in its wire-receiving spaces into engagement with the contacts (42).
US08070505B2	Electrical connecting device An electrical connecting device is disclosed and includes a printed circuit board, an electrical connector, and a fixing gum. The electrical connector is used for electrically connecting a chip module onto the printed circuit board and has at least one gum positioning portion formed on at least one sidewall thereof. The gum positioning portion is non-coplanar with respect to the sidewall. The fixing gum adheres between and to the recess and the printed circuit board and is also attached in the recess. Because the gum positioning portion of the electrical connector is non-coplanar with respect to the sidewall, after the fixing gum is sprayed on the gum positioning portion, the electrical connector is reliably mounted on the printed circuit board to be prevented from falling off under an external force during a reflowing or due to shaking.
US08070503B2	Charging interface for rechargeable devices A novel charging interface for rechargeable devices is disclosed herein. The present charging interface has a male plug, formed from circuit board material, which electrically and slidably interconnects with a female socket in at least two orientations. The female socket has electrically conductive biasing means which retain the male plug within the female socket. The charging interface provides electrical contact between the master circuit board of a rechargeable device and a power source.
US08070500B2	Mobile communications device A mobile communications device comprising: a back cover, which comprises an inner surface and a sidewall. A hatch is formed in the sidewall. An ejection device is fixed to the inner surface of the back cover, and which comprises a resilient wall protruding from the surface of the ejection device, and an electromagnet. A groove member is slidably connected to the ejection device, and is aligned with the hatch, and is configured for putting SIM card. The groove member further defines a hole. A hook device is rotatably connected to the ejection device, and is positioned on the electromagnet, and which comprises a hook portion. A first elastic device is fixed to the groove member, and is configured for pushing the groove to move. A torsion spring is fixed to the ejection device, and is configured for driving the hook device to return to the first position.
US08070498B2	Contact and electrical connector having such contact The present invention relates to a contact and an electrical connector having such contacts. The contact is formed as a single piece of elastic metal sheet and includes a base frame and a spring arm restrained by the base frame in a preload state. The base frame includes two side walls each having a stopper projection formed in a plane within which a corresponding side wall is disposed. The spring arm is formed with opposite projections which are pressed down and constrained in position by the stopper projections respectively. The contact can be manufactured in a simple way and presents a high reliability.
US08070495B2	Electrical connector assembly and back plate arrangement thereof An electrical connector assembly (1) mounted on a printed circuit board (4) includes at least two electrical connectors (2) located on one side of the printed circuit board (4) and a back plate arrangement (3) located on the other side of the printed circuit board (4) opposite to the electrical connectors (2). The back plate arrangement (3) secures the electrical connectors (2) onto the printed circuit board (4), and includes at least two back plates (30) and at least one connecting bridge (31) interconnecting the at lest two back plates (30).
US08070493B2	Measurement system apparatus and method of teaching units of measurement A measurement system apparatus is provided, which includes an elongated bar and a plurality of discrete measurement unit pieces received along the bar. The elongated bar is metered in accordance with a measurement system. Each measurement unit piece represents an incremental unit of the measurement system. A method is also provided for instructing a student as to a measurement system which generally includes the steps of providing an elongated bar, with the bar being metered along its length to reflect incremental units of a measurement system, providing a plurality of measurement unit pieces corresponding to the metered incremental units of the measurement system, and placing selected measurement unit pieces along the elongated bar.
US08070492B1	Reading tool with display window for teaching eye tracking A device that assists students in reading by using an opaque sheet to cover an entire page. The sheet has a “window” slot in the center that highlights a single line on the page. The device also has a curved slider that is pivotably attached at the top of the sheet. The placement of the pivot point and the shape of the curved member are such that in the initial position, the entire slot is covered. The student moves the curved slider letter by letter until syllables and words are exposed. As letters, syllables and words are exposed, the student reads them. At no time is the student distracted by other text on the page or the remaining words on the line. Once the line has been mastered, the slider can be returned to the initial position and the sheet slid down to the next line to repeat the process.
US08070490B1	Teeth separating apparatus An apparatus for separating teeth utilizing a base member having a first end portion, a second end portion, and an intermediate portion. A first spring extends outwardly from the first end portion while a second spring extends outwardly from the second portion of the base member. A lingual shield spans the distal portions of the first and second springs extending from the base member. A pair of tines overlap one another, one tine extending from the base member, the other extending from the shield. The first and second springs urge the meeting or overlapping of the first and second tines in the vicinity of gap for meeting place between a pair of teeth.
US08070489B2	Integrated modular dental measuring apparatus and method for dentures An integrated modular dental measuring apparatus and method of use for producing edentulous dentures, each including a lower dental tray having a removable modular contact plate with an upwardly extending shoulder surrounding a tapered opening, a ball nut retained in the tapered opening, and a post adjustably secured to the ball nut. A modular striking plate may be removably attached to an upper dental tray or an integrated striking sector on a bottom surface of the upper dental tray is utilized to accurately obtain an established occlusal vertical and centric relation positions. The contact plate and striking plate are each configured as snap-in components to the respective trays. Additionally, the contact plate may be utilized as a spacer between the dental trays once the post and ball nut are removed. Finally, the contact plate and striking plate may be removed for functional positioning and esthetic blue printing measurements.
US08070486B2	Method and apparatus for indirect bonding of orthodontic appliances to teeth A method of indirect bonding and a physical model that allows for optimal positional alignment of orthodontic appliances on a patient's teeth is disclosed. The physical model of the patient's teeth has pods and ridges on the facial surface of the teeth. Adhesive is applied to an orthodontic appliance and the appliance is placed on a tooth of the physical model against the ridge and on top of the pods. The adhesive fills the space in between the appliance and the facial surface of the tooth and adheres to the model, resulting in a dimensionally correct custom base that is properly aligned with the tooth to account for all five positional elements of a tooth. Once all the orthodontic appliances are applied to the model, the appliances can then be removed from the model and bonded to the patient's teeth in the optimal position using a transfer template.
US08070485B2	Notched pontic and system for fabricating dental appliance for use therewith A pontic (10) having a prefabricated notch, channel or slot (11) to physically engage and ensure a secure mechanical lock with the dental appliance (30). The invention also pertains to a method of fabricating a dental appliance (30) and a kit for facilitating the same. The invention has particular application to thermoformed, removable appliances.
US08070482B2	Combustion control system of detection and analysis of gas or fuel oil flames using optical devices A system of detection and analysis of gas or fuel oil flames using optical devices, consisting of a sensor that targets the flame's reaction zone through an optical access, a processing and control module, and an actuator, responsible for controlling the damper. The system optimizes combustion equipment operation by controlling the damper, obtaining better performance and reducing polluting emissions.
US08070479B2	Injection mold device An injection mold device includes: a stationary mold plate including a stationary mold body, a protrusion, and a sprue having a sprue open end; a movable mold plate formed with a first forming part; and a stripper plate including a stripper mold body, a recess, a second forming part, and a plurality of runners. When the stationary mold plate, the movable mold plate, and the stripper plate are assembled, the protrusion is received within the recess such that the sprue open end is in fluid communication with the runners, and the first forming part and the second forming part form a mold cavity.
US08070478B2	Mould with an integrated injector The present invention relates to a mould, in which a completely closed cavity can be formed in one operating state, comprising an injector (10) which is at least partially accommodated in the mould (14) and the discharge opening of which opens into the closed cavity. According to the invention, the injector is designed with a material feed duct (30) and a material return duct (34), wherein the two ducts (30, 34) open into a connecting chamber (32) in the region of the tip of the injector (10) and are flow-connected to one another via said connecting chamber (32). In this case, an injector needle (36) can be switched into at least two operating positions, wherein, in one moved-forward operating position, the discharge opening is closed by means of the tip (38) of the injector needle (36) and, in the other, pulled-back operating position, the discharge opening is flow-connected to the connecting chamber, and the injector (10) is therefore open.
US08070474B2	Lamination shaping apparatus A lamination shaping apparatus has a powder layer preparing means and an optical unit which irradiates a light beam to an intended portion of a powder layer so as to sinter or melt for solidifying the portion into a cured layer. Preparation of the powder layer and curing of the cured layer are repeated to fabricate a three-dimensional object in which a plurality of the cured layers are laminated and integrated. The apparatus includes a fixed base carrying thereon the powder layer and the cured layer, an elevator frame surrounding a periphery of the fixed base, and driving means for driving the elevator frame to move vertically. The powder layer is formed within a space above the base and surrounded by an interior surface of the elevator fame such that the powder layer (cured layer) can be stacked on the base with the base being kept at a fixed position, thereby facilitating to fabricate a precisely shaped object.
US08070472B2	Apparatus for rolling and forming food dough An apparatus for rolling and forming a food dough includes: a rolling roller configured to roll out a block of food dough placed on a table; and a frame unit having an inner circumferential surface configured to face the rolling roller. The rolling roller is configured to revolve around a revolving axis, and rotate around a rotation axis of the rolling roller. The rolling roller includes a first portion having a substantially conical or frustum shape extending in a rotation axial direction. The frame unit is provided outside of a revolving locus of the first portion of the rolling roller. The inner circumferential surface of the frame unit includes an upper side portion and a lower side portion that is farther from the revolving axis than the upper side portion with respect to the revolving radial direction.
US08070471B2	Gravity injection of molding material for compression molding and related methods A molding apparatus includes a bottom platen, a bottom mold portion carried by the bottom platen, and a top platen overlying the bottom platen and the bottom mold portion. The top platen includes slots extending therethrough for receiving a molding material. The molding material is to be gravity deposited into the bottom mold portion. A top mold portion is carried by the top platen and is moveable between a molding material loading position and an article forming position. An actuator is coupled to the top mold portion for moving the top mold portion between the molding material loading position and the article forming position. The molding material loading position corresponds to when the top mold portion is non-overlying the bottom mold portion so that the molding material can be gravity deposited therein. The article forming position corresponds to when the top mold portion is overlying the bottom mold portion for molding an article.
US08070470B2	Mold assembly A mold assembly has two mold half shells each having an outer and inner wall for defining the shape of a container to be formed. Two mold half carriers each have an inner wall overlaying and spaced from a corresponding mold shell outer wall for supporting the shells in the assembly. At least one insulating pad is sandwiched between the inner wall and the corresponding outer wall and is secured to one of the inner wall and the outer wall. The pad supports the outer wall in non-contacting and buffering relation relative the carrier inner wall. Each pad may be secured in a recessed seat in the respective wall. Pads may be secured in recessed seats having a depth less than the thickness of the pad. Pads absorb mold operational forces to reduce wear, reduce conduction from shell to carrier and facilitate the use of different-sized shells with one carrier.
US08070467B2	Polymer microspheres/nanospheres and encapsulating therapeutic proteins therein This invention is an improved process to formulate polymeric microspheres/nanospheres and encapsulate therapeutic proteins or other useful substances, and a polymer sphere apparatus. The invention is also methods of purifying protein-containing-polymeric-microspheres from unused polymer, and an apparatus therefore.
US08070464B2	Retention system While ceramic materials possess properties that make them suitable for use in fuel system components, they tend to be susceptible to failure when exposed to tensile stresses. The retention system described herein helps to reduce the tensile stresses experienced by a retained member by providing a retained member with an engagement structure, a multi-piece retention ring that engages the engagement structure, a resilient member coupled to the retention ring, and a retainer coupled around at least a portion of the retention ring and resilient member and spaced apart from the retention ring and/or resilient member by a gap. The retained member, retention ring, resilient member, and retainer are configured so that the retention ring is moveable in an axial direction relative to the retained member and so that the movement of the retention ring acts to expand the resilient member against the bias provided by the resilient member.
US08070463B2	Rotary reciprocating intensified hydraulic actuator This invention relates generally to a pneumatic, hydraulic or other media driver, rotating-reciprocating cylinder apparatus to be mounted on the proximal end of CNC lathe spindles, vertical or inverted machining centers, hydraulic machining work cells or rotary transfer machines to actuate work holding chucks, work holding fixtures, clamping apparatus or work supports on the distal end of said spindles. More specifically, this invention relates to an actuating system with the capability of boosting the input hydraulic pressure to the holding device by a pre-set multiple up to 5000 psi where the boost pump is integral to and rotates with the clamp cylinder assembly.
US08070460B2	Oil pump used in a linear compressor The present invention discloses an oil supply apparatus of a linear compressor. In the linear compressor including a main body frame, a cylinder installed on the main body frame, and a piston installed inside the cylinder, for performing linear reciprocation, the oil supply apparatus circulates the oil between the cylinder and the piston. The oil supply apparatus of the linear compressor includes an oil supply passage for supplying the oil to a gap between the cylinder and the piston, and an oil pumping means consisting of an oil cylinder fixed to the main body frame to communicate with the oil supply passage, a mass member installed in the oil cylinder and linearly reciprocated by vibration of the main body frame, for pumping the oil, and oil elastic members installed in the oil cylinder, for elastically supporting the mass member at both sides of the mass member. A mass of the mass member and elastic moduli of the oil elastic members are set so that a natural frequency by the mass of the mass member and the elastic moduli of the oil elastic members can be smaller than an operating frequency of the main body frame.
US08070459B2	Pressure control method The present invention relates to a method of setting the pressure in a chamber of a vacuum system to a required pressure, the system comprising a pressure control system including a pump for evacuating gas from the chamber and a flow controller for allowing the flow of gas into the chamber, the method comprising setting an initial flow into and/or out of the chamber for achieving a pressure above the required pressure so as to increase the rate of pressure increase, the initial flow occurring over a transient period which does not allow the pressure to exceed the required pressure, and setting a preset flow into and/or out of the chamber after the transient period has elapsed for achieving and maintaining the required pressure.
US08070458B2	Pump apparatus and method Pump apparatus and method. The pump can include a valve assembly and a diaphragm. In some embodiments, the diaphragm can include a convolute that can deform in order to increase a volume of a pumping chamber to provide an internal fluid bypass when a pressure in the pumping chamber exceeds a bypass pressure. In some embodiments, the pump can include a fluid reservoir at least partially defined by a wall with a flow-restrictive conduit in fluid communication with an outlet chamber. A shut-off switch can include an actuator in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir and the flow-restrictive conduit can substantially isolate the shut-off switch from pressure pulses in the outlet chamber.
US08070453B1	Centrifugal impeller having forward and reverse flow paths A centrifugal impeller having an inlet and a plurality of outlets, the outlets including at least one outlet in a forward direction of the impeller and at least one outlet in a rearward direction of the impeller. A flow path distance of the outlet in the forward direction can be greater than a flow path distance of the outlet in the rearward direction in order to provide a greater pressure in the outlet having the greater flow path distance. In another embodiment, the flow path volume in the forward direction can be greater than the flow path volume in the rearward direction in order to provide a greater flow volume in the forward direction. In another embodiment, the number of flow paths in the forward direction can be greater than the number of flow paths in the rearward direction in order to provide a greater flow volume in the forward direction. The impeller is also used in a gas turbine engine in which the impeller also includes a turbine blade, and the forward directing outlets deliver compressed air to a combustor while the rearward directed outlets bypass the combustor.
US08070450B1	High temperature turbine rotor blade A turbine rotor blade made from the spar and shell construction in which the shell formed from a plurality of shell segments each being a thin wall shell segment made from a high temperature resistant material that is formed by a wire EDM process, and where the shell segments are each secured to the spar separately using a retainer that is poured into retainer occupying spaces formed in the shell segments and the spar, and then hardened to form a rigid retainer to secure each shell segment to the spar individually. The spar includes a number of radial extending projections each with a row of cavities that form the retainer occupying spaces in order to spread the loads around. The retainer can be a bicast material, a transient liquid phase bonding material, or a sintered metal. An old shell can be easily removed and replaced with a new shell by removing parts of the retainer and re-pouring a new retainer with a new shell in place.
US08070449B2	Wind turbine A vertical-axis wind turbine for use with an electrical generator for producing power by converting the energy of wind currents into mechanical rotational energy which is then used to operate the electrical generator. In an embodiment, a rotor is responsive to wind currents by imparting rotation upon a central vertical shaft. Preferably, the rotor is designed with functional curved surfaces for efficient operation.
US08070445B2	Balancing system for turbomachine rotor The present invention relates to a turbomachine rotor balancing system comprising a balancing flange (52) provided with through-passageways (78), the system further comprising balance weights (54) each mounted fixedly on the flange (52) by means of a first and a second screw/nut assembly (56a, 56b) having a first and a second screw (84, 84) passing through a first and a second passageway (78, 78). According to the invention, said first screw is pressing against a first tangential end side (116) of the first through-passageway, and at a distance from a second tangential end side, and the second screw is pressing against a second tangential end side (118) of the second through-passageway, and at a distance from the first tangential end side.
US08070443B1	Turbine blade with leading edge cooling A turbine rotor blade with a leading edge region cooled by a series of impingement cooling cavities that repeats from near the platform to the blade tip to provide impingement cooling for the leading edge without a loss of cooling air flow volume. A cooling supply cavity delivers cooling air to a series of impingement cavities located on the pressure side, the leading edge and the suction side of the airfoil in a series flow. The spent cooling air from the series then flows up into the next series of impingement cavities to provide impingement cooling to the next section of the leading edge. The cooling air flows through multiple series of impingement cooling cavities until the blade tip, which then discharges the spent impingement cooling air through tip cooling holes.
US08070440B2	Cooling channel formed in a wall A wall element having at least one cooling channel formed therein, the wall element presenting an inside surface and an outside surface, the channel comprising a hole and a diffusion portion, the hole opening out at one end in the inside surface, and at the other end in a diffusion portion where it forms an orifice, the diffusion portion flaring around said orifice and being defined by a bottom wall and a side margin. Said bottom wall presents a first plane portion into which the hole opens out, and a second plane portion situated in front of the first plane portion, said first and second plane portions being inclined in the thickness of the wall. The oriented angle of inclination of said first plane portion is less than the positive oriented angle of inclination of said second plane portion.
US08070432B2	Static gas turbine component and method for repairing such a component A static gas turbine component includes an inner and an outer annular support member and a plurality of circumferentially spaced radial struts arranged between the support members for transmitting structural loads. Each of a plurality of the struts includes a load carrying core rigidly fixed to both the inner and the outer support member forming a unitary carcass with the support members, an impact resistant shell surrounding the core, and an energy absorbing material arranged between the core and the shell.
US08070426B2	System, method and apparatus for open impeller and diffuser assembly for multi-stage submersible pump A multi-stage submersible pump uses impellers having only one shroud to provide stages with shorter stack lengths to allow more stages per housing and more head pressure per housing. The impellers are biased with wave springs to keep the rotating impeller vanes close to the mating diffusers. The entire stack of impellers is assembled in contact with each other using the wave springs and are always under axial load. The wave springs also take up any tolerance variations in the stack to keep the impellers in proper running position. To keep the impellers in their proper locations, thrust washers formed from hard materials are used between adjacent impellers to avoid erosion thereof.
US08070424B2	Flow control arrangement Provision of flow control arrangements which can be switched from high flow restriction to low flow restriction or vice versa are desirable. It is known to use switched vortex valves comprising a vortex chamber having a diverter portion which jets a through flow into either radial presentation to an outlet or tangential presentation with differential flow restrictions. Typically deflection is through cross flows presented from control ports as determined by mechanically actuated and controlled valves. Sensors are required to determine pressure differentials in order to actuate these moving part valves. By providing association between the control ports and an outlet path along with appropriate configuration and sizing of the flow regulators switching states can be provided through the cross flows presented via the flow regulators between the high and low through flow restriction. The flow regulators generally comprise orifice restrictors, diffusers/venturi arrangements or vortex throttles.
US08070423B2	Fan air flow measurement system A fan air flow measurement sensor comprising a housing having a sensor cap, a thermistor pair disposed within the housing, each thermistor projecting through the sensor cap a predetermined distance above the sensor cap, a flange extending normally from the housing, the flange engagable with a mounting surface, a sensor circuit comprising a multiplexer for controlling each thermistor, and for measuring a condition of each thermistor, and for receiving and transmitting signals, and a cable for connecting the sensor to a multiplexing circuit.
US08070422B1	Turbine stator vane and rotor blade arrangement A turbine rotor blade and stator vane assembly in which the rotor blades include a cooling air discharge slot formed within the blade platform to discharge cooling air toward a surface of the adjacent vane to prevent formation of a vortex flow over the region of the vane where the vane airfoil and the inner endwall merges around the fillet. The rotor blade includes a row of exit holes to discharge cooling air from an impingement cavity to provide cooling for the trailing edge. The platform injection cooling air ejection slot is connected to the impingement cavity and provides cooling for the platform and injection of cooling air to break down the formation of the vortex on the vane endwall region.
US08070415B2	Method and apparatus for unloading containers A rear loading cargo carrying wheeled vehicle includes a pair of container lifts for moving shipping containers between a container support platform on the vehicle and an unloaded position behind the vehicle. Each lift typically includes a pivot arm pivotally mounted on the vehicle, a telescoping arm telescopically mounted on the pivot arm, and a container engaging support member mounted on the telescoping arm for engaging and supporting the containers. A platform lift is provided for lowering the platform during the loading operation to provide greater stability. The container support platform includes a forward section and tail section which is movable relative to the forward section to provide greater clearance for loading and unloading the container. Guide walls along either side of the platform guide misaligned containers onto the platform. The container lifts are configured for loading and unloading one or more containers onto and from the platform.
US08070413B2	Control system for a load handling apparatus A control system for a machine which includes a load handling apparatus for moving a load relative to a body of the machine. The machine includes a pivot about which a tipping moment is produced by the load. The load handling apparatus includes an actuator capable of moving the load to a position at which the tipping moment is at a threshold value. The control system is responsive to a tipping moment sensor to control operation of the actuator to progressively reduce the speed of movement of the load as the threshold value of the tipping moment is approached.
US08070410B2	Scalable stocker with automatic handling buffer Scalable storage can be achieved with linear array storage of wafers, comprising two linear arrays of storage compartments on opposite walls, with a middle transfer mechanism. Together with a buffer station for automatic material handling system, a scalable bare wafer stocker can provide flexible and uninterrupted services to a fabrication facility.
US08070404B1	Bonding fastener assembly for electrical grounding A fastener assembly comprising a fastener with a head having a first surface and second surface, and a shaft extending from the second surface of the head. An annular washer is rotatably disposed about the shaft and rotatable relative to the second surface of the fastener head. The washer has an inner diameter, an outer diameter, a first surface and a second, the first surface being positioned adjacent to the second surface of the head. A plurality of identical conical projections extend out from the second surface of the washer and are formed integrally therewith.
US08070403B2	Screw with breakaway and methods of using the same A fastener with a breakaway and methods of using the same. In one embodiment the fastener is a screw having a head and elongated stem, adapted to be easily manipulated by a user when using the screw as a fastener in a hinge or joint. A means of holding a screw by providing a breakaway tab or non-threaded second portion of the elongated stem which can be used to align and insert the screw into a screw hole in the process of engaging threads in the screw hole with threads of the screw. After engaging the threads in the screw hole, such as after the screw has been essentially completely inserted into the screw hole, the breakaway tab or non-threaded second portion of the elongated stem of the screw may be broken off at a breakaway and discarded.
US08070396B2	Broach tool and a broach insert A broach tool and a broach insert for chip removing machining of metals are provided. The broach tool includes an elongate holder and at least one cutting unit. The holder comprises at least one recess for the receipt of the cutting unit. The broach tool has a feeding direction. The broach tool includes clamping members for each cutting unit. Each clamping member is arranged in front of the cutting unit in the feeding direction. The cutting unit is a replaceable broach insert including a base part and a cutting part. A notch is formed centrally in a rear side surface of the broach insert. The recess includes a rear wall formed with a projection, the cross section of which is U-shaped and includes arms. The arms are arranged to be elastically deformed by the notch.
US08070393B2	Interlocking retainer ties A retainer tie system 10 and method including a wall tie 120 having on the lower side 126 of the wall tie 120 triangular-shaped grooves 140, and a lip 150; a block tie 220 including a first and a second ridge 240, 242 on the upper side 224 of the block tie 220 such that the block tie 220 may fit across a deadman tie 320; and the deadman tie 320 including triangular-shaped tongues 340 on the upper side 120 of the deadman tie 320 for assembling a straight, concave, or convex interlocking retainer wall; and a forward and an aft ridge 350, 352 disposed on the upper side 324 of the deadman tie 320 for interlocking the deadman tie 320 with the block tie 220.
US08070391B2	Systems and methods for handling piles A pile driving system for driving a pile comprising a support system comprising an arm assembly, an engaging system comprising a primary housing and a secondary housing, a suspension system, a vibratory system, and first and second clamp assemblies. The first clamp assembly rigidly connects the secondary housing to the pile. The second clamp assembly rigidly connects the secondary housing to the pile. The second clamp assembly rigidly connects the secondary housing to the side portion of the pile. The tip portion of the at least one pick member engages at least one sheet pile of a substantially horizontal stack of sheet piles to remove the at least one sheet pile from the stack of sheet piles. The pile driving system drives the pile using at least one of a driving force generated by the support system and a vibrational force generated by the vibratory system.
US08070388B2	Structure for transporting, commissioning and decommissioning the elements of a fixed oil platform and methods for implementing such a structure The invention relates to a structure for transporting, installing and dismantling a fixed oil platform provided with framework elements which are substantially formed by a bridge and at least one supporting pillar. The inventive structure comprises a floating U-shaped shell provided with at least three lifting legs adapted for resting upon the bottom of the sea and a shuttle movable along the lifting legs for displacing a platform element. Said shuttle consists of at least three elements each of which is associated with the lifting leg and is provided with mechanical means for driving on the corresponding lifting leg in a manner independent of the shell of the structure and with means for connecting to displaceable framework element. Methods for transporting, installing and dismantling the bridge or the supporting pillar of a fixed offshore oil platform are also disclosed.
US08070379B2	Parking barrier activated by its own electric energy creation The mentioned parking barrier doesn't need a prior electric infrastructure since it creates it for its own use and for the units which are connected to it. When a vehicle comes into contact with the parking barrier unit, the part bearing the weight of the vehicle, the mechanical parts of the parking barrier unit will be set in motion. The motion of the mechanical parts in the parking barrier unit will activate a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. The electrical energy that is created by the device is stored in a storage device. The stored electrical energy will serve to activate the various parts of the parking barrier unit and its parts.
US08070370B2	Gear mechanism and blade drive device A gear mechanism includes a pair of gears including first and second gears overlapped with each other in an axial direction. The first and second gears include first and second tooth portions, respectively. The first tooth portion slightly projects outwardly from the second tooth portion. The first gear is formed with a deformation facilitating portion for facilitating deformation of the first gear in a radial direction.
US08070364B2	Rolling bearing of ceramic and steel engaging parts A roller bearing having two cooperating rolling parts of which one is of ceramic and the other of a steel. The steel part is of such structure and/or material and/or is so produced to cause residual compressive stresses to form beneath the contact surface of the steel part, at least in a load-free state, down to a depth.
US08070363B2	Bearing arrangement A bearing arrangement comprises at least one bearing ring and at least one machine part with which the bearing ring is connected. The bearing arrangement is equipped with a device for detecting relative movement between at least one of the bearing rings and one of the machine parts. To facilitate the measurement of creep between one of the bearing rings and one of the machine parts, the device for detecting relative movement is located in or at the machine part and has a contact element which contacts the bearing ring, wherein a sensor element is arranged in or at the device to detect the relative movement between the device and the contact element.
US08070358B2	System and method for controlling temperature indicators A system and method for controlling a temperature indicator stick includes a housing having an interior configured to receive the temperature indicator stick configured to indicate a predetermined temperature through a physical change or a chemical when exposed to the predetermined temperature. A gear is supported by the housing that extends from beyond an exterior of the housing into the interior of the housing to engage the temperature indicator stick. Accordingly, rotation of the gear from the exterior causes a retraction or advancement of the temperature indicator stick to and from the interior of the housing.
US08070352B2	Vibration exciter A vibration exciter, particularly for a vibration pile driver, comprises at least two axles disposed parallel to one another, as well as at least two imbalance masses, which are attached to one or more of the axles. The relative rotary position of the imbalance masses can be adjusted relative to one another by at least one rotary oscillating motor having a rotor shaft and a stator housing. The rotor shaft is an integral part of one of the axles, and the rotary position of the stator housing relative to the rotor shaft can be changed. The stator housing has at least one closure lid that is at least partially unreleasably coated with a slide alloy, for radial and axial bearing of the rotor shaft. At least one shaft seal is disposed between the rotor shaft and stator housing. The seal is hydraulically biased and provided with a support element.
US08070351B2	Mixing kneader and process for preparing poly(meth)acrylates using the mixing kneader The invention relates to a mixing kneader comprising at least two shafts (2,3) configured as hollow shafts, on whose surfaces kneading bars (4) are disposed on elements (5). The construction of the shafts is selected in such a way that the resonant frequencies of the shafts have a separation of at least 5% from the excitation frequencies. At least one of the shafts is preferably flowed through by a temperature-control medium, the inlet being disposed on one side and the outlet on the other side of the shaft. The mixing kneader preferably comprises at least one orifice above the shafts which is configured as a dome, the dome being closed by a displacer (22). In addition, at least one orifice for product withdrawal is provided, whose orifice cross section is adjustable during operation.
US08070347B1	Lamp assembly of light-emitting diode string light A lamp assembly of LED string light has a lamp module, an inner housing, an outer housing, a lower shell and a lamp cover module. The lamp module has a circuit board and an LED bulb and a set of power lines mounted on the circuit board. The inner housing has two symmetrical and engaged inner cases and a space to receive the lamp module. The outer housing has two symmetrical outer cases assembled together and encloses the inner housing. The lower shell is sleeved around a bottom portion of the inner housing. The lower shell has a multi-step portion formed on a periphery thereof for the lamp cover module to sleeve on the lower shell. Given the aforementioned elements, the lamp assembly of LED string light is easily assembled and highly waterproof and dustproof.
US08070345B2	Light guide plates and backlight module A light guide plate includes a body having a bottom surface and a light output surface opposite to the bottom surface. A reflector is located on the light output surface opposite to the center of the bottom surface. The reflector is a cavity concaved from the light output surface to the inside of the body. A plurality of scattering dots are located on the bottom surface. The scattering dots are arranged in the form of a plurality of concentric circles around the center of the bottom surface. The number of the scattering dots is defined based on a radius of the circle they reside on, and the radius of the circle is greater than or substantially equal to 4 millimeter.
US08070340B2	Light guiding member and linear light source apparatus A light guiding member in a shape of a rod shape comprises a light receiving portion formed on an end thereof in an axial direction thereof, and a knurled recess portion which extends in the axial direction, is formed on a side face thereof, wherein the knurled recess portion has two or more recesses, a side face of each recess in a light receiving portion side is a reflective surface, the reflective surface of at least one of the recesses having a primary reflective surface and a secondary reflective surface.
US08070338B2	Three-mode integrated headlamp A high intensity discharge lamp automotive headlamp system is provided for three different lighting functions. The headlamp system is a single unit that provides for low beam, high beam, and daylight running light (DRL) functions. Two optical components are used to easily and effectively switch between the different modes of operation. The first optical component is a shutter that selectively blocks a portion of the light beam output. Secondly, either a single lens or lens portions can be moved either within the light beam path or into the light beam path to alter the divergence.
US08070337B2	Vehicle lamp A vehicle lamp can include a light source unit including a light guide plate with a light emission surface, and a point or line light source opposed to one end face of the light guide plate. The light guide plate can be made of a transparent plate-like material. A convex projection lens can be configured to focus light emitted from the light source unit and project the light forward in a direction of light illumination. The light guide plate can have a prism array on a rear surface thereof extending with a serrated cross section from the one end face to the opposite end face of the light guide plate, and in a direction parallel with the end face. The prism array can include a plurality of prism surfaces, with each prism surface being obliquely formed so that when light enters the light guide plate from the light source side and impinges thereon, a substantial amount of the light can be totally reflected into small angles of incidence to the emission surface. The projection lens can be disposed such that a focus thereof on a light source unit side is located on the light emission surface of the light guide plate.
US08070334B2	Working machine The work machine has an operator's cab, an engine hood, an exhaust pipe, a first headlight, and a second headlight. The engine hood is disposed in front of the operator's cab. The exhaust pipe projects upwards from the engine hood. The first headlight and the second headlight are provided at a front part of the operator's cab spaced in a lateral direction and disposed so that optical axes of the first and second headlights are mutually intersect but not to overlap with the exhaust pipe when viewed in a top plan view.
US08070332B2	Automatic lighting system with adaptive function An automatic lighting system for a vehicle includes an imaging device, an illumination source and a control. The illumination source is directed generally forwardly with respect to a direction of forward travel of the vehicle. The imaging device captures image data and the control processes the captured image data to detect an object of interest generally forwardly and sidewardly of the vehicle. The control is operable to adjust the illumination source in response to detection of an object of interest. The imaging device may be synchronized with flashing of at least one lighting element of the illumination source to capture image data during a time period that the lighting element is being flashed. The control may adjust the illumination source to direct illumination toward an area encompassing a detected object of interest when the object of interest is detected.
US08070327B1	Display lamp, in particular easily assembled display lamp with hidden light source Display lamp includes a base and a cover having a lower face. A side is provided between the cover and base, and the side, cover, and base define a display volume. A light source on the base directs light at a reflector on lower face of cover, and reflector reflects light from light source downwardly away in a diffuse manner within the display volume. There may be a light housing covering the light source and an oculus in an upper portion of light housing configured for directing light at the reflector. A light guide may be provided adjacent the light source for collimating light emitted from the light source into a column of light directed at the reflector. There may be a support between the cover and base for supporting an article to be displayed in the display volume, and illuminated by reflected light from the reflector.
US08070324B2	Thermal control system for a light-emitting diode fixture A thermal control system for a light-emitting diode comprises a thermistor array thermally coupled to a heat sink. The thermistor array may be disposed within a thermal conductive member. A power supply is electrically connected to the thermistor array. A cooling device is electrically connected in series with the power supply and the thermistor array. The thermistor array is between the power supply and the cooling device. A rheostat may further be electrically connected, in series, between the thermistor array and the cooling device.
US08070322B2	Examination light with readily accessible controls Disclosed herein are examination light embodiments. A light having a frame for holding the light has a frontal support member with first and second lateral sides. Disposed on each first and lateral sides are one or more actuators for controlling functionality of the light. A first and second handle are associated with the first and second lateral sides, respectively. The one or more actuators are located proximate to the first and second handles to enable movement and functionality control of the light that requires the use of only one hand.
US08070321B2	Lighting unit designed to maintain a T3 temperature inside its housing A lighting unit includes a housing, a lamp fixture configured to be coupled to the housing, an element extending from the lamp fixture and configured to be received in the housing, and a sealing member defining an aperture for receiving the element therethrough. A periphery of the aperture forms a fluid-tight seal around the element. In another aspect, a lighting unit includes a housing and an enclosure coupled to the housing and configured to define an interior space, wherein the interior space is sealed from an interior of the housing. In another aspect, a method for sealing a lighting unit includes providing a housing, an enclosure coupled to the housing, and an opening in the housing in communication with the enclosure, placing a seal between the housing and the enclosure, and applying a sealing member to the opening to seal the opening.
US08070320B2	Laser illumination device with adjustable light output A laser illumination device including a body, a head secured to the body, a laser generator accommodated in the head, and a rotatable output adjustment member having a graduated disk and an adjustment disk. The graduated disk defines a circle of graduated sections, at least one of which is exposed out of the head. The adjustment disk includes a plurality of through holes with different sizes, arranged in a circle. The measuring member coupled with the graduated disk rotates relative to the body to align each one of the through holes with the laser generator, to adjust the amount of laser light passing through the one of the through holes.
US08070313B2	Backlight structure including clipping connectors A backlight structure comprises a frame, a circuit board, and a connector. The frame has an opening. The circuit board is located below the frame and has a through hole, wherein the through hole aligns with the opening. The connector passes through the opening and the through hole, protrudes from a surface of the frame, and is electrically connected to the circuit board.
US08070311B2	Solar LED lamp A solar LED lamp for lighting purpose includes a fixing box, a covering member mounted on the fixing box and a plurality of LED modules attached to a bottom of the covering member. The covering member includes a top plate fixed to a top of the fixing box, a solar panel disposed over a top surface of the top plate and a mounting bracket fixed to a bottom of the top plate and located in front of the fixing box. The LED modules are attached to a bottom of the mounting bracket. The solar panel is provided for receiving solar energy and converting the solar energy into electrical energy which is used to activate the LED modules.
US08070310B2	Window lighting system A window lighting system for a building structure curtain wall is provided with a housing sized to be received upon a structural member, with an opening facing the window. A refracting lens is mounted adjacent the opening. A plurality of longitudinally spaced discrete light sources are positioned in the housing, each oriented towards the refracting lens such that the light is conveyed to the refracting lens and subsequently out of the housing opening for illuminating the window. A lighting system is provided with the housing sized to extend along the window upon a cover of a structural member between a pair of sequential structure members. A lighting system cover is supported by the housing for concealing the light source and providing an ornamental appearance similar to that of the cover of the underlying structural member without obfuscating an ornamental appearance of the window and the structure members.
US08070306B2	LED lighting fixture An LED lighting fixture including a housing including a first and second border structures. An LED assembly is secured with respect to the housing to permit air/water-flow over the LED assembly. The LED assembly includes at least one LED-array module mounted at an elongate LED heat sink that extends along the housing and between two heat-sink ends. The heat sink has an LED-module-engaging surface and a heat-transfer surface. One heat-sink end is at the first border structure and the other heat-sink end is at the second border structure. The housing and the heat sink define an air gap permitting air/water-flow to and from the heat sink.
US08070301B2	Multi-lamp projection display apparatus with lamp management A multi-lamp projection display apparatus is provided. The multi-lamp projection display apparatus includes a plurality of detachable lamp boxes each having a lamp used as a light source and a memory; and a control device configured to assign an address of the memory in each of the lamp boxes in accordance with an attaching position of the lamp box and write information into the memory.
US08070300B2	Projection display with a detachable lamp A projection enabling replacement of its lamp with minimum components. The light source lamp section includes a high-pressure discharge lamp and a metal reflector to which the high-pressure discharge lamp is attached. A plurality of engaging portions are provided on an opening rim of the metal reflector, while engaged portions are provided in a lamp housing section of the body of the projection display. The engaged portions are engaged with the engaging portions. By engaging the plurality of engaging portions of the opening rim with the engaged portions of the lamp housing section, the light source lamp section is secured to the lamp housing section of the body.
US08070296B2	Illumination apparatus, display apparatus and projection display apparatus An illumination apparatus includes: a solid-state light source; a Peltier element configured to cool the solid-state light source; a light amount sensor configured to detect an amount of a light emitted from the solid-state light source; a power consumption monitor configured to monitor power consumptions of the solid-state light source and the Peltier element; and a power controller configured to control powers supplied to the solid-state light source and the Peltier element. The power controller controls the powers supplied to the solid-state light source and the Peltier element, on the basis of the light amount detected by the light amount sensor and a sum of the power consumptions of the solid-state light source and the Peltier element.
US08070295B2	Optical projection subsystem A projection subsystem includes a light engine that provides a collection lens, a collimator and at least one solid state light emitter. A projection lens assembly receives the image and provides a projection beam having a luminous flux level. The projection subsystem has a portability efficacy.
US08070294B2	Projector A projector having a first lens array with a plurality of first lenses in a plane substantially orthogonal to an optical axis of the light beam from a light source that divides the light beam into a plurality of partial light beams, a second lens array having a plurality of second lenses corresponding to the plurality of first lenses, and a polarization converter that is disposed on a light beam emitting-side of the first lens array. A focal position in a first direction of the first lens is set in the vicinity of the second lens array in the optical direction of the light beam irradiated from the first lens. A focal position in the second direction of the first lens is set in the vicinity of the polarization converter in the optical direction of the light beam irradiated from the first lens.
US08070293B2	Design-superposing display apparatus and vehicle display unit An object of the present invention is to provide a design-superposing display apparatus for superposing a design above a part of a display surface of a display device. The design-superposing display apparatus includes a design display portion disposed above the display surface for accepting a transmitted light from a rear thereof; a light source disposed outside of the display device for emitting the transmitted light of the design display portion; and a light guide portion extending from the rear of the design display portion toward the light source and guiding the emitted light toward the rear of the design display portion.
US08070291B2	Fundus camera A fundus camera includes an illumination unit which includes an optical element configured to irradiate an eye fundus with visible light from a position conjugate with an anterior eye portion of an eye to be examined, and an imaging unit configured to take an image of the eye fundus with light which is emitted from the illumination unit and reflected from the eye fundus, wherein the illumination unit includes a blue LED chip and a fluorescent member that is excited by light emitted from the blue LED chip and emits fluorescence, and the fluorescent member is irradiated again with a part of the light reflected by the optical element.
US08070290B2	Gonioscope for improved viewing Various embodiments relate to opthalmoscopic devices, systems and methods for viewing the anterior chamber, trabecular meshwork, iris root, scleral spur, and/or related nearby structures in the eye. In some embodiments, devices, systems and/or methods may employ a plurality of gonioscopic optical elements that form a virtual image that can be imaged by a microscope directly in front of a patient (e.g., without tilting the patient's head). Various embodiments described herein may be useful for ophthalmologic diagnoses, treatments, monitoring and/or surgical procedures. Some embodiments include a gonioscopic attachment configured to attach to a conventional gonioscope and redirect light emitted by the gonioscope. Various embodiments described herein can be incorporated into disposable, single-use gonioscopes.
US08070283B2	Image forming apparatus and image forming method The image forming apparatus, comprises: a plurality of ejection heads which eject liquid containing, a first ultraviolet curing initiator having spectral absorption characteristics at least in a first wavelength range, a second ultraviolet curing initiator which has spectral absorption characteristics at least in a second wavelength range being on a shorter wavelength side from the first wavelength range and has no spectral absorption characteristics in the first wavelength range, an ultraviolet-polymerizable compound, and a coloring material, onto a medium; a semi-curing device which radiates, at least once, ultraviolet light having at least a wavelength which is in the first wavelength range and which is on a longer wavelength side from the second wavelength range, onto dots formed by the liquid ejected from the ejection heads onto the medium; an intermediate processing device which performs intermediate processing of an image formed on the medium by the dots; and a main curing device which radiates ultraviolet light having at least a wavelength in the second wavelength range, onto the image which has undergone intermediate processing by the intermediate processing device.
US08070282B2	Active-energy ray curable ink-jet recording apparatus An active-energy ray curable ink-jet recording apparatus includes: an active-energy ray irradiation source; a plurality of full-line ink-jet heads which eject a liquid functional material that is curable by an active-energy ray, onto a recording medium which is scanned and transported; and a head controller for controlling the heads to form an image on the recording medium, wherein the full-line ink-jet heads include: a head arrangement having adjacent combinations of at least one set of colors in a complementary relationship; and active-energy ray irradiation sources which are placed respectively for each of the combinations on downstream sides of the combinations in the scanning transporting direction.
US08070277B2	Ink-jet printer comprising a structure to eliminate ink dripping This invention provides an ink jet assembly that prevents and controls ink drips from upper print heads from contacting the lower print heads or paper in the system. A heated ink drip bib is provided below the ink jet releasing portion of a print head. This ink drip bib directs falling or dripping ink into a drip tray located below each ink bib during the purge cycle. The ink bibs and the drip trays are co-extensive so that any ink being deflected from the ink bib is caught by the ink tray. In one embodiment, the ink bib is angled away from the printing surface to ensure that any solidified ink is separated from an imaging surface.
US08070276B2	Ink jet recording cartridge A cartridge is constituted by a plurality of absorbing materials for retaining liquid, an interface formed by press-contact between opposing surfaces of the absorbing materials, an introducing portion for supplying the liquid out of the absorbing materials, and a filter provided at an end portion of the introducing portion. The absorbing materials press against the filter so that an end portion of the interface reaches the filter.
US08070270B2	Liquid supply apparatus and liquid ejecting apparatus Provided is a liquid supply apparatus including: a liquid supply path which supplies a liquid from an upstream side, which is a liquid supply source, to a downstream side in which the liquid is consumed; a defoaming chamber which is provided in the liquid supply path and defoams air bubbles included in the liquid; and a depressurization chamber which is provided at a position adjacent to the defoaming chamber with a partition wall interposed therebetween and is depressurized such that the pressure thereof becomes lower than the pressure of the defoaming chamber, wherein the partition wall allows permeation of gas by the depressurization of the depressurization chamber and restricts permeation of the liquid, wherein the partition wall has rigidity, and wherein the defoaming chamber is arranged in plurality and at least two of the defoaming chambers overlap with one depressurization chamber in an upper and lower direction.
US08070269B2	Liquid storage apparatus and image forming apparatus The liquid storage apparatus includes: a liquid storage chamber which is constituted by a flexible bag member and stores liquid; an exterior container which has walls constituted by a shape memory member and has a hermetically sealed space in which the liquid storage chamber is disposed, the shape memory member extending and contracting freely at temperatures not greater than a transformation temperature and recovering a memorized shape at temperatures not less than a shape recovery temperature; a forcing member which applies a contraction force to the walls of the exterior container in a direction in which the walls contract; and a temperature adjuster which adjusts a temperature of the shape memory member directly or indirectly so as to control a ratio of a portion of the shape memory member having temperatures not greater than the transformation temperature and deformed to a contracted shape by the contraction force of the forcing member and a ratio of a portion of the shape memory member having temperatures not less than the shape recovery temperature and recovering the memorized shape more extended than the contracted shape, so that a pressure in the liquid storage chamber is changed depending on a volume change of the exterior container due to deformation of the shape memory member.
US08070264B2	Micro-fluid ejection heads with multiple glass layers Methods for fabricating micro-fluid ejection heads and micro-fluid ejection heads are provided herein, such as those that use non-conventional substrates. One such micro-fluid ejection head includes a substrate having first and second glass layers disposed adjacent to a surface thereof and a plurality of fluid ejection actuators disposed adjacent to the second glass layer. The first glass layer is thicker than the second glass layer and the second glass layer has a surface roughness of no greater than about 75 Å Ra.
US08070263B2	Printing head substrate, ink jet printing head and ink jet printing apparatus with substrate temperature detecting element There are provided a printing head substrate, an ink jet printing head and an ink jet printing apparatus, which accurately detect a temperature state in the central part of a heater array on the substrate and restrict an area of the substrate to a minimum. A printing head substrate has a plurality of heating elements, a plurality of ink supply openings, a logic circuit for driving the heating elements; a substrate temperature detecting element for detecting a temperature of the printing head substrate, and input and output pads for carrying out reception and supply of a signal between a printing apparatus, and the logic circuit and the substrate temperature detecting element, wherein a beam integral with the substrate is provided between the plurality of ink supply openings, and the substrate temperature detecting element is arranged on the beam.
US08070262B2	Print element substrate, printhead, and printing apparatus This invention is directed to allow efficiently transferring data to each print element (heater) and efficiently laying out circuits in an element substrate including plural heater arrays in which different numbers of heaters are arranged. This substrate includes: a first array having a relatively large number of heaters; and a second array which is equal in length to the first array and has a relatively small number of heaters. These arrays are juxtaposed. The substrate further includes plural shift registers equal in number to the heater arrays of the substrate. The shift registers include a shift register which holds some data for driving the heaters of the first heater array, and data for driving the heaters of the second heater array. The shift registers further include a shift register which holds data other than some data for driving the heaters of the first heater array.
US08070261B2	Liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus The liquid ejection head comprises: a nozzle from which liquid is ejected; a pressure chamber which accommodates the liquid to be ejected from the nozzle; a pressurizing device which deforms to pressurize the liquid in the pressure chamber to eject the liquid from the nozzle; and a nozzle flow channel through which the pressurized liquid flows from the pressure chamber to the nozzle, the nozzle flow channel having at least a portion in which forces acting toward an axis of the nozzle flow channel onto the liquid flowing inside the nozzle flow channel are not uniform within a cross-section perpendicular to the axis.
US08070259B2	Methods and apparatus for improved ejection head planarity and reduced ejection head damage A micro-fluid ejection head assembly having improved assembly characteristics and methods of manufacturing a micro-fluid ejection head assembly. The micro-fluid ejection head includes a fluid supply body having at least one fluid supply port in a recessed area therein. A reinforcing member circumscribes the fluid supply port. A micro-fluid ejection head is attached with an adhesive to the supply body in the recessed area so that cracking of the ejection head during adhesive curing is substantially reduced.
US08070258B2	Inkjet head An inkjet head is disclosed. The inkjet head, which include a head body, having one side, in which a nozzle is formed to discharge ink; and a protrusion, formed in one side of the head body, spaced from the nozzle, can form a groove on the surface of a printing target in the printing and then discharge ink in the groove, thereby increasing the aspect ratio of a printed line.
US08070257B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a first head having a first nozzle group in which nozzles from which a first liquid is ejected are aligned in a nozzle-row direction at a predetermined pitch and a second nozzle group in which nozzles from which a second liquid is ejected are aligned in the nozzle-row direction at the predetermined pitch, the nozzles in the first nozzle group being positioned between the nozzles in the second nozzle group in the nozzle-row direction; a second head having a third nozzle group in which nozzles from which the first liquid is ejected are aligned in the nozzle-row direction at the predetermined pitch and a fourth nozzle group in which nozzles from which the second liquid is ejected are aligned in the nozzle-row direction at the predetermined pitch, the nozzles in the third nozzle group being positioned between the nozzles in the fourth nozzle group in the nozzle-row direction; and a moving mechanism that moves the first head and the second head relative to a medium in a direction intersecting the nozzle-row direction. In the nozzle-row direction, the nozzles in the third nozzle group are positioned between the nozzles in the first nozzle group, and the nozzles in the fourth nozzle group are positioned between the nozzles in the second nozzle group.
US08070253B2	Head cleaning method for an inkjet printer and an inkjet printer An inkjet printer and a head cleaning method for an inkjet printer reduce the time required for head cleaning while also reducing needless ink consumption. The control unit 30 of the printer 1 confirms if a timer AID flag, impact detection flag, startup process flag, AID hold flag, or cover closed flag is set before executing the cleaning process a first time. If any one of the flags is set, the possibility that there are numerous defective nozzles in the printer 1 is high, and a stronger or more intense cleaning process (CL1 or CL2) is executed. Whether cleaning process CL1 or CL2 executes is determined according to the number of defective nozzles detected in the first nozzle check. If no flag is set, the weakest cleaning process (CL0) is executed.
US08070250B2	Image forming apparatus An image forming apparatus includes a recording head, a transport belt, a pressure device, a sheet detection device, an ejection/transport device, and a control device. The control device controls generating a first stop timing of the sheet transportation by the transport belt, at which first stop timing the transfer belt stops transporting the sheet, and that controls a predetermined delay time after which a second stop timing is generated, at which second stop timing the ejection/transport device stops transporting the sheet, and that shortens the delay time after the sheet detection device detects a trailing edge of the sheet.
US08070247B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus and controlling method thereof There is provided a liquid ejecting apparatus including a head unit in which a plurality of heads in each of which a plurality of nozzles are disposed in a direction perpendicular to a recording medium transport direction are provided in the direction perpendicular to the recording medium transport direction, a control unit for driving the head unit based on image information and for performing a liquid ejection timing control for ejecting liquid from the nozzle to a recording medium for every nozzle, and an inclination amount storage unit in which inclination information of the head unit is preliminarily stored. The control unit has a calculator for calculating the most appropriate ejection timing with respect to the recording medium transport direction for every nozzle of each head from the image information and the inclination information of the head unit.
US08070246B2	Printing up to edges of printing paper without platen soiling This invention allows images to be printed up to the edges of printing paper while preventing ink droplets from depositing on the platen. Ink droplets Ip are ejected from a print head 28 and printing is started when printing paper P is fed in the sub-scanning direction by upstream paper feed rollers 25a and 25b, and the front edge Pf reaches a position above a downstream slot 26r. Since printing is started when the front edge Pf of printing paper P has reached a position behind nozzle No. 1, images can be printed without forming blank spaces up to the front edge Pf of the printing paper P by causing the nozzles to eject ink droplets Ip irrespective of whether the nozzles are above the printing paper. When images are formed in the vicinity of the front edge Pf of printing paper P, the paper is repeatedly fed in small increments in the sub-scanning direction, and printing is carried out. Adopting this arrangement makes it possible to print images on the front-edge portion of the printing paper when the paper is above the downstream slot 26r.
US08070245B2	Ink jet recording apparatus and method of ink jet recording A first image to be recorded on a first surface is divided into front and rear half regions. Obtained thereafter is front-side ink volume and rear-side ink volume necessary for recording these half regions on the first surface. Among these half regions, the one having more ink volume is recorded in the first place. In the event of recording the rear half region in the first place, the first image is turned upside down and recorded on the first surface of the recording paper being fed in a forward direction. Alternatively, the first image is recorded on the first surface of the recording paper being fed in a backward direction. After the ink has dried on the first surface, the recording paper is reversed back to front and fed in the forward direction, and a second image is recorded on a second surface.
US08070243B2	Electronic device enclosure An electronic device enclosure includes a bottom plate, a mounting member mounted to the bottom plate, and a resilient member attached to the mounting member. At least one bridge protrudes from the bottom plate. A gap is defined between the bridge and the bottom plate, and a protrusion is formed in the bottom plate. The mounting member includes a positioning tab capable of inserting into the gap along a first direction. At least one securing tab protrudes from a free end of the resilient member towards the bottom plate. The securing tab is capable of engaging with the protrusion of the bottom plate to prevent the position tab from removing from the gap along a second direction opposite to the first direction.
US08070242B2	Mounting unit and electronic apparatus First and second guiding rails are attached to support member in a mounting unit. The mounting unit is mounted in an enclosure of an electronic apparatus, for example. The second guiding rail at a first position extends straight on the extension of the first guiding rail. The first and second guiding rails serve to assist the insertion of the mounting unit into the enclosure. The second guiding rail at a second position serves to define a window opening with the assistance of the edge of the support member. A supervisor is allowed to insert fingers into the window opening. The second guiding rail functions as a handle. The second guiding rail in this manner serves to assist the carriage of the mounting unit. A space is not required solely for a handle separately from a space for a guiding rail in the mounting unit. The mounting unit is thus allowed to efficiently utilize its inside space.
US08070241B2	Track chain joint with rotatable pin A track chain joint for an endless track chain of a track-type vehicle is configured to engage first and second sprockets of a drive wheel of the track-type vehicle. Exemplarily, the joint has a pin, a bushing on the pin, first and second collars positioned respectively axially outboard of the bushing on the pin, and first and second drive caps positioned respectively axially outboard of the first and second collars and fixed to the pin, the first and second drive caps configured to engage respectively the first and second sprockets. Such components may be embodied in a cartridge.
US08070238B2	Electro mechanical brake, control device An electro mechanical brake apparatus is provided, in which a counter-measure for the heat of the driving circuit is much improved when configured to be integrated with an electric circuit. An electric circuit portion is provided by sandwiching a motor with brake pads, and a power module is provided so that a heat dissipating surface is opposed to the inner surface of the metallic outer case of the electric circuit portion, and a control circuit board is disposed at the motor side for the power module.
US08070233B2	Downwards folding seat A folding seat for an aircraft has a backrest, a seat area and an armrest. The seat area is pivotable. When the seat area is pivoted, the armrest is pivotable downwards, the seat area and the armrest being coupled by at least one coupling element in the form of a bevel gear.
US08070232B2	Scooter with dual chair backs The present invention provides a scooter with two chair backs. The scooter includes a main body containing a wheel seat, a pedal and front/rear wheel set; two chair back supports, assembled separately onto both sides on the back of wheel seat of the main body; and two chair backs, incorporated onto at least one chair back support via the connecting frame and transversely arranged at interval. The scooter of the present invention substantially improves the structural functionality and comfort of the chair back of the scooter, and also meets the diversified customer requirements with improved applicability.
US08070229B2	Monobloc rocking chair The present disclosure is directed to a monobloc rocking chair. The rocking chair includes a seat, backrest, a pair of front legs, a pair of rear legs, and rockers extending between front and rear legs. The chair is molded of a single material include a downwardly opening cavity and formed to taper outwardly from top to bottom. The cavity is formed by the seat being supported directly from below by front legs and being supported directly from above by a backrest. Rear legs are spaced from the seat. This allows two identical chairs to nest when vertically stacked for compact shipping, storage, or display. The monobloc rocking chair can include one or more arms or be armless.
US08070226B2	Infant car seat base An infant car seat base assembly has a base section with a top side, a bottom side, an upright base panel on a first end, and first and second openings vertically spaced apart on the upright base panel. A foot is attached to the first end and is slidable along the upright base panel in a direction generally normal to a plane of the bottom side between a first position and a second position. The foot has a foot body and a resilient, flexible leg extending up from the foot body. The flexible leg is exposed on an exterior of the base section and has a back side facing the upright base panel. The foot has a guide leg extending up from the foot body adjacent the flexible leg and positioned behind the upright base panel. A tab protrudes from the back side of the flexible leg and is sized to selectively seat in each of the first and second openings. The flexible leg biases the tab toward the upright base panel to seat in a selected one of the first and second openings when aligned therewith. The flexible leg can be bent outward away from the upright base panel to permit sliding the foot to one of the first or second positions.
US08070224B2	Vehicle entertainment system incorporated within the armrest/console of a vehicle A vehicle entertainment system includes a video system mounted within an automobile armrest/console, the armrest/console including an upper support surface. The video system includes an integrated housing supporting a video monitor and a video source.
US08070221B2	Operating support for surgeons The present disclosure concerns embodiments of an operating support that supports a surgeon in a sitting position straddling a patient. By straddling the patient, the surgeon is ideally positioned to perform certain types of laparoscopic surgery, such as pelvic surgery, which requires the use of relatively long surgical instruments. The operating support supports the surgeon in a more ergonomically correct position that reduces the stress and strain on the surgeon's body as compared to the conventional technique of performing laparoscopic surgery in a standing position at one side of the operating table.
US08070218B2	Roof locking apparatus for a vehicle To get out a roof (2) retracted in a storage space (7) therefrom, a link mechanism carries out pushing-out operation of push-pull cable (90) so that a grip member with the roof (2) gripped thereby is moved by an elastic force of a main spring (79) along a rail (74) from a retracted position to a gripping position, where the roof (2) is then released from gripped condition by the grip member.
US08070216B2	Vehicle frame with stress relief feature A vehicle frame includes a plurality of hollow tubular members welded together. An opening in a side wall of the frame which receives a door or window of the vehicle is bordered by at least two hollow tubular members which are interconnected by a non-tubular, reinforcing corner member. The reinforcing corner member includes a pair of solid parallel plates spaced apart by a perpendicular cross-member. Each plate of the reinforcing corner member has integral first and second elongated portions extending on either side of a continuous curve therebetween which has a substantially constant radius of curvature such as to define a smooth transition between the integral first and second elongated portions of the plate. The reinforcing corner member distributes stress away from the curved corner and to the tubular members, thereby preventing stress concentration at a joint between the two tubular members surrounding the opening in the frame.
US08070213B2	Machine having trim piece assembly with reduced discordance and method A method of reducing discordance among components of a molded trim piece assembly includes making each of the plurality of components according to a component configuration pattern adapted to mitigate deformation of the plurality of components, and making each of the plurality of components according to a joint configuration pattern adapted to mitigate misalignment between the plurality of components at a joint. A machine includes a molded trim piece assembly configured to amount to a body of the machine, such as to a fender of the machine, which includes a plurality of components having a component configuration pattern adapted to mitigate deformation of the plurality of components and a joint configuration pattern adapted to mitigate misalignment at a joint between the plurality of components, when mounted to the body.
US08070211B2	Automatic deploying car cover system for a car equipped with an automatic opening/closing trunk An automatic car cover system, driven by electric motors, for a car, which is equipped with an automatic opening/closing trunk lid, is provided. The automatic car cover system according to current application is comprised of one cover runner, one holster, one holster casing, one guide, one cover sheet, and one cover sheet un-folder. The cover runner is a small electric motor driven vehicle equipped with caterpillars, which are comprised of magnetic plates covered with rubber. The holster pushes out/rewinds the cover runner, the guide, and the cover sheet with un-folder. The holster comes out of and goes into trunk of the car with aid of a line connected to a reverse power motor installed in the holster.
US08070210B2	Truck bed enclosure A positionable truck bed enclosure may be mounted on the gunwales of a pickup truck. The enclosure may comprise side panels mountable on the gunwales and a top hinged along one edge and mounted between the side panels. The top may be hinged intermediate its ends to form first and second sections, and control arms connected to the second section may be used to control the position of the lower edge of the second section as the top is raised and lowered.
US08070209B2	Sun visor A sun visor assembly includes a sun visor in which the corners associated with one of the longer edges are rotatably mounted to an automotive vehicle, one corner of which is fixed and the other corner being removable from a mount affixed to the vehicle. The removable corner has a cutout with a cylindrical pin coupled to the cutout at both ends of the pin. The mount has an arcuate cradle to engage the pin over less than half of its circumference. The opening to gain access to the cradle faces generally downward when installed and the pin is held in the mount by magnetic attraction.
US08070207B2	Multi-position tailgate support apparatus and method A method and apparatus for adjusting the location of suspension for a tailgate is disclosed. The method may include selecting a vehicle comprising a first side, a second side, a tailgate, and at least one tailgate support. The tailgate may be connected to pivot with respect to the first and second sides through a range of motion. The at least one tailgate support may have a first end connected to the first side, a second end connected to tailgate, and an adjustor positioned between the first and second ends. The method may further include actuating the adjustor to change the length under tension of at least one tailgate support. By changing this length, the location of suspension for the tailgate may be adjusted.
US08070203B2	Method for controlling vacuum-operated hoists and load protection device for vacuum-operated hoists A method for operating vacuum-operated hoists with at least one elastically deformable vacuum-operated lifting mechanism, with a controllable vacuum generator, and with at least one motorized lifting drive is disclosed. A load detection device is used in order to detect the weight of a load picked up by the hoist. The load detection device generates a protection signal directly after detection of a load exceeding a predetermined tare weight of the hoist if the vacuum is insufficient to lift the load. The protection signal indirectly or directly deactivates the lifting drive with the aid of a switch-off control and/or prevents further lifting of the load if an insufficient vacuum or no vacuum is present when an increased load is detected and lifting begins.
US08070202B2	Gripper with central support A gripper assembly including at least one gripper jaw and an actuator head linked with the at least one gripper jaw. An actuator selectively operates to move the actuator head between a plurality of positions. A support is fixed relative to the actuator and includes a guide slot that guides the actuator head. One of the actuator head or the guide slot includes a channel and the other of the actuator head or the guide slot includes a guide member extending there from at least partially into the channel.
US08070199B2	Apparatus for picking up semiconductor package Disclosed is a semiconductor package pickup apparatus. The apparatus includes a picker base formed with first and second main feeding holes, which are connected to each pneumatic line providing a pneumatic pressure and aligned in a dual-layer structure, and an adsorption pad coupled to a lower portion of the picker base and formed with adsorption holes connected to the first and second main feeding holes. The pneumatic pressure supplied into the first and second main feeding holes is independently controlled, so that the apparatus easily loads or picks up semiconductor packages, even if the size of the semiconductor packages becomes reduced.
US08070196B2	Bumper mounting assemblies and vehicles incorporating same A bumper mounting assembly comprises a support member mountable to a vehicle front and a bumper-carrying member hingedly mounted to the support member to be movable between an upright position and a lowered position. A primary actuator is secured to the support member and the bumper-carrying member and can apply braking force against movement of the bumper-carrying member from the upright position to the lowered position and can preferably move the bumper-carrying member from the lowered position to the upright position. One of the bumper-carrying member and the support member carries a detent and the other carries a movable latch and a latch actuator for moving the latch between an engagement position and a disengagement position, with the latch biased into the engagement position so that the latch can selectively retain the bumper-carrying member in the upright position. A system to maintain pressure in a spare tire is also described.
US08070193B2	Foldable electronic device An exemplary foldable electronic device includes a first cover, a second cover coupled to the first cover and a latch mechanism. The latch mechanism includes a hooking portion disposed on the first cover and a latching portion formed on the second cover. The hooking portion has a hook, the latching portion has a latching slot, an unlatching slot, and a sliding slot connecting the latching slot and the unlatching slot. The hook is deformable to capable of latching the latching slot or unlatching from the latching portion when sliding to the unlatching slot along the sliding slot.
US08070191B2	Threaded joint for steel pipes A threaded joint for steel pipes comprises a pin having male threads and a box having female threads which engage with the male threads. An incomplete thread is formed at the start of the male threads and the incomplete thread has a portion in which the angle θ formed between its crest face and its flank on the side facing a complete thread is an obtuse angle and in which the thread height h from the base of the flank is at least 0.2 mm.
US08070188B2	Quick-connecting coupler for hoses, pipes and faucets A quick-connecting coupler for connecting hoses, connectors together or to a faucet or other water accessories that allows ease of use by anyone, including the elderly, the infirm, and those suffering from disabilities. The quick-connecting coupler has a first male-end and a second female end. The second female end is provided with of spaced-apart through-slots or opening for receiving therethrough a pair of forks or leg-sections of a yoke. Each of the pair of forks or leg-sections is provided with at least one interior-facing linear thread or rib for engaging with the male threads of the mating male end of another hose, or the like. The second female end of the coupler of the invention has a pair diametrically opposed cutouts through which portions of the linear threads or ribs are exposed, whereby these exposed portions of the threads or ribs may mate with corresponding portions of the male threads of the mating male end positioned in the second female end of the coupler for coupling the mating male end in the female end of the coupler.
US08070182B2	Hand truck having arrangement for mounting on a carrier of bicycle after handles retracting A hand truck includes handles; a ledge comprising a cavity; a fastening device comprising a quick release and a clamp; and a locking device comprising a hollow first section including an opening on either side, a hollow second section releasably put on the first section, the second section including an opening on either side, the openings being in registration to each other, a block member in the first section and including a transverse channel aligned with the openings and the cavity, a sliding lock pin in the cavity, the openings, and the channel to lock the first and second sections, the lock pin having a projection in the channel, a depressible shuttle member in the first section and including a hook partially disposed in the block member, and an inclined slot in the hook with the projection disposed therein, and an actuation rod releasably secured to the shuttle member.
US08070178B2	Protective safety cover for the pin box and the king pin of a fifth wheel type trailer A protective safety cover for fifth wheel pin has a main panel having at least one edge, and an opening adapted to receive the king pin of the trailer therethrough; a perimeter wall extending perpendicularly to the at least one edge of the main panel; and a retainer member connected to the main panel and adapted to securely and removably attach the safety cover to the goose neck of the trailer and around the king pin, to thereby surround the king pin and protect a person from accidentally hitting the king pin.
US08070177B2	Steer axle assembly An improved steer axle assembly for a trailer is provided in which a tapered roller thrust bearing extends between each lower kingpin yoke thrust face and each lower kingpin sleeve thrust face to transfer load between the lower yoke sleeve and the kingpin sleeve while allowing the yokes to swivel about the kingpins. Upper and lower needle bearing assemblies extend respectively between the upper and lower yoke sleeves and the kingpins to guide the swivelable movement of the yokes about the kingpins. Upper and lower kingpin caps are secured across the upper and lower yoke sleeves respectively above and below the kingpins to seal the opposite ends of the kingpins within the yoke sleeves. At least one of the upper and lower kingpin caps associated with each kingpin has a grease passage extending therethrough for admitting grease into an interior of the yoke sleeves and a grease fitting releaseably coupleable to a pressurized grease supply and sealingly engaging the grease passage to introduce grease into the grease passage.
US08070175B2	Bicycle frame manufacture A bicycle frame is provided in which the head tube, top tube and down tube are constructed as a single structural unit with the ends of the top tube and down tube left open to allow for ease of molding.
US08070170B2	Tilt device for a material handling machine A machine (A) includes a frame (16) and a platform (58) on which a boom assembly (B) is mounted. Two arms (332) of a U-shaped pivotal member (330) are pivotably mounted to the frame (16) about a first pivot axis (380) perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the frame (16). A front end (302) of a mounting plate (310) is pivotably connected to an intermediate section (336) of the pivotal member (330) about a second pivot axis (382) perpendicular to and spaced from the first pivot axis (380). Two rams (400) are mounted on opposite sides of a rear end (304) of the mounting plate (310). Each ram (400) includes a lower end (404) pivotably connected to the frame (16) and an upper end (402) pivotably connected to one of the sides of the mounting plate (310). The boom assembly (B), the mounting plate (310), and the pivotal member (330) pivot about the first pivot axis (380) and/or the second pivot axis (382) relative to the frame (16) due to relative movement of the rams (400).
US08070164B1	Method of playing a child's memory game A child's memory game utilizes a plurality of miniature chairs and smaller play pieces. The play pieces all depict characters related to a particular subject, e.g. breakfast food. The chairs are lined up with their backs facing the players. One character play piece is placed on each chair, out of sight of the players. The players alternate guessing the location of play pieces and are awarded the chairs and play pieces when they guess correctly. The player with the most chairs and play pieces is the winner.
US08070161B2	Game balls bearing multiple game indicia and games played therewith A game ball has two different game indicia associated therewith. One or more of such game balls may be part of a set of game balls, such as a set of balls used to play a bingo, keno or lottery game where the game indicia may comprise numbers used to play lottery or keno, or combinations of letters and numbers for play of a bingo game. Compared to game balls bearing a single game indicia, selection of a game ball bearing multiple game indicia presents a player with an increased or bonus matching opportunity. The game balls may be physical elements or be electronic representations, such as displayed images, thereof.
US08070160B2	Playing cards shuffling and dealing machine The invention presents a methodology and device for distribution of playing cards. Automatic operation without manual intervention is its main theme. This eliminates the likely manipulations, monotony, errors associated with manual handling of playing cards. The device has provision of conventional automatic shuffling prior to distributing. Playing cards shuffled in more elaborate manner by other suitable devices also can be used on the invented device. There are many user friendly features of the invented device. These include compact size, portability, ease of operation and maintenance, adaptability to any card games. Optional operation of this device by a remote control enhances its utility Standard playing cards of Bridge or Poker size can be used with this device. The invented device is said to be useful to group of players in homes, club houses, casinos and at out-doors.
US08070155B2	Sheet aligning method and sheet post-processing apparatus including aligning device A sheet post-processing apparatus includes first rollers that convey a sheet, a waiting tray that includes a pair of sheet supporting units movable in a direction orthogonal to a conveying direction of the sheet and on which the sheet conveyed via the first rollers is stacked, second rollers that are provided downstream the waiting tray along the conveying direction of the sheet and are suspended, when projection of a leading end of the sheet from the waiting tray reaches a predetermined projection amount according to the conveyance of the sheet, simultaneously with the first rollers disposed upstream the waiting tray, and an aligning unit that stacks the sheet and continuously-conveyed plural sheets dropped after a trailing end of the sheet is discharged onto the waiting tray by the first rollers and the second rollers and aligns a bundle of the plural sheets.
US08070152B2	Sheet supplying unit and image forming device A sheet supplying unit that supplies sheets includes a sheet accommodation tray that accommodates the sheets in a stacked state, the sheets including a first sheet which is an uppermost sheet in the stack of the sheets and a second sheet which is immediately below the first sheet; a pick-up roller that conveys the sheets in a sheet conveying direction; a detection sensor that detects passage of the sheets and is disposed downstream of the pick-up roller in the sheet conveying direction; and a control unit that controls operations of the pick-up roller in accordance with outputs from the detection sensor. The control unit includes a driving section that drives the pick-up roller to start conveying the second sheet when the detection sensor detects a trailing edge of the first sheet, if the second sheet is to be fed; a suspending section that temporarily stops driving the pick-up roller for a time period α-β when the detection sensor detects a leading edge of the second sheet, α being a predetermined time period, and β being a time period from a timing when the detection sensor detects the trailing edge of the first sheet to a timing when the detection sensor detects the leading edge of the second sheet; and a resuming section that resumes driving the pick-up roller to convey the second sheet after suspending for the time period α-β.
US08070151B2	Sheet processing apparatus and sheet processing method A sheet processing apparatus includes a sheet-table unit, a sheet-separating unit disposed at a downstream end of the sheet-table unit along a convey direction of the sheets, a convey unit arranged at a downstream end of sheet-separating unit, a discharge unit located at a downstream end of the convey unit, an sheet processing unit placed between the convey unit and the discharge unit, a speed sensor arranged at an upstream end of the sheet-separating unit for detecting a movement of each sheet for forming a sheet interval between two adjacent sheets, and an edge sensor located between the sheet-separating unit and the sheet processing unit. The edge sensor detects a front edge and a rear edge of each sheet passing therethrough, and sends corresponding control signals to a system controller which delays a predetermined time according to the control signals to control the sheet processing unit to start and stop processing.
US08070149B2	Arrangement for gathering or assembling printed sheets for producing bound printed products An arrangement for gathering or assembling printed sheets into semi-finished products for producing bound printed products, the arrangement including a conveying device and a plurality of replaceable feeder units arranged side-by-side along the conveying device. Each replaceable feeder unit includes at least two feeders for supplying the printed sheets to the conveying device and an undercarriage. The plurality of replaceable feeder units are arranged on the undercarriage. The undercarriage includes interface sections assigned, respectively, to the replaceable feeder units and the interface sections each include a first interface configuration. The arrangement further includes an adapter device that is arranged on the interface section and includes a top side compatible for attaching feeders with a second interface configuration different from the first interface configuration and includes a bottom side compatible with the first interface configuration so that the adapter device can be fitted on the interface section of the undercarriage.
US08070148B2	Cutting board excellent in a drainage function A cutting board, including retaining holes in a side surface thereof, each retaining hole including a screw hole at an end side of the retaining hole and a first fitting portion at an opening side of the retaining hole; projecting rods inserted into the retaining holes each include a cylindrical second fitting portion and a threaded portion to be screwed onto the screw hole with ends of the second fitting portion projecting from the side surface of the cutting board; a remaining portion of each first fitting portion is fit into the fitting portion of each retaining hole; each projecting rod is pivoted in a forward and reverse direction to allow the threaded portion thereof to move in a left and right direction within the screw hole; the length of each of the projecting portions projecting from the side surface of the cutting board is adjusted to fasten each projecting rod.
US08070139B2	Air treatment device having an audible indicator The present invention provides a system for dispensing an air treatment and audibly indicating the dispensing and/or a change in the dispensing intensity. An exemplary audible indicator may include a pattern of a plurality of audible indicators having the same or different durations, having the same or different intensities, separated by the same or different intervals, and having the same or different audible impressions. Different audible indicators are associated with different device states, such as not dispensing, dispensing to create ambiance, dispensing in response to a malodor, or dispensing to offset habituation. Different audible indicators may also be associated with different malodors, or different intensities of the same or different malodors.
US08070137B2	Handrail assembly A handrail assembly configured for grasping by a pedestrian includes a railing formed from an extruded metal such as aluminum. The railing includes an integrally formed channel running a length thereof within the interior of the railing. The channel includes a threaded portion for receiving a fastener for mounting the handrail assembly to a mounting assembly for interconnection to a wall. The mounting assembly includes a fastener secured within a bracket post that extends downwardly from the railing of the handrail assembly. The fastener of the bracket post is self-threaded onto the railing through a pilot hole drilled into the bottom surface of the railing. The bracket post is coupled to a bracket by way of a fastener to thereby mount the bracket to a wall so as to secure the handrail assembly to the wall.
US08070129B2	Solenoid valve A solenoid valve includes a coil, a yoke, a tubular stator housing, an armature, a valve element, a tubular valve body, and a supporting member. The valve element is displaceable with the armature for opening and closing a flow channel. The tubular valve body is provided inside the stator housing for slidably supporting the valve element. The supporting member is coupled with the stator housing. The valve body includes a flange portion that extends radially outwardly. The flange portion is provided between the stator housing and the supporting member along a longitudinal axis of the valve body. The yoke is coupled with the stator housing.
US08070128B2	Manual or automatic actuation system A dual function actuator for a flush valve. The actuator contains a sensor for controlling a motor, which in response to a stimulus will move a plunger which actuates the flush valve. The actuator is also configured to allow for manual actuation of the flush valve by tilting a distal portion of the actuator in relation to the remaining portion of the actuator and flush valve, which moves the plunger actuating the flush valve.
US08070127B2	Manual override apparatus for linear actuators Apparatus for manual override operation of a linear actuator are described. An example manual override apparatus includes a manual operator having a first coupling on a first side and a second coupling on a second side opposite the first side. A first drive member having external threads is coupled to a housing of an actuator. The first drive member includes a first end to removably receive the first coupling of the manual operator, a second end to selectively engage an actuation member of the actuator, and a bore therethrough along a longitudinal axis of the first drive member. A second drive member disposed in the bore to be rotatably coupled to the first drive member. The second drive member has a first end threadably coupled to an actuator stem of the actuation member and a second end to removably receive the second coupling of the manual operator. Rotation of the first drive member in a first rotational direction via the manual operator moves the actuation member of the actuator in a first linear direction and rotation of the second drive member relative to the first drive member in the first rotational direction via the manual operator causes the actuation member to move in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction.
US08070124B2	Supporting stand with heat dissipation device A supporting stand for a portable device includes a base portion, a supporting portion, at least one heat dissipation device and a platform. The supporting portion extends upwardly from the base portion. The at least one heat dissipation device is fastened on the supporting portion. The platform obliquely connects between the supporting portion and the base portion for supporting the portable device.
US08070123B2	Adjustable mounting bracket for electronic device A mounting bracket for fixing an electronic device on television set includes a holding portion and a mounting portion. The holding portion includes a holding frame, a rotating frame and a connecting hinge. The mounting portion includes an adjusting strap, a plurality of hook portions, a pair of adjustable buckles, a pair of latch portions, a pair of latching hooks and a pair of adjustable screws. The latching hook can be fixed on the latch portion by inserting the adjusting screw through the round hole and the adjusting slot. The mounting bracket can be mounted on different positions by adjusting a relative position between the holding frame and the rotating frame or by securing the adjusting strap on different position of the buckling portion and by mating the hook portion with the tri-lobed hole.
US08070121B2	Mounting device for a flat screen display panel A mount for attaching a flat screen display panel is disclosed in which a wall bracket is attached to a support surface, a panel bracket is secured to a display panel, and the two brackets then cooperate to securely affix the display panel to the support surface while allowing subsequent lateral and pivotal adjustment.
US08070116B1	Cookware underliner A cookware underliner as some having a top and bottom layer encapsulating at least a portion of a rigid frame. The top layer provides a base with upwardly extending sidewalls which receive a cooking article therein. The top and bottom layers are preferably constructed of silicon rubber or thermoplastic rubber and provide an attractive alternative to planar birchwood underliners currently available in the marketplace.
US08070113B1	Sway brace A sway brace including a U-shaped sling with flanges at each end. The flanges are mounted to two mounting fixtures including block bodies and passages therethrough. Mounting surfaces on the fixtures receive the flanges of the U-shaped sling. Threaded members affix the flanges to the mounting surfaces of the mounting fixtures. The sling includes metal strapping formed in a U-shaped curve about an axis perpendicular to the width of the strapping in a manner to create rigidity and strength.
US08070112B2	Lateral storage spool for overhead cable pathway A system including an overhead cable pathway structure and a cable storage device that mounts overhead to the cable pathway structure. The cable storage device including a storage spool and a cable pathway exit having a curved surface that guides excess cable exiting from the overhead cable pathway structure to the spool.
US08070108B2	Signaling and remote control train operation A model train and layout control system based on on-board sound and locomotive modules, new signaling methods, bi-directional communication, environmental sound, turnout control, train location methods, computer interaction and accessory control, by adding components to existing technology. AC power signal waveforms are variously altered to convey digital command words.
US08070107B2	Net structure and methods of making the same A net structure includes a plurality of metal rightwards inclined wires including, in sequence, a first rightwards inclined wire, a second rightwards inclined wire, and an N-th rightwards inclined wire. The net structure further includes a plurality of metal leftwards inclined wires including, in sequence, a first leftwards inclined wire, a second leftwards inclined wire, and an N-th leftwards inclined wire. The first rightwards inclined wires intersects, in sequence, from the first rightwards inclined wire through the N-th rightwards inclined wire at an intersection at which a twine portion is formed. The second rightwards inclined wires intersects, in sequence, from the second rightwards inclined wire through the N-th rightwards inclined wire at an intersection at which a twine portion is formed. The N-th leftwards inclined wire intersects the N-th rightwards inclined wire at an intersection at which a twine portion is formed, thereby forming a net structure with a plurality of hexagonal meshes. The net structure is made by slant weaving.
US08070099B2	Aircraft baffle seal Aircraft systems having baffle seals with low coefficients of friction and methods of assembling aircraft systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an aircraft system includes: (a) an aircraft baffle; (b) an aircraft cowl separated from the aircraft baffle by a gap, the aircraft cowl having a contact surface; and (c) a flexible aircraft baffle seal extending from the aircraft baffle to the aircraft cowl to seal the gap, the aircraft baffle seal having a contact side for contacting the contact surface of the aircraft cowl, the contact side having a kinetic coefficient of friction that is not more than 0.4, the aircraft baffle seal comprising an elastomer sheet and a laminate, the laminate being the contact side.
US08070092B2	Noise-suppressing strut support system for an unmanned aerial vehicle A strut support system for a ducted fan unmanned aerial vehicle to suppress noise comprising: a ducted fan fuselage that defines an opening; an engine that extends longitudinally through the opening in the fuselage; a drive mechanism rotatably mounted to the engine, wherein a fan is mounted on the drive mechanism within a duct defined by the opening; and a plurality of struts extending between the ducted fan fuselage and the engine each comprising a first leg and a second leg joined together by a curvilinear junction, wherein the first leg is attached to the ducted fan fuselage and the second leg is attached to the engine, wherein the plurality of struts are positioned upstream of the fan, wherein the junction between the first leg of each of the plurality of struts and the ducted fan fuselage is outside the highlight of the ducted fan fuselage's leading edge.
US08070089B2	Hybrid helicopter that is fast and has long range A hybrid helicopter (1) includes a central fuselage (2) defining a front end (3) and a rear end (4), the hybrid helicopter (1) having a main lift rotor (10), an additional lift surface (20), a mechanical interconnection system (40), and at least one turbine engine (61, 62) for continuously driving the main rotor (10) in rotation. Furthermore, the main rotor (10) is mechanically connected to the mechanical interconnection system (40) by rotary rotor mast (12), and the additional lift surface (20) is arranged at the rear of the hybrid helicopter (1) between the rotor mast (12) and the rear end (4) of the fuselage (2), each end zone (21′, 22′) of the wings (21, 22) of the additional lift surface (20) being provided with a vertical element (23, 24) fitted with a rudder (23′, 24′).
US08070082B2	Shredder and/or shredder head with pivotable top panel A shredder having a pivoting top panel which may include a display which may reduce potential safety hazards. The shredder may include a top panel thereon that is moveable between a first position, in which the top panel covers the slot, and a second position, in which the top panel is positioned to allow access to the slot.
US08070078B2	Crushing material A method and an apparatus for crushing material, particularly mined material, are disclosed. In one embodiment two or more pairs of crushing rolls successively crush mined material. The pairs of crushing rolls are arranged and operated so that an upstream pair of rolls produces a feed, preferably a pressurized feed, for a downstream pair of rolls. In another embodiment, at least an upstream pair of rolls is driven intermittently, for example, by means of a stepping motor to provide stepped rotational movement of the rolls.
US08070077B2	Apparatus for dispensing liquid material A method and an apparatus for dispensing liquid material to a substrate comprising a housing having a bore and an inlet for supplying liquid material from a material source to the bore. A nozzle communicates with the inlet and includes a discharge opening for dispensing the liquid material. A movable plunger is mounted for reciprocal movement between a closed and an open position. In the open position, liquid material is dispensed from the discharge opening and in the closed position, liquid material is prevented from being dispensed from the discharge opening. An actuator moves the plunger between the closed and the open position. The plunger has at least one slot extending from the outer periphery toward the center of the plunger.
US08070076B2	Articulating faucet and joint therefor Articulating faucets have segments connected by a plurality of movable joints. Each joint includes a pair of ceramic mating disks arranged in face to face contact, but able to rotate relative to each other when sufficient force is applied. A wave spring helps keep the disks in constant contact, and rubber spheres press against opposing surfaces of the ceramic disks to produce shear forces to keep the joint stable. In the faucet water passes through the joint by means of a tube or a hollow banjo bolt sealed from the joint. The faucet can therefore direct water to a wide variety of positions, without the need for a side spray, and while reducing the risk of joint leakage.
US08070072B2	Method for controlling digital shower system A method for controlling a digital shower system includes the steps of: actuating the digital shower system for operation; detecting whether the system is in order or not, and if not, generating an error message; otherwise, performing the next step; entering a ready mode, for discharging in advance a water flow in an outlet pipe that does not reach a preset outlet water temperature; entering a shower mode, in which a desired message is input through a digital user interface, a water outlet is controlled by a control unit to continuously output water maintained at the same temperature as the preset outlet water temperature; and providing several preset power-off conditions for automatically turning off the digital shower system. The method may not only achieve the function of discharging water in advance, but also automatically shut off the water output in a certain time period, so as to save water.
US08070068B2	Transaction product with slide viewer A transaction product includes a lens, a slide, an actuating mechanism, a housing and an account identifier. The slide depicts a plurality of scenes, and each of the plurality of scenes is separately depicted on a different portion of the slide. The actuating mechanism is positioned to cause movement of the slide to change which one of the plurality of scenes aligns with and is viewable through the lens at a given time. The housing substantially encloses the lens, the slide and the actuating mechanism. The account identifier is coupled with the housing and links the transaction product to an account or record. The account identifier is machine readable by a point-of-sale terminal such that value can be added to or deducted from the account using the account identifier. Other product, cards, assemblies and associated methods are also disclosed.
US08070061B2	Card credential method and system In one implementation, a method for providing access to a secure facility includes authenticating the user; generating a card credential, transmitting the card credential to an access card carried by of the user, and transmitting the card key to the access card in a form that is usable by the access card. The generating the card credential includes encrypting the card key using a server encryption key. The card key is usable for a challenge-response interaction during subsequent access requests by the user.
US08070059B2	Authorization for device interaction with a remote service A method for authorizing device interaction includes requesting, from a connected device, authorization data from a remote service. At the connected device, authorization data is received and then passed with an authorization prompt to a user interface device. From the connected device, a user interface device response to the prompt is passed to the remote service. At the connected device, authorization setting data is received and stored. The authorization setting data has a value determined according to the user interface device response and is useable by the connected device to determine authorization for subsequent connected device interaction with the remote service.
US08070058B2	Wireless transaction medium having combined magnetic stripe and radio frequency communications A wireless financial transaction instrument, such as a card, has a magnetic stripe, a display, and an on-board power supply, such as a battery, and is usable with a dual capture point of sale terminal. Information is received by such a terminal from the card wirelessly, and also from the magnetic stripe, and the data received contactlessly is preferably used to verify that read from the stripe. The display can display the account number on command, or to display a current balance, or amount of credit remaining, or any combination of these items of information.
US08070054B2	Stored-value product with manufactured article A stored-value product includes a toy automobile and a panel. The toy automobile includes a body and wheels rotatably coupled to the body. The panel is coupled to the body and includes an account identifier signifying a financial account or record linked to the stored-value card assembly. Stored-value product assemblies, methods of promoting sales of stored-value products, methods of using a stored-value product and other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08070052B2	Carton with handle A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a first top panel, a second top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The first top panel and the second top panel being at least partially overlapped to form a top wall of the carton. At least two end flaps are overlapped with respect to one another and thereby at least partially form a closed end of the carton. A handle in the top wall of the carton comprises a first handle section in the first top panel, a second handle section in the second top panel, and a handle reinforcement flap foldably connected to at least one of the first top panel and the second top panel. The first handle section, the second handle section, and the handle reinforcement flap are placed in overlapping relationship to form the handle.
US08070049B2	Device and method for wave soldering The instant invention relates to a device for wave soldering workpieces, encompassing means for moving the workpiece, which is to be soldered, along a specific path across at least one solder wave generated above a solder reservoir, with a protective and/or active gas atmosphere of a first composition being located above the solder reservoir so as to exclude oxygen and with means for introducing the protective and/or active gas as well as an enclosure being provided, with the enclosure being configured in such a manner that it encloses at least the essential parts of a solder zone.
US08070041B2	Direct application of pressure for bonding porous coatings to substrate materials used in orthopaedic implants A method for constantly controlling a direct application of pressure for bonding porous coatings to substrate materials used in orthopaedic implants. The direct pressure is applied to an interface between the porous coating and the substrate material via a pressure application mechanism unaffected by heat and air pressure conditions of the bonding process. The pressure application mechanism maintains a pressure on the implant which is constantly controlled throughout the bonding process.
US08070036B1	True multi-fire surgical stapler configured to fire staples of different sizes A surgical apparatus may include a knife, a staple holder along which the knife is slidable, a plurality of feeder belts located on each side of the knife, and a plurality of staples separably connected to each feeder belt, where the staple holder is configured to fire at least two separate sizes of staples. A surgical method of treating tissue within the body of a patient may include providing an endocutter having a knife, a staple holder along which the knife is slidable, a plurality of feeder belts located on each side of the knife, and a plurality of staples separably connected to each feeder belt, wherein the staple holder is configured to fire at least two separate sizes of staples; engaging tissue of the patient with the staple holder; deploying a plurality of staples having a first size; disengaging tissue of the patient from the staple holder; once again engaging tissue of the patient with the staple holder; and deploying a plurality of staples having a second size.
US08070035B2	Surgical stapling instruments including a cartridge having multiple staple sizes A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge and an anvil member. The staple cartridge includes a plurality of surgical fasteners disposed in rows of retention slots. The staple cartridge may have an annular or linear configuration of retention slots. The tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge may be tapered or stepped. The anvil member has a tissue contacting surface that includes a number of pockets arranged for substantially aligning with the retention slots. In addition, the tissue contacting surface of the anvil member may complement the tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge.
US08070032B2	Apparatus, system, and method for middle turbinate medializer An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for medializing the middle turbinate following sinus surgery, thus preventing synacheiae, granulation tissue, and other complications of the prior art. The apparatus utilizes a fastening device configured to attach the middle turbinate to the nasal septum, a prong comprising a slender wand portion and a fastening module, and a handle configured to trigger deployment of the fastening means by activating the fastening module. The fastening device may be a staple, rivet, glue, or another similar device.
US08070023B2	Beverage dispensing assembly A beverage dispensing assembly that is capable of dispensing controlled or metered portions of a beverage charged with a gas fits onto a shelf in a conventional household refrigerator. The beverage dispensing assembly includes a sealed disposable container assembly that contains the beverage and a dispensing assembly that cooperates with the container assembly to selectively unseal the container assembly and dispense controlled portions of the beverage from the container assembly.
US08070018B2	Viscoelastic liquid flow splitter and methods A viscoelastic liquid flow splitter includes a flow splitter body having a first bore including a first bore outlet and a first bore inlet, and a second bore including a second bore outlet and a second bore inlet. The bore inlets are substantially parallel to each other and the bore outlets diverge from each other at an angle. The flow splitter also includes a compression fitting having a first and a second tubular portion fluidically coupled to the first and second bore inlets where the tubular portions are configured to fluidically couple to a double barreled viscoelastic liquid dispensing syringe.
US08070016B2	Pouch for refill of contents A pouch is formed out of two sheets of plastic heat sealed over most of the edge length. The pouch has an expanding bottom feature and has a pouring spout formed by raised impressions in the corresponding sheets of plastic that form matching embossments. When the pouch is squeezed, the embossments open further apart to form a larger fluid passage at the outlet. The outlet of the pouch is opposite the bottom of the pouch and in at least one embodiment has a region on both sides of the outlet that are kept free from heat sealing during manufacture. The outlet also has a frangible line of weakness for easy opening. The outlet passage has two sets of embossments that meet along a center line to more fully expand the central portion of the pouch.
US08070014B2	Liner piercing twist closure A dispensing closure system is provided for a container that has an opening wherein a membrane is interposed between the container opening and the dispensing closure system. The system includes a base for extending from the container at the opening. The base has a receiving passage and an annular sealing flange extending radially inwardly around the passage. A movable spout is mounted in the base receiving passage and has a grippable discharge end that projects axially outwardly from the base receiving passage. The spout has a dispensing passage extending through the spout and has a peripheral sealing surface that is sealingly engaged with the base annular sealing flange. The spout also has a piercing element at an axially inward end of the spout. A cam track is located in either the base or the spout. A cam follower is located on the other one of the base and spout, and the cam follower is engaged in the cam track. The grippable discharge end of the spout can be grasped to rotate the spout for moving the spout axially to pierce the membrane.
US08070011B2	Glass packaging cover A cover to be attached to a container having a mouth defined at an open end thereof. The cover includes a body having a plane surface defined at an upper end thereof and which is connected to a flap defined at a lower end of the body for sealingly engaging the mouth of the container. A semi-spherical shaped expansion chamber is positioned between and connecting the plane surface and the flap, and an inner trunk-conic wall abuts the plane surface and extends way from the plane surface and toward the mouth of the container. The inner trunk-conic wall terminates at a bottom wall, wherein the bottom wall extends transverse relative to a longitudinal axis of the cover; and an exhaust hole is defined in the bottom wall.
US08070004B2	Container flooring system In various embodiments, shipping container systems are described included an extended tunnel flooring system with a steel floor piece running lengthwise down the center of the extended tunnel floor, and an Omega flooring system including alternating lengthwise strips of 6 wood floor pieces and 5 floor steel pieces on a structure of support beams reinforced with steel gusset plate.
US08070001B2	Two piece draft gear housing having a integral yoke A housing for a railway car draft gear assembly for cushioning buff and draft shocks includes a rear portion engageable with the rear stops of such railway car and a front portion configured for attachment to a coupler arm. Opposed ends of the front and rear portions are provided with complimentary flanges for removable attachment of the front portion to the rear portion with threaded fasteners.
US08069998B2	Surgical holder for a surgical container and surgical container In order to improve a surgical holder for surgical instruments and/or implants for a surgical container, in particular, a sterile container or perforated basket, comprising a storage device for holding and/or storing surgical instruments and/or implants and an attachment device for attaching the holder to the container, such that it can be attached to the container more easily it is suggested that the attachment device be transferable from an attaching position, in which it can be brought into engagement with and connected to the container, into a position of abutment, in which it can be brought out of engagement with the container, and that the attachment device comprise at least two attachment members, which are connected to one another via the storage device, for attaching the holding to the container. Furthermore, an improved surgical container is suggested.
US08069997B2	Portable tool rack A tool rack includes a frame having two sidewalls and two slots are defined through the two sidewalls. A plurality of recesses are defined in the frame and a rod having second recesses is connected between the two sidewalls. A restriction member is connected to the frame and two distal ends of the restriction member are movably engaged with the slots of the frame. The restriction member includes third recesses which are located in alignment with the recesses so that the tools are engaged with the first, second and third recesses. A stop plate extends from a distal end of an inside of each third recess so as to prevent the tools from disengaging from these recesses. When shifting the restriction member, the stop plates are moved away from the recesses so that the tools can be picked out from the tool rack.
US08069992B2	Angled package and display system A product display system and method includes a support and at least one product container supported by the support. The product containers incorporate one or more wings or flanges that enhance viewability of the containers from the side. The wings of the product containers may project forwardly or rearwardly from card portions of the containers, such as at angles of at least 20 degrees relative to the card portions. The containers may be supported at a support arm or the like, and have a center of gravity located behind a header for suspending the packages from the support arm, causing the packages to angle or tilt with their front faces angled somewhat upwardly, such as toward an illumination source, when suspended from the support arm.
US08069989B1	Self-cleaning water filter system A self-cleaning water filter system for removing particulate matter from water by producing scouring effect which pulls debris or particles off from a filter element when a fluid flow is produced across the filter element. The self-cleaning water filter system has a filter housing having an upper portion, a lower portion, and an internal cavity. A water inlet tube, an exit tube and a water supply line are adapted to be connected to the filter housing. The filter element is positioned within the filter housing and can have a cylindrical or rectangular configuration. A pressure vessel is in fluid communication with the internal cavity of the filter housing. A pressurizable flexible chamber adapted to expand and contract due to the pressure in the filter housing is positioned inside the pressure vessel. At least one perforated flow tube is positioned in the filter housing adjacent to the filter element and in fluid communication with the pressure vessel.
US08069987B2	Vacuum activated shipping container A shipping container having side walls, a bottom and a top defining an internal volume. The top is selectively displaceable for gaining access to the internal volume and for sealing the internal volume of the container. A valve drawing a vacuum on the internal volume from outside of the container is provided. The side walls are capable of contracting and expanding as a result of the pressure within the internal volume.
US08069986B2	Stackable container with angled neck finish A blow molded plastic container is disclosed that includes a bottom portion, a top portion and a body portion. In an embodiment, the body portion includes side portions and includes at least one side portion that has a support protrusion extending therefrom. The top portion is connected to the body portion and includes a dispensing opening. The bottom portion is connected to the side portions. In an embodiment, when the container is positioned to rest on a surface on a side portion, the centerline axis of the dispensing opening is angled with respect to a plane formed by said surface. Embodiments of a container in which the side portion opposing the side support portion includes a receiving portion for receiving at least a portion of the support protrusion from a second similarly configured container are also disclosed.
US08069983B2	Package for a saw blade A package for a saw blade comprises a housing defining a space for receiving a saw blade. A first cover is attached to the housing at a hinge, and is pivoted at the hinge so as to overlay the saw blade and retain the saw blade in the housing. The cover is dimensioned to extend over less than the entire saw blade. A compartment may be attached to the housing where a security device is located in the compartment. A second cover seals the security element in the compartment. A second cover may be attached to the housing at a second hinge, and pivoted at the second hinge so as to overlay the saw blade and retain the saw blade in the housing. The second cover is dimensioned so as to extend over less than the entire saw blade.
US08069980B2	Medical device package The present disclosure provides a package for a medical device containing a cavity for receiving the medical device, a first closure having a sealed portal therein and a second closure adjacent the first closure.
US08069979B2	Contact lens package and storage case, holder, and system and method of making and using A reusable holder for contact lens cases includes a base, at least one receptacle formed in the base configured to receive a contact lens case, and a time keeping device formed in the base. The time keeping device may include an indicator for the at least one receptacle that indicates a period of time that has lapsed since the contact lens case currently in the at least one receptacle was placed therein to denote a need to discard the contact lens case and a contact lens associated with the contact lens case.
US08069977B2	Slider bed conveyor The subject invention provides for a slider bed conveyor system that allows for lateral movement of a longitudinally moving conveyor of a fixed length. The system includes a first conveyor section having a first surface that extends between opposing first walls. A second conveyor section is operatively connected with the first conveyor section and includes a second surface that extends between opposing second walls. The first and second conveyor sections support the longitudinally moving conveyor and the second conveyor section is laterally moveable in relation to the first conveyor section.
US08069976B1	Conveyor belt deck and frame having a substantially vertical maintenance position A conveyor system apparatus including: a primary conveyor; and a conveying belt comprising: a belt deck comprising a conveyor belt; and a frame supporting the belt deck, the frame comprising a base and a deck support coupled to the base and the belt deck, the deck support movable between an operating position and a maintenance position. In as embodiment of the invention, the belt deck is cantilevered from the frame. Also, in an embodiment, the frame includes a motor for moving the deck support with respect to the base.
US08069975B2	Conveyor belt rip detection system The present invention provides a conveyor belt rip detection system with belts having rip detection inserts that can be more easily integrated into conveyor belts at low cost. These rip detection inserts do not adversely affect the durability of the conveyor belt and can be easily replaced in the event of belt damage. This rip detection system also provides a highly reliable early image of belt damage that can facilitate quick repair before extensive belt damage occurs. The present invention more specifically discloses a conveyor belt comprising (1) an elastomeric body having a load carrying surface and a parallel pulley engaging surface; (2) a reinforcement ply disposed within the elastomeric body; and (3) a multitude of rip detection inserts, wherein the rip detection inserts are spaced along the longitudinal length of the conveyor belt, wherein the rip detection inserts contain a multitude of rip detection wires that are comprised of a magnetically permeable material, wherein the rip detection wires are aligned in the rip detection inserts at a bias angle of 15° to 75° from being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the belt, and wherein the rip detection wires are spaced incrementally across the width of the belt.
US08069974B2	Transport device with a monitoring appliance and substrate treatment apparatus In a transport device, which comprises at least one endless conveyor guided around at least two guide rollers, a monitoring appliance for monitoring motion of a guide roller is positioned on at least one of the guide rollers. The monitoring appliance comprises a first contact element disposed on and electrically connected with the guide roller, and a second contact element disposed near the guide roller. The first and second contact elements are arranged relative to one another in such a way that an electrical contact between them occurs with every revolution of the guide roller, such that the electric potential of the guide roller is transmitted to the second contact element. Additionally, a substrate treatment apparatus comprising such transport device is disclosed.
US08069973B2	Flighting for a conveyor and apparatus for producing such flighting Flighting for screw conveyors of improved construction and resulting in better wear characteristics and carrying capacity is provided through the use of cold roll manufacturing and a roller which forms the flighting with a shape which moves some of the material being conveyed away from the outside peripheral edge of the flighting and thereby distributes wear over a larger portion of the surface of the flighting.
US08069969B2	Transport device A transport device for objects comprises a frame with a series of carriers that run mutually parallel and are pivotally coupled to an endless drivable moving track so as to enable displacement in a direction of displacement. At least some of the carriers comprise pusher shoes with guiding construction that are shiftable along the relevant carriers transversely of the direction of displacement using guide means arranged on the frame. The guiding construction comprises a guide pin with a guide body arranged thereon, wherein the guide pin comprises at least two portions of differing diameter, that the guide means comprise a guide channel in which the guide pin can engage, and that the depth of the guide channel progresses such that, at first engagement, the portion of the guide pin with the largest diameter engages in the guide channel, and with further engagement a portion with a smaller diameter.
US08069967B2	Coin sorting device A downstream side of a chute associated with at least one sorting hole is branched into a first chute and a second chute, through which coins ejected from the sorting hole are guided into first and second temporary storages, respectively. A route-switching mechanism is also provided that switches, between the two chutes, a route of the coins ejected from the sorting hole. The following control is conducted for the coins of a denomination to be ejected from the sorting hole. (i) Switching the route of the coins ejected from the sorting hole from the first chute to the second chute in appropriate timing to ensure that the last coin (CN) to be received into the first temporary storage enters the first chute, and (ii) controlling an ejection mechanism to eject, among coins following the last coin, all coins that have reached the ejection mechanism (6a) earlier that the above route-switching operation.
US08069959B2	Elevator active suspension utilizing respulsive magnetic force An elevator includes a car follower associated with each of a pair of guide rails, and carrying electromagnets which are spaced from electromagnets on an elevator car. The electromagnets on the car and car follower create a repulsive force tending to center the car between the car follower electromagnets associated with the two guide rails. Preferably, the car follower electromagnets are interconnected into a single car follower such that they move together.
US08069956B2	Elevator speed governor and elevator device An elevator governor capable of setting first overspeeds different between a rising time and a descending time by a simple configuration and at a low cost without the need for electric power supply from the outside. For this purpose, a weight that is moved in a predetermined direction by receiving a centrifugal force according to a travel speed at the rising time and the descending time of a car, an elastic body urged by movement of the weight having received the centrifugal force, and an actuating device actuates a stop switch when the weight having received the centrifugal force moves to a predetermined position against an urging force of the elastic body are provided, and also a switching device driven by the rising/descending operation of the car is provided. By the switching device, the length of the elastic body at the time when the actuating devices actuates the stop switch is switched to a length different according to the rising/descending direction of the car.
US08069955B2	Elevator and traction sheave of an elevator An elevator may include an elevator car, a counterweight, a set of hoisting ropes, and one or more rope pulleys. The car and counterweight may be suspended on the hoisting ropes. At least one rope pulley may include a solid surface including a plurality of rope grooves configured to receive at least one hoisting rope. Each rope groove may generally conform to a semi-circular shape and may include a groove bottom and sides. The at least one rope pulley may include a coating adhesively bonded to it. The coating may directly contact the at least one hoisting rope. A coating thickness may be less than or equal to about 3 mm. At the groove bottom of each rope groove, the coating thickness may be substantially less than half a thickness of the at least one hoisting rope. The coating may cover the groove bottom and sides of each rope groove.
US08069952B2	Fluid reservoir assembly A fluid reservoir assembly having a pan defining a drain opening and a plug disposed therein is disclosed. The pan includes a pair of ramps disposed on an inner surface thereof adjacent the drain opening. The plug includes a pair of wings in engagement with the ramps. The ramps increase in height relative to the inner surface of the pan along a first direction of rotation about the central axis. The plug is drawn into sealing engagement with an outer surface of the pan by rotating the plug in the first direction of rotation about the central axis thereby moving the wings up the ramps. The pan includes at least one stop to prevent over-rotation of the plug. The ramps define a recess to secure the wings in a closed position.
US08069948B2	Combination ladder, ladder components and methods of manufacturing same Ladder configurations and components are provided including an outer rail assembly which is longitudinally adjustable relative to an inner rail assembly. The outer rail assembly may include a pair of spaced apart outer rails each fixedly coupled to an associated sleeve or sliding mechanism. Each sleeve is in turn slidably coupled to an inner rail of the inner rail assembly. The outer rails may be positioned and oriented at an acute angle relative to the inner rails so as to provide an increased base distance between the two outer rails. Support structures are also disclosed which are coupled at multiple locations along a rail member and at least one location of a rung. Additionally, ladder hinges are disclosed including hinge components configured to effectively transmit loads from associated rails. In one embodiment the hinge may include a pinch prevention mechanism.
US08069947B2	Sound attenuation canopy A sound attenuation canopy for reducing levels of sound passing through an opening comprises a sound absorbing member. The sound absorbing member is comprised of a flexible sound absorbing material and has a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion extending between the first end and the second end. The first end is configured to attach to a periphery of the opening at a first location, the second end is configured to attach to a periphery of the opening at a second location and the intermediate portion is configured to be spaced apart from the opening. When the first end and the second end of the sound absorbing member are attached to the periphery of the opening, at least one side opening is at least partially defined by the intermediate portion and the perimeter of the opening, and a sound transmission flow path through open space between the opening and the side opening comprises at least one change of direction greater than 45 degrees.
US08069945B2	Method and apparatus for rear wheel steering control An apparatus (10) for use in turning steerable wheels of a vehicle (12) upon manual rotation of a steering wheel (14) comprises a front steering motor (36) coupled to a front steerable wheel (18) of the vehicle (12) for turning the front steerable wheel. A rear steering motor (66) is coupled to a rear steerable wheel (22) of the vehicle (12) for turning the rear steerable wheel. A position sensor (34) senses a rotational position of the steering wheel (14) and provides an output indicative of said rotational position. A controller (90) receives the output of the position sensor (34) and controls the front and rear steering motors (36, 66) to turn the front steerable wheel (22) in response to the output from the position sensor (34) indicating rotation of the steering wheel (14) in a first portion of a range of rotation of the steering wheel. The controller (90) also controls the front and rear steering motors (36, 66) to turn only the rear steerable wheel (22) in response to the output from the position sensor (34) indicating rotation of the steering wheel (14) in a second portion of the range of rotation of the steering wheel.
US08069944B2	Vehicle engine mount The invention relates to an engine mount for mounting an engine on a frame of an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle. The frame has two spaced apart frame elements. Further components of the utility vehicle, such as a gearbox and/or a vehicle axle, can be attached to the frame elements. An outer portion of an engine housing forms a mounting structure through which the engine is mounted on the frame elements, so that no external forces are applied to the engine or to the engine housing. The engine is mounted on the two frame elements using only the mounting structure.
US08069943B2	Vehicle pop-up hood apparatus A vehicle pop-up hood apparatus of the invention includes: an arm member whose proximal end portion is connected to a vehicle body so as to be pivotable about a first axis extending in the vehicle width direction; and a connection mechanism by which a hood of the vehicle is integrally connected to a tip side portion of the arm member. The hood is allowed to pivot relative to the arm member about a second axis extending in the vehicle width direction, and to move relative to the arm member in the vehicle longitudinal direction when the integrative connection, established by the connection mechanism, between the arm member and the hood is broken. The apparatus further includes an actuator that breaks the integrative connection, established by the connection mechanism, between the hood and the arm member, and that generates a lifting force that lifts the hood relative to the body.
US08069940B2	Method for controlling power flow A method for controlling power sources or energy sinks on an energy accumulator, in particular for a motor vehicle, is disclosed. Conventional systems for power supply to the motor vehicle modules are often excessively used, in particular in utility vehicles when an optimal availability is required. The present method includes measuring parameters characterizing the charge of the accumulator, and transmitting the results of a measurement to a control unit and in generating control signals for the energy sinks or the power sources by a control unit. The method makes it possible to eliminate a frequent cause of a low availability in motor vehicles.
US08069939B1	Beach cart system A beach cart system for transporting goods between locations is provided. The beach cart system comprises a lower cart portion having a first recessed area and a second recessed area. An upper cart portion having at least one storage bay is receivable within the first recessed area. A front cart portion having at least one insulated cup holder is receivable within the second recessed area. A plurality of wheels is secured to the lower cart portion. A motor is secured to the lower cart portion for driving the wheels. A handle for steering the beach cart system is attached to the lower cart portion and has controls for controlling operation of the motor.
US08069938B2	Energy efficient robotic system An energy efficient biped robotic system with passive-dynamic locomotion includes a body having a frame, an energy recapture mechanism, and a leg. The cyclical movement of the leg during passive-dynamic locomotion is transferred to a load through a mechanical energy storage mechanism, and the resulting oscillatory movement of the load is transferred by the mechanical energy input mechanism to an electric energy generating mechanism. The generated electric energy is transferred to the energy storage device for use by the robotic system.
US08069937B2	Polycrystalline diamond compact including a cemented tungsten carbide substrate that is substantially free of tungsten carbide grains exhibiting abnormal grain growth and applications therefor Embodiments relate to polycrystalline diamond compacts (“PDCs”) including a polycrystalline diamond (“PCD”) table that is substantially free of defects formed due to abnormal grain growth of tungsten carbide grains, and methods of fabricating such PDCs. In an embodiment, a PDC comprises a cemented tungsten carbide substrate including an interfacial surface that is substantially free of tungsten carbide grains exhibiting abnormal grain growth, and a PCD table bonded to the interfacial surface of the cemented tungsten carbide substrate. The PCD table includes a plurality of bonded diamond grains defining a plurality of interstitial regions. At least a portion of the interstitial regions includes a metal-solvent catalyst disposed therein. The PCD table may be substantially free of chromium or the PCD table and the cemented tungsten carbide substrate may each include chromium.
US08069935B1	Superabrasive element, and superabrasive compact and drill bit including same According to various aspects of the present invention, a superabrasive element includes a plurality of superabrasive grains (e.g., as diamond grains and/or cubic boron nitride grains). The superabrasive element further includes a binder constituent that bonds at least a portion of the superabrasive grains together. The binder constituent includes predominantly one or more inorganic-compound phases, such as boron or silicon compounds. Applications utilizing such superabrasive elements and methods of fabricating such superabrasive elements are also disclosed.
US08069934B2	Drill bits for drilling wells A device including a drill bit is disclosed. The bit preferably comprises lug members, joined by a support member, each lug member includes a through hole, bearings rotatably mounted on the lug members which bearings support cutter members, a sleeve with lubricant mounted upon the support member, a central channel within the sleeve whose lower end can be closed or opened with a reciprocating valve-plate, an annular piston snug-fitting between the sidewalls of sleeve and central channel, which piston has a discharge valve outletting the lubricant through the piston, a spring disposed in the sleeve, rods mounted in the sleeve and inserted through the holes, lubrication channels arranged in the lug members and communicating the lower portion of sleeve with the bearings for lubrication thereof. The rods are coupled to the piston and the valve-plate. Embodiments include shafts supporting the bearings. Some shafts are hollow and have a coolant system.
US08069932B2	Method and apparatus for determining formation pararmeters using a seismic tool array A method and apparatus for determining formation parameters including a seismic array for receiving seismic waves at plurality of depth simultaneously, thereby enabling a determination of a formation velocity by using a difference in the seismic waves received by the various portions of the array.
US08069931B2	System, method and apparatus for downhole system having integrated measurement while operating components A drill bit string has an internal steering module for measurement while drilling. A chassis is inserted into a modified drill collar from the axial end, rather than through the side. The chassis has external pockets machined into it from its outer diameter. The size of the longitudinally milled slots in the chassis is determined by the size of the components. The mud flow path is positioned off-center because of the component slots. The geometric shape of the flow path through the tool is shaped to optimize the flow area and maintain a wall thickness that can withstand the mud pressure. The wall thickness surrounding the flow area is proportional to the maximum hydrostatic pressure and the circulation pressure.
US08069926B2	Method of controlling flow through a drill string using a valve positioned therein A downhole valve comprises a tubular body and a valve member. The valve member is normally closed and in the closed position may prevent or restrict passage of a working fluid through the body. The valve member is movable to an open position, a first working fluid pressure differential being necessary to move the valve member from the closed position and a lower second working fluid pressure differential being necessary to maintain the valve member in the open position.
US08069922B2	Multiple activation-device launcher for a cementing head A multiple activation-device launching system for a cementing head comprises a launcher body and at least one launching chamber that are sized to receive one or more activation devices therein. The activation devices are launched into the principal process-fluid stream inside the cementing head, and may be darts, balls, bombs, canisters and combinations thereof. The launching chambers are in fluid communication with an external power source for launching the activation device into the principal process-fluid stream.
US08069921B2	Adjustable flow control devices for use in hydrocarbon production A flow control device may include a body having at least two flow paths configured to convey the fluid. The flow paths may be hydraulically isolated from one another in the body and at least one of the flow paths may be selectively occludable. In certain arrangements, a filtration element may be positioned upstream of one or more of the plurality of in-flow control devices. The flow paths may utilize features such as chamber and openings in order to impose a specified pressure drop on the fluid flowing thereacross.
US08069919B2	Systems, methods and apparatuses for monitoring and recovery of petroleum from earth formations A system for monitoring a location of a borehole for production of petroleum from an earth formation is provided. The system includes: an assembly including at least one of an injection conduit for injecting a thermal source into the formation and a production conduit for recovering material including the petroleum from the formation; a guide conduit attached to at least a portion of the at least one of the injection conduit and the production conduit, the guide conduit extending in a direction at least substantially parallel to the at least one of the injection conduit and the production conduit; and a detection source conduit insertable through the guide conduit and configured to dispose therein a detection source for detecting a location of the assembly in the formation. A method of monitoring a location of a borehole for production of petroleum from an earth formation is also provided.
US08069918B2	Magnetic slip retention for downhole tool A downhole tool, such as a packer or liner hanger, has a mandrel on which slips are disposed for engaging a surrounding tubular downhole. When the tool is being run in or out of the hole, at least one magnetic component magnetically retains the slip adjacent the mandrel so the slip can be held away from the surrounding tubular. When the tool is set downhole, the initial magnetic retention can be broken, and the slips can be moved away from the mandrel to engage the surface of the surrounding tubular.
US08069917B2	Gripper assembly for downhole tools A gripper assembly for anchoring a tool within a downhole passage and for possibly assisting movement of the tool within the passage. The gripper assembly includes an elongated mandrel and flexible toes that can be radially displaced to grip onto the surface of the passage. The toes are displaced by the interaction of a driver slidable on the mandrel and a driver interaction element on the toes. In one embodiment, the toes are displaced by the interaction of rollers and ramps that are longitudinally movable with respect to one another. In another embodiment, the toes are displaced by the interaction of toggles that rotate with respect to the toes.
US08069916B2	System and methods for tubular expansion Methods and apparatus enable expanding tubing in a borehole of a hydrocarbon well. According to some embodiments, an expander device includes a collapsible swage formed of collets, at least one slip arrangement and a hydraulic jack to stroke the swage through tubing to be expanded. In operation, expanding tubing may include securing an expansion tool to the tubing, lowering the tool and tubing into a borehole, actuating a collapsible expander of the expansion tool to an extended configuration, and supplying fluid pressure to a jack coupled to the expander thereby moving the expander through the tubing which is held by at least one of first and second tubing holding devices disposed respectively ahead of the expander and behind the expander.
US08069915B2	Non-metallic whipstock A whipstock that is totally to substantially non-metallic is made preferably from a composite material. The body can include one or more stiffeners that are also preferably non-metallic. The mounting lug for the window mill can also be non-metallic. A metallic base can be used to connect to an anchor. Optionally the ramp can include a plate that is optionally internally supported. Alternatively the ramp can include hardened inserts or other wear resistant material. Composite materials that can be molded are preferred.
US08069913B2	Method and apparatus for detecting acoustic activity in a subsurface formation A method of monitoring acoustic activity in a formation from a wellbore includes positioning a flow manipulation device into the wellbore, the flow manipulation device defining a flow path through which fluid may flow. Fluid is then pumped into the wellbore and through the manipulation device. A sensor disposed near the manipulation device is then coupled to the formation, the formation is fractured with fluid, and acoustic events in the formation are detected with the sensor.
US08069909B2	Heat dissipation device A heat dissipation device includes a first heat sink thermally contacting an electronic component, a second heat sink connecting to the first heat sink, and a heat pipe thermally connecting the first heat sink with the second heat sink. The first heat sink has a first base which defines a cutout at a lateral side thereof. The second heat sink has a second base. The heat pipe includes an evaporating portion disposed on the base, a condensing portion disposed on the second base and a connecting portion interconnecting the evaporating portion with the condensing portion. An insert portion protrudes from the second base and is engagingly inserted into the cutout. The connecting portion of the heat pipe extends through the insert portion.
US08069904B2	Method for producing hot strips from lightweight steel In a method for producing hot strips from a deformable lightweight steel which includes as main elements Fe, Mn, Si and Al, melt is cast close to its final dimension in a horizontal continuous strip casting installation under a protective gas to form a pre-strip between 6 and 20 mm, and the temperature of the pre-strip is adjusted after complete solidification and before the beginning of a hot-rolling process. The pre-strip is passed through a device under a protective gas for homogenization in concert with a selective maintenance of the temperature, cooling or heating, and subsequently subjected to a hot-rolling process having at least one pass with a total degree of deformation of at least 50%, and is then reeled as a hot strip following the cooling process. The hot-rolling process is executed in-line or in decoupled manner depending on the ratio of casting speed to rolling speed.
US08069900B2	Composite tubular structure Pipe-in-pipe composite tubular structure having between layers a hardenable filling material associating the layers to enhance the structure mechanical performance mostly in collapse. Prior to harden the filling material, the composite tubular structure can be longitudinally deployable between a folded configuration and a deployed configuration, and has a radial dimension increasing between the folded configuration and the deployed configuration. Such structure is well fitted to be used in oil-well downhole structure and casings or underwater pipeline/flowline.
US08069893B2	Cutting mechanism for dry film laminator A cutting mechanism for dry film laminator includes a main base connected to a dry film laminator. The main base has a cutting space defined therein. The main base has two rollers disposed thereon and located beside the cutting space. The two rollers flatly guide a film above the cutting space. A film-carrying device is movably disposed on the main base. The film-carrying device includes a suction member movably disposed thereon. The suction member has at least one annular groove defined therein and corresponding to a shape of a wafer. A cutting device is movably disposed below the main base. The cutting device includes a film cutter movably disposed thereon. The cutting device includes an elevating device disposed thereon for moving the film cutter upward/downward. The cutting device includes a motor disposed thereon for rotating the film cutter.
US08069891B2	Tire for heavy vehicles A tire having a radial carcass reinforcement comprising a crown reinforcement formed of at least two working crown layers of inextensible reinforcement elements, which are crossed from one ply to the other, forming angles of between 10° and 45° with the circumferential direction, which itself is topped radially by a tread, said tread being joined to two beads by means of two sidewalls and at least two working layers having different axial widths. At least one first profiled element P of rubber mix separates one working layer from at least one end of a second, axially narrower, layer, said profiled element P being radially separated at least in part from the liner C of said axially narrower working layer by a second profiled element of rubber mix G, said first and second profiled elements of rubber mix P and G and said liner C having secant moduli of elasticity under tension at 10% elongation MP, MG, MC respectively such that MC≧MG>MP, said tire additionally comprising in each shoulder at least one layer of reinforcement elements, which are parallel to each other in the additional layer and are oriented substantially perpendicular relative to the reinforcement elements of the working layer radially adjacent to said additional layer, and the axially inner end of said additional layer being radially adjacent to the edge of at least one working crown layer.
US08069890B2	Hub bore mounted central tire inflation valve system A system and apparatus for installing a central tire inflation (CTI) valve containing member into the hub bore opening of a wheel so as to be in communication with an air passageway hub port in the vehicle hub. Preferably, the CTI valve containing member includes a CTI valve sealed to a hub bore manifold with the hub bore manifold being mounted to the wheel disc and/or the vehicle hub. The hub bore manifold seals against the vehicle hub and the wheel hub bore surface (and/or the front face of the wheel disc). An air passageway in the manifold runs from the vehicle hub port to the CTI valve, and other air passageway(s) connect the CTI valve to the tire interior, such that air can travels from the vehicle hub to and from the tire cavity by way of the manifold and CTI valve.
US08069889B2	Pneumatic tire Protrusions 11 are provided in a buttress portion 20, the protrusions 11 are composed of a center portion 11a extending from the groove bottom 4 of the transverse grooves 2 toward the tire rotational axis and side portions 11b, the center portion 11a and the side portions 11b are integrally formed, the side portions 11b extend from the same cross-sectional height as, that of the center portion toward the tire rotational axis, the protrusions 11 extend at least to a virtual line 22 in which the inner most belt layer 21a is virtually extended to the buttress portion 20, and the width W of the side portions 11b is 7% to 30% of the depth D of the transverse grooves 2, and the thickness L of the protrusions 11 on the virtual line 22 is 1 mm to 10 mm.
US08069887B2	Ice flap device for a refrigerator An ice flap device (10) for a refrigerator comprises a flap unit (14) movable between an open position and a closed position, which unit releases a dispenser aperture for dispensing ice in its open position and blocks the dispenser aperture against dispensing ice in its closed position, as well as a motorized drive mechanism for driving the flap unit (14) between its open and closed position. According to the invention the drive mechanism comprises an a.c. motor (12) as well as a first electrical switch (26), which lies in the supply circuit of the a.c. motor and switches depending on the introduction of a receptacle into an ice dispenser compartment of the refrigerator, and by means of which the a.c. motor (12) can be turned on when the receptacle is introduced into the ice dispenser compartment for a movement of the flap unit (14) from the closed position in the direction of the open position.
US08069883B2	Beverage supply device An object of the present invention is to provide a beverage supply device in which a setting operation for each beverage is simplified and in which supply of a wrong beverage can be avoided in advance. The beverage supply device executes a beverage supply operation of discharging a beverage material and a diluting liquid into a cup to mix the beverage material and the diluting liquid. The device includes: an information output section of a flavor card which retains inherent information such as a dilution ratio of a beverage; an information detecting section which reads out the inherent information of the beverage retained by this information output section; and a control unit which executes the beverage supply operation based on the inherent information read out by this information detecting section.
US08069881B1	Spring and spring processing method A method for residual stress enhancement for a coil spring includes radially expanding at least a select axial portion of the coil spring to remove residual tensile stress from the spring inner diameter and induce residual compressive stress in the spring inner diameter. The spring is expanded by radial force on the inner diameter and/or by a helical unwinding force induced by rotating at least one end of the spring relative to the other end of the spring. A tool includes a spring expansion portion and, optionally, a diameter control portion. Cylindrical, conical and/or beehive springs are processed to enhance residual stress.
US08069880B2	Pressure cast concrete or mortar lined steel pipes and methods of making the same Pressure cast lined steel pipes comprise an annular concrete or mortar liner along an inside diameter, and a metal shell surrounding the liner, wherein the liner is in direct contact with the metal shell. The wall thickness of the liner can be from 10 to 50 times the thickness of the metal shell. The pipe may be coated with a dielectric material. A mold assembly used to form the pipe includes an annular concrete or mortar composition chamber formed between the metal shell and an inner mold member. Pressurized water is used in the mold assembly to pressurize the concrete or mortar composition and exert a desired pressure force onto the metal shell while the composition cures in the mold. Once a desired degree of cure is achieved, the pressure is removed causing the metal shell to exert a desired compression force onto the cured liner.
US08069875B2	Ventilation member, ventilation member kit, and vented housing and vented tank using them A ventilation member and a ventilation member kit are provided that can extend the time until fogging will be produced in a housing and also can shorten the time until the produced fogging will be cleared up even when the interior of the housing has been fogged. A vented housing and a vented tank using them are also provided. A ventilation member includes: a first gas permeable membrane, a second gas permeable membrane, and an absorbing layer allowing a gas passing through an opening of a housing or a tank to permeate therethrough, with the ventilation member being fixed to the opening; a support body for supporting the first gas permeable membrane, the second gas permeable membrane, and the absorbing layer; and a first one-way valve disposed so as to cover the first gas permeable membrane. The first gas permeable membrane and the second gas permeable membrane are disposed in such a manner that the gas permeates through the gas permeable membranes independently of each other. The second gas permeable membrane and the absorbing layer are disposed in such a manner that the gas permeates through the second gas permeable membrane and the absorbing layer successively. The absorbing layer contains a water absorbent.
US08069874B2	System for hot tapping An assembly and method for tapping into a pressurized tubular that is adapted for use in a subsea environment via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection.
US08069872B2	Automatic control device of foldable tent The present invention provides an automatic control device of foldable tent connecting to several roof strut sets wherein, said control device is of a central standing base containing a sliding hub, a spring and a tappet roller at inside. Cooperating to an extra force exerting on the central standing base to press it down relative to the roof strut sets, the sliding hub brings the tappet roller continuously to go down and up, by means of the special design between the spring and all the pushing lugs and hook slots of the tappet roller, positioning the sliding hub with the locking pin of the central standing base can be carried out, so that the tent can be opened and kept in open configuration automatically; when repeatedly press down the central standing base relative to the roof strut sets, the tent can be closed.
US08069868B2	Umbrella apparatus A lawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizes cold cathode ray tubes, light emitting diodes (LED's), or florescent lights, to provide relatively bright outdoor light for reading and other activities that require relatively high light intensities is provided. In one embodiment, a modular, electrically powered lawn or patio umbrella in which lighting systems, such as those utilizing cold cathode tubes, LED's, or florescent lights; cooling systems, such as those utilizing electric fans or misting systems; and motorized retraction systems; can be selectively interchanged is provided.
US08069866B2	Apparatus and method for cleaning beverage lines Conduit can connect a beverage line in fluid communication with a supply of first fluid. A pump operates to allow a second fluid to enter the conduit in a predetermined proportion relative to the first fluid. A primary first fluid control means and a secondary first fluid control means are selectively and independently movable between respective open positions in which the first fluid can flow into the conduit and respective closed positions in which flow of the first fluid into the conduit is substantially prevented. In use, the primary first fluid control means is in the open position, and the secondary first fluid control means selectively alternates between the open position and the closed position so as to create a pulsed secondary flow of the first fluid into the conduit for enhanced cleaning.
US08069861B2	Method and apparatus for preparing a finished tobacco product including special form casings and sheet configurations A finished tobacco product is formed by a set of pre-rolled sheets. In one embodiment a form casing is used which includes at least two portions—a non-smokable portion along with a container portion which includes tobacco filler material.
US08069855B2	Respiratory mask A respiratory mask includes: a rigid mask frame having a ring portion, a loop portion spaced apart from the ring portion, and rib portions interconnecting the ring portion and the loop portion, the rigid mask frame defining a frame space; and a single piece of a flexible mask body having a flat central portion, a surrounding portion extending outwardly and curvedly from the flat central portion, and a peripheral end portion flaring from the surrounding portion. The flat central portion is formed with an annular flange sleeved on the ring portion. The peripheral end portion is disposed outwardly of the frame space. The surrounding portion extends into the frame space and is restrained by the rib portions and the loop portion of the mask frame.
US08069854B2	Fault diagnosis in CPAP and NIPPV devices A ventilation device for non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment of a patient has a gas flow generator, a gas delivery circuit optionally including a humidifier, a controller and sensors monitoring values of operational parameters of the device. The device further includes one or more relationships stored in data storage of the controller relating combinations of parameter values as being indicative of fault conditions of the device operation, the sensors and/or the fault detection process.
US08069852B2	Method and apparatus for maintaining and monitoring sleep quality during therapeutic treatments The present invention monitors and interprets physiological signals and spontaneous breathing events to detect the onset of arousal. Once the onset of arousal is determined, the present invention determines adjustments that are needed in the operation of a therapeutic device to avoid or minimize arousals. In one embodiment, the present invention includes one or more sensors which detect a patient's physiological parameters, a controller which monitors and determines the onset of arousal based on the physiological variables received from the sensor, and a therapeutic treatment device which is controlled by the controller. The sensor can be a combination of one or more devices which are able to monitor a physiological parameter that is used by the present invention to determine the onset of arousal or the onset of a sleep disorder. The sensors can be integrated into one unit or may operate independent of the others.
US08069851B2	Aeorosolization apparatus with air inlet shield An aerosolization apparatus comprises a housing defining a chamber having a plurality of air inlets. The chamber contains an aerosolizable pharmaceutical formulation or is sized to receive a receptacle which contains an aerosolizable pharmaceutical formulation. A shield covers at least one of the air inlets or a portion of at least one of the air inlets. The shield prevents blockage of the air inlet by a user grasping the apparatus and inadvertently covering the air inlet. An end section is associated with the housing. The end section is sized and shaped to be received in a user's mouth or nose so that the user may inhale through the end section to inhale aerosolized pharmaceutical formulation that has exited the receptacle.
US08069850B2	Fluid dispenser device A fluid dispenser device including at least one individual reservoir (21) containing a single dose of fluid, such as powder, opening means (40) being provided for opening an individual reservoir (21) each time the device is actuated, the device including a dispenser chamber (70) for receiving the dose of fluid contained in a reservoir (21) after said reservoir has been opened, an inhalation endpiece (15), and an inhalation trigger system that comprises a deformable air-chamber (61) that co-operates with said dispenser chamber (70), said dispenser chamber being displaceable between a rest position and an inhalation position, such that during inhalation through said inhalation endpiece (15), said air chamber (61) is deformed, thereby displacing said dispenser chamber from said rest position to said inhalation position.
US08069847B2	Limb pocket spacer An archery bow comprises a riser portion with upper and lower ends, and at least one bow limb portion extending from the riser. The archery bow further includes at least one spacer member positioned between the riser portion and the bow limb portion, such that the limb portion contacts the spacer member. The spacer member has a longitudinal axis and a width axis, and includes at least one contact surface for contacting the limb portion with a bottom portion extending along the longitudinal axis underneath the contact surface. The contact surface extends beyond the bottom portion along the width axis to provide increased surface area contact with the bow limb portion.
US08069846B2	Exhaust gas recirculation valve An exhaust gas recirculation valve is fabricated by fitting a valve head 24 and a cover 32 enclosing a valve rod 25 into a supporting section 31 provided at the tip of the valve rod 25, and caulking the supporting section 31 to secure the valve rod 25 and the cover 32 to the supporting section 31.
US08069843B2	Lubrication apparatus of fuel pump driven by fuel pump drive cam A lubrication apparatus of a fuel pump driven by a fuel pump drive cam, which lubricates a tappet moving reciprocally at an interior circumference of a fuel pump adaptor and the fuel pump operating the tappet, may include a cylinder head provided with a camshaft, an oil supplying passage formed in the camshaft as a hollow type so as to take oil to the interior of the camshaft, at least an oil branch passage formed to a cam lobe of the fuel pump drive cam so as to be communicated with the oil supplying passage, and a circular groove formed at the interior circumference of the fuel pump adaptor and corresponding to an injection direction of the oil supplied from the at least an oil branch passage.
US08069837B2	Intake control device for internal combustion engine An intake control device for an internal combustion engine includes an intake air induction duct, a housing, a valve, and a gasket. The housing is received in a receiving chamber of the intake air induction duct. The valve is received in the housing for opening and closing an intake passage defined in the housing. The gasket is mounted on one of (a) a position between the intake air induction duct and the attachment surface, and (b) a position between the housing and a wall surface of the receiving chamber. The housing opposes the attachment surface and is spaced from the attachment surface by a predetermined clearance. The gasket has an elastic deformation portion that is positioned between the housing and the attachment surface.
US08069836B2	Fuel injection stream parallel opposed multiple electrode spark gap for fuel injector Generally, a multiple electrode spark gap fuel injector and methods of utilizing a multiple electrode spark gap fuel injector for internal combustion engines. Specifically, at least one pair of electrodes having a corresponding pair of electrode ends radially located and axially located in relation to an amount of dispersed fuel to increase efficiency of fuel combustion.
US08069835B2	Internal combustion engine and operating method therefor The present disclosure provides an internal combustion engine having an engine housing with at least one cylinder that has diameter less than about 3 inches. A fuel injector is provided and disposed at least partially within the at least one cylinder, and includes a plurality of outlet orifices having a diameter between about 50 microns and about 125 microns, or about 0.05 millimeters and about 0.125 millimeters. The injector may include more than one set of separately controllable fuel outlet orifices, at least one of which could have an average diameter between about 0.05 millimeters and about 0.125 millimeters. The disclosure further provides a method of operating an internal combustion engine. The method includes the steps of rotating an engine crank shaft of the engine at a speed greater than about 5000 revolutions per minute, injecting a quantity of fuel into each of the cylinders, and burning at least every fourth piston stroke a sufficient quantity of the injected fuel to yield a brake mean effective pressure of at least about 200 lbs. per square inch.
US08069834B2	Engine oil level management system and method of assembling engines in vehicles An oil level management system for a vehicle has an oil pan configured to contain oil and to be mountable to an engine block with a baffle extending transverse to the axis of rotation of the engine crankshaft when the oil pan is so mounted. The baffle is configured to partially define a first oil reservoir and a second oil reservoir, as well as an oil flow opening such that the oil reservoirs are in fluid communication with one another and are characterized by respective first and second oil levels within the pan. The second reservoir drains to the first reservoir when the engine is running and when the engine block and crankshaft are positioned on the vehicle with the axis of rotation tilted from horizontal. The first oil level is lower than the second oil level to avoid oil contact with the crankshaft.
US08069830B2	Rigid primer bulb pump A hand operated primer pump for small marine or other engines generally spark ignition engines used on stern drive boats that prevents transfer of hydrocarbons into the atmosphere. The primer generally mimics and replaces prior art rubber primer bulbs in general shape and possibly color, although it can be made in any shape or color. It generally contains a pump that delivers a precise measured amount of fuel with each stroke of the actuator. The primer can have an ergonomically designed actuator that creates the farthest distance from a fulcrum point for maximum leverage and hence, maximum ease of use. The primer is generally designed with a continuous molded fuel path to seal any source of hydrocarbon leakage as well as being made from materials that prevent transfer of hydrocarbons to the atmosphere.
US08069828B2	Intake valve closing hydraulic adjuster A mechanism (40) for enabling an engine cylinder valve (18) to close at various times during engine cycles has a hydraulic actuator (58) and a control valve (60) controlling the hydraulic actuator a) to constrain a pivot axis of a valve rocker (52) against relocation while the cylinder valve is being forced increasingly open, and b) to release the constraint after the cylinder valve has been forced open for enabling the pivot axis to relocate so that the intake valve can close early thereby providing early IVC. A hydraulic snubber (64) snubs closing motion of the cylinder valve through a scheduling geometry to a hydraulic accumulator (62). The control valve opens to the accumulator to allow the rocker pivot axis to relocate and provide early IVC and closes to return the pivot axis to a location that doesn't provide early IVC.
US08069825B1	Circulating fluidized bed boiler having improved reactant utilization A method of operating a furnace having a circulating fluidized bed is described. Fuel is combusted in the fluidized bed. The fluidized bed includes a dense bed portion and a lower furnace portion adjacent to the dense bed portion. Reactant is injected in the furnace to reduce the emission of at least one combustion product in the flue gas. Secondary air is injected into the furnace above the dense bed. Using this method, the amount of reactant needed to reduce the emission of the at least one combustion product is reduced.
US08069824B2	Circulating fluidized bed boiler and method of operation A circulating fluidized bed boiler having improved reactant utilization. The circulating fluidized bed boiler includes a circulating fluidized bed having a dense bed portion and a lower furnace portion above the dense bed portion. At least one secondary air and recirculated flue gas injection device is downstream of the circulating fluidized bed for providing mixing of the reactant and the flue gas in the furnace above the dense bed. The present invention also includes methods of operating a fluidized bed boiler.
US08069822B2	Pet exercise wheel assembly having light-emitting device A pet exercise wheel assembly having a light-emitting device includes an exercise wheel made of a material pervious to light. The exercise wheel has a tapered sleeve projecting from a center of the exercise wheel and is axially formed with a penetrating channel. A light-emitting device has a casing coupled to the tapered sleeve of the exercise wheel. The light-emitting device has a circuit board formed with a central hole and provided with at least a lamp, a battery, a rocker switch, and an IC chip that are electrically connected with each other, with the lamp exposed at an exterior of the casing. Thereby, rotation of the exercise wheel drives the light-emitting device to rotate, so that the rocker switch in the light-emitting device is rocked to close a loop of the circuit board, thus causing the lamp to blink and provide a visual entertaining effect.
US08069820B2	Pet shelter construction The instant invention is directed to a pet shelter for domestic pets. More specifically, the instant invention is a pet shelter constructed from a plurality of plastic panels each having integral connectors. The panels are constructed and arranged to be shipped and/or stored in a nested or stacked arrangement to reduce space requirements and shipping costs. The integral fasteners formed onto the panels intermesh to allow the panels to be snapped together without the need for additional fasteners or tools.
US08069817B2	Showerhead electrodes and showerhead electrode assemblies having low-particle performance for semiconductor material processing apparatuses Showerhead electrodes for a semiconductor material processing apparatus are disclosed. An embodiment of the showerhead electrodes includes top and bottom electrodes bonded to each other. The top electrode includes one or more plenums. The bottom electrode includes a plasma-exposed bottom surface and a plurality of gas holes in fluid communication with the plenum. Showerhead electrode assemblies including a showerhead electrode flexibly suspended from a top plate are also disclosed. The showerhead electrode assemblies can be in fluid communication with temperature-control elements spatially separated from the showerhead electrode to control the showerhead electrode temperature. Methods of processing substrates in plasma processing chambers including the showerhead electrode assemblies are also disclosed.
US08069815B2	Resist pipe and resist coating device A resist pipe and a resist coating device are provided. Support portions are provided at an inner wall of a resist supply portion towards a cross-sectional center of the resist supply portion from three locations. The support portions are provided at equal intervals at the inner wall, and the leading ends thereof extend to positions at which a circular rod-shaped liquid level sensor portion is nipped by a peripheral surface of the liquid level sensor portion. In this manner, the support portions support the liquid level sensor portion from three directions, and gaps are formed between the liquid level sensor portion and the inner wall of the resist supply portion. The liquid level sensor portion inside the resist supply portion is supported by the support portions such that a sensing portion is substantially in the same plane as an inlet aperture of the resist supply portion.
US08069813B2	Wafer electroless plating system and associated methods A dry-in/dry-out system is disclosed for wafer electroless plating. The system includes an upper zone for wafer ingress/egress and drying operations. Proximity heads are provided in the upper zone to perform the drying operations. The system also includes a lower zone for electroless plating operations. The lower zone includes an electroless plating apparatus that implements a wafer submersion by fluid upwelling method. The upper and lower zones of the system are enclosed by a dual-walled chamber, wherein the inner wall is a chemically inert plastic and the outer wall is a structural metal. The system interfaces with a fluid handling system which provides the necessary chemistry supply and control for the system. The system is ambient controlled. Also, the system interfaces with an ambient controlled managed transfer module (MTM).
US08069808B1	Buoyancy control systems and methods for submersible objects A buoyancy control system comprises a housing and first and second pistons movably supported by the housing. In a shallow mode, displacement of the first piston alters a buoyancy of the buoyancy control system. In a deep mode, displacement of the first and second pistons alters the buoyancy of the buoyancy control system.
US08069807B2	Floating drive-on watercraft docking system The floating drive-on docking system for a watercraft uses a main floatation portion where the watercraft rests when loaded and a pivoting entry portion for creating a low loading angle between the watercraft and the floating drive-on docking system, resulting in only a small amount of propulsion from the watercraft being required to load onto the docking system. The pivoting entry portion has entry features, either rollers or raised bumps, that remain above the waterline when not engaged by the watercraft to keep the loading surfaces free from marine growth that can harm the hull of a watercraft. Wide side guides on the pivoting entry portion assist in positioning the craft for loading onto the docking system.
US08069806B1	Connectorless sea train The invention is directed towards a watercraft module and a connectorless sea train including two or more of the watercraft modules. The watercraft modules in the sea train are formed in a bow-to-stern relationship and are held together by compression forces. Each module includes a hull having a bow end having a substantially V-shaped profile, and a stern end having either a continuous end or a substantially V-shaped notch cut therein. The size and shape of the substantially V-shaped notch is substantially similar to the size and shape of the substantially V-shaped profile of the bow end. In the sea train having two or more watercraft modules, the substantially V-shaped profile of the bow end of a trailing watercraft is received in the substantially V-shaped notch at the stern of a leading watercraft.
US08069802B2	Method and apparatus for controlling a marine vessel One embodiment of the invention comprises a method for controlling a marine vessel having a first steerable propulsor, a corresponding first reversing device, a second steerable propulsor and a corresponding second reversing device. The method comprises receiving a first vessel control signal corresponding to a rotational movement and no translational movement command, generating at least a first actuator control signal and a second actuator control signal in response to the first vessel control signal, coupling the first actuator control signal to and controlling the first steerable propulsor and the second steerable propulsor, and coupling the second actuator control signal to and controlling the first reversing device and the second reversing device. The method creates rotational forces on the marine vessel with substantially no translational forces on the marine vessel.
US08069800B2	Stealth armed surface ship The invention relates to an armed stealth surface vessel (1) comprising a hull (2), a deck (5, 6) and superstructures (3). The inventive vessel is equipped with sensors, transmitters, arms and, optionally, handling means. The invention is characterized in that the outer casing (4) of the deadworks comprises walls which are all inclined inwards such that the outer faces thereof are oriented upwards and form an angle that is greater than or equal to 20° with the vertical at least above a line located 5 m above the waterline and, along at least 50% of the length of the vessel, above a line located less than one meter above the waterline. The invention is also characterized in that that the essentially-vertical joint lines between two adjacent walls are inclined inwards and form an angle of more than 20° with the vertical. The invention is further characterized in that the sensors and transmitters, the arms and the handling means are concealed or can be concealed in or under the outer casing of the deadworks.
US08069795B1	Grip latch and hinge mechanism for a flip table A flip-type nesting table includes a frame, a tabletop that pivots between an operative position and a storage position and a hinge and latch assembly that controls the movement of the tabletop between the operative position and the storage position. The hinge and latch assembly includes a pair of hinge brackets that each mount to a rear cross-member. Each hinge bracket includes a front latch that engages a front cross-member to hold the tabletop in the operative position. A rear latch is operable to engage the rear cross-member to hold the tabletop in its upright, storage position. The hinge and latch assembly includes a pull handle coupled to a cross bar that can be used to simultaneously move the latch members to allow movement of the tabletop between the usage position and the storage position.
US08069794B2	Portable computer desk with power generator A portable desk with a generator for providing electrical power to a computer or other electrical device that is collapsibly foldable to a compact form wherein successive sections comprise a back panel, a desk top panel hinged from the top edge of the back panel, two side panels hinged from the side edges of the back panel, two bottom panels hinged from the bottom edges of the side panels and two movable foot treadle panels hinged to the bottom edge of the back panel. The generator is removably attached to the top panel and is connected to the foot treadles so the generator is operated by actuating the foot treadles. The power generator comprises an electrical connection, such as a USB connector, for a computer or other electrical device.
US08069793B2	Universally mountable model train A model railroad train or other vehicle capable of operating in a vertical plane, inverted, or at any other desired angle of inclination.
US08069790B1	Methods and apparatus for attachment adapter for a projectile Methods and apparatus for mounting a secondary system on a projectile according to various aspects of the present invention operate in conjunction with a collar. The collar is adapted to at least partially receive a fuze assembly or other projectile structure within the collar. The collar may be adapted to attach to a cover.
US08069786B2	Printing groups comprising at least two cooperating cylinders and radially movable bearing units Printing groups are each comprised of at least two cooperating cylinders, each of which is mounted in a bearing unit that radially displaces its associated cylinder. At least one of these bearing units is provided with an actuator which is controlled, or regulated by a control unit. An inking unit, which encompasses at least one ink application roller, is provided for each printing group. At least one of the cylinders of the printing group, and an ink application roller of the associated inking unit can optionally be placed against each other. A dampening unit, comprising at least one dampening fluid application roller, is also provided. At least one of the cylinders of the printing group and a dampening fluid application roller of the dampening unit are also optionally placed against each other. The at least one actuator for the bearing unit is remotely controlled and is embodied either as a hydraulic actuator or as a pneumatic actuator.
US08069783B2	Printing screens, frames therefor and printing screen units A printing screen, comprising a sheet, at least sections of at least one pair of opposite edges of which are folded such as to define attachment elements, and a printing screen unit including at least one pair of interface members attachable to the attachment elements at the at least one pair of opposite edges of the sheet.
US08069780B2	Modular baler plunger A large square baler includes a crop compressing plunger constructed in a modular fashion comprising a main support frame to which right and left plunger end sections and a plurality of identical individual cast plunger middle sections are bolted in side-by-side, spaced relationship to each other, with the space between adjacent sections defining a pathway through which a twine-delivery needle may pass to deliver twine to a knotter assembly when it is desired to secure a formed bale by tying lengths of twine about the bale.
US08069778B2	Milk foaming device The invention relates to a milk foaming device with a mixing chamber, which is arranged downstream of a steam supply pipe and which is connected to a milk and/or milk/air supply pipe, and a discharge device for the mixture arranged downstream of the mixing chamber, which has a number of discharge channels. The emitted milk foam flow is to be improved. To achieve this the discharge openings of the discharge channels are sloped at an angle to the cross-sectional plane of the discharge channel and the slope angles of the discharge openings of the discharge channels have the same vertex.
US08069775B2	Brewing apparatus and process for making infusions or beverages, particularly espresso A brewing apparatus (1,101) for making infusions, particularly espresso, including a pumping unit (2,102) for pumping water from a tank (3,103) to a water superheating boiler (6,106), wherein the boiler (6,106) has a lower container (11,111) closed at its top by a perforated cover (12,112) allowing superheated water to flow into the lower container under pressure, the lower container (11,111) and top cover (12,112) being a plastic material. The brewing process includes a first step in which water is fed and pumped at a first feed velocity, a second step in which the velocity is increased to increase pressure in the chamber; the first velocity being lower than the second velocity. The upper boiler body (112) has the closing face (112a) of such a shape as to receive a corresponding single-dose pod (100) packed in paper, aluminum or another biodegradable material containing coffee or another flavor base in general.
US08069771B1	Active armor systems An improvement in an electric armor system designed to prevent, among other things, a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) from penetrating the hull of a fighting vehicle. The system includes a self-clearing electrode that will make the system less vulnerable to non-plasma objects that might otherwise short out the active armor electrodes. It optionally further allows for the early initiation of current flow at the point of penetration making it even easier to defeat incoming threats by allowing more time to break-up an incoming plasma jet.
US08069767B2	Gun mount and ejection system An armament system for aircraft includes gun mount and ejection system for a machine gun. The gun mount and ejection system includes an ejection chute assembly including a hopper positioned intermediate the uprights of a carriage supporting the machine gun.
US08069765B2	Stand for supporting a hand-held powered operated band saw A method and apparatus for converting a portable band saw to an upright stationary table band saw includes a stand having a base, at least one vertically extending side wall, and a top. A work piece support surface can include an opening through which one run of a closed loop saw blade of the portable band saw can pass when the portable band saw is mounted in a supporting relationship with respect to the stand. A switch mounted on the stand operates the portable band saw independent of the finger trigger on the handle. The on/off switch is connected to a plug engaged by the portable band saw when mounted in the stand. The plug is engagable within a socket of the band saw and is electrically connected to bypass the finger trigger of the portable band saw and to create a circuit through the on/off switch.
US08069760B2	Method and apparatus to remove cast from an individual A method for installing a fiberglass cast on and removing the cast from an individual includes an openended pliable thin-walled polymer guide track and cutting tool designed to track along said guide track to cut the cast and to prevent, while a cast is being removed, injury to the individual.
US08069757B2	Cast-cutter A cast-cutter for use in removing a cast from a patient comprises a body (20), cutting means (18, 148, 230) supported by the body (20), and a protection member (16, 204, 206, 236, 244) supported by the body (20) and adapted to be positioned between the cutting means (18, 148, 230) and the patient, to protect the skin of the patient. In one disclosed embodiment the cutting means cuts a cast by a shearing action. In another disclosed embodiment the cutting means cuts a cast by an abrading action.
US08069755B2	Devices and methods for cutting a vertebral implant The present application is directed to devices and methods for cutting a spinal implant. In one embodiment, the device includes a handle and a head. The handle is sized to receive a predetermined length of the implant. A head is rotatably attached to the handle and includes a blade. After the implant is inserted into the handle, the head is rotated causing the blade to move around the implant and cut an excessive length from the predetermined length.
US08069752B1	Quick-release device for umbilical The present invention is a quick-release device for engaging an umbilical. The device includes a coupling base and arms. The coupling base has a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the coupling base is configured for attachment to a valve known in the prior art which is used within rescue chambers. The first arm is pivotally connected with the top surface of the coupling base. The second arm is pivotally connected with the top surface of the base. Each arm defines anterior portions to engage the umbilical. The first arm and second arm are configured to move relative to one another to engage or disengage the umbilical. In operation, a user moves the first and second arms towards one another to engage the umbilical in fluid connection to the valve. To disengage the umbilical from the fluid connection with the valve, the user releases the spring-biased arms.

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