Document Document Title
US08088258B2 Method for purifying and separating a krypton-xenon mixture by rectification and a device for carrying out said method
The invention relates to cryogenic engineering, in particular to purifying krypton-xenon mixture and is usable in the chemical and oil-and-gas industries. The inventive method comprises purifying and separating the mixture in rectification columns, wherein coolant is removed and returned to a cooling cycle, additionally removing radionuclides from krypton and xenon fractions and from krypton and xenon production flows by means of filtration and/or adsorption and/or rectification and/or absorption and/or chemical and/or physicochemical methods in apparatuses for additional removing radionuclides. Balloons for reception of the separated products are certified with respect to radionuclides content and/or activity prior to and after the filling thereof. An installation for carrying out the method is also disclosed, allowing to additionally remove radionuclides from the separated products in such a way that the products can be used, for example, for medical purposes and to increase the cost efficiency of purification and separation processes.
US08088255B2 Sheet stabilizer with dual inline machine direction air clamps and backsteps
An air stabilization system employing two substantially parallel, codirectional Coanda nozzles, that are positioned adjacent a flexible moving web, with each nozzle exhausting gas at the same downstream machine direction, subjects the moving web to shear forces effective to stabilize the web. Each nozzle includes an elongated slot that is substantially perpendicular to the path of the moving web and a backstep located downstream of the direction of airflow extending from the Coanda slot. The two Coanda nozzles serve as separate points along the machine direction for controlling the height of the moving web. By modulating the velocities or other parameters of gases exiting the Coanda nozzles, the shape of the moving web between the nozzles can be manipulated to present a planar contour for measurements. The air stabilization system can be incorporated into a scanner head to measure the caliper of paper, plastic, and other flexible web products.
US08088253B2 Digester screen for a continuous cellulose pulp digester
The digester screen is for a continuous digester in which cooked cellulose pulp is produced. The digester screen has a number of screen bars arranged vertically in the continuous digester that have withdrawal slots (S) between the fixed screen bars through which withdrawal slots cooking fluid can be withdrawn from the column of pulp (P) of the digester. By having every second screen bar fixedly arranged and recessed a distance (D) relative to the neighboring screen bar an increased withdrawal capacity for the screen is obtained.
US08088252B2 Salt-sensitive cationic polymeric binders for nonwoven webs and method of making the same
A solution with a salt-sensitive polymer binder for use in fibrous webs, where the binder contains a copolymer comprising repeat units derived from butyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate and amino functionalized alkyl acrylate or methacrylate or amino functionalized alkyl acrylamide or methacrylamide optionally including monomers such as vinyl acetate and/or vinyl acetate/ethylene. The binder solution is prepared by emulsion-polymerizing a copolymer and then neutralizing the copolymer with acid to make it water soluble. The binders are particularly suitable for strengthening nonwoven fibrous webs in disposable articles such as wet-wipes, personal care products, diapers, and the like and retain their salt-sensitivity with or without divalent metal scavengers.
US08088251B2 Process for improving paper strength
The present invention provides a process for preparing a paper or paper board of improved strength which comprises the steps of i) providing a cellulosic thick stock, ii) diluting the thick stock of step i) to form a thin stock, iii) draining the thin stock of step ii) on a wire to form a web, and iv) drying the web of step iii) to form paper or paper board, wherein the cellulosic thick stock of step (i) comprises organic polymeric microparticles, as well as paper obtainable by above process.
US08088250B2 Method of increasing filler content in papermaking
The invention provides a method of producing paper with a higher proportion of mineral filler particles than is otherwise be possible without the expected loss in paper strength. The method allows for the use of the greater amount of filler particles by coating at least some of the filler particles with a material that prevents the filler materials form adhering to a strength additive. The strength additive holds the cellulose fibers together tightly and is not wasted on the filler particles. The method is particularly effective when the filler particles are a PCC-GCC blend and when the GCC particles are coated with the adherence preventing coating.
US08088249B2 Method for the continuous steam pre-treatment of chips during the production of cellulose pulp
The arrangement and method are for the steam pre-treatment of chips during the production of cellulose pulp to avoid the blow-through of gases in the steam pre-treatment vessel. This prevents foul-smelling gases from being released into the atmosphere. Spreader nozzles for the injection of cooling fluid are arranged in the gas phase of the steam pre-treatment vessel. In the event of the risk for blow-through of steam, cooling that is proportional to the risk is activated. It is possible to avoid the emission of gases from the chip bin when interruptions in the process occur, whereby the release of odors into the surroundings can be minimized.
US08088248B2 Gas switching section including valves having different flow coefficients for gas distribution system
A gas switching system for a gas distribution system for supplying different gas compositions to a chamber, such as a plasma processing chamber of a plasma processing apparatus, is provided. The chamber can include multiple zones, and the gas switching section can supply different gases to the multiple zones. The switching section can switch the flows of one or more gases, such that one gas can be supplied to the chamber while another gas can be supplied to a by-pass line, and then switch the gas flows.
US08088246B2 Process for improving the adhesion of polymeric materials to metal surfaces
An adhesion promoting composition and a process for treating metal surfaces with the adhesion promoting composition is described. The adhesion promoting composition comprises an oxidizer, an acid, a corrosion inhibitor, a source of halide ions and a material selected from a mercapto propane sulfonate, mercapto propane sulfonic acid, and bis-sodium sulfopropyl disulfide. The adhesion promoting composition increases the adhesion of polymeric materials to the metal surfaces and also provides increased acid resistance.
US08088236B2 Apparatus and method for producing a large-area fibre-composite structural component
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for producing a large-area fibre-composite structural component, in particular for the aircraft sector, comprising a predetermined shaping element, a controllable laying device for the defined laying of at least one fibrous sheet over or into the predetermined shaping element, a controllable turning device for a defined turning of the predetermined shaping element and of the laying device in relation to each other by a predetermined turning angle, and a central control device, which is connected to the laying device and the turning device for controlling of the same.
US08088234B2 AA2000-series aluminum alloy products and a method of manufacturing thereof
An AA2000-series alloy including 2 to 5.5% Cu, 0.5 to 2% Mg, at most 1% Mn, Fe <0.25%, Si >0.10 to 0.35%, and a method of manufacturing these aluminum alloy products. More particularly, disclosed are aluminum wrought products in relatively thick gauges, i.e. about 30 to 300 mm thick. While typically practiced on rolled plate product forms, this method may also find use with manufacturing extrusions or forged product shapes. Representative structural component parts made from the alloy product include integral spar members, and the like, which are machined from thick wrought sections, including rolled plate.
US08088233B2 Method of characterizing phase transformations in shape memory materials
A method of characterizing phase transformations of a shape memory material specimen entails recording data from the specimen during heating and cooling. The temperature of the specimen is changed in a first direction to a first temperature sufficient to define a first inflection and a second inflection in the data being recorded. The temperature of the specimen is changed in a second direction to a second temperature sufficient to define a third inflection in the data. The third inflection is formed by overlapping primary and secondary sub-inflections. The temperature of the specimen is changed in the first direction to a third temperature sufficient to define the first inflection but not sufficient to define the second inflection. The temperature of the specimen is then changed in the second direction to a fourth temperature sufficient to define the secondary sub-inflection in the data being recorded.
US08088232B2 Molybdenum tubular sputtering targets with uniform grain size and texture
Molybdenum, sputtering targets and sintering characterized as having no or minimal texture banding or through thickness gradient. The molybdenum sputtering targets having a fine, uniform grain size as well as uniform texture, are high purity and can be micro-alloyed to improved performance. The sputtering targets can be round discs, square, rectangular or tubular and can be sputtered to form thin films on substrates. By using a segment-forming method, the size of the sputtering target can be up to 6 m×5.5 m. The thin films can be used in electronic components such as Thin Film Transistor-Liquid Crystal Displays, Plasma Display Panels, Organic Light Emitting Diodes, Inorganic Light Emitting Diode Displays, Field Emitting Displays, solar cells, sensors, semiconductor devices, and gate device for CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) with tunable work functions.
US08088231B2 Method for producing a titanium-base alloy having an oxide dispersion therein
A metallic article is prepared by first furnishing at least one nonmetallic precursor compound, wherein all of the nonmetallic precursor compounds collectively containing the constituent elements of the metallic article in their respective constituent-element proportions. The constituent elements together form a titanium-base alloy having a stable-oxide-forming additive element therein, such as magnesium, calcium, scandium, yttrium, lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, promethium, samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, and lutetium, and mixtures thereof. The stable-oxide-forming additive element forms a stable oxide in a titanium-based alloy. At least one additive element is present at a level greater than its room-temperature solid solubility limit in the titanium-base alloy. The precursor compounds are chemically reduced to produce an alloy material, without melting the alloy material. The alloy material may be consolidated. The alloy material, or consolidated metallic article, is thereafter desirably exposed to an oxygen-containing environment at a temperature greater than room temperature.
US08088230B2 Rolling apparatus
A rolling apparatus including an external member having a raceway surface on an inner peripheral surface thereof, an internal member having a raceway surface on an outer peripheral surface thereof, and a plurality of rolling elements which are rotatably provided between the raceway surface of the external member and the raceway surface of the internal member. A surface of at least one of the internal member, the external member, and the rolling elements is subjected to carbonitriding or nitriding; an area percentage of a nitride containing Si and Mn is 1% or more and 20% or less; surface hardness is HV750 or more. When depth from the raceway surface or depth from a rolling surface of the rolling element is defined as Z and diameter of the rolling element is defined as d, hardness at Z=0.045 d is HV650 to 850, and hardness at Z=0.18 d is HV400 to 800.
US08088217B2 Cement-based fire door core
The present invention describes an improved building material composition, useful for example as a fire door core. The building material of the present invention is prepared by compressing an aqueous mixture of expanded perlite and a fast setting, cementitious composition consisting essentially of a hydraulic cement, preferably Portland cement, and a pozzolan additive selected from the group consisting of metakaolin, VCAS and mixtures thereof, and preferably also includes an organic binder and a fibrous reinforcement.
US08088216B2 Water-borne complete inorganic alkali metal silicate composition and its aqueous solution, and water-borne coat agent, its aqueous solution, complete inorganic colored coating material and binder for high temperature and heat resistance coating material of the same composition, as well as method of using water-borne complete inorganic alkali metal silicate compound
The invention provides a water-borne complete inorganic alkali silicate composition capable of solving the problem of gelation occurred in a preservation solution without using anionic organic substances, expanding the range of application dramatically, additionally solving the problem of efflorescence after coating, which is the biggest problem when the molar ratio is low, and furthermore curing at normal temperature without baking, enabling long-lasting effects.The water-borne complete inorganic alkali silicate composition is comprised of a mixture of an alkali metal silicate including a simple or a mixture of potassium silicate or sodium silicate, a colloidal silica, and a simple or a mixture of a sodium phosphate compound or a potassium phosphate compound.
US08088215B2 Diffusion reaction method and diffusion reaction device
A diffusion reaction method includes: joining a plurality of reaction liquids relating to a reaction to form a multilayer flow; sandwiching from both sides of the multilayer flow in the depthwise direction using sandwiching liquid so that the multilayer flow is contracted and thinned; and flowing the multilayer flow through a reaction channel to cause a diffusive mixing between laminar flows so as to cause the reaction. The method enables to allow reacting diffusive mixing a plurality of reaction liquids instantly in a reaction channel, is suitable for any kinds of reaction product. Further, for example, when forming fine particles in a diffusion reaction, the method can prevent logging of the reaction channel by the fine particles and an adhesion of the fine particles to the wall of the reaction channel.
US08088211B2 Aluminum pigment, process for production thereof and resin composition
An aluminum pigment having aluminum particles, a molybdenum coat comprising a molybdenum oxide and/or a molybdenum hydrate covering the surface of each aluminum particle and a silica coat comprising amorphous silica and/or a coat prepared from a silane coupling agent further covering this molybdenum coat is provided as an aluminum pigment having excellent dispersibility and stability, neither generating hydrogen gas nor agglomerating during storage and providing excellent designability for the appearance of a film. With respect to 100 parts by mass of aluminum, the content of molybdenum is preferably in the range of 0.01 to 5 parts by mass, and the content of silicon is preferably in the range of 1 to 20 parts by mass.
US08088208B2 Highly insulating and fireproof coating materials for casting moulds
The present invention relates to wash compositions which comprise a solvent component and a solids component wherein the solvent component comprises as main component water or one or more alcohols, and the solids component comprises as main component a mixture of metakaolinite and pyrophyllite, which can be applied onto casting molds, casting molds comprising these wash compositions and the use thereof, in particular in centrifugal casting processes and large-scale casting processes.
US08088202B2 Heat exchange tower airflow apparatus and method
A heat exchange tower has an external structure including opposed sidewalls, a front barrier wall, an inlet opening below the front wall, and a rear barrier wall having an outlet at a generally upper region. A fill material generally spans the inside within the four walls, and is generally disposed above the top of the inlet and below the bottom of the outlet. A baffle protrudes inwardly from the rear barrier wall inside the tower and is located at a height above the top of the fill and below the bottom of the air outlet. A primary drift eliminator structure spans generally across the tower, and is located at the height of the baffle, so they connect to each other. A supplemental drift eliminator is provided above the primary drift eliminator, adjacent an inward edge of the baffle. At least one air turning vane angled in a generally vertical direction is provided below the fill media. An air inlet guide projects outwardly from the front wall above the inlet.
US08088201B2 Method and device for safe storage and use of volatile ammonia storage materials
There is described a method and apparatus (100, 100′) for storing and delivering ammonia wherein at least two ammonia storage materials (1a, 2a) capable of reversibly adsorbing or absorbing ammonia having different ammonia vapor pressures are used. Ammonia storage material (2a) having a lower vapor pressure, which is only partially saturated with ammonia or void of ammonia, is brought into fluid communication with ammonia storage material (1a) having a higher ammonia vapor pressure to adsorb or absorb ammonia released from the ammonia storage material (1a) having a higher ammonia vapor pressure when the latter is higher than a pressure threshold. An automotive NOx treatment system (200) comprising such apparatus (100, 100′) is also described.
US08088198B2 Wet electrostatic precipitator
A wet electrostatic precipitator (1) includes an inlet (2) for receiving a gas (4) containing a pollutant, and an outlet (6) for discharging therefrom the gas (8) from which said pollutant has been at least partially removed. Nozzles (24) are operative for purposes of spraying liquid onto at least one first vertical collecting surface (30) of at least one collecting electrode (18). A liquid distributor (42) is provided for purposes of pouring liquid onto at least one second vertical collecting surface (44), said at least one second vertical collecting surface (44) being located on a further collecting electrode (36), with said further collecting electrode (36) being located downstream of said at least one collecting electrode (18). The nozzles (24) are located upstream of the liquid distributor (42), as viewed with reference to the direction of flow of the gas. In a method of cleaning the collecting electrodes (18, 36) an upstream electrode (18) is sprayed with liquid while liquid is poured onto a downstream collecting electrode (36).
US08088195B2 Method for manufacturing titanium oxide-containing slag
The present invention provides a method for efficiently manufacturing a titanium oxide-containing slag from a material including titanium oxide and iron oxide, wherein a reduction of titanium dioxide is suppressed and the electric power consumption is minimized. The method includes the steps of: heating a raw material mixture including titanium oxide, iron oxide, and a carbonaceous reductant, or the raw material mixture further including a calcium oxide source, in a reducing furnace; reducing the iron oxide in the mixture to form reduced iron; feeding the resultant mixture to a heating melting furnace; heating the resultant mixture in the heating melting furnace to melt the reduced iron and separate the reduced iron from a titanium oxide-containing slag; and discharging and recovering the titanium oxide-containing slag out of the furnace.
US08088194B2 Method for producing hot briquette iron using high-temperature reduced iron and method and apparatus for controlling temperature of reduced iron for hot forming
Provided is a method for producing hot briquette iron by hot-forming high-temperature reduced iron reduced in a reducing furnace, involving cooling the high-temperature reduced iron and controlling the temperature of the reduced iron to an appropriate hot-forming temperature of over 600° C. and 750° C. or less, producing hot briquette iron by hot-forming the high-temperature reduced iron at an appropriate hot-forming temperature with a briquetting machine.
US08088193B2 Method for making nanoparticles
A method for making nanoparticles includes the steps of dipping a metal element in a solution that contains metallic ions or ions with a metal, wherein the metal element has a lower electronegativity or redox potential than that of the metal in the ions, and rubbing the metal element to make nanoparticles. Another method for making nanoparticles includes the steps of dipping a metal element in a solution that contains metallic ions or ions with a metal, wherein the metal element has a lower electronegativity or redox potential than that of the metal in the ions, and applying sonic energy to at least one of the metal element and solution. A further method for making copper nanoparticles includes the step of adding ascorbic acid to a copper salt solution.
US08088192B2 Recovery of residues containing copper and other valuable metals
A process for recovering non-ferrous metals, in particular copper, nickel and cobalt, from metallurgical residues containing these non-ferrous metals at an oxidation state of greater than or equal to zero, in an alternating current type plasma arc electric furnace comprising a plurality of electrodes, containing a liquid copper heel covered by a fluid slag comprising at least one fusion-reduction phase, comprising charging of metallurgical residues comprising the non-ferrous metals onto the heel contained in the plasma arc electric furnace, fusion of the metallurgical residues in the fluid slag or at the slag-metal bath interface, reduction of at least the non-ferrous metals to oxidation state zero, and intense stirring of the copper heel by injection of inert gas, preferably nitrogen and/or argon, so as to avoid crust formation and to accelerate the reduction reaction and to cause the copper-miscible non-ferrous metals to pass into the copper heel.
US08088191B1 Potassium polyphosphite composition for agricultural use and associated methods
A bactericidal and fungicidal composition having fertilizer properties, the composition containing a high percentage of potassium polyphosphite is disclosed. The composition is useful as a fungicide, bactericide, and as a fertilizer for application to plants and, particularly, commercial crops. A method of making the polyphosphite composition is described, as well as methods of using same.
US08088186B2 Equipment for the atomisation of a liquid stream by means of a dispersing gaseous stream and for mixing the atomised product with a further suitable gaseous stream in equipment for effecting catalytic partial oxidations and relative catalytic partial oxidation process
Equipment for the atomization of a liquid stream by means of a dispersing gaseous stream and for mixing the atomised product with a further suitable gaseous stream, characterized in that it comprises: a feeding zone (A) equipped with means suitable for feeding the liquid stream, the gaseous dispersing stream and further gaseous stream; one or more two-stage atomization zones (N) of the liquid stream by means of the gaseous dispersing stream; a distribution zone (D) of the further gaseous stream.
US08088182B2 Azo dyes, a process for the preparation thereof and the use thereof
The present invention relates to dyes of formula wherein D, R1, R2, R3, R4 and n are defined as in the claims, to the process for the preparation thereof and to the use thereof in dyeing or printing semi-synthetic and especially synthetic hydrophobic textile materials, more especially textile materials.
US08088180B2 Lens dyeing method and apparatus for producing dyeing base body for dyeing lens
A lens dyeing method comprising the steps of: (a) determining a print area to be formed on a dyeing base body based on information entered to dye a predetermined area of a surface of a lens to be dyed with desired hue and almost uniform color density so that the print area has a diameter larger than that of the lens surface area and the color density of the print area concentrically changes from a central portion to a peripheral portion in a stepwise or linear manner; (b) applying a dyeing ink containing a sublimable dye onto the base body to form the determined print area on one surface of the base body; and (c) placing the base body and the lens so that the print area formed surface and the lens surface area to be dyed face each other in noncontact relation under substantially a vacuum condition, and heating the base body to deposit the dye onto the lens.
US08088176B2 Methods and kits for permanently coloring hair using a developer composition containing an oxidizer composition and a shampoo
Disclosed are methods, kits and compositions for coloring the hair involving a color base composition having: at least one oxidation dye precursor, and at least 5% by weight water based on the weight of the color base composition, wherein the color base composition has a pH ranging from 2 to 12; and a developer composition made from a combination of an anhydrous oxidizer composition containing at least one oxidizing agent chosen from persulfates, perborates, percarbonates, their salts, and mixtures thereof, and a shampoo composition containing a carrier vehicle and at least 4% of at least one surfactant.
US08088174B2 Method for wash-protecting the color of artificially dyed keratin fibers
Disclosed herein is a method for wash-protecting the color of artificially dyed keratin fibers comprising applying to the artificially dyed keratin fibers at least one drying oil or at least one composition comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium, at least one drying oil.
US08088167B2 Femoral prosthetic implant
Methods and apparatus for knee arthroplasty, including implants, positioning and alignment guides, cutting guides, cutting tools and techniques for the femur and/or tibia.
US08088165B2 Spinal disc annulus reconstruction method and deformable spinal disc annulus stent
A spinal disc annulus repair stent for repair and reconstruction of the spinal disc wall (annulus) after surgical invasion or pathologic rupture, which may incorporate suture closure or other means of stent insertion and fixation, designed to reduce the failure rate of conventional surgical procedures on the spinal discs. In an illustrative embodiment, the design of the spinal disc annulus stent advantageously allows ingrowth of normal cells of healing in an enhanced fashion strengthening the normal reparative process.
US08088155B1 Prosthetic repair of body passages
A prosthesis that resiliently engages a body passage includes an annular clamping ring which may be folded along a diametric axis for insertion into the body passage. The clamping ring is adapted to resiliently spring outwardly, once in position inside the body passage, and to be continually resiliently biased against the interior surface of the body passage. One or more of the clamping rings may be attached to opposed ends of a tubular graft. The rings and connected graft may be positioned in the body passage using a applicator which selectively permits expansion and/or in some embodiments contraction of the annular ring in position within a body passage. Alternatively a retaining member may be used to retain the annular ring in a compressed condition until it is in a desired position within a body passage. Among other potential uses, the present invention may be useful as a vascular stent for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms.
US08088154B2 Medical device delivery system with sheath separation
Medical device delivery systems and associated methods are provided. Delivery systems according to the invention include an elongated tubular member and a body member, such as a dilator, disposed therein. An intraluminal medical device is disposed on the dilator and within the tubular member prior to deployment. The delivery system includes a means for separating two or more portions of the distal end of the tubular member that aids in deploying the intraluminal medical device from the delivery system by separating two or more portions of the tubular member from each other to facilitate release of the intraluminal medical device from the body member. Various structures can be used for means for separating, including a cutting ring, activateable material on the tubular member, or other suitable structure. The provided devices and methods reduce friction occuring from relative movement between the sheath and dilator during deployment.
US08088153B2 Medical equipment for coronary artery disease
The present invention relates to a low cost treatment device for coronary artery disease. The treatment device for coronary artery disease comprises a photonic glove, a heart-board, and a machine for controlling the photonic glove and the heart-board, which are electrically connected. The photonic glove includes 4 holes for the 4 fingers next to the thumb to wear, three fixed belts of the photon generating device, and at least one magic stick for fixing the belts of the photon generating device. One end of each fixed belt in the photon generating device is fixed to the front side of the photonic glove. Three photonic generators are assembled on the front side of the photonic glove, and the magic sticks are positioned on the back of the photonic glove. The present invention is low cost, friendly to use, and can work easily at home compared to the traditional invention.
US08088151B2 Craniotomy closures and plugs
Strip fasteners and cranial plugs for use in reattaching a skull flap removed during brain surgery and methods of using the same. The strip fasteners are flexible and can be shaped to follow the perimeter contour of the skull flap. The cranial plugs can be used to reattach the skull flap or they can be installed after the skull flap is reattached using the strip fasteners. In some embodiments, the cranial plug(s) and strip fasteners can be installed at the same time. The strip fasteners and cranial plugs are designed to encourage bone growth and healing of the skull flap and they can be used to deliver medication and bone growth enhancement compositions to the surgical site.
US08088147B2 Multi-membrane prosthetic nucleus
Multi-membrane prosthetic nucleus and implants using same are disclosed having an outermost membrane that is semi-compliant and limits the innermost membrane and any intermediate membranes that are highly compliant from bulging out of any opening in the annulus fibrosus. The outermost membrane may help protect the innermost membrane from trauma including any trauma before the innermost membrane is expanded through the injection of prosthetic nucleus material and trauma during the expansion of the innermost membrane in response to the injection of prosthetic nucleus material. Also disclosed is a coated membrane which combines the mechanical properties of the foundation layer with the low permeability to the passage of the flowable prosthetic material of the coating. This coated membrane is semi-compliant and prevents the prosthetic nucleus from bulging out of any openings in the annulus fibrosus. Use is made of injected prosthetic nucleus material that changes to a non-flowable state.
US08088145B2 Vascular wound closure device and method
A method and apparatus for closing a vascular wound includes an apparatus that can be threaded over a guidewire into place at or adjacent the wound. The apparatus includes a chamber that encloses a hemostatic material therein. When the apparatus is positioned adjacent the wound as desired, the hemostatic material is deployed from the chamber. A blocking member distal of the hemostatic material functions as a barrier to prevent the hemostatic material from entering the wound. Blood contacts the hemostatic material, and blood clotting preferably is facilitated by a hemostatic agent within the material. Thus, the vascular puncture wound is sealed by blood clot formation.
US08088140B2 Blood flow restorative and embolus removal methods
Methods for restoring blood flow in occluded blood vessels are disclosed. The methods can include accessing an artery with a catheter system and locating an occluded zone within the artery caused by an embolus. The catheter system can include a microcatheter and a blood flow restoration device or an embolus removal device having a self-expandable member configured to be delivered through the microcatheter in a compressed configuration and to be deployed to an expanded configuration upon retraction of the microcatheter. The methods can include deploying the self-expandable member at the location of the occluded zone such that the self-expandable member engages and captures the embolus upon deployment of the self-expandable member and removing the embolus by withdrawing the blood flow restoration device or the embolus removal device.
US08088137B2 Safety trocar with lancet feature
A trocar assembly includes a trocar housing having a blunt distal end and a proximal end; a blade assembly having a sharp tip and being slideable within the trocar housing between and armed position wherein the sharp tip extends distally beyond the blunt distal end and a relaxed position wherein the sharp tip is withdrawn proximally relative to the armed position; and a trigger member positioned relative to the housing to contact tissue when tissue is cut with the blade assembly in the armed position, and slideable by contact with the tissue to a proximal position which exposes the sharp tip and actuates a lock release member, the trigger member having member having a spring member biasing the trigger member distally so that removal of contact with the tissue allows the spring to move the trigger member distally, and further wherein distal movement of the trigger member with the lock release member activated releases the blade assembly from the armed position and allows the blade assembly to move to the relaxed position.
US08088135B2 Endoscopic cutting instrument with axial and rotary motion
Disclosed herein is an endoscopic surgical assembly having improved cutting efficiency. In particular, the present invention provides an endoscopic shaver assembly configured for automated axial as well as rotational motion so as to enhance tissue resection.
US08088131B2 Surgical suture passers and methods
A surgical instrument for suturing soft tissue is disclosed. The surgical instrument is capable of probing tissue, and preferably provides tactile feedback concerning the condition of the tissue. The instrument can then be used to pass and retrieve a suture without the need for an additional suture retrieval tool.
US08088129B2 Method and apparatus for magnetically controlling motion direction of mechanically pushed catheter
The movement of a catheter through a medium, which may be living tissue such as a human brain, is controlled by mechanically pushing a flexible catheter having a magnetic tip through the medium and applying a magnetic field having a magnitude and a direction that guides the mechanically-pushed catheter tip stepwise along a desired path. The magnetic field is controlled in a Magnetic Stereotaxis System by a processor using an adaptation of a PID (proportional, integral, and derivative) feedback method. The magnetic fields are applied by superconducting coils, and the currents applied through the coils are selected to minimize a current metric.
US08088128B2 Implantable cross-pin for anterior cruciate ligament repair
A novel cross-pin for use in ACL reconstructive surgical procedures. The cross-pin has an elongated body having a distal tapered end. A guide wire opening in the distal end is in communication with a tunnel contained in the distal end. There is a trough extending into the outer surface of the trough for receiving a guide wire. The trough is in communication with the tunnel.
US08088127B2 Systems, assemblies, and methods for treating a bronchial tree
Systems, assemblies, and methods to treat pulmonary diseases are used to decrease nervous system input to distal regions of the bronchial tree within the lungs. Treatment systems damage nerve tissue to temporarily or permanently decrease nervous system input. The treatment systems are capable of heating nerve tissue, cooling the nerve tissue, delivering a flowable substance that cause trauma to the nerve tissue, puncturing the nerve tissue, tearing the nerve tissue, cutting the nerve tissue, applying pressure to the nerve tissue, applying ultrasound to the nerve tissue, applying ionizing radiation to the nerve tissue, disrupting cell membranes of nerve tissue with electrical energy, or delivering long acting nerve blocking chemicals to the nerve tissue.
US08088126B2 Method and apparatus for plasma incision of cardiovascular tissue
An apparatus and method for performing surgery using plasma is described. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a radiofrequency signal generator, a conditioning network coupled to the radiofrequency signal generator, and a catheter coupled to the conditioning network, the catheter including at least one electrode, such that the conditioning network conditions radiofrequency energy produced by the radiofrequency signal generator to create plasma at the at least one electrode of the catheter.
US08088125B2 Cryoplasty device and method
A cryoplasty catheter and method for preventing or slowing reclosure of a lesion following angioplasty. The cryoplasty catheter includes a shaft having proximal and distal ends and a dilatation balloon disposed at the distal end. An intake lumen and exhaust lumen are defined by the shaft to deliver coolant to the balloon and to exhaust or drain coolant from the balloon. The method in accordance with the present invention includes cooling a lesion to aid in remodeling the lesion through dilatation and/or freezing a portion of the lesion adjacent the dilatation balloon to kill cells within the lesion to prevent or retard restenosis.
US08088120B2 Method and apparatus for alleviating nasal congestion
The present invention relates generally to the field of treatments for nasal congestion, and in particular, to a method and apparatus for alleviating nasal congestion in a patient by mechanically stimulating the sneezing reflex in the patient to urge drainage of the nasal passageways. The method includes inserting an instrument having a work tip portion provided with at least one filament into the nostril of the patient. The nasal mucosa of the patient is then probed with the at least one filament to stimulate in the patient the sneeze reflex. This probing action causes the patient to sneeze. With the patient's mouth closed, the sneeze urges at least one of mucus, fluid and debris in the nasal passages of the patient to be forcibly expelled through the nostrils of the patient thereby draining the nasal cavity of the patient. The instrument used in the performance of this method includes a handle portion upon which the work tip portion is carried. The handle portion may be integrally formed with the work tip portion or releasably attachable thereto. The instrument is further provided with a physical stop associated with one of the work tip portion and the handle portion to prevent injury resulting from the working tip portion being inserted too deeply into the nasal passages of the patient.
US08088117B2 Fill port for a flexible container for relieving or distributing stresses at the fill port
Methods, systems, and apparatus for a fill port for a flexible container such as a flexible self supporting dewatering or marine structure. The container includes a flexible material having at least one opening and a fill port having an inner port body and an outer port body. At least one face of the inner and/or outer port body has a plurality of cellular surfaces with cavities that do not extend through the inner and/or outer port body on which they are positioned. The cavities receive a portion of the flexible material when the inner port body, the flexible material, and the outer port body are secured together and in use, thus minimizing stresses on the flexible material surrounding the fill port by equally distributing the forces acting on this material during the filling stage and thus reducing the risk of tears or failure to the flexible container.
US08088107B1 Hemodialysis needle and method for inserting the same
A hemodialysis needle assembly and system that includes a first outer needle having a conical tip and a sidewall where the sidewall has a plurality of apertures located adjacent the tip, a second introducer needle located within the outer needle, a guide wire located within the introducer needle, and a spring motor removably secured to the outer needle. The introducer needle and the guide wire are inserted into a patient's vein and the spring motor releases the outer needle into the vein after the introducer needle and the guide wire are properly placed within the patient. The introducer needle, the guide wire, and the spring motor are removed from the patient after the outer needle is in place within the vein.
US08088106B2 System and method for pumping intravenous fluid
An intravenous fluid pump (IV) contains a disposable part including a fluid chamber having a resilient top membrane and a non-disposable part including a piston abutting a resilient membrane and a vacuum chamber fitted on top of the resilient top membrane. An external pump is used to create vacuum in the vacuum chamber, resulting in the resilient top membrane being held taut. The flow rate through the pump is relatively independent of changes in the pressure of IV fluid on the upstream and the downstream due to changes in the relative elevation of the fluid reservoir and the patient with respect to the fluid pump.
US08088102B2 Dilation and stent delivery system for bifurcation lesions
The present invention provides a dilatation and stent delivery device which tracks over two guidewires. One guidewire is disposed in each branch vessel of a bifurcation. The present invention provides a dilatation and stent delivery device which enables efficient and accurate stent deployment and dilatation of bifurcation lesions.
US08088099B2 Fluid dispenser
Dispensing assemblies, methods, and kits of parts for dispensing two separate fluids to an treatment site, including entraining non-atomized flow of a first fluid in an atomized flow of a second fluid, delivering a first fluid upstream from a second fluid, delivering a first fluid and a second fluid with re-shapeable malleable tubes, delivering first and second fluids with releasable connectors maintained by a handle assembly, and kits of parts with angularly offset pockets.
US08088097B2 Use of an equilibrium intravascular sensor to achieve tight glycemic control
A method for achieving tight glycemic control in a patient in need thereof is disclosed. The method comprises deploying an equilibrium glucose sensor within a blood vessel in the patient, coupling the sensor to a monitor that displays the blood glucose concentration, and administering a blood glucose regulator when the blood glucose concentration varies outside of the predetermined concentration range. The blood glucose regulator is administered in an amount sufficient to return the blood glucose concentration to within the predetermined concentration range, thereby achieving tight glycemic control.
US08088092B2 High pressure range hydrocephalus valve system
A valve for use in a shunt system to drain fluid from one part of a patient's body to another is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the valve is operable at a threshold pressure that is selectively adjustable up to at least about 400 mm H2O at increments in the range of about 10 mm H2O to 40 mm H2O. The ability of the valve to operate at a high threshold pressure and to be adjusted at relatively small increments renders the valve particularly advantageous for use in younger hydrocephalus patients. In particular, the operating pressure of the valve can be gradually limited in small increments over a period of time to slowly force the patient's own resorption system to circulate cerebrospinal fluid. At high operating pressures of at least about 400 mm H2O shunt independence can be achieved thereby allowing the shunt to be successfully removed.
US08088089B2 Apparatus and methods for reducing shoulder dislocations
The present invention is directed to apparatus, systems, and methods for reducing anterior shoulder dislocations in a patient. In one embodiment, the apparatus of the present invention comprises a humeral cuff, an inflatable bladder, a source of pressurized gas in select fluid communication with the inflatable bladder, and at least one elongated belt attached to the humeral cuff. In another embodiment, the system of the present invention comprises the apparatus of the present invention and at least one weight configured to selectively couple to at least a portion of the at least one elongated belt. In a further embodiment, the methods of the present invention comprise positioning the patient in a substantially prone position, providing the system of the present invention, selectively positioning the humeral cuff in an operative position, and attaching at least one weight to at least one elongated belt such that downward graviational force is applied to the patient's arm to effect the desired reduction.
US08088087B1 Dry hydro-therapy body massage apparatus with low profile enclosure panels
An apparatus for hydro-therapy massage characterized by a low profile enclosure structure surrounding a user support surface at a nominal elevation thereabove. The apparatus comprises a housing structure having an outwardly facing opening, a user support surface covering the opening, and a fluid spray arrangement within the housing structure for imparting a massaging effect through the support surface to a user thereon. The housing structure has a horizontal perimeter flange extending about the opening and a clamp plate affixed in substantially parallel superposed facing relation to the perimeter flange for clamping a continuous edge margin of the user support surface. An enclosure panel has an essentially planar mounting flange affixed in substantially parallel superposed facing relation to the clamp plate and has a skirt portion extending from the mounting flange for enclosing the housing structure.
US08088086B1 Automated pet scratching device and associated method
The invention as presently conceived discloses a motion-activated, mechanical apparatus that can be mounted onto a wall to provide the automatic scratching of a house pet, specifically a cat. The new and novel apparatus is configured with four independent mechanisms resembling human fingers, less the thumb, in both appearance and in movement. The fingers would be covered with a latex material to closely approximate the feel of real fingers. The mechanical apparatus would be mounted on a wall structure at an appropriate height to best facilitate the petting and scratching of the owner's particular pet. In operation, the artificial finger-like appendages would have a drive mechanism, electrical motor and be powered by a battery. A motion sensor, such as a close range infrared detector or similar device, would activate the fingers as the pet came into close proximity.
US08088084B2 Method and apparatus for repair of intervertebral discs
A method of repairing an intervertebral disc of a patient's body includes identifying a target area of the intervertebral disc. An ultrasound generator is placed proximate the target area and outside the patient's body. An area temperature at the target area is monitored. Ultrasonic energy is generated with the ultrasound generator within a predetermined energy range. The ultrasonic energy is adjusted in response to the area temperature exceeding a predetermined temperature range. An apparatus for repairing an intervertebral disc of a patient's body is also provided.
US08088083B2 System for measurement of head position and measurement tool for such a system
The present invention relates to the field of radiation therapy. In particular, the relates to a system for measuring the position of a head of a patient during neurological diagnosis, therapy or surgery, in particular during radiation therapy relatively a frame adapted to be fixated to a radiation therapy unit. The invention also relates to a head cap and a measurement tool for use in such a system, and to a method measuring the position of a head of a patient by means of a system mentioned above during neurological diagnosis, therapy or surgery, in particular during radiation therapy relatively a frame adapted to be fixated to a radiation therapy unit. The measurement tool is adapted to measure a distance between the head and the head cap via a through hole by means of an elongated element having an end being adapted to abut against the head during a measurement, wherein the measurement tool is adapted to obtain at least one measurement value indicating a position of the head in relation to the head cap substantially without operator interaction.
US08088076B2 Nervous system monitoring method
A method for monitoring the response of a nervous system of a body to a stimulus. The method comprises collecting a set of voltage measurements between selected areas on a surface of the body while current is being passed between selected regions of the surface of the body. The set of voltage measurements is collected over a predetermined measurement period, the predetermined measurement period is initiated at a predetermined time after application of the stimulus, and the collected voltage measurements are compared with reference to determine normal or abnormal response of the nervous system.
US08088074B2 Cerebral vascular reactivity monitoring
A monitoring device may include logic to receive arterial blood pressure data associated with a patient and receive tissue hemoglobin data associated with the patient. The logic may also calculate a linear correlation between the arterial blood pressure data and the tissue hemoglobin data. The correlation may be used to assess vascular reactivity.
US08088073B2 Device for the application of acoustic shock waves
A device, in particular a therapy device, for the application of acoustic shock waves aimed at a region to be treated in a human or animal body and comprising a housing with a coupling surface for coupling the shock waves into the body to be treated, a shock wave generating device and a means suitable for focusing the shock waves, in which the shock wave generating device and the means suitable for focusing the shock waves are enclosed in a housing and designed such that they can be moved relative to the coupling surface.
US08088070B2 Hand-held ultrasound imaging device having removable transducer arrays
A hand-held ultrasonic imaging device is provided with a removable transducer array. The imaging device has a housing, a display on the housing, and a transducer assembly including a transducer array detachably coupled to the housing. The imaging device may detect the type of transducer array that is coupled to the housing and select a corresponding functional mode for the transducer array. The transducer array may be coupled at different angles to the housing. The transducer array may be coupled to the housing by a pivotable swivel connector.
US08088063B2 Insertion assisting tool for endoscope
An insertion assisting tool for an endoscope into which an insertion section of the endoscope is inserted from a base end portion side, comprising: a fluid sealing device which seals a space between a base end part of the insertion assisting tool and the endoscope insertion section, the space being formed while the insertion section of the endoscope is inserted into the base end portion side.
US08088057B2 Apparatus and methods to improve sleep, reduce pain and promote natural healing
This is a new invention, which is safer, simpler to use, less invasive into a user's daily routine and provides a lower cost solution to existing pulsed magnetic field and related vibrational electromagnetic therapy devices to improve sleep, encourage natural healing and reduce pain. This is accomplished through Multiple Simultaneous Extremely Low Frequency (MSELF) energy waves. The MSELF energy waves are derived from a quartz crystal with a fundamental frequency less than one-half of one percent from a natural Fibonacci Sequence Number. The apparatus utilizes firmware operating in a microcontroller. emulating Circadian Rhythms. The microcontroller is also clocked by the Fibonacci Number Quartz Crystal. Additionally, the apparatus's unique application of an H-Bridge configuration power-driver with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) capabilities supports a novel approach to supply two simultaneous therapeutic frequencies.
US08088048B2 Swivel exerciser
A swivel exerciser includes a base frame, left and right handlebars, a plate on the base frame, a curved rail around the plate and fixedly secured onto the base frame, left and right stop members at both ends of the rail, pivotal left and right arms, left and right pedals on ends of the left and right arms respectively and being slidable on the rail, left and right projecting plates each at one side of the left or right arm and having a through hole, and an inverted U-shaped member. In a first exercise mode, the inverted U-shaped member has both ends inserted into the through holes of the pedals for interconnection so that both the left and right pedals may swing clockwise or counterclockwise. In a second exercise mode and after removing the inverted U-shaped member, either pedal may swing clockwise or counterclockwise independently.
US08088047B2 Exercise device and method of jump rope exercise using two separate ropes
A jump rope exercise device is provided having a first elongated member and a second elongated member with each member having a free distal end, and a proximal end rotatably attached to a specially designed handle which can be gripped between the fingers of the user during the exercise period. During the exercise each handle is gripped by the user; one by the left hand and the other by the right hand, and the elongated members are maneuvered in clockwise, counterclockwise or crisscrossing direction.
US08088046B2 Adjustable exercise device and a device for adjusting an exercise device
An adjustable exercise device that includes one or more inclined riser blocks for readily elevating and inclining a platform to enable stepping and other exercises to be readily performed on an inclined platform. The inclined riser blocks may be matingly engageable with the bottom of the platform to elevate and incline the platform. The inclined riser block may include a top face matingly engageable with the bottom of the platform, a bottom face, and a central portion extending between the bottom and top faces and having a front and rear, the central portion increasing in thickness from the front to the rear. The top face extends at an incline.
US08088044B2 Interactive athletic equipment system
Systems and techniques for the collection and display of athletic information. Athletic data relating to a single person or group of people is collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed at a desired remote location so that the person or people can review and critique their performance. In addition, athletic data for multiple persons can be collected at a central location, and subsequently displayed to a user at a desired remote location, so that the user can compare his or her athletic activities to others.
US08088043B2 Wearable device assembly having athletic functionality
A wearable device has a carrier having an aperture. A device has a USB connection and a protrusion wherein the protrusion is received in the aperture to connect the device to the carrier. The device is a USB type device having athletic functionality.
US08088039B2 Hydraulic control apparatus for vehicle automatic transmission
In a hydraulic control apparatus for a vehicle automatic transmission, a check valve is provided parallel to a first oil passageway switching valve and a third oil passageway switching valve between an output port of a linear solenoid valve and a brake, and the check valve permits pressure oil to flow from the brake to the output port side, and blocks the flow thereof in the opposite direction. Therefore, the pressure oil from the brake when the brake is released is supplied to the output port via the check valve, not via the first or third oil passageway switching valve. Therefore, when the brake is released, the engaging pressure of the brake can be controlled by the linear solenoid valve, and the positions of the first and third oil passageway switching valves are not restricted.
US08088028B2 Tracking system for use with an arrow
A tracking system for use with an arrow having a shaft and arrowhead includes a housing having first and second separable portions that define an interior area. A transmitter is operatively coupled to one of the portions and positioned in the interior area when coupled together. A first anchor is configured to be coupled to the shaft and the housing first end. A second anchor is configured to be coupled to the arrowhead and the housing second end. A fastener selectively couples the first and second portions together. A switch activates automatically when the fastener is moved to couple the first and second portions together and causes the transmitter to activate. The system includes a tracking unit having a receiver, display, processor, and programming to indicate a location of the transmitter based on signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. Data received from the transmitter may include an identifier.
US08088024B2 Golf club head
A hollow golf club bead includes a sole, a crown, a skirt, and a striking face. The golf club includes a junction interconnecting the sole, crown, and skirt to the striking face, the junction including at least one stiffening member.
US08088023B2 Iron golf club head
An iron golf club head includes: a block that is made by a magnesium alloy; and a metal head main body, wherein the block is embedded into the metal head main body.
US08088021B2 High volume aerodynamic golf club head having a post apex attachment promoting region
A high volume aerodynamic golf club head having a post apex attachment promoting region with a club head volume of at least 400 cc and a front-to-back dimension of at least 4.4 inches producing a face-on normalized aerodynamic drag force of less than 1.5 lbf when exposed to a 100 mph wind parallel to the ground plane and oriented at the front of the club head. The post apex attachment promoting region is on the surface of the crown section at an elevation above a maximum face height and begins at the crown apex and extends toward the back of the club head. The post apex attachment promoting region is a relatively flat portion of the crown section that is behind the crown apex, yet above the maximum top edge plane, and aides in keeping airflow attached to the club head once it flows past the crown apex.
US08088017B2 System and method for analyzing bowling ball motion
A system and method for graphically and statistically analyzing and predicting the motion of a bowling ball. In one embodiment, the system includes an automatic precision ball thrower, a computer aided tracking system (“C.A.T.S.”), and a computing device. Certain static properties of the bowling ball are recorded as independent variables. The automatic precision ball thrower is used to throw the bowling ball down the lane a number of times and the C.A.T.S. records various dynamic characteristics of its path. This data is received by the computing device which uses it to calculate a plurality of dependent variables associated with the path of the bowling ball. The computing device relates the independent variables to the dependent variables using multivariable regression analysis, yielding a set of equations which can be used to predict the dependent variables (or dynamic characteristics) of a second bowling ball given a set of independent variables (or static characteristics of the second bowling ball).
US08088016B2 Half-pipe water ride
Embodiments of the invention provide a half-pipe water ride for use by a rider. The half-pipe water ride includes an activity section with a substantially flat middle section, a first curved sidewall, and a second curved sidewall opposite the first curved sidewall. Water flows from a water delivery section through the middle section to a dewatering section. The rider can ride on the half-pipe water ride substantially perpendicular to the water flow from the first curved sidewall across the middle section to the second curved sidewall.
US08088015B2 Self-repairing boot for a constant velocity joint
A boot assembly for an articulating joint is provided, including an inner layer and an outermost layer. The inner layer is constructed from a first material and the outermost layer is constructed from a second material that is different from the first material. The outermost layer at least partially covers the inner layer, and the second material includes a self-repairing polymer.
US08088014B2 Gaming device and method for wireless gaming system providing non-intrusive processes
A gaming peripheral for a gaming machine is described. The gaming peripheral can be configured to emulate the functions of a lighting device, such as a candle. The gaming peripheral can be configured to provide enhanced gaming features such as 1) enhanced networking capabilities, 2) enhanced peripheral device monitoring and upgrade capabilities, 3) enhanced player monitoring and security capabilities 4) enhanced gaming function capabilities and 5) enhanced player reward capabilities. The enhanced gaming features can be provided in a non-intrusive manner such that regulated software executed on a gaming machine does not have to be altered.
US08088011B2 Dynamic debugging dump for game console
An error data dumping process on a game console is described, in which a request for an error data dump may be initiated using commands mapped to a handheld game controller. The request may include parameters for customizing the resulting dump, where the parameters may identify one or more physical memory address ranges to be included in the dump. Allocated virtual memory contents may also be added to the dump data structure, as can call stack data (such as thread lists and module lists) and system information. The assembled dump data can be written to a file and uploaded, via secure communication, to a network location where it may be indexed.
US08088008B2 Game system
A game device (A1) registers at least one game character from among a plurality of prepared game characters with an entity managed in a virtual space by a player, and engages in a competition with another game device (B1), using a game character that is specified by a player from among registered game characters. A server device (3) computes a degree of popularity for each of game character on the basis of information sent from a plurality of game devices (A1, B1), and determines registration fees necessary for registering game characters with players' entities on the basis of degrees of popularity. The registration fee list is delivered to each game device when the game device is activated.
US08088007B2 Network game not requiring continuous connectivity
A cellular phone used to execute a game is connected to a server apparatus when a need arises to transmit or receive information. The game is individually progressed by each cellular phone. A user equips a player character with a material to use a magic in a battle. A party is formed by users of multiple cellular phones and a material possessed by the user belonging to the same party is registered in the server apparatus. When the user transmits a support request to the server apparatus during a battle, the server apparatus returns the support material possessed by other users belonging to the same party. The user of the cellular phone can also use a magic corresponding to the support material in the battle.
US08088006B2 Card game system and method
The card playing system or network and method is particularly suitable for playing bridge and other multi-table card games in clubs and tournaments. A remote input/output device or scoring unit is provided at each of a plurality of tables. Each remote unit preferably has a transmitter and receiver for sending and receiving playing information to and from a base station, such as a base computer and/or a connection to the World Wide Web. The base station equipment also has a transmitter and receiver. Bids are input into the scoring units by operating keys or other input means, and the bids and scores are transmitted by means of the network to the base station. The base computer or website equipment computes interim standings of the players and sends that and other information to the scoring units. Transmission preferably is wireless or by means of cables.
US08088001B2 Casino gaming exchange market
In a cashless gaming environment, a gaming patron has accounts and may accumulate winnings as well as different types of awards. Methods for efficiently exchanging the awards are disclosed. A secondary market is established for trading different goods and services. Liquidity of credits and awards is established.
US08088000B2 Real-time interactive wagering on event outcomes
Systems and methods for real-time interactive wagering on event outcomes are presented. Clients are first qualified and given wagering limits before being allowed to interactively wager on event outcomes. Event outcomes may be based on, for example, financial markets and indices, sporting and entertainment events, casino performances, and natural phenomena such as weather and earthquakes. Events on which wagers can be placed include both those with known and unknown outcome probabilities, and wagers can be a fixed-odds type or a spread-bet type. Wager transactions, including acceptances and confirmations, are executed in real time. Clients can customize displays of events on which they are authorized to wager. Real-time client credit management, automatic dealer hedging, automatic price-spread adjustments, and automatic client and dealer defined wagering limits are also provided.
US08087990B2 Method and system for conducting multiple concurrent bingo games
A method for conducting bingo games includes using a server to collect game play requests from a plurality of electronic player stations. The server determines if a group of the collected game play requests meets one or more predefined conditions for establishing a quorum, and if so conducts a game with the group of game play requests. Even after the game is started, the server continues to collect game play requests in preparation for conducting additional games. When enough game play requests are collected, the server starts the next game, even if previous games are still in progress.
US08087989B2 Apparatus for making a sought-after choice more likely to be obtained by a participant from a group of choices
The present invention provides mathematical logic in determining the likelihood of the sought-after choice from among a group of choices by dividing the group of choices in two groups to create a small group. Then, mandatory selection from the large group of choices is made. Afterward, random elimination must leave two choices standing, one is the sought-after choice and the second is the mandatory selection, one of which is elected as the likely sought-after choice. If the sought-after choice is also the mandatory selected choice, then the second surviving choice can be any other choice.
US08087986B2 Card gaming machine and card game playing method
Pai Gow Poker is played with a card gaming machine. In the Pai Gow Poker, a players' hand and a dealer's hand are compared for winning/losing judgment, and a prize based on the judgment result is awarded. If a side bet is made, a bonus target card group composed of five cards is determined from cards in the dealer's hand, irrespective of winning/losing judgment result. A bonus judgment process is carried out for the bonus target card group and a bonus payout based on the judgment result is awarded to the player.
US08087980B2 Positive air pressure isolation system
An air-pressure-control system, the system comprising a system inlet, a system outlet, and a variable-speed fan configured to operate at a speed. A motor controller in communication with the fan is configured to control the speed of the fan. A differential-pressure transducer configured to monitor an air pressure at the system inlet and an air pressure at the system outlet. A closed-loop pressure controller in communication with the motor controller and differential-pressure transducer, wherein the pressure controller is configured to vary the speed of the fan based on the pressure differential between the inlet and outlet of the system, thereby controlling a pressure within a space. An ultraviolet kill chamber may be disposed between the inlet and outlet to expose airborne particulate to UV radiation. The system may also have a filter located within an air-flow path between the system inlet and system outlet.
US08087978B2 Method and apparatus for removing skin and fat from meat parts
An apparatus and method for removing skin and fat from meat parts, includes a toothroll assembly. The toothroll assembly includes a first section having an outer surface, and a second section having an outer surface. The first section is adapted to rotate at a first surface speed, and the second section is adapted to rotate at a second surface speed independently from the first surface speed.
US08087976B2 Trigger assembly for angle grinder
An angle grinder is provided including a trigger assembly for selectively actuating the angle grinder. A particle separation assembly is provided for the removal of any dust, particle, or artifacts that may have entered into the housing of the angle grinder. A brush biasing system is also provided to ensure proper and efficient operation of the motor of the angle grinder. An overload monitoring system is included to monitor the loading on the motor. A clutch mechanism is also included to prevent overloading on the motor of the angle grinder. A gear wheel lock mechanism is also provided to prevent the wheel spindle from rotating during installation or removal of a grinding wheel on the wheel spindle. An anti-locking flange system is also included to prevent the over-tightening of the flanges and the grinder wheel during the operation of the angle grinder. A gear case labyrinth feature is also provided.
US08087973B1 Slider with leading edge blend and conformal step features
A method of forming a slider includes forming a leading edge blend on a leading edge of the slider. After the leading edge blend is formed, the method further includes forming at least one step feature conformal to the leading edge blend. A slider having an air bearing surface includes a leading edge blend and at least one step feature conformal to the leading edge blend.
US08087966B2 Method for the thermal treatment of tungsten electrodes free from thorium oxide for high-pressure discharge lamps
The invention relates to a method for the thermal treatment of tungsten electrodes having a fibrous mocrostructure and being free from thorium oxide for high-pressure discharge lamps, to such a tungsten electrode free from thorium oxide, to a method of manufacturing a high-pressure gas discharge lamp with at least one such tungsten electrode free from thorium oxide, to a high-pressure gas discharge lamp with at least one such tungsten electrode free from thorium oxide, and to a lighting unit with at least one such high-pressure gas discharge lamp.
US08087959B2 Detachable swim fin
A detachable swim fin includes a foot pocket and a fin blade. The fin blade is movably connected to the foot pocket through a locking buckle mechanism. With the detachable design of the fin blade and the foot pocket, the present invention provides an amphibious function. When they are detached, the foot pocket is capable of protecting the foot when walking on land, like a beach shoe or a fishing shoe. When they are assembled, the present invention is used as a swim fin. When going out, the user could take apart the swim fin for carrying conveniently and flexibly. This provides a compact and light design.
US08087951B1 Dual force single point actuation integrated load mechanism for securing a computer processor to a socket
A dual force single point actuation integrated load mechanism for securing a computer processor to a socket, the dual force single point actuation integrated load mechanism including a base mounted around the socket; and a load plate rotatably coupled to the base and secured to the base when an activate lever and a hinge lever are secured above the load plate.
US08087948B2 Waterproof structure for connector housing
A connector housing that is reduced in size in correspondence with reduction in size of a terminal. When a connecting terminal to which an electric wire and a waterproof sealing member are attached is inserted into a terminal accommodating hole from an terminal insertion opening, a step of the waterproof sealing member abuts against a step of the terminal insertion opening and also a taper surface meets a taper surface, preventing water from entering the terminal accommodating hole from the backside. In this state, the waterproof sealing member is pressed toward a connector housing by a rear holder to prevent the waterproof sealing member from falling out of position. Thus, because the terminal insertion opening is sealed, with a part of the waterproof sealing member placed outside the connector housing, the lateral width and vertical width of the terminal accommodating hole can be set to the magnitudes that substantially allow the connecting terminal to pass through the hole.
US08087946B2 Power adapter having a replaceable plug
A power adapter having a replaceable plug has a body having a recess formed in the body and an engagement mechanism inside the recess. A plug, slidably mounted inside the recess, has a bottom board having an engagement mechanism thereon and is slid so that the engagement mechanism of the plug engages or disengages the engagement mechanism inside the recess. A fixing cover is mounted inside the recess and is slidably moved to a first location and a second location. When located at the first location, the fixing cover is located inside the recess, the bottom board abuts the plug fixed inside the recess, and the plug is retrained restrained from moving. When located at the second location, the fixing cover is partially moved away from the recess and maintains a distance to the bottom board, and the plug can be removed from the recess.
US08087944B2 Connector and connector combination for balanced transmission
A connector includes a ground contact formed by a plate-shaped conductor member extending in a longitudinal direction of the connector, and a plurality of signal contact pairs arranged on both sides of the ground contact, with two signal contacts forming each signal contact pair arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. The ground contact may include a plurality of first lead parts alternately extending towards mutually opposite sides of the plate-shaped conductor member.
US08087942B2 Board-to-board connector assembly
A board-to-board connector assembly includes a receptacle connector and a plug connector. The receptacle connector has a receptacle housing, a plurality of first terminals disposed in the receptacle housing, and at least one first fixing member mounted to the receptacle housing. The first fixing member has a first base portion, an elastic portion bending toward one side and then extending downward from a top of the first base portion. An outside portion of the elastic portion defines a fixing cavity opposite to the first base portion. The plug connector has a plug housing mated with the receptacle housing, a plurality of second terminals disposed in the plug housing and contacting the corresponding first terminals, and at least one second fixing member mounted in the plug housing and defining at least one fixing portion which is buckled into the fixing cavity of the corresponding first fixing member.
US08087941B2 Grid array connector comprising a plurality of base units within a frame
An electrical connector (1) for receiving an IC package is provided and includes a frame unit (2) having an opening (21) therein, at least two base units (3) received in the opening (21), and a plurality of contacts (4) retained in the base units (3) respectively. The base units move relative to one another by the force applied by the contacts therein.
US08087940B1 Coaxial electric connector
A coaxial electric connector includes primarily a dielectric shell and a housing unit which is in an arc shape. The dielectric shell is formed by extrusion formation based on the housing unit and defines an annular space, with a predetermined wall being formed with two fixing sections to define the arc according to the housing unit. Besides, a bottom of the dielectric shell is a dielectric base and an interior of the dielectric shell contains additionally a conductor, a position of which is fixed by the dielectric base. A conductor pin on the conductor, whereas, is extended outward from the dielectric base. Through wrapping of the dielectric shell, the housing unit increases roundness of the entire housing and decreases scratching on a surface of metal part, which occurs when manufacturing the products, thereby improving a yield rate and a service life of the products.
US08087935B2 Implant delivery system
An implant delivery system includes a carrier that is attached to an implant. The carrier includes a main body having a lower portion to be attached to the implant and an upper portion. The upper portion includes an internally threaded section having a polygonal internal cross-section. The polygonal cross-section engages a tool that applies torque to install the implant into bone. The threaded section receives a threaded portion of a secondary component to be coupled to the carrier after the implant has been installed. One secondary component is a gingival healing component. Thus, the combination of the carrier and the gingival healing component acts as a healing abutment after the carrier has been used to install the implant.
US08087934B2 Oral implant placement system and method
An oral implant system and method. The system includes a positioning tool, a transfer band, a transfer screw, and a transfer drill to provide for accurate placement of a dental implant parallel to other implants and or existing teeth and at predetermined depths. A model is made of the patient's maxilla and mandible. The model is marked for implant position, depth and size. Holes are drilled in the model for implant analogs using the positioning tool. The analogs are installed into the model using the positioning tool and a surveyor. Transfer bands are coupled to the analogs and a surgical stent portion is fabricated. The surgical stent is fitted to the patient's occlusion, secured, and then utilized to accurately drill apertures into the patient's maxilla or mandible. The implants are installed into the apertures and the surgical stent is removed. A final restoration is secured to the implants.
US08087932B2 Correcting the position of teeth in dental arch model
A method of correcting a dental arch model so that it accurately reflects the current arrangement of a subject's teeth includes positioning a plurality of tooth models in a corrected arrangement using a representation of at least a portion of a subject's current dental arch (wherein the tooth models comprise models of the subject's teeth having fiduciary markers), and producing a base plate configured to hold the plurality of tooth models in the corrected arrangement. The representation of the current arrangement may be, for example, a physical impression of the subject's teeth, a 3D scan or one or more 2D scans of the subject's teeth.
US08087929B2 Equipment and method for heating gas in connection with sintering
The invention relates to equipment for heating gas in connection with continuous sintering in gas channels placed above a strand, the gas channels comprising at least a wall and at least two gas units, the gas coming from the gas units being in contact with the material on the strand, whereby at least one burner unit is arranged in at least one of the gas channels, being arranged as part of the gas channel, the burner unit comprising at least one separate combustion space arranged on the wall of the gas channel. The invention also relates to a method for heating the gas.
US08087926B2 Oxy-fuel combustion with integrated pollution control
An oxygen fueled integrated pollutant removal and combustion system includes a combustion system and an integrated pollutant removal system. The combustion system includes a furnace having at least one burner that is configured to substantially prevent the introduction of air. An oxygen supply supplies oxygen at a predetermine purity greater than 21 percent and a carbon based fuel supply supplies a carbon based fuel. Oxygen and fuel are fed into the furnace in controlled proportion to each other and combustion is controlled to produce a flame temperature in excess of 3000 degrees F. and a flue gas stream containing CO2 and other gases. The flue gas stream is substantially void of non-fuel borne nitrogen containing combustion produced gaseous compounds. The integrated pollutant removal system includes at least one direct contact heat exchanger for bringing the flue gas into intimated contact with a cooling liquid to produce a pollutant-laden liquid stream and a stripped flue gas stream and at least one compressor for receiving and compressing the stripped flue gas stream.
US08087921B2 Extrusion mold and method of use
In one embodiment of the invention a mold system and method of use are provided such that aqueous starch-based compositions and baked goods articles that use the conversion of water to steam may be produced using an extruder that allows the venting of such gases and/or steam. The extruder is vented in such a way as to allow steam to escape, but retain the composition until the exit end.
US08087917B2 Plant for continuously manufacturing a foam layer to form rest articles
A plant for manufacturing a continuous latex foam layer (2) to form mattresses (6) provided with cells (5). The plant comprises a plurality of laying planes (7) provided with a plurality of separate tables (13) separately arranged side by side to form a surface for the foam deposit.Each table comprises protuberances (14) and the arrangement of the protuberances on a table can differ from that of the juxtaposed tables in order to create supporting areas for the different body parts of the user.Preferably the tables (13) with their protuberances (14) are slidably fitted onto the laying planes (7) and can be easily and quickly replaced with separately provided tables having protuberances (14) differently arranged in order to meet the support capacity values required by different users.
US08087912B2 Crankshaft having first and second eccentric portions
A crankshaft is to be provided that allows its assembly process to be simplified, work hours required for the assembly process to be shortened and a manufacturing cost to be reduced. The crankshaft is provided with first eccentric section and second eccentric section at respective ends while interposing a shaft section therebetween and has such a shape that a peripheral edge of the first eccentric section and/or the second eccentric section is positioned radially inside of a peripheral edge of the shaft section.
US08087911B2 Pump of electronically controlled brake system
A pump of an electronically controlled brake system. The pump includes a bore formed in a modulator block and connected with a suction port and a discharge port, a piston installed in the bore in a reciprocating movable manner and defining an inlet path therein, an inlet valve to open or close an exit-side end of the inlet path according to a position of the piston, and an outlet valve provided at one side of the bore, operations of the inlet and outlet valves being contrary to each other. The outlet valve includes a valve seat, a sleeve to surround the valve seat, an outlet ball interposed between the sleeve and the valve seat and used to open or close a path defined in the valve seat, and a valve cap provided at one side of the sleeve to isolate an interior from an exterior of the bore. One or more of the valve sheet, sleeve, and valve cap are formed by press-forming, to achieve improved assembly efficiency and reduced manufacturing costs.
US08087904B2 Hybrid hydraulic-electric RAM pumping unit with downstroke energy recovery
A hybrid hydraulic-electric pumping unit (12) with downstroke energy recovery is disclosed which is operated in a conventional flow mode to supply hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic ram (26), and then is operated in a reverse flow mode to receive the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic ram (26) and turn an electric motor (16) to generate electric power. A single hydraulic hose (48) connects the pump (18) to the hydraulic ram (26), and is used for both passing the hydraulic fluid from the pump (18) to the hydraulic ram (26) and from the ram (26) to the pump (18). The potential energy of the weight of sucker rods (10) lifted in operating the pumping unit (12) is recovered by operating the pump (18) and motor (16) with return of the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic ram (26) through the pump (18), which turns the motor (16) to generate electric power.
US08087901B2 Fluid channeling device for back-to-back compressors
A fluid channeling device including a channeling body, an axial transfer channel, and a radial outlet channel. The channeling body includes first and second annular body sections spaced axially apart and a tubular body section extending between the first and second body sections. The axial transfer channel is defined axially through the channeling body, and is configured to fluidly couple a first compression assembly with a second compression assembly. The radial outlet channel is defined radially through the channeling body and is configured to fluidly couple the second compression assembly with an outlet.
US08087894B2 Aperture and flap vertical axis wind machine
A vertical axis wind machine having a mechanism of apertures and flaps to reduce return blade wind drag. The aperture and flap vertical axis wind machine has improved rotational speed and torque in relation to existing vertical axis wind machines. The aperture and flap vertical axis wind machine is also quieter, has fewer moving parts, requires no feathering controls to operate in high wind speeds, and can be operated independent of wind direction.
US08087893B1 Turbine blade with showerhead film cooling holes
A turbine rotor blade with a showerhead arrangement of film cooling air for cooling the leading edge of the airfoil, where the film cooling holes each includes a tear drop shaped opening that extends in a radial direction of the airfoil from the film hole breakout and functions to spread out the film layer of cooling air that is ejected from the holes so that a hot streak between holes along the pressure side row and the suction side row of film holes does not occur. The tear drop shaped opening have a shallow depth and include a divider wall extend down the middle to divide the opening.
US08087891B1 Turbine blade with tip region cooling
A turbine blade with a tip region cooling circuit in which cooling air from a serpentine flow circuit in the main airfoil body passes into the tip cooling circuit and around the suction side and pressure side walls to better cool the airfoil and tip with low cooling air flow. A 5-pass serpentine circuit with a first leg is located along the leading edge and is connected directly to a showerhead arrangement to provide film cooling for the leading edge. The 5-pass serpentine circuit, discharges cooling air from the last leg into impingement holes and exit slots spaced along the trailing edge. The remaining cooling air from the 5-pass serpentine flows from the last leg and into the 2-pass serpentine flow circuit located within the tip section. The cooling air flows along the suction side first, makes a turn around the leading edge in the tip, and then flows along the suction side passage where a row of film cooling holes discharges film cooling air onto the pressure side tip surface. The remaining cooling air flows through a trailing edge tip hole and is discharged.
US08087889B2 Wind turbine blade with deflectable flaps
A wind turbine having at least a blade comprising a first component having an aerodynamic profile with a leading edge, a trailing edge, and suction and pressure sides between the leading edge and the trailing edge, and a second component, attached to the trailing edge and/or to the leading edge of the first component in at least a part of the blade. An upwards and/or downwards deflectable flap allows changing the flow over the blade, in which the unit for deflecting the flap is a fluid inflatable unit placed in a flap inner chamber close to the first component and in which the wind turbine comprises a unit for controlling the inflatable unit depending on the wind situation and/or the blade loads.
US08087888B2 Wind turbine blade with cambering flaps
A wind turbine having at least a blade comprising a first component (11) having an aerodynamic profile with a leading edge (5), a trailing edge (7) and suction and pressure sides between the leading edge (5) and the trailing edge (7) and a second component (13) attached to the trailing edge (7) and/or to the leading edge (5) of the first component (11) in at least a part of the blade, in which the second component (13) comprises an upwards and/or downwards deflectable flap (15) that allows changing the flow over the blade and in which the means for deflecting the flap (15) comprise a stiff plate (31) inserted between the first component (11) and the flap (15) and stiff plate actuating means (33, 43).
US08087887B2 Fan and fan frame thereof
A fan includes an impeller, a motor and a fan frame. The motor is coupled to the impeller and drives the impeller to rotate. The impeller and the motor are accommodated in the fan frame. The fan frame has a main body, an inner circular portion formed with a passage, a guiding portion forming an outlet of the fan, a motor base and a plurality of supporting elements. The guiding portion is connected to the inner circular portion. The motor base is disposed in the center of the passage on the main body. The supporting elements are connected between the main body and the motor base, and each of the supporting elements has a suspended portion which is not connected to the guiding portion.
US08087883B2 Cylindrical-rod device for controlling a variable-pitch vane of a turbomachine
A variable-pitch control device for a turbomachine compressor is disclosed. The device includes a rod, a fastening device for fastening a first end of the rod to a pivot of a vane to be controlled, and a connection device between a second end of the rod and a control ring. The rod is substantially cylindrical, its first end being engaged in a bore in the pivot of the vane. The device further includes a clamping device for clamping the first end of the rod in the bore in the pivot in order to fasten it to the pivot.
US08087881B1 Damped stator assembly
A stator assembly having an inner shroud and an outer shroud with a plurality of airfoils extending between the shrouds, and a vibration damping horn extending from one of the shrouds and aligned with the airfoil, the vibration damping horn having a higher stiffness than the airfoil, and where the vibration damping horn vibrates against a damping spring or within a viscous fluid to dampen the vibration of the stator assembly. The vibration damping horns are thicker than the airfoils to provide for the higher stiffness. The damping spring is enclosed between the shroud and seal to support the spring.
US08087878B2 Powerless diversion plate of a ceiling air-conditioning circulation machine
A powerless diversion plate of a ceiling air-conditioning circulation machine includes a bearing block and a bearing within a circular inflow/outflow hole for installing a diversion disc having a plurality of radial separation pieces. A plurality of conic and ring-shaped diversion pieces are positioned around the connection shaft. The diversion disc is separated by the ring-shaped diversion pieces and the radial separation pieces to create air inflow/outflow zones. The diversion disc has a downward protruding middle part and a staged structure at the rim thereof to form a predetermined shape. This obviates a powered motor, as the radial separation pieces of the diversion disc serve as a working surface, and respond to forced air for causing the diversion disc to be driven in 360° rotation to diffuse air downward or suck air upward in a flowing way, thereby enhancing air-outflowing and convection efficiency and reducing energy consumption and carbon release.
US08087877B2 Fan array fan section in air-handling systems
A fan array fan section in an air handling system includes a plurality of fan units arranged in a fan array and positioned within an air handling compartment. One preferred embodiment may include an array controller program to operate the plurality of the fan units at peak efficiency. The plurality of fan units may be arranged in a true array configuration, a space pattern array configuration, a checker board array configuration, rows slightly offset configuration, columns slightly offset configuration, or a staggered array configuration.
US08087876B2 Fuel pump
A fuel pump includes an impeller and a casing member. The impeller defines a plurality of vane grooves arranged in a circumferential direction. The casing member receives the impeller, and the casing member defines therein a pump passage configured to have an arcuate shape along the vane grooves. The discharge passage is provided downstream of the pressurizing passage. The discharge passage has a width narrower than a width of the pressurizing passage, and the discharge passage is positioned toward a radially outer wall of the pressurizing passage. The pressurizing passage includes a throttle part that extends from a starting point to an inlet of the discharge passage. The throttle part has a first width at the starting point, which corresponds to the width of the pressurizing passage, and a second width at the inlet, which corresponds to the width of the discharge passage.
US08087874B2 Retention structures and exit guide vane assemblies
A retention structure includes a center body including an outer surface, an enclosed end, an open end, and a contact section, the outer surface adapted to define a first portion of a flowpath, and the contact section extending radially outwardly from a centerline and located on the enclosed end and configured to reduce a radial and a torsional component of a first load that exceeds a first threshold applied to the contact section, when the turbine rotates and applies the first load to the contact section and an energy absorber coupled to the center body, disposed adjacent to the contact section, and having an outer surface adapted to define a second portion of the flowpath, the energy absorber further adapted to collapse, when the turbine rotates and contacts the energy absorber and applies a second load that exceeds a second threshold to the energy absorber.
US08087864B2 Molded pin for coupling two or more members
A connecting pin includes a head and a body having a first end connected to the head. The body includes an underside having at least one surface arranged on a first plane parallel to a longitudinal direction. The body also includes a nose at a second end, the nose having an lower surface that extends upwardly and outwardly from the body underside. The body further includes an inclined surface extending to from an upper surface of the nose in the direction of the head.
US08087859B2 Systems and methods for separating cargo spaces
Some embodiments of a system for separating cargo spaces in a temperature-controlled cargo container (such as a refrigerated trailer) can include first and second panels that are mountable in an interior space of the cargo container by a track-mounting system to movably support the first and second half-width bulkhead panels in the trailer. The first and second panels may have a generally flexible construction to absorb impacts from cargo, forklifts, or the like, but may also include stiffening members that are coupled to the first and second panels to provide added rigidity in particular orientations.
US08087858B2 Vise-mounted milling machine collet indexer
An instantly aligning collet indexer that can be instantly mounted on the standard tooling vises found on most milling machines. A constant clamping pneumatic collet closing system with the valve and manifold is built into the body. The design is compact enough to fit in any standard 6″ machine tool vise and rigid enough to be useful for machining operations. The collet indexer can be used in a vertical or horizontal position in a typical mill vise of a milling machine. The device can be driven by a simple graduated hand crank or by a servo type motor controlled by various programs used in conjunction with a computer.
US08087856B2 Double helix thread cutting tap
The invention includes a double helix thread cutting tap with both right-handed and left-handed helical chip removal flutes. The double helix thread cutting tap places a positive rake angle on all sets of thread cutting teeth for optimum performance and minimal cutting pressure.
US08087853B2 Adjustable pocket hole apparatus
In the pocket hole apparatus of the present invention, a table reciprocates linearly relative to a base. An anvil is fixed relative to the base and holds the workpiece on a sloped top surface at the desired angle for the pocket hole. A drill spindle with a drill bit is fixed relative to the table. After the workpiece is mounted to the anvil, the table is moved to drill the pocket hole. Optionally, a second spindle on the opposite side of the anvil predrills the pocket hole when the table is first moved to a predrill position. The spindle is enabled or disabled by latching mechanism. The spindle is mounted to a rail that is slidably mounted to the table so that the rail can slide perpendicularly thereby adjusting the spacing between pocket holes.
US08087848B2 Powered sheave for node deployment and retrieval
A method and apparatus for deploying a plurality of seismic sensor units into a water column is described. The method includes providing a length of flexible cable from a cable storage device disposed on a vessel to a powered sheave, the cable having a plurality of spaced apart attachment points, routing the cable from the powered sheave to pass adjacent a workstation disposed on the vessel, deploying a free end of the cable into the water column while increasing the motion of the vessel to a first speed, operating the vessel at the first speed while providing a deployment rate of the cable at a second speed, the second speed being greater than the first speed, decreasing the second speed of the cable as an attachment point approaches the work station, and attaching at least one of the plurality of seismic sensor units to the attachment point at the workstation.
US08087841B2 Retractable pen with retraction-linking device for extending pen-body
A retractable pen includes an improved triggering device (i.e., an actuating means), which is easy for manufacturing and user-friendly. The retractable pen has a pen-body having two pen-tubes, a pen-cartridge within the pen-body, and an actuating means. The actuating means not only triggers the movement of pen-cartridge (slidable protrusion/retraction of the pen-cartridge) but also, at the meantime, triggers length-change of pen-body (slidable movement between the two pen-tubes).
US08087835B2 Lens barrel and imaging apparatus
Disclosed are a lens barrel capable of preventing a reduction in strength while maintaining a small size and a small thickness and an imaging apparatus including the lens barrel. A first moving cylinder in which a cam groove to which a second cam follower pin is fitted is provided in an inner surface is arranged outside a cam cylinder having the second cam follower pin provided on an outer surface thereof. In addition, a third lens group frame in which a cam follower pin fitted to one of the cam grooves is provided on an outer surface and a second lens group frame in which a cam follower pin fitted to the other groove is provided on an outer surface are arranged inside the cam cylinder having the cam grooves provided in the inner surface thereof.
US08087831B2 Rotary support for wheel with encoder
It is prevented that magnetic foreign matter adheres the magnet encoder 3a to deteriorate the reliability of rotation speed detection with the sensor 4a. The encoder 3a is provided on the outside of the combined seal ring 19 with reference to the bearing interior space 24, and the sensor 4a faces the encoder 3a. The knuckle 21 is placed close to the housing 33 of the drive shaft member 28 of the constant velocity joint 27 to form a labyrinth seal 20. The width of the clearance of this labyrinth seal 20 is up to 40% of the pitch of adjacent S-poles and N-poles that are arranged on the detected surface of the encoder 3a. With this construction, larger foreign matter is prevented from attaching to the detected surface of the encoder 3a to solve the above subject.
US08087830B2 Radially mobile floating bearing
Disclosed is a radially movable floating bearing for a shaft of a gear of a steering system, comprising a bushing or an inner ring or a rolling bearing, which is supported in a seat of a frame or housing of the gear. The inner ring or the bushing or the rolling bearing is held by at least one support element made of material having elastomeric properties which is inserted into a gap between the seat and the inner ring, the support element being designed as a pivot bearing. In order to provide a radially movable floating bearing for a steering system gear shaft, which is low-noise, easy to pivot and highly resilient, the pivot bearing cooperates with a damping stop disposed tangentially at a distance thereto, the stop being disposed at a radial distance from the inner ring or the seat.
US08087828B2 Synthetic resin bag having an easy opening function
There is provided a synthetic resin bag having an easy-opening function in which an opening operation can be easily made on a side of an opening section of a bag body while it is prevented on a side of an interior section of the bag body and comprising two front and back panel films 1a and 1b of the bag body and two easy peel tapes 4a and 4b each including an easy peel layer and a thermally adhesive layer and disposed inside of the panel films of the bag body in an opening section 2 thereof over the whole lateral widths thereof, the easy peel layers of the two easy peel tapes faced to each other being weakly adhered to each other as indicated by a reference numeral 6 and the thermally adhesive layers of the two easy peel tapes being strongly adhered as indicated by reference numerals 5a and 5b to the inner faces of the panel films 1a and 1b of the bag body, respectively, so that the thermally adhesive layers have adhesion width difference of long and short widths C1 and C2 in a direction perpendicular to the lateral width of the bag body whereby the easy peel tapes can be easily separated on the side of the opening section 2 of the bag body while the easy peel tapes can be prevented from being separated on the side of the interior section of the bag body.
US08087826B1 Slider track with improved seal strength
Rolling action reclosable fastener comprises a male track including a male profile, a female track including a female profile, and a slider disposed on the male and female tracks to matingly engage the male profile and the female profile. The slider includes a back and a pair of sidewall depending therefrom. The slider also includes a separator finger depending from the back between the pair of sidewalls and shaped along its length to first press together a bottom of the male and female profiles and then roll the profiles closed toward a top thereof as the slider moves toward the closed condition. The male profile comprises a base and a rib with a hook portion having an inwardly-directed surface including a projection defining an engagement surface. The female profile comprises a base and a first flange having an inwardly-directed surface including a projection defining an engaging surface. The engaging surface of the female track engages the engagement surface of the male track when in a closed condition with at least a portion of the male profile received by at least a portion of the female profile. A reclosable plastic bag with a rolling action reclosable fastener is also provided.
US08087825B2 Mechanical and electronic temperature reading system with built-in failure and inaccuracy detection
Temperature-indicting system including a mechanical temperature-indicating system including a bourdon tube for directly driving an indicating pointer, and an electrical temperature-indicating system including an electronic sensor, a transmitter and one or more electrical switches. The transmitter is modular and easily replaceable. Output of the pointer and the transmitter is synchronized relative to accuracy so that comparison of switch points of the switches that correlate temperature determined by the mechanical system and temperature determined by the electronic system enables detection of a failure or inaccuracy in one or both systems.
US08087821B2 Infrared heated differential scanning calorimeter
A heat flux differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) is disclosed. The DSC can be configured with a highly conductive sample assembly enclosure. The enclosure can include a high emissivity coating. In one embodiment, the enclosure extends along a longitudinal direction that is about the same as that of an infrared lamp assembly used to heat the enclosure, thereby increasing the efficiency of heating the sample enclosure. In one embodiment, a gas-filled thermal resistor is used to couple the measurement assembly to a heat sink, such that samples can be rapidly heated and rapidly cooled.
US08087811B2 Display
A display including a light source for generating light, an optical waveguide for receiving and evenly distributing light in a light propagation direction by total internal reflections and a matrix of picture elements constructed on the upper surface of the waveguide, the picture elements including electrically activated micro-mechanical actuators having optical properties for modulating light to produce an image.
US08087803B2 LED lamp
An LED lamp includes a housing, a holder and an LED device pivotally connected with the holder. The LED device includes a cylinder-shaped casing having opposite first and second openings and air venting holes near the first opening. An LED module and a heat dissipating fan are respectively mounted at two ends of a heat sink. The LED module, the heat sink and the heat dissipating fan are assembled together as a unit, which is received in the casing. An airflow generated by the heat dissipating fan is directed into the casing through the second opening. A portion of the airflow is exhausted out of the casing through fins of the heat sink and the first opening, and another portion of the airflow is exhausted out of the casing through the fins and the air venting holes of the casing.
US08087802B1 Compact florescent lamp cover
A cover for a spiral-type compact florescent lamp includes a cover body and a connector extending from the cover body to the compact florescent lamp and connecting the cover to the compact florescent lamp with the cover body disposed adjacent to the lamp coil structure and covering the lamp coil structure.
US08087799B2 Illumination means and inspection means having an illumination means
An illumination mean for the inspection of flat substrates is disclosed. The flat substrate includes an upper edge area, a lower edge area and a front area. The illumination means is formed as an annular segment and comprises an opening into which at least the edge area of the flat substrate extends. A plurality of light sources are arranged on an annular segment in a housing. Inside the housing, a reflective element is provided so that the light from the light sources does not impinge perpendicularly on the upper edge area, the lower edge area and the front area of the flat substrate.
US08087793B2 Back-light assembly
A back-light assembly for uniformly illuminating large area displays. The back-light assembly includes a uniformly thin waveguide, a reflector and a plurality of light sources evenly distributed along the display area between the waveguide and the reflector. Prismatic facets are provided along the lower surface of the waveguide for effectively coupling light emitted from light sources into the waveguide.
US08087792B2 Variable sized optical beam homogenizer and method
An optical beam homogenizer having an adjustable homogenizer chamber for selectively producing different sized homogenized output beams and related methods in accordance with one or more embodiments is described herein.
US08087791B2 Methods and systems for adjusting the position of vehicle outside mirrors
A method for adjusting an outside mirror of a vehicle includes providing at least one seat position sensor, a driver position detector and a mirror actuator. The position of the driver's seat is determined with the at least one seat position sensor. An angular orientation of the outside mirror is adjusted with the mirror actuator based on the determined position of the driver's seat such that a rear of the vehicle is visible in the outside mirror. Thereafter, a location of a driver's head may be determined with the driver position detector when the driver is seated in the driver's seat. The angular orientation of the outside mirror is readjusted with the mirror actuator based on the detected position of the driver's head such that a rear of the vehicle is visible in the outside mirror when the driver is seated in the driver's seat.
US08087790B2 Projector
A projector includes: an outer housing; and a plurality of handles provided on an upper surface of the outer housing to hold the projector, wherein each of the handles includes a pair of attachment members standing on the upper surface, and a grip member connected with the pair of the attachment members and extended substantially in parallel with the upper surface.
US08087788B2 Projector with cooling configuration
A projector includes a casing, an optical engine, and a heat dissipating module. The casing includes a first sidewall, a front wall defining a hole, a second sidewall, and a rear wall connected in sequence. The optical engine includes a lens module substantially aligned with the hole defined by the front wall, a DMD, and an illuminator module. The illuminator module is arranged at a side of the lens module away from the second sidewall, and includes a housing having a side surface away from the lens module and at least one light source installed on the side surface. The heat dissipating module includes a first heat sink attached to the at least one light source, a blower, and an exhaust fan. The blower is for blowing air towards the first heat sink from an air inlet.
US08087782B2 Devices and methods of selecting intraocular lenses
The invention relates to devices and methods for selecting IOLs for implantation and eye models useful with the methods. One method comprises the steps of determining the axial eye length, the pupil size at a desired light level; the desired postoperative refraction; determining an aspheric representation of the corneal curvature and determining the location of the plane of fixation of the IOL following implantation.
US08087779B2 Phase modulation device for an ophthalmic instrument, ophthalmic instruments equipped with such device, and related calibration method
A phase modulation device implemented in an ophthalmic instrument using a main light beam interacting with an eye, the device including: an apparatus for modulating the phase of the wave front of the main light beam, a controller for controlling the phase modulation apparatus following a modulation instruction, and an analyzer for analyzing the thus-performed modulation of the phase of the wave front of the main light beam, further including emitting a secondary light beam, an apparatus for directing the secondary light beam along an optical path to the modulation apparatus, then to the analyzer, and in that the optical path does not pass through the eye, and in that the controller and the analyzer receiving the modulated secondary light beam cooperate, during a stage called a learning stage, to supply data regarding the response of the phase modulation apparatus to a set of predetermined modulation instructions.
US08087778B2 Variable focus liquid filled lens mechanism
A mechanism allows for changing the optical strength of a liquid-filled lens having a cavity filled with fluid. A reservoir contains additional fluid and is in fluid communication with the cavity, and the mechanism draws fluid from the reservoir into the cavity or pulls fluid from the cavity back into the reservoir, whereby a change in the amount of fluid within the lens cavity changes the lens's optical strength. A membrane seals the reservoir, and a plunger impinges upon the membrane. A movement device, such as a barrel screw or lever, moves the plunger in a controlled manner toward the membrane to increase pressure within the reservoir and thereby force fluid out of the reservoir into the lens cavity, and away from the membrane to decrease pressure within the reservoir and thereby withdraw fluid from the lens cavity and into the reservoir.
US08087773B2 Ink jet printing depth of focus control apparatus
A system for maintaining depth of focus in an ink jet printer between a series of print heads and corrugated media includes a vacuum transport in combination with an acquisition cylinder positioned upstream of the series of print heads in order to help the vacuum transport acquire the corrugated media and work in conjunction with a series of star wheels distributed about and positioned immediately adjacent to each of the series of print heads to suppress cross process direction curl.
US08087762B2 Ink storing system and ink delivering system
An ink reservoir mechanism includes a ink reservioring portion for directly reservoiring ink to be supplied to an ink jet recording head, the ink reservoiring portion having a reservoiring volume which reduces with consumption of the ink and being provided with an air-liquid separation device; a negative pressure source, having a variable inner volume, for normally applying a negative pressure to the ink reservoiring portion through the air-liquid separation device; and a connection path for connecting the negative pressure source and the ink reservoiring portion through the air-liquid separation device.
US08087756B2 Heater chips with silicon die bonded on silicon substrate
A heater chip has a substrate and at least one die, made of silicon, and a bond non-adhesively attaching them. The substrate, thick enough to resist bowing, has ink supply vias from back to front surfaces. The die has ink flow vias from back to front surfaces and circuitry including heater elements adjacent the front surface interspersed with ink flow vias. The at least one die is superimposed on the substrate such that ink supply vias of the substrate align with ink flow vias of the die and portions of substrate front surface and die back surface are aligned, disposed adjacent and facing one another. The bond formed between substrate and die facing surface portions is hermetic and equal in strength to a Si—O bond. A metal through the die connects a conductor on a front of the substrate to a heater element on a front of the die.
US08087755B2 System for printing 3D semiconductor products
A system for printing three-dimensional semiconductor products. The system includes printheads for printing various so as to create a three-dimensional structure including cavities, and a robot for incorporating semiconductor objects into the cavities created during the printing process. The robot incorporates the semiconductor objects into the cavities during printing of the three-dimensional structure.
US08087754B2 Electrostatic actuator, droplet discharge head, method for driving droplet discharge head, and method for manufacturing electrostatic actuator
To provide an electrostatic actuator capable of attaining a large diaphragm displacement by low voltage drive. Furthermore, a droplet discharge head provided with this electrostatic actuator, a method for driving a droplet discharge head, and a method for manufacturing an electrostatic actuator are provided. A diaphragm 4, an individual electrode 11 facing the diaphragm 4 with a gap 10 therebetween, while a voltage is applied between the diaphragm 4 and the individual electrode 11, and an insulating film 4a which is disposed on a surface of the diaphragm 4, the surface facing the individual electrode 11, are included, wherein the insulating film 4a is converted to an electret.
US08087753B2 Method for modular arrangement of a silicon based array and modular silicon based array
A silicon based module, including: a substrate; a first chip assembly fixed to the substrate, the first chip assembly including a first silicon chip and a first driver die having electrical circuitry; and a second chip assembly fixed to the substrate, the second chip assembly including a second silicon chip and a second driver die having electrical circuitry. Portions of the first and second chip assemblies are aligned in a longitudinal direction for the substrate; and portions of the first and second silicon chips are aligned in a width direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Method for forming a silicon based module.
US08087752B2 Apparatus for printhead mounting
A printhead assembly including a printhead module and a mounting structure is described. The printhead module is mounted on a receiving surface of the mounting structure and includes a first edge and a second edge opposite the first edge. The first and second edges extend beyond edges of the receiving surface by a first distance in a first direction and are positioned between featured edges of the mounting structure in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Each featured edge includes a first feature protruding from the featured edge by a second distance in the first direction, where the second distance is greater than the first distance. The first features extend beyond the first and second edges of the printhead module. Each featured edge includes a recessed second feature configured to receive a first feature of a neighboring mounting structure.
US08087749B2 Ink jet recording head, ink jet cartridge, and method for manufacturing ink jet recording head
An ink jet recording head has an array of ink ejection outlets in an ejection outlet forming surface, to which a protection tape is adhered during transportation. The ejection outlet forming surface has an outside area which is outside of each of opposite ends of the array with respect to a direction of the array, and the outside area has a peel resistance, provided by surface modification, which resistance is higher than in another portion of the ejection outlet forming surface.
US08087735B1 Free standing furniture kit and method of assembly
A free standing furniture apparatus including a furniture unit having a unit height dimension, a base including a base wall having a base height dimension and first and second separated base wall ends, the base wall at least in part circumscribing a base space where the base wall includes a top edge surface that resides substantially in a single edge plane and a back wall member supported by the base wall proximate the first and second ends of the base wall member and extending substantially vertically upward from the base wall member and substantially perpendicular to the single edge plane so that there is a receiving space that is unobstructed by the back wall member and that is above the base space for receiving the furniture unit, the back wall member having a back wall height dimension that is greater than the unit height dimension so that at least a portion of the back wall member is observable above the furniture unit when the furniture unit is received within the receiving space, wherein the furniture unit is receivable on the top edge surface of the base wall within the receiving space.
US08087732B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a circuit failure in a vehicle brake system
In a vehicle brake system including first and second brake circuits, a dual-circuit brake actuator, first and second control lines, the first brake circuit including a first brake pressure regulating valve and a first pressure sensor, the second brake circuit including a second brake pressure regulating valve and a second pressure sensor, the brake actuator connected to the first valve via the first control line to control that valve, and, via the second control line, to the second valve to control that valve, a control unit is communicatively connected to the pressure sensors and brake actuator and is adapted to effect a method for detecting a brake system circuit failure including determining a first pressure difference in the first brake circuit and a second pressure difference in the second brake circuit during actuation of the brake actuator, and determining a first comparison value from the first and second pressure differences.
US08087729B2 Aircraft seat
A seat for use in an aircraft having a floor is disclosed. The seat has a support assembly adapted to be secured to the floor, a seat having a central portion and a rear portion, a seat back pivotably coupled to the support assembly for movement between an upright position and a reclined position relative to the support assembly. A pivot assembly couples the central portion of the seat to the support assembly for permitting the seat to pivot about a pivot axis relative to the support assembly. A connector assembly couples the rear portion of the seat to the seat back for causing the rear portion of the seat to pivot downwardly about the pivot axis in unison with the seat back as the seat back moves from the upright position to the reclined position A method of construction of an aircraft seat frame is also disclosed. An armrest for an aircraft seat is further disclosed.
US08087726B2 Back cushion
A back cushion includes an enclosure portion, a buffer portion, a filler portion and a fixing portion. The enclosure portion has a first surface/layer and a second surface/layer. The buffer portion and the filler portion are placed in the internal space of the enclosure portion. The buffer portion is in contact with the first layer and the rear surface of the filler portion is in contact with the second layer. The fixing portion is connected with the second layer of the enclosure portion. The fixing portion enables the back cushion to be attached to a suitable place of a chair or a supporting member. The buffer portion allows the back of a user can be comfortably cushioned and supported and hence injuries to his back may be avoided.
US08087723B2 Crashworthy seat for a vehicle
A crashworthy seat for a vehicle comprises a stand including a first and a second foot connected mechanically to a first and a second vertical support leg; a pan connected by the stand to a floor wherein the first and the second feet are disposed on each side of the pan, the pan including a seat proper and a seat back, wherein the seat back has a support element secured to the first and the second vertical support legs configured to support the seat back; a guide element configured to guide the pan in translation; an energy absorber device; a first anchor point secured to the first distal end of the absorber portion; and a second anchor point secured to the second distal end of the absorber portion.
US08087722B2 Armchair with a storage device
An armchair with a storage device, the storage device is disposed in the space between the arm rest and the seat and used to store goods. The user can open and close the storage device very easily while seating in the armchair, making it convenient for the user to store or take out goods. Furthermore, the armchair with a storage device is easy to assemble and simply structured without changing too much the structure of the armchair.
US08087721B2 Reinforcement bracket and related methods for on-line painting
A vehicle body assembly for on-line painting includes a polymeric fender and a polymeric bracket adhesively bonded to the fender. The bracket includes finger-like extensions received by an edge flange of the fender. The bracket includes a tab extension extending from an opening of the bracket engaging a support structure frame member for limited thermal expansion deformation of the fender. The adhesive a resin component and a curative component providing an initial partial cure for handling of the bracket and fender and a subsequent more fully-cured condition following high temperature baking in the on-line painting process. The assembly can also include fasteners securing the bracket to the fender to limit peeling separation of an adhesive connection provided by the adhesive.
US08087720B2 Vehicle closure panel assembly and method
A closure panel assembly includes an inner and an outer panel, the inner panel having a crimped edge surface feature and a textured surface feature such as a set of radial projections or asperities. Adhesive material is applied between the panels, and the outer panel is hemmed and adhesively bonded to the inner panel. The surface features affix the panels together without induction or intermediate heat curing of the adhesive material. The outer panel has a hemmed edge enclosing the crimped surface feature, with the adhesive material positioned therebetween to form a seal of a relatively low shrinkage rate. A method of forming the closure panel assembly includes forming a first and second surface feature on the inner panel, such as by using swaging and coining, respectively, applying adhesive material therebetween, and hemming the panels to form a hem seam.
US08087716B2 Cap for pickup truck bed
A cap for the cargo bed of a pickup truck assembled on the truck including a base support frame comprised of a pair of parallel side by side slotted side guide rails and a hoop support frame pivotally mounted to each of the opposite ends of the side guide rails so as to able to be swung up to an erect position after the base support frame is installed on the pickup truck cargo bed side walls. An elongated slotted top guide rail is connected at either end to the top of each hoop support frame. Flexible side panels are inserted in respective slots on the side guide rails and top guide rail assuming a convex shape to cover the cargo bed. End panels close off either end of the cap, a rear panel may be hinged to the rear hoop support frame to be operable and may be transparent to provide a window. The hoop support frames and end panels may be adjustable in width to be matched to the cargo bed width. The cap can be collapsed into a tonneau cover by lowering the hoop support frames and the flexible side panels overly overlapping each other.
US08087705B2 Sealing bolt
A sealing bolt for sealing a container lid to a body with a threaded bore includes a shaft, a head connected to a first shaft end, and a threaded second shaft end engaged with the bore to lock the lid between the head and the body. The bolt includes a security element with a breakable integrity element. The security element comprises a first part arranged at the second shaft end, connected to the shaft with a breakable integrity element therebetween. The first part has a first thread cooperating with the bore, and a second part between the first part and second shaft end includes, a second thread cooperating therewith. An entrainment device disposed between first and second parts such that when the shaft and first part rotate in a tightening direction, second part is entrained. When the shaft and first part rotate in a loosening direction, second part remains stationary.
US08087702B2 Connector for a dialysis port
A connector for connecting a dialysate port of a dialyzer with a dialysate-carrying line and a dialyzer. The connector has a recess with a shift element on the end which accommodates the dialyzer port. The shift element is accommodated in the recess and is displaceable between a first position and a second position perpendicular to the direction of the lumen on the first end. The shift element does not pass through the lumen in the first position. In the second position, the lumen is constricted so that the connector with the shift element can be placed on the dialysate port and the connector locked on the dialysate port through engagement of the shift element behind an undercut on the port.
US08087699B2 Assembly for attaching a clamp to a hose
Disclosed is a cover bracket for holding a clamp having a screw housing in place on a hose without contaminating the screw housing with adhesive. The cover bracket includes a cover portion configured to receive a screw housing and a first runner and a second runner connected to one another by the cover portion. Each of the first and second runners includes a hose contacting surface and the first runner includes a channel in the hose contacting surface. The channel including an aperture extending through the first runner to an exterior of the first runner. Also disclosed is a method for attaching the cover bracket to the hose having the clamp thereon.
US08087697B2 Seat belt apparatus and seat belt control method
To allow an occupant to easily wear a seat belt without twisting his or her body when the occupant sits in a seat.When a door sensor 60 detects the opening of a door, a motor is driven to wind up a seat belt 2 so as to move a belt guide 4 against biasing force of a spring 9, thereby evacuating the seat belt 2 to a rear side of a vehicle relative to a seat back 1a. When the door sensor 60 detects the closing of the door and a seat sensor 61 detects the sitting of the occupant, the motor is driven in the reverse direction to make a clutch mechanism 34 in the disconnected state so as to protrude the seat belt 2 in the forward direction of the vehicle by the biasing force of the spring 9.
US08087693B2 Gas generator
A cylindrical housing is mounted with an igniter and a diffuser portion having a gas discharge port. A cylindrical member is disposed and fixed in the housing so as to form a cylindrical gap reaching the gas discharge port. An obstacle is provided in the gap, and a first gas passage hole, a second gas passage hole and a third gas passage hole are formed. A gas generating agent is ignited and burnt by activation of the igniter to generate gas, part of the generated gas flows into the gap through the first gas passage hole (f1), part of the gas that has passed therethrough flows again into the cylindrical member through the second gas passage hole (f2) to aid the combustion of the gas generating agent, and then the gas flows into the gap through the third gas passage hole (f3) and finally is discharged from the gas discharge port.
US08087684B2 Wheelchair advantage mobility system
A wheelchair propulsion and braking system (10) includes at least one clutch engagement disk rotatably couplable to a wheelchair frame (14). The clutch engagement disk (32) includes a gear (38) that is rotatable with the clutch engagement disk (32), and a drive chain (40) disposed around the gear (38). A drive wheel (50) is rotatably attachable to a wheel (22) of the wheelchair (12), and operatively attachable to the drive chain (40). The system also includes at least one lever arm (60) that is rotatably couplable to the wheelchair frame (14). The at least one lever arm (60) includes a handle (62) operatively coupled to an upper end (64) of the lever arm (60). The handle (62) is oriented in an accessible position during use. A pair of calipers (70) is operatively coupled to each lever arm (60), and engageable with the at least one clutch engagement disk (32). An actuator (80) is operatively coupled to the handle (62) to actuate the calipers (70), and to engage the clutch engagement disk (32).
US08087682B2 Suspension device for a wheel and method for supporting a wheel
A suspension device includes a first and a second link that link a vehicle-body side member and a wheel supporting member to each other. The two links are linked to each other through an elastic linking portion. The rigidity of an elastic bush thereof is less than the rigidity of an elastic member of a linking portion of at least one of the two links with the wheel supporting member and the vehicle-body side member.
US08087681B2 Reinforced skateboard deck
A reinforced skateboard deck adapted to connect to a set of trucks and wheels to form a skateboard for riding with the deck having a reinforced region constructed to resist rupturing of the deck and a protective side barrier constructed to prevent wear of the reinforced region during use.
US08087673B2 Sealing device
A sealing device comprises a stationary-side installation ring (11) fixed to an outer stationary-side member (201), a rotation-side installation ring (12) fixed to an inner rotation-side member (202), a stationary-side lip (13) provided on the stationary-side installation ring (11) to be slidably in contact with the rotation-side installation ring (12) by its tip, rotation-side lips (14, 15) formed on the rotation-side installation ring (12) to be slidably in contact with the stationary-side installation ring (11) by their tips, a pulsar ring (17) formed of a synthetic resin or rubber-like elastic material mixed with magnetic powder on the rotation-side installation ring (12) and multipolar magnetized, and a collar portion (17a) formed on an outer periphery of the pulsar ring (17) at the outer side than the rotation-side lips (14, 15) to closely face the stationary-side member (201) or the stationary-side installation ring (11), thereby an excellent sealing ability being given.
US08087671B2 Spatial puzzle apparatus
A spatial puzzle apparatus is disclosed herein. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of puzzle blocks 102 which has a general pyramid shape, and a void 124 which is configured to receive one of the plurality of puzzle blocks 102. A spherical housing 104 is used to house the plurality of puzzle blocks 102 and the void 124. The spherical housing 104 is configured to circumscribe the plurality of puzzle blocks 102 so that the plurality of puzzle blocks 102 and the void 124 define and retain the shape of a cube 106 as the plurality of puzzle blocks 102 are caused to rotate about a common axis to change positions via the void 124 to solve the puzzle. A virtual form of the spatial puzzle apparatus is also disclosed.
US08087667B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus according to the invention includes a conveying portion that conveys a sheet; and an abutment member against which an end of the sheet in a conveying direction abuts, the sheet being conveyed by the conveying portion. Herein, the abutment member is movable so as to change a distance between the abutment member and the conveying portion adjacent to the abutment member based on sheet information about the stiffness of a sheet, when an end of the sheet in the conveying direction is abutted against the abutment member.
US08087663B2 Sheet feeder and image recording apparatus
A sheet feeder, including: a holding portion for holding sheets; a sheet supply portion; an inclined member having an inclined surface for guiding each sheet in a sheet feed direction along the inclined surface; a first separation protrusion provided integrally on the inclined member so as to protrude from the inclined surface such that its distal end is located more downstream in the sheet feed direction than its proximal end; a plurality of second separation protrusions formed of a metal and disposed more upstream in the sheet feed direction than the first separation protrusion, each second separation protrusion protruding from the inclined surface through a corresponding one of openings formed in the inclined member, the second separation protrusions being arranged in the sheet feed direction; and a fixing member by which the second separation protrusions are fixed to the inclined member on a surface thereof opposite to the inclined surface.
US08087657B2 Sheet transport apparatus and image reading apparatus
A sheet transport apparatus includes a transport roller for transporting a sheet to the processing section, a driving motor for driving the transport roller, and a driving transmission mechanism. The driving transmission mechanism includes a rotary shaft, a transmission rotary member having a circular fit hole, a holder member with a press-fit hole having a curved part and a flat part, and a coupling mechanism for coupling the holder member and the transmission rotary member. The rotary shaft includes a fitting part having a circular cross section at one end side to be fitted into the circular fit hole, and a press-fit part having a curved part and a flat part press-fitted with the press-fit hole. The coupling mechanism includes a convex portion formed on a side of the transmission rotary member, and a concave portion formed on a side of the holder member press-fitted with the convex portion.
US08087655B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus with movable receiving member
A saddle stitching portion which can bind the center portion in the conveying direction of a sheet bundle by a stapler and fold it by a pair of folding rollers and a pushout member, includes an end stopper which receives the downstream end of a sheet conveyed by a first conveying roller in a first receiving position on the downstream of the first conveying roller by a length not buckling the sheet on the downstream of the stapler or the downstream end of the sheet conveyed by a second conveying roller in a second receiving position on the downstream of the second conveying roller by the length on the further downstream, wherein the receiving position of the downstream end stopper is selected according to the length in the conveying direction of the sheet.
US08087651B2 Coupling device
A coupling device having a first coupling part 3 provided with at least one projecting region, the regions of the first coupling part which project in the z direction being arranged eccentrically or centrally, and the projecting regions having conical outer surfaces formed with at least one angle relative to the z direction, the elastic regions 4 pointing in the direction of the center being formed in a radially parallel manner within the second coupling part 3. The the projecting regions of the first coupling part engage in the elastic regions 4 of the second coupling part 3 for the x-y orientation in the z direction. The second coupling part 3 is of one-piece design and can be produced in one operation.
US08087650B2 Clamping device
A clamping device is capable of engaging a clamping object with an inner wall of hole or side wall of the clamping object.The clamping device 1 is provided with a rod support for moving an engagement portion 25 of a clamping rod 3 in a direction roughly rectangular to the longitudinal direction of the clamping rod 3 and switchably rotatably supports the clamping rod 3 in a clamping main body across a clamping position and a clamp release position, a piston drive mechanism 6 for driving a piston 4 across the clamping position and the clamp release position, and a cam mechanism 7 for driving the engagement portion 25 in the clamping direction by the driving force of piston drive mechanism 6 for driving the piston 4 to the clamping position.
US08087649B2 Attachment device for a clamp and combination of a clamp and at least one attachment device
Attachment device for a clamp, said clamp having at least one clamp contact member for workpieces, said attachment device comprising a fixing member for fixing the attachment device in a releasable manner to the at least one clamp contact member, an attachment device contact member for contacting workpieces, which is held on the fixing member, and a pivot bearing via which the attachment device contact member is pivotable with regard to the fixing member.
US08087648B2 Hydraulic bushing
A hydraulic bushing including an elastomeric bellows having radially spaced axially extending arcuate chambers fluidly connected with axially spaced radially extending chambers to dampen axial as well as radial loads imposed upon the bushing.
US08087646B2 Hydropneumatic suspension with load-dependent damping control
A piston-cylinder unit for installing between a vehicle body and an axle includes a cylinder filled with damping medium, a piston dividing the cylinder into working spaces, and a piston rod. A first damping valve assembly in the piston damps movement of the piston in tension and in compression. A load dependent valve includes a valve body which can be moved axially by pressure in the damping medium, the valve body having axially opposed first and second actuation surfaces. The first actuation surface is exposed to pressure of a first accumulator, which is connected to one of the working spaces, and the second actuation surface is exposed to pressure of a second accumulator.
US08087644B2 Shaped packing element
The present invention provides a packing element comprising at least one sheet having a plurality of deformations, the sheet being operable to form a folded or helical configuration wherein adjacent portions of the at least one sheet are spaced to allow for flow of at least one of fluid, air and gas therebetween.
US08087635B2 Pneumatic pinch valve
A pneumatic pinch valve assembly having a lever, a piston supporting a pressing piece, and a fluid tube receiving space formed between the lever and the pressing piece for receiving fluid tubes is disclosed. Air is introduced into a cavity to actuate the piston in order to pinch a fluid tube between the lever and the pressing piece to intercept a fluid flow through the tube. A pinching action control feature is located between the piston and the pressing piece and is used to protect the fluid tube by limiting one or more amounts of compression of the fluid tube during operation. The amount of compression of the fluid tube is able to be adjusted so that the fluid tube is not easily deteriorated during long-time operation.
US08087633B2 Canvas carrier and holder
The present invention is a novel canvas carrier and holder formed of a single handle apparatus to which is anchored one or more flat J-Hooks and a method of using the canvas carrier holder.
US08087632B2 Laptop stand with heat dissipation device
A stand for a portable device includes two supporting members with two supporting surfaces for loading the portable device, and a heat dissipation device detachably attached between the two supporting members. The heat dissipation device comprises at least one fan and defines a plurality of holes.
US08087629B2 Stand apparatus
The present invention is a stand apparatus for a display screen (such as a computer monitor or a TV) having an arcuate arm member, a base adapted to accept the arm member and allow for tilting movement of the arm member in relation to the base, and a contoured clamp member operable to engage and grip the arm member. The curvature of the clamp member matches the curvature of the arm member and prevents damage to the finish of the arm member. The clamp member is coupled with an arm screw member that is readily accessible to a user. The cross-section of the arm member prevents lateral movement of the arm member in relation to the base. The base is operable to freely swivel 360 degrees and can be readily fixed in relation to a base ring once it is in a desired position. Cabling channels are also provided within the arm member to house cables from the display screen.
US08087625B2 Article holder with suction cup
A holder includes a suction cup comprising a circular plate formed of resilient material and a rigid bell wherein the plate includes a central coupling member including outer threads, and the bell includes a hollow cylinder including two opposite openings with the outer threads disposed thereat; a manipulation assembly comprising a tube including an internal threaded section threadedly secured to the outer threads, a sleeve securely put on the tube, and a coupling mechanism seated upon the sleeve; and a pivot assembly comprising a pivot mechanism pivotably secured to the coupling mechanism, an arm extended upward from the pivot mechanism, and a seat assembly rotatably, pivotably secured to the arm. Preferably, the holder is adapted to hold an article (e.g., mobile phone) when it is immovably and captively retained on a dashboard of a motor vehicle.
US08087623B2 Vertical display mounting device
The vertical display mounting device 100 comprises a vertical mounting attachment member 200 and at least one display mount 300 wherein the vertical mounting attachment member 200 may be the combination of a vehicle attachment member 400 and a vertical mounting member 500. The vertical display mounting device 100 may further include brackets 600 for attaching the vehicle attachment member 400 with the vehicle cab attachment points 14, 16 when the vehicle attachment member aperture 414, 416 and the vehicle cab 12 attachment points 14, 16 are not in alignment; an electrical mount 800; and a kit embodiment.
US08087620B2 Retaining device
A retaining device includes a fireproof core enclosed by a non-fireproof case, wherein a pre-tensioned fireproof device is integrated in the case and attached to the core. The fireproof device relaxes in such a way, when the case melts, that a construction element is reliably held between the carrier and the device.
US08087616B2 Method and system for aviation navigation
A system operates to guide an aircraft to or along a route designed to maintain the aircraft within a safe glide distance of an acceptable emergency landing area. The system uses a database of emergency landing areas with glide characteristics of an aircraft to determine a route that minimizes travel time or other specified parameter, while keeping the aircraft within a safe glide distance of a landing area in the database meeting the landing requirements for the aircraft.
US08087610B2 Aircraft shock strut having fixed upper bearing
An aircraft shock strut includes a cylinder and a piston movable within the cylinder. A lower bearing and an upper bearing provide sliding engagement between the cylinder and the piston. The upper bearing is fixed to the cylinder and provides sliding engagement with an outer surface the piston. An upper bearing that is fixed to the cylinder facilitates use of lighter weight materials for the cylinder without sacrificing durability.
US08087609B2 Dynamic human/wind powered flying suit
A completely dynamic human powered flying suit comprising of a pair of bat wings and an interconnecting flexible main sheet with the body of the pilot-operator lying on top of and in the center of the non-rigid section of the apparatus when in flight. Each wing has a front section or a wing paddle with supporting spar network and a similar but smaller rear section with the pilot-operator's arms and legs respectively operating the front and rear sections in a swimming motion in order to make lift and thrust. A rear air dam extends along the trailing underside edge of the central part of the apparatus to slow passing air. Large straps extend from wing tip to wing tip at radial intervals down the underside of the aircraft to prevent hyper-extension of the large wing paddle outer ends from bypassing behind the pilot-operator to ensure capturing lift and for the making of thrust. A body harness is provided with quick disconnect clips to hold the pilot-operator onto the suit. A pilot-operator manipulates the rigid and non-rigid sections in concert to radically change the shape of the body wing chord or angle of attack on the wind by bending at the waist and legs to maneuver from high lift shapes to lower lift shapes for takeoff, flight, stunts and landing. A pilot-operator can sweep the wings down and forward or down and backward in a delta shape to bypass wind to safely walk on the ground when wearing the suit into or away from the wind.
US08087602B1 Mortar and pestle
A mortar and pestle, the pestle having a dome-shaped top formed to be cupped within the palm of the hand, a body, and a bottom portion, the bottom portion formed to include a male apex. The interior of the mortar is formed to include an inverted frustum-shaped wall and an interior bowl extending from the interior inverted frustum-shaped wall. The bowl includes a female apex which cooperates with the male apex and into which the male apex may nest. The pestle has an external surface profile which is substantially similar to, and cooperates with, a mortar internal surface profile. Rotating the top of the pestle in a smooth, continuous motion about a circular locus processes material placed in the mortar as the pestle profile sweeps the mortar profile.
US08087598B2 Nozzle module for an injection valve
A nozzle module for an injection valve has a nozzle body with a recess with a wall, being operable to hydraulically couple the recess to a high pressure fluid circuit, a seal seat embodied on the wall, at least one nozzle needle arranged in an axially moveable fashion in the recess. The needle has a seat area with a sealing surface interacting with the seal seat to open and close the valve, respectively, and a supporting area, arranged radially outside and axially at a distance from the seat area and supporting the needle against the wall when the needle closes. The needle has at least one needle recess, which when the supporting area rests against the wall of the body recess, an area of the body recess facing axially away from the seat area is hydraulically coupled to an area of the body recess which axially faces the seat area.
US08087595B1 Combination rinse pitcher and shower spout
A combination rinse pitcher, particularly for rinsing shampoo from the head of a child during “bath time.” A main container body is made of relatively rigid material, and has a bottom and a plurality of main body sidewalls. A lip element is attached to the main container body and defines a rim of the rinse pitcher. The lip element is made of a relatively soft material which is sufficiently flexible such that at least a first portion of the rim can conform to the shape of the child's forehead. The first portion of the rim can be pressed against the child's forehead forming a seal to prevent poured water from flowing down the forehead of the child. A second one of the lip element sidewalls has apertures through which water can be poured to provide a shower-like flow.
US08087581B2 Banknote handling device
In addition to storing cassettes (16a) to (16f) that store banknotes that are dispensed when money is normally dispensed, a bait money storing portion (14) is provided that stores bait money serving as an emergency banknote to be dispensed in case of an emergency. When the bait money is requested to be dispensed in case of an emergency, the bait money is forcibly transported from the bait money storing portion (14) to a banknote outlet, with the result that the bait money is dispensed quickly.
US08087579B2 Systems and methods for verifying branding of pharmaceutical/medical containers
Systems and methods for verifying branding of pharmaceutical/medical containers are provided. In some embodiments, systems for verifying branding of at least one medication container associated with at least one of a prescription and medication order are provided. The systems including: a scanning system including at least one scanner for determining the branding of at least one of a first medication container and a cap used to cover the first medication container; a transport system that transports the first medication container; and a control system that: controls the transport system to transport the first medication container to the scanning system; and controls the scanning system to determine whether the branding of at least one of the first medication container and the cap correctly matches a predetermined branding among a plurality of brandings based on predetermined criteria.
US08087576B2 Data storage device and method for determining the dependency of the risk for prostate cancer, device and method for indicating a risk for a disease of an individual
A data storage device comprises a memory in which a collection of prostate cancer screening data is stored. The screening data is obtained from a selection of the general male population without medical pre-selection. A device for indicating a risk for a disease of an individual, comprises an indicator for indicating a determined value for said risk. The indicator comprises a risk scale representing a range of values of said risk, and at least one dialler for entering a value of a diagnostic parameter of an individual. The dialler comprises a parameter scale representing a range of values of said diagnostic parameter. The dialler is movable with respect to said indicator such that when a parameter value on said parameter scale is selected, an associated risk value is indicated on said risk scale according to a predetermined mathematical relationship.
US08087575B2 Printer with a touch panel
A printer has a base, a cover, a touch panel, a printing module and a detachable bracket. The base has two mounting rails. Each mounting rail has an engaging slot and an engaging protrusion. The cover is mounted detachably on the base. The touch panel is mounted on the base. The printing module is mounted detachably on the base and covered by the cover. The detachable bracket is mounted securely on the printing module and has a bottom plate and two opposite side plates. Each side plate has an engaging tab and an engaging notch detachably engaging the engaging slot and protrusion of a corresponding mounting rail. The printer with the mounting rails and detachable bracket allows the printing module to be repaired independently without disassembling the touch panel.
US08087573B2 Slide in locking newspaper box
A support for a newspaper box includes a support attaching to a post, a slide for sliding the newspaper box within the support, and a tab for locking the newspaper box within the support.
US08087572B2 Container blank for a storage container
The present invention is directed toward a blank of material configured to form a storage/display container. The blank includes fold lines at predetermined locations to provide panels selectively foldable into a predetermined configuration. Specifically, the blank forms a container having a pedestal, a tower, and a lid hinged to the tower. The container defines a cavity in which items are selectively stored and accessed. The container, moreover, may function as a component of an award given to an award recipient. In one embodiment, the container is stylized as a trophy housing items related to an accomplishment or an occasion reached by the recipient.
US08087571B2 Pouring package and pouring member formed from a wall extending over an opening
A pouring package for a fluid comprises a container (10) substantially impermeable to the fluid and having a pouring opening (11). The pouring opening is hermetically sealed by means of a breakable seal (30) in at least unopened state of the container. The container is provided with a pouring member (20) at the position of the pouring opening. Situated between a wall of the pouring member and the seal is a breaking member (21) which is awe and adapted to act on and break the seal when an external pressure is exerted on the wall.
US08087569B2 Polygonal tray having reinforced corners
A tray includes a bottom panel having first, second, third and fourth edge portions. The tray further includes at least one end wall that extends perpendicularly outward from one of the first, second, third and fourth edge portions of the bottom panel, and at least one side wall that extends perpendicularly outward from another of the first, second, third, and fourth edge portions of the bottom panel. The at least one side wall is perpendicular to the at least one end wall. At least one corner extends between the at least one side wall and the at least one end wall. The at least one corner includes an outer member and an inner member. The inner member is folded onto the outer member to reinforce the at least one corner.
US08087564B2 Apparatus for forming a metallic container
A method of forming a metallic container by placing body and lid portions together, keeping parts of the body and lid portions in contact with one another, and vibrating the lid with respect to the body, thereby generating frictional heat to form a friction metallic weld therebetween. Apparatus for attaching the lid and body portions of the metallic container includes a body supporting base, an assembly to support a flange of the body, a sonotrode to contact a flange of the lid so that wherein the flanges of the lid and body are held together between the support assembly and the sonotrode. A motor vibrates the sonotrode relative to the support assembly to thereby move the flanges relative to one another generating sufficient frictional heat to create a friction metallic weld therebetween.
US08087560B2 Accessory attachment system
An accessory system has one or more accessory elements which are removably attachable to a waist belt. A loop is fastened to the rear wall of each accessory element to define a passage between the rear wall and the loop which extends generally perpendicularly to the direction of the belt. A first part of a two-part fastener such as a snap is attached to an exterior surface of the loop. A strap is fastened to the accessory element rear wall spaced from the loop. A second part of the two-part fastener is configured to mate with the first part of the two-part fastener. The second part is fixed to the strap, so the strap is capable of passing through the loop, and around the loop to bring the first part and the second part of the fastener into engagement to retain the belt between the strap and the accessory rear wall.
US08087559B2 Wheelchair vehicle ramp
A loading apparatus for allowing wheelchair access to a vehicle is provided. The apparatus attaches to the hitch receiver of the vehicle, such as a van, truck or similar vehicle. The apparatus includes three ramp section pivotably connected such that the apparatus does not obstruct vision through the rear of the vehicle but also provides sufficient ground clearance for operation of the vehicle.
US08087557B2 Load carrier for fixed roof rail
A load carrier that includes a load carrier bar with a load carrier foot at each end of the load carrier bar. Each load carrier foot has a fixed clamping jaw and a movable clamping jaw configured to be arranged on an upper side and an opposite lower side of the respective roof rails and to cooperate with a clamping device that is configured to move the movable clamping jaw towards the fixed clamping jaw. The movable clamping jaw is pivotally connected at the load carrier foot and in a first mounting position. The movable clamping jaw is firmly connected to at least one guiding protrusion, located on a distance from the movable clamping jaw and in a first mounting position is arranged so that the distance between the guiding protrusions, which are located at each end of the load carrier, is larger than the distance between the roof rails.
US08087548B2 Spray products with particles and improved valve for inverted dispensing without clogging
A product is disclosed for inverted spray dispensing of material that comprises at least some particulate matter. The dispensing end of the container is connected to a valve, which includes a valve that moves from a biased closed position to an open position to discharge the product downward through the valve, when the dispensing end of the container is directed downward. An inlet end of the valve is spaced vertically above the dispensing end of the container when the dispensing end of the container is directed downward. The inlet end of the valve or spring cup is connected to a mesh filter having a pore size at least as large as an average diameter of the solid particles. Even when the container and a layer of settled particles forms at the dispensing end of the container, valve and mesh filter are designed so that at a portion of the proximal end of the mesh filter is disposed above the layer of settled particles to prevent clogging of the mesh filter.
US08087546B2 Dispenser for containing and dispensing a liquid or pourable solid product
A dispenser is provided for containing and dispensing a liquid or pourable solid product. The dispenser includes a shell having a bottom and a continuous side wall, which together define a hollow cavity. A lid assembly covers the rigid shell and includes a central opening. A flexible pouch is arranged for locating within the hollow cavity and for containing the product to be dispensed. The flexible pouch includes a pouring spout having an outlet opening. The pouring spout is arranged for extending through the lid assembly opening when the flexible pouch is situated within the hollow cavity. The lid assembly additionally includes a set of clamping members positioned to surround the pouring spout. The clamping members are responsive to actuation and arranged to move from a retracted position to a clamping position to prevent movement of the pouring spout when situated within the opening.
US08087544B2 System for mixing beverage components in a predetermined ratio
A system for mixing beverage components in a predetermined ratio is characterized by a housing having a mixing chamber therein, first and second inlets to the chamber and an outlet from the chamber. A first beverage component is flowed through the first inlet to the mixing chamber and a second beverage component is flowed through the second inlet to the chamber for mixing of the components in the chamber and exit of the mixture from the chamber through the chamber outlet. The pressure of the second beverage component in the second inlet is sensed upstream from the chamber and the flow of at least one of the first and second beverage components to the chamber is controlled in accordance with the sensed pressure to deliver to the mixing chamber a predetermined ratio of the first and second beverage components.
US08087543B2 Electric soap dispenser
An electric soap dispenser that includes sensors for detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. The dispenser can include various features for enhancing the performance thereof. For example, the dispenser can include an additional button for manual operation of the pump. Additionally, the dispenser can detect the voltage of a power supply and compensate for a drop in voltage of the power supply so as to produce more uniform dispensations of the liquid product.
US08087542B2 System for whipping a fluid slurry and method therefor
An apparatus, method and vending system mixes a dry mix with water to produce a whipped fluid slurry for a beverage. The mixing apparatus includes an inlet for receiving an unwhipped fluid slurry and an outlet for discharging the whipped fluid slurry. A whipping chamber is connected to the inlet for whipping the unwhipped fluid slurry and further includes an impeller that induces fluid turbulence to produce the whipped fluid slurry when the impeller rotates above one or more indentations in the surface of the whipping chamber.
US08087532B2 Waste container
A waste container includes a top chamber, a base chamber, upper and lower lids, and a drive mechanism mechanically coupling the lower lid with the upper lid. The upper lid is disposed on the top chamber and moves between a closed position covering a first opening and an open position exposing the first opening. The lower lid is disposed on the base chamber and moves between a closed position covering a second opening and an open position exposing the second opening. The drive mechanism is actuated so as to move the lower lid to the open position when the upper lid moves to the closed position from the open position. The lower lid returns to the closed position when the upper lid is in the closed position.
US08087531B1 Anti-splash/spill container lid
A container lid for dispensing a pourable substance is disclosed, the lid comprising a flexible closure tab having a snap, a lid opening closure, an opening actuator disposed on a planar cantilever section of the flexible closure tab between the snap and the lid opening closure; a lid base having a snap receptacle for releasably retaining the snap, a lid opening for receiving the lid opening closure, and an actuator guide cutout for enclosing the opening actuator.
US08087530B2 Container lid with integrally molded utensil
A container closure includes a utensil formed of a first polymer material, and a lid formed of a second polymer material, the utensil being detachably adhered to the lid by a chemical bond between the first and second polymer materials in the absence of any adhesive or bonding agent. A method for making the closure comprises the steps of introducing a quantity of a first polymer material into a mold to form a utensil, transferring the utensil from the first mold into a second mold or structurally modifying the first mold, and introducing a quantity of a second polymer material into the second mold or modified first mold to form a lid in such a manner that the utensil is detachably adhered to the lid by a chemical bond between the first and second polymer materials in the absence of any adhesive or bonding agent.
US08087527B2 Interconnecting container system for food or other product
A container system for containing a product. The container system includes a primary container containing a primary product and at least one secondary container containing a secondary product. The secondary container is releasably connected to the primary container.
US08087526B2 Knockdown storage vessel
A knockdown storage vessel has an internal bladder and external barrel sections. The ends of two barrel sections include a centrally-located bush that can be engaged by a handle so as to secure the barrel sections and allow for rolling transport of the vessel. The vessel barrel sections are dimensioned so as to nest within one another for compact storage.
US08087523B2 Closure assembly
A closure assembly (11) for a baby's bottle (10) comprising a regulator cap (16) which is adapted to be mounted to the bottle (10) and having one or more apertures (22), a teat collar (17) threaded to the bottle and moveable between an open and closed position and a teat (18) coupled to the teat collar (17) and having an outlet (45) for passage of fluid, the teat having (17) a base flange (38) adapted for cooperation with the regulator cap (16) such that in the open position of said teat collar (17) fluid can pass through the one or more apertures (22) and through the teat outlet (45) and air can pass between the base flange (38) and regulator cap (16) into the bottle (10) through one or more of the apertures (22). In the closed position, fluid is prevented from passage through the one or more apertures (22) into the teat (16) and air is prevented from passing between the base flange (38) and regulator cap (16) into the bottle (10).
US08087522B2 Quick secure shelving
A shelving system includes a product, a base, a tray insert, a template, and a placement clip. The base has a top surface forming a receptacle and includes a hanger assembly for releasably securing the base to a shelving unit positioned in a retail environment. The tray insert is releasably secured into the receptacle formed in the top surface of the base. The tray insert has a plurality of slots spaced along a length of the tray insert. The template is received over the tray insert to cover the tray insert. The template has a plurality of openings through the tray insert to selectively expose a desired subset of slots. The placement clip is releasably secured through one of the openings in the template into a pair of the desired subset of slots. The placement clip acts to releasably secure the template to the tray insert and is adapted to maintain the product.
US08087520B2 Locking automobile mat hanger and display device
A locking automobile mat hanger and display device consists of two hanger housings that cooperate with an interchangeable adapter insert to secure a plurality of automobile floor mats. The device includes housings having a retaining portion and an adapter insert, whereby the adapter insert and the retaining portion of the housing create channels in which automobile floor mats may be inserted and retained. The device also has a cutout section in the housings whereby a user may easily grasp and carry the entire mat hanger assembly. The device further contains a hook section disposed on the housings, which allows for the entire mat hanger assembly to be hung from retail displays, and also allows for efficient storage. The label application section of the hanger aids inventory organization.
US08087513B2 Music instrument case with interchangeable lids
A flexible music instrument case uses an interchangeable lid system to allow different types of lids to be attached to a main body depending on the particular needs of the user. The main body of the music case has an internal chamber configured to closely contain and protect the musical instrument or instruments, depending on the particular instruments being carried. The main body is somewhat structured to maintain a container shape, and may include various levels of rigidity. In addition, the main body further has at least one attachment mechanism attached to a portion thereof, to allow an interchangeable lid to be removably attached to the main body. The interchangeable lid has a similar attachment mechanism attached thereto to allow for the removable attachment of various lid elements. The interchangeable lids are configured differently to allow a user to configure the carrying case as necessary, and may include accessory compartments, sheet music pockets, or extended accommodations to allow portions of the musical instruments to extend beyond the open top while also being contained. Additional handles, wheels and straps are also included to increase the ease of use for the musical instrument case.
US08087508B2 Torsional vibration damper hub for a vehicle clutch
A torsional vibration damper hub for a vehicle clutch includes a first row of springs extending substantially in the clutch rotating direction and disposed in openings formed in a first inner annular plate and a first pair of outer annular plates; a second row of springs extending substantially in the clutch rotating direction and is disposed in openings formed in the second inner annular plate and the second pair of outer annular plates; the first and second row of the springs being arranged on a same radius from a center of rotation of the clutch; the springs in the first row of springs arranged in one first axial level are axially overlapping the springs in the second row of springs arranged in a second axial level with the purpose to decrease a total axial length of the clutch. In an alternative embodiment the damper hub is substantially identical to a dual damper hub in conventional twin-plate clutches.
US08087507B2 Release bearing assembly
A release bearing assembly has a roller bearing, an enclosure and a slinger. The enclosure has first and second flange portions. The slinger has a body portion sized for radial disposition within an inner diameter of the first flange portion. A lip portion extends from the body portion and defines a channel between itself and the enclosure.
US08087506B2 Multiple-disk brake in an automatic transmission having controllable cooling oil supply and method for operating the same
The invention concerns a multi-disk brake (1) in an automatic transmission, with an inner disk carrier (4) and an outer disk carrier (6), with inner disks (3) and outer disks (5) arranged axially in alternation on the disk carriers (4, 6), with friction linings (7) on the inner and/or outer disks (3, 5), with a piston (10) of a pressure-medium-actuated piston-cylinder arrangement such that the inner disks (3) and outer disks (5) can be acted upon by a force to close the multi-disk brake, with an end disk (9) or support disk (11) that forms an axial abutment for the disk set (14) formed by the disks (3, 5, 9, 11), and in which the disk brake (1) and/or the components around it are so configured that the disks (3, 5, 9, 11) can be wetted by a cooling oil. To cool the disk multi-brake (1) even in slip operation phases and in the engaged condition, it is provided that depending on the operating condition of the brake, the cooling oil (13) can be passed over and/or through the disk set (14) in radially different directions. The invention also concerns a method for operating such a disk brake.
US08087504B2 Friction clutch and vehicle equipped with the same
A friction clutch includes clutch housing having a friction plate, a clutch boss having a clutch plate, a pressure plate, a sub clutch, and a power-assist mechanism. The power-assist mechanism receives torque from the pressure plate when the clutch is disengaged and converts the torque into a force for moving the pressure plate in a direction which separates the pressure plate from a plate group. A cam surface, which supports and guides one or more roller weights, is formed on the pressure plate. The one or more roller weights move outward in a radial direction by a movement amount according to the magnitude of centrifugal force and press the pressure plate toward the plate group with force according to the movement amount.
US08087503B2 Driving mechanism and wheel assembly for toy car
A driving mechanism for driving a wheel of a toy car includes a motor, a first clutch, a second clutch, a guide shaft, a spring, and a limiting element. The first clutch driven by the motor has an engaging end surface defining a center hole thereon. The second clutch capable of latching with the wheel for driving the wheel has an engaging surface engaging with the engaging end surface. The second clutch defines a stepped hole substantially perpendicular to the engaging surface thereof, the stepped hole includes a first portion and a second portion. The guide shaft is disposed running through the stepped hole and has an end thereof fixed in the center hole. The spring sleeves the guide shaft and is compressed between the limiting element secured on the guide shaft and a stepped surface in the stepped hole.
US08087502B2 Actuator for shifting a selectable one-way clutch
An actuator shifts a selectable one-way clutch (SOWC) between a plurality of operating modes. A first spring has a preload compression that is equivalent to a first start pressure. A second spring, disposed adjacent to the first spring, has a preload compression that is equivalent to a second start pressure. A plunger movably contacts the first spring and a slide plate movably extends from the plunger. The slide plate engages the SOWC such that the SOWC shifts between the operating modes in response to movement of the slide plate. The first spring is compressible from beyond the preload compression to a first stop position as the pressure is increased from the first start pressure to a first stop pressure. The second spring is compressible from beyond the respective preload compression to a second stop position as the pressure is increased from the second start pressure to a second stop pressure.
US08087499B1 Vibration wave controlled variable stiffness structures and method of making same
In some embodiments, a variable stiffness structure is provided having a plurality of constant stiffness members. The plurality of constant stiffness members are movably adhered together through a friction force generated by a normal force. Vibration generators are operatively coupled to the plurality of constant stiffness members. The vibration generators can vibrate at a plurality of frequencies. The friction is responsive to the plurality of frequencies whereby providing a change in stiffness of the variable stiffness structure. The variable stiffness structure may have different shapes, for example, beam, rod, plate, or cylindrical. The vibration generators may be ultrasonic resonators in some embodiments.
US08087498B2 High power/weight ratio braking device based on shape memory material technology
The braking device is provided a set of shape memory alloy activators positioned, in an agonistic-antagonistic configuration on each side of a brake lever. Braking and releasing phases are dictated by the austenitic transformation of the shape memory alloy activators. During brake activation, shrinking of the braking activator brings the friction pad in contact with a rotating drum creating a braking friction torque. Once the brake has been activated, deformation of a flexible fiberglass component prevents brake releasing by applying sufficient normal force between the drum and the friction pad. Conversely, upon heating of the releasing activator, the pad looses its grip and the drum is free to rotate.
US08087497B2 Compensation in an elevator system having multiple cars within a single hoistway
An elevator system (20) includes multiple elevator cars (22, 32) within a hoistway (28). A first compensation member (40) is associated with a first counterweight (24). A second compensation member (50) is associated with a second one of the elevator cars (32). Each compensation member has one end that moves with the associated elevator system component and an opposite end (44, 54) secured in a fixed position within the hoistway. In one example, a compensation member has a linear density that is approximately four times a linear density of a corresponding load bearing member.
US08087492B2 Methods and systems for integrating sound attenuation into a filter bank
A filter bank is provided. The filter bank includes a housing having a front face and a back face. Air flows along an air flow path from the front face to the back face. A filter layer is held in the housing. The filter layer is oriented between the front and back faces such that air flows through the filter layer before discharging from the back face. An attenuation layer is positioned within the housing to attenuate sound as the sound propagates between the front and back faces. The attenuation layer is oriented to extend along the air flow direction.
US08087489B2 Articulated construction vehicle including a lever-operated electrical Control device
An articulated construction vehicle is provided with an articulated, self-propelled body, body-articulating hydraulic cylinders for articulating the self-propelled body, a pilot-operated directional control valve for controlling a flow of pressure oil to the body-articulating hydraulic cylinders, and a steering-wheel-operated control device for outputting a pilot signal to corresponding one of signal-receiving ports of a directional control valve by rotational operation of a steering wheel. The articulated construction vehicle includes a lever-operated, electrical control device for outputting an electrical signal by tilt operation of a lever, a controller for receiving the electrical signal from the control device to output an electrical signal concerning the operation of the lever, a signal converter for converting the electrical signal into a pilot signal and outputting the pilot signal to a corresponding signal-receiving port of the directional control valve to switch the control valve, and a selector of an operation system.
US08087481B2 Dual lever steering controls with control stops
Dual lever steering controls with control stops are provided for a zero turning radius mower. Each control arm is mounted to a neutral position lever that is pivotable between a full forward drive position and a full reverse drive position. Each control stop is mounted to block the control arm and neutral position lever from pivoting to a position under a minimum forward speed. Each control stop may be biased to the minimum forward speed position, and also may be pivotable between an operating position and a non-operating position.
US08087479B2 Drill bit with an adjustable steering device
A drill bit is provided that includes a force application device on a body of the drill bit. The force application device includes a force application member pivotally coupled to the drill bit and configured to extend from the drill bit body to apply force on a wellbore wall when the drill bit is used to drill a wellbore, and an actuator configured to actuate the force application member to apply force on a wellbore wall during drilling of the wellbore.
US08087477B2 Methods and apparatuses for measuring drill bit conditions
Drill bits and methods of measuring drill bit conditions are disclosed. A drill bit for drilling a subterranean formation comprises a bit bearing at least one cutting element and adapted for coupling to a drill string. The drill bit may also comprise a chamber formed within the bit and configured for maintaining a pressure substantially near a surface atmospheric pressure while drilling the subterranean formation. In addition, the drill bit may comprise at least one optical sensor disposed in the chamber and configured for sensing at least one physical parameter exhibited by the drill bit while drilling a subterranean formation.
US08087476B2 System and method for damping vibration in a drill string using a magnetorheological damper
A system for damping vibration in a drill string can include a magnetorheological fluid valve assembly having a supply of a magnetorheological fluid, a first member, and a second member capable of moving in relation to first member in response to vibration of the drill bit. The first and second members define a first and a second chamber for holding the fluid. Fluid can flow between the first and second chambers in response to the movement of the second member in relation to the first member. The valve assembly can also include a coil for inducing a magnetic field that alters the resistance of the magnetorheological fluid to flow between the first and second chambers, thereby increasing the damping provided by the valve. A remnant magnetic field is induced in one or more components of the magnetorheological fluid valve during operation that can be used to provide the magnetic field for operating the valve so as to eliminate the need to energize the coils during operation except temporarily when changing the amount of damping required, thereby eliminating the need for a turbine alternator power the magnetorheological fluid valve. A demagnetization cycle can be used to reduce the remnant magnetic field when necessary.
US08087471B2 Agricultural implement with improved tillage point
An agricultural implement includes a framework configured to be towed behind a vehicle, and a plurality of shanks mounted to the framework and configured to engage the soil. A tillage point is mounted on each shank. Each shank tillage point includes a body having a top surface and a nose extending from the top surface. The tillage point also includes two wings each disposed on a lateral side of the body and extending laterally outward. In certain embodiments, a slope of the nose relative to a horizontal plane of movement of the tillage point through soil is greater than a slope of the top surface of the body. In further embodiments, the wings are configured to engage the soil at a shallower depth than the nose, and/or a tip of each wing is configured to engage the soil at a greater depth than a respective wing root. In yet further embodiments, the tillage point includes a boss positioned forward of openings configured to receive a fastener for coupling the tillage point to a shank.
US08087466B2 Centralization and running tool and method
The invention relates to a centralization and running tool (CTR) in a subsea installation in connection with offshore related oil and gas exploration, where the subsea installation (SCM) is arranged to be placed on the ocean bottom or a drilling template and comprises a pipe-formed body (10), at least partially open at the top and extended, arranged to receive and carry through a drill stem (12) from a drilling rig or a drilling vessel. The centralization and running tool (20) is arranged to surround the drill stem (12) and to be placed in the pipe-formed body (10), and the centralization and running tool (20) comprises, together with the drill stem (12), a rotary packing housing (22) with a number of seals (24,26) that lie against the drill stem (12), and the packing housing (22), in accordance with the movements of the drill stem (12), is arranged for radial movement to take up angular deviations of the drill stem (12). The invention also relates to a method to provide a fluid-tight seal against a drill stem (12) and against the surroundings in a subsea installation.
US08087463B2 Multi-position hydraulic actuator
A method of actuating a well tool utilizing first and second pressure sources includes the steps of: placing an actuator chamber in communication with the first pressure source, thereby displacing a piston from a first position to a second position; and then placing another chamber in communication with the second pressure source, thereby displacing the piston to a third position. A multi-position actuator includes an operating member which displaces to operate a well tool, a first position of the operating member corresponding to a pressure source being in communication with a chamber and another pressure source being in communication with another chamber, a second position of the operating member corresponding to the same pressure source being in communication with both of the chambers, and a third position of the operating member corresponding to the pressure sources being connected to the chambers oppositely to that of the first position.
US08087461B2 Logging while producing apparatus and method
Production logging apparatus and method are provided. The apparatus comprises a coupling module, an electronic module, a micro-winch, a docking station, and a micro-production logging tool. The coupling module provides mechanical support for the production logging apparatus below a pumping arrangement disposed in a wellbore, and allows flow to enter the pumping arrangement. The electronic module comprises a winch controller, a powering module and a telemetry module, and adapted to automate the micro-winch. The docking station comprises a latching mechanism for ensuring positive engagement of a micro-production logging tool with the production logging apparatus during docking. And the micro-production logging tool comprises at least one sensor and is coupled to the micro-winch by a cable for regular production logging runs to measure the evolution of well characteristics.
US08087460B2 Granular electrical connections for in situ formation heating
A method for heating a subsurface formation using electrical resistance heating is provided. In one aspect, the method includes creating a passage in the subsurface formation between a first wellbore located at least partially within the subsurface formation, and a second wellbore also located at least partially within the subsurface formation. An electrically conductive granular material is placed into the passage so as to provide electrical communication between the first wellbore and the second wellbore. Electrically conductive members are provided in the first wellbore and second wellbore so as to form an electrically conductive flow path comprised of the electrically conductive members, the granular material, and a power source. An electrical current is established through the electrically conductive flow path, thereby resistively heating at least a portion of the conductive members which in turn heats the subsurface formation.
US08087457B2 Method for a short-term well operation by means of an electrically-powered submersible pumping unit (Kuzmichev method)
A method of short-term well operation using a submersible impeller pump unit is disclosed, the method includes the steps of alternating pumping a liquid out of a well and accumulating a liquid in the well, and adjusting an average integral-in-time capacity of the unit by changing a proportion between time intervals of pumping the liquid out and accumulating the liquid. The method further includes adjusting a pressure produced by the unit during the time interval of pumping the liquid out of the well, selecting a time interval of a complete operational cycle of the unit to have a production rate reduction factor greater than 0.95 as compared to continuous well operation, and selecting a factor of cyclic time interval of unit-turning-on equal to a ratio of the time intervals of pumping the liquid out and the complete operational cycle of the unit such that the factor is less than 50%.
US08087453B2 Programmable controlled heat dissipating fan
A programmable controlled heat dissipating fan is comprised of a base, a stator assembly, a magnet frame assembly, a fan blade assembly, an inductor set, a first circuit board and a second circuit board. The stator assembly is firmly installed in the base, while the magnet assembly is sleeved into the periphery of the stator assembly. The fan blade assembly is rotated through the alternatively changing magnetic field produced by the stator winding and magnet frame, while the second circuit board is rotated and powered by electromagnetic coupling. The data content stored in the data repository is loaded by the microprocessor to drive the light emitting unit to display.
US08087452B2 Contact cooling device
A high performance cold plate cooling device including multiple, relatively thin plates, each having patterns formed thereon that, as arranged within the device, cause turbulence in a fluid passing within the cooling device. Adjacent plates within the cooling device are arranged such that fluid channels within their patterns are arranged crosswise. One or more barriers extending at least a portion of the length of the device separate the crosswise channels into two or more flow sections and increase uniformity of thermal performance over the active plate area. Manufacturing of the device includes stacking the plates in an alternating fashion such that the channels within the pattern of each plate are crosswise with respect to the channels in the pattern of an adjacent plate and adjacent barrier walls abut.
US08087447B2 Method for checking wall thickness of hollow core airfoil
A molding technique is utilized to form the cooling channels in an airfoil for a gas turbine engine. The cooling channels are formed by lost core mold cores, which are leached away after metal has been molded around them. At least one of the mold cores is provided with a cone which will extend into the airfoil. The cone forms an opening in a wall of the airfoil, and the size of this opening is indicative of the thickness of the wall. By comparing the size to expected sizes, a determination can be made of whether the wall is of an acceptable thickness at locations where it is difficult to otherwise measure the wall.
US08087446B2 Method and apparatus for production of a cast component
A system for producing cast components from molten metal. One form of the present invention includes a system for the precision pouring of molten metal within a casting mold. The precision pouring system is driven by a pressure differential.
US08087436B2 Modular connector
A modular connector system that permits changes to the connector, for example changes in the type of connection interface that is used and/or changes in the type of actuator that is used to actuate the connector. By making parts of the connector changeable, the connector can be changed so as to be able to connect to different fluid systems. This eliminates the need to have separate connectors for different fluid systems.
US08087430B1 Leak detecting hose
A leak detecting hose for transporting fluid. The hose has an inner and outer layer. The outer layer circumscribes the inner layer. A transition layer is located between the inner and outer layer, and the transition layer provides a flow path for the fluid in the hose when the inner layer is breached. A first conductive wire is placed in contact with the transition layer, and a second conductive wire is placed in contact with the transition layer. The conductive wires are adjacent to and spaced from each other. When the inner layer of the hose is breached, the first and second wires will contact the fluid in the flow path. The conductive wires are radially equidistant from the center of the hose and helically wound around the inner layer. The transition layer may include reinforcement material, which can have filaments that provide a flow path for the fluid.
US08087429B2 System and method for a pump with reduced form factor
Embodiments of the present invention provide pumps with features to reduce form factor and increase reliability and serviceability. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention provide features for gentle fluid handling characteristics. Embodiments of the present invention can include a pump having a motor driven feed stage pump and a motor driven dispense stage pump. The feed stage motor and the feed stage motor can include various types of motors and the pumps can be rolling diaphragm or other pumps. According to one embodiment, a dispense block defining the pump chambers and various flow passages can be formed out of a single piece of material.
US08087425B2 Hose and tubing assemblies and mounting systems and methods
A hose assembly includes a length of hose and a bracket. The bracket includes a rigid insert and a resilient overmold encapsulating at least a portion of the insert and mechanically bonding with at least a portion of an exterior of the hose. A method to produce this assembly may employ thermoplastic injection molding and include the steps of associating the rigid insert with the length of hose and overmolding the rigid insert and a section of the length of hose associated with the rigid insert with the resilient material, thereby encapsulating a portion of the insert and mechanically bonding the resilient material with the section of the length of the hose. A portion of the rigid insert may extend from the bracket and provide amounting holes and a bearing surface for mounting fasteners.
US08087418B2 Deaeration device and ultrasonic cleaning device using the same
A deaeration device for bubbling dissolved air in the cleaning liquid by cavitation is connected on a cleaning-liquid circulation path so as to bubble the dissolved air in the cleaning liquid flowing through the cleaning-liquid circulation path, and the bubbled dissolved air flows back to the cleaning tank together with the cleaning liquid so that the bubbled dissolved air is ejected from the liquid surface of the cleaning tank to the outside of the tank. Moreover, a propeller-type pump is used as the circulating pump, and the dissolved air concentration of the cleaning liquid is controlled within a range of 2.5 to 3.5 mg/l.
US08087417B2 Cosmetic applicator
The applicator for cosmetics has one or more plies with scoring to form a handle area and a sample area. The scoring upon the top ply guides the applicator to bend into a handle area grasped by a woman's fingers and the sample area has a slight bow to apply eye shadow or other powdered cosmetic as the woman sees fit. The sample area has embossing in the bottom ply to retain pre-deposited cosmetics for further sampling.
US08087414B2 Machine for styling hair in the form of long locks of hair entwined in dreadlocks
Machine for styling hair in the form of long locks of hair entwined in dreadlocks includes a container body accommodating an electric or pneumatic motor. There is a handle which, in its lower front part, forms a nose through which an interchangeable harpoon needle projects, the needle being provided with at least one traction harpoon and being installed in a particular rotary position with the aid of removable device. The container body has a switch above and behind the nose. The electric or pneumatic motor has a regulator for the speed and has a shaft, which extends parallel to the interchangeable harpoon needle, rotationally coupled to it.
US08087407B2 Conveyor oven apparatus and method
An oven according to some embodiments includes an oven chamber in which food is cooked, a heating element, a fan, a sensor for sensing the temperature of the oven chamber, a remote input device, and a controller configured to receive a signal from the remote input device and to change the fan or heating element based at least in part upon the signal received from the remote input device. In a method of operating the oven according to some embodiments, the oven enters an operating mode from an energy-savings mode responsive to receiving an signal from a remote device.
US08087405B2 Bow-type soft projectile launcher
A projectile launcher for launching soft projectiles. The projectile launcher features a pump assembly having a cylinder and piston. The piston includes a pump grip so that a pressure charge is generated when the user moves the piston. The pressure charge is released into a chamber which contains a soft projectile. The chamber includes a radius bend joining a projectile receiving orifice to a projectile discharging orifice. The pressure charge is introduced proximate the apex of the radius bend.
US08087394B2 Dual-level combustion chamber system, for fastener driving tool, having dual-level rotary valve mechanism incorporated therein
A combustion chamber system, for use in connection with internal combustion powered fastener-driving tools, comprises a dual-level combustion chamber comprising first and second pre-combustion and main combustion chambers, and a dual-level rotary valve mechanism which is operatively connected to the dual-level combustion chamber so as to control the intake of the air/fuel mixture as well as the scavenging or purging of the exhaust gases or combustion products. The first and second pre-combustion and main combustion chambers are also separated by a plate having a plurality of apertures defined therein whereby multiple jets or flame fronts are defined throughout the combustion chamber system.
US08087393B2 Zero float valve for internal combustion engine and method of operation thereof
A valve apparatus for an internal combustion engine, the valve apparatus including: a main part having a wall section defining a valve cavity extending along a longitudinal length of the main part and an opening located in the wall section of the main part, the opening flow connected to the combustion chamber; an outer part configured and arranged so as to be reciprocally located in the valve cavity, the outer part having a wall section defining an inner passage extending along a longitudinal axis thereof; an inner part having a first end situated outside of the cavity and a second end situated within the cavity and the inner passage of the outer part, the inner part having a wall section defining an inner passage, a first opening at the first end, and one or more openings in that part of the walled section which is situated within the cavity.
US08087392B2 Variable valve actuation system
A variable valve actuation system to actuate and control the seating velocity of an internal combustion engine valve is disclosed. The system may comprise a rocker arm that includes first, second and third contact surfaces. The first contact surface may contact the engine valve. A hydraulic lost motion system may contact the rocker arm at the second contact surface, and a mechanical valve train element may contact the rocker arm at the third contact surface. The lost motion system may include a slave piston with a valve seating device incorporated therein. The lost motion system and the mechanical valve train element may be provided side by side at the end of the rocker arm opposite that of the engine valve.
US08087391B2 Apparatus and methodology for rocker arm assembly
One possible embodiment of the invention is essentially an apparatus and methodology for mounting a rocker arm assembly to a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine comprising of at least a unitary stanchion to which multiple rocker arms may be moveably connected. In least one embodiment, the unitary stanchion may comprise a base from which project multiple rows of pedestals. Two of more of these rows may be set in essentially parallel orientation, which further defines a primary space in which a portion of the rocker arm is located. The unitary stanchion may be secured to the cylinder head thorough multiple rows of fasteners. The footprint of the base of unitary stanchion could allow the unitary stanchion to possibly act as generally efficient external buttress for generally providing greater support across the top of the cylinder head.
US08087387B2 Special rawhide holding device for pets
A unique pet device that is used to hold “chewable” objects for pets such as rawhide bones, carrots and other consumables. The device for pets may be used with dogs, cats, ferrets and other animals that have a proclivity to chew. The device is comprised of a unique combination of a base support with special features, a bone or object holding structure with special integral or discrete components and features, and an optional hold down lid or top to assist the containment of the rawhide or chew toy that is being held by the device. The device is made of high quality, durable material that is pet safe and non-toxic to animals and humans.
US08087385B2 Pet carrier access portal
An access portal for a pet carrier allows a pet owner to insert a hand into the pet carrier but prevents the animal contained therein from escaping through the access portal. The access portal may be blocked by an elastic barrier with an aperture that stretches to allow the pet owner to gain access to the interior of the pet carrier. Doors covering the access portal on the inside and/or the outside of the carrier may also be used instead of, or in conjunction with the elastic barrier.
US08087382B2 Method and arrangement for animal management
A method is provided for managing animals (10) in a milking system which comprises a milking stall (11) provided with a milking apparatus (13) for milking the animals, a gate arrangement (18a-b; 18a-b, 32; 55a-b) allowing the animals to enter said milking stall, one at a time, from at least two different locations, and a control device (15) which holds and updates a milking suitability index for each of the animals. According to the method a first animal is identified and received at a first location, and a milking suitability index for the first animal is retrieved. A second animal is identified and received at a second location, and a milking suitability index for the second animal is retrieved. The milking suitability indexes for the first and second animals are compared and an animal at either one of said first and second locations is allowed to enter the milking stall depending on the outcome of the comparison.
US08087380B2 Evaporative system for solar cell fabrication
A plurality of chamber are arranged about a transport chamber. The linear transport chamber may include a linear track supporting robot arms. The robot arms transport substrates to and from the chambers. Each chamber includes a plurality of evaporators, each controlled independently. Each substrate positioned in the chamber is coated from a plurality of the evaporators, such that by controlling the operation of each evaporator independently the formation of the layers and the concentration gradient of each layer can be precisely controlled.
US08087379B2 Localized plasma processing
A method of localized plasma processing improves processing speed and reduces work piece damage compared to charged particle beam deposition and etching. In one embodiment, a plasma jet exits a plasma generating chamber and activates a reactive gas. A jet of plasma and reactive gas impacts and processes the work piece. Because the plasma and the ions in the reactive gas can have low kinetic energy, there can be little or no surface damage. This is particularly useful for deposition processes. When it is desired to etch material, the reactive ions can be more energetic to enhance etching.
US08087376B2 Coating apparatus
The present invention has as an object to provide a coating apparatus for forming a coating film on each of many lenses in a short time. To attain this object, in the coating apparatus for a lens according to the invention, a lens support portion of a lens centering device, a lens support portion of a lens spinning device, and a lens support portion of a lens drying device are arranged at equal distances. A pair of lens holding portions of a lens transport device are provided at the same distance as the distance between the lens support portions. The first lens holding portion of the lens holding portions transports the lens from the lens support portion of the centering device to the lens support portion of the applicator device, and the second lens holding portion of the lens holding portions simultaneously transports the lens from the lens support portion of the applicator device to the lens support portion of the drying device.
US08087366B2 Needle threader for sewing machine
A needle threader for a sewing machine includes a threading mechanism including a threading hook mounted on a lower end of a threading shaft and a thread guide member. The threading hook and the thread guide member are movable among a thread guide preparation position where the threading hook and the thread guide member are located near a height position of a needle clamp, a threading operation position where a threading operation is carried out with the threading hook being level with an eye of a needle, and a retreat position which is located above the thread guide preparation position and to which the threading hook and the thread guide member are retreated. A vertical moving mechanism moves the threading shaft vertically so that the threading mechanism is moved among the thread guide preparation position, the threading operation position and the retreat position.
US08087364B2 Assembly of pallet component and fasteners
An assembly of a pallet component and fasteners makes a pallet on which various kinds of objects can be placed and which is movable by a forklift. The pallet component includes two outer unit members and an intermediate connector. Each outer unit member has an inner side formed with spaced projections and concavely provided with spaced receiving recesses adjacent thereto. The spaced projections of each outer unit member correspond in position to and are therefore receivable in the spaced receiving recesses of the other outer unit member. The intermediate connector is bilaterally provided with connecting sections that have different orientations. The working end of each connecting section has spaced projections and spaced receiving recesses adjacent thereto so as to connect with the corresponding outer unit member. Thus, a pallet can be easily made according to the widths of objects to be placed on the pallet.
US08087363B2 Rail car collision system
A rail car collision system is disclosed that includes a front face and an underframe having a first anticlimber. The first anticlimber protrudes from and extends across at least a portion of the front face at a first position. At least one second anticlimber extends along at least a portion of the front face at a second position that is vertically different than the first position.
US08087357B2 Process for creating a unit dose product with a printed water soluble material
A process for selectively and repeatedly printing at least two graphics onto a water soluble material to create a randomized print for unit dose products.
US08087356B2 Handling device of a printing press
A handling device of a printing press, in particular for handling printing plates during an automated change of printing plates on a printing unit of a printing press, is disclosed. The handling device has a manipulator arm, where a manipulator head is allocated to one end of the manipulator arm, which head features a handling element, in particular a holding element for printing plates. The manipulator arm is of a multi-piece design of several segments, where a swivel axis is included on each end of each segment, around which axis at least the respective segment can be swiveled, and where a separate drive for providing the respective swivel motion is allocated to each swivel axis.
US08087355B2 Method of treating on-press developable lithographic printing plate
A method of treating an on-press developable lithographic printing plate with a treating solution after imagewise exposure and before on-press development is described. The plate comprises on a substrate a photosensitive layer developable with ink and/or fountain solution and capable of hardening upon exposure to a radiation. The plate is imagewise exposed with a radiation, overall treated with a treating solution to cause at least one chemical or physical change in the photosensitive layer or on the substrate surface, and then on-press developed with ink and/or fountain solution. Such a treatment allows improvement on the performance of the imagewise exposed plate by, for example, improving the white light stability, forming visible imaging, increasing the hydrophilicity of the substrate, or increasing the developability of the photosensitive layer.
US08087354B2 Method of forming visible image for on-press developable lithographic printing plate
A method of forming visible image on an on-press developable lithographic printing plate is described. The plate comprises on a substrate a photosensitive layer developable with ink and/or fountain solution and capable of hardening upon exposure to a radiation. The plate is imagewise exposed with a radiation, overall treated with a discoloring agent to form visible image or enhanced visible image, and then on-press developed with ink and/or fountain solution. The formation of visible image allows easy identification or inspection of the plate by the pressman before mounting on press.
US08087351B2 Passive thermal insert for temperature-controlled trays and food service counters
Temperature control is provided to food dispensing vessels like condiment dispensers that are too tall to be stored in a shallow, temperature-controlled tray or basin by using inclined or tilted, thermally-conductive tubes placed inside a temperature-controlled tray. Thermal insulating covers improve the thermal efficiency of the tubes.
US08087349B2 Rotary screw blancher
A food processing apparatus includes a tank defining an inner compartment having an inlet end for receiving food product and an outlet end for discharging food product, an open-top screen mounted within the compartment and positioned relative to the tank in a first position, and a rotatable auger mounted such that at least a portion of the auger is within the screen for advancing food product within the tank from the inlet end of the tank toward the outlet end.
US08087347B2 Insert, a machine and a system for the preparation of beverages
An insert for use in a beverage preparation machine of a type comprising a brew head suitable for receiving a rigid or semi-rigid cartridge. The brew head comprises an upwardly directed inlet for supplying water to the brew head, a downwardly directed outlet for outflow of beverage produced by the machine, and a closure mechanism moveable between open and closed configurations. The insert comprises a receptacle and sealing means, the receptacle having an opening through which, in use, a quantity of beverage ingredients may be loaded into the receptacle, a lower portion of the insert comprising an inlet and an outlet. In use, on insertion of the insert into the brew head of the beverage preparation machine and movement of the closure mechanism into the closed position the sealing means is contactable with, and sealable against, the brew head to thereby close the opening of the receptacle to define a I brewing volume containing the quantity of beverage ingredients, and on inserting the insert into the brew head the inlet and outlet of the insert are arranged to communicate respectively with the inlet and outlet of the brew head such that, in use, water from the inlet of the brew head passes upwardly through the inlet of the insert into the brewing volume and such that beverage produced from the water and the quantity of beverage ingredients passes downwardly through the outlet of the insert to flow out of the outlet of the brew head.
US08087341B2 Personal protection apparatus for vehicles
The invention provides a personal protection apparatus for use in vehicles comprising: a behind-the-seat ballistic shield provided with support means extending to the floor of the vehicle for distributing a weight component of the shield, and a deployable protective ballistic shield and visor articulately linked to the behind-the-seat ballistic shield for protecting the upper chest, neck and head areas of a driver and displaceable between an active deployed position in front of the driver and a storage position.
US08087340B2 Composite treatment of ceramic tile armor
An improved ceramic tile armor has a core of boron nitride and a polymer matrix composite (PMC) facing of carbon fibers fused directly to the impact face of the tile. A polyethylene fiber composite backing and spall cover are preferred. The carbon fiber layers are cured directly onto the tile, not adhered using a separate adhesive so that they are integral with the tile, not a separate layer.
US08087339B2 Armor system
An armor system and method for the interior of a structure to be protected wherein releasable fastener material is secured to an inside wall of the structure and at least a first armor panel includes, in one example, a spacer layer, a ceramic hard face layer behind the spacer layer, a ballistic material behind the ceramic energy absorber layer, an encapsulant about the spacer layer, the ceramic energy absorber layer, and the ballistic material. Releasable fastener material is on the encapsulant adjacent the spacer layer for mating the panel to the inside wall of the structure.
US08087338B1 Firearm suppressor with slip and capacitance chambers
A firearm noise suppressor having an internal base frame member with a plurality of inserts mounted thereto. In one form the suppressor is provided with a slip chamber allowing gas to be forwarded to a longitudinally forward chamber for pre-compression of gas therein.
US08087335B2 Systems and methods for repeating area denial
Systems and methods inhibit locomotion of a human or animal target in a denial zone. Acquiring the target includes forming a prediction of at least two locations of impact on the target and testing the prediction according to criteria that may include whether the locations are within a boundary corresponding to the target and whether the locations are separated by a minimum physical and/or electrical distance. The two locations may serve for conducting a current through the target for impeding locomotion by the target. The current may be repeated in response to determining that locomotion was not sufficiently impeded. Determination may depend on analysis of video of the target.
US08087334B2 Sectioning instrument
A sectioning instrument fabricates a section having an accurate and uniform thickness to be carried to a next step automatically without deforming a surface of an embedded block and while observing the surface of the embedded block. The sectioning instrument includes a sample base for fixing an embedded block, a cutter for fabricating a section by sectioning the embedded block, a carrier for carrying the section, and a feed mechanism for moving the sample base in a predetermined feed direction. The carrier includes a belt, a direction switching portion provided on an upper side of the cutter, and a rear roller. The belt is inserted to between the cutter and the direction switching portion from a rear side of the cutter, folded back to an upper side by the direction switching portion and is reeled back to the rear side of the cutter by the rear roller substantially in parallel with the feed direction of the feed mechanism in a plane view.
US08087333B2 Method for press punching a hole in sheet metal and press die
A punch unit for a press die is provided for punching a hole in sheet metal. The punch unit includes a piercing punch provided with a sharp projection, a plunger for pressing the piercing punch, a cylinder for supporting the piercing punch and the plunger slidably in a punching direction, and a coil spring for retracting the piercing punch and the plunger. Also disclosed is a press die for punching a hole in sheet metal using the punch unit.
US08087332B2 Lathe
In order to improve a lathe comprising a machine frame, a spindle housing which is arranged on the machine frame and in which a workpiece spindle rotatable about a spindle axis is arranged, as well as at least one functional unit designed as a tool carrier and/or as a workpiece transport device in such a manner that as efficient a machining as possible of the workpiece is possible, it is suggested that the spindle housing be designed as an upright housing member, that the upright housing member be arranged on one side of a working space and border on it and that several functional units be arranged on the upright housing member.
US08087329B2 Screwdriver for bone screws
In a screwdriver for bone screws, having a handle and rotationally fixedly held thereon a shaft, the free end of which has a non-circular cross section and is insertable in a positively locked manner in a non-circular receiving opening in the head of a bone screw, at least one expander element being mounted so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction in the shaft and so as to slide, when displaced in the longitudinal direction, along a slide surface in the area of the free end of the shaft in such a way that it projects laterally over the contour of the shaft, in order to simplify the actuation of the at least one expander element, it is proposed that the at least one expander element be pretensioned by an elastic spring element in the direction towards the free end of the shaft and be retractable against the action of the spring element in the shaft until it no longer projects laterally over the contour of the shaft.
US08087328B2 Adjustable one way screw remover
A tool for removing conventional one way fasteners that includes, generally, a member, a collar, and, a shaft that can be removably received by the collar, wherein in the shaft is configured to engage regions of the fastener head. The collar is adjustable to fit fastener heads of different sizes. The member can be configured to correspond to a threaded portion of the outer surface of the collar. The collar may also have a bottom portion that includes multiple splines.
US08087326B2 Low profile wrench and method
A member may be rotated by engaging the member with a drive element and rotating the drive element in a single direction such that rotation in an opposite direction is prevented.
US08087323B2 Gear transmission with reduced transmission wall housing deflection
A gear transmission is provided including at least a first and a second shaft with substantially fixed and substantially parallel axes of rotation, a transmission housing with a first and a second wall that extends perpendicular to the axes of rotation, and a plurality of gearwheels that are rotationally fixed or rotationally fixable to the shafts. The shafts include at least one input shaft and at least one output shaft, the shafts being suspended by bearings that are seated in the first and second walls. The first wall is connected to the second wall with at least one rod in order to reduce deflections in operation of the first and second walls.
US08087320B2 Special path generating device
A special path generating device includes a base, a first axis slide assembly, a second axis slide assembly, a working portion, a driving portion, a first cam and a second cam. This first axis slide assembly includes a first bar and a first slide. The second axis slide assembly includes a second bar and a second slide. This working portion is mounted on the second slide that has two contacting portions. The driving portion is mounted on the base. When the driving portion drives the driving shaft rotating, the first cam and the second cam rotate accordingly and makes the working portion generating a special path. It can generate a constant-speed circular movement. It is easy to control. In addition, its volume is small.
US08087319B2 Transmission including a park arrangement with combination detent/latch
A transmission for a vehicle includes a shift rail movable in a longitudinal direction. The shift rail carries a fork engaging a shift collar. A shift block carried by the shift rail includes a latch and a detent. The latch is latchable with the shift rail for preventing longitudinal movement of the shift rail. A cross shaft extending transverse to the shift rail carries a shift arm engageable with the shift block.
US08087316B2 Flat yoke valve actuator
A Scotch yoke actuator is disclosed with a dual yoke and a diagonally symmetric design. A pair of shafts and pushing devices apply equal, opposing forces to the yoke, causing end loading forces applied to a rotatable shaft attached to the center of the yoke to be cancelled. In embodiments, the weight of the pushing devices is balanced about the yoke, each shaft extends in only one direction from the yoke, and/or the shafts are supported only by the yoke and the pushing devices. In embodiments that use yoke pins, the yoke pins include rollers or bearings to reduce friction, and/or two pair of yoke pin slots support protruding ends of the yoke pins. The yoke pin slots can extend to edges of a yoke housing face, allowing easy shaft removal and reinstallation, and each shaft can include a split end with extensions on opposing sides of the yoke.
US08087313B2 Method for determining expected water uptake in hygroscopic material
Some embodiments relate to methods and processes for determining how a range of weather conditions can affect a selected physical parameter of a material. In some embodiments the weather conditions can include relative humidity and/or temperature, and the selected physical parameter can be mass and or dimensions. For instance, some embodiments can be used to estimate the amount of water that a material may be expected to absorb under in-service conditions. In some embodiments the amount of water can defined by a range bounded by amounts observed at opposing extremes of simulated conditions.
US08087312B2 Automotive transmission shift system linear measurement device
A measurement device includes a base extending along a longitudinal axis, an input connector configured for attachment to a shifter assembly of a vehicle and a clamp configured for attachment to a linkage support bracket of the vehicle. The measurement device measures the linear displacement of a linkage interconnecting the shifter assembly and a transmission of the vehicle in response to movement of the shifter assembly between a first position and a second position. A scale is attached to the input connector and slideably supported by the clamp. A scale reader is attached to the base for measuring linear movement of the scale in response to movement of the shifter assembly between the first and second positions. Preferably, the scale and the scale reader comprise a digital measuring unit having a digital display for displaying the measured linear movement.
US08087311B2 Remote pipe inspection using a mounted camera and sensor
Inspecting an interior portion of a pipe system. An imaging device includes a camera that is fixedly attached to an interior surface of a pipe. The camera captures a plurality of images of an interior portion of a pipe. The imaging device is connected to a data communication network and transmits data over the data communication network. The data includes image signals representative of the captured images. A computing device, also connected to the data communication network, receives the data transmitted over the data communication network by the imaging device. The computing device is remotely located with respect to the imaging device.
US08087310B2 Interconnect for MEMS device including a viscoelastic septum
Provided is a micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) device for use with an elongate structure. The MEMS device includes a generally planar substrate, a device wall layer formed upon the substrate, a septum cavity formed in the device wall layer, a channel formed in the device wall layer in fluid communication with the septum cavity, and a septum element disposed in the septum cavity. The septum element is formed of a viscoelastic material. The septum element defines a septum entry surface and a septum exit surface with the septum exit surface being exposed to the channel and disposed between the septum entry surface and the channel. The septum element is without any openings formed through the septum element extending between the septum entry and exit surfaces. Methods of manufacturing and interacting with the MEMS device are also provided.
US08087309B2 Hermetic sample holder and method for performing microanalysis under controlled atmosphere environment
A hermetic sample holder for use in performing microanalysis of a sample under a controlled atmosphere environment. The sample holder comprises a sample holder body with a sample cavity to receive the sample and a cover movably mounted to the holder body between an open position to allow access to the cavity and a closed position to seal the cavity. The cover is secured in and released from the closed position at least in part by a pressure differential between the cavity and the ambient atmosphere. The cover may be biased toward the open position. The cover may be pivotally mounted about an axis that is perpendicular to a sealing surface of the cover and/or movable in a direction along the pivot axis. A valve may be provided to allow direct evacuation of the cavity to create a pressure differential. An adjustable clamp may be located in the cavity to secure the sample.
US08087307B2 Removal of particulates from gas sampling stream
A sample probe includes a sample probe tip filter and a deflector disposed in relation to the sample probe tip filter, where the deflector is operable to deflect particles in a gas stream away from the sample probe tip filter.
US08087303B2 Product dispensing system
A flow sensor includes a fluid chamber configured to receive a fluid. A diaphragm assembly is configured to be displaced whenever the fluid within the fluid chamber is displaced. A transducer assembly is configured to monitor the displacement of the diaphragm assembly and generate a signal based, at least in part, upon the quantity of fluid displaced within the fluid chamber.
US08087300B2 Edible wafer products produced by extrusion
The present invention relates to edible wafers, in particular to extruded wafers and to the use of these wafers in confectionery.
US08087297B2 Vibrating debris remover
A system and a retrofit kit for removing debris from a surface of a material. At least one vibration subunit is provided which is either embedded within or operatively connected to a back surface of the material. The vibration subunits are capable of converting a driving energy to a vibrating mechanical output energy which is coupled to the material. At least one external energy source is provided which is operatively connected to the vibration subunits. The external energy source is capable of providing the driving energy to the vibration subunits. The vibrating mechanical energy is capable of causing debris to be removed from the surface of the material.
US08087286B2 Method for checking the permeability rate of a closed container
In a method for checking the permeability rate of a closed container (3) with respect to a medium, in particular for checking the permeability rate of a film-type container for accommodating a film container for accommodating a pharmaceutical active constituent formulation, the container (3) is filled with a medium, charged with a gas, and the increase in the amount of medium in the gas is then analysed.
US08087285B2 Apparatus and method for a seal immersion test with aerated fluid
A test apparatus for testing fluid seals within an aerated fluid includes a container and a fluid located within the container. A plurality of seal coupons are submerged within the fluid in the container. An air supply is connected to the container to aerate the fluid within the container. Testing the seal coupons includes flowing air from the air supply through the fluid to contact the seal coupons. After the air has contacted the seal coupons then the plurality of seal coupons are removed from the fluid. A value for at least one characteristic of the seal coupons is then compared with a standard value.
US08087284B2 Method and apparatus for measuring particle characteristics through mass detection
Method for measuring a target particle property. A suspended microchannel resonator is calibrated to determine the relationship between a detected mass and a resonance frequency shift of the resonator. The target particle is suspended in a fluid and introduced into the resonator, and the resonator frequency shift due to the particle is measured. Target particle mass is calculated from the resonator frequency shift, the target particle density, and the fluid density. A target particle property such as size or volume is determined from the calculated target particle mass.
US08087279B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing a legged annular member
A method and apparatus for manufacturing a legged annular member. In one aspect, a work member is formed from a ring-like raw material, and has an annular part and an outer wall part, which is formed from a leg part and a connecting part. The connecting part is removed from the work member to form an intermediate legged annular member having an annular part and a leg part. An inner diameter of the leg part of the intermediate legged annular member is expanded while a burr is removed to form a carrier, which serves as a legged annular member. Therefore, the number of manufacturing processes until completion of the carrier can be reduced, compared to performing separate processes to expand the diameter of the leg part and remove the burr. Thus, it is possible to shorten the period of time needed for completion of the carrier.
US08087266B2 Laundry machine
A novel-structure laundry machine that is capable of washing laundry using steam is disclosed. The laundry machine includes a machine body constituting the external appearance thereof, a drum mounted in the machine body for receiving laundry, a steam generation unit for generating steam, and a primary steam supply part for supplying the steam generated in the steam generation unit into the lower part of the drum.
US08087256B2 Cooling methods and systems using supercritical fluids
The methods and systems using supercritical fluids for cooling of objects with high thermal emissions are disclosed. The unique thermodynamic properties of supercritical fluids combined with microchannel cooling technology allow effective absorption of the waste heat and exclude “vapor lock”, “boiling crisis”, and other deficiencies of conventional two-phase liquid cooling.
US08087255B2 Air-conditioning system for aircraft
Air-conditioning system (10) for aircraft, in particular for commercial aircraft, with a bleed air source (12), a bleed air line (22-30) comprising a main valve (16), and an air-conditioning unit (32), wherein a mass air flow conveyed from the bleed air source (12) through the bleed air line (22-30) to the air-conditioning unit (32) can be controlled by means of the main valve (16). According to the invention it is envisaged that a by-pass line (36-50, 58, 60) comprising a by-pass valve (34) and by-passing at least a part (22-26, 16) of the bleed air line, is present between the bleed air source (12) and the air-conditioning unit (32).
US08087252B2 Turbomachine combustion chamber
An annular combustion chamber for a turbomachine is disclosed. The combustion chamber includes radially internal and radially external cylindrical walls which are fixed by bolting at their upstream ends to an internal and an external annular flange of an annular chamber end wall, and an annular fairing extending in the upstream direction from the chamber end wall. The internal and external annular ends are fixed by bolting to the flanges of the chamber end wall in axial alignment with the annular ends of the walls of the chamber.
US08087247B2 Heat engine/ heat pump using centrifugal fans
An engine/heat pump is shown. Most of its parts rotate around the same central axis. It comprises two doubly connected chambers. Blades in each chamber substantially rotate with the chamber and may be firmly attached to the walls of the chamber, thus forming a modified centrifugal pump with axial input and discharge. An expandable fluid is rotated outward by one of the pumps and then heat is added for an engine or removed for a heat pump as the fluid is being sent to the outer part of the second pump. The fluid travels toward the center of the second pump, thus impelling the pump in the rotation direction. Then heat is removed for an engine or added for a heat pump as the fluid leaves the second pump and travels back to the first pump near the center of rotation. Rotation energy of the fluid is typically much larger than the circulation energy. A modified centrifugal pump with axial discharge having a casing rotating with the blades is also claimed.
US08087243B2 Internal combustion engine turbocharged by a turbocharger
The invention is intended to optimize the recovery of the residual energy contained in the exhaust gases of an internal combustion piston engine by means of a turbocharger group, in which each cylinder (1) from which the combustion gases escape through the exhaust pipe (5) is equipped with a turbine (7), and the volume (5) between the exhaust valve (3) and the inlet of the turbine (7), detrimental to the efficiency thereof, is minimized by the attachment of the turbine directly on the cylinder head of the engine without the intermediary of a collector and, the counter-pressure acting on the piston of the cylinder (1) during its exhaust upstroke is minimized owing to an adjustment of the turbine pressure by means of an additional exhaust valve (4), called a “dynamic discharge valve”, optionally equipped with a downstream throttle valve (8) in order to continuously adjust the corresponding flow rate and, consequently, the pressure of the turbine unless the control of the dynamic discharge valve (4) is not variable itself.
US08087241B2 Compressed air energy storage system utilizing two-phase flow to facilitate heat exchange
A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.
US08087235B2 Process for the removal of harmful substances from exhaust gases of combustion engines and catalyst for carrying out said process
The present invention relates to an integrated system for the treatment of exhaust gases, which preferably consists of at least one NOx-storing component, at least one in situ ammonia-generating component, at least one ammonia-storing component and at least one ammonia (NH3)-SCR-component, as well as to a process for the treatment of exhaust gas comprising at least the steps (i) storing of NOx under lean exhaust gas conditions in at least one NOx-storing component; (ii) in situ conversion of the stored NOx to ammonia (NH3) under rich exhaust gas conditions; (iii) storing of the ammonia (NH3) in at least one NH3-storing component under rich exhaust gas conditions as well as the (iv) reaction of NH3 with NOx under lean exhaust gas conditions. Thereby, the partial steps “storing of NOx” and “conversion of NH3 with NOx” are carried out at least partially and/or temporarily simultaneously and/or parallelly. Furthermore, preferred catalysts are disclosed for carrying out the process.
US08087234B2 Exhaust emission purification control device for internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas purification controller for controlling bed temperature of a DPF, which is arranged in an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine, at a target bed temperature by supplying fuel to the internal combustion engine. The exhaust gas purification controller includes a control unit and a transitional state detection unit. The control unit, when controlling the bed temperature of the exhaust gas purification catalyst, learns a supply amount of fuel that allows for correction of a difference between the catalyst bed temperature and the target bed temperature in the present state and reflects a learned value obtained through the learning on the supply amount of fuel. The transitional state detection unit detects a transitional state of an exhaust gas flow to the DPF. The control unit restricts the learning when the transitional state of the exhaust gas flow is detected.
US08087230B2 Exhaust system for motor vehicles
An exhaust system for discharging exhaust gases through an exhaust passageway, emitted from a multi-cylinder combustion engine mounted on a motor vehicle includes a partition plate formed therein for dividing the exhaust passageway into a plurality of juxtaposed exhaust passages and having a communicating hole defined therein, and an exhaust gas sensor positioned at a location in proximity of the communicating hole for detecting a composition of the exhaust gases.
US08087228B2 Segmented combustor cap
A combustor cap is cooperable with an impingement plate in a turbine fuel nozzle and includes a plurality of cap segments independently securable to the impingement plate. The plurality of cap segments are radially and tangentially movable relative to the impingement plate.
US08087227B2 Connector
This invention relates to a connector, particularly to a shackle suitable for use in connecting two links of a chain or a chain to an anchor, more particularly to a connector comprising a first portion and a second portion, at least one first connector arm on the first portion and at least one second connector arm on the second portion, wherein both the first and second connector arms have multiple bearing surfaces, preferably six, and are able to engage one another when the connector is coupled by means of the bearing surfaces. The connector of the present invention has the advantage of having a break load of 1.3[0.0274 d2(44−0.08 d) kN, wherein d is the nominal diameter, and preferably a thickness of 1.3 d.
US08087226B2 Detent spring on adjustment mechanism for reel-to-bedknife clearance
An adjustment mechanism for reel-to-bedknife clearance includes an adjuster base having an internal bore, an adjustment knob attached to a rod extending through the internal bore to engage one of the reel or bedknife, and a detent spring captured between the adjuster base and the adjustment knob and biased against the adjustment member to resist rotation of the adjustment knob. The detent spring may engage radial notches on the adjustment knob at a plurality of reel-to-bedknife clearance positions.
US08087222B2 Cotton picker spindle with grease reservoir and a grease and dirt seal
A spindle assembly includes a spindle with a blind bore extending along the spindle axis from the drive gear towards the outer end to reduce spindle weight and provide a lubrication reservoir in the spindle. Cross-formed holes extend from the blind bore through to the bearing surface of the spindle. Lubricant from the spindle bars passes into the bore where it is stored and distributed to the journal areas through the small metering apertures. A very low friction seal between the outer bushing and dust collar is pressed into the spindle nut and seals against the polished chrome spindle surface. The seal allows a slight amount of lubricant passage outwardly from the bushings while limiting inward movement of dust towards the bushings.
US08087220B2 Film sealing and wrapping machine with rotary cut and seal jaw
The film sealing and wrapping machine with a rotary cut and seal jaw is provided. The rotary cut and seal jaw has an internal sliding mechanism which provides for smooth and quiet operation. The rotational speed of the jaw may be varied to increase through put and to provide for a title bag around products. The rotary cut and seal jaw may comprise a seal bar and pressure pad may both be spring loaded to self align the seal bar and pressure pad during the sealing and cutting process. Lastly, a gap defined by a belt disposed upstream and downstream of the seal bar and pressure pad may be mechanically linked to the pressure pad through a control carriage.
US08087219B2 Vacuum packaging system
A vacuum packaging system for packaging a vacuum apparatus includes a first accommodating room, a second container, a vacuum room, a first hatch, a second hatch, a delivery apparatus, a discharge device, and a heating apparatus. The delivery apparatus transports the vacuum apparatus from the first accommodating room to the vacuum room to the second accommodating room. The discharge device discharges a sealing element to seal an exhaust through hole of the vacuum apparatus. The heating apparatus is mounted on the inner wall of the vacuum room between the second hatch and the transport pipeline to heat and soften the sealing element.
US08087217B2 Method and a device for forcibly expelling a cork from a bottle of champagne or the like
The method consists in: a) screwing a spherical impact part (16) onto the body of the cork so as to extend it axially; b) orienting and holding the bottle (14) in a predetermined position such that the bottle extends below a reference level (18), the impact part (16) emerging above said level; and c) striking the impact part with a striker surface (22) situated at the end of the arm of a striker accessory (24), e.g. a golf club. This produces a sudden force on the cork of amplitude that is sufficient to forcibly expel the cork solely by the fact of striking against the impact part. The device further comprises a podium (10) defining the reference level (18) and means (30) for orienting and holding the bottle (14) in a predetermined position which may be vertical or inclined.
US08087215B2 Forming, filling and sealing machine, and methods for producing, filing and closing bags
A forming, filling and sealing machine for producing bags from semifinished products, and for filling and closing the bags, includes a plurality of processing stations. At least two processing stations of at least one first group are successively, largely linearly, arranged in the horizontal plane (x, z) in the transport direction (z) of the bags. The bags or semifinished products are transported between the processing stations by transport devices which generally include gripping devices. The machine also includes at least one second group having at least one processing station that is not linearly arranged behind the first group in the horizontal plane (x, z) in the processing direction (z) of the bags.
US08087214B1 Matchbooks having advertising media
Improved matchbooks having separable message sheets are provided for. The novel matchbooks each comprise a comb of matches having a plurality of matches and a cover. The cover is attached to and folded over the comb such that the cover substantially encloses the comb when the cover is in a first closed position and permits a consumer to access the matches in the comb when the cover is in a second open position. The cover has igniting material on the cover on which the matches may be struck and ignited. The matchbooks also have a message sheet providing a substrate on which a message may be imprinted. The message sheet is separably connected to the cover such that the message sheet is separable from the cover. Thus, the message sheet may be removed from a novel matchbook by a consumer without compromising the integrity of the matchbook.
US08087213B2 Interactive product packaging
A package and lock combination includes a package having an unopened state and including an aperture, and a lock contained within the package. The lock includes a first portion and a second portion moveable relative to the first portion for operating the lock. The first portion is substantially fixed within the package, and the second portion extends through the aperture so that the lock is operable while the lock is contained within the package and the package is in the unopened state.
US08087208B2 Frame member fastening device and method of manufacture
A frame member fastening device and method of manufacture provides a single configuration fastening device which can be used singly in connection with a frame member, or which can be combined with another identical fastening device to form a fastening device assembly for use with frame members of different internal widths, by interlocking two identical fastening devices in an opposed, base-to-base assembly configuration. The fastening device is manufactured in a progressive metal forming process with successive stages in which the features of the device are formed.
US08087205B2 Fire-rated wall construction product
The present application is directed toward fire-rated wall construction components and wall systems for use in building construction. Embodiments can include tracks for holding studs which incorporate various geometries capable of receiving fire-retardant material, flat straps for use between tracks and fluted wall components, fire sponges for use in fluted wall components, and tracks with protruding grooves or other structures which prevent unwanted air movement between a wallboard component and the track.
US08087204B1 Sealing cap for intermediate anchor system
A sealing cap for an anchor of a post-tension anchorage system has a tubular body, a flange formed on an end of the tubular body, and a seal positioned adjacent an interior wall of the tubular body. The flange has a connector formed on a circumferential surface thereof for detachably engaging the flange with a tubular section of the anchor. The seal is positioned against the interior wall of the tubular body. The seal has a tubular shape so as to extend entirely around the interior wall. The seal is positioned in liquid-tight relation between the interior wall of the tubular body and a sheathed portion of a tendon extending from the anchor. The seal is inserted between the sheathed portion and the interior wall of the tubular body.
US08087203B2 Waveguide for a radio frequency door
A waveguide for a radio frequency door like that used in a medical imaging room allows intravenous lines and electrical conduits to be inserted through the door frame without being disconnected from the patient. The waveguide includes a door frame section, and a removable, telescoping or pivoting movable member that cooperates with the door frame section to retain the conduits. The movable member is positioned away from the door frame section during insertion and removal of the conduits from the door frame section, and is positioned adjacent the door frame section when the conduits are being retained. The dimensions and materials of the waveguide are selected to achieve attenuation of electromagnetic interference.
US08087199B2 Partial-body large game decoy
A partial-body large game decoy shiftable between a disassembled configuration and an assembled configuration. The decoy may comprise an internal support system, an elongated handle configured for selective attachment to the internal support system, and a cover having a likeness of a large game animal therein or thereon. The cover may have the internal support system disposed therein for providing a desired shape to the cover depicting head, neck, and/or shoulders of a large game animal. A user may hold the decoy by the handle from behind a visual obstacle such that the decoy appears to be a large game animal with its body and legs hidden behind the visual obstacle. In the disassembled configuration, the internal support system may be at least partially disassembled such that the cover may be folded up into a more compact configuration for transport or storage by the hunter.
US08087198B2 Combined illuminated reticle switch and focus knob for sight
A sight. A saddle is connected between an ocular housing and an objective housing. A crosshair is disposed in the ocular housing. A light-emitting element is disposed in the ocular housing, illuminating the crosshair. A focal adjustment member is disposed on the saddle, adjusting an objective focus for the sight. A key-type member is connected to the focal adjustment member and is electrically connected to the light-emitting element, controlling operation of the light-emitting element and adjusting luminous brightness thereof.
US08087196B2 Dot sighting device with large caliber
Provided is a dot sighting device with large caliber for binocular vision in which sighting can be performed rapidly and accurately by minimizing parallax. The dot sighting device is attached to and detached from a mount for a heavy machine gun. In addition, by using the dot sighting device with large caliber, a user can rapidly and accurately sight and fire a target by taking into consideration types and characteristics of the target and a distance to the target.
US08087195B2 Tree mounted apparatus
A portable apparatus, removably attached to an existing vertical support or structure, such as a tree, for providing a firearm rest or suspending articles above the ground. The apparatus may include associated vertical and a horizontal members, where the vertical member is secured to the tree using a securing device such as a cord and binder arrangement. The multi-purpose apparatus is supports a firearm such as a rifle.
US08087191B2 Device for the pixel-integrated return of fluid
An apparatus for the pixel-integrated return of fluid in the pixel of a fluidic display is characterized in that the fluid with which the desired information is to be displayed and/or the carrier fluid in which the fluid is optionally embedded can be returned in a particularly compact manner and in a manner which is invisible to an observer past the visible part of a pixel (image compartment) into a reservoir (reservoir compartment) through or out of the reservoir. The device comprises an image compartment, a reservoir compartment, a connecting duct and at least one return duct, whereby the at least one return duct is formed by the fact that the connecting duct has at least one area with an uninterruptedly enlarged cross section which transitions in a specified manner into the cross section of the original cross section.
US08087189B2 Chemically-treated outsole assembly for a golf shoe
An out-sole assembly for a golf shoe. The outsole assembly includes an internal base member composed of EVA, an inner frame member composed thermoplastic polyurethane subjected to an isocyanate solution, an external base member composed of a thermoplastic polyurethane, a dual looping frame composed of a thermoplastic polyurethane, and a plurality of spike members.
US08087187B2 Article of footwear with support assemblies
An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper. The sole assembly includes a top plate, a bottom plate positioned below the top plate, and a plurality of support assemblies extending between the upper plate and the midsole. Each support assembly includes a fluid-filled bladder and a retaining member surrounding the fluid-filled bladder.
US08087186B2 Piezoelectric-based toe-heaters for frostbite protection
A footwear including a body; a base structure; and one or more electrical energy generators disposed in the base structure for generating electrical energy upon application of an impact to the base structure. The footwear is used to produce electrical energy by impacting a base structure of the footwear; and vibrating a mass-spring unit in the base structure to generate an electrical energy.
US08087181B2 Valve body seat pocket inspection tool
A technique is provided for detecting the surface profile of a seat pocket of a gate valve. An inspection tool is used to detect data at a plurality of points around the bore of the valve. The inspection tool has a sensor that is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position. The inspection tool is disposed within a valve body cavity with the sensor in the retracted position. The sensor of the inspection tool is then extended outward so that it is located within the portion of the bore of the valve having the surface profile to be detected. The sensor is rotated so that the sensor may obtain surface profile data at a plurality of points around the seat pocket of the valve body. The sensor of the inspection tool is connected to a processor-based device, such as a computer. The processor-based device processes the data from the sensor and provides it to a user in a form that is recognizable to the user.
US08087180B1 Adjustable picture frame wall hanging template system
The present invention is an adjustable picture frame wall hanging template system and device with adjustable elements to easily determine and visualize the placement and positioning of an object to be hung on a wall. It can be adjusted by size and shape to determine a desired size and shape of an object to be placed on a wall prior to acquisition of the object. It is light weight and can be easily handled for a single person operation and temporarily attached to the wall for hands free viewing.
US08087172B2 Method and apparatus for extended life journal assembly
A method of extending the life of a journal bearing assembly in a solid fuel pulverizer includes: removing a first lower journal bearing from a journal shaft and a lower bearing seat of a lower bearing housing; removing a first upper journal bearing from the shaft and an upper bearing seat of an upper bearing housing; modifying the lower and upper bearing seats; modifying lower and upper shoulders on the journal shaft; disposing the second lower and upper journal bearings on the modified lower and upper bearing seats; disposing a new journal bearing spacer between the second lower and upper journal bearings; disposing a new journal bearing collar between the upper shoulder and the second upper journal bearing; filling a cavity defined by the lower and upper journal housings with grease; and disposing a seal assembly between the shaft and one end of the upper journal housing opposite the lower journal housing to prevent the ingress of solid fuel into the cavity of the journal assembly.
US08087169B2 Method of manufacturing sheet metal back face pulley
A sheet metal-made cup-shaped material including a circular base plate portion and a cylindrical portion extends from an outer peripheral edge portion of the base plate portion in one direction along the axis of the base plate portion. An annular groove is formed in an upper end portion of the cylindrical portion, whereby an annular projection that projects in a direction opposite to a direction along which the cylindrical portion extends is formed in the cylindrical portion. The annular projection and the cylindrical portion are clampingly pressed to a degree at which the annular groove at least disappears, whereby the outer circumferential face of the projection and the outer circumferential face of the cylindrical portion are flush with each other. Therefore, the axial length of a sheet metal-made back face pulley is increased, and the whole of the increased axial length can be used as the effective length.
US08087166B2 Method for making an axial magnetic field vacuum fault interrupter
An improved vacuum interrupter is made. The vacuum interrupter includes a ring-shaped structure placed between a contact support structure and an electrical contact associated with the contact support structure. A resistivity of the ring-shaped structure is higher than that of the contact support structure, so that current traversing the ring-shaped structure on its way from the contact support structure to the electrical contact is evenly distributed. The ring-shaped structure may be fit into an end portion of the contact support structure, the end portion having a diameter less than an outer diameter of the support structure, but greater than an inner diameter of the support structure. Alternatively, the end portion may be used without the ring-shaped portion, in which case the electrical contact may be shaped to fit into the end portion.
US08087164B2 Printed wiring board and a method of manufacturing a printed wiring board
A method of manufacturing a printed wiring board with solder bumps includes forming a solder-resist layer having small and large apertures exposing a respective conductive pad of the printed wiring board, loading a solder ball in each of the small and large apertures using a mask with aperture areas corresponding to the apertures of the solder-resist layer, forming a first bump having a first height, from the solder ball in the small aperture, and a second bump having a second height, from the solder ball in the large aperture, the first height being greater than the second height, and pressing a top of the first bump such that the first height becomes substantially the same as the second height. A multilayer printed wiring board includes a solder-resist layer with apertures of differing sizes and solder bumps having substantially equal volumes but a difference in height no greater than 10 μm.
US08087163B2 Method of manufacturing a contact arrangement between a microelectronic component and a carrier
The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a contact arrangement (10) between a microelectronic component (11) and a carrier substrate (12) and to an assembly unit (24) manufactured by this method, whereby thermal energy required in the connecting areas is achieved by exposing the back of the component to laser energy, a mechanical connecting contact (23) is formed between opposing connecting surfaces (17, 18) of the component and the carrier substrate, and at least one electrically conducting connecting contact (22) is formed between terminal faces (13, 15) of the carrier substrate and of the component arranged at an angle to one another by t least partially melting solder material, whereby the assembly unit manufactured by this method has at least one contact arrangement.
US08087161B2 Assembling device with positioning block
An assembling device for assembling an electronic device which includes a front shell, a rear shell, a lens cover mounted on one of the front and rear shells includes a supporting member and a pressing member. The supporting member includes a base and a positioning block according to the lens cover to be assembled. The base defines a well for receiving the electronic device to be assembled. The positioning block is positioned in the well and has an adjustable height relative to the bottom surface of the well. The pressing member includes a pressing portion which is configured for pressing one of the front and rear shells of the electronic device. Thereby when assembling the electronic device, the height of the positioning block can be adjusted to press or not press the lens cover depending on which of the front and rear shells is assembled.
US08087159B2 Tube expander for heat exchanger
A tube expander is configured so that only the slide body that is worn down can be removed from the slide unit means and a new slide body is attached through the fastening means easily at low cost. The tube expander is configured by a support column formed on a base; a stripper plate which presses down an end plate of the heat exchanger for defining a projection length of heat exchanger tubes, the stripper plate being reciprocally movable along a longitudinal direction of the support column; and a reference stand is connected to the stripper plate and reciprocally movable along the support column for stopping the stripper plate at a predetermined position. A part of the reference stand is slidably attached to a guide bar formed on the support column through a slide unit; and a slide body formed separately from a reference stand is attached to the slide unit located at the support column through a fastening means.
US08087157B2 Process to manufacture magnetic tunnel junction read head
Using a beam of xenon ions together with a suitable mask, a MTJ stack is ion milled until a part of it, no more than about 0.1 microns thick, has been removed so that a pedestal, having sidewalls comprising a vertical section that includes all of the free layer, has been formed. This is followed by formation of the longitudinal bias and conductive lead layers in the usual way. Using xenon as the sputtering gas enables the point at which milling is terminated to be more precisely controlled.
US08087154B2 Motor
A motor includes a core having a plurality of laminations, which are stacked together and an end-plate provided at an end surface of the core and supporting the core, wherein the end-plate is formed by pressing a hollow material in one direction thereof in order to plastically deform the hollow material in a plate-shape.
US08087151B2 Gas sensor having zinc oxide nano-structures and method of fabricating the same
A gas sensor includes zinc oxide nano-structures formed on a substrate, a plurality of metal islands coated on a surface of each zinc oxide nano-structure and separated from one another, a first electrode electrically connected to one end of each zinc oxide nano-structure through the substrate, a second electrode electrically connected to the other end of each zinc oxide nano-structure, and a current variation-measuring unit electrically connected to each of the first electrode and the second electrode so as to measure a variation in the amount of current flowing between the first electrode and the second electrode. In order to form the plurality of metal islands on the zinc oxide nano-structures, a solution of metal components of a metal material is coated on the surface of each zinc oxide nano-structure.
US08087150B2 Method for shaping a lens by cutting out
A method of shaping an optical lens (100) includes at least one operation of edging along a desired outline that includes cutting through the material of the lens (100) includes a cutting-out tool (637). Cutting out includes a plurality of passes, each performed along the desired outline as a pass that is axially shallow.
US08087148B2 Structure of driving unit in drum type washing machine
A drum type washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a tub mounted in a cabinet, a drum mounted in the tub, a shaft that transmits a driving force from a motor to the drum, front and rear bearings mounted on an outer circumference of opposite end portions of the shaft, a bearing housing built in a central portion of a rear wall of the tub to support the front bearing, a rotor coupled to the rear end portion of the shaft, a stator fixed to the tub rear wall inward of the rotor, and a connector of the rotor that serration coupled to the outer circumference of the shaft in front of the rear bearing so as to transmit rotating power from the rotor to the shaft. A bearing bracket may be fixed to the rear wall of the tub so as to cover an outside of the rotor and support the rear bearing.
US08087147B2 Method of reinforcing a plastic foam cup
A reinforced plastic foam cup including a body which defines an open top end and a closed bottom end, wherein the top end has a greater diameter than the bottom end. The body includes a reinforced tapered side wall that extends from the bottom end to the top end. A substantial portion of the reinforced tapered side wall includes a plastic foam layer, a pressure sensitive adhesive layer and a rigid material layer. Such reinforced plastic foam cup provides an improved tactile feel and enhanced insulation and rigidity properties.
US08087145B2 Alignment tool apparatus and method
An alignment apparatus and method for aligning work pieces. The alignment apparatus includes a base member and at least on adjustable leg that extends from the base member. The alignment apparatus additionally includes a vacuum plate mounted to the adjustable leg. The alignment apparatus also has a an actuator mounted to the base member wherein the actuator includes a shaft extending therefrom. The alignment apparatus includes an attachment member connected to the shaft.
US08087142B2 Pivoting tacker
A tacker for applying a rotary tack, including a drive shaft coupled to a trigger, wherein operating the trigger causes rotation of the drive shaft, a magazine that holds a rotary tack rotatingly connected to the drive shaft, and an articulated applicator arm including a rotatable output shaft rotatingly connected to the magazine, wherein the magazine is proximal to the articulated applicator arm, the articulated applicator arm including one or more pivoting links, each pivoting link including a link shaft, wherein operation of the trigger causes the driver shaft and the one or more link shafts to rotate so as to distally advance the rotary tack from the magazine past the one or more pivoting links.
US08087139B2 Replacement of air cleaner cover
A cleaner cover replacing method includes the steps of detaching a first cleaner cover from a cleaner case; placing an attachment into fitted engagement with claw hooking parts of the cleaner case, placing a second cleaner cover on the cleaner case, and causing a bolt to pass through a bolt hole of the second cleaner cover and to threadedly engage with a nut part of the attachment.
US08087138B2 Bead crimping tool
A bead crimping tool for crimping a bead element and method for use, wherein the tool includes a base handle, a crush plate member, a pair of opposed pincer members, an actuator handle, and a crush arm member. The bead element is placed on the crush plate and preferably secured in place by the crush arm. Crimping the bead includes squeezing of the actuator handle. During a first portion of such actuation, a cam portion of the actuator handle cases the pincer members to impart a lateral compressive force to a lateral portion of the bead element sufficient to collapse the bead element in a lateral direction. During a subsequent second portion of the single actuation cycle, the crush arm is caused to impart a longitudinal compressive force about a top portion of the bead element sufficient to compress the collapsed bead element in a longitudinal direction.
US08087137B2 Flat clamping hand tool structure
A flat clamping hand tool structure includes a left clamping seat having one side with a left fixing portion facing a right fixing portion on one side of a right clamping seat. The first and second fixing members move up and down in left and right mounting slots of the left and right clamping seats by left and right swing plates which are pivotally connected with upper and lower holders. The left and right clamping seats are guided to move by guiding blocks of the upper and lower holders to slide along guiding grooves of the left and right clamping seats. Left and the right arms pivot together through a first pivot member. Left and right limit portions of the left and right swing plates mesh with each other so as to drive the left and right clamping seats to carry out a clamping motion.
US08087135B2 Method of manufacturing a piezoelectric vibrator
A piezoelectric vibrator manufacturing method includes a cavity forming step for forming depressions for a cavities on at least one of two wafers; a bonding electrode film forming step for forming bonding electrode films on bonded surfaces of the both wafers; a mount pattern forming step for forming a pair of mount patterns in the cavity; a through hole forming step for forming a pair of through holes in the cavity; a through electrode forming step for forming a pair of through electrodes electrically connected with the pattern in the cavity; a mount step for electrically connecting the pattern and a piezoelectric vibrating strip, a superimposing step for superimposing the both wafers and storing getter materials; a bonding step for anodically bonding the both wafers to fabricating a wafer member; a gettering step for adjusting the degree of vacuum in the interior of the cavity while measuring a series resonance resistance value; and a cutting step for cutting the wafer member into individual pieces.
US08087130B2 Fastener
The present invention is directed to a fastener having a curved end and a head away from the curved end, wherein an object can be hooked up at the curved end, the head being provided with a narrower passage for a cord to pass through and a wider passage for a tape to pass through, the cord and the tape being used to connect to the same subject or separately to different subjects.
US08087129B2 Hinges and parts therefor
A parallel opening hinge (1) comprises a first track (3), a second track (5) and at least two pairs of pivotally connected crossing links (7, 9), wherein each pair of crossing links (7, 9) is mounted to the tracks (3, 5) via a fixed pivot (13, 17) and a movable pivot (15, 19) in each track (3, 5), wherein a connector (23) joins two movable pivots (15) in a track (5) such that the movable pivots (15) move together. Improved opening of a parallel opening vent can thereby result. Other improved features of a parallel opening hinge are also described.
US08087125B2 Suction head structure and vacuum cleaner using the same
A suction head structure (10) and a vacuum cleaner (20) using the same for adsorbing grains is provided. The suction head structure includes an accommodating room (14), a plurality of suction tubes (11), an eject tube (12), and an air inlet (13). The accommodating room is configured for accommodating grains therein. The suction tubes connect with the accommodating room. Each of the plurality of suction tubes is configured for adsorbing grain into the accommodating room. The eject tube connects with the accommodating room. The eject tube is configured for ejecting grains accommodated in the accommodating room. The air inlet connects with the eject tube. The air inlet is configured for injecting cool air into the eject tube.
US08087122B2 Cleaning systems and methods for removing foreign substances from visible surfaces on vehicles
A cleaning system for a visible surface of a vehicle having a brake system comprising at least one tank of pressurized air, comprising at least one accumulator, a bleed valve assembly, at least one nozzle assembly, and a control valve assembly. Operation of the control valve assembly selectively allows and prevents pressurized air within the accumulator to flow to the at least one nozzle assembly. The bleed valve assembly controls the flow of air from the at least one tank of pressurized air to the at least one accumulator such that flow of pressurized air from the accumulator to the at least one nozzle assembly does not adversely affect operation of the brake system.
US08087119B2 Pipeline pig with internal flow cavity
A pig for movement within a pipeline comprising a cylindrical housing with annular seals circumferentially mounted to the housing and extending outwards for sealing engagement between the pipeline and the housing. An internal flow cavity passes through the housing, with a gate positioned within the internal flow cavity, initially obstructing flow through the cavity. A locking device, connected to the gate, prevents the gate opening. A sensing device is capable of receiving a signal and is connected to an unlocking device. The sensing device receives a signal activating the unlocking device, thereby removing the locking device, permitting the gate to open and flow to pass through the cavity.
US08087113B2 Inflatable support
An alternating pad comprises a first set and a second set of alternately inflatable cells. Both sets of inflatable cells are supplied with air from a pump via a rotary valve. A sensor is positioned under the pad to receive pressure exerted by a patient upon movement and to be compressible relative to the applied pressure. Any change in patient position or movement will cause an alteration in the airflow in the sensor pad tube and will reduce or increase the differential pressure measured at the pressure transducer. Based on this feedback the microprocessor directly controls the power level to the pump and increases or decreases the air flow to the cells to alter the amplitude of the cells and also controls the timing of the rotary valve to change the timing of the inflation and deflation cycle.
US08087106B1 Flapper valve apparatus and method of use
The flapper valve apparatus and method of use provides a flapper valve that is basic and easily installed on the pins of a toilet reservoir overflow tube. The apparatus has sufficient flexibility to allow flexing of the arms and ears for easy installation. The apparatus provides water volume conservation by seating the lower bulb within the valve seat prior to substantial drainage of the reservoir. And, a user can vary the amount of water used in a flush by varying flush handle hold time.
US08087104B2 Manual toilet seat lifter apparatus
A manual toilet seat lifter apparatus is provided for lifting and lowering a toilet seat and includes strap hinge members connected to the toilet seat. A hinge pin is received in the strap hinge members. A riser rod is connected to the hinge pin. A handle is connected to a top end of the riser rod, and a counterweight is connected to a bottom end of the riser rod. Preferably, a horizontal transition portion is connected between the hinge pin and the riser rod. Preferably, a horizontal extension portion is connected to the riser rod at a location on the riser rod which is opposite to the horizontal transition portion. With a second embodiment of the invention, which is a combined toilet seat lifter and toilet seat cover lifter apparatus, toilet seat cover lifting means are provided for lifting and lowering a toilet seat cover.
US08087102B2 Protective shoulder pads with release mechanisms
This invention concerns improved protective shoulder pads for protecting an individual wearing the protective shoulder pads against impact to the superior, anterior, posterior and/or lateral regions of the shoulder and upper arm. The improvement comprises protective shoulder pads with release mechanisms that allow the protective shoulder pads to be safely and easily removed from the individual wearing the protective shoulder pads while the individual wearing the protective shoulder pads is maintained in the supine position, thus decreasing the risk of further injuring the individual wearing the protective shoulder pads.
US08087100B2 Helmet mount for night vision goggles
A helmet mount for night vision apparatus wherein night vision goggles can be coupled and uncoupled to its power pack without the use of tools and wherein the power pack can be coupled and uncoupled to a helmet without the use of tools. When an aviator wearing a helmet with night vision apparatus so mounted, is ejected from his aircraft both the goggles and the power pack are released from the helmet.
US08087099B2 Helmet and helmet size adjusting method
A cap-like head backing cover includes a plurality of types of cover components. The plurality of types of cover components include cover main body portions, and connecting means capable of separably connecting and combining the cover main body portions of one of the cover components to and with the cover main body portions of another at least one of the cover components. The cover main body portions of the plurality of types of cover components are connected to and combined with each other by the connecting means, to form the cap-like head backing cover which includes the plurality of types of cover components and is independent. With the helmet having this arrangement, even when a helmet wearer whose head shape is different from that of an average human head is to wear the helmet, the helmet can be matched to the head of the helmet wearer substantially optimally. The helmet size can be not only partially decreased but also partially increased. The cover component at an arbitrary portion of the cap-like head backing cover can be exchanged with a comparatively simple operation. Also, head backing cover can be attached to an impact-on-the-head absorbing liner or the like comparatively easily.
US08087094B2 Shirt having form-fitting mid-section support
The shirt for supporting and shaping the mid-section of a wearer provides a shirt having a top-section and a mid-section. The mid-section of the shirt includes an upper and lower region each constructed having a plurality of fabric densities or integrated elasticity portions. These elasticity portions provide support for the abdominal region, back, and back-side regions of the wearer where “love handles” sometime develop. The top-section of the shirt has a substantially loose fitting construction to yield a simple, clean and comfortable fit that facilitates breath-ability and comfort to the wearer. The shirt may be worn as an undershirt or as outerwear to minimize the wearer's torso. In another embodiment, the shirt further comprises an outer portion that extends over and covers the mid-section so that the mid-section acts as an internal support structure when the shirt is worn as a T-shirt or outerwear.
US08091142B2 Supplementary trust model for software licensing/commercial digital distribution policy
A flexible use licensing system for an application comprising a plurality of licensable products is provided comprising an application level product policy definition license, and a licensable product policy definition license corresponding to each licensable product. The flexible use license further comprises a rights account certificate for validating the use license against a variety of environmental conditions, and an external validation component for validating the use license at a licensing authority without the transmittal of the entire use license.
US08091140B2 Electro-mechanical system for non-duplication of audio files
A system consisting of a memory storage unit in which the licensed audio files are stored. The function of this device is to recognize the requested data and thereby allow the audio file contents from the memory storage unit according to the instructions set to this device. It is an effective means for protecting the audio files in the device from duplication.
US08091136B2 Packet transfer device, packet transfer method, and program
A packet transfer apparatus is provided with: storage means configured to store a predetermined search pattern and an address identifying a predetermined apparatus; determination means configured to determine whether predetermined data in a packet received from a network interface matches the search pattern; determination means configured to determine a network interface for outputting the packet using the determination result; replacement means configured to replace an address identifying a destination apparatus of the packet with an address identifying the predetermined apparatus when outputting the packet from a network interface connected to the predetermined apparatus; and packet sending means configured to send the packet to the determined network interface.
US08091128B2 Information flow enforcement for RISC-style assembly code in the presence of timing-related covert channels and multi-threading
A method and apparatus is disclosed for performing information flow enforcement for assembly code. In one embodiment, the method comprises receiving assembly code having timing annotations with type information that enforce information flow with respect to one or more of timing-related covert and concurrent channels when statically checked as to whether the code is in violation of a security policy and performing verification with respect to information flow for the assembly code based on a security policy.
US08091127B2 Heuristic malware detection
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and computer program product for the heuristic malware detection. In one embodiment of the invention, a heuristic malware detection method can include merging a baseline inventory of file attributes for respective files from each client computing system in a community of client computing systems into a merged inventory. The method further can include receiving an updated inventory of file attributes in a current inventory survey from different ones of the client computing systems. Each received survey can be compared to the merged inventory, and in response to the comparison, a deviant pattern of file attribute changes can be detected in at least one survey for a corresponding client computing system. Thereafter, the deviant pattern can be classified as one of a benign event or a malware attack. Finally, malware removal can be requested in the corresponding client computing system if the deviant pattern is classified as a malware attack.
US08091126B2 Failure recognition
A system and method for failure recognition is disclosed. The technology initially establishes a security association (SA) between a client and a first server on a network. In addition, an active reference count of a number of connections in the SA between the client and the first server is maintained. The SA is evaluated when the active reference count returns less than two connections within the SA between the client and the first server.
US08091125B1 Method and system for performing asynchronous cryptographic operations
A system and method for performing asynchronous cryptographic operations. A cryptographic toolkit receives requests for cryptographic operations, and initiates the cryptographic operations within a thread of execution. The toolkit detects when the cryptographic operations are complete, retrieves the results, and returns the results to a calling program. The cryptographic operations are performed in an asynchronous manner, without blocking a calling program. The calling program can specify whether the requested operations are to be performed without blocking.
US08091124B2 Caching public objects with private connections
Described is a technology by which a web proxy server forwards a client request for content to a web server over an unauthenticated connection, including when the client already has an authenticated connection to that web server. If the web content is received in response, the content is public, whereby the web proxy server caches the content and returns the content to the client. If the requested content is not received because of a need for authentication, the content is re-requested over the client's authenticated connection, or if one does not yet exist, returns the response to the client to complete the authentication process to establish an authenticated connection. A learning mechanism (e.g., that persists known private URLs) may be coupled to the selection mechanism to maintain references to objects that are private, and thereby avoid redundant retrieval attempts for known private objects over unauthenticated connections.
US08091122B2 Computer program product, apparatus and method for secure HTTP digest response verification and integrity protection in a mobile terminal
A mobile terminal for securely communicating with a network includes a user identity module (UIM) and a user equipment module. The user equipment module includes a client application. The UIM is in operable communication with the user equipment and includes a password provisioning module (PPM), a password generating module, a response verification module (RVM) and a response generation module (RGM). The PPM is configured to store a password. The password generating module is in operable communication with the PPM and configured to generate the password. The RGM and RVM are in operable communication with both the client application and the PPM. The RGM is configured to generate an authentication response from the password in response to a request from the client application. The RVM is configured to verify a request for a server digest response and generate a verification result in response to a request from the client application.
US08091121B2 Method and apparatus for supporting different authentication credentials
Techniques for supporting concurrent data services with different credentials are described. A wireless communication network authenticates a user/device whenever new credentials are used. An access terminal sends first credentials via a Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) link to a Packet Data Serving Node (PDSN) and receives an indication of successful authentication for a first data service based on the first credentials. The access terminal may receive a request for a second data service and second credentials from an internal application or a terminal device coupled to the access terminal. The access terminal then sends the second credentials via the PPP link to the PDSN while the first data service is ongoing. The access terminal receives from the PDSN an indication of successful authentication for the second data service based on the second credentials. The access terminal may send a Configure-Request packet or an Authenticate-Request packet to trigger or initiate authentication by the PDSN for the second data service.
US08091117B2 System and method for interfacing with heterogeneous network data gathering tools
A prevention-based network auditing system includes a plurality of heterogeneous information sources gathering information about the network. An audit server invokes the heterogeneous information sources via a uniform communications interface to gather information about the network, and converts the information gathered by the information sources into a normalized data format such as, for example, into XML (Extensible Markup Language). The converted information is then stored in an audit repository for security and regulatory policy assessment, network vulnerability analysis, report generation, and security improvement recommendations.
US08091116B2 Communication system and method
A method of authenticating a user terminal with an access node providing restricted access to a communication network is provided. The method comprises the user terminal transmitting a request for an authentication token to a trusted network node via an unrestricted channel on the access node, the request comprising a network identity for a user of the user terminal. The network node verifies the identity of the user using the network identity, generates an authentication token and transmits the authentication token to the user terminal via the unrestricted channel. The user terminal derives login information from the authentication token and provides the login information to the access node. The access node authenticates the login information and removes the restricted access such that the communication network can be accessed by the user terminal.
US08091113B2 Simultaneously reproducing broadcast and replay content on a display
A media reproducing apparatus includes a receiving unit for receiving primary content, memory for storing replay content from an identified portion of the primary content for time-shifted display of the primary content, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to cause a display to display at a first display rate the primary content on a first region of a display, and further cause the display to display the replay content at a second display rate, which is different than the first display rates on a second region of the display. The replay content being displayed simultaneously with the primary content. The control unit is further configured to terminate the display of the replay content upon an occurrence of a timing event. The terminating operation causes the primary content to be displayed on both the first region and the second region of the display.
US08091111B2 Methods and apparatus for recording and replaying sports broadcasts
A system for replaying a broadcast sports event using a video on demand or personal video recording system. Metadata is created that subdivides the original broadcast into segments, and associates descriptive information with each segment. Playlists that specify an ordered subsequence of the sequence may be selected and used to present a variety of expanded or condensed versions of the sporting event to a viewer. Navigation controls including segment lists, specially formatted screen displays, and special functions under the control of a user-operated remote control, facilitate the interactive selection and control of the presentation.
US08091108B2 Meta data enhanced television programming
A variety of meta data based enhancements to media content viewing are described, including making meta data corresponding to media content available for user searching and using meta data to identify highlight portions of the media content so that only the highlight portions need to be stored. Additionally, comments made to media content can be shared with other viewers of the content, even when viewing the content at different times and even when viewing different versions of the content. Furthermore, a synchronization point can be established for the media content and used by the client systems as a common reference location. In addition, advertisements for media content can be rendered based on how much time has been spent rendering the media content, as well as the amount of a fee paid by the user of the client system.
US08091102B2 Methods and systems that motivate tuning to a transmission channel for a time period
Systems and methods are provided for motivating a user to watch a television channel for a predetermined period of time and enabling access to a media asset related to a program provided on the channel. A tuner is tuned to a transmission channel and a program is received concurrently with a portion of a media asset. The viewing behavior is monitored to determine whether the user tunes to a different transmission channel before a predetermined time period elapses. When the user tunes to a different transmission channel before the predetermined time period elapses, access to the media asset is prevented. When the user stays tuned to the particular transmission channel for the predetermined time period, access to the media asset is enabled. The media asset may be transmitted to a portable user device, such as a mobile phone.
US08091101B2 Channel tune dwell time log processing
Reporting data related to content processing devices, e.g., television devices, are processed to identify channel tunes and corresponding tune times of the content processing devices. Automatically generated channel tunes based on the corresponding tune times are identified. Content items that are aired during a time period defined by the corresponding tune times can be adjusted.
US08091100B2 Prompting of audience member identification
An audience measurement system determines the likelihood that an audience member is in the audience of a receiver during a particular day part. If the audience member is not likely to be in the audience of the receiver during that day part, the audience member is prompted to enter an audience member identification. On the other hand, if the audience member is likely to be in the audience of the receiver during that day part, prompting of the audience member to enter an audience member identification is suppressed.
US08091099B2 Spindle motor having clamping device
Provided is a spindle motor having a clamping device. The spindle motor includes a bearing housing disposed on a base, a rotation shall rotatably supported by a bearing in the bearing housing, a stator coupled to the bearing housing, a bush directly coupled to the rotation shaft exposed from an upper portion of the bearing housing, a rotor yoke directly coupled to the bush, a magnet fixed on an inner circumference of the rotor yoke, and a clamping device disposed on the rotor yoke. The clamping device includes a body, a stopper, a weight, and an elastic member. The stopper is coupled to the body. The weight is coupled to the stopper. The elastic member elastically supports the stopper.
US08091095B2 Embedded driver for an electronic device
An electronics module with driver information electronically associated therein. The driver information may be in a memory on the electronics module. The memory may store drivers for multiple operating systems, including a virtual machine type operating system that can be used with any processor or operating system that can run the virtual machine. The memory may alternatively store website information, e.g., an address of the website and codes to use on the website to get the right driver and to validate the hardware.
US08091094B2 Methods and systems for ambistateful backend control
Methods, computer-readable media, and systems control a backend. In one implementation, a method controls a backend by executing, at the backend, at least one command. The method may determine, by applying a set of ambistateful criteria, whether to place the backend under stateless control or stateful control, upon completion of executing the at least one command.
US08091093B2 System and method for information assurance based on thermal analysis techniques
Systems and methods for network security are disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention include a scalable, real-time solution to complement existing security systems and detect unusual activity. Embodiments of the present invention leverage the scale and complexity of networks and use the principles of statistical physics and thermodynamics to define thermal properties like entropy, temperature and energy for network states and changes in the properties as packets move through the network.
US08091092B2 Locally providing globally consistent information to communications layers
Globally consistent information is locally provided to communications layers. Globally consistent information is stored in a Network Availability Matrix, which is locally accessible by a communications layer. If an event is detected, the communications layer is automatically notified by the Network Availability Matrix, and is able to use the information in the Network Availability Matrix to quickly take action.
US08091091B2 Apparatus for facilitating transactions between thin-clients and message format service (MFS)-based information management systems (IMS) applications
An apparatus is disclosed for facilitating conversational and non-conversational transactions between thin-clients and MFS-based IMS applications. The apparatus stores conversation attributes associated with a conversational transaction between a thin-client and an MFS-based IMS application, the conversation attributes comprising connection information and conversation-specific information. Next, one or more transaction messages from the thin-client are preprocessed based on a transaction message type. The stored conversation attributes are updated in response changes in the conversation attributes caused by the one or more transaction messages. Then, a conversation output message is formatted for the thin-client. The apparatus may include a security module that authenticates user, a connection module that establishes a connection with an MFS-based IMS application, a state module that preserves and maintains conversation attributes, and a control module to process a transaction message having one or more transaction message types.
US08091090B2 Method for providing scratch registers for use by a virtual-machine monitor
In one embodiment of the present invention, a virtual-machine monitor detects entry and exit from guest-operating system code, storing the values of a set of high-order floating point registers in memory on entry, and restoring the values of the set of high-order floating point registers on exit. The virtual-machine monitor can then use the set of high-order floating point registers as scratch registers for emulation of guest-operating-system instructions. In alternative embodiments, a virtual-machine monitor obtains scratch registers for any code that the virtual-machine monitor can detect entry into and exit from, and for which a set of infrequently used registers can be identified, by storing the current contents of the set of registers upon detected entry into the code and restoring the original contents of the set of registers upon exit from the code.
US08091086B1 System and method for virtualization using an open bus hypervisor
A computer system includes an Open Bus Hypervisor having the highest privilege level. An Open Bus Hypervisor is a set of modules that operate on the root level. The Open Bus Hypervisor provides support for processing, filtering and redirecting of low level events. The Open Bus Hypervisor is used primarily for maintenance and support of computer virtualization features, which are implemented within computer system CPU. Additionally, the Open Bus Hypervisor can be used for supporting new hardware and software modules installed on a computer system. A Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) runs with fewer privileges than the Open Bus Hypervisor. A Primary Virtual Machine (PVM) runs without system level privileges and has a Primary Operating System (POS) running within it.
US08091083B2 Electronic apparatus configured to replace an abnormal program with a downloaded replacement program
A communicator is adapted to perform communications with an external apparatus. A rewritable memory stores a control program configured to control an operation of the electronic apparatus, and a first communication program. An unrewritable memory stores a second communication program. A first inspector is operable to judge whether the control program is normal. A second inspector is operable to judge whether the first communication program is normal. A first downloader is operable to download the control program from the external apparatus by way of the communicator under the control of the first communication program, in a case where the first inspector judges the control program is not normal and the second inspector judges the first communication program is normal. A second downloader is operable to download at least one of the control program and the first communication program from the external apparatus by way of the communicator under the control of the second communication program, in a case where the first inspector judges the control program is not normal and the second inspector judges the first communication program is not normal.
US08091082B2 Systems and methods for risk analysis and updating of software
Systems and methods for updating software includes detecting a change for a change object being generated or mitigated across a system landscape; comparing the change to a predetermined guideline; and preventing the change from propagating across the system landscape.
US08091078B2 Dynamically partitioning processing across a plurality of heterogeneous processors
A program is into at least two object files: one object file for each of the supported processor environments. During compilation, code characteristics, such as data locality, computational intensity, and data parallelism, are analyzed and recorded in the object file. During run time, the code characteristics are combined with runtime considerations, such as the current load on the processors and the size of the data being processed, to arrive at an overall value. The overall value is then used to determine which of the processors will be assigned the task. The values are assigned based on the characteristics of the various processors. For example, if one processor is better at handling intensive computations against large streams of data, programs that are highly computationally intensive and process large quantities of data are weighted in favor of that processor. The corresponding object is then loaded and executed on the assigned processor.
US08091077B1 System and method for handling rare events by modification of executable code
Systems and methods for the efficient handling of rare events by modification of executable code is provided. The present invention eliminates the need for event checking code and handling in the primary execution path of compiled code by using a patch table to modify code during execution. Accordingly, event handling does not introduce additional instructions to the primary execution path, and thus will not interfere with compiler optimizations for maximal performance along the primary execution path. The present invention, therefore, provides event handling for events that occur rarely while reducing the size of the code for execution on memory-constrained devices.
US08091069B2 Module specification language and meta-module
A language for the specification of object-oriented modules is disclosed. The specification language is processed by a computer-implemented parser to produce an object-oriented data structure. Expressions in the specification language may include specifications of modules, classes, and class members. Expressions in the specification language may include predicate expressions which permit general-purpose declarative specifications pertaining to modules, classes, and members.
US08091061B2 Microcomputer having memory interface circuits and memory devices on a module board
A microcomputer provided on a rectangular semiconductor board has memory interface circuits. The memory interface circuits are separately disposed in such positions as to extend along the peripheries of the semiconductor board on both sides from one corner as a reference position. In this case, limitations to size reduction imposed on the semiconductor board can be reduced compared with a semiconductor board having memory interface circuits only on one side. Respective partial circuits on each of the separated memory interface circuits have equal data units associated with data and data strobe signals. Thus, the microcomputer has simplified line design on a mother board and on a module board.
US08091057B1 Synthesis, place, and route responsive to reasons for critical paths not meeting performance objective
Methods are provided for implementing a design of an integrated circuit meeting a performance objective. A timing analysis for the design specifies critical timing paths that do not meet the performance objective. Reasons are determined for the critical timing paths failing to meet the performance objective. A specification of the design is synthesized into a netlist specifying interconnections of primitive elements. The synthesis includes controlling a fanout of a primitive element on each critical timing path failing from excessive fanout. The primitive elements are placed at respective positions, including priority placement of a primitive element on each critical timing path failing from bad placement. The interconnections are routed between the primitive elements at the respective positions. The routing includes priority routing of an interconnection on each critical timing path failing from long routing. A specification of the placed and routed primitive elements is stored.
US08091054B2 Synthesis strategies based on the appropriate use of inductance effects
A method of optimizing the signal propagation speed on a wiring layout is provided. In general, the method accounts for and uses inductance effects caused by the propagation of a high-speed signal on a signal wire surrounded by parallel ground wires. In particular, one of the physical parameters defining the wiring layout may be adjusted to create an rlc relationship in the wiring layout that maximizes the signal propagation speed. The physical parameter that is adjusted may be, for example, the wire separation between the signal wire and the ground wires or the width of the ground wires. The disclosed method may also be applied to a wiring layout having multiple branches, such as a clock tree. In this context, a first branch may be optimized using the disclosed method. Downstream branches may then be adjusted so that the impedances at the junction between the branches are substantially equal.
US08091053B2 System, method, and program for generating circuit
An aspect of the invention provides a circuit generation system that can automatically generate a power control circuit. In the circuit generation system according to the aspect of the invention includes a behavioral synthesis unit that generates synthesis-attached information and RT-level circuit information based on behavioral-level description information in which information on a circuit is described by a program language; and a power control circuit generation unit that generates a power control circuit based on the synthesis-attached information, and connects the generated power control circuit to an RT-level circuit of the RT-level circuit information.
US08091050B2 Modeling system-level effects of soft errors
Mechanisms for modeling system level effects of soft errors are provided. Mechanisms are provided for integrating device-level and component-level soft error rate (SER) analysis mechanisms with micro-architecture level performance analysis tools during a concept phase of the IC design to thereby generate a SER analysis tool. A first SER profile for the IC design is generated by applying the SER analysis tool to the IC design. At a later phase of the IC design, detailed information about SER vulnerabilities of logic and storage elements within the IC design are obtained and the first SER profile is refined based on the detailed information about SER vulnerabilities to thereby generate a second SER profile for the IC design. Modifications to the IC design are made at one or more phases of the IC design based on one of the first SER profile or the second SER profile.
US08091049B2 Integrated single spice deck sensitization for gate level tools
One embodiment of the present invention provides systems and techniques for generating a transistor-level description of a subcircuit. A user may want to simulate a subcircuit in a circuit using a transistor-level simulator, and one or more cells in the subcircuit may need to be sensitized so that the cells are in a desired state when the subcircuit is simulated. An embodiment modifies the subcircuit by inserting analog switches in front of the cells that need to be sensitized, so that the analog switches can be used to apply a sensitization sequence to the cells during the transistor-level simulation. The embodiment can then generate a transistor-level description of the modified subcircuit. Next, the transistor-level description of the subcircuit can be stored, thereby enabling the transistor-level simulator to simulate the subcircuit.
US08091048B2 Method for predicting resist pattern shape, computer readable medium storing program for predicting resist pattern shape, and computer for predicting resist pattern shape
The contour shape of an aerial image formed on a resist by projecting a test pattern onto the resist via a projection optical system is computed. The shape of a resist pattern formed by the exposure using the test pattern and the development process is measured. A correction model indicating the relationship between the amount of characteristic of the contour shape and the amount of correction determined in accordance with the difference between the computed contour shape and the measured shape of the resist pattern is created. The contour shape of an aerial image formed on a resist by projecting an arbitrary pattern onto the resist via the projection optical system is computed. The shape of a resist pattern corresponding to the arbitrary pattern is predicted by correcting the computed contour shape of the aerial image, using the amount of correction given by the correction model in correspondence with the amount of characteristic of the contour shape.
US08091044B2 Filtering the display of files in graphical interfaces
System, computer readable medium, and method for filtering the display of file objects for computer systems. In one aspect, a method comprises displaying a plurality of selectable items responsive to user input, wherein each of the selectable items describes a different filtering criterion and corresponds to a different range of values, and wherein the different ranges of values for the selectable items are based on the file objects present in a file object set that is being filtered for display of the file objects; receiving the user input from a user to at least one selected item of the selectable items to describe one or more filtering criteria for the display of the file objects in the file object set according to the user input and the at least one selected item; wherein the different ranges of values for the selectable items are based on actual ranges of an associated characteristic of the file objects of the file object set and on the distribution of the actual values of the associated characteristic in the file object set, wherein the different ranges are evenly divided between two extreme values that surround at least some of the actual values of the associated characteristic.
US08091041B2 Identifying grouped toolbar icons
A method of identifying grouped toolbar icons. An application program displays a graphical user interface (GUI) that includes multiple toolbar icons. The application iteratively determines whether or not a graphical cursor is in proximity to a first toolbar icon. If the cursor is in proximity to the first icon, the application identifies one or more additional related icons, which are currently displayed and are included in a same pre-defined toolbar icon group as the first icon, and displays a graphical border that surrounds the first icon and the related icons. If the related icons are not adjacent to each other, multiple separate borders are displayed. The application displays a first identification tab in close proximity to the border. The first tab includes a toolbar group name and an icon name of the first icon. The application may also display a second tab that includes descriptive properties of the first icon.
US08091038B1 Adaptive graphical interface
An adaptive graphical interface may include determining a first visual characteristic of a background portion, selecting a second visual characteristic contrasting with the first visual characteristic, and presenting a graphical feature portion, the graphical feature portion being presented over the background portion, and the graphical feature portion having the second visual characteristic.
US08091037B2 Providing an overview of an object
A request is received to display a first object in a graphical user interface (GUI) of a computer system containing several objects having more than one type, some of the several objects being associated with each other. An operation mode setting is accessed. In response to the request, an overview screen is displayed including a first GUI component presenting attributes of the first object, and at least one second GUI component, presenting information from at least a second one of the several objects associated with the first object, and configured to operate in (i) an auto load mode for automatically loading and presenting the information upon display, and (ii) a deferred load mode where the information is loaded and presented upon the user activating the second GUI component. The second GUI component uses one of the auto load mode and the deferred load mode based on the operation mode setting.
US08091027B2 Content playback apparatus, content playback method and storage medium
A content playback apparatus includes: a display section that displays a plurality of indicators associated with a plurality of pieces of content, and a specifier to be used to specify one of the indicators; a playback section that plays back the piece of content associated with the indicator specified by the specifier; a switch section that switches, in accordance with a user's operation, what the specifier specifies to new the indicator; and a playback control section that controls the playback section such that if the user's operation switches, while the piece of content associated with the indicator specified by the specifier is played, what the specifier specifies to next the indicator and the user's subsequent operation switches, within a predetermined period of time from when the previous switch is completed, what the specifier specifies to subsequent the indicator, the playback section keeps playing back the piece of content.
US08091026B2 Methods and apparatuses for processing digital objects
Methods and apparatuses for processing digital objects are described herein. In one embodiment, multiple digital objects are displayed in a first mode, where each of the digital objects is displayed without overlapping. In response to a first input, at least two digital objects are selected and displayed in a second mode in which at least one selected digital object overlaps at least a portion of another selected digital object. In response to a second input, the selected at least two digital objects are redisplayed in the first mode from the second mode. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
US08091024B2 Systems and methods for implementing formulas
Systems and methods are provided for building and implementing formulas. The systems and methods may treat operands in a formula as having a value and a unit type or dimension and may recognize the compatibility of unit types among operands. One embodiment performs automatic error checking of a formula based on the value and dimension of the operands and the expected result. The automatic error checking may be performed to assist a user in defining and building a formula. Another embodiment performs automatic unit conversion based on the value and unit type of the formula's operands. The automatic unit conversion may be performed when applying data to the formula during runtime or execution of an application program.
US08091023B2 Handheld electronic device and associated method enabling spell checking in a text disambiguation environment
An improved handheld electronic device and associated method enable spell checking in a reduced keyboard and disambiguation environment. The improved spell checking routine converts a misspelled word into a canonical version thereof and receives from a dictionary 42 proposed letter for possible acceptance by the spell checking routine. The spell checking routine advantageously maintains states of various spell check algorithms in order to ensure that no letter is accepted that would require an edit distance of more than one from the misspelled word. The improved spell checking routine advantageously reduces unnecessary processor operation by reducing the extent to which certain portions of the dictionary 42 are searched multiple times during a spell checking operation.
US08091022B2 Online learning monitor
Content is transferred from one computer resource to another computer resource by receiving a user-selected first insertion point for placement of verbatim quoted information within a first UI to a destination electronic document file; receiving a user selection of text content to be transferred from a source UI to the first insertion point; copying the text content to a transfer buffer without requiring a user to return to the first UI; recording source reference data items corresponding to the selected text content without requiring the user to return to the first UI; producing in the destination electronic document file a footnote, endnote, or bibliographical entry comprising the reference data items; and generating a human-readable monitor report containing the source reference data items and an identity indicator of the user, wherein background execution prevents knowledge by the user of the monitor report.
US08091021B2 Facilitating adaptive grid-based document layout
A system and methods for facilitating adaptive grid-based document layout. More particularly, the adaptive grid-based document layout system and methods feature a new approach to adaptive grid-based document layout that utilizes a set of adaptive templates that are configurable in a range of different pages sizes and viewing conditions. The templates include various element types and constraint-based relationships that define the layout of elements with reference to viewing conditions under which the document content will be displayed and that define other content properties. Through a layout engine and paginator, the adaptive grid-based document layout system and methods determines a desirable sequence of templates to use for adapting document content. Additionally, the adaptive grid-based document layout system and methods provides a template authoring tool and user interface for interactively drawing and arranging layout elements within an adaptive template.
US08091018B2 Method and system for creating and implementing dynamic graphic media
A computer-implemented method and system for creating and implementing dynamic clip art images in a software module. Clip art images are typically static in nature and cannot be modified by a user. This limitation with conventional clip art images makes them inflexible and inefficient. In contrast, a dynamic clip art image can be used to represent several similar static clip art images. Those elements of the similar static images that are distinct can be represented by dynamic properties that can be customized by a user. Dynamic clip art images can be modified by a user while inserted in an electronic document thereby eliminating the need to locate new static clip art images to replace existing static images in a document.
US08091017B2 Method and apparatus for electronic literary macramé component referencing
An expansion of the construction and organization of the electronic literary macramé (ELM), the knowledge transfer tool (KTT), or any document of similar type to enrich the connections and associations for their readers, providing for manual author- or editor-defined links and directives for hypertext handling and navigation, easy-to-use indexing capabilities, structuring and presentation of information in a visually-organized form such as a table, list, matrix, tree, pyramid, or other two-dimensional arrangement, with all features integrated into an unobtrusive, and enriched referencing mechanism to assist authors, editors and readers of an ELM, KTT, or other electronic document of similar type.
US08091016B2 Visually manipulating instance collections
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for visually manipulating instance collections. Items presenters present data collections along with custom designers for each data element in the data collections. The customer designers also permit data elements in the collection to be edited in situ. Items presenters maintain data elements in a position aware fashion. Thus, data elements can be inserted into (potentially at a specified location) and deleted from an items presenter to corresponding add and delete the data elements from a data collection. Data elements can be visually moved from an items presenter in one root user interface to an items presenter in another root user interface to corresponding move the data elements between corresponding data collections.
US08091013B2 Multi-code LDPC (low density parity check) decoder
Multi-code LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) decoder. Multiple LDPC coded signals can be decoded using hardware provisioned for a minimum requirement needed to decode each of the multiple LDPC coded signals. In embodiments where each LDPC matrix (e.g., employed to decode each LDPC coded signal) includes a common number of non-null sub-matrices, then a same number of memories are employed when decoding each LDPC coded signal. However, those particular memories employed can be different subsets for when decoding each LDPC coded signal. In embodiments where each LDPC code includes a different number of non-null sub-matrices within its respective LDPC matrix, then a different number of memories are employed when decoding each LDPC coded signal. Various degrees of parallelism in decoding can also be employed in which different numbers of bit engines and check engines can be employed when decoding different LDPC coded signals.
US08091008B2 Data read-out circuit in semiconductor memory device and method of data reading in semiconductor memory device
A data read-out circuit is provided with a sense amplifier circuit and a selector. The sense amplifier circuit senses a stored data stored in a memory cell array by using a plurality of reference levels to generate a plurality of read data, respectively. Thus, the sense amplifier circuit outputs the plurality of read data with regard to the stored data. The selector selects a data corresponding to any one of the plurality of read data based on a control signal and outputs the selected data as an output data.
US08091004B2 Inter-packet selective symbol mapping in a joint incremental redundancy and symbol mapping diversity system
An integrated incremental redundancy symbol mapping diversity system for a communication device. The integrated incremental redundancy symbol mapping diversity system includes a transmitter. The transmitter packetizes a retransmission packet according to a modulation scheme in response to a retransmission request from the receiver. The transmitter includes an output packet processor and an inter-packet selective symbol mapper. The output packet processor determines a transmission iteration of a bit segment of the retransmission packet. The inter-packet selective symbol mapper applies a first symbol map pattern to the bit segment based on the transmission iteration of the bit segment and applies a second symbol map pattern to another bit segment of the retransmission packet based on the transmission iteration of the other bit segment. The first symbol map pattern is different from the second symbol map pattern.
US08091003B2 Position detection error correcting method
A position detection error correcting method that corrects position detection errors using a limited storage capacity, by calculating position detection error correction values by four simple arithmetic operations at startup to reduce a startup time delay and consumption of a storage capacity even when a portion containing steep error variations exists. Detection error correction values of a position detector are expressed by a correction function using a periodic function, and correction parameters of the correction values are stored in advance in a non-volatile memory. At startup, these correction parameters are read out, and a position detection error correction value corresponding to each detected position is calculated and stored in a random access memory. The output position detection error correction value detector corresponding to each detected position is read out from the random access memory and a corrected detected position value corrected for the detected position value error is calculated.
US08090999B2 Memory media characterization for development of signal processors
Methods and apparatus utilizing media characterization of memory devices facilitate the development of signal processors for analyzing memory device outputs. Models are developed from capturing output of memory devices of the type utilizing analog signals to communicate data values of two or more bits of information. The models are used to generate signals representative of the expected output of a memory device having an input data pattern. Read channels and/or controllers then process those signals to determine an output data pattern. By comparing the output data pattern to the input data pattern, the accuracy of the signal processing can be gauged.
US08090994B2 System, method, and computer readable media for identifying a log file record in a log file
A system, a method, and a computer readable media for identifying a log file record in a log file are provided. The log file has a plurality of log file records therein. The plurality of log file records has a repeating pattern of log file records. The method includes displaying a first graphical user interface on a display device. The method further includes selecting the log file utilizing the first graphical user interface. The method further includes analyzing the log file to determine the repeating pattern of log file records. The method further includes selecting a first command button on the first graphical user interface that executes an algorithm to analyze additional log file records that were automatically added to the log file by a software program. The additional log file records are associated with the repeating pattern of log file records. The method further includes storing the first log file record in a memory device if a first log file record in the additional log file records has at least one command-related attribute that does not correspond to command-related attributes in the repeating pattern of log file records.
US08090993B2 I/O unit and industrial controller
This invention enables setting of a diagnosis algorithm of a safety device to be easily carried out. A slice I/O unit stores a plurality of diagnosis algorithms each corresponding to a different safety device in an ASIC, and stores specifying information for specifying a diagnosis algorithm to use of the plurality of diagnosis algorithms in a register of the ASIC. The slice I/O unit performs diagnosis of a connected safety device using the diagnosis algorithm specified by the specifying information stored in the register of the plurality of diagnosis algorithms. The diagnosis algorithm to use can be selected by selecting a number, and the like, which is preferable as a setting process at a setting tool device can be facilitated and a human error does not occur.
US08090989B2 System and method for bi-directional debugging of computer
The present invention relates to debugging of computer programs, and in particular to bi-directional debugging.A method of returning to a state in the history of execution of a computer program, said state comprising a set of values of one or more of registers of a processor on which the program is running, working memory space to which the program has access and operating system resources allocated to the program, the method comprising: identifying in machine code representing said program, instances of machine code instructions associated with substantially non-deterministic events; modifying said program machine code to execute a program instrumentation set of machine code instructions to handle said substantially non-deterministic events; executing said modified program machine code, storing a time series of said states during said executing; restoring a said stored state; and executing said modified program machine code forward in time starting at said restored state to return to said state in said program history of execution.
US08090988B2 Saving information to flash memory during power failure
An embodiment is a method and apparatus to save data during power failure. A power supply generator generates operating voltages to a circuit from a generator supply source. A power monitor monitors a normal supply voltage and a backup supply voltage to provide a normal supply voltage to the generator supply source in a normal mode and to provide a backup supply voltage to the generator supply source in a power failure mode. A data transfer circuit transfers data from a volatile memory in the circuit to a non-volatile memory during the power failure mode.
US08090987B2 Imaging apparatus having automatic backup function and method for controlling the same
An imaging apparatus having an automatic backup function and a method for controlling the same are disclosed which can more securely store particular data, considered to be important by the user, in a memory of the imaging apparatus, and can automatically read out the particular data. The imaging apparatus includes a tuner which receives data containing at least one of audio data and video data, a main storage unit which stores data containing at least one of audio data and video data, and a controller which determines backup data, to be stored in a backup storage unit, from the data stored in the main storage unit, copies data determined as the backup data, and stores the copied data in the backup storage unit, whereby the imaging apparatus has an automatic data backup function.
US08090982B2 Multiprocessor system enabling controlling with specific processor under abnormal operation and control method thereof
A multiprocessor system is disclosed. The multiprocessor system includes plural processor cores to which control to be performed is allocated. The multiprocessor system includes a monitoring processor which detects an abnormal operation that has occurred in a specific processor core to which control having a higher priority order than control to be allocated to processor cores other than the specific processor core is allocated. When the monitoring processor detects the abnormal operation in the specific processor core, the monitoring processor allocates the control having the higher priority order to one of the processor cores other than the specific processor core.
US08090981B1 Auto-configuration of RAID systems
A computer-implemented method of automatically configuring a platform of storage devices includes querying components of the platform to gather information about the capability of the platform, locating one or more storage devices within the platform, automatically determining one or more RAID levels that are supported by the platform, and automatically configuring one or more storage devices within the platform as a RAID system having a particular RAID level, where the particular RAID level is selected based on the capability of the platform.
US08090980B2 System, method, and computer program product for providing data redundancy in a plurality of storage devices
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for providing data redundancy in a plurality of storage devices. In operation, storage commands are received for providing data redundancy in accordance with a first data redundancy scheme. Additionally, the storage commands are translated for providing the data redundancy in accordance with a second data redundancy scheme. Furthermore, the translated storage commands are outputted for providing the data redundancy in a plurality of storage devices.
US08090979B2 Information system and data transfer method
Availability of an information system including a storage apparatus and a computer is improved. First and second storage apparatuses execute remote copy of copying data written into a first primary volume from the computer to a second primary volume, at least one of the first and second storage apparatuses executes local copy of copying the data written into the first or second primary volume in a self-storage apparatus to the corresponding first or second secondary volume, and the computer switches the destination of a write request of the data from the first storage apparatus to the second storage apparatus in case of a failure occurring in the first storage apparatus.
US08090977B2 Performing redundant memory hopping
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for receiving an indication of a loss of redundancy with respect to a pair of mirrored memory regions of a partially redundant memory system, determining new mirrored memory regions, and dynamically migrating information stored in the original mirrored memory regions to the new mirrored memory regions. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08090975B2 Recovery server for recovering managed server
When the boot monitoring unit receives, from a management server, a first boot response for a first boot request from a NIC1 of a managed server, a boot monitoring unit stores a receiving time of the first boot response. When the boot monitoring unit receives a second boot request from a NIC2 of the managed server, and when a predetermined time has not elapsed from the receiving time, the boot monitoring unit determines that the management server is normal, and transmits an NOP program to the managed server. When the predetermined time has elapsed from the receiving time, the boot monitoring unit determines that the management server is stopped, and transmits a recovering program to the managed server.
US08090974B1 State machine controlled dynamic distributed computing
A computer readable storage medium with executable instructions specifies the execution of a state machine operating across a set of computing nodes in a distributed computing system. The executable instructions execute a set of operators, where the execution of each operator is under the control of a state machine that periodically invokes pause control states to pause the execution of an operator in response to a violation of a service level agreement specifying an operating condition threshold within the distributed computing system. Partitions of input data are formed that are worked on independently within the distributed computing system. A set of data batches associated with the input data is processed. Data partition control states to process the partitions associated with the set of data batches are specified. Key control states to process a set of keys associated with a data partition of the partitions are defined.
US08090971B2 Data recovery architecture (CDR) for low-voltage differential signaling (LVDS) video transceiver applications
The present invention discloses data recovery architecture (CDR) to improve a multi-link system's tolerance to delay mismatches (or skewing effect) in its different links. The architecture is entirely digital and usable in any multi-link transceiver implementation that makes use of a separate clock link and requires timing synchronization between the different data links.
US08090970B2 Apparatus and method for playing multimedia data
A multimedia data reproducing device is provided which includes: a codec converting digital data into an analog signal by a predetermined method and reproducing the analog signal; and a control unit including a core generating a reproduction block by decoding multimedia data and outputting the generated reproduction block to a main memory in an activated state and an interface transmitting the reproduction block stored in the main memory as the digital data to the codec and transmitting the multimedia data stored in an auxiliary memory to the core in an activated state. Accordingly, it is possible to efficiently reproduce multimedia data to reduce the power consumption of a battery by alternately turning on and off a power source of blocks other than the interface in the control unit periodically or depending on a predetermined situation.
US08090969B2 Method and apparatus for managing power consumption relating to a differential serial communication link
A circuit includes a primary transceiver, a secondary transceiver, and control logic. The primary transceiver communicates information via a primary communication link. The secondary transceiver communicates information via a secondary communication link. The control logic is operatively coupled to the primary and secondary transceivers. The control logic selectively powers down the primary transceiver based on primary communication link traffic trigger information and causes communication using the secondary transceiver instead of the primary transceiver based on the primary communication link traffic trigger information.
US08090968B2 Apparatus and method for power management control
A power management control apparatus including a memory unit configured to store a program for disabling a previously determined Link power management state when a system enters a specific operating state and for enabling the disabled Link power management state when the system is resumed, a processor configured to access the memory unit and to execute the program, and a control unit connected to the processor and the memory unit and configured to manage Link power based on a result of executing the program.
US08090966B2 Power management method for a multi-microprocessor system
A power management method for a multi-microprocessor system is provided. The multi-microprocessor system comprises a first microprocessor and a second microprocessor. The power management method comprises steps of receiving a power down instruction; transmitting a power down notice signal to the first microprocessor from the second microprocessor, transmitting a reply signal from the first microprocessor to the second microprocessor in response to the power down notice signal, and turning off power of the first microprocessor by the second microprocessor.
US08090963B2 Automated power management of a peripheral device
Based on bounds of a period of reduced operation for a base device, a base device generates a power management message for transmission to a peripheral device. In the power management message, the base device inserts bounds of a period of reduced operation for the peripheral device. As a result, the periods of reduced operation conserve battery power in both devices and the two devices may reestablish a communications channel upon reaching the end of the period of reduced operation and resuming normal operations.
US08090962B2 System and method for protecting assets using wide area network connection
A system, method, and program product is provided that detects whether a network adapter has been removed from a computer system. If the network adapter, such as a wireless network adapter, has been removed from the computer system, then a tamper evident indicator (e.g., bit) is set in a nonvolatile memory area of the computer system. In addition, a hard drive password is set to a different password according to a hard drive password policy. The hard drive password controls access to files stored on the hard drive. In one embodiment, the power-on password is also changed to a new password so that the user has to enter the new power-on password when initializing the computer system in order to access the files stored on the computer system.
US08090945B2 Systems and methods for multi-factor remote user authentication
A multi-factor remote user authentication card-device has innovative features that enable this one card-device itself to function and accomplish a multi-factor remote user authentication of “what you know”, “what you have”, “where you are” and “what you are”, to a network. In one embodiments of the card-device, one card-device enables two-factor authentication of “what you have” and “what you are”. In another embodiment, one card-device enables two-factor authentication of “what you know” and “what you have”. In yet another embodiment, one card-device enables three-factor authentication of “what you know”, “what you have”, and “what you are”. In yet another embodiment, one card-device enables four-factor authentication of “what you know”, “what you have”, “where you are”, and “what you are”. The authentication logic dynamically facilitates the use of multi-factor authentication so that it dynamically adjusts what factors are applicable for specific security application enabling a universal remote authentication device.
US08090942B2 Method and system for asymmetrically encrypting .ZIP files
The present invention provides a method of integrating existing strong encryption methods into the processing of a .ZIP file to provide a highly secure data container which provides flexibility in the use of symmetric and asymmetric encryption technology. The present invention adapts the well established .ZIP file format to support higher levels of security and multiple methods of data encryption and key management, thereby producing a highly secure and flexible digital container for electronically storing and transferring confidential data.
US08090938B2 Methods and systems for running multiple operating systems in a single mobile device
Methods and systems for running multiple operating systems in a single embedded or mobile device (include PDA, cellular phone and other devices) are disclosed. The invention allows a mobile device that normally can only run a single operating system to run another operating system while preserving the state and data of the original operating system. Guest OS is packaged into special format recognizable by the host OS that still can be executed in place by the system. The Methods include: Change the memory protection bits for the original OS; Fake a reduced physical memory space for guest OS; Use special memory device driver to claim memories of host OS; Backup whole image of the current OS and data to external memory card.
US08090936B2 Systems and methods for accelerated loading of operating systems and application programs
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing accelerated loading of operating system and application programs. In one aspect, a method for providing accelerated loading of an operating system comprises the steps of: maintaining a list of boot data; preloading the boot data upon initialization of the computer system; and servicing requests for boot data from the computer system using the preloaded boot data. In a preferred embodiment, the boot data is retrieved from a boot device and stored in a cache memory device. In another aspect, a method for accelerated loading of an operating system comprises updating the list of boot data during the boot process, wherein updating comprises adding to the list any boot data requested by the computer system not previously stored in the list and/or removing from the list any boot data previously stored in the list and not requested by the computer system.
US08090933B2 Methods computer program products and systems for unifying program event recording for branches and stores in the same dataflow
The present invention relates to a method for the unification of PER branch and PER store operations within the same dataflow. The method comprises determining a PER range, the PER range comprising a storage area defined by a designated storage starting area and a designated storage ending area, wherein the storage starting area is designated by a value of the contents of a first control register and the storage ending area is designated by a value of the contents of a second control register. The method also comprises retrieving register field content values that are stored at a plurality of registers, wherein the retrieved content values comprises a length field content value, and setting the length field content value to zero for a PER branch instruction, thereby enabling a PER branch instruction to performed similarly to a PER storage instruction.
US08090931B2 Microprocessor with fused store address/store data microinstruction
A microprocessor includes an instruction translator that translates PUSHF, POP, and MOVSB x86 macroinstructions into multiple microinstructions that include a fused store microinstruction. For PUSHF, first and second microinstructions moves the x86 EFLAGS register into and mask off bits in a temporary register, and the fused store microinstruction stores it to a memory location. For POP, a first microinstruction loads a first memory location value into a temporary register and the fused store microinstruction stores it to the second memory location. For MOVSB, the first microinstruction loads a first memory location operand into a temporary register and the fused store microinstruction stores it to a second memory location. A reorder buffer receives the fused store microinstruction into exactly one entry. In response to the fused store microinstruction, an instruction dispatcher dispatches store address and store data microinstructions, neither of which occupies a reorder buffer entry, to different respective execution units.
US08090930B2 Method and circuits for early detection of a full queue
In a pipelined computer architecture in which instructions may be removed from the instruction queue out of sequence, instruction queue status at a cycle K is determined by adding together the number of invalid instructions or free rows in the queue during cycle K−2, the number of instructions issued for cycle K−1 and the number of instructions speculatively issued in cycle K−1 that have produced a cache hit, and subtracting from the sum the number of instructions enqueued for cycle K−1. The result indicates the number of invalid instructions in the queue cycle K. The number of invalid entries instructions, the number of issued instructions, and the number of enqueued instructions are preferably represented as flat vectors, so that adding is performed by shifting in one direction, while subtracting is performed by shifting in the opposite direction. The result is compared with either the number of instructions to be enqueued in the present cycle, which number is encoded, or with a predetermined value. A stall signal is generated if the indicative value is less than the encoded number or the predetermined value.
US08090927B2 Method and system for executing applicatons, storage medium controller and storage device
An application executing method for automatically executing an application stored in a storage unit of an external storage device in an operating system (OS) of a computer host is provided. The method includes dividing the storage unit into a first partition and a second partition; emulating the first partition as compact disc-read only memory (CR-ROM); storing a switch program in the first partition; and storing the application in the second partition. The method also includes providing only the first partition to be accessed by the OS and automatically executing the switch program by the OS to decouple and re-couple the external storage device to the computer host. Additionally, the method further includes providing only the second partition to be accessed by the OS and executing the application when the external storage device is re-coupled to the computer host.
US08090915B2 Packet transmission control apparatus and method
A packet transmission control apparatus includes a plurality of controllers, an arbitrator, a BUSY control circuit, and a memory. The controller controls a transmission of a packet to an interface and manages a request for data to a memory and a reception of data from the memory. The arbitrator selects a controller to be used from among the plurality of controllers. The BUSY control circuit recognizes a BUSY state of a control unit at destination of a packet. The memory stores data to be requested.
US08090909B2 Method and system for distributed raid implementation
Embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed provide a distributed RAID system comprising a set of data banks. More particularly, in certain embodiments of a distributed RAID system each data bank has a set of associated storage media and executes a similar distributed RAID application. The distributed RAID applications on each of the data banks coordinate among themselves to distribute and control data flow associated with implementing a level of RAID in conjunction with data stored on the associated storage media of the data banks.
US08090906B1 Dynamic processor bandwidth allocation in response to environmental conditions
Servo-related tasks are performed at a first processor in a disk drive. A signal indicative of an environmental condition is received at the first processor, and code associated with the environmental condition is identified based at least in part on the signal. A second processor in the disk drive is caused to execute the code associated with the environmental condition, and a responsive task is performed at the first processor based at least in part on the executed code associated with the environmental condition.
US08090905B2 System, method, and computer program product for converting logical block address de-allocation information in a first format to a second format
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for converting logical block address de-allocation information in a first format to a second format. In use, logical block address de-allocation information is received in a first format associated with a first protocol. Additionally, the logical block address de-allocation information in the first format is converted to a second format associated with a second protocol.
US08090902B1 Disk drive adjusting command execution in response to control circuitry die temperature
A disk drive is disclosed comprising a disk having a plurality of tracks, wherein each track comprises a plurality of data sectors. The disk drive further comprises a head actuated over the disk, and control circuitry fabricated on a die. A plurality of disk access commands are received from a host and stored in a command queue, wherein each disk access command identifies at least one data sector. A temperature of the die is determined, and a first disk access command is selected from the command queue in response to the die temperature.
US08090897B2 System and method for simulating an aspect of a memory circuit
A memory subsystem is provided including an interface circuit adapted for coupling with a plurality of memory circuits and a system. The interface circuit is operable to interface the memory circuits and the system for emulating at least one memory circuit with at least one aspect that is different from at least one aspect of at least one of the plurality of memory circuits. Such aspect includes a signal, a capacity, a timing, and/or a logical interface.
US08090894B1 Architectures for supporting communication and access between multiple host devices and one or more common functions
A controller circuit can provide communication paths between multiple host devices and at least one function interface (I/F), where a function I/F can allow access to a predetermined circuit function. The controller circuit can include an endpoint buffer circuit having a plurality of storage locations configurable as endpoints according to a predetermined data transmission protocol and a data switching circuit coupled to the endpoint point buffer circuit. The data switching circuit is configurable to provide communication paths that enable a first host I/F and a second host I/F to access at least a same function I/F, and enable the first and second host I/Fs to communicate with one another.
US08090892B2 Ordered queue and methods therefor
A device receives a first request from a requesting device for first information that is stored at contiguous address locations beginning at a first address. A plurality of spawned requests are generated that each request a different portion of the first information. A table location is allocated to each one of the plurality of requests, wherein the relative location of each allocated table location is indicative of an order that the information from each spawned request is to be returned to the requesting device relative to the information from each other spawned request.
US08090884B2 Apparatus and method for interfacing between A/V system and portable device
An interface apparatus and method for transmission and reception of a control signal and a digital stream between an audio/video (A/V) system and a digital data recording and/or reproducing device are provided. The device for recording and/or reproducing digital data includes: a storage unit storing digital data encoded in a predetermined format; a decoder unit decoding digital data stored in the storage unit; an interface unit transmitting the decoded data to an external device; and a control unit controlling the storage unit, the decoder unit, and the interface unit.
US08090883B2 Method, system and computer program product for enhanced shared store buffer management scheme with limited resources for optimized performance
The exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a storage buffer management scheme for I/O store buffers. Specifically, the storage buffer management system as described within the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is configured to comprise storage buffers that have the capability to efficiently support 128 byte or 256 byte I/O data transmission lines. The presently implemented storage buffer management scheme enables for a limited number of store buffers to be associated with a fixed number of storage state machines (i.e., queue positions) and thereafter the allowing for the matched pairs to be allocated in order to achieve maximum store throughput for varying combinations of store sizes of 128 and 256 bytes.
US08090882B2 Program, control device and control system for determining a terminal peripheral device
In order to provide a system in which a single driver can totally control each periphery, there is provided a peripheral determination program executable on a main device installing the driver thereon. The peripheral determination program has a set of instructions including: acquiring device information assigned to each of a plurality of peripheral devices connected to the computer, the driver controlling operations of the plurality of peripheral devices, the device information indicating a model of each of the plurality of peripheral devices; extracting peripheral devices applicable to the driver out of the plurality of peripheral devices, the applicable peripheral devices being capable of executing all settings designated by the driver; selecting one peripheral device from the applicable peripheral devices; and determining the selected applicable peripheral device to be a terminal peripheral device.
US08090881B1 Method and system for minimizing unnecessary topology discovery operations by managing physical layer state change notifications in storage systems
Method and system is provided where PHY state change (PHY CHANGE) notifications from one or more PHYs in a storage infrastructure are monitored as a potential error condition. The rate of PHY CHANGE notifications is monitored to determine if the rate of PHY CHANGE notifications may cause a loss of service or degrade I/O performance. An excessive rate of PHY CHANGE notification that may cause a loss of service is detected by comparing a current PHY CHANGE count with a burst threshold value. The current PHY CHANGE count is also compared to an operational threshold value to detect if the rate of PHY CHANGE notification may result in degradation of overall I/O performance. If the PHY CHANGE count for a PHY equals or exceeds the burst threshold value or the operational threshold value, then the PHY is disabled.
US08090876B2 Message handling by a wrapper connected between a kernel and a core
A wrapper operates to store data relating to messages received from a kernel such that kernel-specific data or information is not passed to a module core. The wrapper on receiving data from the module core uses the data stored in the relevant part of the memory to provide the data or information required by the kernel to handle the message. On receiving a message, the kernel begins to process it. At a certain point the wrapper intercepts the message and creates a SCSI data message and a PLUT element comprising a kernel pointer, a core pointer, and a reference counter. The kernel pointer is provided by the kernel and identifies a memory location where implementation-specific information pertaining to the message, pointers to raw data and a SCSI-formatted command descriptor block resides. The reference counter defines the number of times a message will be processed within the core before the related memory can be reused. The wrapper re-formats data and references the result by the core pointer.
US08090867B2 Telecommunication and multimedia management method and apparatus
An improved communication method for sending media between a sending node and receiving node during a conversation. When network bandwidth is insufficient to transmit a full bit rate representation of time-sensitive media, then a reduced bit rate representation of the media is transmitted for the purpose of increasing the ability of the recipient to review the media upon receipt and continue the conversation in the real-time mode when the bandwidth on the network is insufficient to support the transmission of the full bit rate representation. Media that is ascertained as not time-sensitive on the other hand is transmitted when bandwidth in excess of what is needed for time-sensitive media becomes available. When the media ascertained as not time-sensitive is transmitted, the rate of transmission is adjusted at the sending node based on network conditions, the adjusted rate of transmission being set for network efficiency and reliable delivery of the media ascertained as not time-sensitive relative to the timeliness of the delivery of the media ascertained as time-sensitive.
US08090866B1 TCP proxy connection management in a gigabit environment
The present invention describes a method and apparatus to effectively manage data buffers for a client and a server connection in a multiple connection environment. The TCP processes of servers and clients are merged into an independent TCP process in a TCP ‘proxy’ server. The TCP proxy server includes a control unit and a data switching unit (the proxy application). The TCP proxy server terminates the client TCP connection and initiates a separate TCP connection with the server. The data switching unit binds the two individual connections. The TCP proxy server portrays the actual server TCP. The control unit in the TCP proxy server manages data buffers, control memory and supports multiple connections. The control unit ‘pushes’ the data into the buffers by monitoring the use of the buffers. The control unit does not wait for data requests from the data switching unit thus, eliminating the overhead of data request messages.
US08090863B2 Partial object distribution in content delivery network
Techniques for the distribution of content objects in a content delivery network (CDN) are disclosed. In one embodiment, a CDN distribution server detects the availability of a content object and determines whether the content object is a candidate for distribution. The distribution server may detect the availability of the content object in response to a provider making new or updated content available at a content site or a location within the CDN. The distribution server obtains identifying information for a candidate content object and determines a select portion of the content object to be distributed within the CDN. The select portion can be a predetermined number of bytes located at a predetermined position in the content object, the size and location of which may be determined according to content-specific mapping data. The distribution server may push the select portion of the content object to one or more groups of CDN edge servers absent an end-user request.
US08090860B2 Origin request with peer fulfillment
A method, apparatus and system for data transfer is disclosed. For example, settings from multiple entities arranged in a multi-tier control plane are used to set data transfer policies. The policies are use to govern data transfers such as between end users or from an origin server.
US08090859B2 Decoupling TCP/IP processing in system area networks with call filtering
Proxy nodes perform TCP/IP processing on behalf of application nodes, utilize lightweight protocols to communicate with application nodes, and communicate with network nodes and network clients using Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
US08090858B2 Systems and methods for encapsulation based session initiation protocol through network address translation
Provided are improved SIP communication systems and methods for traversing firewalls, NATs, and ALGs. An encapsulation protocol is used to preserve the original SIP message by encapsulating the original SIP message in visible encapsulation protocol of layers 4+. An encapsulated SIP message is decapsulated after transparently traversing a firewall, NAT, and/or ALG.
US08090854B2 Service providing method
The frequency of reading, by users, Web sites managed by Web masters is increased. A server computer of a service provider providing a variety of services can be accessed from one of the Web sites of registered Webmasters. The server computer registers a client who has accessed it through one of the Web sites. Only when the registered client accesses the service provider through the Web site, the client can receive any one of the services.
US08090851B2 Method and system for problem determination in distributed enterprise applications
A method, system and computer program are provided for problem determination in an enterprise computer system in a distributed environment. Information is obtained regarding the enterprise applications, and high-level information is presented to a user, with one or more prompts are provided to the user for more detailed information. In response to a request from a user for more detailed information about the application, more detailed information is provided to the user. Several levels of more detailed information about applications, including information as to individual threads, is available. The problem determination also includes receiving instructions from an administrator to establish an account for a user, associating one or more servers with the account, and providing access to the corresponding user only to the associated servers. Searches may be conducted for strings and requests, and identified strings and requests may be sorted by a variety of criteria.
US08090850B2 Methods, systems, and computer readable media for regulating network address translator (NAT) and firewall pinhole preservation traffic in a session initiation protocol (SIP) network
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for regulating pinhole preservation traffic generated or received by firewall or network address translator (NAT) session initiation protocol (SIP) user agent clients (UACs) are disclosed. One method includes, maintaining a list of contact information for a plurality of SIP UACs registering from behind at least one of a firewall and a NAT. The method further includes iterating through the list to generate SIP messages to the different UACs such that the SIP messages to the different UACs are spaced at substantially regular intervals with respect to each other, wherein the SIP messages to the different UACs trigger responses from the UACs such that the responses are spaced at substantially regular intervals with respect each other.
US08090849B2 Information exchange between a handheld device and another computer system using an exchange manager and uniform resource locator (URL) strings
A method and electronic system for exchanging data between a handheld device and another computer system using universal resource locator (URL) strings. With respect to sending information from the handheld, an application may define a URL string that may indicate 1) a transport mechanism and 2) a destination for the information. Exemplary transport mechanism strings include: IRODEX:// (infrared); BTOBEX:// (radio frequency Bluetooth); SMS://; SMTP:// (email); SYNC:// (synchronization); HTTP:// (Internet); FTP:// (file transport protocol); etc. Information and the associated URL string is forwarded from the application to an exchange manager API. The exchange manager API is connected to a plurality of exchange library APIs, one for each supported transport mechanism. If no transport mechanism is defined, the user is asked to define one. If no destination is specified, the user is asked to define one. The exchange manager then provides the required communication using the specified URL string. On receiving information, the URL can define its source. If none is given, the exchange manager requests from the user a specific application and verifies the addition of the information to the database associated with the application. When URL strings are fully defined, the communication of information can be somewhat transparent to the user. The handheld device can be a palmtop computer system.
US08090845B2 Apparatus and method for firewall traversal
An apparatus and method for traversing a network address translation/firewall device to maintain a registration between first and second devices separated by the firewall device are provided. In one example, the method includes intercepting a registration message from the first device to the second device. A determination is made based on a first timeout period defined by the second device as to whether it is time to renew the first device's registration. If it is time to renew the first device's registration, the registration message is forwarded to the second device. A response message that includes the first timeout period is intercepted, and the first timeout period is replaced with a second timeout period based on a binding lifetime of the firewall device before forwarding the response message to the first device.
US08090843B2 Creating a public identity for an entity on a network
A system is disclosed for establishing a public identity for an entity on a private network. In one embodiment, a first entity can initiate a request to create a binding of a public address to a private address for itself. The existence of this public address for the first entity can be made known so that other entities can use the public address to communicate with the first entity. The present invention allows entities outside of a private network to initiate communication with an entity inside a private network.
US08090838B2 Shell operation flow change
Embodiments described herein are based on the principle that shells execute commands as units of characters. Accordingly, embodiments herein provide also provide for some special cases of asynchronous control signals that change the shell operation flow. For example, signal messages may be used to terminate, pause, resume, or otherwise modify the execution of a command. In other words, if a user wishes to change the execution state of a command, a client can create a signal message and send such message to the shell processor, which can take the appropriate action as desired. Note that by modeling the control or signal commands as discrete messages (as well as other embodiments modeled and described herein), such commands are not mistakenly executed on a command as is the case for current protocols that use a character-by-character transmission.
US08090837B2 Communication in multiprocessor using proxy sockets
Systems and methods for implementing communication in a multiprocessor are disclosed. In one exemplary implementation a first processor receives a request to provide a communication resource for an application executing on the first processor to communicate with a remote application. In response to the communication request, the first processor opens a communication resource on a second processor, and manages communication operations between the application executing on the first processor and the remote application using the communication resource on the second processor.
US08090836B1 TCP connection migration
A method is provided for migrating a connection between two computing nodes of a computing center. The method includes establishing the connection between a remote application and a local application on a first computing node, pausing the local application, restoring the local application to a second computing node, and reestablishing the connection between the remote application and the local application on the second computing node. A connection filter on the first computing node can maintain connections while the local application is paused. An application scheduler routine can cause the application to be restored on the second computing node where a second connection filter obtains connection information and reestablishes the connection to the remote application.
US08090834B2 System and method for optimizing server resources while providing interaction with documents accessible through the server
A system and method for optimizing server resources while providing interaction with documents accessible through the server. The system allows a user to open and interact with a document without opening a session. Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a computer-implemented method having steps for determining whether a document is static in response to a request to open the document, and opening the document in a sessionless mode when the document is static. Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to a computer-implemented method having steps for determining whether a trigger has occurred and transitioning to a session mode for the document when a trigger has occurred.
US08090832B1 Method and apparatus for allocating network protocol operation resources
A system and method for offloading network processes from main processors of a storage system and performing them on parallel processing modules. Embodiments of the present invention allocate resources such as memory and/or buffers to particular connections between various storage operating system processes or between storage operating system processes and a network interface. Connections are identified by a connection identifier (CID) and are assigned particular buffers according to parameters such as buffer availability, connection priority, and/or maximum allocation thresholds. A connection associated with a CID is guaranteed access to a certain number of dedicated buffers. Deadlock is avoided even when an operating system process associated with a different CID attempts to exhaust available memory and/or buffers because such processes will only have access to their own allocated resources.
US08090831B2 Consistent policy control of objects in a service oriented architecture
A method for the consistent control of policies assigned to objects of a service oriented architecture is disclosed. Each policy may include one or more assertions, and the method may include identifying one or more operational dependencies between at least two SOA objects, analyzing the assigned policies of the at least two SOA objects to determine any inconsistency, and issuing a warning to a user if an inconsistency has been determined.
US08090824B2 Gateway data proxy for embedded health management systems
A gateway data proxy is a system which provides the capabilities to provide and obtain the customized data across multiple platforms to facilitate the remote operations of embedded health management systems (EHMS). The system allows the collaborative works taken place among the EHMS from diagnostics, prognostics, maintenance, to maintenance history tracking. Depending on deployment needs, the system can operate as stand-alone systems or as an integrated module of the EHMS. As part of operation, the system provides logical network connection and be the broker of data between EHMS instances and between EHMS with onboard systems and other service applications.
US08090821B2 Real-time notification of presence changes
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for providing presence and availability status information of a first user to a second user. The system includes a presence availability server for storing presence and availability status information of the first user. The presence availability server is configured to detect a change in the presence and availability status of the first user. The presence availability server also informs a notification server of a change in the presence and availability status of the first user. The notification server sends a notification message to a communication device of the second user. The notification message contains current presence and availability status information of the first user. Other systems and methods are also provided.
US08090820B2 Distributed traffic analysis
A distributed system for analyzing traffic flow on a communications network architecture where a computer provides information over a data network to a concentrator, which provides a bridge between the computer and the end user terminals. The interface between the terminals and the concentrator is provided through access points for each workstation. The system to analyze the traffic is distributed into three components that perform, respectively, classification of the traffic flow, processing of the results of the classification, and handling of the processed results.
US08090815B2 Method and system for network configuration
Methods and systems have been provided for pushing critical configuration to a set of network devices. According to various embodiments of the invention, a Network Management Station (NMS) creates a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) context and an SNMP view. Additionally, the NMS specifies a network configuration and a set time period. The NMS pushes the network configuration to the set of network devices. The set of devices apply the network configuration after the set time period.
US08090814B2 Method for determining distribution of a shared resource among a plurality of nodes in a network
A method determining distribution of a shared resource among nodes in a network includes: (a) identifying each node according to a function performed by the node; brokers collecting messages from the nodes and disseminating messages among the nodes; publishers originating messages for transmission via the network; subscribers receiving messages transmitted via the network; (b) in no particular order: (1) identifying a need for each node; and (2) identifying the shared resource available for distribution; (c) communicating the shared resource available for distribution within the network to the brokers; and (d) operating each broker to: (1) coordinate communication with all other brokers and individually apply an algorithm to optimally allocate the shared resource among the brokers; or (2) communicate with a central facility coupled with each broker while the central facility applies an algorithm to optimally allocate the shared resource among the brokers.
US08090809B2 Role grouping
Techniques to assign nodes in a network to groups of nodes includes grouping nodes on a network into groups based on host connection set data by identifying bi-connected components in the host connection set data; and merging groups with similar connection habits as determined by examining the host connection set data into larger groups.
US08090807B2 Home code setting method for home network system
The present invention discloses a home code setting method for a home network system which can overcome a spatial installation limit and improve reliability of network connection. The home code setting method for the home network system includes the steps of connecting a network server to one network, searching for a network at a network device, and when one network is searched for in the search step, performing, at the network device, connection or registration to the network server connected to the network.
US08090806B1 Two-stage network device configuration process
A method and apparatus for modifying the configuration of a network device, such as a router, using a two-stage configuration model is provided. A first request for a change in configuration of a network device is received. Configuration data that describes the change in configuration of the network device is stored in a buffer. A second request to modify the current operational state of the network device to reflect the configuration data stored in the buffer is received. An exclusive lock on the network device is obtained. The current operational state of the network device is modified to reflect the configuration data stored in the buffer. Multiple users may modify the network device without interfering with one another because conflicts are avoided through use of an exclusive lock. Requests of different management operations may be contained within XML documents that are transmitted from the client to the network device.
US08090800B2 Method and system for automated web page accessibility coding standards analysis
A method and system for automated accessibility checking of Web pages. The method includes the step of accessing a Web page using a parser to generate data corresponding to the components of the Web page. The data is analyzed using an analysis engine to determine compliance of the components of the Web page with a set of accessibility standards. The results of the analysis performed by the analysis engine are subsequently stored. The results are then provided to indicate a degree of compliance with the set of accessibility standards. The method for automated accessibility checking can be implemented as a hosted application residing on a network connected server.