| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08142698B2 |
Method for reducing a surface glossiness of an organopolysiloxane-cured article
A method of reducing a surface glossiness of an organopolysiloxane-cured article is provided. The method comprises preparing the liquid organopolysiloxane composition for matting comprising: (A) 100 parts by weight of a thermosetting liquid organopolysiloxane composition having a specific gravity larger than the component (B), and (B) 0.1 to 100 parts by weight of a hollow filler having a melting point of at least 150° C., and a particle size of up to 200 μm, casting the liquid organopolysiloxane composition as a potting material or coating material; and curing the liquid organopolysiloxane composition at a temperature of 10 to 160 C for 30 to 180 minutes, whereby the hollow filler floats to the surface of the organopolysiloxane and forms surface irregularities on the surface of the cured article during curing to provide a surface glossiness of up to 40 in a cured article having a matted surface. |
| US08142697B2 |
Low density oriented polymer composition with inert inorganic filler
An oriented polymer composition containing thirty to 95 weight-percent inert inorganic filler and a continuous phase of at least one orientable polymer contains void spaces due to cavitation and has a density of less than 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter, a flexural modulus of 1.4 gigapascals or more, cross section dimensions all greater than 1.5 millimeters, a delamination force value of 44.5 Newtons (ten pounds force) or more and little or no blowing agent. |
| US08142695B2 |
Foam of polymers
The disclosure pertains to foam of polymers, which can be made by a method for making a polymer foam comprising vacuum or gas-filled compartments by making a solution of 1 to 20% by weight of a polymer in a solvent; adding particles to the a polymer solution; solidifying the polymer wherein the particles are contained by heating, cooling, ageing, or coagulating to obtain a polymer foam or matrix comprising the particles, and obtaining from the polymer matrix the polymer foam containing the compartments; and optionally washing, drying, and/or heating the polymer foam. |
| US08142688B2 |
Conductivity variable composition, conductivity variable laminated body, and conductive pattern formed body
The present disclosure provides a conductive pattern formed body with a conductive pattern formed efficiently and highly precisely in a simple process, a conductivity variable laminated body used for formation of the conductive pattern, and the like. The disclosure provides a conductivity variable composition characterized by containing insulating particle including a conductive inorganic material and an organic material adhered on the circumference of the conductive inorganic material, and a photocatalyst. |
| US08142684B2 |
Method of manufacturing blue silicate phosphor, and blue silicate phosphor and light-emitting device
The present invention provides a method of manufacturing a blue silicate phosphor having high luminance and a chromaticity y comparable to or lower than that of BAM:Eu. The present invention is a method of manufacturing a blue silicate phosphor represented by the general formula aAO.bEuO.(Mg1−w,Znw)O.cSiO2.dCaCl2, where A is at least one selected from Sr, Ba and Ca, and 2.970≦a≦3.500, 0.006≦b≦0.030, 1.900≦c≦2.100, 0≦d≦0.05, and 0≦w≦1 are satisfied. In this manufacturing method, heat treatment is carried out in a gas atmosphere having an oxygen partial pressure of 1×10−15.5 atm to 1×10−10 atm at a temperature of 1200° C. to 1400° C. |
| US08142682B2 |
Cholesteric multi-layers
The invention discloses a multilayer of cholesteric liquid crystal polymer (CLCP), wherein at least two layers of CLCP differing in at least one optical property are arranged on top of each other, characterized in that said at least two layers are chemically inter-layer cross-linked through the polymer network, such as to form a mechanically unique solid body which can be comminuted to pigment without deterioration of its inner structure, and which has an abrupt change of cholesteric liquid crystal pitch at the interface between said at least two layers of cholesteric liquid crystal polymer. Corresponding pigments, coating compositions and there use in security and decorative printing and coating applications are disclosed as well. |
| US08142680B2 |
Compositions that can be used as refrigerants
The invention relates to compositions that can be used as refrigerants. More specifically, the invention relates to compositions having a very low contribution to the greenhouse effect, which can be used in the cooling and production of conditioned air. The GWP of the inventive compositions is preferably at most equal to 150. |
| US08142677B2 |
Piezoelectric ceramic composition
A piezoelectric ceramic composition excellent in all of the electric property Qmax, heat resisting properties and temperature characteristics of oscillation frequencies is provided. The piezoelectric ceramic composition comprises a phase mainly comprising lead zirconate titanate having a perovskite structure and an Al-containing phase. In the piezoelectric ceramic composition, the main component preferably comprises Mn and Nb, and is preferably represented by a composition formula of Pbα[(Mn1/3Nb2/3)xTiyZrz]O3 (wherein 0.97≦α≦1.01, 0.04≦x≦0.16, 0.48≦y≦0.58, 0.32≦z≦0.41). |
| US08142672B2 |
Manufacturing method of opto-electric hybrid board
An opto-electric hybrid board manufacturing method which improves the alignment accuracy of an optical element with respect to a core of an optical waveguide. When a core (7) of an optical waveguide (W) is formed on a surface of an electric circuit board (E), the core (7) and optical element positioning alignment marks (A) are simultaneously formed from a photosensitive resin layer including a core formation region and an alignment mark formation region by a single photolithography process. In an optical element mounting step, a light emitting element (11) and a light receiving element (12) are mounted at proper positions with respect to the core (7) of the optical waveguide (W) with reference to the alignment marks (A). |
| US08142669B2 |
Electromechanical element, electric circuit device and production method of those
An electromechanical element includes a mechanically movable element through a hollow formed on a substrate, and a plurality of holes formed in the movable element. In the electromechanical element, the plurality of holes are arranged such that at least two holes are in a same line, at least one hole is in another line located adjacent to the one line with at least two holes, and a distance between one of the holes arranged in the same line and the other hole located at the closest position from the one of the two holes arranged in the same line is longer than a distance between the holes adjacently arranged in the same line. |
| US08142667B2 |
Manure separation for digester method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for removing settleable solids and unsettleable solids from a partially closed flush system in a dairy milking operation whereby a first processing tank bottom removes settleable solids contained therein where the net current flow vertically in the process tank is less than the settling rate of the settleable solids contained therein. The process tank batch feeds a plurality of thickening tanks that are each allowed to settle for a period of time before transferring fluid is to a second separator. The method and apparatus uses the solids for feeding a digester. |
| US08142664B2 |
Method for treatment of contaminated fluids
An apparatus for use in the treatment of contaminated fluid is provided. The apparatus includes an outer element into which contaminated fluid flows and an inner element positioned in substantial axial alignment within the outer element and in spaced relations thereto. The apparatus also includes, between its ends, a pathway defined by an interior surface of the inner element and along which treated fluid may be directed out from the apparatus. A waste nanoadsorbent material can be provided between the outer element and the inner element, for use in removing contaminants within the fluid flowing through the apparatus. A method for the treatment of contaminated fluid is also provided. |
| US08142662B2 |
Dehydrating system and method for control of spare membrane unit
A dehydrating system is designed to maintain the availability of a plant having the dehydrating system using a water separation membrane by allowing a water separation membrane unit to be replaced while the plant is in operation. The dehydrating system comprises at least two water separation membrane units in use arranged parallel to the direction of flow of a fluid to be processed, is configured so that at least one spare water separation membrane unit can be installed parallel to the direction of flow of the fluid to be processed with respect to the at least two water separation membrane units, having monitoring devices for the product fluid to be taken out, and maintains the properties of the product fluid by operating the spare water separation membrane unit depending on the properties of the product fluid monitored by the monitoring devices. |
| US08142661B2 |
Residual stream upgrading in a propylene oxide-styrene monomer process
In the co-production of propylene oxide and styrene monomer, there is produced a sodium-containing heavy residue stream previously suitable only as a low grade fuel. In accordance with the invention, the heavy residue stream is mixed with a hydrocarbon and an aqueous acid, and the resulting mixture is separated into an aqueous sodium salt-containing slurry phase and an organic phase reduced in sodium. |
| US08142660B2 |
Filtrate monitoring device, and filtrate monitoring system
A filtrate monitoring device and a filtrate monitoring system, which can monitor a membrane-type water filtrating/purifying system at all times and which can flexibly adjust themselves to the contents and sizes of impurities, are provided. The filtrate monitoring device monitors the filtrate having passed through the membrane-type water filtrating/purifying device. The filtrate monitoring device comprises: imaging/detecting means for shooting images in the filtrate having passed through the filtrating/purifying device, on the filtrate flowing in an observation bath of a filtrate observing cell disposed midway of the branched filtrate pipeline, thereby to specify the particles contained in the filtrate, and/or optical detecting means disposed midway of the filtrate pipeline before or after branching. |
| US08142659B2 |
Extraction with fractionation of oil and proteinaceous material from oleaginous material
Methods for selective extraction and fractionation of algal lipids and algal products are disclosed. A method of selective removal of products from an algal biomass provides for single and multistep extraction processes which enable efficient separation of algal components. Among these components are neutral lipids synthesized by algae, which are extracted by the methods disclosed herein for the production of renewable fuels. |
| US08142658B2 |
Process for preparation of substrate for microbial digestion
Processes for microbial digestion of organic material, and preparation of substrates for microbial digestion, suitable for the production of biomethane, from municipal and industrial waste water or from municipal or agricultural waste. In addition, a method for identifying a composition of matter that is suitable for microbial digestion, more particularly anaerobic digestion and/or mixed aerobic and anaerobic digestion. Also, a system and process for detoxifying organic wastes, such as those which may be present in waste water from industrial processes. |
| US08142654B2 |
Water bottle with filter
A disposable and recyclable water bottle formed of a non-toxic plastic composition includes a flexible sidewall, a neck with an open top and cap, and an open bottom end. A filter cartridge is received within the open bottom and contains activated carbon sandwiched between 0.7 to 50 microns filtration membranes, all contained between upper and lower perforated plates. A lower portion of the filtration cartridge provides a filling chamber for receiving a flow of unfiltered water on to the lower perforated plates for passage through the filter. An arrangement of slots in the walls of the filling chamber allows a portion of the flowing water to bypass the filter in order to prevent overflow when filling the bottle. A cap containing internal screw threads attaches to the external screw threads of the open bottom end, sealing the interior of the bottle. Once sealed, the contained water is allowed to move around in a fluid motion between the interior of the bottle and the filling chamber. |
| US08142652B2 |
Container for purification of water by sunlight
A container for purification of water by a combination of filtering, heating, and UV-radiation of the water is disclosed. The container includes a first section, which at least partly includes a sunlight permeable layer, and a second section, which at least partly is opposite the first section and at least partly includes a sunlight absorbing and infrared radiation emitting (IR-emitting) layer. The first and the second section together enclose a volume, in which the water can be received to be heated by and exposed to sunlight. According to the present invention, the first section is arranged such that the permeable layer is essentially flat, and the second section is arranged such that the volume includes at least a first and a second portion, wherein the first and the second portion, respectively, have a first and a second distance, respectively, between the permeable layer and the sunlight absorbing and IR-emitting layer, where the first and second distances are mutually different. A temperature difference between the water in the first and second portion is created after a period of sun exposure. |
| US08142651B1 |
Mass transfer tank system
A tank has a side wall bounded by a top and a bottom. An axis extends vertically through the tank. An inlet line for water of a first condition extends through the top with a lower end at a lower extent of the tank. An outlet line for water of a second condition has a lower end within an intermediate extent of the tank. A dispenser at the lower end of the water inlet line has apertured legs extending radially within the tank. An oscillator within the tank above the dispenser is operatively coupled to the inlet line for mixing all of the water of a first condition entering the tank through the inlet line while thereafter forwarding all of the mixed water of a first condition to the dispenser. |
| US08142649B2 |
Method for optimizing tidal therapies employing ultrafiltrate trending
A system and method for automatically adjusting a Continuous Cycling Peritoneal Dialysis (“CCPD”) therapy to minimize the potential for excess intra-peritoneal volume. The adjustments are made at the end of the drain, just prior to the next fill. The adjustments short the next fill, if necessary, to limit the intra-peritoneal volume, add a cycle, if necessary, to use all of the available dialysis solution and will average the remaining dwell time to maximize the therapeutic benefit of the therapy in the allotted time. In another embodiment, a tidal therapy using trended patient UF data is provided. |
| US08142648B2 |
Configurations and methods of RVP control for C5+ condensates
Controlled RVP C5+ products are produced from feed gas in configurations and methods in which a heavier portion of the feed gas is fractionated into several streams having distinct RVP and in which a C5+ stream is produced from the lighter portion of the feed gas. The so formed streams are then combined to produce C5+ products with controlled RVP. Thus, RVP control is achieved without the need for external products for blending process streams derived from the feed gas. |
| US08142646B2 |
Process to produce low sulfur catalytically cracked gasoline without saturation of olefinic compounds
The invention relates to a process for the desulfurization of a gasoline fraction with high recovery of olefins and reduced loss of Research Octane Number (RON). A petroleum fraction is contacted with hydrogen and a commercially available hydrodesulfurization catalyst under mild conditions with to remove a first portion of the sulfur present, and is then contacted with an adsorbent for the removal of additional sulfur. |
| US08142641B2 |
Electrochemical sensor
A electrochemical sensor comprising a mounting having screen printed array of electrodes located thereon, the array comprising a reference electrode, a counter electrode and a plurality of working electrodes, wherein the working electrodes are each overlaid with an insulating layer of insulating material, the insulating layer having an array of apertures, exposing a respective array of working regions of the working electrodes, and a method of making same by applying screen printing technic, and a method of using same for chlorine determination. |
| US08142634B2 |
Method and apparatus for electrophoretic separation of solids and water from oil based mud
A method of treating an invert emulsion drilling fluid, the method including pumping the drilling fluid to an electrophoresis unit that includes a positively charged electrode and a negatively charged electrode, applying a voltage between 200 V and 5000 V across the two electrodes to deposit water and solids on one of the charged electrodes, and removing deposited solids and water from the collection electrode is disclosed. An apparatus for treating an invert emulsion drilling fluid, the apparatus including a bath, a drum disposed in the bath, a power supply capable of applying a voltage between the housing and the drum in the range of 200 V to 5000 V, a motor coupled to the drum to rotate the drum at a predetermined speed, and a scraper having a first position in which the scraper contacts the rotating drum to remove deposited solids and water and a second position in which the scraper is retained away from the drum is also disclosed. |
| US08142632B2 |
Method of manufacturing fuel cell separator, and fuel cell separator
A method of manufacturing a fuel cell separator, the method including: subjecting the peripheral surfaces other than the respective gas passages of a pair of separator substrates formed from stainless steel to a cathodic electrolytic treatment within an alkali solution, thereby forming an iron-based hydrated oxide film on the peripheral surfaces of the pair of separator substrates (S200), conducting a water treatment by wetting the surface of the iron-based hydrated oxide film with water (S202), performing electrodeposition coating of an electrocoating material containing an aqueous resin onto at least one of the water-treated iron-based hydrated oxide films provided on the pair of separator substrates (S204), and baking the aqueous resin obtained by electrodeposition coating (S206). |
| US08142630B2 |
Electrophoresis devices and methods for focusing charged analytes
Devices are provided for separating and focusing charged analytes, comprising a separation chamber and two or more electrodes, for example, an electrode array. A membrane separates the separation chamber and the electrodes. The separation chamber of the device is configured, that is, the separation chamber has a shaped geometry, which serves to induce a gradient in an electric field generated by the electrodes in the electrode chamber. Optionally, molecular sieve is included in the separation chamber that is operative to shift the location at which a stationary focused band of a charged analyte forms under a given set of focusing process parameters. Methods are provided for separating and focusing charged analytes comprising introducing a first fluid comprising at least one charged analyte into the separation chamber of a device as just described, applying an electric field gradient to the charged analyte to focus the charged analyte in the electric field gradient. |
| US08142629B2 |
Biosensor, thin film electrode forming method, quantification apparatus, and quantification method
A biosensor according to the present invention comprises a support 1, a conductive layer 2 composed of an electrical conductive material such as noble metal, for example gold, palladium or the like, and carbon, slits 3a and 3b parallel to the side of the support 1, slits 4a and 4b vertical to the side of the support 1, a working electrode 5, a counter electrode 6, a detecting electrode 7, a spacer 8 which covers the working electrode 5, the counter electrode 6 and the detecting electrode 7 on the support 1, a rectangular cutout part 9 forming a specimen supply path, an inlet 9a of the specimen supply path, a reagent layer 12 formed by applying a reagent including an enzyme or the like to the working electrode 5, the counter electrode 6 and the detecting electrode 7, which is exposed from the cutout part 9 of the spacer 8, and a cover 13 which covers the spacer 8, as shown in FIG. 1. The so-constructed biosensor can be formed by a simple method, and a biosensor which is excellent in a measuring accuracy as well as a biosensor in which a reagent layer is placed uniformly on the electrodes regardless of a reagent liquid composition, and which has a uniform performance can be realized. |
| US08142628B2 |
Sealing jig and sealing method for cylinder block plating apparatus
A cylinder block plating apparatus preplates or plates a cylinder bore of each cylinder in a cylinder block of a multi-cylinder engine using a process liquid introduced into the cylinder bore in a condition of sealing an end of the cylinder bore when a communication hole is formed at the end of the cylinder bore, the cylinder block plating apparatus includes a sealing jig including a sealing unit including a cylinder bore seal for sealing the end of an inner peripheral surface of the cylinder bore and a communication hole seal for sealing a portion, near a communication hole, opposite to the cylinder inner peripheral surface, and a clamping unit disposed in the sealing unit to be pushed open and adapted to cause the communication hole seal to seal the portion located on the opposite side of the cylinder bore near the communication hole. The sealing is performed by sealing the end of an inner peripheral surface of the cylinder bore, and sealing a portion located on an opposite side of the cylinder bore in a periphery of the communication hole. |
| US08142620B2 |
Processing biomass
Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems can use feedstock materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials and/or starchy or sugary materials, to produce ethanol and/or butanol, e.g., by fermentation. |
| US08142618B2 |
Processes for preparing pure xylylenediamine
A process comprising: continuously distilling a crude xylylenediamine in a column to form a pure xylylenediamine and a bottom product, wherein the column comprises a distillation column having a side draw and the distillation column is operated under a reduced pressure and a bottom temperature of 185° C. or less; drawing off the pure xylylenediamine from the side draw; evaporatively concentrating the bottom product of the distillation column in an additional evaporation stage to form a condensate; and returning the condensate into the distillation column. |
| US08142616B2 |
Papermaking method using one or more quaternized dialkanolamine fatty acid ester compounds to control opacity and paper product made thereby
A method for making an opacity relevant grade paper or paperboard product, such as a communication type paper used for printing and writing applications, utilizes an effective amount of quaternized alkanolamine fatty acid ester compounds as an opacification aid to control the optical properties of the paper or paperboard product as a wet-end additive to a papermaking operation. Using the quaternized alkanolamine fatty acid ester compound can improve the opacity of the paper or paperboard product, maintain the opacity of the paper while reducing the use of other opacification aids, such as inorganic fillers and/or pigments, and allow for a reduction in paper grammage without a compromise in opacity. The improvements in paper optical properties are achieved without adversely affecting other characteristics of the paper product such as bulk value, tensile strength, tear index, and the like. |
| US08142615B2 |
Method of producing a paper product
The invention relates to a method of producing a laminate paper product comprising at least two layers, said method comprising (i) providing an aqueous suspension comprising cellulosic fibers (ii) adding to the suspension microfibrillar polysaccharide in an amount to yield from about 0.05 to about 50 wt % based on the weight of the cellulosic fibers (iii) dewatering the obtained suspension and forming a first layer having a density from about 150 to about 500 kg/m3 of said laminate paper product. The invention also relates to a method comprising (i) providing an aqueous suspension comprising cellulosic fibers (ii) adding to the suspension microfibrillar polysaccharide in an amount to yield from about 0.05 to about 50 wt % based on the weight of the cellulosic fibers (iii) dewatering the obtained suspension and forming at least a first and a second layer of said laminate whereby at least one of said at least first and second layer is formed from an aqueous suspension obtained in step (ii) containing microfibrillar polysaccharide; and joining said layers in such way that the laminate product obtains a density from about 150 to about 800 kg/m3. The invention also relates to a laminate paper product which can be obtained by the method and the use thereof. |
| US08142613B2 |
Method and device for the production of tissue paper
The invention relates to a method for the production of a web of tissue paper, comprising the steps of: depositing a layer of an aqueous suspension of papermaking fibers on at least one forming fabric; reducing the water content of said layer until the weight percentage of fiber in said layer is brought up to a first value; wet-embossing said layer in a nip between a pair of embossing rollers; and drying said layer to form a web of tissue paper. |
| US08142611B2 |
Semiconductor-chip exfoliating device and semiconductor-device manufacturing method
A semiconductor-chip exfoliating device for exfoliating a semiconductor chip 1 from an adhesive sheet 6 is provided. The device includes a backup holder 28 for holding the adhesive sheet 6 so that semiconductor chips 1 turn upward, a pair of needle pins arranged on a backside of the holder 28 to lift off the adhesive sheet 6 from the holder 28 through through-holes 31a, 31b in the holder 28 and a sliding unit 33 arranged on the backside of the holder 28 to slide one needle pin 30b in a direction to depart from the other needle pin 30a. By the sliding unit 33, the interval between the needle pins 30a, 30b can be changed so as to cope with a variation of semiconductor chips 1, 1A. |
| US08142596B1 |
Auto-applied labeling methods
Auto-applied packing list and upper label methods. A carrier material with an upper label and a lower label removeably adhered thereto is provided. The upper label and lower label are dispensed in sequence onto a label applicator apparatus. The label applicator apparatus applies the upper label and the lower label to a surface simultaneously, whereby after application the underside of the lower label is in contact with the surface and the undersurface of the upper label is in contact with the top side of the lower label. |
| US08142592B2 |
Method for making a multilayer adhesive laminate
A method allows for rapid manufacture of relatively thick adhesive coatings using a continuous process, where a single thin coating is continuously converted into a single thicker adhesive laminate. An exemplary process includes the steps of: (1) producing a web having a first surface with an adhesive layer and a second surface with a release liner; (2) slitting the web longitudinally into a first section and a second section, (3) laminating a backing film to the adhesive layer of the first section; (4) removing the release liner of the laminate of step (3) exposing the adhesive layer of the first section; and (5) laminating the second section to the laminate of step (4), wherein the adhesive layer of the laminate of step (4) is combined with the adhesive layer of the second section. |
| US08142588B2 |
Method for applying tape layer to outer periphery of spiral wound module
Means and methods for applying a tape layer from a roll to the outer periphery of a spiral wound module. In preferred embodiments the length of the tape coincides with the length of the module. |
| US08142585B2 |
Polymer film splicing method and device, and stretching method
An off-line stretching device includes a film supply chamber, a tenter section, a relaxation chamber, a cooling chamber, and a winding chamber. The film supply chamber includes a splicing section, where a rear end of a preceding film and a front end of a trailing film are overlapped to be spliced to each other by thermal welding. The thermal welding is performed from above and below the film while a temperature of welding heads of a heat sealer, contacting with the film, is kept at a level equal to or less than a decomposition temperature of the preceding and trailing films. The spliced film is stretched in the tenter section and subjected to heat treatment for stress relaxation in the relaxation chamber, to shrink in a film width direction. |
| US08142584B2 |
Insulation product having bicomponent fiber facing layer and method of manufacturing the same
An insulation product is provided comprising an insulation sheet containing randomly oriented fibers bonded together. The sheet has first and second major surfaces and a pair of side portions. A nonwoven facing layer is bonded to at least one of the major surfaces. The nonwoven facing layer comprises randomly oriented bicomponent fibers, each of the bicomponent fibers including first component and second component portions. The nonwoven facing layer is bonded to the at least one major surface at least in part by a meltbond between the first component portion of the bicomponent fibers and the randomly oriented fibers in the insulation sheet. |
| US08142583B2 |
Method for production of several fibre composite components
A method for production of fiber composite components, particularly suitable for the production of profiles of complicated shape with varying profile cross-section and/or with at least parts with curved lines, such as used for the production of aircraft, for example. The method (a) produces plural core components, (b) separates application of a first fiber material to each of the core components, (c) assembles the core components provided with the first fiber material to form a sequence of core components, (d) applies a second fiber material common to the core component sequence along at least one side of the core component sequence, provided with the first fiber material, (e) impregnates and hardens the first and second fiber materials to form a fiber-reinforced component body, and (f) separates the component body into plural sections as represented by the fiber composite components. |
| US08142580B1 |
Process for adsorbing nitroglycerine from water streams using nitrocellulose
A process for the adsorption of nitroglycerine from aqueous streams using nitrocellulose as the adsorbent. |
| US08142578B2 |
Process for manufacturing hot-forged parts made of a magnesium alloy
A process for manufacturing a process for manufacturing a part made of a magnesium alloy is disclosed. The process includes a step of forging a block of the alloy followed by a heat treatment. The alloy is a casting alloy based on 85% magnesium, and containing, by weight: 0.2 to 1.3% zinc; 2 to 4.5% neodymium; 0.2 to 7.0% rare-earth metal with an atomic number from 62 to 71; 0.2 to 1% zirconium. The forging is carried out at a temperature above 400° C. In particular the temperature is set between 420 and 430° C. and the forging step comprises a plastic deformation carried out at a slow rate. The process allows one to produce parts such as elements of casing for aeronautical machines, operating at a temperature of around 200° C. and having good aging properties. |
| US08142567B2 |
Vacuum processing apparatus
A vacuum processing apparatus includes a member having a gas passage formed in a center between the pressure adjusting valve of an exhaust system and a turbo-molecular pump, and a particle dispersion prevention unit having plural stationary blades formed to be tilted in a direction opposite the direction of the rotary blade of the turbo-molecular pump on the outer circumference of the member. |
| US08142560B2 |
Ink set, and ink jet recording method using the ink set
An ink set including two or more kinds of ink compositions including at least a black ink composition and a color ink composition, in which the black ink composition includes a self-dispersion type pigment having a hydrophilic group on the surface thereof, the color ink composition includes a self-dispersion type pigment having a hydrophilic group on the surface thereof with a phenyl group, and all the ink compositions include resin emulsion, is used in an ink jet recording method. Provision of an ink set for ink jet recording, which is capable of realizing a good image, in addition to high color developability, high ejection stability, high clogging recovering properties, and high fixability. |
| US08142557B2 |
Radiation curable ink containing gellant and radiation curable wax
Radiation curable phase change ink comprising an ink vehicle that includes at least one curable carrier, at least one gellant, at least one curable wax and at least one photoinitiator. In a method of forming an image with the ink, the radiation curable phase change ink is melted, then jetted onto an image receiving substrate, wherein the radiation curable phase change ink forms a gel state, and exposed to ultraviolet light to cure the curable components of the radiation curable phase change ink. The wax cures into the structure of the ink, thereby generating a robust image of excellent gloss. |
| US08142548B2 |
Method and apparatus for enhanced mercury removal
A method and apparatus for treating a coal combustion flue gas. In one embodiment, the method includes injecting a halogen into a flue gas, and injecting partially combusted, carbon enriched alkaline coal ash solid particles into the flue gas ahead of a particulate collection device. In another embodiment, the method includes exposing partially combusted, carbon enriched alkaline coal ash solid particles to a halogen containing atmosphere, and injecting the halogen atmosphere treated alkaline carbon containing solid particles into the flue gas ahead of a particulate collection device. |
| US08142542B2 |
Producing metal and carbon dioxide with hydrogen recycle
Offgas containing carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide that is produced in the reduction of ores and other metal oxides in a reactor is treated to reduce its carbon dioxide content and is then contacted with metal oxide to reduce the oxidation state of the metal and oxidize carbon monoxide therein to carbon dioxide, following which the reduced metal is oxidized with steam to produce hydrogen that can be fed to the reactor. |
| US08142539B2 |
Method and arrangement for feeding an anode into a smelting reactor
The invention relates to an arrangement for feeding an anode into a metallurgical smelting reactor (2), such as a flash converter, said arrangement including a feeding funnel (7) made of at least one part for feeding at least one anode (4) at a time into the smelting reactor, said arrangement also including a bending element (5) for bending the anode, so that the essentially completely bent anode (4) is arranged to meet the surface of the melt (8) contained in the smelting reactor in an essentially horizontal position. The invention also relates to a method for feeding an anode into a metallurgical smelting reactor (2). |
| US08142538B2 |
Pleated aligned web filter
A filter element in the form of a nonwoven self-supporting filtration web having rows of folded or corrugated spaced-apart pleats, the web containing continuous thermoplastic fibers a majority of which are aligned at 90°±20° with respect to the row direction. The filter element can be made by forming rows of pleats in such a nonwoven web and cutting the web to a desired size and shape. The filter elements can provide improved mechanical and filtration properties and can exhibit reduced susceptibility to pleat deformation and the loss of space between pleats. |
| US08142532B2 |
Shaped abrasive particles with an opening
Abrasive particles which are shaped abrasive particles each with an opening is disclosed. The shaped abrasive particles are formed from alpha alumina and have a first face and a second face separated by a thickness t. The opening in each of the shaped abrasive particles can improve grinding performance by reducing the size of a resulting wear flat, can provide a reservoir for grinding aid, and can improve adhesion to a backing in a coated abrasive article. |
| US08142530B2 |
Methods and apparatus for producing syngas and alcohols
This invention features methods and apparatus for producing syngas from any carbon-containing feed material. In some embodiments, a substoichiometric amount of oxygen is used to enhance the formation of syngas. In various embodiments, both oxygen and steam are added during the conversion of the feed material into syngas. The syngas can be converted to alcohols, such as ethanol, or to other products. |
| US08142528B2 |
Methods and systems of reducing viscosity of gasification system slag
Methods and systems for gasifier fines recycling system are provided. The system includes a gasifier slag removal system configured to separate first fines from a particulate slag removed from a gasifier by at least one of settling and filtering, a second fines handling system configured to receive second fines from a source other than the gasifier, and an injection system configured to mix the first fines and the second fines and a fuel for injection into the gasifier. |
| US08142526B2 |
Artificial fire log
Artificial fire logs made from non-petrochemical based, renewable materials are described. These artificial fire logs perform substantially equivalent to existing commercial fire logs. The artificial fire logs are made from cellulosic materials, a lignin containing composition and a non-petroleum based wax where the lignin containing composition comprises lignin and 1,3-propanediol derived from a renewable resource. |
| US08142525B2 |
Preparation of fatty acid esters of glycerol formal and its use as biofuel
This invention describes the preparation of fatty acid esters of glycerol formal either by a triglyceride transesterification process or, alternatively, by an esterification process of fatty acids previously obtained from the hydrolysis of triglycerides (fat splitting), with glycerol formal in the presence of an acid or basic catalyst. Also the invention describes the use of these fatty acid esters of glycerol formal prepared by said process as biofuel. In an embodiment, such biofuel is used in the preparation of other biofuels by its mixture with a product selected from a group formed by: glycerol formal, biodiesel, petrol-derived diesel, and mixtures thereof. The biofuels thus obtained are characterized to allow the complete incorporation of the glycerol obtained in the current biodiesel production process in a biodiesel fuel. |
| US08142522B2 |
Electrode stack for capacitive device
Capacitive devices are described having electrical interconnects of electrodes which possess efficient electrical contact between current collectors, electrical isolation of electrodes, and/or electrochemical stability, while minimizing the mechanical stress and strain applied to the electrodes. The capacitive devices are adaptable to a wide range of electrode dimensions and electrode stack heights. |
| US08142517B2 |
Prosthesis
A prosthesis for attachment to a residual limb. The prosthesis includes a liner into which the residual limb is insertable, a socket into which the liner is insertable, and a fibrous pile fastener arranged on the inner surface of the liner, the outer surface of the liner, and the inner wall of the socket. Fibers extend from the fibrous pile fastener on inner surface of the liner inclined toward a direction in which the residual limb is inserted into the liner. Fibers extend from the fibrous pile fastener on the outer surface of the liner inclined toward a direction reversed from a direction in which the liner is inserted into the socket. Further, fibers extend from the fibrous pile fastener on the inner wall of the socket toward the direction in which the liner is inserted into the socket. |
| US08142516B2 |
Self-cleaning skin-like prosthetic polymer surfaces
An external covering and method of making an external covering for hiding the internal endoskeleton of a mechanical (e.g., prosthetic) device that exhibits skin-like qualities is provided. The external covering generally comprises an internal bulk layer in contact with the endoskeleton of the prosthetic device and an external skin layer disposed about the internal bulk layer. The external skin layer is comprised of a polymer composite with carbon nanotubes embedded therein. The outer surface of the skin layer has multiple cone-shaped projections that provide the external skin layer with superhydrophobicity. The carbon nanotubes are preferably vertically aligned between the inner surface and outer surface of the external skin layer in order to provide the skin layer with the ability to transmit heat. Superhydrophobic powders may optionally be used as part of the polymer composite or applied as a coating to the surface of the skin layer to enhance superhydrophobicity. |
| US08142510B2 |
Mobile bearing assembly having a non-planar interface
A mobile tibial assembly includes a tibial tray and a tibial insert. The tibial tray includes a track that is defined in an upper surface, and the track has a bottom wall that is flat in the medial-lateral direction and convex in the anterior-posterior direction. The tibial insert includes a bottom bearing surface configured to contact the upper surface of the tibial tray and a stem including a circular neck connected to the bottom bearing surface. The bottom bearing surface has a surface area that is less than the cross-sectional area of the circular neck. The convex upper surface of the tibial tray contacts the concave bottom bearing surface of the tibial insert and the tibial insert is freely rotatable about a central axis defined by the stem as the tibial insert is moved along the track relative to the tibial tray in the generally anterior-posterior direction. |
| US08142506B2 |
Prosthesis made of a fibre-reinforced hydrogel, method of manufacturing the prosthesis and use thereof
The present application relates to a prosthesis comprising a flexible portion (1) and at least one less flexible portion (2), which flexible portion comprises a fiber-reinforced hydrogel. In addition to that, the application relates to a prosthesis consisting of a fiber-reinforced hydrogel, which prosthesis is intended to replace cartilaginous materials. The application further relates to the use of the prosthesis and to a method for manufacturing the prosthesis. The application furthermore relates to a method of preparing the flexible portion for a prosthesis. Finally, the application relates to a fiber material apparently intended for use in the prosthesis. |
| US08142496B2 |
Fixing device, in particular for fixing to vascular wall tissue
A device for narrowing the passage through surrounding vascular wall tissue, such as a ring prosthesis for reducing the size of the passage of a heart valve, includes a ring shaped element which is elastically contractile under influence of a resilient force for contracting the ring shaped element from an expanded, wide condition to a narrow condition to narrow the passage. A method of narrowing the passage through surrounding vascular wall tissue using such a device is also disclosed. |
| US08142492B2 |
Prosthetic valve implantation systems
Prosthetic valves implantation methods and systems, especially as related to fitting a prosthetic valve at the site of a native stenotic or incompetent valve are described. The subject devices, systems and associated dock deployment and implant docking techniques may be employed in percutaneous valve replacement procedures. |
| US08142489B2 |
Flexible and expandable stent
In one embodiment of the invention, a stent may be provided comprising a first undulating band having alternating peaks and troughs, a second undulating band having alternating peaks and troughs, a first substantially longitudinal connector extending between the first and second undulating bands and a second very short connector extending between the first and second undulating bands, the first connector substantially longer than the second very short connector. |
| US08142486B2 |
Wound care method and system with one or both of vacuum-light therapy and thermally augmented oxygenation
A system for treatment of a wound area of a patient including a first treatment pad comprising a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for cleaning and exposing a wound area to ultraviolet light, a second treatment pad comprising removal ports for exposing the wound area to a negative pressure, and a control unit interoperably connected to the first and second treatment pads for providing a negative pressure and the ultraviolet light to the wound area. |
| US08142478B2 |
Artificial facet joint and method
An artificial facet joint includes a spinal implant rod and a connector. The connector includes a screw and a rod connecting member having structure for engagement of the rod. The rod connecting member is pivotally engaged to the screw. The rod may also be held slideably within the connector enabling the rod to be moved relative to the connector. |
| US08142477B2 |
Retaining system
A retaining system for affixing a component to a vertebral body is disclosed. The system comprises a component and a retaining mechanism. The component comprises an inner surface configured to engage at least a portion of an endplate surface of the vertebral body, and an outer surface configured to engage the retaining mechanism, wherein the outer surface of the component comprises a first face directed substantially toward the vertebral body. The retaining mechanism comprises an inner surface configured to engage the outer surface of the component, and an outer surface configured to receive a fastener, wherein the inner surface of the retaining mechanism comprising a second face directed substantially away from the vertebral body. |
| US08142473B2 |
Method of transferring rotational motion in an articulating surgical instrument
An endoscopic surgical instrument includes an elongated shaft, which may be articulated to facilitate positioning of an end effector. The instrument accommodates reactionary forces associated with closing the end effector without substantial disruption to the position of the end effector. The instrument includes an elongated shaft housing generally defining distal and proximal shaft axes, and a torsion member extending through the shaft housing. The torsion member transmits rotational displacement from a handle portion of the instrument to the end effector to selectively move the end effector between open and closed configurations. The torsion member comprises a flexible shaft exhibiting a plurality of generally radial slots spaced longitudinally along a length of the flexible shaft. |
| US08142460B2 |
Bone abrading ultrasonic horns
Ultrasonic horns configured for use with a surgical ultrasonic handpiece including a resonator are described. The ultrasonic horns include an elongated member having a longitudinal internal channel extending therethrough. Disposed on the distal end of the elongated member is a tip lead configured for cutting and/or abrading hard tissue, for example bone. The tip lead includes an abrasive surface. |
| US08142458B2 |
Rotational atherectomy device with fluid inflatable support elements and torque transmitting membrane
A rotational atherectomy device for removing a stenotic tissue from a vessel of a patient is disclosed. The device comprises a rotatable, flexible, hollow drive shaft having a fluid impermeable wall defining a lumen of the drive shaft and, an abrasive element mounted to a distal end portion of the drive shaft proximal to and spaced away from a distal support element formed at a distal end of the drive shaft. The distal support element is inflatable by pressurized fluid which flows in an antegrade direction through said lumen of the drive shaft and is least partially re-directed into the distal fluid inflatable support element. The distal fluid inflatable support element has an outer wall comprising an outflow opening located such that said outflow opening faces an inner surface of a treated vessel during rotation of the drive shaft so that a flow of fluid through said outflow opening forms a layer of fluid between the outer wall of the rotating fluid inflated distal support element and a wall of the treated vessel to form a fluid bearing between the outer wall of the rotating fluid inflated distal support element and the wall of the treated vessel. The fluid impermeable drive shaft comprises at least one torque transmitting coil and at least one fluid impermeable membrane which extends beyond a distal end of the torque transmitting coil and conveys torque to the abrasive element mounted to the drive shaft distal to and spaced away from the distal end of the torque transmitting coil. |
| US08142456B2 |
Braid-ball embolic devices
Embolic implants, delivery systems and methods of manufacture and delivery are disclosed. The devices can be used for aneurysm treatment and/or parent vessel occlusion. Implant designs offer low profile compressibility for delivery to neurovasculature, while maintaining other necessary features such as density for occlusion purposes and desirable radial strength characteristics. |
| US08142452B2 |
Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
Methods and devices are provided for regulating a hydraulic restriction system including a restriction device. In general, the methods and devices can allow for non-invasive, transient pressure control. The methods and devices can also, in some embodiments, mechanically regulate pressure of the restriction device without using any electrical components that may need to be powered to operate over extended periods of time. |
| US08142448B2 |
Endoscopic instruments for suturing tissues in a body cavity
A tissue puncturing system used to suture tissues in a body cavity including: an endoscope; a flexible sheath having a distal portion provided with at least a side opening and a lumen, through which an endoscope may pass; at least one mechanism for puncturing tissue disposed in the flexible sheath, and having a pointed end, which is movable from a first position to a second position; and an operation mechanism for moving the mechanism for puncturing between the first and second positions. |
| US08142447B2 |
Mechanical actuator interface system for robotic surgical tools
Robotic surgical tools, systems, and methods for preparing for and performing robotic surgery include a memory mounted on the tool. The memory can perform a number of functions when the tool is loaded on the tool manipulator: first, the memory can provide a signal verifying that the tool is compatible with that particular robotic system. Secondly, the tool memory may identify the tool-type to the robotic system so that the robotic system can reconfigure its programming. Thirdly, the memory of the tool may indicate tool-specific information, including measured calibration offsets indicating misalignment of the tool drive system, tool life data, or the like. This information may be stored in a read only memory (ROM), or in a nonvolatile memory which can be written to only a single time. The invention further provides improved engagement structures for coupling robotic surgical tools with manipulator structures. |
| US08142443B2 |
Surgical retrieval device radially deployable from a collapsed position to a snare or cauterization loop
A surgical instrument featuring a combination cauterizing and surgical capture component. The instrument is deployable from a distal end of a lumen to a first position partially exposing a cauterizing loop and restrained radially deployable members wherein a plurality of cauterizations may be performed. The instrument is deployable to a second position fully translated from the lumen wherein the plurality of radially positionable members may be released by activation of a release member to allow the biased members to deploy radially around an axis running through the loop. |
| US08142437B2 |
System for percutaneously fixing a connecting rod to a spine
A system for percutaneously fixing a connecting rod to vertebrae comprises first and second bone screws, each with a corresponding hollow bone screw extension mounted thereto, and a connecting rod of length sized for subcutaneous receipt in the yokes of the bone screws. A rod introducer is provided for inserting the connecting rod into slots of the screw extensions and into the yokes of the bone screws. A rod persuader may also be provided that is attachable to at least one of the screw extensions, the rod persuader being operable to engage the connecting rod and urge the rod into the slot of the yoke of the corresponding bone screws. A rod detector may also be provided for insertion one of the screw extensions, the rod detector having an indicator sensing the presence of a rod in the slot of the yoke of at least one of the bone screws. |
| US08142436B2 |
Retraction tube for use with bone screw
A retractor system and method for locating and placing a polyaxial screw while substantially simultaneously retracting tissue is shown and described. The retractor has a channel that facilitates introducing a rod into the polyaxial screw. Various embodiments are shown, including one which utilized a reducer for moving the rod in the retractor. |
| US08142432B2 |
Apparatus for repositioning portions of fractured bone and method of using same
A medical apparatus for use with an outrigger and at least one fastening pin to reposition first and second portions of a bone of a mammalian body. The apparatus includes a framework and a first fastening assembly for coupling the framework to the outrigger and thus the at least one fastening pin and the first end portion of the bone. The first end portion of an elongate pin is provided with a sharpened tip for penetrating the second portion of the bone. A second fastening assembly couples the second end portion of the elongate pin to the framework. At least one adjustment assembly is carried by at least one of the framework and the first and second fastening assemblies for moving the first end portion of the elongate pin relative to the outrigger so as to reposition the second portion of the bone relative to the first portion of the bone. A method for using the apparatus is provided. |
| US08142426B2 |
Methods and devices for treating tissue
The invention provides a system and method for achieving the cosmetically beneficial effects of shrinking collagen tissue in the dermis or other areas of tissue in an effective, non-invasive manner using an array of electrodes. Systems described herein allow for improved treatment of tissue. Additional variations of the system include array of electrodes configured to minimize the energy required to produce the desired effect. |
| US08142423B2 |
System and method for incising material
Systems and methods of incising a portion of a material include creating a sub-surface separation in a region of the material, and incising a periphery of the region with a pulsed laser beam to produce an edge of the portion. The edge includes a periodically varying shape to secure the portion to the material when the portion is reintegrated. The system includes a laser producing the pulsed laser beam, a scanner operable in response to a control signal, and a controller coupled to the scanner. The controller produces the control signal. In response to the control signal, the scanner creates a sub-surface separation in the region with the pulsed laser beam and incises the periphery of the region with the pulsed laser beam to produce the edge with the periodically varying shape. |
| US08142422B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for diagnosing and treating sinusitis and other disorders of the ears, nose and/or throat
Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc. |
| US08142416B2 |
Steerable surgical guide wire introducer
A guide wire introducer with integrated wire steering function for treating bone. The guide wire employed with the introducer includes a bore material that is a psuedoelastic metal alloy, such as Nitinol. This introducer has a chamfered tip with the complement of the outer construction including a uniform narrow outer diameter enabling insertion into soft tissue and bone with a guide wire therein. The chamfered tip of the introducer incorporates as integrated slit that enables the steering function of the introducer. Additionally, the outer surface of the introducer incorporates a radiolucent notch for radial position reference. |
| US08142415B2 |
Braided catheter reinforcement layer having short axial filament segments
A catheter includes an elongate member having a braided reinforcing layer. The reinforcing layer comprises a plurality of continuous filaments that transform from a braided configuration to short axially oriented segments in a least one location along the catheter. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a braided elongate member including providing a core, forming at least one braided portion with a plurality of filaments and forming at least one short axially oriented segment with at least a portion of the same plurality of filaments. |
| US08142414B2 |
Methods of injecting fluids into joints using a handpiece assembly
Systems for injecting fluids and/or other materials into a targeted anatomical location, in particular, an intra-articular space, include a handpiece assembly having a proximal end and a distal end, a needle extending from the distal end of the handpiece assembly, a fluid delivery module comprising a cassette and a fluid transfer device. A conduit is generally configured to place the fluid delivery module in fluid communication with the handpiece assembly. Medications, formulations and/or other fluids or materials contained within vials that are secured to the fluid delivery module can be selectively delivered into an anatomy through a needle located at the distal end of the handpiece assembly. In some embodiments, ultrasound or other imaging technologies can be used to locate a joint or other targeted anatomical location. |
| US08142409B2 |
Absorbent article containing a scrotal catch and a moisture sensor
An absorbent article containing a top sheet, a bottom sheet, an absorbent core, and a scrotal catch, wherein the scrotal catch is configured to support, protect or cover at least a portion of a male's scrotum is provided. The absorbent article optionally contains a moisture-indicating device which allows a caregiver to be alerted to the presence of moisture in the absorbent article without removing clothing from the infant or individual wearing the absorbent article. |
| US08142408B2 |
Insert containing a scrotal catch and a non-flexible cup
An insert containing a scrotal catch and a non-flexible cup, wherein the scrotal catch is configured to support, protect or cover at least a portion of a male's scrotum and the non-flexible cup is configured to support, protect or cover at least a portion of a male's genitalia, is provided. |
| US08142407B2 |
Scrotal catch
A garment containing a scrotal catch, wherein the scrotal catch is attached to at least a portion of the garment, and wherein the scrotal catch is configured to separate the interior surface of the garment into an anterior compartment which supports, protects, and/or covers at least a portion of a male's scrotum, and a posterior compartment, wherein the scrotal catch reduces and/or prevents fecal matter from entering the anterior compartment is provided. |
| US08142405B2 |
Wound irrigation device pressure monitoring and control system
An apparatus includes a pressure housing configured to be coupled to a vacuum source and a diaphragm sealingly coupled to the pressure housing. The diaphragm is configured to move in response to the vacuum source. A magnet is coupled to the diaphragm. A magnetic switch is disposed opposite the magnet and is configured to be actuated by the magnet when the magnet is a predetermined distance from the magnetic switch. The magnetic switch is configured to selectively actuate the vacuum source. |
| US08142403B2 |
Syringe assembly with plunger having a secondary dispensing reservoir
A syringe assembly is disclosed which includes a syringe body defining a first fluid reservoir and a fluid outlet. A plunger assembly includes a plunger rod and a plunger. The plunger is supported on a distal end of the plunger rod and defines a second fluid reservoir. The plunger is movable within the syringe body from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject fluid from the first fluid reservoir. A piercing member is supported on a distal end of the plunger rod within the second fluid reservoir. The piercing member is movable to pierce the plunger to eject fluid from the second fluid reservoir when a predetermined force is applied to the plunger in the advanced position. |
| US08142387B2 |
Tubular vascular transplant
A tubular vascular transplant (1, 1′, 1″, 1′″) serves for connecting vessels in the human body. The transplant, in particular made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), can preferably be used for an arteriovenous shunt for carrying out a dialysis. The transplant is connected by its first, proximal end to a vessel, for example an artery (2), and by its distal end to another location of the same vessel or to a different vessel, for example a vein (3). The lumen of the transplant (1, 1′, 1″, and 1′″) widens in a steadily conical manner in the region of its distal end and forms a diffuser (8) there. The cone angle (a) of the wall of the diffuser (8) with respect to the central flow direction of the blood in the transplant (1′, 1″, 1′″) is preferably 6° to 7°. In the region of the diffuser (8), preferably at least one, preferably planar, dividing wall (11, 11′, 11a, and 11b) is provided, running in the central flow direction of the blood. This makes it possible to prevent the formation of an intimal hyperplasia and a pseudointima. |
| US08142385B2 |
Pyloric valve devices and methods
A pyloric valve is provided for inhibiting the flow of chyme through the pyloric region of the gastrointestinal tract. The pyloric valve includes a blocking portion having a disc-shaped inlet and a helical flange. The helical flange may be disposed in a contracted position defining a contracted length and a contracted diameter and an extended position defining an extended length and an extended diameter, wherein the extended length is longer than the contracted length and the extended diameter is smaller than the contracted diameter. The pyloric valve may further include a sleeve that may have a beveled distal end. The pyloric valve may be constructed of silicon. Also provided are methods of inserting and removing the pyloric valve, which each include a step of manipulating the support between its contracted and extended positions. Insertion and removal systems are also provided for use with the pyloric valve. |
| US08142383B2 |
Fluid distribution module and extracorporeal blood circuit including such a module
A fluid distribution module (1) for causing and monitoring the circulation of fluids from and to a patient through an extracorporeal blood treatment device, comprises a degassing device (11) connected to a connecting structure (10). The degassing device (11) comprises a first chamber (12) having a lower inlet (13) for a liquid and a second chamber (14) having an upper opening (79) closed by a hydrophobic membrane (78) and an outlet (15) for discharging the liquid. The connecting structure (10) has at least a first and a second conduits (20, 21) defined therein, wherein the first conduit (20) comprises a first end for connection to a discharge tube (7) from the treatment device and a second end connected to the inlet (13) of the first chamber (12) of the degassing device (11), and the second conduit (21) comprises a first end connected to the outlet (15) of the second chamber (14) of the degassing device (11) and a second end for connection to a blood return tube (6) to a patient. |
| US08142379B2 |
Orthopedic arm and shoulder brace
The present invention relates to a portable device for providing continuous passive motion of a limb comprising a brace for supporting said limb. A programmable motor, mechanically connected to the brace, provides continuous passive motion of a limb. The movement of the limb is controlled in two control points of movement at the lower arm. Flexible positioning means are provided with a fastening means positioning the brace and the programmable motor on the body of a person carrying said device in a stable position. The programmable motor is partially housed within the positioning means. The invention is particularly suitable for use in paramedical and orthopedic applications. It allows adduction and abduction, rotation and exo/endo rotation of a limb. |
| US08142376B2 |
Massage member, massage device and packaging and dispensing assembly incorporating such a massage device
A massage device includes a support, a grip or gripping means firmly attached to the support and capable of being grasped in order for a user to handle the massage device, and at least two massage members rotatably mounted on the support around respective axes of rotation. The two massage members each typically include a roller that extends along a main axis of elongation, and massage components configured to bear against a skin surface, the massage components including free ends that project outwardly relative to the roller and that are arranged along at least one helix around the main axis of elongation of the roller, the massage components being distributed around at least one turn of the helix, said helix including an irregularity relative to the roller. |
| US08142375B2 |
Automated infant massager
An automated infant massager has a base for supporting the infant and a plurality of first movable massage elements structured to underlie a portion of the infant. At least one motor is employed for effecting reciprocating movement of the first movable massage element. A plurality of second movable massage elements is provided for massaging the arms and legs of the infant. A plurality of third movable elements is provided within a head support for massaging portions of the infant's head, and a plurality of fourth movable massage elements are provided for massaging the infant's shoulders. The infant massager may, in one embodiment, be structured to receive and massage a premature infant, and in another embodiment, may be structured to receive and massage a full-term infant. |
| US08142373B1 |
Temple massaging headband
A system and method that utilizes a massaging apparatus specifically for a person's temples with the expressed purpose of providing relaxation and headache relief, is herein disclosed. The apparatus is configured as a headband with battery-powered massagers at the temples. The apparatus is supported both with minimal elasticity from the headband and with ear supports. Power is supplied to the massagers from a rechargeable battery pack that can be worn about the arm or alternately the waist and is electrically tethered to the headband. Each small disc-shaped temple massager is separately powered by a small motor that produces the massaging effect which is intended to reproduce the sensation of rubbing/massaging the temples. |
| US08142370B2 |
Electro-rheological fluid brake and actuator devices and orthotic devices using the same
Electro-rheological fluid brake or actuator devices provide controllable resistance with or without inclusion of active torque output in either direction of rotation under manual or computer control. The brake and actuator devices are suitable for use in an orthotic device for a joint, such as the knee or elbow. |
| US08142368B2 |
Method of characterization and differentiation of tissue
A novel method for soft tissue characterization includes obtaining a sequence of surface stress patterns as a function of an increasing compression force when a probe is pressed against the tissue over the location of the lesion of interest. A number of elasticity features are then calculated to characterize the tissue and the lesion located therein including strain hardening, loading curve average slope, lesion peak signal under a predetermined load, tissue heterogeneity, lesion shape and lesion mobility. At least three elasticity features are provided as an input to a statistical Bayesian classifier trained on a clinical database to calculate the probability of the lesion being benign or malignant. Additional patient-related parameters may be further provided as inputs to the classifier to increase the accuracy of differentiation between benign and malignant lesions. These parameters include a family history of cancer disease, a patient-inherited genetic factor, a history of said tissue related diseases, patient's age, patient's weight, and patient's lifestyle and dietary factors. The method of the invention along with other non-invasive examinations of lesions may help in reducing the rate of biopsies, specifically breast tissue biopsies. |
| US08142367B2 |
Method and apparatus for deflecting a screw-in lead
A deflectable stylet system optimized for use in conjunction with a lead of the type having a fixation helix that is screwed into body tissue by rotation of the lead's connector pin is disclosed. The system includes an attachment that is rotatable and longitudinally slidable with respect to the handle of a deflectable stylet. A lead coupled to the attachment may be moved longitudinally with respect to a stylet to account for slight variances in the lead length. In one embodiment, the attachment couples to the lead via a pushbutton mechanism that can be locked to the lead using one hand. The attachment may be rotated to thereby rotate the lead connector. This allows for retraction and extension of a retractable fixation helix, and for further attachment or detachment of a fixation helix to adjacent tissue. In one embodiment, the attachment may be longitudinally rigidly positioned in predetermined locations with respect to the handle. According to another aspect of the system, a deflection device is coupled to the handle to facilitate deflection of the stylet. In one embodiment, this deflection device may be rotatably and/or slidably activated to accomplish the stylet deflection. The system allows a user to adjust lead length with respect to the stylet length, and to further perform stylet deflection and lead rotation all with one hand. |
| US08142363B1 |
Cardiac rhythm management lead with omni-directional pressure sensing
Embodiments include a cardiac rhythm management system having a lead that includes an omni-directional pressure sensor that is configured to resist tissue in-growth and provide reliable and consistent pressure readings from within a patient's vasculature. Embodiments of the cardiac rhythm management lead may also include a variety of pacing and shocking electrodes. |
| US08142361B2 |
Method and apparatus for automatic optimization of doppler imaging parameters
A method and apparatus are disclosed for automatic optimization of Doppler imaging parameters. The method includes obtaining and storing at least two characteristic spectral lines at a predetermined pulse repetition frequency. The method further includes optimizing at least one of the Doppler imaging parameters based on the stored at least two characteristic spectral lines and a predetermined mean noise power. In one embodiment, the characteristic spectral lines are obtained by collecting in real time the Doppler spectral lines generated at the predetermined pulse repetition frequency within a predetermined time period, and processing the collected Doppler spectral lines in real time without storing them. |
| US08142358B2 |
Measurement method of time varying events in a target body and a method for displaying measurement data of different parameters of a target in which time dependent events occur
A measurement method of time varying events in a target body, including the steps of (a) providing time dependent measurements signals of parameters of the time varying events in the target body, (b) providing ecographic M-mode image data whose spatial direction is along scan-lines or along a line or curve on a 2D or 3D image of an image sequence, (c) defining a time interval within which the measurement signal has to be displayed and/or evaluated, (d) generating bi-dimensional graph information, (e) generating bi-dimensional M-mode images, (f) determining the time instant of begin of the time interval having a univoquely relation to time varying events, (g) rescaling the time scale of each graph, and (h) displaying the graph of the function corresponding to one or more of the time dependent measurement signal on a background. |
| US08142356B2 |
Method of manipulating tissue
Devices and methods for moving tissue and/or moving the devices relative to the tissue during a surgical procedure are disclosed. The devices and methods disclosed herein can be used in conventional, open surgical procedures, or in minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures. In one aspect, the method can be used to provide an enlarged opening in the stomach wall for transgastric access. |
| US08142353B2 |
Metal laryngoscope blade with illumination assembly
Metal laryngoscope blade including a resiliently elastically deformable metal blade hook-on fitting for removable double snap engagement into an operative intubation position on a metal laryngoscope handle with a correspondingly sized handle hook-on fitting, a metal spatula attached to the blade hook-on fitting and including a leading tip for transversely extending from the laryngoscope handle in the operative intubation position for insertion into a subject's mouth, and an illumination assembly including an electrical light source disposed toward the leading tip for providing illumination thereat for assisting intubation. |
| US08142352B2 |
Vaginal speculum assembly having portable illuminator
A portable illuminator includes a contained power source and an integrally contained light source that is selectively inserted into the handle portion of a vaginal speculum. The portable illuminator includes at least one feature to protect the illuminator from contamination and to prevent users from pinching or snagging gloves or fingers during operation. |
| US08142339B2 |
Method and apparatus for incorporating objects into cigarette filters
Cigarette filter rods having individual objects positioned at predetermined intervals therein are prepared by transferring the individual objects from a rotating horizontal pan to a rotating vertical wheel and then depositing the object into a web of filter tow. Each object is positioned within the moving web of tow. The web filter material and the objects positioned within the web are introduced into a rod-forming unit wherein the rod is formed. The rate of feed of the filter tow, the rate of rotation of the horizontal pan and the vertical wheel are controlled relative to one another such that objects are positioned at predetermined intervals along the rod. Cigarette filter elements having well controlled amounts of flavorant contained therein can be made from the rods. |
| US08142337B2 |
Exercise pole device
A device for performing physical exercise includes a substantially rigid elongated pole, an elastic band comprising components for attaching the elastic band to the pole, and an anchor component for securing the elastic band to an external object. |
| US08142334B2 |
Early rehabilitation training system
Provided is an early rehabilitation training system that increase the intensity of patient rehabilitation training to shorten the time it takes for patients to progress to a secondary rehabilitation training stage by allowing patients incapable of self-ambulation to be artificially rehabilitated in a prone, bed-ridden position. The system includes a treatment bed (2) configured with a mattress (2a), a base (2b) disposed below the mattress (2a) and coupled through a hinge to one end of the mattress (2a), and a tilting unit (2c) provided between the mattress (2a) and the base (2b) to adjust an upright angle of the mattress (2a); and a rotating unit (10) provided below the mattress (2a) of the treatment bed (2) to secure a patient's feet and provide artificial exercising of the patient's feet through gravity when the upright angle of the mattress (2a) is changed by the tilting unit (2c). |
| US08142333B2 |
Ropeless jump rope having replaceable tip
In a preferred embodiment, the present invention is a ropeless jump rope having a pair of handles wherein each handle comprises a housing having a removable rotatable tip at one end to which a flexible elongated member such as a rope, or string is secure to the tip such that an end portion of the flexible elongated member is attached to the tip in a manner substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the tip. Each handle further comprises a flexible support member positioned on the tip and the end portion of the flexible elongated member thereby preventing damage to the flexible elongated member during use of the invention. |
| US08142326B2 |
Multi-gear mechanism for power tools
A multi-gear mechanism includes first and second gear sets, an output set, multiple first planet gears pivotably connected between the first and second gear sets, a first gear ring having internal teeth and external teeth, multiple second planet gears cooperated with the internal teeth of the first gear ring, a second gear ring having internal teeth and side teeth, an operation gear ring and a motor gear. The motor gear extends through two central holes of the first and second gear sets, and the first and second planet gears are engaged with the motor gear. The operation gear ring is connected with the second gear ring which drives the operation gear ring to move axially. The motor gear drives the output set at low speed, constant speed or high speed when the operation gear ring and the second gear ring are operated to engage with different gears. |
| US08142325B2 |
Multi-speed transmission
A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least three to establish at least nine forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. |
| US08142321B2 |
Control drive with electric motor and planetary gear mechanism
A control drive, consisting of an electric motor and a planetary gear mechanism flush with the electric motor on the same axis of symmetry, comprising a ring gear, a planet carrier and three planet gears mounted on the planet carrier, the planet gears each having a front surface in the assembly direction in the area of their external teeth and the ring gear in the region of its internal teeth having three angle areas assigned to the planet gears of its end opposite the assembly direction in a defined angle position of the planet carrier to ring gear. The task of the present invention is to ensure that an economical and time-decoupled simple and rapid assembly of the three planet gears in the ring gear is possible without increasing the manufacturing expense on this account, in which only slight changes to existing forms are necessary. This task is solved in that the axial spacing between the front surface of the first planet gear and the first angle area of ring gear assigned to it differs from the axial spacing between the front surface of the second planet gear and the second angle area of ring gear assigned to it and the axial spacing between the front surface of the third planet gear and the third angle area of ring gear assigned to it. |
| US08142319B2 |
Transmission system
A sun gear of a first planetary gear train is connected to an input shaft. A carrier 9 of the first planetary gear train is connected to a sun gear of a second planetary gear train and to a first pump/motor. A ring gear of the first planetary gear train is connected to a second pump/motor, and a ring gear of the second planetary gear train is connected to an output shaft. A first clutch is provided for engaging and disengaging a carrier of the second planetary gear train and the ring gear of the first planetary gear train with and from each other, and a second clutch is provided for engaging and disengaging the carrier of the second planetary gear train and a fixed end with and from each other. |
| US08142318B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for a variable ratio transmission
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed to adjust input to output ratios with a planetary gear system. The apparatus comprises a sun gear that receives rotational force from a first input. A plurality of planet gears encircle the sun gear and operably connect with the sun gear. A planet gear carrier connects to the planet gears and transfers rotational energy to an output. A ring gear encircles the planet gears. The ring gear is a stator of an electric motor and rotational motion of the stator is a second input. The ring gear contains permanent magnets that align with the coils of the stator. The interaction of the permanent magnets and the coils provide the second input which adjusts rotational input to output torque and speed ratios. |
| US08142317B2 |
Power transmission apparatus of hybrid vehicle
A drive unit includes an input shaft connected to an engine, a power conversion unit including rotating electric machines and planetary gears to convert power applied from the input shaft, and gears as the power output unit transmitting power output from the power conversion unit to a drive shaft of the vehicle. Planetary gears of the power conversion unit are formed separately from the gears. The rotating electric machines of the power conversion unit are stored in a unitary case. |
| US08142315B2 |
Tensioner with hub load balancing feature
A tensioner assembly with a drive member, a tensioner arm, a shaft, a pivot bushing, a torsion spring and a load balancing element. The tensioner arm has a hub portion, a drive member mount and an arm disposed therebetween. The drive member is coupled to the drive member mount. The shaft is mounted coaxially within the hub portion. The pivot bushing has a frustoconical bearing surface, which engages a corresponding frustoconical surface in the hub portion, and is slidably mounted on the shaft. The torsion spring is received between the shaft and an outer wall of the hub portion and biases the tensioner arm about the shaft in a predetermined rotational direction. The load balancing element is received between and abuts the outer wall and the torsion spring to transmit a radially outwardly directed force generated by the torsion spring to the outer wall at a predetermined location. |
| US08142306B2 |
Interchangable shaft and club head connection system
Disclosed herein is a golf club including a shaft, a club head and several devices for releasably connecting the shaft to the club head. |
| US08142301B2 |
Measuring device for measuring hitting parameters of a golf club and associated calibration device
A measurement setup to determine hitting parameters of a golf club includes a group of reflectors with at least two strip-shaped reflectors with retroreflective surfaces applied to the golf club shaft. The group of reflectors is attached to the club shaft with a detachable, yet tight clamp-connection. At least three retroreflective areas are arranged in a determined geometry at the club shaft and/or at the group of reflectors. At least one first reflective light barrier sends its beam at a right angle to the ideal swing path of the club head near the tee and/or the golf ball at the group of reflectors. During the penetration of the beam the three strip-shaped retroreflective surfaces elicit temporally staggered pulse-shaped signals that the receiver of the first reflective light barrier receives and which it transmits to the data acquisition device. A calibration setup is also provided. |
| US08142298B2 |
Interactive activity system
An interactive activity system is disclosed. One embodiment includes a generator configured to produce electrical power based on physical interaction with a human being, a storage component configured to store the electrical power, and at least one play-oriented application configured to utilize a portion of the electrical power for operation. In one embodiment, the interactive activity system is implemented in a traditional, non-electronic playground environment. |
| US08142289B2 |
Dead reckoning in a gaming environment
Client position in a multi-client game is determined using dead reckoning. Clients send information to a server over a network. The server distributes this information to other clients. A client uses this information and dead reckoning to determine a character's position. The server may calculate the client's position using dead reckoning and send updates to clients when errors between actual and calculated positions exceed a threshold. Clients may calculate their position according to dead reckoning, and when an error between actual and calculated position exceeds a threshold, send updated information to other clients. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims. |
| US08142287B2 |
Universal controller for toys and games
A method, apparatus and system for interfacing with multiple gaming devices are disclosed. A universal controller includes a communication channel designed to selectively establish one or more bidirectional communication links between the controller and the gaming devices. A data collection unit communicatively coupled to the communication channel is designed to collect data related to a gaming experience of the first gaming device and a gaming experience of the second gaming device. The data collection unit is also designed to transfer to the second gaming device the gaming experience of the first gaming device to affect the gaming experience of the second gaming device. A storage unit communicatively coupled to the data collection unit is designed to store the collected data. Further, an input assembly that includes multiple input elements is included. Each input element is designed to be selectively mapped to one or more functions of the gaming devices. |
| US08142285B2 |
Game system and game program medium
A game system is composed by connecting a game apparatus with a monitor and a percussion type controller. A game player beats a first beating operation surface or a second beating operation surface to input an operation signal from the controller to the game apparatus. In the game apparatus, in response to the operation signal, a player character in a virtual world displayed on the monitor is moved in a left or a right direction. Furthermore, when a sound, input by clapping and so on in the vicinity of a microphone of the controller, is present, the game apparatus generates a shock wave from a position of the player character. By the shock wave, a predetermined change occurs, such as returning an enemy character to its initial position, gathering fairies in a form of block, and so forth. |
| US08142281B2 |
Gaming apparatus
The invention relates to a device which can be used in a gaming environment, typically to allow the user to place bets on specific games which are represented on the display screen of the device. The device is wireless which allows the user to be free to move around an area rather than be confined to a specific location to play the game. The device connects with a server via which bets can be placed and results notified to the device. The results data can be generated from a selected source such as a live game result or data generated by the server. |
| US08142280B2 |
Method and apparatus for conditional payouts in a gaming device
A gaming device incentivizes additional game play by combining payouts with conditional payouts. During game play, players are informed of the conditions, which must be satisfied so as to vest the conditional payouts. Subsequent game play is monitored to see if the player has satisfied the conditions. If the player has satisfied the conditions, then the conditional payout vests. If the condition is not met, then the conditional payout terminates. |
| US08142267B2 |
Method and system for training a baseball player
A method of training a baseball pitcher comprising the steps of providing a data processor, providing data capture devices which function to capture pitching data relating to the pitcher's pitching motion at a first location and which function to capture ball arrival data relating to the arrival of the pitched ball at a second location. The method further comprises providing a database storage device for storing predetermined pitching data and inputting personal data into said data processor. The method also includes capturing pitching data by said data capture devices relating to said pitcher's pitching motion at the first location, capturing ball arrival data by said data capture devices as the ball arrives at the second location, and inputting said pitching data, ball arrival data and predetermined pitching data into said data processor. The pitching data, ball arrival data and predetermined pitching data are processed in the data processor to generate output data. |
| US08142266B2 |
Threshing system including threshing elements having openings for grain passage
A threshing system for an agricultural harvester including a plurality of threshing elements supported on a rotor at spaced intervals in a generally helical pattern about an outer surface of the rotor, each threshing element including a set of discrete threshing bars including a leading threshing bar proximate the outer surface of the rotor and a succession of threshing bars located progressively farther from the outer surface forming a ramp and defining a wedge shaped opening between the threshing bars and the outer surface, each set of threshing bars extending generally axially along the rotor defining axially extending spaces therebetween sufficiently large for passage of grain therethrough to the wedge shaped opening. |
| US08142265B2 |
Motorized air vent
A motorized air register, air diffuser or vent for HVAC systems in commercial and residential applications comprises a supporting frame abutting a floor, wall or ceiling and a second depending frame for enclosing a damper. The damper is motor driven from a first fully open position to a second fully closed position. The damper can be controlled remotely from a wall consol or in accordance with thermostat logic. |
| US08142262B2 |
Sanding device with detachably mounted sanding element
The invention relates to a grinding device, comprising a mounting body which is detachably connected to a grinding element, said detachable connection being designed such that the mounting body has a first adhering arrangement and the grinding element has a second adhering element and the adhering elements correspond in the manner of a Velcro fastener. The aim of the invention is to improve the quality and efficiency of the detachable connection for exchange of the grinding element of the claimed grinding device. Said aim is achieved, wherein the first adhering element (1) and the second adhering element (2) comprise a number of projections (3) each with a cross-sectional widening in the direction of the free end (7) of the projection (3). |
| US08142261B1 |
Methods for enhancing chemical mechanical polishing pad processes
The present invention discloses a CMP device and methods that are capable of improving CMP processing through incorporation of vibration sources which produce vibrations in a direction substantially parallel to the working surface of the CMP pad. The CMP device includes a CMP pad dresser. Such a method can include steps of vibrating a CMP pad, CMP pad dresser, or wafer in a direction substantially parallel to a working surface of the CMP pad and engaging the CMP pad dresser with a working surface of a CMP pad The results of vibrating the superabrasive particles can provide benefits to both the CMP pad and dresser, according to several aspects disclosed herein. |
| US08142259B2 |
Grinding machine and method
A grinding machine includes a holding table adapted to hold a workpiece, a grinding unit operative to grind the workpiece held on the holding piece, and a grinding unit transfer mechanism operative to shift the grinding unit in a direction coming close to or moving away from the workpiece. The grinding unit includes a porous pad having fine pores opposed to the workpiece, a gel-like slurry storing portion provided on the porous pad so as to store a gel-like slurry therein, and a water supply unit to supply water between the porous pad and the workpiece. The porous pad contains relatively larger superabrasives at least at an outer circumferential portion. The fine pores of the porous pad have a diameter greater than that of relatively small superabrasives contained in the gel-like slurry. |
| US08142253B2 |
Turkey call with interchangeable paddle/striker
A box turkey call comprising a sound box with a bottom wall, side walls, front end wall and back end wall, a first quick changeable attachment component secured to the front end wall, a striker having a front end, a distal back end, a top surface and a bottom surface, where the back end of the striker comprises an integrated handle, where the bottom surface of the striker is rounded laterally, and where the front end of the striker has a second quick changeable attachment component, where the first quick changeable attachment component and the second quick changeable attachment component are in pivotal but quickly detachable engagement. |
| US08142252B1 |
Amusement methods and apparatus
Items are releasably interconnected to one another to create amusing assemblies. In one particular application, a humanoid figurine is mounted on a base, which in turn, is mounted on an article of clothing. For example, a LEGO figurine is press fitted onto a base, and the base is secured beneath a closure on a shoe. In another example, the base is secured to the bill of a visor. In still other examples, the base is secured to a shirt pocket or a shirt button. In various applications, the base is configured to support the figurine in more than one orientation. Furthermore, the base or other first item may be provided with one or more walls that surround the figurine or other second item. |
| US08142249B2 |
Manufacturing method of display device
To prevent bubbles from remaining when a transparent substrate is bonded via an adhesive with a display panel. A manufacturing method of a display device in which a transparent substrate is bonded with a display panel via an adhesive, including a coating step of coating the adhesive onto the display panel or the transparent substrate in a predetermined pattern, a bonding step of bonding the display panel and the transparent substrate via the adhesive after the coating step, and a curing step of curing the adhesive after the bonding step, characterized in that the adhesive has a viscosity of 2000 to 5000 mPa·s at the coating step, the display panel and the transparent substrate are bonded via the adhesive in a reduced pressure atmosphere lower than the atmospheric pressure in a state where the adhesive coated at the coating step is spread and the size of bubble is 1 mm or less at maximum at the bonding step, and the adhesive is cured by applying ultraviolet ray at the curing step. |
| US08142246B2 |
Fuel supply system for boat and outboard motor
A fuel supply system for a boat, which prevents fuel piping from becoming complicated, includes a vapor separator unit connected to a fuel tank that is mounted on a hull and holds fuel supplied to an engine section, a low-pressure pump arranged to discharge the fuel reserved in the fuel tank into the vapor separator unit, and a mounting hole for a valve, a fuel passage section, and a pipe section (relief path) that return the fuel discharged by the low-pressure pump to the suction opening section side of the low-pressure pump when a tank section is filled with a predetermined amount of fuel. The mounting hole for the valve, the fuel passage section, and the pipe section (relief path) are integral with the vapor separator unit. |
| US08142243B2 |
Outboard engine unit
Outboard engine body is mounted via a swivel shaft to a stern bracket. Angle sensor, provided on the stern bracket, includes a contact having a maximum operating angle set to be not greater than half of a maximum steered angle of the engine body, and it outputs detection information indicative of an operating angle of the contact. Curved member is provided on the engine body and normally held in engagement with the contact, and it has a continuously varying radius of curvature from the central axis of the swivel shaft, so that the contact varies in operating angle while sliding along a curved outer peripheral surface of the curved member in response to steering operation. Thus, a steered angle is determined on the basis of the detection information from the angle sensor. |
| US08142241B2 |
Water jet propulsion watercraft
A water jet propulsion watercraft includes a hull, an engine disposed inside the hull, a jet propulsion device arranged to be driven by a driving force of the engine, a water detection unit arranged to detect whether or not the hull is immersed in water, and a control unit arranged to restrict an engine rotational speed. The jet propulsion device is arranged to jet water rearward from a jet port to thereby apply a propulsive force to the hull. The water detection unit includes a water detection chamber arranged such that water around the hull is introduced when the hull is in water, and a water level sensor arranged to detect a water level inside the water detection chamber. The control unit is arranged to judge whether or not the hull is in water based on an output signal of the water level sensor and to set a maximum rotational speed of the engine to a rotational speed less than an upper limit rotational speed so as to restrict the rotational speed of the engine to not more than the maximum rotational speed when the hull is not in water. |
| US08142240B2 |
Lead pin for package substrate
Disclosed herein is a lead pin for a package substrate.The lead pin for the package substrate includes a cylindrical connection pin; and a head part that is formed on one end of the connection pin and has a convex round part formed on the lower end of the head part, having a step part. When the lead pin for the package substrate is mounted on the package substrate, the bulge phenomenon of a solder paste that surrounds the head part and is melted is prevented by a flange part, thereby making it possible to prevent the connection pin from being polluted and to improve a contact defect such as a short defect or the like when coupling a socket. |
| US08142239B2 |
Power supply terminal structure
A contact terminal which prevents a load from being concentrated on the contact terminal portion thereof when a part is disposed on a substrate, to prevent contact terminals from being short-circuited even if stacked, thereby reducing the overall space requirement. A projection is formed on a terminal base and the movable range of a contact is limited by the projection, whereby the load that is conventionally concentrated on a terminal support part can be distributed by a support part and the projection. Consequently, the durability of the terminal portion can be enhanced, the space for the contact terminal portion is saved, and a short circuit is prevented from occurring due to the contacting between the contact terminals. |
| US08142237B2 |
Device for measuring a current flowing in a cable
An exemplary embodiment relates to a measuring device for measuring a current flowing in a first cable. The measuring device includes a measuring shunt in the form of a plate connected in series with the first cable and associated with a measuring electronic card connected to a data transmission cable. The measuring shunt further includes a measuring portion of resistive alloy coupled to connection portions on either side of the measuring portion. The connection portions are integrally formed with the measuring portion, and the first cable is secured to at least one of the connection portions of the measuring shunt. |
| US08142234B2 |
Terminal block and method of assembling it
A terminal block (10) has a housing (20), a busbar mounting portion (23) formed in the housing (20), nut accommodating recesses (27) formed in the busbar mounting portion (23) for holding nuts (N) mounted in a first direction (D1), a busbar (30) mounted into the busbar mounting portion (23) in a second direction (D2) intersecting the first direction (D1) and holding the nuts (N) in the nut accommodating recesses (27), busbar pressers (23B) provided in the busbar mounting portion (23) for restricting a movement of the busbar (30) in the busbar mounting portion (23) in a direction opposite to the first direction (D1), and locks (28) provided in the busbar mounting portion (23) for restricting movement of the busbar (30) in the busbar mounting portion (23) in a direction opposite to the second direction (D2). |
| US08142231B2 |
Connector assembly featured with quick-release mechanism
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing and a first and second contact received in the housing. The housing defines a mating face, a rear face opposite to the mating face, and a supporting face disposed between the mating and rear faces. A mating cavity recesses from the mating face towards the supporting face and disposed therebetween, and a receiving groove recesses forwards from the rear face and runs through the supporting face to communicate with the mating cavity. The first contact is retained in the receiving groove with an elastic contacting porting running through the supporting face and projecting into the mating cavity. The second contact is retained in the housing and includes two opposite second contacting portions disposed at two opposite sides of the elastic contacting portion of the first contact. A mating connector can be rotated to disengage from the electrical connector. |
| US08142230B2 |
Earphone assembly and electronic device using the same
An earphone assembly includes a plug, a switch element; and a USB connector. The USB connector is rotatably assembled to the switch element and electronically connects the plug. The invention further discloses an electronic device including an earphone assembly and a plug seat. The earphone assembly includes a plug, a switch element, and a USB connector. The USB connector is rotatably assembled to the switch element and electronically connects the plug. The plug seat is assembled in the electronic device for receiving the plug. |
| US08142229B1 |
Card connector with cam feature for facilitating insertion of a card
A card connector (100) defining a card receiving space, includes an insulative housing (2), a number of contacts (3) retained in the insulative housing, a slider (41) moveably assembled on the insulative housing, and a spring (42) compressed between the insulative housing and the slider. The insulative housing has an elastic rear latch (232) and a cam block (231) attached below the rear latch. The slider has a main portion (411) and an extension portion (412) protruding rearward from the main portion. The extension portion has a bearing surface (4121) for deflecting the cam block. The rear latch together with the cam block is deflected away from the card receiving space by the bearing surface when the slider is at an original rear position. |
| US08142228B1 |
Charger and adapter plug assembly
The invention provides a charger and adapter plug assembly including a first adapter plug, a second adapter plug, a third adapter plug and a charger. The first adapter plug has a set of AU standard pins and a first storage cavity with a first socket therein. The charger has two flat straight pins on one end and a USB port on the other end. The charger is detachably stored into the first storage cavity, so as to make the two flat straight pins electrically plugged into the first socket. The second adapter plug has a set of UK standard pins, a second storage cavity with an EU socket therein and an AU socket. The first adapter plug is detachably assembled to the second adapter plug, so as to make the AU standard pins electrically plugged into the AU socket. The third adapter plug has a set of EU pins and a second socket. The third adapter plug is detachably stored into the second storage cavity, so as to make the EU standard pins electrically plugged into the EU socket. |
| US08142227B1 |
Multifunctional base for energy saving lamps
A multifunctional base for energy saving lamps includes a base body defining an inner receiving space and provided with a bottom through hole and a side opening; a circuit board vertically mounted in the receiving space of the base body and having a power conversion circuit provided thereon; and a set of spring conductive strips including at least a first and a second spring conductive strip. The first spring conductive strip has an end electrically connected to the circuit board and another end protruded from the base body via the bottom through hole; and the second spring conductive strip has an end electrically connected to the circuit board and another end protruded from the base body via the side opening. The first and second spring conductive strips act to enable increased contact tightness between the lamp base and a lamp socket. |
| US08142223B2 |
Universal cable connector with interchangeable color bands
A connector of termination assembly for a mini-coaxial cable in different embodiments is made up of an extension tip which is preassembled in a connector body to receive the inner conductor pin on the cable, a first inner sleeve which fits over an exposed end of the dielectric layer, a second outer sleeve which surrounds a compression ring, and a crimping ring is mounted on the outside of the outer sleeve to force the sleeves to be radially contracted into crimping engagement with the cable. Variations of the connector body may be employed for different types of connectors including modifications in the extension tip to facilitate insertion of the conductor into the assembly and color bands to signify the size of cable and intended application. |
| US08142222B2 |
Jumper
A jumper includes a casing, and two conductive members. The casing defines a first receiving space in a first end, and a second and a third receiving spaces in a second end opposite to the first end. The conductive members are received in the first receiving space. |
| US08142218B2 |
Electrical push-pull plug connector
An electrical plug connector based on the push-pull system, with a plug component and a matching plug component that can be connected to the plug component, both of which each include one or several associated electrical contacts held by a contact carrier, and with a locking mechanism that is provided on the plug component and includes at least one movable locking element with a latch surface that is associated, on the matching plug component, with a fixed locking element with a matching surface for the latch surface. The plug component includes a plug component housing with an axially displaceable sliding sleeve with an actuation element for the locking element formed on the inside wall, wherein, when the plug component is connected to the matching plug component, a—in the plug-in direction—frontal section of the circumferential wall area of the plug component housing overlaps the matching plug component on the outside in a plug-in area. The locking element projects radially beyond an inner surface of the circumferential wall area, and the locking of the locking element with the matching locking element is achieved by moving the locking element transversely to the plug-in direction of the plug connector along the circumferential wall area. |
| US08142213B2 |
Connector
A connector which can avoid lowering of a waterproof performance between a frame and a sub-housing. First and second housings are engaged by rotating a lever mounted on the first housing. The second housing has a second frame and second sub-housings are accommodated in accommodating spaces formed in the second frame. A cam follower is formed on an outer surface of a dual-purpose outer wall that faces the accommodating space out of the second frame. A seal is provided between an outer periphery of the second sub-housing and an inner periphery of the accommodating space. A frame-shaped restricting member is assembled to the second frame and surrounds the second frame to restrict outward displacement of the dual-purpose wall. |
| US08142209B2 |
Electrical connector with improved contacts arrangement
An electrical connector (100) includes an insulative housing (1) having a base (11) and a tongue plate (12) protruding beyond the base (11); a set of contacts (2) having contacting portions (26) arranged in one row along one side of the tongue plate (12), the contacts (2) consisting of a first type of grounding contacts (G) and a second type of a set of pairs of differential contacts (24, 23, 22, 21), the differential contacts comprising a first pair of differential contacts (24) for bi-directionally transmitting data and a second pair of differential contacts (23) for unidirectionally transmitting data, in the contacting portions (26), the grounding contacts having at least two grounding contacts (G1, G2) arranged between the first pair of differential contacts (24) and the second pair of differential contacts (23); and a metal shell (3) covering the insulative housing (1) and having a receiving space (30) for the tongue plate (12) extending into. |
| US08142205B2 |
Electronic apparatus
An electronic apparatus includes a housing; a terminal block fixed to the housing at both ends thereof in a width direction; and a printed circuit board extending in a depth direction of the terminal block, one end of the printed circuit board in the depth direction being fixed to the housing, and the other end of the print circuit board in the depth direction being fixed to the terminal block at a position below the terminal block. |
| US08142204B2 |
Automation appliance which uses the same configuration plug connectors for connecting antenna plug and coaxial cable
An automation appliance with at least one wireless communication interface has electronics arranged on a printed circuit board, where the printed circuit board is in a housing having externally accessible plug connectors. A plug connector is connected to the communication interface electronics and is aligned adjacent to the printed circuit board in the area of the interface electronics. The plug connector has a center contact for RF signal connection surrounded by outer contacts that provide RF shielding. Another plug connector of similar mechanical design is also provided which provides for cable based communications interface and is not a RF plug. |
| US08142202B2 |
Socket connector bridging motherboards arranged at different levels
An electrical socket comprises a socket body and a plurality of contacts. The socket body comprises a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section each having a plurality of contacts received therein, the first section defining an upper face being spaced away from a top face of the second section in a vertical direction. |
| US08142201B2 |
Electrical connector assembly having pick-up cap
A pick-up cap includes a main portion having a planar top surface with a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. Four latches are positioned at the two ends of the main portion and extend from the main portion, respectively. Each latch has a hook extending downwardly. And a supporting portion extending downwardly and being adjacent to the hook. The supporting portion is lower than the hook in a vertical direction to engage with an insulative housing to protect the hook during the pick-up cap is disassembled from the insulative housing. |
| US08142197B2 |
Cross country course rating system and method
A system and method of rating a cross-country course. The method includes for accurately and consistently measuring a length of a cross-country course and rating a difficultly of the cross-country course. |
| US08142195B2 |
Chinese character learning system
A system of materials facilitates teaching Chinese characters to a child in progressive stages, whether or not the teacher is fluent in Chinese. Each stage associates a multi-colored object with a correspondingly multi-colored Chinese character that represents the object. For a child from birth to two years, a first stage material animates the object and morphs the object into the corresponding Chinese character. For a child two to four years, a second stage material to be read to the child by the teacher displays the object adjacent to the character, and material provides interactive means for the child to associate the object with the character. For a child four to seven years, a third stage story book displays text containing a sentence made of multiple characters and a scene corresponding to the meaning of the sentence, and for a child seven to nine years, a fourth stage group book presents multiple Chinese characters that share a common group element, whether meaning or sound. The materials may include explanatory Chinese and non-Chinese text with Pin Yin and teaching tips for kinesthetic learning. The materials may each comprise separately executable programs in a common software module, for example, in DVD format. |
| US08142188B2 |
Light curing device/base station combination
The invention relates to a light curing device/base station combination, comprising a heat absorbing element, which is in particular metallic, and which is in thermally conducting connection with a heat source, in particular a light source, and in particular comprising a handle. The base station (12) has for the light curing device (14) a heat dissipating device(27), which lies against the heat absorbing element (24) when the light curing device (14) is accommodated in or on the base station (12). |
| US08142182B2 |
Injection molding apparatus having a magnetic valve pin coupling
A magnetic coupling for an injection molding apparatus, such as a hot half or hot runner, includes a first magnetic part for connection to an actuator, a valve pin plate, or the like and a movable second magnetic part for connection to a valve pin. The first magnetic part and the second magnetic part are coupled by a magnetic force. The first magnetic part can be part of the actuator. The second magnetic part can be part of the valve pin. A valve pin plate can be provided for a plurality of valve pins. |
| US08142180B2 |
Forming wire
An improved forming wire is described. A forming wire in a first embodiment comprises a base comprising a structure with a bore therethrough, a first support arm and a second support arm, each said arm projecting normally from said base, each said arm having a proximal tip connected to said base and a distal tip remote from said base, a bending loop having an arcuate shape and extending from the distal tip of the first support arm to the distal tip of the second support arm, an inner arm having a helical shape and extending from the distal tip of the first support arm to the base; and an outer arm having a helical shape and extending from the distal tip of the second support arm to a point above the base, thereby defining a space between the base and the outer arm. In other embodiments, the forming wire has a single support arm. In some embodiments, the forming wire is made of poly-tetrafluoroethylene tubing over stainless steel rods. |
| US08142178B2 |
Device for desolventising under reduced pressure
The invention provides a continuous process for removing organic solvents from a marc including the steps of: continuously introducing the marc into a desolventiser; introducing an inert, gaseous stripping medium into the desolventiser; removing the organic solvents from the marc by maintaining a sub-atmospheric pressure inside the desolventiser, thus providing an organic solvent-desolventised material; and continuously extracting the organic solvent-desolventised material from the desolventiser; wherein step (a) and (d) comprise compacting the marc and the organic solvent-desolventised material into a first and second plastic, substantially gas-impermeable mass respectively and extruding the first and second plastic mass through an annular gap, the opening of which is controlled by the rate of supply of the first and second plastic mass. The invention also provides a device for compacting a moist organic material into a first plastic gas-impermeable mass which is useful for implementing this process. |
| US08142177B2 |
Installation for blow moulding hollow bodies, comprising a pressurized temperature-controlled fluid circuit
Installation (1) for blow molding hollow bodies, comprising at least one mold carrier (2) to which a removable mold (3) can be connected via fluid connection means (4), at least one pressurized temperature-controlled fluid circuit (5) passing through the carrier and mold, and automatic circuit (5) shutoff means provided in the carrier (2); which circuit (5) has a fluid connection to at least one chamber (8) having a variable volume that depends on an external pressure applied to said chamber (8) by means (9) for generating an auxiliary fluid at a pressure that is adjustable between the pressure of the temperature-controlled fluid and atmospheric pressure, by means of which the pressure of the pressurized temperature-controlled fluid can be reduced in said chamber (8) by decompression. |
| US08142174B2 |
Air pump set
An air pump set includes an air pump, at least two air distributors and a pressure reducer. At least two air distributors are serially connected with the air pump for further distributing the pressurized air to respective air-requiring targets. The pressure reducer is serially connected between any adjacent two of the at least two distributors for reducing the pressure of the pressurized air to a downstream one of any adjacent two of the at least two distributors. The pressure reducer includes a hollow cylinder and a cylinder core. The hollow cylinder includes a first pair of inlet and outlet and a second pair of inlet and outlet. The cylinder core is loosely fitted within the hollow cylinder, and comprises a first air channel and a second air channel. The cylinder core is rotatable between a first position and a second position relative to the hollow cylinder. |
| US08142173B2 |
Variable displacement vane pump
In a variable displacement vane pump employing a cam ring, a pump rotor, and a plurality of vanes, each slidably fitted into the rotor, a biasing member is provided to force the cam ring in a direction that a geometric center of an inner peripheral surface of the cam ring and a rotation center of the rotor are spaced apart from each other. A force, by which the cam ring can be oscillated against the biasing member in accordance with a buildup of a pressure in a pump discharge portion, acts on the inner peripheral surface of the cam ring. |
| US08142172B2 |
Silencer designed and intended for a compressor
A silencer operative for a compressor or a vacuum pump, in particular for a compressor or a vacuum pump that operate according to the displacement principle, which in either case compresses a current of gas, in particular an air current, such that the silencer includes an entrance for the gas current that leaves the compressor, as well as an exit, the silencer including a branching region having an inflow channel which branches into two channel sections, such that a first channel section is constructed as a main conduit to conduct the gas current further, and a second channel section forms a branch that is closed at its end. The branch has an axial preferential direction oriented parallel to the direction of flow of the gas current in the inflow channel, so that the gas current impinges frontally on the branch that is closed at its end. |
| US08142171B2 |
Electric pump unit and electric oil pump
An electric pump unit includes an outer rotor, an inner rotor which meshes with the outer rotor in such a state that the inner rotor and the outer rotor are placed eccentrically to each other and which is driven by being supported by a rotation shaft of an electric motor, a pump housing which defines a cavity portion which accommodates therein the outer rotor and the inner rotor, inlet and outlet ports which are provided on inlet and outlet sides, respectively, so as to suck and discharge a fluid and which communicate with each other via the cavity portion, and a fluid circulating unit for circulating the fluid from the outlet side to the inlet side when a fluid pressure at the outlet side reaches or exceeds a predetermined pressure. |
| US08142170B2 |
Radial piston pump
A radial piston pump having external loading. The radial piston pump has an inner eccentric which is attached to a rotatable driveshaft, a cylinder block which has positionally fixed cylinder bores aligned radially with respect to the driveshaft, and displacement pistons which are mounted in a longitudinally movable manner in the cylinder bores. The displacement pistons have a piston head with a short casing height, and are mounted with their piston base on the eccentric, in such a way that the piston head, during its longitudinal movement, pivots in a predetermined angle range (Δα) about the longitudinal central axis of the associated cylinder bore. |
| US08142167B2 |
Paddlewheel apparatus
A paddlewheel apparatus including a paddlewheel axle, first and second spaced apart annular wheel hubs locked in rotation with the axle, and a plurality of elongated tri-curved paddles cooperatively supported by the first and second wheel hubs and arranged around the circumference of the first and second annular wheel hubs and spaced apart from the paddlewheel axle. A method for creating current in a bio-pond raceway. |
| US08142166B2 |
Hub for a horizontal axis wind turbine
To provide a lightweight hub of a horizontal axis wind turbine with a balanced strength, the hub 1 related to the present invention comprises a reinforcement plate 4 coupled to the spherical shell 2 on the peripheral edge in the round region G inside the circular flange 3 used to secure a blade. In addition to being off-center at the point C side, an off-center opening 5, that contains the center B of the region G, is formed in the region G. The reinforcement plate 4 is formed at the remainder portion of the region G after removing the off-center opening 5. By means of an unequal arrangement of the reinforcement plate 4 and the opening 5 on the inside of the circular flange 3, severe imbalances due to the casting of the hub 1 are cancelled and a balanced strength is obtained, making it also easier to reduce the weight. |
| US08142165B2 |
Aerofoil
An aerofoil 31, 43, 56 is provided by layers of material with at least one layer of the material being relatively stiff while other layers of material are less dense but are subject to less stress within the aerofoil. Thus, by judicious positioning of the stiffer layers of material an effective operational aerofoil is achieved, with the other layers of material having a lower stiffness but also lower mass so that the overall mass of the aerofoil is reduced. It will be understood by appropriate positioning of the layers of material it is possible to tune the aerofoil for deformation and vibrational response effects, particularly under impact loading from bird strikes etc. |
| US08142164B2 |
Rotor blade for use with a wind turbine and method for assembling rotor blade
A method for assembling a rotor blade for use with a wind turbine. The method includes providing a blade sidewall at least partially defining a cavity extending from a blade root towards a blade tip of the rotor blade, the blade sidewall having a leading edge and a trailing edge. A structural support assembly is positioned at least partially within the cavity and extends from the blade root towards the blade tip. The structural support assembly includes a root end and an opposing tip end. At least one support member is coupled to the blade sidewall and to the structural support assembly. |
| US08142161B2 |
Replaceable staking insert
A rotating assembly. The rotating assembly may include a wheel, a slot positioned about the wheel with the slot having a staking recess positioned therein, a wheel attachment positioned within the slot, and a staking insert positioned within the staking recess. The staking recess axially retains the staking insert and the wheel attachment radially retains the staking insert. |
| US08142160B2 |
High speed type impeller having a reinforcing ring
Disclosed is a high speed type impeller, including: a body having a shaft coupling hole into which a rotation shaft of a motor is coupled, the outer circumference of the body being widened from the top to bottom end in the insertion direction of the rotation shaft to form a bent surface, a step portion shadowed in the radial direction being formed on the top end of the body; a plurality of blades installed on the bent surface of the body to be bent at a predetermined angle to the rotation shaft direction; and an upper reinforcing ring installed at the step portion of the body. Even through the impeller is made of a low cost material, the reinforcing ring reinforces the weak portion of the impeller to improve durability. Reliability of the impeller is attained with high economical efficiency. |
| US08142159B2 |
Fan and motor thereof
A fan includes a plurality of blades and a motor. The motor includes a hub and a shaft having an end connected to the hub, a bushing, a bearing, and an oil-sealing structure. The blades are connected with and surrounding around the hub. The bushing is for supporting the other end of the shaft, and the bearing is disposed in the bushing and used to telescope the shaft. The shaft passes through the oil-sealing structure. The oil-sealing structure is telescoped to the shaft to fit tightly and the oil-sealing structure includes a main body and a barricade inwardly extending toward the shaft so that the oil-sealing structure is fixedly connected with the bushing. |
| US08142152B2 |
Connection of radial arms to a circular sleeve via axes and spacers
The connection assembly of an arm to a sleeve is carried out substantially by parts of axes crossing the arm and the spacers between the parts of axes and the sleeve and the assembly bolts. The assembly and the disassembly are easy, even with highly reduced encumbrance, as the connection is light and devoid of high internal efforts, and a good position precision is obtained. The assembly may be applied to stators with an exterior sleeve and, an interior hub and radial link arms, which are encountered in certain turbomachines. |
| US08142143B2 |
Guide vane for a gas turbine
A stator blade for a gas turbine includes a blade airfoil extending in a longitudinal direction of the blade and is delimited by leading and trailing edges. The stator blade includes a shroud, whose inner side is exposed to hot gas which flows through the gas turbine. A hook-like fastening element for fastening the stator blade on a casing of the gas turbine projects outwards in the region of the trailing edge. The fastening element has a locating slot above the trailing edge for fixing a heat shield, which is connected to the shroud in the flow direction of the hot gas. A cavity is provided on the shroud between the locating slot for the heat shield and the trailing edge of the blade airfoil for reducing the thermal and mechanical stresses in the region of transition between the trailing edge and shroud. |
| US08142141B2 |
Apparatus for turbine engine cooling air management
An exemplary embodiment of the invention is directed to a turbine engine having a rotatable turbine rotor assembly, a stationary nozzle assembly disposed adjacent thereto and a wheel space defined therebetween. The wheel space receives cooling air therein and includes a sealing feature located on the first, rotatable turbine rotor assembly and extending axially into the wheel space and a sealing land assembly having a sealing land associated with a moveable member installed in an opening in the second, stationary nozzle assembly. A biasing member constructed of shape memory alloy is associated with the moveable member and operates to bias the moveable member, and associated sealing land, axially into the wheel space towards the sealing feature as the turbine engine transitions from a cold state to a hot state to reduce the release of cooling air from within the wheel space. |
| US08142139B2 |
Fan unit having an axial fan with improved noise damping
Due to variations arising during manufacturing, axial fans often are slightly imbalanced, resulting in noise during operation, which is undesirable in many contexts, for example when the fan is used for ventilation purposes in a motor vehicle. A fan with improved vibration and noise damping can be achieved by elastically suspending the fan wheel within a first ring formed of a hard plastic, the first ring having a tubular extension formed of a softer plastic, and serving to mechanically connect the first ring to a surrounding annular carrier part. Optionally, the first ring and extension unit can include a spring element. Preferably, the first ring and tubular extension are produced by a multi-component forming technology such as two-plastic technology. The fan is preferably driven by an electronically commutated motor (ECM). |
| US08142138B2 |
Turbine engine having cooling pin
In one embodiment, a turbine system may include a turbine casing, a shroud block coupled to the turbine casing, a fluid passage in the shroud block; and a pin configured to interface with the fluid passage. The pin may include a hollow shaft; a rod inserted into the hollow shaft; and a valve disposed on a distal end of the rod, wherein the valve is configured to open and close the fluid passage when the rod is actuated remotely through the hollow shaft. |
| US08142137B2 |
Cooled gas turbine vane assembly
A gas turbine vane to improve vane performance by addressing known failure mechanisms. A cooling circuit to the trailing edge of a vane airfoil is fed from the outer diameter platform, which prevents failure due to an oxidized and eroded airfoil trailing edge. The gas turbine includes an outer diameter platform, a hollow airfoil and an inner diameter platform with a plurality of cooling tubes extending radially through the airfoil. The cooling tubes are open at the outer diameter end and closed with covers at the inner diameter end. The inner diameter platform is also cooled and includes a meterplate for a portion of the cooling passageway and includes an undercut to improve thermal deflections of the inner diameter platform. |
| US08142132B2 |
Automatic over-center system
The present invention is directed to a control circuit for automatically bringing a hydraulically operated work arm into a particular position without having to manually reverse the direction of the hydraulic operating system. |
| US08142130B2 |
Safety cone placing device and method
Automatic placement of safety cones from a moving vehicle is provided. The preferred safety cone would have a flexible cone part. A receptacle holds a plurality of safety cones either with the flexible cone part in non-compressed position or in spring-loaded position. The receptacle is removably attached to the vehicle. A releasing means that is attached to the receptacle is controlled and advances the safety cones in an automatic and controlled fashion, one-by-one, to different locations on a ground surface from a moving vehicle. The advantage is that it automatically handles the placement of a plurality of safety cones while driving. There would be no more need for a person to manually place the safety cones. It provides for increased road safety since it decreases or even eliminates the number of fatal or non-fatal accidents as well as chronic injuries of road-workers that are involved in placing safety cones. |
| US08142125B2 |
Self-attaching female fastener
A self-attaching nut for attachment to a panel including a central pilot portion having a generally cylindrical outer surface, a flange portion surrounding the outer surface of the pilot portion including an annular groove surrounding the pilot portion having a substantially V-shaped bottom wall and a generally planar panel support surface surrounding the annular groove. The panel support surface includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced radial ribs extending into the annular groove, but spaced from the outer surface of the pilot portion. The grooves may be convex or concave or a combination of convex and concave grooves. In one embodiment, the nuts are rectangular and the back face include two pair of transverse linear grooves for interconnection by frangible wires in side to side relation. |
| US08142115B2 |
Twist drill for drilling with a countersink cutting arrangement, and a cutting tool with a countersink cutting arrangement, and a cutting-chamfering tool
A twist drill for drilling with a countersink cutting arrangement, and a cutting tool with a countersink cutting arrangement, and a cutting-chamfering tool. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner. |
| US08142113B2 |
Throwaway insert and milling tool equipped with the same
A throwaway insert enabling the use of a holder for a long period and having excellent chip evacuation is provided. The throwaway insert is formed in a substantially polygonal plate shape and includes a rake face formed on an upper surface thereof, a relief face formed on a side surface thereof, a main cutting edge formed along a ridge representing an intersection of the rake face and the relief face, which is divided into a plurality of main cutting edge divisions by at least one groove formed on the relief face, and a projection formed so as to protrude from the rake face in correspondence with each of the main cutting edge divisions. |
| US08142108B2 |
Riser installation method from an offshore production unit
A riser installation method including the steps of providing a first vessel situated over a hydrocarbon well, supporting a hydrocarbon transfer duct from the first vessel by a first end that is attached to a lowering device on the first vessel, and attaching a second end of the hydrocarbon duct to a second vessel, at a position near the first vessel. The method also includes the steps of lowering the transfer duct, increasing the distance of the second vessel from the first vessel, pulling the transfer duct until the second vessel is near the third vessel, contacting a section of the transfer duct with the sea bed, displacing the second end of the transfer duct from the first vessel, returning the second end of the transfer duct to the mooring position, and bringing the second end of the hydrocarbon transfer duct in fluid communication with the third vessel. |
| US08142106B2 |
Subsurface sewage disposal and wastewater treatment system
A modular subsurface sewage disposal and wastewater treatment system is presented for treating effluent from a septic tank. The system includes an elongated member, leach field medium and at least one pipe. The elongated member is arranged in one of a serpentine or a ladder-shaped configuration and includes a core wrapped in a fabric. The medium is disposed about open areas in the configuration. The pipe uniformly distributes effluent from the septic tank to the elongated member. In one embodiment, the core is a pliable plastic membrane and the fabric wrap is a non-woven fabric. In one embodiment, the elongated member is disposed in a box and retained by an adhesive to permit ease of manufacture, shipping, and installation. In another embodiment, the elongated member is disposed in a rigid or semi-rigid frame defining channels retaining the elongated member. The frame is detectable by a non-invasive above surface detector. |
| US08142103B2 |
Wireless sensor with kinetic energy power arrangement
A system and method for sensing surface compaction effected by a compactor machine of the type having a vibrating compacting roller, and providing a sensor signal indicating sensed surface compaction to a control mounted on the compactor machine, includes a sensor for sensing compaction and providing a signal indicating sensed surface compaction. The sensor is mounted on the compacting roller support of the compactor machine. The system includes a vibration-to-electric energy converter, mounted with the sensor on the compacting roller support and subjected to vibration. The converter converts the vibration energy to electric energy which may be supplied to the sensor and to a transmitter. The transmitter is powered by the electric energy from said vibration-to-electric energy converter and transmits the sensor signal to a receiver on the machine. The receiver provides the sensor signal to a control for the machine. |
| US08142102B2 |
Road surface overlay system
A road surface overlay system including a road surface, an adhesive material that is applied to a portion or all of the road surface, a woven member including fiber bundles, wherein each of the fiber bundles are substantially embedded in the adhesive material and a layer of aggregate applied onto the woven member and the adhesive material. A method of forming a road surface overlay system is also provided. |
| US08142099B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission that includes an input shaft; an output shaft; and a speed change mechanism portion that shifts a rotation of the input shaft to be transmitted to the output shaft, wherein: the output shaft has a spline formed in a range in which the output shaft fits in a power transmission shaft included in a vehicle, and n-stage (n is an integer of at least 2) chamfering is performed on a larger diameter portion of the spline. |
| US08142090B2 |
Cosmetic product and method of applying a mascara composition
A cosmetic product includes a mascara composition and a treatment device, whereby the mascara composition is applied to the eyelashes by softening the mascara composition via heat. The mascara composition is solid at room temperature, however is softened at elevated temperature, so it may be applied to the eyelashes. The treatment device includes an applicator for receiving, heating to soften, and applying the softened mascara composition to the eyelashes. Once the softened mascara composition is applied to the eyelashes, the mascara composition is quickly cooled and thus solidified by the atmosphere. The mascara composition thus applied to the eyelashes provides a firm film covering the eyelashes, which is not softened at body temperature, and thus provides enhanced wearability. A cap detachable to the applicator is provided with a loading mechanism for delivering pieces of the mascara composition one by one to the applicator. |
| US08142088B2 |
Print medium cartridge which has an elastic partition member which increases the capacity of a cut piece collection portion
A cartridge that is detachable from a printing apparatus that includes a printing unit that prints onto a print medium and a cutter member that cuts the print medium, the cartridge comprises a print medium containment portion that contains print medium that are consumed along with printing operations performed by the printing unit, a cut piece collection portion that collects cut pieces of the print medium resulting from cutting operations performed by the cutter member are formed integrally in the cartridge and a partition member that separates the print medium containment portion from the cut piece collection portion, wherein the partition member is movable. |
| US08142082B2 |
Optical assembly optically coupling an optical fiber and a semiconductor device
An optical receptacle which couples a connector ferrule in which an optical fiber is inserted and an optical semiconductor package. The optical receptacle comprises: a precise sleeve which holds the connector ferrule; a receptacle body including a connection portion connected to the optical semiconductor package, a cylindrical portion in which the precise sleeve is inserted; a partition portion located between the connection portion and the cylindrical portion; and a transparent member confined in a region between an inner end portion of the precise sleeve and the partition portion, without being fixed. |
| US08142081B2 |
Wheel support bearing assembly
A wheel support bearing assembly includes an outer member, an inner member and double row balls. The inner member includes a hub unit, which has a wheel mounting flange defined in an outer periphery thereof, and an inner ring mounted on the outer periphery of the inboard end of the hub unit. A shoulder is provided in an inner peripheral edge of the inboard end face of the inner ring. A crimped portion, engageable with a stepped face of the shoulder, is provided in the inboard end of the hub unit by diameter expansion. The crimped portion is formed by crimping such diameter expanded portion which is thin walled by providing a hub inner diameter setback in the inner periphery of the inboard end of the hub unit. This thin walled portion is positioned on a side inboardly of the straight line defining a ball contact angle in the inboard raceway surface. |
| US08142078B2 |
Material-filled package
A filling-packaging body formed to have both such a durability that can withstand a large amount of filled material filled therein and easily unsealing property. The filling-packaging body (1) is formed by filling the filled material in a three-side seal bag having an overlapped part formed by cylindrically curving a laminated film (10) and overlapping both side edge parts of the laminated film, a plurality of vertical seal parts (2a) and (2b) (two seal parts are shown) formed at the overlapped part roughly parallel with each other in such a state that a band-like non-seal part (5) is left at the tip side of the outer surface side-edge part of the overlapped part, and lateral seal parts (3) and (4) formed to cross the longitudinal both end parts of the vertical seal parts (2a) and (2b). The laminated film (10) is formed by interposing a base material layer (12) for imparting strength to the film between an inner layer (11) and an outer layer (13) which are seal layers formed of a low density polyethylene. |
| US08142076B2 |
Tamper evident retaining device for use with fluid impregnated clothing and fabrics
A tamper-evident retaining device for use with articles of evidence having a base sheet and a secondary sheet connected along conjoined bottoms. A top closure includes a central panel secured along a top of the base sheet, first and second side panels extending from opposite edges of the central panel and pivotally opened in a first position. First and second side flaps extend from the sides of the base sheet such that, upon pre-placement of the evidence article upon the base sheet and subsequent folding up of the secondary sheet to overlay the base sheet, the flaps are inwardly folded to secure, in tamper evident fashion, said sides of said of said secondary sheet to said sides of said base sheet. The side panels are then pivoted inwardly and in overlaying fashion against the central panel in a second position to secure, in tamper evident fashion, the top of the base and secondary sheets. |
| US08142071B1 |
Thermoelectric thermal transfer sensor
Thermal transfer measurements are useful for measuring either a mass flow rate or the specific heat of a fluid. Thermoelectric devices are desirable for this because of their ability to simultaneously heat one portion of the sensor while cooling another. However, the internal thermal resistance of thermoelectric devices has limited the accuracy of thermoelectric thermal transfer sensors. This problem is solved by using separate temperature sensors to measure selected temperature differences established by the thermoelectric portion of a thermal transfer sensor. |
| US08142067B2 |
Electromagnetic axial agitator
Apparatus which axially stirs solid and/or liquid and/or gaseous substances jointly or individually, characterized by the use of a linear motor or linear servo motor, which enables to select the amplitude, frequency, acceleration, application time of said movement and selection of stirring and rest cycles. The stirring produced by this apparatus can be applied for mixing and/or homogenizing substances and/or extracting the constituent elements of the stirred substances. |
| US08142064B2 |
Image display apparatus
An image display apparatus includes a display for outputting an image, a supporting device supporting the display, the supporting device contacting directly on an installing surface and extending upward, the supporting device being provided with an inner hollow portion, and a light emission unit emitting light reflecting from the inner hollow portion. |
| US08142059B2 |
Automatic lighting system
An automatic lighting system for a vehicle includes a control and an imaging device having a forward field of view. The control is operable to process image data captured by the imaging device to determine if an object imaged by the imaging device is an object of interest present generally forwardly and/or sidewardly of the vehicle as the vehicle travels along the road. An illumination source is operable to illuminate generally forwardly and/or sidewardly of the vehicle. The illumination source includes an array of light emitting diodes and illumination emanating from the illumination source is adjustable via selectively activating at least some individual light emitting diodes of the array of light emitting diodes. Adjustment of the illumination source is responsive to determination by the control that an imaged object is an object of interest to the driver of the vehicle. |
| US08142054B2 |
Light-emitting apparatus having a heat-resistant glass substrate separated through a vacuum layer from a glass substrate used as the light projection plane
Provided herein is a light-emitting apparatus capable of achieving both improved durability and higher brightness with an inexpensive and simple construction. A heat resistant glass substrate 51 is mounted in a vacuum chamber 5, and while an anode electrode 8 (and a light emitter 20) is mounted on the glass substrate, the glass substrate 51 is separated from a glass substrate 11. This precisely protects the vacuum chamber 5 from thermal damage due to light emission upon excitation, even when the current density between the cathode electrode 6 and the anode electrode 8 is controlled at a high level to cause the light emitter 20 to emit light at high brightness. Accordingly, this eliminates the need to make the entire vacuum chamber 5 excessively heat-resistant, permitting construction from an inexpensive material such as soda-lime glass; consequently both improvements in the durability of the light-emitting apparatus 1 and enhancement in brightness thereof can be accomplished with an inexpensive and easy construction. |
| US08142050B2 |
Phosphor wheel configuration for high intensity point source
A phosphor point source element comprises a substrate and light emitting phosphor particles arranged on the substrate to provide a circular operational track having a tightly packed particle arrangement adjacent to a flat operational surface of an operational track region. The operational track region is rotated while illuminated at a point to provide a high intensity point source. The tightly packed particle arrangement may be achieved by spinning the phosphor particles in a cavity to compress the phosphor on the substrate at the periphery of the cavity, or by other mechanical compression. The tightly packed phosphor arrangement may either be compressed against a forming element that bounds the cavity, or machined, to provide a flat operational surface. An adhesive binding agent that permeates the phosphor particles may be cured to fix the tightly packed arrangement. A window element may support and/or protect the operational surface, in some embodiments. |
| US08142049B2 |
Lighting device for display device and display device
A lighting device for a display device, includes a light source and a chassis arranged to cover the light source. The chassis is defined by a plate-shaped member having a reticulated structure. Thus, the lighting device for a display device, capable of preventing or suppressing beat tones generated on a lamp housing member, is provided without increasing the thickness of the device and with a simple structure. |
| US08142045B2 |
Utility light with articulating mounting legs adapted with suction cup fasteners
A portable utility light is provided for removable mounting to a surface, such as the side of an automobile, for providing temporary emergency lighting. The utility light includes a main body having first end portion adapted with mounting structure to facilitate removable attachment to a smooth surface, and a second end portion adapted with light emitting device, such as one or more light emitting diodes (“LED's”). The main body comprises an elongate generally cylindrical structure wherein the first and second portions are connected and capable of rotation relative to one another about an elongate axis. The main body first end includes a battery compartment for housing a battery power source, and is further adapted with a plurality of circumferentially spaced articulating legs. |
| US08142039B2 |
Backlight assembly and method of assembling the same
A backlight assembly with reduced thickness, a reduced number of parts and a reduced probability of causing environmental contamination includes lamps, each lamp including a lamp tube and a pair of lamp electrodes disposed at ends of the lamp tube, respectively, a lamp-driving printed circuit board (“PCB”) which includes a plurality of conductive pads and a plurality of pairs of first socket-fixing grooves and provides a driving voltage to each of the lamps, sockets, each socket including a conductive body which includes a first guide groove, into which each of the lamp electrodes is inserted, and a pair of first fixing protrusions which is inserted into each pair of the first socket-fixing grooves, and a lower case which accommodates the lamp-driving PCB, the sockets, and the lamps, wherein each of the sockets is surface-mounted on a corresponding conductive pad. |
| US08142032B2 |
Optical system unit for projecting images and including light smoothing unit formed into substantially truncated quadrangular pyramid, and projector including the same optical system
An optical system unit having a light smoothing unit for emitting a light beam which is substantially parallel to an optical axis and a projector including the optical system unit are provided. The optical system unit includes a light source-side optical system, a display device for forming an image by reflected light and a projection-side optical system, whereby a light beam emitted from the light source unit is shone on to the display device via the light source-side optical system, an image is formed by the display device, and the image so formed is projected on to a screen via the projection-side optical system. The light smoothing unit of the light source-side optical system is such that at least one side of sides other than an incident side and an emitting side is disposed obliquely relative to a side which the at least one side confronts so that an area of the emitting side becomes larger than an area of the incident side. |
| US08142028B2 |
Projection type display device
A projection type display device including: a plurality of light sources; a display device; a light-combining unit for combining output light beams from the plurality of light sources; a condensing unit for propagating an output light beam from the light-combining unit to the display device; a projecting unit for projecting an image with the use of an output light beam from the display device; and a cooling unit having a ventilating fan and disposed on each of the plurality of light sources. The projection type display device further includes a flow direction adjusting unit for switching blow-off positions where air from the fan is discharged and a control unit for controlling switching of the blow-off positions operated by the flow direction adjusting unit. The control unit controls the flow direction adjusting unit to switch the blow-off positions on the basis of posture information on at least one of an inclination angle of an optical axis of the plurality of light sources and a rotation angle about the optical axis. In a configuration using a plurality of light sources, reliable control of temperature management of the light sources is performed and problems, such as whitening of the light sources, life property degradation, blacking and brightness degradation are suppressed. |
| US08142025B2 |
Projection type image display apparatus
According to the present invention, a projection type image display apparatus enables control of a large amount of light masking through a light-masking unit while maintaining a uniform illumination distribution in an area to be illuminated by the illumination light. The apparatus uses two array lenses on which lens cells are arranged in matrix form, where light-masking unit masks the array lens installed on the light source side in their particular area. The light-masking unit adjusts the amount of light emitted from the light source. The light-masking area of lens cells adjacent to lens cells closest to an optical axis is made smaller than the light-masking area of other cells. |
| US08142016B2 |
Method and apparatus for constructing a contact lens with optics
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods, and processes for constructing a contact lens. In one embodiment, a contact lens assembly is provided, comprising: a curved polymer polarizer with an aperture; a lenslet disposed inside the aperture, wherein the lenslet enables imaging near objects; and a filter attached to the lenslet. In further embodiments, a method for fabricating a flexible contact lens is provided, comprising: fabricating an element having an extrusion; providing a front concave mold, wherein the front mold has an intrusion to accommodate the extrusion of the optical element; affixing the extrusion of the optical element to the intrusion of the front mold; attaching a back convex mold to the front concave mold, thereby forming a mold cavity; and filling the mold cavity with a pre-polymerized liquid, whereby upon polymerization, the pre-polymerized liquid forms the flexible contact lens and the optical element is partially encapsulated within the lens. |
| US08142012B2 |
Eyeglasses
Eyeglasses, the eyeglasses defining substantially opposed lateral sides, the eyeglasses comprising: a pair of lenses provided in a substantially side-by-side relationship relative to each other between the eyeglasses lateral sides; a pair of connectors each provided substantially adjacent a respective one of the eyeglasses lateral sides; and a pair of side arms, each of the side arms being pivotally coupled to a respective one of the connectors so as to be pivotable in a side arm pivoting plane to a closed, an opened, an extended and a released configuration. In the closed configuration, the side arms are each substantially adjacent and substantially parallel to the lenses. In the opened configuration, the side arms extend substantially perpendicular to the lenses. In the released configuration, the side arms are located opposite to the lenses relatively to the connector and are substantially freely pivotable in the side arm pivoting plane. In the extended configuration, the side arms are between the opened and released configurations and are biased toward the opened configuration. |
| US08142011B2 |
Image recording device and image recording method
An image recording device includes a first detecting unit, a recording unit, and a control unit. The first detecting unit detects a position of a perforation pre-formed in a recording sheet. The recording unit records an image on the recording sheet based on printing data. The control unit is configured to imaginarily divide the recording sheet into a first region including a portion where the perforation is pre-formed, and a second region excluding the first region based on the position of the perforation detected by the first detecting unit. The control unit prohibits the recording unit from recording the image on the first region and controls the recording unit to record the image at least partially on the second region. |
| US08142007B2 |
Ink-jet recording method and ink composition set
An ink composition set including an ink composition. A containing at least a colorant and an interior curable photopolymerization initiator, and an ink composition B containing at least a polymerizable compound, a surface curable photopolymerization initiator and a polymerization accelerator, and an ink-jet recording method using the ink composition set. |
| US08142005B2 |
Ink jet printing system
A system for printing on an edible substrate includes an inkjet printer and a jetting fluid. The fluid is suitable for use on an edible substrate, and has a desirable viscosity and surface tension. |
| US08141995B2 |
Ink jet recording head and manufacturing method therefor
An ink jet recording head comprises a support member that has an opening used for ink supply and that is formed of a resin material, a recording element board that has an ink supply port that communicates with the opening, and a wall that at least partially contacts a peripheral side face of the recording element board that is bonded to the support element. The wall is formed on the support member surrounding the opening, and is used to position the recording element board, relative to the support member, in a direction in which contact is made by the wall. |
| US08141989B2 |
Ink-jet head and method for manufacturing the same
An ink-jet head and a method for manufacturing the ink-jet head are disclosed. The ink-jet head can include: a chamber, which may house a type of ink; a membrane, which may be formed on one side of the chamber, and in a surface of which a holding cavity may be formed; a lower electrode, formed on an inner surface of the holding cavity; and a piezoelectric component, held in the holding cavity. According to certain embodiments of the invention, the ink-jet head can be formed with thin-film type actuators, and the electrical properties of the ink-jet head can be improved. |
| US08141987B2 |
Ink jet recording head, manufacturing method thereof, and electron device
An ink jet recording head includes a substrate, having a front surface and a back surface opposite from the front surface, provided above the front surface with an energy generating element for generating energy used for ejecting ink; an ink supply port provided so as to penetrate between the front surface and the back surface of the substrate; a first layer provided on or above the front surface of the substrate; a protection layer which is provided so as to coat a wall of the substrate defining the ink supply port and which continuously extends onto the first layer; and a second layer located above the front surface of the substrate and including a portion provided on the protection layer and another portion provided on the first layer by penetrating through the protection layer. |
| US08141975B2 |
Temperature monitoring system for a media preheater
A temperature monitoring system for a media heater of an imaging device comprises a temperature indicator overlying a surface of a media heater of an imaging device. The temperature indicator is configured to vary an optical property in response to changes in temperature at the surface of the media heater. The system includes an optical scanner for scanning the temperature indicator to detect the optical quality. The optical scanner is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the detected optical property. |
| US08141964B1 |
Chassis of electronic device
A chassis of an electronic device includes a base and a side plate covering the base. The side plate includes a first plate and a second plate slidably connected to the first plate. When the side plate is disengaged from the base, one of the first and second plates is capable of sliding in a first direction away from the other one of the first and second plates, and the first and second plates are capable of easily sliding along the base in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. |
| US08141962B2 |
Robot controlling apparatus and robot system
A robot controlling apparatus ensures that the maintenance work can be property and safety practiced and efficiently uses the space of the housing of the robot controlling apparatus.A robot controlling apparatus is provided with a first housing (1) for accommodating first internal devices (6), a second housing (2) for accommodating second internal devices (7), and a front door (3) supported by a first hinge (4), which is provided on a side of the first housing, being capable of freely opening and closing, wherein a second hinge (5) is provided on the sides of the first and the second housing and the entire first housing is supported by the second hinge being capable of freely opening and closing with respect to the second housing and the accommodating portion (11) extending from a front portion of the second housing under the second front opening. |
| US08141959B2 |
Vehicle brake hydraulic pressure control unit
A vehicle brake hydraulic pressure control unit including a base body including a brake fluid flow path and a mounting hole portion having a bottom sealing surface and an inner circumferential sealing surface and an assembled part which is assembled into the mounting hole portion so as to communicate with the flow path. The assembled part includes a lower end sealing portion hermetically contacting with the bottom sealing surface of the mounting hole portion to form a lower side sealing portion and an outer circumferential sealing portion hermetically contacting with the inner circumferential sealing surface of the mounting hole portion to form a circumferential sealing portion. A hermetic accommodation space is defined by the lower side sealing portion and the circumferential sealing portion. |
| US08141958B2 |
Device for holding the head of a toothbrush
The device for fixedly holding the head of a toothbrush in a processing machine comprises holding parts with a support surface that is formed on a holding flange. The holding flange is inserted between the bristle carrier and the holding plate of the head of the toothbrush and supports the bristle carrier with the support surface thereof. |
| US08141957B2 |
Cushion with plural zones of foam
A cushion assembly defining a thickness direction comprises at least one covering layer and a core layer. The core layer comprises a first member and a second member. The covering layer spans continuously across both the first and second members in a direction generally transverse to the thickness direction, and the first member is disposed adjacent a forward area of the cushion assembly. The second member is disposed adjacent a back surface of the first member. The second member has a higher resistance to resilient deformation than the first member, and the first member has a higher resistance to resilient deformation than the at least one covering layer. |
| US08141953B2 |
Adjusting system for a vehicle seat
An adjusting system for a vehicle seat is specified that comprises a lower rail that can be mounted rigidly to the vehicle, an upper rail that is displaceable along the lower rail and can be mounted rigidly to the seat, a locking device for locking the upper rail to the lower rail, a memory module that is movable along the lower rail and can be fixed alternately with respect to the seat or to the vehicle and which includes a movable blocking catch for effecting positive locking to the lower rail, and a seat-mounted control lever for actuating the blocking catch and a seat-mounted actuating means for unlocking the locking device. |
| US08141952B2 |
Adjustable bolster assembly
An adjustable bolster assembly is provided for use with a seat assembly. The adjustable bolster assembly includes a mounting bracket configured to be fixedly secured to the seat assembly. The adjustable bolster assembly also includes a pair of side bolster paddles. Each of the side bolster paddles is operatively mounted on the mounting bracket for movement between a retracted position and a deployed position in which the pair of side bolster paddles extend forward of the mounting bracket. An actuator is mounted on the mounting bracket and operatively connected to the pair of side bolster paddles for effecting the movement. |
| US08141950B2 |
Single retractor lower anchor connection system
A lower anchor connection system for securing the child seat to vehicle anchor bites. A single retractor includes a web extendable therefrom connected to a strap having at its opposite ends couplings for lockingly engaging the anchor bights. A release button on the retractor when depressed allows the retractor web to be withdrawn holding the couplings adjacent the child seat in a stored position. |
| US08141938B2 |
Formed article for vehicle body structural member
A formed article for a vehicle body structural member includes: a first gradually varying portion that is curved around an axis extending in a width direction of a top wall portion and the width of the top wall portion varies; and a second gradually varying portion in which the width of a leg wall portion varies so as to cancel the variation in the width of the top wall portion in the first gradually varying portion. The shape of a gradually-varying-portion ridge that is a boundary between the first gradually varying portion and the second gradually varying portion is made substantially the same both in a plan view that is viewed along the thickness direction of the top wall portion and in a side view that is viewed along the width direction of the top wall portion. |
| US08141936B2 |
Method of reducing drag on the outer surface of a vehicle
A vehicle with a drag-reducing outer surface. A method of reducing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic drag on a vehicle includes the steps of: providing an outer surface on a body of the vehicle, with the outer surface including spaced apart turbulence-inducing structures thereon. The structures cause boundary layer separation to be delayed along a length of the body, thereby reducing a drag coefficient of the body. A vehicle wrapping product for reducing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic drag on a vehicle includes an outer surface for applying onto an opaque portion of a body of the vehicle. The outer surface includes a plurality of structures which induce turbulence and thereby delay separation of a boundary layer along a length of the body, to thereby reduce a drag coefficient of the body. |
| US08141932B2 |
Locking mechanism for a movable top of a passenger vehicle
A locking mechanism for latching a convertible top to a cross-member of a windshield frame of a vehicle. The locking mechanism includes a support element, a locking hook, and a pin having a retaining section and a shaft connected together. The support element is mountable to a front portion of the convertible top. The locking hook is pivotably connected to the support element to be movable between resting and operating positions. The retaining section of the pin is fixedly mounted to the support element. The shaft of the pin is projectable along a direction into a corresponding recess of a receptacle in the cross-member of the windshield frame. The pin is of a plastic material that is rigid in shape and plastically deformable and the shaft is constricted in the direction in which the shaft is projectable into the corresponding recess of the receptacle in the cross-member. |
| US08141925B2 |
Joint mechanism and joint device
The joint mechanism includes a first link, a second link, a third link, a shaft supported on the second link to be rotatable about an axis thereof, and movable in an axis direction thereof, a first worm and a second worm mounted on the shaft, a first worm wheel in mesh with the first worm to pivotally move the first link with respect to the second link, and a second worm wheel in mesh with the second worm to pivotally move the third link with respect to the second link. The first link and the third link are pivotally moved in opposite directions to each other by rotating the shaft, and pivotally moved in identical directions to each other by moving the shaft in the axis direction. |
| US08141924B2 |
Gripper system
A gripper system having a pair of jaws operable in a first plane and having a central closure axis; each jaw including a finger member and finger tip member disposed on its distal end; and a gripper drive assembly for moving the jaws toward and away from each other; each finger member having a shaped inner contour for accommodating an object to be gripped; each finger tip member including an inner surface which generally aligns with the shaped inner contour for gripping a range of larger objects and an outer surface which generally aligns with the gripper central closure axis upon closure for gripping a range of smaller objects. Alternatively, each finger tip member may include a forcep element extending transversely to said plane. |
| US08141923B2 |
Single joint elevator having deployable jaws
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for lifting a single joint of pipe. The single joint elevator of the present invention comprises, in one embodiment, a pair of deployable jaws cooperating with a pair of static jaws to secure a pipe within the slot of a generally horseshoe-shaped body. The deployable jaws of the single joint elevator of the present invention may be rotatably deployable or translatably deployable, or both. In one embodiment, each jaw, including the static jaws and the deployable jaws, comprises a pipe slip movably disposed within the jaw to secure a pipe segment within the slot and to self-tighten as the weight of the pipe segment secured within the single joint elevator is transferred to the slips and the jaws. |
| US08141919B2 |
Nestable ball retrieval and storage device
A nestable ball retrieval and storage device for collecting balls from the ground is provided. The device includes a receptacle and a handle connected to the receptacle. The receptacle has a bottom grate with a plurality of elongated members spaced apart from one another by a distance slightly less than a diameter of a ball to define at least one bottom opening through which a compressed ball on the ground can be forced through. The receptacle further has a receptacle wall structure surrounding and connected to the bottom grate. The receptacle wall structure has an open top and converges inwardly from the open top to the bottom grate to establish a tapering cavity shaped to permit nesting therein of another device that is substantially identical to the ball retrieval and storage device. The handle is constructed and arranged to extend through a bottom opening defined by elongated members of a bottom grate of the other device when the other device is nesting in the tapering cavity of the ball retrieval and storage device. |
| US08141917B2 |
Energy absorption impact system for motor vehicles
A bumper system for motor vehicles includes an energy absorption assembly that extends generally perpendicular to the direction of vehicle travel and is connected with the longitudinal supports of the vehicle frame by crush boxes. The energy absorption assembly has first and second generally parallel bumper members, which support one another along first and second contact surfaces. The first bumper member is slideably supported by the second bumper member and is configured such that upon impact, the first bumper member is slidingly displaced along the first and second contact surfaces both horizontally relative to the longitudinal supports of the vehicle frame and vertically relative to the second bumper member. |
| US08141914B2 |
Water-conducting household appliance, in particular a dishwasher or washing machine
A water-conducting household appliance includes a water-conducting line having a line end which is connected in a connecting position to a connecting piece, and a securing element which attaches onto the line end and the connecting piece and holds the line end in the connecting position. |
| US08141913B2 |
Press fitting for a pipe
The press fitting for a pipe is provided with a fitting element which comprises a supporting element onto which a pipe to be connected can be pushed. Furthermore, the press fitting comprises a compression sleeve which has on its circumferential surface a compression region corresponding to the region a pressing tool acts on the compression sleeve during the compression thereof. A plastic ring is situated on the outside of the compression sleeve and is secured thereon against movements in the axial direction of the compression sleeve wherein the plastic ring has at least one axial projection which extends right into the compression region of the compression sleeve and which can be destroyed when the pressing tool acts on the compression sleeve and/or is secured so that it can be separated from the plastic ring. |
| US08141912B2 |
Flexible ducting system including an articulable sealed joint
Aircraft including a powerplant mounted on an airframe and a rotor/wing rotatably mounted on the airframe. The rotor/wing has multiple blades extending outward from roots adjacent the airframe to tips opposite the roots and having internal conduits extending between inlets adjacent the roots and downstream outlets. The aircraft also includes multiple intermediate ducts having upstream ends including flanges and downstream ends slidably and pivotally connected to corresponding blade inlets. Moreover, the aircraft includes a manifold having an upstream end in fluid communication with the powerplant and multiple downstream ends including flanges connected to upstream ends of corresponding intermediate ducts. The aircraft further includes multiple covers connected to corresponding manifold flanges and covering corresponding intermediate duct flanges. The aircraft also includes multiple absorbers positioned between corresponding intermediate duct flanges and manifold flanges and between the intermediate duct flanges and corresponding cover to control movement of the intermediate duct flanges. |
| US08141911B2 |
Pipe connection joint
A pipe connection joint comprising a linear slant portion formed on a pipe joining hole of a flange and a pipe-expanded portion expandably formed on a pipe. The pipe-expanded portion is joined to the pipe joining hole, along the linear slant portion. A pipe connection joint with an inwardly-curved surface portion of the pipe bent by micro R bending technology is also disclosed. |
| US08141910B2 |
Plumbing apparatus
The present invention provides a plumbing apparatus that includes an offset or tangential T-fitting providing for offsetting a branch pipe from a run pipe in end elevation view, and for the branch pipe to intersect the run pipe orthogonally in side elevation view. That is, the branch pipe may intersect the run pipe substantially tangentially, so that an arrangement of plumbing fittings and devices may be nested into a thinner wall or into a smaller dimension of space than would be the case if a conventional T-fitting were employed. By use of the inventive T-fitting a considerable savings in materials of construction may be realized in the construction of swimming pools and spas, for example. Particularly, the present inventive offset or tangential T-fitting provides for the installation of bubble jet fittings and associated piping into a comparatively thin (i.e., about 6 inches thick) dam wall between a swimming pool and spa. |
| US08141909B2 |
Umbilical field connect
An umbilical field connect assembly comprising: a first umbilical portion comprising two or more first bundled members chosen from electrical cables, fluid conduits, and optical fibers; a second umbilical portion comprising two or more second bundled members chosen from electrical cables, fluid conduits, and optical fibers; a first housing assembly having a first end coupled to the first umbilical portion and a second end comprising a first coupling plate having a plurality of first couplings chosen from male and female couplings positioned therein, one of the plurality of first couplings being positioned at an end of each of the first bundled members; a second housing assembly having a third end coupled to the second umbilical portion and a fourth end comprising a second coupling plate having a plurality of second couplings chosen from male and female couplings positioned therein, one of the second couplings being positioned at an end of each of the second bundled members. The first housing and the second housing can be positioned so that each of the first couplings join with one of the second couplings to form mated coupling pairs, whereby the first bundled members of the first umbilical portion and the second bundled members of the second umbilical portion can be joined in a manner that effectively provides for a single functioning umbilical assembly. |
| US08141903B2 |
Reinforcing structure for steering support member
There is provided a reinforcing structure for a steering support member, which is made up of a pipe part, and is set across in the vehicle width direction. In this reinforcing structure, a pin part is penetratingly arranged along the vehicle longitudinal direction in a location in which a steering bracket of the steering support member is fixed, and the end portions of the pin part are fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the pipe part. |
| US08141900B2 |
Airbag apparatus
As ignition control patterns for a multi-stage inflator, a first control pattern for controlling a maximum internal pressure of an airbag in a deployed state to be a set pressure or higher and a second control pattern for controlling the maximum internal pressure of the airbag in a deployed state to the set pressure or lower are set to a control unit. A connecting band for partially limiting deployment of an airbag body in a side closer to an occupant protecting portion by connecting the side closer to a base and the side closer to the occupant protecting portion of the airbag body is provided to the airbag, and the strength of the connecting band is set such that the connecting band is to be torn when an internal pressure of the airbag in a deployed state reaches the set pressure or higher. |
| US08141896B2 |
Tandem suspension for a vehicle
A pivot assembly for a tandem suspension is provided which includes a balancer and an elastomeric assembly operable to allow the balancer to rotate about a vehicle chassis. In addition, an elastomeric assembly for a suspension system is provided which includes an elastomeric element provided with a slot for allowing a deformation in response to a tension load imparted by a balancer, and a groove for preventing bulging in response to a compression load imparted by the balancer. A balancer for a vehicle suspension is also provided which includes first and second plates, an open area formed between the plates, an engaging member provided within the open area and first and second pins which define an axis of rotation about which the balancer is rotatable. A kit for the pivot assembly is also provided. |
| US08141886B1 |
Selectively extendible operator's platform for stand-on lawnmower
A selectively deployable extender is provided on the rear of a platform assembly of a stand-on lawnmower so as to permit an operator to position his or her feet further from the rear wheels than would otherwise be possible in order to increase operator comfort and/or to improve traction and/or maneuverability. By making the platform selectively deployable as opposed to simply providing a longer platform, the length of the machine can be reduced for storage and transport, and the risk of making damaging contact with an obstruction or with the ground while traveling up a hill is reduced. The extender may, for instance, be a plate or similar device pivotally attached to a rear end of a main platform and the main platform can be resiliently mounted to or at least partially isolated from a frame of the stand-on lawnmower. |
| US08141874B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus provided with the same
A sheet conveying apparatus has a pair of conveying rotary members for conveying a sheet, an openable and closable conveying guide for guiding the sheet conveyed by the pair of conveying rotary members, a conveying path, which is disposed on a downstream side of the conveying guide, on which the sheet guide passes, a discharging portion on which the sheet having passed on the conveying path and discharged is stacked, and an obstructing member for obstructing the entrance of the conveying path. In a state in which the conveying guide is closed, the sheet conveyed by the pair of conveying rotary members is guided to the conveying path by the conveying guide. In a state in which the conveying guide is closed, the obstructing member is retracted from the entrance of the conveying path, and in a state in which the conveying guide is opened, the obstructing member obstructs the entrance of the conveying path. |
| US08141873B2 |
Method and device for a combined signature diverter and slowdown device
A device for diverting printed products is provided. The device includes a first rotating support having a first pad mounted thereon, a second rotating support having a second pad mounted thereon, a third rotating support having a third pad mounted thereon and a fourth rotating support having a fourth pad mounted thereon. The first pad has a different thickness than the second pad and the first and second rotating supports rotate together. The third pad has a different thickness than the fourth pad and the third and fourth rotating supports rotate together. A method for diverting printed products is also provided. |
| US08141868B1 |
Sheet guiding apparatus
A sheet guiding apparatus assembled on a shelf includes two guiding members, two adjusting plates, a first spring, two push bars, a second spring and two rotating members. The guiding member has a base board. A front of the base board defines a guiding portion defining a horizontal recess. Each adjusting plate is pivoted to an outside edge of the base board. The push bars are movably received in the horizontal recesses and capable of sliding in the horizontal recesses to drive the corresponding adjusting plates to rotate upward or free the corresponding adjusting plates therefrom. Each rotating member is pivoted to a front of the guiding portion. When the rotating member is turned down, the rotating member touches the push bar and pushes the push bar to move rearward so that further drives the adjusting plate to rotate upward till being perpendicular to the base board. |
| US08141861B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
The present invention provides a sheet processing apparatus including: a conveying portion which conveys a sheet; a stacking portion which stacks the sheet conveyed by the conveying portion; a first processing unit which performs a process to the sheet at a first process position on the stacking portion; a second processing unit which performs a process to the sheet at a second process position on the stacking portion, the second process position being at the downstream side in the conveying direction of the first process position; and a controlling portion which performs positioning of the sheet at the first process position when the first processing unit performs the process to the sheet and positioning of the sheet at the second process position when the second processing unit performs the process to the sheet which is passed through the first process position without being positioned. |
| US08141860B2 |
Foldable cutting board
A versatile, foldable and disposable cutting board (1) for preparing food is made of a thin, resiliently flexible sheet of propylene, stainless steel or other cut-resistant material. The board has a triangular section (11) projecting away from the user to form a distal pouring funnel and spout when the board is folded along its middle by grabbing both sides (4) and moving them toward each other. A narrow fence (6) extending upwardly from the periphery of the board converges at the apex (9) of the triangular section. A rigidizing flange (15) extends outwardly from the upper rim of the fence but is interrupted (16) near the apex. The fence is interrupted along an offset portion (20) of the proximal edge (2) in order to provide clearance for the blade and handle of a chopping or mincing instrument. |
| US08141855B2 |
Film stretcher
A film stretcher utilizes a spring bias to clamp the film. The film stretcher may include a stretch head having one or more clamps positioned about the film in locations necessary to clamp the film for stretching in one or more axes. The clamp may utilize a spring to provide the clamping force. The stretch head may include structures that operate to counter the spring bias to move the clamp to one state and then to allow the spring bias to move the clamp to another state. Thus, the stretch head may effectively clamp and unclamp the film. |
| US08141854B2 |
Gas spring assembly and method
A gas spring assembly includes a first end member, a piston assembly and a flexible wall extending therebetween. The piston assembly includes a piston body receiving a portion of the flexible wall and a retainment ring for retaining the flexible wall on the piston body. A method of assembly is also included. |
| US08141852B1 |
Strap securing system
A strap securing system for preventing damage and tangling caused by the flapping of excess strap material when using a ratchet strap. The strap securing system generally includes a frame which includes a first strap slot for receiving a secured strap portion. A securing member will generally be rotatably attached to the frame. The securing member will preferably include a second strap slot positioned therein for receiving an excess strap portion. A crank member will generally be fixedly attached to the securing member for providing rotational force to the securing member. By rotating the securing member in a first direction with the crank member, the excess strap portion which has been inserted within the second strap slot will be wound around the securing member, thus preventing it from flapping around and causing damage or becoming tangled. |
| US08141850B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for an improved vehicle jack
Various embodiments of a vehicle jack include a base, an upright support mounted adjacent to and extending upwardly from the base, a toothed rack, a toothed bar pin, and a release handle. The toothed rack has a first end and a second end and defines a plurality of ratchet troughs therebetween, and the toothed rack is mounted adjacent the upright support. The ratchet assembly is adapted to move along a path defined by the upright support, and the toothed bar pin, which is mounted adjacent the ratchet assembly, is adapted to selectively engage a portion of the toothed rack adjacent one of the plurality of ratchet troughs as the ratchet assembly moves along the path. The release handle is mounted adjacent the second end of the toothed rack, and the release handle is adapted to selectively disengage the toothed bar pin from one of the plurality of ratchet troughs. |
| US08141847B2 |
Method for controlling or regulating a vacuum valve
A method for controlling or regulating a vacuum valve that includes a valve body (1) with a valve opening (2), a closing member (3), an actuator (5) for moving the closing member (3), and a control device (9) by which the actuator (5) is triggered and by which the pressing force acting on the elastic seal (4) in the closed position of the closing member (3) is set. The setting of the pressing force acting on the elastic seal (4) is performed as a function of at least one parameter that can be input by a user. |
| US08141843B2 |
Fluid control valve
A valve includes a body, a throttling ball, and a shoe. The body includes an upstream flow passage and a downstream flow passage in fluid communication with an interior cavity of the body. The throttling ball is rotatable within the interior cavity on an axis to adjust the valve from a closed position to an open position and includes a fluid conduit extending through the throttling ball, where the fluid conduit is alignable with the upstream flow passage and the downstream flow passage. The shoe is disposed in the cavity abutting an interior surface of the cavity and includes a fluid passage there through having an inlet being alignable with the flow conduit of the throttling ball and an outlet being alignable with the downstream flow passage of the body. The interior surface of the shoe is disposed adjacent to and tracking an external surface of the throttling ball. |
| US08141842B2 |
Solenoid valve
A solenoid valve includes a valve housing in which a spool valve element is fitted to be reciprocably slidable along an axis; a magnet coil that moves the spool valve element in a first direction along the axis by an action of an electromagnetic force; a return spring that biases the spool valve element in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, and moves the spool valve element in the second direction when the magnet coil is not excited; and first and second attraction members that are respectively fixed to the spool valve element and the valve housing such that they are spaced from each other along the axis by a distance no less than a maximum moving amount of the spool valve element and attract each other by an attraction force smaller than a bias force of the return spring when the magnet coil is not excited. |
| US08141839B2 |
Pole mounting device
A pole mounting device has a rod with a ball at one end and a clamp at the opposite end, and a holder tube with a ball socket that forms a ball joint with the ball on the end of the rod. The holder tube rotates relative to the rod about two transverse axes. A pole is held in one end of the tube and a set screw in the other end adjusts rotational resistance of the ball joint. The mounting device can mount flag poles, and with an adapter, mobile electronic devices or other articles. |
| US08141838B2 |
Adjustable picture hanger
An adjustable picture hanger for suspending an object from a surface. An exemplary embodiment may include a base mounted to a wall, a central plate selectively rotatable with respect to the base, and/or a hook slidable in a slot in the plate. The position of the hook relative to the wall may be adjusted by rotating the plate with respect to the base and/or by sliding the hook along the slot. |
| US08141830B1 |
Corner pole bracket system
A corner bracket having a base member and a first wall attachment portion that extends substantially perpendicular to the top side of the base member and a second wall attachment portion that extends substantially perpendicular to the top side of the base member, such that a first wall attachment surface of the first wall attachment portion is perpendicular to a second wall attachment surface of the second wall attachment portion. A central bracket member, an inner bracket member, and an outer bracket member each extend from the top side of the base member. The central bracket member is positioned substantially between at least a portion of the inner bracket member and the outer bracket member and a base member edge, two opposing central bracket member edges, an inner bracket member edge, and an outer bracket member edge are each aligned. |
| US08141829B2 |
Low profile adhesive mounted fixture button
A low profile fixture button is provided for adhesive attachment to a substrate in a temporary or substantially permanent manner. The fixture button includes a plurality of preferably four over-center spokes substantially in a common plane and carrying a mounting plate having a pressure sensitive adhesive material thereon. The spokes are carried by an outer backstop rim, and are initially oriented with the mounting plate advanced toward the substrate. In a preferred form, the backstop rim seats within a counterbore formed in the rear side of a larger attachment adapted for low profile mounting onto the substrate. Pressing of the fixture button toward the substrate engages the advanced mounting plate with adhesive thereon with the substrate, and forces the spokes to displace over-center to a retracted position withdrawn substantially into the backstop rim and any associated larger attachment for low profile mounting onto the substrate. |
| US08141825B2 |
Method and apparatus for securing cables and the like
Apparatus for use with a mounting panel having a mounting aperture includes a cable tie mount having a cable tie receiving passage extending therethrough, the mount having a planar central rigid portion and first and second side portions self-biased to reside in the plane of the mount central portion and supported by the central portion for deflection relative thereto and a cable tie for disposition in the mount passage, the cable tie having a self-bias to a planar condition. |
| US08141823B2 |
Method for vertical takeoff from and landing on inclined surfaces
Takeoff and landing modes are added to a flight control system of a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV). The takeoff and landing modes use data available to the flight control system and the VTOL UAV's existing control surfaces and throttle control. As a result, the VTOL UAV can takeoff from and land on inclined surfaces without the use of landing gear mechanisms designed to level the UAV on the inclined surfaces. |
| US08141820B2 |
Optimized aircraft manhole
An aircraft manhole including a skin panel of an aircraft structure, wherein an outer door and an inner door of the aircraft manhole are positioned on the skin panel. The aircraft manhole further includes stringers installed on the skin panel positioned on and attached to the skin, and fixing edges partially projecting through the manhole on the side for positioning the outer door and the inner door. The aircraft manhole also includes reinforcements arranged between the outer door and the inner door of the manhole that are attached to the skin, the reinforcements forming the fixing edges on one of its sides, and a cavity arranged in the skin to allow installing the outer door, thus maintaining the aerodynamic surface of the assembly as well as its tightness. |
| US08141814B2 |
Lighter-than-air vertical load lifting system
An aerial load lifting system features a non-rigid or blimp-type dirigible providing a lighter-than-air envelope that is placed within a structural shell. The system is designed so that the envelope provides essentially neutral buoyancy for the structure, leaving only the cargo weight to be lifted by the rotors. The structural shell supports the engine, fuel tank, rotors, and transmission system that power the lift and vectoring of the aircraft, in addition to supporting the cargo load. The structural shell transfers the weight of the load directly to the location of the rotors, thus avoiding stress on the envelope. |
| US08141813B2 |
Helicopter
A helicopter having a rotor, a fuselage, and a transmission connected functionally to the rotor; the helicopter has a supporting body supporting at least the transmission, and connecting means having a first connecting member and at least one second connecting member connected to the supporting body and the fuselage respectively; and the connecting means have elastic means interposed between the first and second connecting member. |
| US08141807B2 |
Reel assembly
A reel assembly comprises a spool member configured to rotate about a spooling axis to wind or unwind a linear material. The spool member is also configured to rotate about a reciprocation axis that is substantially perpendicular to the spooling axis. A housing substantially encloses the spool member and comprises first and second housing portions that are rotatable with respect to one another about the reciprocation axis. The first housing portion defines an aperture configured to receive the linear material therethrough. A rotating member is configured to rotate when the spool member rotates about the spooling axis. The rotating member is mechanically linked with respect to the first housing portion via one or more intervening components, such that each revolution of the rotating member produces one cycle of relative reciprocating rotation between the spool member and the first housing portion about the reciprocation axis. |
| US08141805B1 |
System for determining counter knife bank insertion position
A chopper assembly for a combine includes a rotary chopper element, a chopper grate assembly spaced from the rotary chopper element to form a passageway for crop residue and a knife bank adjustably connected to the chopper grate assembly. The knife bank is movable between a first position where the knife bank is fully inserted into the passageway and a second position where the knife bank is full retracted from the passageway. An actuating mechanism is used to move the knife bank between the first position and the second position. A position sensor is used to measure the position of the actuating mechanism and determine the position of the knife bank relative to the passageway. |
| US08141793B2 |
Gel air freshener and method of unsealing such gel air freshener
The present invention is a gel air freshener article of manufacture comprising a gel air freshener composition and a container that provides a method for unsealing and opening without undue exertion by the consumer. The article of manufacture according to the present invention includes the gel air freshener composition and a container comprising a base portion and axially displaceable cover in telescopic registry, wherein the cover is axially displaced away from the base portion by rotation. The unsealing of the container is achieved through the coordination of camming locks, which comprise an upper ramped surface, with spike-shaped locking wedges that comprise a beveled toe portion, elongated shaft portion and camming head portion. Rotation of the cover in a first direction relative to the base portion locks the toe end and shaft portions of the spike-shaped locking wedges beneath the camming locks. Rotation in a second opposite direction relative to the base portion backs the camming head portion of the spike-shaped wedges up the upper ramped surfaces of the camming locks such that the cover is axially distanced from the container, thus unsealing the cover from the base and breaking loose the gel air freshener composition bound inside surface of the cover. An optional pin-hole in the cover allows for pressure equalization of the momentary vacuum created when the cover is first unsealed and displaced. |
| US08141791B2 |
Energy management improvement for a heating system with reduced setpoint temperature during no occupancy based upon historical sampling of room thermal response with highest power heat applied
A thermostat apparatus for controlling a heat pump with supplemental resistive heating as typically contained in a Packaged Terminal Air Conditioning (PTAC) unit is disclosed which provides improvements in energy management by reducing energy usage as much as possible within user guidelines when the conditioned space served by the PTAC is not occupied. A reduced setpoint temperature determination is based upon measurements of thermal response within the conditioned space to application of supplemental or resistive heat, and utilizes supplemental or resistive heat in achieving a quick recovery when people enter the conditioned space, thus enabling a more reduced setpoint temperature when the space is not occupied. |
| US08141790B2 |
Thermal bypass valve with pressure relief capability
A by-pass valve for a heat exchanger circuit that includes a cooler has a chamber and ports for flow of fluid into and out of this chamber. A thermally sensitive actuator is mounted in the chamber and can extend or retract in dependence on its body temperature as influenced by temperature of the fluid. A by-pass valve seat is arranged in a valve housing along with a by-pass valve member movable by the actuator into or out of engagement with the seat. A relief valve is mounted in the chamber and has a relief valve member movable between closed and open positions in order to close or open pressure relief ports. This relief valve member is biased towards the closed position. Excessive pressure build up in an end section of the chamber causes the relief valve member to move to its open position. |
| US08141789B2 |
Method for controlling the temperature of an appliance
A method of controlling the temperature of a food preparation or sanitation appliance includes sensing the actual temperature of the appliance. When the temperature of the appliance is greater than a maximum threshold temperature, a compressor which supplies pressurized air to a burner is shut-off and a flame sensor, which senses the presence or absence of a flame, is overridden so the appliance acts as if a flame is present. When the actual temperature is less than a minimum threshold temperature, the compressor is started. |
| US08141785B2 |
Optical delay module for lengthening the propagation path of a light beam and pulse multiplication or elongation module
The invention relates to an optical delay module for lengthening the propagation path of a light beam comprises a first spherical mirror and a second spherical mirror, the first spherical mirror and the second spherical mirror having equal radii of curvature, the first and the second mirror being arranged on a common axis of symmetry with concave sides of the first and second mirrors being situated opposite one another at a distance from one another which corresponds to the radii of curvature of the first and second mirrors. The module also includes a coupling-in area for coupling the light beam into a space between the first and second mirrors and a coupling-out area for coupling the light beam out of the space between the first and second mirrors. The propagation path of the light beam between the coupling-in area and the coupling-out area corresponding at least approximately to quadruple the mirror distance, at least one optical arrangement arranged between the first and second mirrors, the optical arrangement being arranged to transfer the light beam between the first and second mirrors in such a way that the propagation path of the light beam without masking out of beam parts between the coupling-in area and the coupling-out area corresponds approximately to 2N times the mirror distance, where N is an integer >2. |
| US08141784B2 |
Encoded information reading terminal with user-configurable multi-protocol wireless communication interface
An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a microprocessor electrically coupled to a system bus, a memory communicatively coupled to the microprocessor, an encoded information reading (EIR) device, and a wireless communication interface. The EIR device can be selected from the group consisting of a bar code reading device, an RFID reading device, and a card reading device. The EIR device can be configured to perform outputting raw message data containing an encoded message and/or outputting decoded message data corresponding to an encoded message. The wireless communication interface can comprise a radio frequency front end configured to perform receiving a first radio signal and/or transmitting a second radio signal. The radio frequency front end can be electrically coupled to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) which can be electrically coupled to the system bus and/or to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) which can be electrically coupled to the system bus. The microprocessor can be configured to execute a base-band encoder software program and/or a base-band decoder software program. The base-band encoder software program can be configured to produce a first encoded bit stream by performing at least one of the following functions: source encoding of a first bit stream, encryption, channel encoding, multiplexing, modulation, frequency spreading, and media access control. The DAC can be configured to output to the radio frequency front end an analog signal corresponding to the first encoded bit stream. The ADC can be configured to output a second encoded bit stream corresponding to an analog signal produced by the radio frequency front end. The base-band decoder software program can be configured to produce a second bit stream corresponding to the second encoded bit stream by performing at least one of the following functions: media access control, frequency de-spreading, de-modulation, de-multiplexing, channel decoding, decryption, and source decoding. |
| US08141783B2 |
Barcode device
Bar codes used for various applications. A bar code can be used for biometrics, or for computer data entry. A special bar code is described that has additional information, but can be read by other readers. |
| US08141781B2 |
Laser light beam scanning device for reading coded information and scanning optical element for such device
A laser light beam scanning device for reading coded information includes an emission source of a laser light beam, an optical element for scanning the laser light beam on a support containing coded information, an optical element for collecting the light coming from the support and photodetector means sensitive to the light collected by the collecting optical element so as to generate a representative signal of the information contained in the support. The collecting optical element is spatially distinct from, and integrally oscillating with, the scanning optical element and includes at least one transmissive input surface of the light coming from the support. In particular, the scanning optical element and the collecting optical element are part of a single scanning and light collecting optical element. |
| US08141780B2 |
System and method for data card emulation
An improved system and method for data card emulation is provided that enables a single data card to emulate any one of multiple data cards. The data card includes an improved system and method for conveying data involving pulsed light that can read a barcode and can emulate a barcode. The improved system and method for conveying data may also include at least one of a magnetic stripe reader or a magnetic stripe emulator. The data card uses the improved system and method for conveying data to interface with conventional barcode and/or magnetic stripe readers, to interface with other such data cards or other devices having similar circuitry, and to interface with a data management system used to manage barcode and/or magnetic stripe information stored in a memory on the data card. |
| US08141778B2 |
Identification display device
An identification display device which is provided in a work unit in which a plurality of work locations are arranged in rows, and which displays for identifying a designated location selected from the work locations, the identification display device includes a database which stores address information of the respective work locations; light-display section which is provided respectively on each of the work locations, and which emits a visible light which contains the address information of the work location in which the light-display section is arranged; a photoreceptor which transmits a photoreception signal which contains at least the address information contained in the light from the light-display section, when the light is received; and a confirmation section which receives the photoreception signal from the photoreceptor, and determines whether or not the address information contained in the photoreception signal matches the address information of the designated location obtained from the database. |
| US08141777B2 |
Method and system using wildcard values
A method of processing data on a server computer is disclosed. The method includes receiving data at the server computer, the data including a first data string including one or more wildcard values. The first data string is specifically associated with a customer, and the one or more wildcard values are associated with the purchase transaction. The method also includes comparing the first data string to a second data string by the server computer, and providing an output to the consumer based on the comparison. |
| US08141765B2 |
Cutting blade for a wire bonding system
A cutting blade for a wire bonding system is provided. The cutting blade comprises a body portion having an end portion. The end portion includes a blade tip configured to penetrate into a conductive material The end portion further includes a stepped portion proximate the blade tip that is configured to limit penetration of the blade tip during use thereof. |
| US08141764B1 |
Friction stir welding apparatus, system and method
A friction stir welding system is provided herein. More specifically, traditional friction stir welding requires a rotatable head that is forced against a plurality of work pieces to bond the same. The rotational and normal forces generated by the friction stir welding tool are generally reacted by a backing plate, anvil, mandrel or other mechanisms, such hardware are subject to the applied forces and are often supported with additional internal supports. Conversely, a friction stir weld system is described that omits the need for such a backing member and internal supports as it is performed using a self reacting pin tool. |
| US08141759B2 |
Container assembly for a motor vehicle
A container assembly for a motor vehicle passenger compartment includes a housing, a door, an arm, a helical spring and a cam. The door is pivotally coupled to the housing for movement about a first pivot between a closed position wherein the door covers an opening in the housing and an open position wherein the door is pivoted about the first pivot to allow access through the opening to a storage space in the housing. The arm is pivotally coupled to the housing for movement about a second pivot. The arm has a cam surface. The helical spring continuously biases the arm toward the first pivot. The cam is coupled to the door and movable with the door about the first pivot between the closed position and the open position. The cam has a center portion and a lobe extending outwardly from the center portion. The lobe remains in contact with the cam surface of the arm. The cam surface applies a torque on one side of the lobe to bias the door toward the closed position and on an opposite side of the lobe to bias the door toward the open position. |
| US08141753B2 |
Ejection device
An ejection device (11) for cartridges containing multi-component compounds has an ejection mechanism (12) and a receptacle (16) for the cartridge, with the receptacle (16) being limited on the front side by a head plate (17) and on the rear side by a stop plate (18) and in order to hold the cartridge in a first position, a first stop (21) provided at the head plate (17) and a second stop (22) provided in the area of the stop plate (18), and a third stop (23) in order to hold the cartridge in a further position. |
| US08141752B2 |
Hand-held applicator unit
The invention relates to a hand-held applicator unit for viscous materials having a screw pump disposed in a pump casing which is in communication with a drive, wherein the pump inlet has a product intake with a flexible supply line and the pump outlet contains a shaped mouthpiece. |
| US08141746B2 |
Wine extraction and preservation device and method
Devices and methods are disclosed for extracting fluids from within a container sealed by a cork or septum without removal of the cork or septum or the contamination of the fluid within the container by reactive gases or liquids. Embodiments of the device can include a needle connected to a valve which is in turn connected to a source of pressurized gas for displacing the fluid. Further embodiments of the device can comprise additional components that act to force the needle to be inserted through the cork or septum along a linear path, to aid in preventing buckling of the needle, to clamp the device to the container, to prevent expulsion of the cork or septum from the container, and to guide the needle through a specified region of the cork or septum. Various valves, pressure regulators, pressure ranges, needle geometries, gas selections are also presented. This device is particularly suited for the dispensing and preservation of wine. |
| US08141742B2 |
Storage container cover
Several molded, hard plastic cover pieces and attached fabric or hard side wall assemblies are disclosed for mounting over a storage container. One cover piece provides raised channel rails that support a layered sub frame assembly. The sub frame secures fabric or plastic side wall assemblies to the cover piece. Fabric or expansible hinge pieces mount between fabric or plastic panels to provide flexible transitions to facilitate the mounting and removal of the cover piece and/or sidewall assembly. Cross pieces fitted to channel rails define lifting supports to permit attachment or removal of the cover piece from a wooden storage container. Truss pieces formed between channel pieces strengthen and control water runoff. Alternative cover pieces provide lifting towers, panels with tine receiving apertures or interconnected tension members. |
| US08141741B2 |
Vacuum container with protective features
A container including a metal sidewall is provided. The metal sidewall includes a first end; a second end; a center portion having a principal width; a first feature positioned between the center portion and the first end, the first feature extending from the sidewall such that the maximum width of the sidewall at the first feature is greater than the principal width; and a second feature positioned between the center portion and the second end, the second feature extending from the sidewall such that the maximum width of the sidewall at the second feature is greater than the principal width. The container further includes a first bead located in the center portion of the sidewall; and a second bead located in the center portion of the sidewall. |
| US08141739B2 |
Hydrogen storage tank and manufacturing method for the same
[Object] A safe hydrogen storage tank in a highly reliable form where it is difficult for fatigue failure to occur is provided as a hydrogen storage tank where a cartridge is filled with a hydrogen occluding substance and contained within an integrally molded liner made of a metal.[Means for Achieving Object] A cartridge 10 is formed of a cartridge main body portion 11, a fixed side axial portion 13 and a free side axial portion 12, and an integrally molded liner 20 which is seamless is formed of a liner torso portion 21, a fixed side end portion 25 where a fixed side opening 25a is created via a portion in dome form 24 and a free side end portion 23 where a free side opening 23a for supporting a support plug 30 is created via a portion in dome form 22 in order to support a free side axial portion 12a, in such a manner that the fixed side opening 25a fixes and supports the fixed side axial portion 13 and is sealed by a sealing plug 40 while the free side opening 23a is sealed by the support plug 30, and the free side axial portion 12 is inserted into and supported by the recess 31 created in the support plug 30 so as to be moveable forward and backward in the direction of the axial line. |
| US08141738B2 |
System for insulating a cryogenic tank and method of insulating said tank
Cryogenic tank insulation system comprising blocks of insulating materials placed, at low temperature, so as to be essentially touching on one face of the structure of said tank, the blocks being placed between said face of the structure and an impervious deformable wall which defines at least one portion of the volume where the cryogenic fluid is stored and is actuated by return means for returning it to the face of the structure, characterized in that a first portion of the blocks is at ambient temperature in contact with the face of the structure and away from the impervious deformable wall, a second portion of the blocks being at ambient temperature, in contact with the impervious deformable wall and away from the face of the structure, the edges of the blocks of the first portion; and those of the second portion being, at ambient temperature, in partial contact and having complementary shapes so as to form an essentially continuous layer of insulating material at low temperature. |
| US08141730B2 |
Closures for multiple component containers
A closure for a multiple component container includes an insert (12), a piston (20) and a cap (10). The insert (12) and the piston (20) define a reservoir and the insert (12) comprises a fixed cylindrical wall (26) and a movable wall (32) connected thereto and movable with respect thereto by the action of gas pressure within the reservoir. The movable wall (32) has a discharge aperture (36) formed therein. The cap (10) comprises a closure plate (14), integral with whose outer edge is a depending skirt (16), by means of which the cap may be secured to a container. The closure plate (14) cooperates with the piston (20) such that movement of the closure plate towards the insert (12) results in movement of the piston also in the same direction. The piston (20) forms a sliding seal with the internal surface of the fixed cylindrical wall (26). A valve member (22) is integral with, the piston (20) and is slidably received in and seals the discharge aperture (36). |
| US08141728B1 |
Infant feeding system and method
An infant feeding system for feeding an infant seated especially in a car seat with the bottle sitting in a cup holder. The infant feeding system includes a bottle assembly including a bottle and a cap removably fastened to the bottle, and also includes a feeding assembly being positioned for transporting fluid therethrough from the bottle to an infant. |
| US08141727B2 |
Water bottle with dosage in a dispenser cap
A solid dosage preparation is provided with a bottle of water. The solid dosage preparation is housed in a compartment of a closure applied to the bottle of water. The solid dosage preparation is capable of being dispensed in a single-handed manipulation of a roller-like chamber. The roller-like chamber is provided with a means for indicating any tampering of the enclosed solid dosage preparation, which is maintained in a protective environment between the chamber and the compartment. |
| US08141722B2 |
Garment hanging device
A garment hanging device includes an elongated bar, having a plurality of receptacles defined in the bar, each of which can receive a garment hanger. Each receptacle has a receiving portion open at the top edge of the bar, and a retaining portion between the top and bottom edges being connected with the receiving portion. At least one hook is provided, having a coupling end pivotably coupled to the bar, a hooking portion extending from the coupling end through an apex portion opposite the coupling end to a terminal end. A distance between the hook's pivot point on the bar and a corresponding receptacle corresponds to a distance between the coupling end and the apex portion such that the hook is flexed and pivoted into a stowed position wherein the apex portion is disposed within the corresponding receptacle, and into a deployed position wherein the apex portion is removed from the corresponding receptacle. |
| US08141720B2 |
Saddle rack
A saddle rack is provided with a resilient frame and means for biasing the frame to a desired arcuate shape. The saddle rack includes a retainer that allows the saddle rack to be coupled to a wall bracket for use and easily removed when not in use. The saddle rack includes a curved shape and venting to allow a saddle to properly dry without becoming damaged or disfigured during storage. |
| US08141717B2 |
Sintered polymeric materials and applications thereof
The present invention provides sintered polymeric materials and methods of making the same which are useful in a variety of applications. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a sintered polymeric material comprising at least one plastic and at least one elastomer. |
| US08141716B2 |
Polysulfone and poly(N-vinyl lactam) polymer alloy and fiber and filter materials made of the alloy
A polymer alloy has been developed comprising a polysulfone and a vinyl lactam polymer. The resulting alloy has excellent thermal characteristics and even in the presence of substantial quantities in vinyl lactam polymers, has solvent resistance to both organic and aqueous solvent materials. The materials, when dissolved in solvents, can be spun from a variety of solvents into a variety of useful fiber materials. The resulting fine fiber, microfiber and nanofiber materials have excellent thermal and chemical resistance for a variety of fiber applications. The polymer alloys of the invention can be spun into nanofiber mats that can act as a filtration media and can also be combined into conventional substrate materials for fabrication into filter structures. |
| US08141713B2 |
Container with pull-out compartments
A container formed from a corrugated material having a first lower compartment and a second upper compartment. The container having a lower pull-out panel for accessing the lower compartment, and an upper pull-out panel for accessing the upper compartment. |
| US08141711B2 |
Hygiene product assembly and method
A personal hygiene assembly including a personal hygiene article such as a tampon and a towelette. The tampon is individually packaged in a wrapper and the towelette is also individually packaged in a wrapper. The assembly attaches the towelette package to the tampon package for convenient co-location of the articles. The towelette package can be attached to the outside surface of the tampon package either after sealing of the tampon package or during the sealing of the tampon package. As both the tampon package and the towelette package have a generally linear axial orientation, the articles can be axially aligned for attachment and convenient storage. |
| US08141710B2 |
Game related bundle packaging
A game related bundle packaging has a first side and a second side. The bundle packaging can hold a game console in its original packaging at a predetermined position and at least one game related item in its original packaging at another predetermined position. The first side includes a first and at least a second window. The first window has a first shape and size at a first position on the first side and reveals a first area of interest of the original packaging of the game console when the game console is placed in the bundle packaging. The second window has a second shape and size at a second position on the first side and reveals a second area of interest of the original packaging of the game related item when the item is placed in the bundle packaging. |
| US08141708B2 |
Container for glass products
A container for transporting a plurality of curved glass sheets lined up side by side. The container includes a bottom structure, such as a pallet, a back wall extending upward from the bottom structure, a first side wall connected to a first end of the back wall and extending upward from the bottom structure, and a second side wall connected to a second end of the back wall and extending upward from the bottom structure. The container includes a cradle portion proximate the back wall extending into an interior portion of the container. The cradle portion including a glass sheet supporting surface for contacting a backmost one of the plurality of glass sheets. The supporting surface has a radius of curvature to correspond with the curvature of the backmost one of the plurality of glass sheets. The container can have two or more cradle portions. The container also includes two back corner support structures, each configured to support a portion of the respective side walls and a portion of the back wall. A banding system and method are also provided for securing a plurality of glass sheets in a container for transporting the glass sheets. The system includes a central support member having a plurality of openings for adjustably positioning a band internally in the container to coincide with the frontmost glass sheet. The central support member includes an opening to allow the band to anchor the central support member securely against the back wall of the container. |
| US08141705B2 |
Golf bag, golf bag kit, and methods of assembly thereof
In one embodiment, a golf bag assembly is disclosed, comprising: a golf bag body having a top opening and a bottom opening; a collar coupled along an inner surface of the golf bag body adjacent to the top opening, the collar having a plurality of pole receiving collar ends; a cuff coupled along an inner surface of the golf bag body adjacent to the bottom opening; a base member having a plurality of pole receiving base ends, the base member removeably coupled to the cuff; a top support removeably coupled to the collar; and a plurality of connecting poles that extend between the plurality of pole receiving base ends of the base member and the plurality of pole receiving collar ends of the collar thereby retaining the base member against the cuff and providing structural support to the golf bag body. |
| US08141703B2 |
Instrument housing case
Provided is an instrument housing case, which allows an instrument to be readily taken in and out of the instrument. The instrument housing case (10) includes: a main body case (20), which has a bottomed cylindrical shape, and includes an opened upper end surface and opened upper portions of parts of side surfaces; and a cover body (30). The cover body (30) includes: a top plate (31) adapted for an opening portion (26) of the upper end surface of the main body case; and a side plate (33) adapted for an opening portion (28) of the parts of the side surfaces of the main body case (20), the side plate (33) including a lower end portion pivotably fixed to the main body case (20) through a hinge (40). The cover body (30) covers the opening portion (26) of the upper end surface and the opening portion (28) of the parts of the side surfaces of the main body case (20) to thereby allow the opening portions (26, 28) to open and close. |
| US08141702B2 |
Security disk protective enclosure
A container for a disk having a central opening includes a base having a pedestal for holding the disk, a hingedly connected lid, and a laterally spaced pair of latches for locking the container closed. Also disclosed are interior partitions of the base and lid that have edgewise proximal engagement, a disk presser structure for holding edge extremities of the disk in place during mishandling of the container, and rib members that block entry of a destructive blade in an endwise path through regions of facing contact adjacent to living hinges of the container. |
| US08141701B2 |
Pack for tobacco industry products
A pack for tobacco industry products such as menthol cigarettes, comprises a housing (1) defining an enclosure containing tobacco industry products (4) and a pad (34) disposed in or on the pack, impregnated with the substance for altering characteristics of the tobacco industry products, such as a menthol flavorant, and a removable strip (32), attached to the pad so that when removed, the substance is released into the pack from the carrier to be adsorbed by the cigarettes. Thus, menthol can be released from the pad into the pack after opening by the consumer, by removal of the strip to boost the level of menthol flavorant in the cigarettes. |
| US08141699B2 |
Contact lens case
An improved contact lens case which includes domes that are provided on hinged members. Preferably, the contact lens case is configured to efficiently utilize space and volume such that no more than 10 cc's of contact lens solution are required to disinfect contact lenses in the case. The hinged members are preferably non-planar which allows the domes to be provided on the hinged members, and allows the use of deep larger diameter, back-to-back cages on the stem, without having to resort to using more than 10 cc's of fluid to immerse contact lenses that are disposed on the domes, between each of the domes and a respective cage. Each of the hinged members has a cylindrically-curved shell form in which the axis of its curve is approximately parallel to the central axis of the central planar stem member. |
| US08141692B2 |
Check-processing device with single image camera
An apparatus for capturing images from checks and other financial and payment-related documents includes a base unit including an input slot for receiving a document to be processed. A transport stage located within the base unit receives the document from the input slot. The transport stage includes a document track, a processing device located along the document track, and a one-way gate located along the document track after the processing device. The document track includes a second, return path extending from a location at the one-way gate to a location before the processing device. A bi-directional drive mechanism receives the document as the document passes through the one-way gate in the forward direction. The bi-directional drive mechanism then reverses direction to drive the document in the reverse direction. The one-way gate is arranged to divert the document traveling in the reverse direction into the second, return path and re-introduce the document to the processing device with the document now in a reverse orientation. |
| US08141690B2 |
Current collecting contact member
In a current collecting contact member 7 that is arranged on the side surface of a vehicle 1 so as to face a train wire 35 laid near a track 30 of the vehicle 1, and is configured so as to collect electric power from the train wire 35 by means of sliding contact with the train wire 35, a groove 10 extending upward from a lower end part 8d of the contact member body 8 is formed in a contact-side surface 8a of a contact member body 8. |
| US08141689B2 |
Magnetorheological (MR) piston ring with lubricating grooves
A magnetorheological (MR) piston ring includes an MR-piston-ring body disposable within a cylinder of an MR damper. The MR-piston-ring body has a radially inner surface defining a boundary of a longitudinally-extending MR passageway. The MR-piston-ring body includes a surface portion which is slidingly engagable with the cylinder and which has first and second longitudinal ends. The surface portion includes at least one surface groove each defining a secondary MR passageway and extending from the first to the second longitudinal end or each defining an MR cavity extending from one of the first and second longitudinal ends toward, but not to, the other of the first and second longitudinal ends. An MR damper including the MR piston ring is also described. |
| US08141686B2 |
Corner lift device
A lifting device is provided in a wall corner of a room in a building at an intersection of a first wall and a second wall. The device includes a vertical guide rail mounted to the first wall right angle corner point and to a second wall right angle corner point. A corner guide rail is mounted to the wall corner. A lift container has the configuration of a right triangle with the first side wall being one leg of the triangle and the second side wall being the other leg of the triangle. A door opening is provided along the hypotenuse of the triangle. The lift container has guide members positioned on each of three corner points thereon to guide the lift container along the guide rails. A drive motor located on the top in the center of the triangular form moves the container vertically upward and downward. |
| US08141684B2 |
Method for installing an elevator, and elevator
An elevator, preferably an elevator without counterweight, comprising a number of diverting pulleys in the upper part of an elevator shaft or equivalent, a number of diverting pulleys in the lower part of the elevator shaft and a number of diverting pulleys on an elevator car, is installed in such manner that at least some of the diverting pulleys for the upper part are rigged in the lower part of the elevator shaft and at least some of the diverting pulleys from which the passage of the ropes is directed upwards are rigged at the same time. The diverting pulleys for the upper part thus rigged are raised in the rigged state to the upper part of the elevator shaft or equivalent and mounted in place. |
| US08141681B2 |
Tower climbing assist device
A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjust the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder exerts on an assist rope, to provided an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope. |
| US08141680B2 |
Portable stepping system
A stepping platform includes an upper step platform and a lower step platform. The stepping platform may be manually moved from a stored position to a deployed, and vice-versa. The upper step platform includes a tread surface and side walls that cooperate to define a cavity into which the lower step platform fits when the stepping platform is in the stored position. The lower step platform also includes a tread surface and side walls. In one embodiment, a height of the lower step platform is about half of an overall height of the upper step platform. Further, both platforms may include tread surface areas sized to support both feet of a standing adult. |
| US08141679B2 |
Absorptive muffler suspension
An absorptive muffler assembly includes a first body and a second body surrounding the first body. A resilient mount having at least one resilient portion and at least one support arm supports the first body and isolates the second body from vibrations of the first body. |
| US08141678B2 |
Sound-permeable film, electronic component with sound-permeable film, and method of producing circuit board having electronic component mounted thereon
A sound-permeable film (11) includes: a porous membrane (13) that contains polytetrafluoroethylene as its main component, allows sound to pass therethrough, and prevents an foreign object such as a water drop from passing therethrough; and a heat-resistant double-sided adhesive sheet (15) that is disposed on a part of at least one of main surfaces of the porous membrane (13). |
| US08141673B2 |
Engine for saddle ride type vehicle
An engine for vehicle includes an oil hydraulic automatic transmission for changing the change gear ratio by control of an oil pressure. The oil pressure control unit of the transmission includes a plurality of control valves for controlling the oil pressure, and is mounted to an upper portion of a crankcase. A power transmission shaft interlockedly connected to a counter shaft and having an axis parallel to the counter shaft is disposed on the lower rear side of the counter shaft, and a drive bevel gear on the power transmission shaft and a driven bevel gear are meshed with each other on the rear side of the axis of the power transmission shaft. The resulting configuration eliminates the need for a special measure to protect the oil pressure control unit, and prevents interference of the driven bevel gear with the gear speed change mechanism. |
| US08141671B2 |
Hood lift-up apparatus
A hood lift-up apparatus of the invention is arranged on a lower side of a rear end of a hood panel of a vehicle and includes an actuator of a constitution of fixing a cylinder in a shape of a circular cylinder arranged by making an axial direction thereof substantially in line with a vertical direction to a body member of a vehicle by utilizing an attaching bracket. The attaching bracket is constructed by a constitution of including a holding portion of holding the cylinder by being disposed on a rear portion side constituting a side of the cylinder, and an attaching portion arranged on a front side of the cylinder by being extended to the front side from the holding portion and is fixed to a body member at a portion of the attaching portion. |
| US08141669B1 |
Motorized personal transporter
A personal transporter includes a tubular metal frame supporting a platform for supporting an operator, and the frame has forwardly projecting and parallel spaced inverted L-shaped frame members which support a pair of freely rotating front caster wheels. A pair of reversible electric motor and attached gearbox drive units are mounted on the rear portion of the frame on opposite sides of the platform, and the gearboxes have right angle output shafts forming axles supporting a pair of rear wheels. A storage battery is enclosed within a box in front of the platform, and a vertical adjustable post projects upwardly in front of the box to support a handlebar. A hand control unit is mounted on the handlebar and is connected to the drive units through a control system within the box. The rear wheels are covered by fender guards which also cover the drive units. |
| US08141668B2 |
Children's ride-on vehicle
Children's ride-on vehicles. The ride-on, or ride-on vehicle, includes a frame having a seat adapted to support a child, and a drive assembly with a battery-powered motor assembly. The ride-on vehicle further includes one or more steerable wheels and one or more driven wheels. In some embodiments, the ride-on vehicle includes a biasing assembly that is connected to the frame and adapted to bias the seat away from the vehicle's driven wheels. In some embodiments, the ride-on vehicle includes a free-floating wheel, which is unbiased and travels within a defined range of positions with respect to the ride-on vehicle's frame as external forces are imparted to the wheel. In some embodiments, the ride-on vehicle includes a high-speed switch positioned for momentary high-speed operation of the ride-on vehicle and a user-manipulable portion may be provided to enable a child to select such a high-speed configuration. |
| US08141666B2 |
Solar powered airport baggage cart
A solar powered baggage cart that includes a baggage container portion, an operator platform, front wheels and rear wheels underlying the baggage cart for supporting, and an array of photo-voltaic cells located in an overlying relationship to the container. The cells are in electrical communication with a bank of batteries through a charging control circuit for charging the batteries, which are mounted under the baggage cart and are electrically connected to one or more electric motor/pumps. The electric motor/pumps are in mechanical communication with respective drive motors and brakes for the front and rear wheels. The baggage cart is configured to steer in one of three modes, a front wheel steer mode, a rear wheel assist steer mode or a crab steer mode. |
| US08141665B2 |
Drill bits with bearing elements for reducing exposure of cutters
A bearing element for a rotary, earth boring drag bit effectively reduces an exposure of at least one adjacent cutting element by a readily predictable amount, as well as a depth-of-cut (DOC) of the cutter. The bearing element has a substantially uniform thickness across substantially an entire area thereof. The bearing element also limits the amount of unit force applied to a formation so that the formation does not fail. The bearing element may prevent damage to cutters associated therewith, as well as possibly limit problems associated with bit balling, motor stalling and related drilling difficulties. Bits including the bearing elements, molds for forming the bearing elements and portions of bodies of bits that carry the bearing elements, methods for designing and fabricating the bearing elements and bits including the same, and methods for drilling subterranean formations are also disclosed. The design and drilling methods include selecting a formation to be drilled, calculating a desired DOC and the strength of the formation, and calculating a height or thickness of a bearing element that may limit the DOC and the unit force applied to the formation. |
| US08141664B2 |
Hybrid drill bit with high bearing pin angles
A hybrid drill bit having at least two rolling cutters, each rotatable around an axis of rotation, at least one of the rolling cutters having a high pin angle, and at least one fixed blade. The pin angle can encompass pin angles above 39 degrees to less than 393 degrees. The drill bit can allow the rolling cutters to engage a shoulder portion and/or gage portion of the bit profile and assist the fixed blade(s) in these areas. The at least two rolling cutters can be disposed at different pin angles. |
| US08141663B2 |
Down hole hammer having elevated exhaust
A percussive assisted rotary drill includes a top sub for connection with a drill pipe. The drill pipe imparts torque to the drill and also supplies motive fluid to the drill. The drill includes a shank adapter to facilitate affixing a rotary drill bit to the drill. The motive fluid is divided between a bit flow which flows through the bit to clear debris at the bottom of the drill, and an actuator flow. An actuator, which may be in the form of a reciprocating piston, moves within the drill under the influence of the actuator flow to impart cyclical blows to the shank adapter. The blows are transferred to the drill bit through the shank adapter to provide a relatively high frequency low amplitude percussive force on the rotating drill bit to assist in the drilling operation. At least a portion of the actuator flow portion of the motive fluid is exhausted through the top end of the drill. The relative flow rates and volumes of the bit and actuator flows can be adjusted with a check valve in the actuator flow exhaust path. |
| US08141659B2 |
Method and apparatus for lateral well drilling utilizing an abrasive fluid stream discharged from a rotating nozzle
A method and apparatus for penetrating a side of a well casing and/or drilling into earth strata surrounding the well casing, utilizing a rotating fluid discharge nozzle, and an abrasive introduced into the fluid downstream of apparatus for rotating the nozzle. Apparatus for rotating the nozzle can include a motor operable by pressurized fluid, or another suitable rotating power source The introduction of the abrasives will not adversely affect or harm the apparatus for rotating the nozzle, yet will provide the enhanced drilling capability. The abrasive stream can be used for drilling or cutting through a metal well casing, as well as cement and the adjacent strata. |
| US08141656B1 |
Apparatuses and methods relating to cooling a subterranean drill bit and/or at least one cutting element during use
One aspect of the instant disclosure relates to a subterranean drilling assembly comprising a subterranean drill bit and a sub apparatus coupled to the drill bit. Further, the sub apparatus may include at least one cooling system configured to cool at least a portion of the drill bit. For example, the sub apparatus may include at least one cooling system comprising a plurality of refrigeration coils or at least one thermoelectric device. In another embodiment a subterranean drill bit may include at least one cooling system positioned at least partially within the subterranean drill bit. Also, a sub apparatus or subterranean drill bit may be configured to cool drilling fluid communicated through at least one bore of a subterranean drill bit and avoiding cooling drilling fluid communicated through at least another bore of the subterranean drill bit. Methods of operating a subterranean drill bit are disclosed. |
| US08141654B2 |
Quick assembly pneumatic tool
A quick assembly pneumatic tool may be connected to a tool bit and has a housing, an anvil casing, a rear cover, an air inlet assembly, a rotor assembly and an impact assembly. The housing has a handle and a rotor casing. The rotor casing is formed on the handle and has a front chamber and a rear chamber. The anvil casing and rear cover respectively cover the front and rear chambers. The rotor assembly is mounted in the rear chamber and is selectively driven by the air inlet assembly. The impact assembly is mounted in the front chamber and the anvil casing and is selectively rotated by the rotor assembly. The separate rotor and anvil casings allow the rotor and impact assemblies to be inserted respectively in the front and rear chambers so that assembling the pneumatic is easy and quick. |
| US08141653B2 |
Folding implement frame
In an embodiment, an agricultural implement includes a first wing tool bar and a second wing tool bar on each lateral side of the implement. The first wing tool bar and the second wing tool bar are configured to rotate from a working position to a transport position. The first wing tool bar and the second wing tool bar each include a respective tool frame configured to rotate upwardly from a working position to a transport position. In addition, the second wing tool bar is configured to articulate with respect to the first wing tool bar during transport. A fold-away frame section is rotatably coupled to the first wing tool frame and configured to rotate out of a plane formed by the first and second wing tool frames to avoid contact between the tool frames during transport. |
| US08141649B2 |
Hypoxic fire suppression system for aerospace applications
A fire suppression system and a method for providing fire suppression onboard of an aircraft by rapidly establishing a breathable hypoxic atmosphere onboard of an aircraft, which can be generated by an air separation device utilizing a positive pressure of the bleed air and a negative pressure of the outside atmosphere; breathable hypoxic fire-extinguishing agent, containing 12%-18% of oxygen, can flood protected compartments of an aircraft in case of a fire and/or can be used as propellant for generating water mist or foam. |
| US08141647B2 |
Method of radially expanding a tubular element
A method is provided of radially expanding a tubular element. The method comprises inducing the wall of the tubular element to bend radially outward and in axially reverse direction so as to form an expanded section of the tubular element extending around an unexpanded section of the tubular element, wherein said bending occurs in a bending zone of the wall, and wherein an annular space is defined between the unexpanded and expanded sections. At least one guide member is located in the annular space, each guide member being arranged to guide the wall during said bending so that the wall bends at an increased bending radius relative to bending of the wall in case the guide member is absent from the annular space. |
| US08141643B2 |
Method and frame
A method of installing equipment subsea comprising the steps of: assembling the equipment within a frame; submerging in the sea at least a part of an assembly comprising the frame and the equipment; coupling the at least partially submerged assembly to a vessel; transporting the at least partially submerged assembly proximate a subsea installation site; coupling the assembly to an installation device; and installing the equipment at the installation site using the installation device. A frame for supporting equipment is also disclosed wherein the frame is shaped to match the dimensions of the equipment to be supported. The frame comprises at least one clamp having a first half clamp member for releasably engaging a second half clamp member of a second structure and a full clamp member for clamping around and supporting the equipment. The first half clamp member and the full clamp member can be integrally formed. |
| US08141642B2 |
Fill up and circulation tool and mudsaver valve
A fill-up and circulation tool includes a mandrel; a packer assembly is disposed around the mandrel; and a valve assembly connected to the mandrel, wherein the valve assembly is configured to selectively control fluid flow into the tool and out of the tool. |
| US08141639B2 |
Detonator for material-dispensing wellbore tools
An apparatus for use in dispensing fluid into a wellbore includes a piston element releasably coupled to a housing and a detonator in the housing that applies a force sufficient to release the piston element from the housing when activated. The apparatus also has an intermediate section that mates with the upper section, an elongated member coupled to the piston and that is positioned in a bore of the intermediate section; and a lower section having a housing that mates with the intermediate section. The housing includes at least one opening providing communication between a bore of the housing and an exterior of the housing; and a movable barrier in the lower section. The movable barrier has a first position, wherein the barrier substantially blocks communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening, and a second position, wherein the barrier does not substantially block communication between the bore of the intermediate section and the at least one opening. |
| US08141637B2 |
Manipulation of flow underground
Solid material required at a subterranean location is supplied from the surface suspended in a carrier liquid and agglomerated below ground by means of a binding liquid. To achieve agglomeration, the binding liquid and the particulate solid are similar to each other but opposite to the carrier liquid in hydrophilic/hydrophobic character. The solid and the binding liquid may both be hydrophobic while the carrier liquid is hydrophilic, or vice versa. The solid may be hydrophobically surface modified to render it hydrophobic. The binding liquid may be provided as a precursor which converts to the binding liquid below ground to trigger agglomeration after arrival at the subterranean location. The agglomerates may function as proppant heterogeneously placed in a fracture of a reservoir, or may serve to block an unwanted path of flow. The binding liquid may polymerise after agglomeration so as to stabilise and strengthen the agglomerates. |
| US08141635B2 |
Cased borehole tool orientation measurement
Methods and related systems are described for use for determining orientation of a measurement tool in a cased borehole. The measurement tool is deployed in a cased section of a borehole. The tool includes a volume containing a reference fluid having a first density, and a marker within the fluid having a different density. The position of the marker within volume containing the reference fluid is senses, and orientation information of the measurement tool is determined based at least in part on combining information relating to the position of the marker with prior recorded data representing orientation measurements made while the section of the borehole was not yet cased. |
| US08141624B2 |
Apparatus for heating a restaurant kitchen, dining room, and hot water supply
An apparatus for recovering heat from exhaust air received from a restaurant kitchen. Rotating backwards inclined fan blades draw exhaust air from the kitchen along a flow path and impel it against walls of a housing, such that grease is removed from the exhaust air. A fan motor is positioned out of the flow path. The exhaust air is pushed out of the housing to a heat recovery coil directly downstream that is formed from a heat conductive material. The coil has an internal conduit through which a heat transfer fluid is supplied at a temperature below the exhaust air temperature, such that the fluid in the conduit is heated by exhaust air passing over the conductive material. After leaving the conduit, heat energy is transferred from the fluid to makeup air for return to, or to water for use in, the restaurant. |
| US08141620B1 |
Method for conditioning a cooling loop of a heat exchange system
Use of an inert gas in a fluid-operated heat exchange system. A cooling loop of a heat exchange system is purged with an inert gas to remove oxygen from the cooling loop. Coolant is added to the cooling loop of the heat exchange system. The coolant flows in the cooling loop of the heat exchange system to mix the inert gas with the coolant to provide a solution having a reduced concentration of oxygen. |
| US08141616B2 |
Gravity casting method
A gravity casting method includes: situating a molding die having a feeder portion in communication with a cavity above the cavity to a horizontal state and pouring a molten metal from a runner in communication with the cavity; putting the molding die to a state inclined at a predetermined angle during pouring of the molten metal from a stage where the molten metal is filled in the runner and prevailing the molten metal while pouring to the inside of the cavity and the feeder portion; and returning the molding die to the horizontal state after the molten metal has been poured completely, and solidifying the molten metal. |
| US08141613B2 |
Double-hinged awning arm
Awning of the type which is provided with a roll-up shaft (3) on which is wound a cloth (4) which is fixed with one edge to a front lath (5) which is supported by means of two or more articulated arms (6), every articulated arm (6) consisting of at least two arm parts (9-10) which are hinge (12)—mounted to one another so as to be able to fold together the articulated arm (6) around a pivot (16) and to open it. The hinge (12) is a multiple hinge which not only allows for a rotation around the above-mentioned first pivot (16), but which at least also allows for a rotation around a second pivot (17) which is directed crosswise or mainly crosswise to the first pivot (16). |
| US08141612B2 |
Device for thin die detachment and pick-up
A die detachment device for delaminating a die which is mounted at a position on an adhesive film comprises a plurality of movable plates having quadrilateral-shaped contact surfaces which are arranged adjacent to one another. The plurality of movable plates comprises an intermediate movable plate and outer movable plates on opposite sides of the intermediate movable plate. The contact surfaces of the movable plates together form a combined contact surface for supporting the adhesive film at the position of the die, each movable plate being movable relative to the other movable plates towards and away from the die. |
| US08141610B2 |
Hand-held portable labeler and method of labeling
There is disclosed a hand-held portable labeler and labeling method that enables the label web supply to be quickly threaded into the labeler. The path of the carrier web for the labels from the nip of the print head and platen roll, about the delaminator, into the nip between the platen roll and a pressure roll, and out of the labeler is short and the pressure roll is widely separable from the platen roll to facilitate threading. |
| US08141608B2 |
Apparatus for manufacturing extruded coiled tubes for medical purposes
An apparatus for manufacturing extruded coiled tubes for medical purposes is provided which includes rotary shafts protruding from a spindle, each rotary shaft being coupled to a respective flexible shaft resting on a series of supporting elements substantially equidistant to each other and supported by a main central shaft; at least an extrusion head to extrude a ribbon, and at least an extrusion head to extrude a rib; the ribbon and the rib being co-extruded, side by side, and being wound on an ideal surface formed by the external surfaces of the flexible shafts. The apparatus is characterized in that for changing the pitch with which the rib is wound on a base tubular element, formed on its turn by the winding coil of the ribbon, at least two twisting bars operated by a crank are used to rotate the supporting elements with a pre-defined angle. |
| US08141606B2 |
Tire
A tire includes a plurality of helical springs. Each helical spring includes a first end portion, a second end portion, and an arching middle portion. Each helical spring is interlaced with at least one other helical spring thereby forming a laced toroidal structure extending about an entire circumference of the tire. |
| US08141601B2 |
Manual filling aid with push button fill
A medical liquid transfer system includes a pump configured to transfer liquid between at least two containers. A detachable connector is detachably secured to the pump. The detachable connector has at least one pump passage to transmit pumping pressure from the pump to at least one of the containers. The detachable connector can include one or more liquid impermeable and gas permeable membranes to ensure the liquid is retained in the detachable connector. After the fluid is transferred the detachable connector is removed and replaced by a new one in order to prevent contamination of the pump. An interlock mechanism is used to prevent premature removal of the detachable connector and/or the container being filled. |
| US08141598B2 |
Contrast container holder and method to fill syringes
The filling of a syringe can be performed at a faster rate using a filling sequence which expels air from the fill tube before filling the syringe. A similar method is used when changing contrast containers during a filling sequence to ensure that all the air is expelled from the fill tube before filling resumes with the new contrast container. Additionally, by including a contrast container holder that is affixed to an injector head and holds the container near the syringe tip, the filling sequence can be accomplished without requiring the operator to hold the contrast container during the sequence. |
| US08141597B2 |
Installation for filling an aerosol container with liquid, such as paint
An installation for filling an aerosol container with liquid, whereby the aerosol container including at least one frame, elements for holding a scoop of liquid for filling on the frame at a mount point located above the point where the aerosol container is mounted, a pushing element with a removable piston head, and elements that indicate when the piston head is not attached to the pushing element. The indicating elements assume the shape of a movable stop between an active position—in which the stop is placed on the trajectory followed by the scoop during its installation in its mount point on the frame and prevents the installation—and an inactive position—in which the stop allows the installation, whereby this stop, returned to the active position, is held in the inactive position by the piston head, in the attached state of the piston head on the pushing element. |
| US08141593B2 |
System for tightly covering an elongate member with an elastic protection sleeve
The system includes, in addition to the sleeve (11), a tubular core (12) for keeping in a stretched condition the sleeve, adapted to receive inside it the elongate member, and a film (13) with a low coefficient of friction placed between the sleeve (11) and the core (12) to enable the core to slide relative to the sleeve. The film (13) extends at least from a first end (15) of the sleeve to a first end (17) of the core (12) opposite the first end (15) of the sleeve, makes a half-turn at the first end (17) of the core (12) and then extends inside the core as far as its second end (18) at which it makes a half-turn and then extends outside the core (12) as far as the sleeve (11) to which it is fixed externally. |
| US08141586B2 |
Fluid control
A valve having a trim comprising a plurality of impingement flowpaths, each flowpath comprising a central impingement chamber and having three radially directed inlet passages is provided. As the fluid floes through the inlet passages and enters the impingement chamber the flow starts to turn and impinge upon one another at a substantially central point within the impingement chamber and exit together via the outlet which is substantially axial to the impingement chamber. As the flows entering the impingement chamber impinge on one another as opposed to a wall of the flowpath, the impingement can be used to create a flowpath with reduced erosion. |
| US08141582B2 |
Flow amount adjusting valve
A flow amount adjusting valve includes a handle that enables an opening/closing amount of a valve plug to be adjusted. A piston connected to the valve plug is screw-engaged with a first axial portion of the handle. Additionally, along with displacement of the valve plug in the axial direction via the piston under a rotating action of the handle, an indicator element is accommodated in an interior portion of the handle. A first indicator undergoes screw-engagement with respect to the handle, and the indicator element is displaced together with displacement of the valve plug, such that displacement of the valve plug can be confirmed visually from outside the flow amount adjusting valve. |
| US08141581B2 |
Compressor improvements
A linear compressor has a hollow piston with crown and sidewall. The piston reciprocates in a cylinder. A piston rod connects the piston to a spring. A connection between the piston rod and the piston transmits axial forces directly to the piston crown. The connection transmits lateral forces to the piston at an axial location away from the piston crown. The connection allows rotational flexibility between the piston and the piston rod transverse to and uniformly around the piston reciprocation axis. Other improvements in or relating to linear compressors are disclosed. |
| US08141578B2 |
Gas bottle valve stem protective sleeve
A protective sleeve for gas bottle valve stems is provided comprised of an elongated tubular body configured to fit on a valve stem. A projection extends from an interior surface of the protective sleeve and is adapted to lockingly engage with an orifice in an opposing surface of the valve stem whereby the sleeve is prevented from being easily removed from the valve stem upon being placed thereover due to engagement of the projection with the orifice. A tear strip is provided within a side surface of the protective sleeve, whereby a portion of the protective sleeve may be removed to permit disengagement of the protective sleeve. A housing may be provided in the protective sleeve for storage of a washer which may be used to provide a seal between a regulator and the valve stem of the gas bottle. |
| US08141575B2 |
Valve and production method thereof
A valve includes a silicon substrate having first and second surfaces, a channel having an opening extending between both surfaces of the silicon substrate, and a metal pattern on the first surface of the silicon substrate. The metal pattern surrounds the opening on the first surface of the silicon substrate but does not close the opening. In addition, a low melting point metal member is disposed on the surface of the silicon substrate. The low melting point metal member covers at least a part of the metal pattern and completely closes the opening on the first surface of the silicon substrate. |
| US08141574B2 |
Thermally activated pressure relief
The housing is attachable to a high pressure fluid containing structure. A piston is provided within the housing, with the piston having a closed position and an open position. The closed position blocks an outlet vent of the relief device, with the open position allowing high pressure fluid to escape through the vent. The piston is biased toward the open position by the high pressure fluid, but is held in the closed position by a slide. The slide has a first position and a second position, with the first position holding the piston in the closed position. A spring biases the slide toward a second position, with a eutectic mass resisting movement of the slide to the second position. The eutectic mass is selected to have a melting point matching a maximum design temperature for the high pressure fluid containing structure. Should the eutectic mass melt, the high pressure fluid escapes. |
| US08141573B2 |
Microfluidic valve having free-floating member and method of fabrication
Micro check valves having a free-floating member for controlling flow of fluid in microfluidic and biomedical applications and methods of fabrication. A micro check valve includes a valve seat, a valve cap that contacts the valve seat and an untethered floating member that can move between the valve seat and the valve cap. Certain micro check valves have zero cracking pressure and no reverse leakage. Certain other valves may be configured to permit flow of fluid within a pressure range. The floating member can be solid or define an orifice, and the valve seat can have one or two levels. Valves can be configured to allow fluid to flow when the floating member is pushed by fluid against the valve cap or against the valve seat. The valve seat may be silicon or another material that is compatible with micromachining processes, and the valve cap and the floating member may be a polymer such as Parylene. |
| US08141572B2 |
High pressure isolation valve system
An isolation valve system includes a main body (32), an actuator body (34) and a sealing membrane (307) arranged at a high pressure portion (36) of the isolation valve system. The sealing membrane mechanically attaches the actuator body to the main body. The sealing membrane further seals the high pressure portion from a low pressure portion (38). A burst plug (315) is arranged against the main body and supports the actuator body. An activation arrangement (50) is arranged for allowing an at least partial displacement of the burst plug, typically causing a phase transition. The sealing membrane is dimensioned to break when the actuator body is moved due to the displacement of the burst plug. The isolation valve system includes preferably a stack (30) of substrates (301-304) being bonded together. The substrates have micromechanical structures, which form at least the actuator body and the sealing membrane. |
| US08141569B2 |
Concealed fluid distribution conduit system
A structural member is designed to define a fluid distribution conduit receiving cavity within its interior volume. An elongate extruded plastic cover snap-fits onto the member to conceal the conduit but permits nozzles and the like to extend therethrough so that fluid may be distributed from the conduit and/or serviced as necessary without removing the cover. The cover effectively supports the conduit by trapping it against a compression pad on the cavity floor. |
| US08141561B2 |
Mascara applicators
A mascara applicator includes a hollow grip portion connected to which is one end of a shaft, the other end of which carries a mascara brush. The shaft and mascara brush are hollow and the mascara brush is flexible. An elongate flexible connector extends within the shaft and the mascara brush. A first end of the connector is fixed with respect to the distal end of the mascara brush and the second end of the connector is fixed with respect to actuating means within the grip portion. The actuating means are selectively operable to move the second end of the connector in the direction away from the mascara brush, thereby applying a force to the distal end of the mascara brush and causing it to adopt a curved configuration. |
| US08141558B2 |
Position dependent interference cancellation
A method for position tracking includes receiving signals from a main position transducer at a distal end of a medical probe via wiring traversing the probe to a connector at a proximal end of the probe, for connection to a processor, which processes the signals to find a first position of the distal end. Calibration data with respect to an interference introduced into the signals at the connector is collected as a function of a position of the proximal end. A second position of an auxiliary position transducer at the proximal end of the probe is measured. The interference in the signals is canceled responsively to the measured second position and the calibration data. The first position is calculated based on the signals, after canceling the interference. |
| US08141556B2 |
Metallization with tailorable coefficient of thermal expansion
The present invention is directed to an interconnect for an implantable medical device. The interconnect includes a pad and a first layer introduced over the pad. At least one of the pad or the first layer comprise a negative coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) material. |
| US08141547B2 |
Crossbow angled grip
An angled grip may allow a wrist, a palm, and a forearm of an associated user to be substantially aligned when aiming or discharging a weapon. The angled grip may be selectively attachable to the weapon and may comprise a ball joint mount for operatively connecting the angled grip to a weapon. The ball joint mount may comprise a shaft and a spherical portion. The shaft can be fixedly received in a stock of the weapon. The spherical portion can be rotatably received in a socket formed in an end of the angled grip. |
| US08141545B2 |
System and method for crankcase gas air to fuel ratio correction
A method and a system for correcting combustion in an engine to control for the effect of crankcase gases in the intake system are disclosed. The system includes one or more sensors in the crankcase ventilation system. An air to fuel ratio sensor may be disposed within a breather line and/or a PCV line of the crankcase ventilation system to monitor crankcase gases. |
| US08141544B1 |
Carburetor system with a return line to the fuel tank
A fuel system for a vehicle has a fuel tank, a fuel line in communication with the fuel tank, a carburetor having an inlet side and an outlet side, a return line connected to the outlet side of the carburetor and communicating with the fuel tank, and a nozzle positioned in the return line. The fuel line is connected to the inlet side of said carburetor so as to pass fuel into a fuel bowl of the carburetor. The nozzle has an orifice formed therethrough. The orifice of the nozzle has a diameter of between 0.005 and 0.050 inches. The nozzle is in sealed relationship with an inner wall of the return line. |
| US08141543B2 |
Arrangement structure of vehicle-use fuel pump
A vehicle has an engine and a fuel tank, which is located above the engine, mounted on a vehicle-body frame. A fuel pump, which supplies fuel is spaced-apart from the fuel tank and is located below the fuel tank and in front of the engine. Further, a center of the fuel pump in the vehicle-width direction is located so as to overlap a vehicle-body center line which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body. Additionally, the fuel pump is mounted on lower main frames, which are positioned below the vehicle body. |
| US08141541B2 |
Abnormality detection device for internal combustion engine
An object of the present invention is to provide an abnormality detection device that is used with an internal combustion engine having a valve drive mechanism capable of halting the drive of at least one of an intake valve and an exhaust valve, and able to detect the abnormalities of a valve drive halt function. The internal combustion engine includes a knock sensor capable of sensing the seating sound of the intake valve and/or the exhaust valve. An ECU detects whether a control signal given to the valve drive mechanism is a valve drive signal or a valve halt signal. In accordance with the result of detection by the ECU and the presence of the seating sound in an output of the knock sensor, the abnormality detection device judges whether or not the valve drive mechanism is abnormal. |
| US08141540B2 |
Method for operating an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, at least one rotation variable characterizing the rotational movement of a crankshaft is ascertained cylinder-specifically. It is provided that, in an operating state in which differences and/or fluctuations of the rotation variable are basically a function of a combustion position, the instant of a fuel injection is adapted cylinder-specifically in order to reduce the differences and or fluctuations. |
| US08141538B2 |
Intake ducting device for a car engine
An intake ducting device for a car engine comprising at least a round sheet main body having on its outer edge a circular ring, the circular ring can be fixed in the inner surface of an intake tube and is provided inside of it with a plurality of airflow disturbing holes, the airflow disturbing holes are arrayed at least in two layers from the inner side to the center of the circular ring and are in the form of grids, each airflow disturbing hole has at least an airflow deflector having an tilting angle relative to the axis of the intake tube, when airflow from the car intake tube passes the main body, by the function of the airflow disturbing holes and the airflow deflectors respectively in the airflow disturbing holes, the airflow can be separated against concentration, thereby the intake tube can take in air uniformly. |
| US08141535B2 |
Exhaust system device with mounting bracket
An exhaust system device is disclosed. The exhaust system device may have a mount supporting a first exhaust treatment device and a second exhaust treatment device. The exhaust system device may also have a mounting bracket coupled to the mount. The exhaust system device may further have an air cleaner attached to the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket may be configured to substantially occlude the air cleaner from thermal radiation emitted by the first exhaust treatment device and the second exhaust treatment device. |
| US08141531B2 |
Valve cover with decoupled NVH isolation and sealing features
A cylinder head cover, a system, and a method are disclosed for sealing a cylinder head and isolating cylinder head vibrations from a cylinder head cover body. An example cylinder head cover may include a bottom carrier having a first end configured to be disposed in sealing engagement with a cylinder head. The bottom carrier may also have a second end. A cover body may be configured to provide a covering surface, and may have a side wall extending toward the cylinder head. A resilient joining element may connect the bottom carrier second end to an edge of the cover body side wall in sealing engagement. An example method may include positioning a substantially rigid bottom carrier on the cylinder head, the bottom carrier including a sealing member configured for sealing engagement with the cylinder head; sealingly connecting a membranoid elastomeric joining element to the bottom carrier; connecting the cylinder head body to the joining element; and forming a substantially continuous sealing membrane with a combination of the bottom carrier the joining element and the cylinder head body. |
| US08141528B2 |
Actuating device for two parallel rotating camshafts
The invention relates to an actuating device for two parallel rotating camshafts. The aim of the invention is to optimize the installation space required for such a device. For this purpose, both camshafts (3, 4) consist of two shafts that rotate concentrically one inside the other and that can be rotated in relation to each other. On one end of the camshafts (3, 4), one of the two shafts (3′, 3″; 4′, 4″) is driven by the crankshaft (1) via a single, directly acting force-transmitting element (2). A phase adjuster (5) is provided on the other end of the camshafts (3, 4) and allows the simultaneous adjustment of both shafts (3″, 4″; 3′, 4′) in relation to each other by means of a force-transmitting element (6) acting on the phase adjuster (5). Said force-transmitting element connects a region of a camshaft (3, 4) that is firmly connected to an inner or outer shaft (3″, 4″; 3′, 4′) to an inner or outer shaft (3″, 4″; 3′, 4′), to be adjusted accordingly, of the other camshaft (4, 3) in a force-transmitting manner. |
| US08141523B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling an electric motor
Method and apparatus for controlling an electric motor employing an electrolysis subassembly connected in an electrical circuit which includes the electric motor. While controlling the throughput of electrical current through the electrolysis subassembly, there is simultaneously generated a fuel gas useful for fueling an internal combustion engine. The invention includes a novel electrolyte utilizing novel electrode structure and mode of operation. The electrolysis may be powered by a battery pack. |
| US08141518B2 |
Animal shelter with integrated storage and training systems and methods
A shelter for an animal comprises a base member having a plurality of recessed channels formed in an upper surface thereof and adjacent to a perimeter thereof, a plurality of wall members coupled with the recessed channels in the base member so as to form an enclosure that defines an interior space, and a roof member pivotally attached to at least one of the wall members so as to move between an open and closed configuration. The shelter comprises a removable storage member positioned between the base member and the roof member so as to vertically separate the interior space into an interior storage compartment and an interior residential compartment for the animal. The shelter comprises a movable partition member positioned between at least two of the wall members and adapted to vary the dimension of the interior residential compartment. |
| US08141515B2 |
Method of aquaculture
A method of aquaculture is applicable to a novel culture arrangement for diversified farming of generally deep sea fin fishes, shrimps, and shellfishes. A pre-manufactured enclosed cultivation tank is provided and air compressor facility is included for pressurization and oxygenation so as to make the interior of the cultivation tank a pressurized water environment of predetermined high pressure. A low pressure siphon tube is included for sucking and removing excrements from the cultivation tank and to realize water replacement in a natural manner thereby providing a deep sea mimicked clean cultivation environment. The drained water is subjected to multiple steps of filtration and purification for separating the excrements from the water and for purifying water to allow cyclic use of the water. An arrangement of multiple cultivation tanks allows for diversified and multi-species cultivation of fishery products and deep sea fishes. |
| US08141513B2 |
Substrate holding apparatus, substrate holding method, and substrate processing apparatus
A substrate holding apparatus can meet the request for a smaller-sized compact apparatus while ensuring a sufficient immersion depth of a substrate in a processing liquid. The substrate holding apparatus includes: a substrate holder for supporting a substrate (W) by bringing a peripheral portion of a surface of the substrate (W) into contact with a first sealing member; and a substrate pressing section for lowering relative to the substrate holder so as to press the substrate (W) held by the substrate holder downward, thereby bringing a first sealing member into pressure contact with the substrate (W). The substrate pressing section is provided with a second ring-shaped sealing member which makes pressure contact with an upper surface of a ring-shaped holding section of the substrate holder, thereby sealing the peripheral region of the substrate pressing section. |
| US08141512B2 |
Plating apparatus
A plating apparatus for plating a FPCB base board having a first conveyance region and a second conveyance region includes a shielding apparatus. The shielding apparatus includes a first shielding plate and a second shielding plate. The first shielding plate corresponds to the first conveyance region. A distance between the first shielding plate and the first conveyance region is from 5 millimeters to 20 millimeters. A width of the first shielding is equal to or larger than a width of the first conveyance region. The second shielding plate corresponds to the second conveyance region. A distance between the second shielding plate and the second conveyance region is from 5 millimeters to 20 millimeters. A width of the second shielding is equal to or larger than a width of the second conveyance region. The first and second shielding plates are made of an insulation material. |
| US08141507B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for facilitating the instruction of quilting techniques
An apparatus to facilitate the instruction of quilting techniques includes a background pattern and a stitching pattern printed on a fabric panel. The fabric panel may be a length of fabric configured to receive inks which define the background pattern and the stitching pattern. The background pattern may be a plurality of geometric shape arranged to simulate one or more quilted fabric designs such as those designs found on a typical quilted fabric. The stitching pattern includes at least one quilting stitching design which defines a guideline for stitching the stitching pattern. The apparatus also includes at least one instructional mark printed on the fabric panel. The instructional mark defines a quilting instruction which guides a user in stitching the stitching pattern. |
| US08141505B2 |
Yarn color placement system
A yarn color placement system for a tufting machine including a series of different color yarns being fed to the needles of the tufting machine by yarn feed mechanisms. A backing material is fed through the tufting machine at an increased stitch rate as the needles are shifted according to the programmed pattern steps. A series of level cut loop loopers or hooks engage and pick loops of yarns from the needles, with the clips of the level cut loop loopers or hooks being selectively actuated to form cut pile tufts, while the remaining loops of yarns can be back-robbed so as to be hidden from view in the finished patterned tufted article. |
| US08141503B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving air seeder boot
In an air seeder assembly having a base mount member with a at least one base ear with a base bore, and a seed boot with at least one boot ear with a boot bore, a fastening assembly mounting the seed boot to the base mount member is disclosed. The fastening assembly comprises a fastener structure fastening the seed boot to the base mount member by extending through the base bore and the boot bore. The fastening assembly includes a fastener interface device inserted into at least one of the bores. The interface device comprises a substantially tubular insertion portion inserted into the at least one bore and a flange portion connected to the insertion portion, and extends radially outwardly from the insertion portion. |
| US08141500B2 |
Plastic pallet with sleeved reinforcing rods and associated method for making the same
A pallet includes an upper and lower deck. The upper deck includes first joining members that project downwardly from the upper deck, with each first joining member including an outer sleeve. The lower deck includes second joining members that project upwardly from the lower deck, with second joining member including an inner sleeve. At least one of the upper and lower decks includes channels between top and bottom surfaces thereof, with each channel extending from a side edge to an opposing side edge of the corresponding deck. Sleeved reinforcing rods are in the channels. Each sleeved reinforcing rod includes a reinforcing rod having opposing ends and side surfaces therebetween, and a sleeve enclosing the side surfaces of the reinforcing rod, with there being relative movement between the sleeve and the reinforcing rod. The inner sleeves of the second joining members receive the outer sleeves of the first joining members to define a plurality of support blocks joining the upper and lower decks. |
| US08141497B2 |
Sliding-type apparatus for absorbing front shock energy
A sliding-type apparatus for absorbing front shock energy is disclosed. The sliding-type apparatus of the present invention includes a driver panel (130), which is provided on the front surface of a driver's cab defined by a front part protective shell (110) of a railway vehicle so as to be movable backwards, and a bottom shock absorber (150), which is provided under the lower surface of the driver panel (130). The sliding-type apparatus further includes a front shock absorber (170), which is provided on the front surface of the driver panel (130), and a driver panel shock absorber (190), which is provided at a position towards which the driver panel is moved backwards. Thus, when a railway vehicle is involved in a collision, the several shock absorbers are consecutively collapsed to efficiently absorb shock energy. Furthermore, the driver panel is moved backwards without being deformed by the shock energy. Therefore, the safety of the driver is ensured. |
| US08141494B2 |
Partial decomposition with a massive core and core made of pressed powder
The decomposition of a projectile in a target body, particularly a hunting projectile in wild animals after penetration therein, determines the energy output of the projectile and thereby the effect of the shot. For projectiles with double cores, the properties of the ingredients used in the cores decisively affect the decomposition and particularly the deformation behavior of the cores. According to the invention, a partial decomposition projectile comprising two cores is provided with one solid core (3) made of a material suited to said projectile and the second core (4) is made of a powder (5) consisting of metal or ceramic ingredients, said powder being pressed to become free of shrink holes, in order to improve decomposition behavior control. |
| US08141493B1 |
Projectile for use with a rifled barrel
A multi-component projectile is disclosed. The multi-component projectile is designed for use with a rifled barrel and is configured to, upon exiting the rifled barrel, utilize the spinning forces imparted on the projectile while in the barrel to expand until the multi-component projectile achieves a predetermined pattern that is larger than an area of the barrel from which the projectile was fired. Methods of manufacturing the multi-component projectile are also disclosed. |
| US08141490B2 |
Dual fault safe and arm device, adaptive structures therewith and safety and reliability features therefor
A safe and arm device includes a booster base assembly having a booster base housing and a barrier. The booster base housing includes a shaft port extending substantially in line with a longitudinal axis, at least three initiator ports disposed about the axis, and a matching number of explosive transfer paths in respective communication with the at least three initiator ports. The barrier includes a matching number of fire-train transfer ports and a drive shaft. The drive shaft of the barrier is coupled within the shaft port of the booster base housing allowing the barrier to be selectively rotationally positioned about the axis into at least one of a safe position and an arm and fire position, allowing the fire-train transfer ports to be substantially aligned with the explosive transfer paths when the barrier is positioned in the arm and fire position. A booster basket assembly is also provided. |
| US08141488B2 |
Method for improved plate change and sheet-fed offset printing press having a plate change apparatus
An apparatus and a method for changing printing plates in sheet-fed rotary printing presses include a plurality of printing units and plate cylinders being coupled to one another mechanically in the printing units during a printing operation. At the beginning of a plate change, the plate cylinders are coupled to one another mechanically and are driven jointly by a main drive motor. After an old printing plate has been conveyed out, each plate cylinder is decoupled from the common mechanical connection and is driven by a separate drive motor. |
| US08141487B2 |
Printing press having an anilox inking unit with an associated washing device
A printing press includes an anilox inking unit having an engraved roller and a washing device with a feed device for introducing detergent and a removal device for removing the detergent and printing ink. Further rollers are disposed between the feed device and the engraved roller and between the engraved roller and the removal device, as viewed in a conveying direction of the detergent. An effective length of the further rollers increases from the feed device to the removal device. |
| US08141486B2 |
Ink-storage unit for hand-operated stamp
An ink-storage unit (1) for a hand-operated stamp, comprising a trough-shaped container (2) which is open at the top and inside of which an ink-storage body (3) is arranged, the latter being configured to deliver stamping ink (13) to a printing plate in the operating state, wherein at least an attachment frame (5A) is associated with the container (2), the attachment frame being detachably fixable, or fixed, to the upper side of the container (2) to serve as a filling aid. |
| US08141484B2 |
Screen printing plate and screen printing apparatus
A screen printing plate having at least an opening portion that discharges a printing material for forming a target printing pattern on a matter to be printed is provided in screen printing, and the screen printing plate is characterized in that the size of the opening portion is reduced from the target printing pattern and an opening end portion of the opening portion has a projection and recess pattern shaped differently from the target printing pattern shape. By this arrangement, bleeding of the printing material of the screen printing can be controlled and a high-quality and low-cost screen printing plate is provided which can print a target printing pattern accurately and with high transfer performance even for a fine design. |
| US08141483B2 |
Printing plate and method of printing an alignment film using the same
The present disclosure relates to the device and the method for printing an alignment film. The printing plate comprises: a resin plate; a plurality of pixel array embossing pattern formed on the resin plate, for printing the alignment film to a pixel array formed on the glass substrate of the liquid crystal display device; a plurality of dummy embossing pattern formed on the resin plate at which the pixel array embossing patterns are not formed as seeing in the rotating direction of the printing roller; and a grooved pattern formed on the resin plate between the pixel array embossing patterns and between the dummy embossing patterns. |
| US08141474B2 |
Charging mechanism for gas powered firearms
An improved mechanism for charging a gas powered firearm, especially with regard to the Kalashnikov variants of rifles known as AK-47s, comprising a modified gas tube having a lateral aperture formed into its left side, a semi-cylindrical sleeve suitably adapted to fit within the modified gas tube over the shaft of the operating rod, and a modified charging handle suitably adapted to connect to the sleeve and to extend from the firearm through the lateral aperture, such that the firearm may be manually charged from the left side by drawing the charging handle rearward; and providing safety improvements and a method of retrofitting firearms. |
| US08141471B2 |
Initial strike-face layer for armor, a method of constructing an armor plate and armor
The present invention provides an initial strike-face layer for armor, a method of constructing an armor plate and armor. In one embodiment, the initial strike-face layer includes a substantially planar surface having a relief pattern with raised or recessed structures, each of the structures having sides that are oblique to the substantially planar surface. |
| US08141469B1 |
Quick-release spindle for gun tube
The breech end of a gun may include a quick-release spindle assembly. A carrier may have a locking collar rotatably disposed therein. The locking collar may have a through-bore and one or more projections extending into the through-bore. The locking collar may be rotatable between spindle lock and spindle release positions. A spindle may be translatably disposed in the through-bore of the locking collar. The spindle may include one or more projections extending radially outward from a rear outer surface of the spindle. In the spindle lock position of the locking collar, the projections of the spindle may be aligned with the projections of the locking collar to thereby prevent translation of the spindle in a forward direction. In the spindle release position of the locking collar, the projections of the spindle may not be aligned with the projections of the locking collar to thereby allow translation of the spindle in a forward direction. |
| US08141465B2 |
Wire bundle wrap cutting tool
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, a wire bundle wrap cutter is provided for cutting wire bundle wraps. The wire bundle wrap cutter generally comprises a shaft with a cutting end, and a handle end, a cutting head perpendicular to the cutting end, and a handle with a trigger at the handle end. The cutting head defines a channel between a tongue and a blade enclosure. There is a cutting blade disposed in a slot in the blade enclosure which is movable from an enclosed position wherein the cutting edge is inside the blade enclosure to an activated position wherein the cutting edge is moved toward the tongue portion to cut a wire bundle wrap placed in the U-shaped channel. |
| US08141463B2 |
Hand tool for adjusting torsion
A hand tool for adjusting torsion includes a cap. A spindle assembly is fixed to the cap. A tubular adjusting seat is sleeved on the spindle assembly. The adjusting seat has a sliding groove axially spirally defined in an outer periphery thereof. At least one ball is slidably received in the sliding groove and being movable along the sliding groove. A first handle is sleeved on the adjusting seat. The first handle has a torsion spring received therein, a first teethed seat connected to the torsion spring, and a second teethed seat engaged with the first teethed seat. A sliding sleeve is sleeved on the first handle. The sliding sleeve has at least one reset slot annularly defined in an inner periphery thereof for corresponding to the at least one fixing hole. A second handle is abutted against the second teethed seat. A driving rod assembly is fixed to the second handle. |
| US08141460B2 |
Ratcheting wrench
A ratcheting wrench having ratchet structure, a ratchet body, a socket wheel, a plurality of ratchet teeth and at least one pawl. The ratchet body is received into the ratchet structure and is rotatable about a first axis. The socket wheel is received in an aperture in the ratchet body and includes a plurality of tool members that are spaced circumferentially apart from one another about a second axis that intersects the first axis but is not coincident with the first axis. The ratchet teeth and the at least one pawl cooperate to control relative rotation between the ratchet structure and the ratchet body about the first axis. |
| US08141459B2 |
Powered adjustable pipe wrench
The powered adjustable pipe wrench has a motorized rotary grip to rotate a pipe component clamped therein and a laterally spaced stationary grip to hold a second pipe component stationary relative to the first as it is being rotated. The pipe wrench may have a cylindrical jaw housing with semicylindrical fixed and openable portions hinged to one another. One end of the housing includes a powered component to rotate the pipe component held therein, while the other housing end includes jaw components holding the second pipe component stationary. Alternatively, the pipe wrench may have a powered component extending from the jaw of the wrench body to rotate the first pipe component, and a rectilinearly adjustable jaw portion extending from the wrench body. A set of jaw components is axially spaced from the rotary component to hold the second pipe component stationary. |
| US08141450B2 |
Gear wheel
The invention relates to a toothed wheel (1) comprising a toothed rim (2) and a toothed wheel hub (3) provided with an axial toothed wheel hub channel (19) equipped with at least one opening (20, 21) and connecting elements (11, 12, 13) for connecting the toothed wheel hub (3) and the toothed rim (2) in the radial direction and which are disposed at a distance at least in the direction of the circumference. |
| US08141444B2 |
Bearing structure for a reciprocating shaft in a reciprocating saw
A reciprocating shaft assembly in a reciprocating saw moves in a reciprocal motion and drives a saw blade via a blade holder. At least one bore is formed in an end of the reciprocating shaft assembly opposite the blade holder. A pin fixed to the saw passes through the bore and acts as a bearing to support the reciprocating shaft assembly in its reciprocating motion. |
| US08141443B2 |
Probe sensor shaft bearing adaptor assembly with conduit attachment
A probe adaptor assembly includes a probe opening into which a probe can be inserted. The probe is held in place by a compression fitting such that the probe depth, with respect to a longitudinal axis of the assembly, can be adjusted prior to the compression fitting being tightened to secure the probe. A conduit adaptor port is provided. A lubrication fitting provides an opening for a lubricant to be injected into the assembly. The lubrication fitting is coupled to the probe opening so that the lubricant injected into the fitting can exit the probe opening in order to lubricate the system into which the probe is inserted. In one embodiment, the probe adaptor assembly is configured to replace a lubrication fitting for a bearing so that a temperature of the bearing can be monitored while also providing lubrication. |
| US08141439B2 |
Device for sampling metal melts
A device is provided for sampling metal melts, in particular molten iron and molten cast iron, with a sample chamber having an inlet opening and tellurium arranged in the sample chamber. The sample chamber contains 0.01 to 0.05 g/cm3 tellurium based on the volume of the sample chamber and the tellurium is in powder form having an average particle size of at most 150 μm. Additionally or alternatively, the tellurium is in powder form having an average particle size of at least 150 μm and a specific surface area of 0.03 to 0.1 m2/g. |
| US08141437B2 |
Force monitoring system
A system monitors dynamic forces between bearing surfaces. Based on sensed data, the system may model the forces on the bearing surfaces, analyze these forces, store data relating to these forces, and/or transmit data to an external data gathering device. The system includes a first body piece and a second body piece which mate together. The first and second body pieces comprise bearing surfaces that contact a material that may exert a force. A protrusion, such as a pole, post, or beam, extends from first body piece's bearing surface. At least one sensor is disposed on a pole. The at least one sensor detects a mechanical motion of the pole resulting from a force imposed on the body pieces, and generates data indicative of this force. A computer communicates with the at least one sensor and processes the sensed and/or modeled data. |
| US08141436B2 |
Flow meter
A flow meter to be used in a hole drilled in the bedrock for measuring stream flows in bedrock fractures which are transversal to the hole. The flow meter comprises an elongated body having a cross section which is substantially smaller than the diameter of the hole; separating members placed at a distance from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body for separating the examined section from the other parts of the hole in a substantially pressure-tight manner; dividing members for dividing the examined section into two sectors in the longitudinal direction of the hole; and a flow channel extending through the body and equipped with a flow sensor for measuring the direction and rate of the flow between the sectors. In accordance with the invention, the dividing members are formed of thin and elastic sealing strips, which have been fixed to the body and, being substantially perpendicular to the surface of the body, arranged to surround and delimit the sectors. |
| US08141434B2 |
Flow measuring apparatus
A flow measuring apparatus measures a fluid flow within a conduit including a wall. The apparatus includes a transducer arrangement including at least two transducers for alternately emitting and receiving ultrasonic radiation through the conduit wall and the flow. The apparatus also includes a signal processing arrangement for generating signals to excite the transducer arrangement and for processing received signals provided by the transducer arrangement for generating output signals from the signal processing arrangement indicative of properties of the flow. The transducer arrangement in cooperation with the conduit provides a first path for Lamb-wave ultrasonic radiation coupling directly from a first of the at least two transducers, to a second of said at least two transducers to generate a first received signal. The transducer arrangement in cooperation with the conduit provides at least one second path for ultrasonic propagation along the wall via Lamb waves coupling to at least a portion of the flow from a first of the at least two transducers to a second of the at least two transducers to generate a second received signal. The signal processing arrangement determines from said first and second received signals ultrasonic radiation propagation time periods through the first path and through the at least one second path, and to perform computational operations on the propagation time periods to determine properties of the flow including, but not limited to, at least one of: fluid flow velocity (v) in the conduit, a sound velocity (c) through the fluid. |
| US08141432B2 |
Single and multiphase fluid measurements using a coriolis meter and a differential pressure flowmeter
A first property of a process fluid is measured using a differential pressure flowmeter. A second property of the process fluid is measured using a Coriolis flowmeter. A third property of the process fluid is determined based on the measured first property and the measured second property. |
| US08141428B2 |
High pressure sensor
A combined pressure and temperature sensor comprising a tubular member 3 of circular cross section having a closed end and an open end, the open end, in use, connecting to a pressurized environment such that the interior of the tubular member is exposed to the pressure, a flat or preferably a symmetrical distribution of flats 1 being formed on the outer cylindrical surface of the tubular member 3, and a sensor element 2 mounted on at least one said flat 1, which sensor element 2 is sensitive to the strains in the tubular wall of the tubular member 3 resulting the pressure in the interior thereof and the temperature of said tubular member. |
| US08141422B2 |
Detector housing
A duct detector housing includes a housing cover and a housing body having a gas inlet and a gas outlet. The gas inlet is in fluid communication with a gas conveying duct. The housing body is adapted to have a detector therein and being complementary to the cover to form an interface therebetween. A binary mode securement mechanism for securing the cover to the housing body in either only an open or closed position is provided to overcome the uncertainty with conventional housings as to the integrity of the closure. A process for ensuring a cover is closed against a housing body of a duct detector housing includes placing the cover in complementary contact with a surface of the housing body and engaging the binary mode securement mechanism to provide only binary either positive or completely an open or closed position for the cover relative to the housing body. |
| US08141420B2 |
Device for measuring urine flow rate
The present invention provides an apparatus including: a container that receives urine; and a urine amount measuring device that measures the weight of the urine received by the container; wherein the urine amount measuring device has: a mounting plate, which is a plate on which the container is mounted; a measuring portion that measures the weight of the container mounted on the mounting plate multiple times at given time intervals; and an output portion that outputs a result of the measurement performed by the measuring portion, and the apparatus has a fixing structure that is situated in at least a bottom portion of the container and a mounting face of the mounting plate and that detachably fixes the container on the mounting plate. |
| US08141418B2 |
Sampling apparatus and method for sampling
An apparatus and a method for sampling from a product flow, where the sampling is performed continuously and where the product is collected in a cup for determining physical conditions, for example, weight in relation to volume, and where the cup is emptied after ending the sampling. The apparatus is provided with at least one sampling cup provided with a filling opening and an emptying opening with different cross-sectional areas. It is not necessary to perform a turning movement of the sampling cup in order to empty it. Instead, preferably, the sampling cup is emptied by opening/uncovering the bottom. Emptying of the cup and subsequent cleaning of the cup are effected with open bottom by passage of the product flow through the cup; but, emptying may also occur in a separate duct. |
| US08141413B2 |
Particulate matter concentration measuring apparatus
A particulate matter concentration measuring apparatus is configured to measure a concentration of particulate matter in exhaust gas flowing through an exhaust line of a diesel engine. The apparatus includes an exhaust gas extraction line diverging from the exhaust line and having a flow passage cross-sectional area smaller than a flow passage cross-sectional area of the exhaust line. A particulate matter detection filter has a cell wall and is provided in the exhaust gas extraction line. A flow velocity of the exhaust gas passing through the cell wall is more than or equal to approximately 0.02 m/s and less than or equal to approximately 2.0 m/s. A differential pressure sensing part is configured to sense a differential pressure generated between an inlet and an outlet of the particulate matter detection filter. |
| US08141411B2 |
Method for determining a low cylinder pressure condition for a gas chromatograph
A method for determining a low cylinder pressure condition of a gas chromatograph includes providing gas from the cylinder to an inlet of the gas chromatograph. In particular, the gas is provided at a predetermined inlet pressure that is higher than an inlet pressure that is required for a predetermined gas chromatographic analysis routine. The inlet pressure of the gas being supplied to the inlet is increased, in order to attempt to achieve a predetermined check value. It is then determined if the inlet pressure actually increases to at least the predetermined check value. If it is determined that the inlet pressure of the gas does not increase to at least the predetermined check value, then an indication of a low cylinder pressure condition is provided. |
| US08141410B2 |
Method for testing pipettes
The invention is directed to a method for testing batches of tips for pipettes, the method comprising the steps of calibrating a pipette to be tested with a recommended reference tip, fitting the pipette with a tip to be tested and performing a second calibration and recalibrating the pipette with the reference tip. |
| US08141407B2 |
Multi-tool technology
A multi-tool having a plurality of tool-receipt openings adapted to receive respective tools. The multi-tool can be used on turret presses, single-station presses, other industrial presses, or other fabrication equipment. |
| US08141400B2 |
Keypad lockset
A keypad lockset adapted for deadbolt as well as lever locks, and having as a first embodiment an exterior gear train, an interior gear train, and an electronically controlled clutch for coupling the gear trains when engaged and for uncoupling the gear trains when the clutch is disengaged, so that when the clutch is engaged rotation of an external thumb turn will permit the door latch to be withdrawn and thus to permit opening of the door, and a mechanical override mechanism that can be operated in case of electrical failure, and in which clutch mechanism and the override mechanism both operate through the single, standard 2 and ⅛ inch door preparation hole, or alternatively as a second embodiment, a keypad lockset in which two four-bar mechanical linkages are used in place of gears as means to actuate the clutch, and alternatively to provide for a pass-through override function. |
| US08141398B2 |
Side lock apparatus
A side lock apparatus includes: a housing which is fixed to a lid; a disc-shaped rotor which is supported on the housing; and rods which are linked with the rotor, wherein: the housing includes: a bearing portion for the rotor which is provided in such a manner as to extend vertically along the short upper portion of the lid; a first wall; a second wall; and a cylindrical portion which is brought into sliding contact with a disc-shaped outer circumferential surface of the rotor to support the rotor; the rotor is supported on the bearing portion in such a manner that the disc shape thereof becomes horizontal relative to a wall thickness direction of the short upper portion of the lid; and the rods are supported between the first wall and the second wall in such a manner as to slide in an opposite direction. |
| US08141392B2 |
Optical fiber drawing methods and drawing furnaces
Drawing methods and drawing furnaces for drawing an optical fiber with small non-circularity by simple drawing system are provided. An optical fiber preform is received into a muffle tube and heated by a primary heater placed to surround the muffle tube. The optical fiber preform is heated such that a starting position of a meniscus portion is higher in its position than the top of the primary heater, wherein the meniscus portion is created at the bottom portion of the optical fiber preform. |
| US08141388B2 |
Radiation collimator for infrared heating and/or cooling of a moving glass sheet
A glass manufacturing system and a method are described herein that use an enhanced temperature control device to help manufacture a uniformly thick glass sheet that is substantially stress free. In one example, the enhanced temperature control device includes an array of temperature controlled elements and a radiation collimator which together cool the glass sheet with a high degree of spatial resolution so as to reduce stress in the glass sheet and control the thickness of the glass sheet. |
| US08141387B2 |
Process of producing a glass-ceramic, the glass-ceramic made therby and its uses
The process of making the glass-ceramic includes ceramicizing a starting glass at a heating or cooling rate during the ceramicization of at least 10 K/min, so that the glass-ceramic contains at least 50% by volume of ferroelectric crystallites with a maximum diameter of from 20 to 100 nm and not more than 10% by volume of nonferroelectric crystallitesis. The glass ceramic produced by the process contains no pores or not more than 0.01% by volume of the pores and a value of e′·V2max of the glass-ceramic is at least 20 (MV/cm)2, wherein e′ is the dielectric constant at 1 kHz and Vmax is the breakdown voltage per unit thickness. The ferroelectric crystallites preferably have a perovskite structure and are composed of substantially pure or doped BaTiO3 and/or BaTi2O5. |
| US08141382B2 |
Dispenser related technology
A refrigerator, in which a dispensing unit moves between a received position and a dispensing position and a dispensing button unit moves between a stored position and an extended position. The dispensing button unit, in the extended position, controls dispensing of content through a dispenser outlet in response to application of force to the dispensing button unit. The refrigerator includes a dispense amount checking unit that is provided on the dispensing unit, that is at least partially translucent, and that is configured to enable a user's ability to visibly perceive content as it is being dispensed from a dispenser outlet when the dispensing unit is oriented in the dispensing position and the dispensing unit would otherwise at least partially block the user's view of content being dispensed through the dispenser outlet. |
| US08141380B2 |
Air refrigerant type cooling apparatus and air refrigerant cooling/heating system using refrigerant type cooling apparatus
The purpose present invention is to provide an air refrigerant type cooling apparatus provided with an internal air cooling mechanism with high reliability and efficiency. Another object of the present invention is to provide an air refrigerant cooling/heating system with a simplified configuration using the air refrigerant type cooling apparatus. To accomplish the purpose, a heat radiating means is provided in a motor of an air refrigerant type cooling apparatus having a compressor, the motor and an expansion turbine in the present invention. Also, a pressure difference is positively generated between the inside and outside of the motor. By these means, when the motor is driven, the heat from the stator main body is exhausted to the outside of the motor through the heat radiating means and the heat from the coil end portions is exhausted through the cooling air exhausted from the inside to the outside of the motor. Further, a guide plate is located adjacent to the cooling air inlet in the motor, so that the intake cooling air is efficiently guided to the stator coil end portions. By this means, the heat generated from the coil end portions is efficiently exhausted from the inside to the outside of the motor. According to these configurations, an air refrigerant cooling apparatus can be realized. Moreover, by installing the air refrigerant cooling apparatus to a cooling/heating system, an air refrigerant cooling/heating system having simple configuration and very high reliability can be provided. |
| US08141378B2 |
Top plate and mechanical room of a refrigerated showcase
An object of the present invention is to provide a showcase wherein an insulating wall and a top plate of a machine room covering a lower surface of the insulating wall can be stably held and the strength of the entire showcase can be improved. In the showcase, a display room is provided over the insulating wall; a machine room is provided under the insulating wall; a compressor, a condenser and the like of a cooling unit are disposed in the machine room; a cooling room is provided in the insulating wall; and an evaporator and a cooling fan of the cooling unit are disposed in the cooling room so that cold air heat-exchanged with the evaporator is circulated in the display room by the cooling fan, and the showcase further comprises a top plate of the machine room to cover the lower surface of the insulating wall, and the top plate is mounted on and fixed to a pipe plate of the condenser to hold the insulating wall. |
| US08141376B2 |
Air conditioning system having a pressure compensation device
An air conditioning system including an outdoor heat-exchanging unit, at least one indoor heat-exchanging unit, a gaseous refrigerant line connected between the outdoor heat-exchanging unit and the indoor heat-exchanging unit, to allow a refrigerant in a gaseous state to flow between the outdoor heat-exchanging unit and the indoor heat-exchanging unit, and a pressure compensation device for increasing a pressure of the gaseous refrigerant flowing through the gaseous refrigerant line. The pressure compensation device is located along the gaseous refrigerant line at a position closer to the indoor heat-exchanging unit than to the outdoor heat-exchanging unit. A pressure compensation device for use in an air conditioning system is also provided. |
| US08141372B2 |
Method for operating a refrigerating device comprising evaporators which are connected in parallel and refrigerating device therefor
A method for operating a refrigerator includes supplying an evaporator of a second compartment with coolant and flushing the coolant out of the evaporator of the second compartment so that it can be used for an evaporator of a first compartment, closing a coolant circuit to the evaporator of the second compartment, and supplying only the evaporator of the first compartment with coolant. |
| US08141371B1 |
Gas turbine combustion chamber made of CMC material and subdivided into sectors
An assembled annular combustion chamber comprises an annular inner wall and an annular outer wall made of ceramic matrix composite material together with a chamber end wall connected to the inner and outer walls and provided with orifices for receiving injectors. Elastically-deformable link parts connect the inner wall and the outer wall of the chamber to inner and outer casings that are made of metal. The assembly formed by the inner wall, the outer wall, and the combustion chamber end wall is subdivided circumferentially into adjacent chamber sectors, each sector being made as a single piece of ceramic composite material and comprising an inner wall sector, an outer wall sector, and a chamber end wall sector. The link parts connect the inner metal casing and the outer metal casing respectively to each inner wall sector of the combustion chamber and to each outer wall sector of the chamber. The chamber end wall sectors are in contact with a one-piece ring to which they are connected. |
| US08141369B2 |
Method of regulation of the temperature of hot gas of a gas turbine
The invention relates to a method of regulation of the temperature of a hot gas of a gas turbine, particularly of a stationary gas turbine used for generating electricity, which comprises injecting a liquid into an airflow, which can be drawn into a compressor and with the aid of which a fuel inside a combustion chamber, which is situated downstream, combusts while producing the hot gas that is subsequently expanded when flowing through the turbine part located downstream. A temperature measuring device is provided that measures the temperature of the airflow before the compressor, whereby the temperature of the hot gas is regulated by the quantity of fuel. The aim of the invention is to provide a regulation with which, during wet compression operation, the serviceable life of the components subjected to the action of hot gas is lengthened. To this end, the invention provides that the temperature measuring device is mounted before the injecting device, and that the temperature of the airflow is calculated at the entry of the compressor by using the measured temperature. |
| US08141368B2 |
Thermal management for fuel injectors
Methods of managing fuel temperatures in fuel injectors for gas turbine engines include cooling fuel circuits by initiating fuel flow therethrough using opened, closed, and semi-open control techniques. A fuel injector for a gas turbine engine includes a feed arm having a fuel inlet fitting for delivering fuel to at least one fuel conduit extending through the feed arm. A nozzle body depends from the feed arm and has at least one fuel circuit extending therethrough. The fuel circuit is configured and adapted to receive fuel from the feed arm and to issue fuel from an exit orifice of the nozzle body. Sensing means are provided adjacent to the at least one fuel circuit. The sensing means are configured and adapted to provide temperature feedback in order to control fuel flow in the at least one fuel circuit to maintain fuel temperature within a predetermined range. |
| US08141367B2 |
System and methods for pre-heating fuel in a power plant
A method for assembling a fuel supply system for use with a power generation system. The method includes coupling a fuel heater to a fuel source for heating a fuel. A first heating assembly is coupled to the fuel heater for heating a first flow of water channeled to the fuel heater. A heat recovery steam generator assembly is coupled to the fuel heater for channeling a second flow of heated water to the fuel heater. A valve assembly is coupled between the first heating assembly, the heat recovery steam generator assembly, and the fuel heater to enable a flow of heated water from the first heating assembly and the heat recovery steam generator assembly to be selectively channeled to the fuel heater. |
| US08141365B2 |
Plunged hole arrangement for annular rich-quench-lean gas turbine combustors
A combustor may include an outer liner having a first row and a second row of circumferentially distributed air admission holes. The second row of the outer liner may be downstream of the first row of the outer liner, and the air admission holes of the first row of the outer liner may be larger than the air admission holes of the second row of the outer liner. An inner liner is circumscribed by the outer liner and has a third and fourth row of circumferentially distributed air admission holes. The air admission holes of the third row of the inner liner may be larger than the air admission holes of the fourth row of the inner liner. The inner and outer liners may form a combustion chamber, and at least a portion of the air admission holes of the first, second, third, or fourth rows may be plunged. |
| US08141362B2 |
Closed cycle heat transfer device and method
A closed cycle heat transfer device comprising a boiler (10) and a condenser (13), the condenser being used to recover useful heat by latent heat evaporation. A circuit defined by the boiler (10), condenser (13) and ducts (12, 15) is to be liquid-filled at a pressure just above atmospheric pressure. An expansion device (16) maintains the working pressure in the circuit but will receive excess condensate in a liquid phase to compensate for expansion of the working fluid vapor which passes from the boiler (10) to the condenser (13). The expansion chamber contains a movable or flexible member which, when working liquid is received in the chamber, is displaced to compress a gas in the chamber. |
| US08141361B2 |
Natural gas fueled turbocharged internal combustion engine
In a gas fueled internal combustion engine, in particular a natural gas fueled internal combustion engine, as well as in a method for fuelling an internal combustion engine with gas, in particular with natural gas, with a charged “downsizing” Otto engine and an injection of the gas, a homogenous stoichiometric gas-air mixture is set and the charging takes place by an exhaust turbo charger as well as a compressor, which can be turned off and is located above the exhaust turbo charger in the air suction route. |
| US08141360B1 |
Hybrid gas turbine and internal combustion engine
A hybrid engine having a gas turbine engine and an internal combustion engine, both engines driving a common drive shaft. The compressor delivers compressed air to the combustor and to an inlet of the internal combustion engine, the compressed air picks up heat from the internal combustion engine either from the combustion process or through a heat exchanger, and is delivered to the combustor. When the gas turbine engine is not operating by burning fuel, the heated compressed air from the internal combustion engine is used to maintain the shaft speed sufficient for starting the gas turbine engine without the need to bring the turbine engine up to speed prior to ignition. The apparatus and process of the present invention provides a hybrid engine that is light weight, fuel efficient, and with enough available power for high powered situations. |
| US08141350B2 |
Electrically heated particulate filter incomplete regeneration identification system and method
A system comprises a regeneration module and a diagnostic module. The regeneration module controls an electric heater to heat exhaust gas produced by an engine. The regeneration module determines when a regeneration cycle of a particulate matter (PM) filter begins by comparing a temperature of the exhaust gas input to the PM filter and a first temperature threshold. The diagnostic module determines a regeneration status by comparing a temperature of the exhaust gas output by the PM filter and a second temperature threshold during a predetermined period after the regeneration cycle begins. |
| US08141348B2 |
Engine after-treatment controls using dosing below catalyst light-off temperature
A method of controlling dosing of a hydrocarbon fuel into the exhaust gas of a combustion engine upstream of a particulate filter when the exhaust gas temperature into an oxidation catalyst upstream of a particulate filter has dropped below the light-off temperature of the catalyst. |
| US08141346B2 |
System and method for monitoring reductant quality
A method of operating an internal combustion engine having a reductant delivery and storage system in an emission control system, comprising of correlating a change in a monitored operating condition with a refill event to determine whether a reductant-diluting substance has been added to the reductant storage system; and limiting vehicle operation based on the correlation. |
| US08141341B2 |
Vehicle and control method of vehicle
The catalyst smell reducing control in which the fuel cutoff is performed is not executed regardless of the catalyst smelling flag Fs1 equal to ‘1’ (step S140) when the vehicle speed V becomes less than the preset vehicle speed Vref (step S130) while the catalyst deterioration reducing control in which the fuel cutoff is prohibited is being executed (step S150). Such control prevents from executing the catalyst smell reducing control while the suspension of the catalyst deterioration reducing control and prevents performing the fuel cutoff after performing a fuel injection and performing the fuel injection again for a relatively short time in the internal combustion engine. Therefore, it is enabled to reduce an occurrence of a shock due to the temporal decline of the output torque from the internal combustion engine, and is thereby enabled to reduce a sense of incompatibility given to the driver or passenger by reducing the occurrence of the shock due to the execution of the catalyst deterioration reducing control and the catalyst smell reducing control. |
| US08141336B1 |
Combined cycle power augmentation by efficient utilization of atomizing air energy
A combined cycle power plant includes a gas turbine having a first compressor, a second compressor downstream of the first compressor, and a regenerative heat exchanger between the first and second compressors. A steam generator is downstream of the gas turbine and receives exhaust from the gas turbine. A closed loop cooling system through the regenerative heat exchanger and the steam generator transfers heat from the regenerative heat exchanger to the steam generator. A method for operating a combined cycle power plant includes compressing a working fluid in a compressor and cooling the compressed working fluid with a regenerative heat exchanger so as to create a cooled compressed working fluid. The method further includes transferring heat from the regenerative heat exchanger to a steam generator. |
| US08141334B2 |
Apparatus and filtering systems relating to combustors in combustion turbine engines
A combustor for a combustion turbine engine that includes: a chamber defined by an outer wall and forming a channel between windows defined through the outer wall toward a forward end of the chamber and at least one fuel injector positioned toward an aft end of the chamber; and a multilayer screen filter comprising at least two layers of screen over at least a portion of the windows and at least one layer of screen over the remaining portion of the windows. The windows include a forward end and a forward portion, and an aft end and an aft portion. The multilayer screen filter is positioned over the windows such that, in operation, a supply of compressed air entering the chamber through the windows passes through at least one layer of screen. The multilayer screen filter is configured such that the aft portion of the windows include at least two layers of screen, and the forward portion of the windows includes one less layer of screen than the aft portion of the windows. |
| US08141323B2 |
Apparatus and system to increase capacity of granular material storage structures
An apparatus and method for increasing storage capacity of granular material storage structures. The apparatus includes a curtain assembly supportable from the roof structure of the granular material storage structure and above the sidewalls thereby defining a second volume within which the granular material may be filled which is above the first volume defined by the interior volume of the sidewalls and the volume defined by the angle of repose of the granular material. |
| US08141322B2 |
Method and system for using rain water in buildings
The present invention provides a method, apparatus, and system to conserve resources, particularly rain water, by providing for water storage within building walls and other structural components. The building water storage allows reuse of water at that location that in the past has generally flowed to storm drains as runoff. Besides allowing reuse, another advantageous effect is that the structure may become a well insulated unit. |
| US08141321B2 |
Stair tread overlay and method
A stair tread overlay includes a tread and a front nosing attached to a front edge of the tread by a tongue and groove joint to provide a strong mechanical joint between the nosing and tread. Adhesive may be applied at the tongue and groove joint to enhance the strength of the joint. A horizontally symmetrical side nosing having a profile matching the profile of the front nosing may be attached an edge of the tread adjacent to the front nosing. The stair tread and nosings may be in the form of a kit used to cover an existing staircase to enhance the appearance of the staircase. The method of making the overlay is also disclosed. |
| US08141320B2 |
Construction connector anchor cage system
An anchor member securing system includes a securing member and a rebar cage structure secured to the member. The securing system may include at least a first foundation placement guide. The anchor members may comprise mudsill anchors and anchor bolts, and the system provides more exact placement of the member or members in a foundation. |
| US08141319B2 |
Back plate bracketing system
A bracketing system is provided having two brackets joined by a flexible adhesive material that allows bridging or backing members of variable lengths and widths to be mounted between vertical studs to enhance stability of the wall construction. A wall construction assembly according to an embodiment of the invention comprises two vertical studs and a bridge backing member mounted there between by a bracketing system, which includes a left bracket and a right bracket connected by a flexible adhesive material. Because the bridge backing member can be adjustably sized to be secured on the brackets, it can be sized to fit between studs regardless of any variation in the spacing of the studs. This obviates the need to prefabricate bridge backing members to fit between variably spaced studs. The bridge backing member can be mounted flush with the stud to eliminate unevenness in the wall structure. Bridge or backing members of various widths and lengths can be mounted to the bracketing system. |
| US08141312B1 |
Batten for tile roofs with standoff clip
A wooden strip and a plurality of metal clips comprise or define a batten for securing tiles to a roof. Each clip includes a generally flat bottom and a pair of upwardly extending arms. Each arm includes an outwardly extending flange. Each flange includes at least a single barb extending upwardly for securing the clip to the wooden strip. The barbs are punched out of the flanges and extend into the bottom of the wooden strip to secure the clips to the wooden strip. The bottoms of the clips are flat to be disposed on the roof, with the arms supporting the wooden strip off the roof. |
| US08141310B2 |
Thin brick and tile drainage system
A sheet is provided for placing a brick or tile facing on a support structure that has an arrangement of apertures for the passage of fluids such as water. The sheet has an approximately rectangular conformation that includes a front and a back. The sheet defines channels between longitudinally aligned parallel partitions that are separated by a wall. Each channel receives the thin bricks or tiles. The structure of the partitions varies and can include an upward facing first portion that has an arrangement of apertures and a downward facing second portion. A liquid, such as water, that drains down the front of the sheet passes through the apertures in the first portion to the sloped second portion and is then redirected to the back of the sheet. The apertures also provide for the circulation of air. A method is provided for the drainage of liquid from the front of the sheet to the back of the sheet by providing a partition in the sheet that has at least one aperture that passes liquid from the front to the back of the sheet. |
| US08141308B2 |
Prefabricated corner post
A prefabricated corner post (10) and associated method for attachment to an external corner (106) on a building (100). An angled body (12) has adjacent panels (14, 16) that form an inner corner (18) having inner flat surfaces (20, 22) adapted to closely engage the building corner (106), and an outer corner (24) forming an outer flat surface (26) that extends to side edges (28, 30). A nailing flange (32, 34) extends from the inner flat surface of each panel beyond a respective side edge of the outer surface. A trim piece (36) closely conforms to and is slidable vertically along the outer surface between an installation position (38) and a final position (40). Each panel of the body has a through hole (42) from the outer to the inner surface at the final position of the trim piece. In the installation position of the trim piece the through holes are exposed for receiving screws to secure the body directly to the building walls, and thereafter the trim piece can be slid to the final position to cover the holes and screws. |
| US08141299B2 |
Negative loading snubber for casement window
A casement window with a snubber assembly for maintaining the position of the window sash in the frame. The snubber assembly includes a pair of snubbers. Each snubber has a base portion and a hook-shaped flange extending from the base portion. One of the pair of snubbers is mounted to the frame and the other is mounted to the sash. The snubbers may be disposed such that when the sash is in the closed position, a contact surface of each snubber engages an interface surface of the other snubber. The hook-shaped flanges of the snubbers are adapted for releasable engagement when negative pressure is applied to the window sash. |
| US08141296B2 |
Apparatus for automatically opening and closing, locking and unlocking bathroom stall door
An apparatus and system for automatically opening and closing a bathroom stall door. The system includes a motor for driving the door open or closed. A control unit controls the operation of the motor. An outer activation sensor senses a presence of a person in proximity to the outer activation sensor. Upon sensing a presence of a person in proximity to the outer activation sensor by the outer activation sensor, the control unit commands the motor to open the door and automatically close the door after a predetermined time period. When an inner activation sensor senses a presence in the proximity to the inner activation sensor, the control unit locks the door lock. When the inner activation sensor senses a presence in proximity to the inner activation sensor a second time, the control unit unlocks the door lock and commands the motor to open the door. |
| US08141295B2 |
Casement window operator
An operator for a casement window, the operator comprising a base, at least one arm for securement to the base, an upper securement member extending through an aperture in the base and an end of the arm with the securement member having a threaded recess therein. A lower screw securement member is screw threadedly engaged with the upper one to assist in drawing the arm into the desired position. A monocoque housing surrounds the operator and has sealing members to prevent air infiltration. |
| US08141293B2 |
Tube for plant cultivation preventing root twist
A biodegradable cultivation tube, particularly designed to minimize root-twisting using specifically constructed tube edge profiles and tube holes. The cultivation tube has evaporation reducing and moisture trapping properties including a fluid absorbing material and an evaporation protection skirt. |
| US08141290B2 |
Machine gun accessory mount
A universal accessory mount for a heavy machine gun includes an annular base adapted to be disposed concentrically over a front end of a shroud of the gun and having diametrically opposing upper and lower accessory mounting tines extending forwardly therefrom. A holding mechanism pulls a planar floor of a counterbore in the rear of the base into contact with a planar front surface of the shroud of the gun. The holding mechanism includes a pair of threaded bolts extending rearwardly from the base through respective ones of a pair of diametrically opposing bolt apertures contained in the base, and a pair of cleats, each having an opening into which a rear end portion of a respective one of the bolts is received and a respective hook adapted to grip the shroud of the gun through a respective hole in the shroud. |
| US08141286B1 |
Cheek rest for firearm
There is shown in this invention a face cheek rest for a firearm that cushions a shooter (to generally aim then shoot) against uncomfortable interaction with harsh surfaces on a firearm buttstock or body. The cheek rest provides a secure, easy to clamp on and use interface, which is very comfortable and cushioning. The device is made to be light weight as well as low cost and aesthetically pleasing. This cheek rest can be used equally well on a weapon employing a folding metal butt stock assembly, other type collapsible firearm butt stock, or most any other standard type firearm. |
| US08141285B2 |
Firearm including improved hand guard
A firearm includes a receiver and a barrel connected to the receiver. A hand guard extends from the receiver and defines a hand guard bore. The receiver includes a threaded end and the hand guard includes a flange extending into the hand guard bore and abutting the receiver about the threaded end. A hand guard nut abuts the flange of the hand guard and threadedly engaging the threaded end of the receiver. The hand guard nut sandwiches the flange between the hand guard nut and the receiver for attaching the hand guard to the receiver. The hand guard includes a first hand guard portion and a second hand guard portion removably attached to the first hand guard portion. The second hand guard portion is slid from an assembled position to a disassembled position to expose the hand guard nut in the hand guard bore. |
| US08141284B2 |
Stereopsis LED aqua lamp photo frame structure
A stereopsis LED aqua-lamp photo frame assembly includes a base inside which an impedance heating type resistor that generates heat and an LED component that emits light are mounted. The base supports an aqua-lamp photo frame that has front and rear surfaces respectively forming front-side and rear-side recessed chambers. One of the recessed chambers receives and holds therein a photo or a picture. The aqua-lamp photo frame forms therein a flow channel at a portion thereof corresponding to the two recessed chambers, whereby the heat generated by the resistor causes a low boiling point flowable medium contained in the aqua-lamp photo frame to flow and with the brilliant lighting provided by the LED component, spangles contained in the flowable medium can entrain the flowing medium to pass through the flow channel, serving as embellishment of the photo or picture, thereby enhancing a stereopsis effect of the photo frame. |
| US08141281B2 |
Display apparatuses
An apparatus includes a display body having a three-dimensionally contoured exterior shape and an interior, hand-receiving cavity extending within the display body. An optional display cover may be mounted on a selected portion of the display body or included in an unassembled kit. The display cover bears a communication attribute and is configured for repeated removal from and replacement on the display body. The apparatus may be configured for use by a person as a hand-mounted display. |
| US08141279B2 |
Steam ironing device, ironing board and ironing system, with means for providing an electrically charged steam output
A steam ironing device (10) provides an ionized steam output using an ionizing arrangement (30). The ionization process, in particular the high energy electric discharge used for ionization, breaks down steam particles into finer particles. As a result, a greater proportion of the steam particles generated can penetrate into the fabric of the garment being ironed, to improve fabric treatment and fabric moistening. Air ionization can also be used. The ionization process is improved by limiting the temperature of the steam. |
| US08141271B2 |
Shoe with improved construction
A shoe construction wherein the upper is secured to the outsole by a stitch, and the upper folds inwardly in a first portion of the shoe and outwardly in a second portion of the shoe. The stitch allows an upper row of the stitching to be visible on the outside of the upper in one portion of the shoe but not visible on the outside of the upper in a different portion of the shoe. |
| US08141265B2 |
Scale track
A metrological scale track comprising at least first and second metrological scale track strips. The at least first and second metrological scale track strips are held in a spaced apart relationship by at least one spacer. The at least one spacer is configured to be removed once the at least first and second metrological scale track strips have been secured to a substrate. |
| US08141263B2 |
Apparatus for measuring an inside diameter of a hole of a workpiece
An apparatus for measuring an inside diameter of hole of a workpeice comprises a main body, two probing legs, two pressure sensors, a controller unit, a display unit, and a step-motor. The two probing legs have a first end and a two second end. Two pressure sensors are respectively mounted on the second end and configured from generating a pressure signal in response to a reacting force applied thereon by an inner wall in the hole. The step-motor is configured for driving the two probing legs to rotate so as to enable the pressure sensors to about against the inner wall. The controller unit is configured for controlling the step driving the probing legs to rotate in response to the pressure signal and computing a rotation angle of each probing leg. The display unit is configured for display the inside diameter of a the hole. |
| US08141262B1 |
Device for measuring the length of a fish
A fish measuring device includes a flat, flexible base and an elongate, flexible tape measure secured to the base. A fish is positioned atop the base and the base is wrapped around the fish to inhibit its movement. Releasable fasteners maintain the base in the wrapped configuration during the measurement. The tape measure is extended into parallel, overlying relation to the fish so that the length of the fish may be measured. At least one stiffener is disposed in sliding engagement to the tape measure and is held in a vertical plane near the head of the fish. The tape measure is held taut from an exit point of the stiffener in parallel relation to the fish so that the measurement can be made. At least one suction cup is formed in a reverse side of the base so that the base is releasably secured to a flat support surface. |
| US08141260B2 |
Cable fleet angle sensor
A method and system for monitoring a fleet-angle of a cable. An embodiment may monitor the fleet-angle of a cable being spooled or unspooled in multiple radial directions and without use of a mechanical monitoring apparatus. The method and system may employ a fleet angle sensor device having a bell-shaped aperture across which propagate one or more collimated light beams that may be used to detect excessive fleet-angle of the cable. The light beams may be generated by a fleet-angle sensor disposed in the fleet angle sensor device proximate to the aperture. Various light-beam patterns within the aperture may provide different advantages when determining deviations of the cable from the aperture center axis. |
| US08141259B2 |
Method of determining the dip of a formation
A method of determining the dip or apparent dip of a section of a subterranean formation is described using the measurements of a borehole gravity meter and a dip-dependent model for the response of the gravity meter. |
| US08141257B2 |
Hand-held reciprocating power saw
A hand-held reciprocating power saw (10) includes a reciprocation member (21) for reciprocatingly moving a working tool, a compensation mass (22), a motor-driven eccentric wheel (23) having a first eccentric (24) for reciprocatingly displacing the reciprocation member (21) and a second eccentric (25) for reciprocating the compensation mass (22) along an axis (A), with the outer surface (28) of the second eccentric (25) engaging in an opening (26) provided in the compensation mass (22) and defined by a circumferential wall (27), and an intermediate member (30) arranged between the circumferential wall (27) and the outer surface (28) of the second eccentric (25) at least in the contact regions (41, 42), between the circumferential wall (27) and the outer surface of second eccentric, with the intermediate member (30) having a first radial extension (R1) oriented parallel to the axis (A) and a second radial extension (R2) oriented perpendicular to the axis (A) and greater than the first radial extension (R1). |
| US08141256B1 |
Ceiling tile relief cutter
A manually operable ceiling tile cutting tool has a blade slidably retained in one of several pockets or slots in the tool. Each of the pockets formed by complementary grooves and ridges defines a flat blade receiving surface, is a differing predetermined distance from a bottom of the tool which corresponds to a standard dimension in a ceiling tile relief for a suspended ceiling. |
| US08141250B2 |
Method of manufacturing a droplet discharging head
A droplet discharging head comprises a pressure chamber in which fluid is filled through a channel, and a nozzle that is connected to the pressure chamber and which discharges the fluid as a droplet. After the droplet discharging head is assembled, at least the wall surfaces contacting the fluid are coated with a carbonized silicon film. |
| US08141243B2 |
Method of manufacturing circuit board
A method of manufacturing a circuit board including forming a plurality of first holes in a semiconductor substrate, each of the first holes being opened toward a front surface of the semiconductor substrate, filling a bottom side of the plurality of first holes with an insulating layer, filling the first holes filled with the insulating layer on the bottom side thereof with a first electro-conductive layer, polishing the semiconductor substrate from the back surface thereof until the respective insulating layers filled in the plurality of first holes are exposed, and forming a second hole in each of the exposed insulating layers so as to reach the first electro-conductive layer, and forming a second electro-conductive layer by filling each second hole with the second electro-conductive layer to connect the first electro-conductive layer. |
| US08141240B2 |
Manufacturing method for micro-SD flash memory card
A method for fabricating MicroSD devices includes forming a PCB panel having multiple PCBs arranged in parallel rows, with each PCB connected to its neighboring PCBs in each row by relatively narrow connecting bridge pieces, and separated from PCBs of adjacent rows by elongated stamped out blank slots. Passive components are attached by conventional surface mount technology (SMT) techniques. IC chips, including a MicroSD controller chip and a flash memory chip, are attached to the PCB by wire bonding or other chip-on-board (COB) technique. A molded housing is then formed over the IC chips and passive components using a mold that prevents formation of plastic on the upper surface of each PCB. The connecting bridge pieces are then cut using using a rotary saw. A front edge chamfer process is then performed. |
| US08141239B2 |
Drive assembly for a sleeve housing device in a magazine
A system for changing sleeves that can be pushed onto ink transfer roller cores of a printing machine includes at least one magazine, at least one travel device, and a drive. The magazine includes at least one sleeve mounting device that is movable relative to a frame of the magazine. The travel device is connectable to the magazine so that the magazine is movable in the vertical and/or horizontal direction. The drive, which is a component of the travel device, provides a drive force or drive torque to move the sleeve mounting device relative to the frame of the magazine. |
| US08141236B2 |
Ganged removal of component device cover screws
An apparatus for removal of retentive mechanisms retaining a cover of a component device. The apparatus includes a structure. The apparatus also includes a component device positioner coupled to the structure. The apparatus additionally includes a plurality of retentive mechanism removers coupled with the structure. Each of the plurality of retentive mechanism removers are configured for interoperability with each retention mechanism retaining a cover of a component device having a plurality of retention mechanisms disposed therein. The apparatus further includes a drive mechanism that is coupled with the structure. The drive mechanism is for rotation of each of the plurality of retentive mechanism removers, causing removal of each retention mechanism retaining the cover of the component device. |
| US08141233B2 |
Method for manufacturing a lamination for electric motor rotor
A method for manufacturing a lamination for electro motor rotors that have skew or helical slots by forming at least one boss on a face of the lamination and reducing a thickness of a first portion of the boss. The reduction in thickness may be by carrying out a localized narrowing of the thickness of the first portion and the boss may be manufactured by pressing the lamination. The localized narrowing may be carried out by misalignment of a die relative to a punch within a mould. |
| US08141231B2 |
Electric motor
An electric motor is described in which a first magnet wire forms a first pole of the coil, is disposed across two terminals of a fuse, and terminates at a first end on a power switch. The portion of the first magnet wire between the terminals of the fuse is severed such that all current of the motor must travel through the conductor of the fuse. The second end of the first magnet wire terminates at dual tang terminal disposed on the brush housing. |
| US08141228B2 |
Force resistant purse ring
A method for manufacturing a purse ring is disclosed. In the method, a heat-treated steel frame interrupted by a gap is fabricated to partially circumscribe a passageway. At the edges of the gap, the frame includes a pivot mount and a push button biased to extend from an aperture are separated by a gap distance. Also, a heat-treated steel pivot arm is connected to the pivot mount. Structurally, the arm forms a key guide that terminates at a stop. In the method, a heat-treated steel sleeve forms a channel to slidably receive the arm. Also, the sleeve includes a key that slides within the guide to limit movement between the sleeve and the arm. Further, the sleeve includes a lateral opening that receives the push button to limit the maximum distance between the pivot member and the lateral opening to be substantially equal to the gap distance. |
| US08141227B2 |
Assembly of sheet materials, tube assembly, drawing method and tools for drawing
An assembly of sheet materials in which a first sheet of material and a second sheet of material are disposed in an overlapping relationship, with a plurality of joint portions being formed therebetween by drawing an overlapping part of the first and second sheets of materials at a plurality of positions. The plurality of joint portions includes at least one first joint portion in which the first sheet of material is laterally extruded into the second sheet of material and at least one second joint portion in which the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material are in contact with each other in a cup-like surface configuration. |
| US08141226B2 |
Method of sheathing a stent
A method of sheathing a stent including the steps of providing a stent assembly including a catheter member and a stent member disposed about the catheter member; placing a first sheath film adjacent one side of the stent assembly; placing a second sheath film adjacent an opposite side of the stent assembly, and compressing the stent assembly, whereby the first and second sheath films move toward each other and substantially surround the stent assembly. The first and second sheath films are provided in rolls. Compressing is implemented by a radial compression mechanism. The first and second sheath films pass through the radial compression mechanism. Compressing sheaths the stent assembly and crimps the stent onto the catheter. As an alternative to two sheath films, a single film may be used, whereby compressing surrounds the stent assembly with the single sheath film. Also disclosed in an apparatus for sheathing a stent, including a compressing mechanism; a sheath film supply; a film feeder for moving at least one sheath film from the film supply through the compressing mechanism, and a stent input system for moving a stent assembly into the crimping mechanism. |
| US08141218B2 |
Method for manufacturing a double walled pipeline
A method for manufacturing a double walled pipeline comprises providing a pipeline section including an inner tubular member and an outer tubular member, providing a coupling member, and controlling the stress distribution in the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member by coupling the inner tubular member and the outer tubular member directly to the coupling member. |
| US08141216B2 |
Method of manufacturing ultrasound probe
An ultrasound probe comprising a transmitting piezoelectric layer, an electrode layer and a receiving piezoelectric layer laminated in that order, the ultrasound probe transmitting and receiving an ultrasound, wherein a polarization treatment on the receiving piezoelectric layer is carried out by providing a peelable dielectric layer on the receiving piezoelectric layer. |
| US08141212B2 |
Tie down tensioning device
A simple and inexpensive device for a reliable tie down tensioning which device enables the tie-down to be quickly and easily applied and the flexible element tensioned and just as quickly and easily removed. |
| US08141210B2 |
Two-stage quick release interconnect and locking device
A quick release interconnect and locking device having a base plate with a post A circular and planar D-shaped disc is disposed on an end of the post. The apparatus has a female element with a contoured channel. A keeper plate with a vertical slot is placed over the contoured channel. A medial portion of the contoured channel includes an upper locking face terminating at a lower end in radius, such that when the D-disc is aligned parallel with the upper locking face, the D-disc may be translated downwardly until it encounters a locking portion, where it may again be rotated to bring the sliding face into alignment with a locking face and may then be translated downwardly to a semi-circular portion at the bottom of the contoured channel, where it may be rotated to lock it in the lower locking portion. |
| US08141207B2 |
Two-axis hinge device and mobile terminal apparatus
A two-axis hinge device includes a first-rotation-axis defining unit which defines a first rotation axis; a rotating arm fixed to a first housing, the rotating arm being provided on the first-rotation-axis defining unit such that the rotating arm is rotatable around the first rotation axis; a second-rotation-axis defining unit fixed to a second housing, the second-rotation-axis defining unit having a substantially cylindrical shape and defining a second rotation axis which is substantially perpendicular to the first rotation axis, the first-rotation-axis defining unit being fixed to and supported by the second-rotation-axis defining unit; and a hole-communicating connector fixed to the second-rotation-axis defining unit, the hole-communicating connector having a substantially cylindrical shape and being provided with a hole which communicates with a hole in the second-rotation-axis defining unit. |
| US08141204B2 |
Safety structure of an auto-eject pull handle for travel bag
Installed in an auto-eject pull handle that is mounted in a travel bag and ejectable out of the travel bag to a predetermined elevation by an ejecting mechanism subject to the control of a control button, a safety structure includes a holder member that has an opening that accommodates the control button, and a sliding cover coupled to the holder member and slidable to between a closed position to keep the control button from sight and an open position to let the control button be exposed to the outside for operation. |
| US08141203B2 |
Floor tool for a surface treating appliance such as a vacuum cleaner
A floor tool for a cleaning appliance includes a head engaging with a floor surface, a connecting arm pivotally connected to the head about a first axis and a supporting body pivotally connected to the head about a second axis. The head includes a suction opening which lies in a suction plane, and the connecting arm includes an outlet in communication with the suction opening and adapted to connect to the cleaning appliance. The first and second axes lie parallel to one another in a plane which is substantially parallel to the suction plane. By providing a pair of parallel axes which lie in a plane parallel to the suction plane, the floor tool can have a reduced depth while still being able to achieve the desired “rocking” motion to improve cleaning performance. The height of the floor tool can thus be minimized. |
| US08141201B2 |
Electric fan
A side plate of an impeller is formed so that the height thereof is lowered gradually from an edge portion of a central opening portion toward a circumferential portion. When the distance from the edge portion of the central opening portion to the circumferential portion, in a direction perpendicular to the output shaft, is taken as L, the distance from the edge portion of the central opening portion to the circumferential portion, in the direction of the output shaft, is taken as H, a point on the side plate away from the edge portion of the central opening portion by 0.1×L in the direction perpendicular to the output shaft is taken as P, and the distance from the edge portion of the central opening portion to the point P in the direction of the output shaft is taken as ΔH, ΔH/H≧0.4 is satisfied. With this configuration, the formation of a vortex flow in the flow channel inside the impeller from the air inlet to the air outlet is reduced, and, thus, air blowing efficiency is improved. |
| US08141199B1 |
Heat exchanger system
A coil heater assembly has a housing. The housing has a heated gas inlet and a heated gas outlet. The coil heater assembly has a plurality of coils. The coils are formed of a single tube. The coils are shaped into separate coils with a water inlet and a water outlet. Each of the coils is spiraled around its own unique axis. The axes are parallel with respect to each other. In this manner the heat transfer between the gas and water within the coil heater assembly is maximized. |
| US08141195B2 |
Siwak tooth cleaning instrument
The siwak tooth cleaning instrument provides a carrying, protecting and application instrument for a siwak stick, to be applied to the user's teeth for cleaning thereof. In some embodiments, the siwak tooth cleaning instrument includes a tubular housing with a siwak that may be selectively and adjustably raised and lowered to extend the siwak from the housing for cleaning one's teeth, and retracted within the housing for storage and transport, similar to a lipstick. In other embodiments, the siwak tooth cleaning instrument has tooth cleaning cartridges including a siwak that releasably engage the head portion of an elongated handle. A cover may be pivotally attached to the handle for covering the handle and attached cartridge, or a storage tube with replacement cartridges may be pivotally attached to the handle. |
| US08141194B2 |
Absorbent structures with integrated contact elements
A device comprising an absorbent structure and one or more resilient contact elements integrated into the absorbent structure is disclosed. The absorbent structure is preferably a sponge or foam structure and the resilient contact elements are squeegees, nodules, or combinations thereof. In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the resilient contact elements include anchor features that are embedded within the absorbent structure. |
| US08141191B2 |
Pool cleaning vehicle having algorithm for moving
Disclosed herein is using a combination of pump and drive motor activation and deactivation the vehicle can be turned and programmed to avoid vertical and other obstacles. |
| US08141188B2 |
Brake system for wall arm
An arm is pivotally coupled to a support structure at one end and a patient care equipment support, such as a service head, is pivotally coupled to the arm at the other end. The arm has a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion for extension and retraction relative to the first portion. Brakes are provided to brake the extension and retraction of the portions of the arm, to brake the pivoting movement of the arm relative to the support structure, and to brake the pivoting movement of the patient care equipment support relative to the arm. Each of the brakes is releasable. |
| US08141180B2 |
Insert for a counter-current swimming pool
The invention relates to a kit for a counter-current swimming pool, wherein water is pumped inwards on a defining wall of a swimming pool (1) along the entire horizontal extension thereof and is discharged on the opposite boundary wall along the entire horizontal extension thereof. In order to enable retrofitting of the kit into existing swimming pools, an insert (2, 3) is formed or incorporated into the swimming pool (1), comprising a cover plate (4, 5) which defines the swimming area below and from which boundary walls (6, 8) emanate. The boundary walls extend in a parallel or substantially parallel manner as far as the bottom of the swimming pool, wherein, in the region between the boundary walls (6, 8), axial propelling means, i.e. propellers (10) are provided together with a drive device and wherein the cover plates (4, 5), when seen in the direction of flow, terminate both on the front end (14) and rear end (15) with the formation of a gap (16, 17), which is used to pump in or to discharge water, at a distance from the adjacent wall of the swimming pool. |
| US08141178B2 |
Water saving triple flush mechanism for a toilet cistern
A water flush mechanism has a plunger having a plug and a stem connected to the plug. There is a lower float located around a lower portion of the stem and a middle float located around the stem. There is an upper float located around the stem. The float is connected to an upper portion of the stem so lifting of the float causes the plunger to rise. |
| US08141173B2 |
Shower garment
A garment for use in a shower is disclosed. The shower garment includes a first panel, a second panel, and a strap. The strap has a first end releasably coupled to a second end thereof and is adapted to extend around a waist of a user. The first panel and the second panel depend from the strap and substantially cover the pelvic region and the buttocks, respectively, of the user. |
| US08141171B2 |
Split cowl neck bib
A bib portion with left and right top ends formed by a split circular opening and a cowl neck split along the back having a left side end with an inside surface and an outside surface and a right side end having an inside surface and an outside surface where a bottom end of the split cowl neck is attached around the split circular opening with the split in the split cowl neck aligned with the split in the split circular opening. Mating strips of a loop and hook connector are attached to left and right sides of the split in the cowl neck to closely position the split cowl neck around a child's neck and a loop of material is attached to a connector strip or a side end of the cowl neck split to function as a finger pull when separating the connector strips. |
| US08141170B2 |
Knee protection device and method
A knee protection apparatus has a knee protecting portion affixed atop one or more fixator struts which surround the side of a user's lower leg, and descend behind the leg near the Achilles tendon area of the wearer and continuing into the user's shoe where a heel cup grasps the user's foot at a posterior and plantar portion of the heel. The fixator strut or struts work to minimize or eliminate the vertical, horizontal and rotational movement of the knee pad away from its primary and intended area of protection at the patella. |