| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08147601B2 |
Composite electroless plating
This invention is directed to a process for electrolessly metallizing an article, as well as to a plating bath and the subsequent plated substrate. The process comprises contacting the surface of an article with an electroless metallizing bath which may be essentially free of toxic and/or heavy metals. |
| US08147600B2 |
Pressure-based dissolved gas removal system
A fuel gas removal system includes a venturi for reducing a pressure of the fuel, a bubble separator containing media to assist in the formation of gas bubbles within the fuel to separate the gas bubbles from the fuel, and a port to remove gas bubbles created by the reduction of pressure of the fuel and the bubble separator. |
| US08147599B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for storing and/or filtering a substance
Apparatuses, systems, and methods for loading and/or unloading a substance into or from a sorption media. A substance is presented at an edge of the sorption media, which comprises parallel layers of a sorption material. To load (i.e., via absorption and/or adsorption) the substance into the sorption media, heat is transferred away from the sorption media, a loading voltage is applied to the sorption media, and/or a pressure is increased relative to the sorption media. To unload the substance from the sorption media, heat is transferred into the sorption media, a voltage of an opposite polarity from the loading voltage is applied to the sorption media, and/or a pressure is decreased relative to the sorption media. In some embodiments, the sorption media includes surface structures that may load molecules of the substance. |
| US08147598B2 |
Gas adsorbing device, vacuum heat insulator making use of gas adsorbing device and process for producing vacuum heat insulator
A jacket material into which a gas adsorbing device and core material are inserted is decompressed in a vacuum chamber, the opening is sealed, and then the jacket material is exposed to the atmosphere. In the atmospheric pressure, a pressure of about 1 atm which is equivalent to the pressure difference between the inside and outside is applied to the jacket material of the heat insulator. The jacket material is made of a plastic laminated film and is deformed by pressure. A protruding portion is plunged into a container to drill through holes, and a gas adsorbent in the container communicates with the inside of the jacket material. Thus, both during holding and in applying to the vacuum heat insulator, the gas adsorbent can be applied to the vacuum heat insulator without degradation, and the high degree of vacuum can be kept for a long time. |
| US08147596B2 |
Hydrogen permeable film and method for manufacturing the same
A hydrogen-permeable film has a ceramic material of a nitride or oxide of a metal element belonging to group IVB, VB or VIB and hydrogen-permeable metal particles of at least one kind selected from palladium (Pd), niobium (Nb), vanadium (V), tantalum (Ta) and alloys thereof dispersed in the ceramic material. A ratio of the hydrogen-permeable metal particles in the hydrogen-permeable film is 20 to 70 mass %, and a thickness of the hydrogen-permeable film is 5 to 1,000 nm. |
| US08147595B2 |
Membrane material for gas holder and gas holder using the same
There is provided a membrane material for a gas holder having abrasion resistance and flex resistance usable as a gas holder, in addition to strength of a base fabric, and having high gas barrier properties. A membrane material for a gas holder, which is used in a gas holder for storing or recovering gas, includes at least 4 layers of a protective layer, a base fabric layer, a gas barrier layer and a protective layer laminated in this order. |
| US08147591B2 |
Systems and methods for reducing off-gassed ozone
Systems and methods for producing an ozone destructor are disclosed herein. Generally, these systems and methods include an ozone destructor that has a housing defining an air passage duct. In some cases, this air passage duct includes a first chamber and a second chamber that are arranged so that air is able to flow into the first chamber, through the second chamber, and out of the destructor. In some cases, an air drying mechanism is disposed in the first and/or the second chamber. Additionally, in some cases, the ozone destructor further includes multiple mechanisms that reduce ozone to oxygen. In light of these features, the ozone destructor is capable of incrementally drying and reducing air and ozone, respectively, as they pass through the first chamber and the second chamber. |
| US08147590B2 |
Fluid filter separator and method
A filter separator and method, including an annular microfilter and a separation chamber within the microfilter including a plurality of mixing blades circulating fluid upwardly and downward within the chamber. When the apparatus is used to purify syngas, adherent metal oxide particles are circulated in the chamber to adsorb waste oxides. The apparatus is purged by injecting hot CO2 free gas into the chamber through the filter and the filter pores may be expanded during purging. |
| US08147589B2 |
Method for producing spherical activated carbon
The invention relates to a method for producing spherical activated carbon, wherein polymer globules, which comprise thermally decomposing chemical groups, are carbonized. It is characterized by that during the carbonization, a supplier of free radicals is added to the polymer globules, the supplier of free radicals forming free radicals, which are different from the free radicals that are generated by the decomposition of the chemical groups. |
| US08147587B2 |
Enhanced mercury capture from coal-fired power plants in the filtration baghouse using flue gas temperature as process control knob
A system and associated method for improved mercury removal from a flow containing combustion exhaust. The system includes a filtration arrangement through which the flow proceeds to remove material, including mercury, from the flow. The system includes a sensor arrangement sensing a mercury concentration within the flow downstream of the filtration arrangement and providing a signal indicative of the sensed mercury concentration. The system includes an adjustable temperature control arrangement changing a temperature of the combustion exhaust proceeding to the filtration arrangement in response to the signal indicative of the sensed mercury concentration to change an amount of mercury being removed from the flow. |
| US08147586B2 |
Method for producing molybdenum metal powder
Method for producing molybdenum metal powder. The invention includes introducing a supply of ammonium molybdate precursor material into a furnace in a first direction and introducing a reducing gas into a cooling zone in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The ammonium molybdate precursor material is heated at an initial temperature in the presence of the reducing gas to produce an intermediate product that is heated at a final temperature in the presence of the reducing gas, thereby creating the molybdenum metal powder comprising particles having a surface area to mass ratio of between about 1 m2/g and about 4 m2/g, as determined by BET analysis, and a flowability of between about 29 s/50 g and 86 s/50 g as determined by a Hall Flowmeter. The molybdenum metal powder is moved through the cooling zone. |
| US08147583B2 |
Multiple layer filter media
The invention provides a multiple layer filter media for removal of particles from a fluid stream. The multiple layer filter media may include a depth filtration layer, a membrane filtration layer and a support layer. Additional layers may be present. The membrane filtration layer may comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The various layers of the multiple layer filter media may be bonded together through a plurality of point bonds. The point bonding process may include simultaneously bonding multiple layers of the multiple layer filter media together in a single operation. The point bonds may be created using ultrasonic bonding. |
| US08147581B1 |
Gas solid mixture separator
A separation housing houses a rotor with multiple suspension chambers. Each chamber has a radially extending web portion between two rotating discs. An orifice is provided through the radially extending web portion. Another web portion urges gas radially out of the rotor. Passages through the rotating disks permit entry of gas and solid particle mixtures into the suspension chambers at high speed traveling toward each other in a suspension adjacent to the orifice. The web portion that urges gas out of the chamber pulls gas away from the suspension zone. Gas moving through the aperture and into a clean gas chamber pulls gas in the opposite direction. The result is gas in the suspension zone being fixed relative to the rotor or changing direction. Centrifugal force moves solid particles radially out of the chamber. |
| US08147578B2 |
Reduced restriction air filter
A filter assembly and filter element are provided utilizing a given volume of space effectively and efficiently with low restriction. An irregular shape filter is provided to fit the space, including a filter element circumscribing an inner plenum and having an axially extending sidewall. The sidewall has a differential axial height as it circumscribes the inner plenum. |
| US08147575B2 |
Multi-stage oil separation system including a cyclonic separation stage
A separator for separating a liquid-gas flow into a liquid and a compressed gas includes a housing that defines an inner space and that is adapted to contain the full pressure of the compressed gas. The housing includes a liquid-gas inlet, a liquid outlet, and a gas outlet. A first stage separator is positioned to receive the liquid-gas flow from the inlet. The first stage separator is operable to separate a first portion of the liquid from the liquid-gas flow. A second stage separator includes a swirl vane separator and is positioned to receive the liquid-gas flow from the first stage separator and is operable to separate a second portion of the liquid from the liquid-gas flow. A third stage separator is positioned to receive the liquid-gas flow from the swirl vane separator and is operable to separate a third portion of the liquid from the liquid-gas flow. The first stage separator, the second stage separator, and the third stage separator are completely contained within the housing. |
| US08147571B2 |
Fuel processor for a fuel cell arrangement and a method of operating a fuel processor for a fuel cell arrangement
The fuel processor (10) comprises a desulphurization reactor (12), a catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14), a combustor (16) and a pre-reformer (18), means (20) to supply a hydrocarbon fuel to the desulphurization reactor (12), means (24) to supply air to the catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14) and means (24) to supply air to the combustor (16). The desulphurization reactor (12) is arranged to supply desulphurised hydrocarbon fuel to the catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14) in first, second and third modes of operation, to the combustor (16) in a first mode of operation to the pre-reformer (18) in a third mode of operation. The combustor (16) is arranged to supply oxygen depleted air and steam to the pre-reformer (18) in the first mode of operation. The catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14) is arranged to supply hydrogen to the desulphurization reactor (12) in all three modes of operation. The catalytic partial oxidation reactor (14) is arranged to supply the pre-reformer (18) in all three modes of operation and the pre-reformer (18) is arranged to supply product gases to the fuel cell arrangement. |
| US08147563B2 |
Organic catalyst with enhanced enzyme compatibility
This invention relates to cleaning compositions comprising organic catalysts having enhanced enzyme compatibility and processes for making and using such cleaning compositions. |
| US08147561B2 |
Methods and devices to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake
The present invention relates to methods and devices that help to curb appetite and/or reduce food intake. In one embodiment, the methods and devices of the present invention include a small intestinal/duodenal insert comprising an elongated member with at least one flow reduction element that can cause the stimulation of one or more biological signals of satiety. |
| US08147560B2 |
Implant and method for the production of an implant
An implant for insertion into a human or animal body which comprises at least one implant part is provided. The at least one implant part has a base member which is produced from an implant material and has a surface which is designed at least partially in the form of an artificial joint surface. Part of or the entire joint surface is covered with a wear-reducing hard material coating, such that a service life of the implant is extended and the compatibility of the implant increased. An intermediate layer is provided between the hard material coating and the at least one joint surface formed from the implant material for the purpose of reducing tension between the hard material coating and the implant material. A corresponding method for production of an implant is also provided. |
| US08147555B2 |
Artificial disc prosthesis for replacing a damaged nucleus
A multi-piece disc replacement implant device for replacing a disc removed by a discectomy including an upper plate member, a lower plate member, and an intermediate resilient member providing movement between the two plate members replicating the natural movement of the spine including flexion/extension, lateral bending, and, in some embodiments, rotation. The plate members are rigid and have orthogonal sidewalls forming an enclosure. The resilient member is an elastic solid or a multi-chamber balloon structure of fluid-filled sacks that collectively define a non-uniform shape such as an oblate spheroid, or a helically coiled string of beads. Such an implant is capable of supporting the compressive and cyclic loads required of a natural disc. The upper and lower plate members are cooperatively formed to selectively limit the allowable range of motion in any given direction. Alternate embodiments of the invention may be employed in conjunction with removal of the nucleus pulposus when removal of the annulus fibrosus (annulotomy) is not required or desirable. |
| US08147549B2 |
Orthopedic implant with sensor communications antenna and associated diagnostics measuring, monitoring, and response system
A diagnostic system is provided that occupies a small area, provides sensing and transmitting of various diagnostic indicia, and with the aid of a healthcare professional, diagnoses and responds to such measurements. In the context of the spine, the diagnostic system comprises a spinal implant situated between two adjacent vertebrae, an antenna for sending and/or receiving signals to and/or from a remote location, a sensor for measuring at least one diagnostic condition, an activating element that has the ability to affect the at least one diagnostic condition, a power source to provide power to the diagnostic system, and a network that electrically connects the antenna, sensor, activating element and battery source. |
| US08147548B2 |
Interspinous process implant having a thread-shaped wing and method of implantation
Systems and method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can includes an implant comprising a spacer and a frame having a central body and a helical shaped wing extending from the central body. The frame can be positioned near about adjacent spinous processes, and can be rotated and urged so that the adjacent spinous processes pass within a groove of the wing, thereby allowing the wing to be arranged on an opposite side of the adjacent spinous processes. The spacer can then be arranged over the frame so that the spacer contacts and distracts the spinous processes, thereby limiting relative movement of the adjacent spinous processes during extension. |
| US08147547B2 |
Spinal implant
Embodiments for a spinal implant having elements that are accessible by a surgical approach and releasably engagable by a surgical tool for improved revision of the spinal implant about a patient's spine. |
| US08147546B2 |
Method and apparatus for graft fixation
A method and apparatus for surgically coupling a soft tissue replacement into a tunnel of a bone are disclosed. The method includes forming a loop of a soft tissue or soft tissue replacement. A pair of prosthetics are coupled to the loop of soft tissue to form an artificial bone-tendon-bone graft. The prosthetics and soft tissue are then placed within a tunnel formed in a bone. The relative position of the prosthetic is then fixed with respect to the tunnel. |
| US08147545B2 |
Eustachian tube device
The present invention provides a device stenting the ET. The stent (device) provides enhanced ventilation and drainage to the middle ear. Also provided is a method for inserting the device into the Eustachian tube and through the isthmus of a human subject. |
| US08147543B2 |
Artificial valve for implantation and related methods
An artificial valve (100) and related methods are provided for implantation in a patient's blood vessel (200), in particular an artificial heart valve, including a first (10) and a second (20) valve member each having a first smooth surface (11, 21) facing each other so as to form a sealing contact between the first and second valve members and further having at least one blood flow passage (13, 23a) extending from the first surface to a second surface (12, 22) located on an opposite side of the respective valve member, wherein at least one (10) of the valve members is arranged so as to be displaceable relative to the other (20) valve member in a slidable manner such that the passage (23a) of the second valve (20) member can be brought into at least partial alignment with the passage (13) of the first valve member (10) while maintaining the sealing contact between the first and second valve members, and a displacing mechanism (M; 50-56) for the relative displacement of the valve members (10, 20). The valve members can be made from ceramics. A valve system comprises the artificial valve (100) and additional components such as a motor (M), an energy source (E), a control unit (C), a pressure sensor (P), a feed back system and/or an alarm system. |
| US08147542B2 |
Adjustable repair chords and spool mechanism therefor
A method and device is provided, including implanting, at an intraventricular site of a ventricle of a patient, a spool coupled to a first end portion of a longitudinal member, and coupling a second end portion of the longitudinal member to a portion of tissue facing a lumen of the ventricle. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08147540B2 |
Taxane coatings for implantable medical devices
This disclosure relates to implantable medical devices coated with a taxane therapeutic agent, such as paclitaxel, in one or more solid form(s) having varying dissolution rates. Particularly preferred coatings comprise amorphous and/or solvated solid forms of taxane therapeutic agents that provide durable coatings that release the taxane over a desired period of time, which can be varied in the absence of a polymer by selecting the type and amount of solid forms of the taxane therapeutic agent in the coating. Other preferred embodiments relate to methods of coating medical devices and methods of treatment. The coatings can provide a sustained release of the taxane therapeutic agent within a body vessel without containing a polymer to achieve the desired rate of paclitaxel elution. |
| US08147539B2 |
Stent with a coating for delivering a therapeutic agent
The invention relates generally to a medical device for delivering a therapeutic agent to the body tissue of a patient, and methods for making such a medical device. More particularly, the invention is directed to a stent, such as an intravascular stent, having an inner and outer coating compositions disposed thereon. In another embodiment, the inner coating composition and outer coating composition are separated by a barrier coating composition. |
| US08147538B2 |
Covered stent
A covered stent comprises a coiled sheet stent having at least a portion with open cell geometry and a graft material covering at least a portion of the coiled sheet stent. |
| US08147534B2 |
System and method for delivering and deploying an occluding device within a vessel
A system and method for deploying an occluding device that can be used to remodel an aneurysm within the vessel by, for example, neck reconstruction or balloon remodeling. The system comprises an introduer sheath and an assembly for carrying the occluding device. The assembly includes an elongated flexible member having an occluding device retaining member for receiving a first end of the occluding device, a proximally positioned retaining member for engaging a second end of the occluding device and a support surrounding a portion of the elongated flexible member over which the occluding device can be positioned. |
| US08147533B2 |
Device and method for the reduction of pain associated with needle sticks
A device that is used to reduce the pain of a needle stick to a person, the device having a casing containing a vibratory device and a temperature reducing device, and a method for using the device to reduce the pain of a needle stick by applying both thermal and vibration analgesia to a subject during a needle stick. |
| US08147531B2 |
Compression pin with opposed threaded regions
A compression pin for urging two bone regions together includes a pin body having a distal end, an opposed proximal end, a first threaded region, and a second threaded region. The first threaded region is positioned near the distal end, and the second threaded region is positioned near the first threaded region. The first threaded region includes a first thread having a FT leading surface that is at a FT leading angle, and the second threaded region includes a second thread having a ST leading surface that is at a ST leading angle that is different than the FT leading angle. During insertion of the compression pin, the first threaded region and the second threaded region cooperate to aggressively compress the bone regions together. |
| US08147530B2 |
Variable axis locking mechanism for use in orthopedic implants
A locking mechanism assembly to allow locking of a fastener in an orthopedic implant having its axis at a variable angle relative to the axis of a concavely rounded through opening in the implant. The assembly includes a convexly rounded ring shaped locking cam insert which mates with the through opening and further which includes an expansion slot. The cam insert includes two cam raceways on the inside that are engaged by cam members on the head of the fastener. The cam members increase radially and expand the insert in the through opening to hold it in position by friction. The cam insert further includes a stop member that inhibits the cam insert from rotating as the fastener is rotated in the cam insert and locks it into the desired position. |
| US08147525B2 |
Bone anchor assembly and methods of use
A method of treating the spine of a patient involves inserting anchors into vertebrae and connecting the anchors to a longitudinal member via housings. After insertion of the anchors, the housings containing a longitudinal member are positioned over the anchors and fastened. |
| US08147521B1 |
Systems and methods for treating spinal deformities
Systems and methods of treating spinal deformity, including one or more intervertebral implants to be introduced laterally into respective intervertebral spaces, a plurality of bone screws introduced generally laterally into vertebral bodies adjacent to the intervertebral implants and/or the intervertebral implants themselves, and a cable dimensioned to be coupled to the bone screws and manipulated to adjust and/or correct the spinal deformity. |
| US08147518B2 |
Dynamic connector for spinal device
The present invention provides a dynamic stabilization device positionable about a portion of a spinal column. The stabilization device may generally include a first component and a second component, where the first and second components are movably coupled to one another to define an arcuate path of motion. The stabilization device may also include one or more adjustment elements positionable within first and second adjustment openings to affect the path of motion between the first and second components and/or the behavior and characteristics of the movement. In addition, one or more resistive elements may be adjustably positionable within either and/or both of the first and second adjustment openings to provide resistance and/or dampening of the forces experienced as the first and second components move relative to one another. The stabilization device may further define a joint having three degrees of freedom to adapt to movement of a spinal column. |
| US08147514B2 |
Apparatus and method for securing a portion of a body
An anchor connected with a suture is moved through a passage between opposite sides of a bone. The anchor is then pivoted to change its orientation. A second anchor is connected with the suture. While tension is maintained in the suture, the suture is secured against movement relative to the anchors. This may be done by tying the suture or by using a suture retainer to hold the suture. A suture retainer may be used in place of the second anchor. The passage may extend across a fracture in the bone. The passage may have either a nonlinear or linear configuration. The passage may be formed by first moving a thin elongated member through the bone. The thin elongated member is then used as a guide for a drill. The thin elongated member is withdrawn from the drill and the suture anchor is moved through a passage in the drill. |
| US08147513B2 |
Apparatus for sealing surgical punctures
Apparatus is provided for sealing a puncture within a vessel or tissue to provide hemostasis, comprising a first disk coupled to either a second disk or a spring, and sealingly engaged to the vessel or tissue surrounding the puncture. At least the first disk is preferably configured to substantially conform to the profile of the vessel or tissue when deployed. In one embodiment, the disks may be released from engagement with the vessel or tissue to reposition the disks after deployment. |
| US08147503B2 |
Methods of locating and tracking robotic instruments in robotic surgical systems
In one embodiment of the invention, a method is disclosed to locate a robotic instrument in the field of view of a camera. The method includes capturing sequential images in a field of view of a camera. The sequential images are correlated between successive views. The method further includes receiving a kinematic datum to provide an approximate location of the robotic instrument and then analyzing the sequential images in response to the approximate location of the robotic instrument. An additional method for robotic systems is disclosed. Further disclosed is a method for indicating tool entrance into the field of view of a camera. |
| US08147501B2 |
Anastomosis method
The present invention provides improved and simplified methods of vascular or hollow organ suture-less anastomosis for attachment of artificial standard vascular graft to the vessel wall in order to reduce the duration of the surgical procedure and its costs. |
| US08147499B2 |
Dynamic distractor
A dynamic distractor is described for distracting an intervertebral space and determining a size of an artificial intervertebral disc to be implanted in the intervertebral space. |
| US08147498B2 |
Method and apparatus for assembling implants
An apparatus and method for implanting a prosthesis includes implanting a first component into a recess in a bone. The first component defines a main body defining a receiving portion and a locating bore. A second component is located into engagement with the first component, the second component defining a passage therethrough. A rod is inserted through the passage defined on the second component and into the locating bore of the first component. A handle associated with the rod is slidably actuated into contact with the second component to matingly lock the first component to the second component. |
| US08147489B2 |
Open vessel sealing instrument
A disposable open electrosurgical forceps for sealing tissue is disclosed in the present disclosure. The disposable open electrosurgical forceps comprise a pair of first and second shaft members containing a fiber reinforced thermoplastic blend material having fiber strands of at least 2 millimeters in length. Each shaft member includes a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof which are movable from a first position in spaced relation relative to one another to at least one subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each of the jaw members also includes an electrically conductive sealing plate for communicating electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween. At least one of the jaw members includes a knife channel defined along a length thereof which is dimensioned to reciprocate a cutting mechanism therealong. An actuator is included for selectively advancing the cutting mechanism from a first position wherein the cutting mechanism is disposed proximal to tissue held between the jaw members to at least one subsequent position wherein the cutting mechanism is disposed distal to tissue held between the jaw members. The actuator includes a trigger which cooperates with a rack and pinion system to advance the cutting mechanism from the first to second positions through tissue held therebetween. |
| US08147488B2 |
Surgical operating apparatus
A surgical operating apparatus includes a sheath, a probe body which is inserted through the sheath, and in which ultrasonic vibration is configured to be transmitted, a probe distal end portion which is provided at a distal end portion of the probe body and configured to function as one of bipolar electrodes, and a jaw which is rotatably supported on a distal end portion of the sheath, has an engaging surface which is engaged with the probe distal end portion, and has a second electrode section which is the other of the bipolar electrodes, wherein the jaw includes, at a distal end portion of the engaging surface for engagement with the probe distal end portion, a distal end chip which tolerates a positional displacement relative to the probe distal end portion when the jaw is engaged with the probe distal end portion. |
| US08147485B2 |
System and method for tissue sealing
An electrosurgical system is disclosed. The electrosurgical system includes an electrosurgical generator adapted to supply electrosurgical energy to tissue. The electrosurgical generator includes impedance sensing circuitry which measures impedance of tissue, a processor configured to determine whether a tissue reaction has occurred as a function of a minimum impedance value and a predetermined rise in impedance, wherein tissue reaction corresponds to a boiling point of tissue fluid, and an electrosurgical instrument including at least one active electrode adapted to apply electrosurgical energy to tissue. A tissue cooling period is provided to enhance operative outcomes. |
| US08147479B1 |
Monitoring stress on a therapeutic agent during patient delivery
A physician, nurse, or other healthcare practitioner can deliver a therapeutic agent to a patient in a manner that maintains effectiveness of the therapeutic agent, via monitoring and controlling shear, stress, or other potentially detrimental effect. A gauge, meter, or other monitoring device can provide an indication of shear (or other effect) that the therapeutic agent is experiencing during delivery. The monitoring device can provide information relevant to delivering the therapeutic agent in a manner that maintains effectiveness, thereby guiding the practitioner during delivery. For example, the monitoring device can display an estimate of shear based on sensing flow rate or pressure. The therapeutic agent can comprise one or more therapeutic cells, such as progenitor cells or stem cells, or some other healing substance delivered via a cardiac catheter to the patient's cardiovascular tissue, for example. |
| US08147472B2 |
Folded absorbent product
Absorbent structures are disclosed which may be incorporated into liquid absorbent products, such as diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and the like. The absorbent structures are made from a fibrous material and include a pair of opposing lateral flaps. The lateral flaps are folded onto the fibrous web. By folding the lateral flaps onto the fibrous web, greater basis weight areas may be formed on the absorbent structure. By varying the width of the lateral flaps, the basis weight differential may be increased and decreased. The lateral flaps also form the widest portion of the web material for facilitating folding during a continuous process. |
| US08147471B2 |
Sanitary napkin with braid
The present invention relates to a sanitary napkin whose securing means includes a “braid” of absorbent material. The braid structure maximizes absorbency, while minimizing bulk and thus allows the pad to be comfortably held in place during use, in much the same way that the popular underwear are held. |
| US08147470B2 |
Pants-type diaper
The present invention provides a disposable pants-type diaper including on a crotch region thereof a separator adapted to prevent feces from coming in contact with the wearer's skin. A basic structure has the crotch region, which is provided with a folded sheet piece attached thereto so as to form the separator. The folded sheet piece is obtained by folding back the sheet piece along a first transverse center line thereof to define a first half and a second half placed upon each other and bonding end edges of these two halves to each other at responsive middles of these end edges in a transverse direction. With the first transverse center line brought close to a second transverse center line, the folded sheet piece is placed upon the crotch region and the lateral edges of the first half are bonded to the crotch region while a region of the first half defined by the lateral edges is kept to be spaced from the crotch region. Then, the basic structure is folded back along the second transverse center line and the inner surface of the basic structure is bonded to the outer surface of the lateral edges of the second half while a region of the second half defined between the lateral edges is kept to be spaced from the crotch region. Of the basic structure folded back in this manner, the front and rear waist regions are bonded along the lateral edges to make the basic structure in a pants-shape. |
| US08147466B2 |
Method of determining a skin agent transferred to skin
A method of determining an amount of skin agent transferred from an absorbent article to an area of human skin is provided. An absorbent article is applied to and then after use removed from an area of skin. Tape is then releasably attached to and removed from the area of skin. The amount of skin agent that adheres to the tape is then analyzed to determine the amount of skin agent transferred to the area of skin. |
| US08147464B2 |
Drip chamber and fluid level sensing mechanism for a fluid delivery system
The fluid injector system includes a source of injection fluid, a pump device, a fluid control device operably associated with the pump device, and a fluid path set in fluid connection with the source of injection fluid and the pump device. The fluid path set includes a drip chamber including an elongated body having a top end, a bottom end and a raised projection, the raised projection being substantially rectangular in shape and extending longitudinally from the top end along the drip chamber body and terminating adjacent to the bottom end. A fluid level sensing mechanism is operably associated with the fluid control device, and includes a drip chamber support for supporting the drip chamber body and a fluid level sensor associated with the drip chamber support. The drip chamber support is adapted to support the drip chamber body such that the raised projection is in operational contact with the fluid level sensor and the fluid level sensing mechanism is operable to transmit ultrasonic or light energy through the raised projection to be sensed by the fluid level sensor for sensing the injection fluid level in the drip chamber. |
| US08147463B2 |
Fluid purge in a medical injection system
One embodiment of the invention provides a method to purge air or liquid from a powered injection system. In this embodiment, the method includes driving a first pumping device in a first operational mode to inject an amount of a first liquid medium through disposable tubing and a disposable valve, driving the first pumping device in a second operational mode to deform the disposable valve, and driving a second pumping device to inject an amount of a second liquid medium through the disposable tubing and the deformed valve. In one embodiment, the first pumping device comprises a first syringe, the second pumping device comprises a second syringe, and the disposable valve comprises an elastomeric valve. |
| US08147447B2 |
High precision infusion pump controller
A controller for closed loop control of infusion devices is described. A variety of infusion systems are described that use the closed loop control architecture. In some embodiments the closed loop control may be adapted to current commonly used infusion means such as a gravity feed intravenous system. Other embodiments describe infusion pump system that use biasing or drive mechanisms of springs, elastomers, rotary and linear motors. |
| US08147443B2 |
Indirect fluid flow measurement
A method for ablating tissue comprising controlling a heating element using a variable phase angle control to heat an ablation fluid to a desired temperature and determining a heating percentage corresponding to a percentage of a maximum available heating power represented by a current level of power supplied to the heating element and, when the heating percentage remains below a threshold level for a predetermined period of time, indicating a flow obstruction condition of the fluid. |
| US08147440B2 |
Blood reservoir incorporating a vapor trap
The present invention consists of a blood reservoir that incorporates a separate chamber designed to trap condensing water vapor. The blood chamber and the vapor trap are in fluid communication along their top assuring that vacuum applied to the top of the vapor trap is equally applied to the blood chamber. The combination is also structured to prevent condensate water accumulating in the vapor trap chamber from overflowing into the blood chamber as well as provide a structure that allows the end user to empty the water in the vapor trap chamber. |
| US08147439B2 |
Ankle-foot orthosis
An ankle-foot orthosis having a tubular calf brace and a splint. The calf brace is configured to substantially enclose and compress a calf of a patient and includes a front wall, a rear wall and a chute formed at the rear wall. The splint includes a footplate and a stalk extending from the footplate, the stalk being insertable into the chute of the tubular calf brace to removably secure the splint to the tubular calf brace. |
| US08147438B2 |
Adjustable wrist brace
Provided herein are wrist braces with improved adjustability and performance features. An exemplary wrist brace includes a flexible support casing to enclose a user's wrist; securing loops, mounted substantially along and extending outwardly from the support casing; an elastic securing member passing through at least one of the securing loops; and a puller, attached to the ends of the elastic securing member, configured to adjustably tension the elastic securing member with respect to the casing. |
| US08147437B2 |
Spinal orthosis to inhibit kyphosis and to minimize disk disease
In one embodiment, a method of treating a patient includes attaching a shoulder unit to a left shoulder and a right shoulder of a patient, the shoulder unit including a left shoulder portion and a right shoulder portion; securing an anchoring device to a lower body region of the patient; pulling on the left shoulder portion and the right shoulder portion so as to move the shoulders of the patient in a rearward direction; releasing the left shoulder portion and the right shoulder portion; and repeating the pulling and releasing. |
| US08147436B2 |
Powered orthosis
A powered orthosis, adapted to be secured to a corresponding body portion of the user for guiding motion of a user, the orthosis comprising a plurality of structural members and one or more joints adjoining adjacent structural members, each joint having one or more degrees of freedom and a range of joint angles. One or more of the joints each comprise at least one back-drivable actuator governed by a controller for controlling the joint angle. The plurality of joint controllers are synchronized to cause the corresponding actuators to generate forces for assisting the user to move the orthosis at least in part under the user's power along a desired trajectory within an allowed tolerance. One embodiment comprises force-field controllers that define a virtual tunnel for movement of the orthosis, in which the forces applied to the orthosis for assisting the user may be proportional to deviation from the desired trajectory. |
| US08147435B2 |
Body massager with illumination effects
The present invention discloses a massage apparatus having a housing with a massage formation for contacting a body part of a user. A massage mechanism is oriented within the housing for imparting a massage effect to the massage formation. A light source is provided on the massage formation for conveying an illumination effect from the massage formation. A partially translucent massager is disclosed for providing a visual effect of the underlying massage operation. Further, a roller massage assembly is provided wherein a load imparted to a roller is distributed directly to a structure of the massager for preventing distribution of the load to the massage mechanism. |
| US08147432B2 |
Skin massage device
A skin massage device having a handset connected to a machine body. The handset in turn has a chamber closed by a deformable membrane which adheres to a patient's skin by virtue of a vacuum generated in the chamber by a vacuum generating device. The device also has an electronic device for producing a variable vacuum in the chamber to deform the membrane and so lift, fold, compress, and smooth the patient's skin as to perform the massage cycle set by the operator. |
| US08147430B2 |
Apparatus and method for testing a horse's tendons and ligaments
An apparatus for testing a horse's tendons and ligaments includes a base plate and a rotatable plate with a guide member for receiving and positioning one of a horse's hooves thereon. A rod or lever is provided for manually rotating the rotatable plate up to and include an angle of 55° and a scale or indicator is provided for indicating the angle of rotation. A method for testing the horse's tendons and ligaments is also described. |
| US08147428B2 |
Device and method for quantifying edema
The preferred embodiments of the present invention are directed at a device that provides a reliable, accurate and quantifiable measure of a patient's edema. The device improves on the current method of digital manipulation by evaluating the pitting phenomena in a user-independent manner. The output of the device allows a physician to categorize edema into at least ten different levels of severity. The systems of the present invention provides the ability to distinguish between tissues of varying viscosity. |
| US08147425B2 |
Centesis instrument
A centesis instrument, wherein a patient applies a contact part to a palm, a finger, or an arm in the state of gripping an outer tube by hand and presses the outer tube against its measured portion. A third coiled spring is compressed to increase spring power. When the outer tube reaches a prescribed position, the tip face of the vertical portion of a centesis button reaches a hole part, and a projected part is allowed to be pressed. When the patient presses a button body from a direction perpendicular to the axis of the button body by using a finger at that position, a locking piece is separated from a locking part and the centesis needle of a centesis needle unit is instantaneously projected from the opening part of the contact part to the measured portion by the spring power of the third coiled spring for centesis. Thus, a prescribed amount of blood can be taken out from the measured portion. |
| US08147421B2 |
System and methods for determining nerve direction to a surgical instrument
System (20) and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments (30) employed in accessing a surgical target site. |
| US08147417B2 |
Tourniquet timer
A timer for tourniquet, adapted for application in a surgery, emergency or military situations to stop arterial blood loss in an injured limb, which is optionally activated by use of the tourniquet and/or optionally provided in association with a monitor for a plurality of tourniquets. |
| US08147416B2 |
Implantable systemic blood pressure measurement systems and methods
Implantable systems, and methods for use therewith, for monitoring arterial blood pressure on a chronic basis are provided herein. A first signal indicative of electrical activity of a patient's heart, and a second signal indicative of mechanical activity of the patient's heart, are obtained using implanted electrodes and an implanted sensor. By measuring the times between various features of the first signal relative to features of the second signal, values indicative of systolic pressure and diastolic pressure can be determined. In specific embodiments, such features are used to determine a peak pulse arrival time (PPAT), which is used to determine the value indicative of systolic pressure. Additionally, a peak-to-peak amplitude at the maximum peak of the second signal, and the value indicative of systolic pressure, can be used to determine the value indicative of diastolic pressure. |
| US08147411B2 |
Enhanced intraluminal flow measurement system using reference and shifted signals
An enhanced intraluminal flow measurement system and method is conducive for a low-power ultrasonic system that can use continuous-wave (CW) Doppler sensing and wireless RF telemetry. Applications include measurement of blood flow in situ in living organisms. Implementations include an extraluminal component located outside of a body, such as a human or animal body, containing a lumen. The extraluminal component can be wirelessly coupled via an RF magnetic field or other RF field to an implantable intraluminal component. The intraluminal component (i.e. implant) is implanted inside of the lumen of the body such as a heart or elsewhere in a vasculature (such as in a dialysis shunt). The intraluminal component can telemeter, via RF electromagnetic signals, flow data directly out of the body housing the intraluminal component to be received by the extraluminal component. |
| US08147402B2 |
Endoscope system
An endoscope system of the invention includes: an endoscope including an insertion portion, a distal end portion provided on a distal end side of the insertion portion, and a bending portion which is capable of changing a position and an orientation of the distal end portion; a position detecting section for acquiring position information on a position where the distal end portion is located; a passing target position setting section for setting a passing target position for the distal end portion; a path estimating section for estimating a path through which the distal end portion is to be passed; a bending control target position setting section for setting a bending control target position such that the distal end portion reaches the passing target position along the path; and a bending control information calculating section for calculating an amount of bending and a bending direction of the bending portion. |
| US08147400B1 |
Penile implant with dilatant liquid
A body implantable penile prosthetic assembly includes a penile implant and a reservoir. The penile implant includes a first bladder and a second bladder, where the second bladder contains a dilatant liquid. The reservoir is connectable with the first bladder of the penile implant. In this regard, fluid transferred from the reservoir into the first bladder of the penile implant imposes a shear on the dilatant liquid in the second bladder of the penile implant to increase viscosity in the dilatant liquid and harden the penile implant. |
| US08147397B1 |
Urethral needle guide device
Methods and devices for treating female urinary incontinence by injecting bulking material into the female urethral wall. Some devices include a handle, an elongate member attached to the handle, and a vacuum generating syringe removably secured to the handle. The elongate member can include a distal portion projecting distally from the handle, the distal portion having a wide proximal region, a narrowing shoulder, and a narrow distal region. The elongate member can include one or more vacuum ports on either side of the shoulder region. The shoulder can include a distally facing needle aperture allowing passage of a needle for injecting bulking agent. A rotatable connection between the elongate member and the handle facilitates rotatable positioning of the elongate member to permit injection of bulking material at different locations around the urethral wall. In use, the urethral tissue can be pulled to conform against the device elongate member by generating a vacuum through the elongate member ports, inserting the needle through the elongate member and needle aperture, and predictably injecting bulking material inside of and along the immobilized urethral wall. The self contained vacuum generator, simple design and wide allowable margin of needle travel allow for use in a practitioner's office. |
| US08147396B2 |
Neonate imaging sub-system
A radiographic imaging sub-system for treating neonates is disclosed. The subsystem includes a radiographic compatible incubator for providing a controlled environment for a neonate, a radiographic compatible RF coil selectively coupled to the incubator for providing radiographic imaging of the neonate, and a radiographic compatible trolley for transporting the incubator and the RF coil. Additionally, the sub-system can include a radiographic MR compatible vital signs monitor, a radiographic compatible infusion pump, a radiographic compatible injector, a radiographic compatible ventilator, a radiographic compatible blender, radiographic compatible intravenous pole, tanks, pressure reducers/gauges and flow pipes. |
| US08147395B2 |
Bone-activity stimulation apparatus and method
A method of increasing bone mass throughout the body of a user. The method may include the steps of obtaining a distributor comprising a plurality of electromagnetic coils, obtaining a controller comprising a processor and a memory device, operably connected to one another, the memory device storing code executable by the processor, selecting a source of electrical current, connecting the source to the controller, and positioning a user proximate the distributor. The method may further include controlling, by the controller in accordance with the code, delivery of electrical current sequentially and exclusively to each coil of the plurality of electromagnetic coils to generate a magnetic field extending into the user. |
| US08147391B1 |
Exercise bar
An exercise bar for motocross muscle development. One embodiment has a bar and a special rocker member for use on floor exercises. A second embodiment has a spring-loaded pivot hub. That embodiment also has folding handgrips that make the device easy to story and carry. Both embodiments have handgrip eyes that can support the ends of the bar for a number of different exercises. Both embodiments have an eye that can support the handlebar as well. A sliding hook can be used to can carry weights and can act as a support when the device is used on a floor. The rocker member is an important feature that allows a user to do intensive push-up type exercises using the bar. |
| US08147389B1 |
Adjustable weight-loaded dip-chin machine
An adjustable weight-loaded dip-chin machine. Dip bars and chin bars with means for vertical adjustment are mounted on columns, which in turn are mounted on a base. An arm is pivotally attached to the base, and weights can be added to an arm spindle attached to the arm. A belt is attached to the arm, and the weighted arm spindle resist upward exerciser motion when performing dips or chins. A pivot hook releasably engages the arm spindle in an elevated position for convenience and safety when commencing and ending a squat exercise series. Means are disclosed for adjusting the height of the pivot hook on a column, and for automatically disengaging the pivot hook from the arm spindle when exercise commences. A squat platform is sized to fit between foot platforms, which together form a stable standing area for the exerciser. Squat handles are height-adjustably mounted to the columns. |
| US08147388B2 |
Bike trainer
A bike trainer operable by a user for stationary riding when a conventional bicycle is coupled thereto. The bike trainer may be used by removing the rear wheel of the bicycle and selectively coupling the rear dropouts of the bicycle to an axle of the bike trainer. The bike trainer is operative to simulate the “feel” of riding a moving bicycle by providing resistance and inertia similar to that of a bicycle when used normally. To provide these features, the bike trainer includes a fan/flywheel as well as a freewheel mechanism. The bike trainer also includes features that permit simple coupling and decoupling to the bicycle using a “quick release skewer,” which allows users to easily use the bike trainer without required a substantial amount of time. The bike trainer also includes a base configured to support a user of the bike trainer in a fashion such that the user is sturdily supported during use. |
| US08147387B2 |
Muscle exercise devices and associated methods
A muscle exercise device can include a crank having an axis of rotation. A first arm can be connected to the crank so that a downward external force applied to the distal end of the first arm causes rotation of the crank. The devices of the present invention can further include a second arm to which a counterweight is connected. Optionally, an assist mechanism other than a counterweight can be used to provide upward movement of the first arm with minimal application of force by a subject. A retrofit kit can be provided for modifying an existing device such as an ergometer or road bicycle. The retrofit kit can include a counterweight and a fastener for attaching to the device to the existing device. The devices of the present invention allow for increased exercise capacity, isolation of muscle groups, and biomechanical forces which closely approximate comparable paired limb motion. |
| US08147386B2 |
Integral treadmill resistance training apparatus
An integral treadmill resistance training apparatus includes a treadmill having a treadway; left and right support columns, each support column including a base portion connected to the treadmill and an upper portion extending upward from the base portion; first and second translation members, each of the first and second translation members rotatingly connected to the left and right support column upper portions, respectively, at a translation axis, each of the translation members including one or more resistance strap connection points radially distal from the translation axis; first and second articulated handles connected to the first and second translation members, respectively; first and second handle locking mechanisms engageable with the first and second translation members and the first and second handles, respectively; and, one or more resistance straps removably connectable between each of the first and second translation members and the left and right support columns, respectively. |
| US08147377B2 |
Control strategy for multi-mode vehicle propulsion system
A method for controlling a vehicle operation in the transmission lash region. One method includes transitioning a combustion mode of a cylinder, and varying a timing of said transition responsive to whether the transmission is operating within the lash region of the transmission. |
| US08147374B2 |
Method of controlling hybrid vehicle
A method of controlling a hybrid vehicle including an automatic transmission and a motor generator comprises a pre-gearshift control, a mid-gearshift control, and a post-gearshift control. It is possible to prevent abnormal operations and damage of an automatic transmission due to reverse rotation of the input shaft of the automatic transmission and achieve smooth and stable pre-stop gearshift, by appropriately controlling reverse torque exerted in the input shaft of the automatic transmission, when a vehicle equipped with a hybrid driving apparatus including the automatic transmission performs the pre-stop gearshift. |
| US08147373B2 |
Control of a dry, dual-clutch transmission during an engine restart of a hybrid electric vehicle
A method for controlling an engine restart in a hybrid electric powertrain, including the steps of stopping the engine, using an electric power source and an electro-mechanical actuator connected to the source to engage a gear and stroke to zero torque capacity a dry clutch of a dual-clutch transmission, initiating an automatic engine restart, and increasing the torque capacity of the clutch to a desired torque capacity during the engine restart. |
| US08147368B2 |
Seat adjustment device for a vehicle seat
A seat adjustment device for a vehicle seat includes a driving motor that is in engagement with a driving part of a self-locking free wheel. An output part of the free wheel is connected to a gearing. To obtain a compact structure, the driving motor, the free wheel and the gearing are located in a common housing, which preferably has a housing base part and at least one housing covering. |
| US08147366B2 |
Power output apparatus and vehicle
The hybrid vehicle includes the engine capable of outputting power to the drive gear; the motors MG1 and MG2; the CVT; the planetary gear mechanism having the sun gear connected to the secondary shaft of the CVT, the ring gear capable of rotating in the direction opposite to the rotational direction of drive gear in conjunction with the drive gear, and the carrier connected the carrier shaft as the drive shaft; the clutch C1 that performs a connection and releases the connection between the primary shaft of the CVT and the motor MG1; the clutch C2 that performs a connection and releases the connection between the motor MG1 and the drive gear; and the brake B1 capable of non-rotatably fixing the sun gear of the planetary gear mechanism. |
| US08147362B2 |
Arrowhead having blades offset rearward from the tip
An archery arrowhead having a tip and a body with blade slots that each accept a blade. Each blade having a leading edge and an opposite trailing edge. The leading edge formed by a first cutting surface and a second cutting surface that diverge from each other in a rearward direction from the leading edge to the trailing edge. The first cutting surface and the second cutting surface forming a point, the point offset from a rearward edge of the tip. |
| US08147359B2 |
Shuttlecock
A shuttlecock preferably includes a tail, a shuttle housing and an impact head. The tail includes at least three tail sections which are attached to each other and retained by a tail base. The shuttle housing preferably includes a first housing half, a second housing half and an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit preferably includes a circuit board, an vibration sensor, at least one light emitting device and a sound emitting device. The circuit board includes an electrical controller and a battery. The vibration sensor detects that the shuttlecock is in motion and sends an electrical signal to the electrical controller, which activates the at least one light emitting device and/or the sound emitting device, until the shuttlecock is no longer in motion. The impact head preferably includes a plurality head discs, a plurality of buffer discs and a disc strap. |
| US08147355B2 |
Rocket tee, a baseball or softball hitters training system for the purpose of batting practice
The present invention and method is a training system for baseball and softball batters containing but not limited to a manually operated mobile batting tee and an illustrated board on which the tee is maneuvered. The operator is positioned at the opposite end of the board from home plate. The device is operated by placing a ball on the bristled head and using the adjustable handle to push the mobile tee to marked locations where the ball is then hit by the batter. After the ball is struck the operator pulls the tee back to it's original location where another ball is loaded and the cycle is repeated. Ball elevation is adjusted by releasing the tension device and moving the stem up or down. For young players the device with ball can be placed in front of home plate and pulled rearward to simulate a pitched ball. |
| US08147351B2 |
Interchangeable 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. |
| US08147350B2 |
Golf club
A golf club comprises a shaft, a club head, and a connection assembly that allows the shaft to be easily disconnected from the club head. In particular embodiments, the connection assembly includes a removable hosel sleeve that allows a shaft to be supported a desired predetermined orientation relative to the club head. In this manner, the shaft loft and/or lie angle of the club can be adjusted without resorting to traditional bending of the shaft. In another embodiment, the club head has an adjustable sole that can be adjusted upwardly and downwardly relative to the strike face of the club head, which is effective to adjust the face angle of the club head. |
| US08147349B2 |
Orientation marker for golf club having releasable and interchangeable head and shaft connections
A golf club may have an orientation marker located on the golf club that indicates at least a relative orientation between the golf club head and shaft. The orientation marker may be located, for example, on the golf club head or shaft. A key member provides additional information with respect to the relative orientation between the golf club head and the shaft. The key member may be located, for example, on the golf club head, shaft, or grip portion, or on a head cover for the golf club head. |
| US08147348B2 |
Semi-automatically adjustable length and torque resistant golf shaft
An adjustable golf shaft having an upper shaft member and a lower shaft member. The upper shaft member has an elongated bore therein and the lower shaft member has a cylinder and a rod having one end fixed to a proximal end of the cylinder. A fixed bushing is positioned within the elongated bore of the upper shaft member and has an elongated bore extending therethrough. The rod is slidably mounted through the elongated bore of the bushing. The frictional force between the rod and the bushing prevents the rod from sliding relative to the bushing when the user of the golf swings the golf shaft. |
| US08147346B2 |
System for improved golf flag stick stability and reduced golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear
The subject matter described herein includes a system for improved golf flag stick stability and reduced golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear. The system includes a ferrule locatable on an end of a golf flag stick that is inserted in a golf cup. The ferrule has a top portion, a bottom portion, and a sidewall located between the top portion and the bottom portion, where the sidewall tapers inward at an angle selected from the range of 5 degrees to 30 degrees from the top portion to the bottom portion. The system further includes a golf cup having a central aperture for receiving the flag stick. The central aperture is defined by a sidewall that is tapered inward at an angle corresponding to an angle of the ferrule. |
| US08147345B2 |
Baby seat sling for suspending a baby seat from a structure
A baby seat sling suspends a baby seat from a structure. A lower strap harness extends around the rear surface of the baby seat. A lower strap suspension point extends above the seating surface of the baby seat. The lower strap suspension point comprises a junction of ends of the lower strap harness. An upper strap suspension strap is attached to the lower strap suspension point and to the structure located above the baby seat. |
| US08147340B2 |
Methods and regulated gaming machines configured for service oriented smart display buttons
A regulated gaming system includes a plurality of computer nodes communicating over a network. At least one of the computer nodes includes a gaming machine, which may include a game controller and an interactivity apparatus to accept wagers from a player and to provide random outcomes while playing a game. The interactivity apparatus may include one or more video displays; a menu of available player-selectable games and one or more option buttons, the function of which changes depending upon which of the player-selectable games is selected by the player. A non-video display is associated with each option button, and is configured to indicate the status and/or the function thereof. The gaming machine includes a non-video services subscriber configured to receive, over the network, selected non-video display services to which the non-video services subscriber has subscribed from a non-video display services provider executing in one or more of the computer nodes. |
| US08147338B2 |
Gaming network
A gaming network is disclosed which includes point to point cabling infrastructure connectable to at least one first gaming machine and connectable to at least one second gaming machine. Each first gaming machine is arranged to communicate using a master/slave protocol, and each second gaming machine is arranged to communicate using a point to point protocol. The gaming network also includes an interface device having a communications bus connectable to a master/slave control device and to the point to point cabling infrastructure such that each first gaming machine is connected to the communications bus and is controllable by the master/slave control device through the point to point cabling infrastructure. The point to point cabling infrastructure is also connectable to a point to point control device such that at least one second gaming machine is controllable by the point to point control device through the point to point cabling infrastructure. |
| US08147328B2 |
Apparatuses, methods and systems for game mechanics for gifting
The APPARATUSES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR GAME MECHANICS FOR GIFTING (“GGM”) transform social graph, interactions, behavior and characteristics data inputs via various GGM components to create optimal gift-giving dynamics. In one embodiment, the GGM may receive a request to provide a gaming resource to a user. In response to the request, the GGM may aggregate and analyze interaction data to identify a provider with prior interactions with the user. The GGM may in turn request the provider for a gaming resource. The GGM may receive may receive an indication to provide a gaming resource to the user in response to the request and may facilitate providing of a gaming resource to the user. The GGM may identify this indication as an instance of interaction and may update the user interaction data accordingly. |
| US08147323B2 |
Gaming machine with visual and audio indicia changed over time
A gaming machine having features for increasing player appeal is set forth. The machine generally includes a processor, a display, and a memory device. The processor randomly selects one of a plurality of outcomes of the gaming machine in response to a wager. The display displays visual elements to be viewed by the player. The memory device is coupled to the processor and stores at least two data sets for producing at least two different types of visual and/or audio elements in the basic game or bonus game, or at least two different types of bonus game formats. The processor selects one of the two data sets in response to the occurrence of a predetermined time, a number of wager inputs by players of the gaming machine, or after determining a favorite play content based on the number of wager inputs by players. |
| US08147321B2 |
Method and apparatus for electronic random prize distribution with fixed prize inventory and unknown participant count
A probability of winning at least one of a plurality of prizes for a contest is dynamically adjusted, given a fixed prize inventory and an a priori unknown number of participants. A variable probability is determined by approximately dividing a current number of participants in the contest by a current number of prizes awarded. The variable probability is dynamically adjusted based on a variable probability multiplier, that is obtained by dividing a current number of winners in a predefined time interval by a remaining number of prizes in the predefined time interval. A prize can be awarded based on the adjusted variable probability. |
| US08147320B2 |
Adjustment of awards in progressive system based on wager
A gaming system for conducting a wagering game includes a progressive jackpot awarded in response to a jackpot win event. The gaming system includes a first gaming machine linked to the progressive jackpot, the first gaming machine accepting a first wager. The gaming system further includes a second gaming machine linked to the progressive jackpot, the second gaming machine accepting a second wager that is greater than the first wager. A first player making the first wager at the first gaming machine is awarded the progressive jackpot if the jackpot win event is associated with the first gaming machine. A second player making the second wager at the second gaming machine is awarded the progressive jackpot plus an expected value equalizing award if the jackpot win event is associated with the second gaming machine. |
| US08147312B2 |
System and method for playing an interactive game with the prospect of winning a progressive jackpot prize award
A method and system for playing an interactive game includes inputting into a host computer an access code, wherein the access code is operatively associated with game data storing a predetermined outcome of a game play, transmitting from the host computer a game play for play by a player on a terminal device in response to the inputted access code, and increasing the amount of a progressive jackpot in response to the occurrence of at least one game playing event. |
| US08147310B2 |
Gaming device having multiplier poker game
A video poker gaming device, a method of operating a gaming device and a method of playing a poker game including a plurality of cards displayed to a player where the cards are drawn from a deck of fifty-two cards including at least one modifier card. The gaming device deals a first draw of the cards to form a player's hand. Any multiplier cards in the player's hand are replaced by a non-multiplier card. The gaming device enables the player to hold any of the cards in the hand and then determines if any winning card combinations are indicated by the non-multiplier cards in the hand. An award associated with any indicated winning card combinations is provided to the player. The award is multiplied by the multipliers associated with any multiplier cards in the player's hand. |
| US08147305B2 |
Attacking a virtual enemy by corresponding input to output sound
A game apparatus includes a CPU, and the CPU executes a game process. When a player character encounters an enemy character in a game world, a battle screen is displayed on a monitor. On the battle screen, an input pattern is displayed, and background music (BGM) is output from a speaker. A player determines an operation timing based on the input pattern and the BGM (drum part). If there is a high level of coincidence between the operation timing by the player and a timing of the music pattern, damage which the player character applies to the enemy character and experienced obtained by the player character increases. |
| US08147304B2 |
Storage medium having game program stored thereon and game apparatus
The game apparatus shoots a moving object from a predetermined weapon object and moves the moving object in a three-dimensional space in a case where an input from an input device is received. At least one of the size, the shape, and the number of a contact determination area defined for the moving object is changed in accordance with a distance over which the moving object moves in the three-dimensional space. The game apparatus determines whether or not the contact determination area defined for the moving object contacts a contact determination area defined for a target object. A predetermined game process is performed when the determination result of a contact determination step is positive. |
| US08147299B2 |
Meat sortation
A system and method for sorting animal protein includes determining a desired characteristic of a cut of meat from an animal portion and associating the desired characteristic with an attribute of the animal portion. The attribute is ascertained and the animal portion is sorted based on the ascertained attribute. Like animal portions are grouped together for further processing as a group. |
| US08147290B2 |
Game call striker shaping retainer
A means of directly attaching one or more strikers of a slate type turkey call to that call. The attachment keeps the strikers and call as a unit for ready access and eliminates one rattling against the other when the call is not in use. The attachment is accomplished by diametral engagement of the strikers by an extension of the call body. The extension is an integral part of the call body or added as an accessary to an existing slate turkey call. Providing accurate diametral location, the invention is also used, with abrasive material, to effectively shape or resurface the sound producing end of the striker. |
| US08147289B1 |
Toy helicopter having guards for preventing contact of the vertical lift rotors
A toy helicopter assembly having a guard that prevents the vertical lift rotors of the toy helicopter from inadvertently contacting any object while spinning. The toy helicopter has a body that includes a fuselage and landing gear. A drive shaft extends upwardly from the fuselage. A least one rotor is connected to the driveshaft. Each rotor is rotated by the driveshaft in a circular path through a predetermined plane of rotation. A plurality of loop structures are attached to the toy helicopter. The loop structures extend along curved paths, therein creating a guarded area within the curved paths. The loop structures are oriented so that at least part of the circular path that is traversed by the rotors extends through the guarded area. |
| US08147288B2 |
Method for aligning film sheets and rectangular panels in display panel manufacturing system
A method for aligning film sheets and rectangular panels in a continuous manufacturing system of display panels, each of the film sheets being formed between two longitudinally adjacent slit lines, one on an upstream side and the other on a downstream side, and extending in a transverse direction with respect to a feeding direction of a strip shaped film laminate, such that the rectangular panels conveyed to the lamination position are overlapped with the film sheets conveyed to the lamination position. The method includes steps of; angularly adjusting the rectangular panel conveyed to the lamination position such that a center line extending in the feeding direction of the rectangular panels is parallel to the center line extending in the feeding direction of the film sheets conveyed to the lamination position; and position adjusting the angularly adjusted rectangular panels by shifting for a displacement from a position of the film sheets conveyed to the lamination position. |
| US08147287B2 |
Organic EL element and a method for manufacturing the organic EL element
A dense cathode electrode layer having a step coverage is to be formed on an electron injection layer. The electron injection layer in which fine particles of an electron injection material is dispersed in an organic thin film having an electron transport property is formed by vapor co-depositing the electron transport material and the electron injection material; and a cathode electrode layer made of an alloy layer of MgAg is formed by a sputtering method. Since lower portions of the fine particles of the electron injection material dispersed in the surface of the organic thin film are buried in the organic thin film, the electron injection particles are not peeled off even if sputtering particles collide with the electron injection particles, and the upper portions are in contact with the cathode electrode layer formed by sputtering particles. |
| US08147284B2 |
Submersible propulsor unit
A submersible propulsor unit, comprising: a duct defined between a duct hub and a duct wall, the duct having a water inlet and a water outlet, a propeller means rotatably mounted within the duct, and an array of stator vanes extending between the duct hub and the duct wall, wherein the array of stator vanes comprises stator vanes having a first stiffness and stator vanes having a second stiffness. |
| US08147276B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an insulating body having a base portion and a tongue portion extending forward from the base portion, a plurality of terminals disposed in two opposite surfaces of the tongue portion and each having a soldering tail which stretches behind the base portion and further projects upward beyond a top of the base portion, and a lid having a positioning body and a fastening portion protruding forward from the positioning body. The positioning body defines a plurality of positioning apertures spaced from one another and each extending vertically to penetrate through the positioning body. The fastening portion is mounted to the top of the base portion to make the positioning body locate behind the base portion. The soldering tails are inserted in the positioning apertures to be positioned and strengthened by the positioning body, with free ends thereof projecting beyond a top of the positioning body. |
| US08147275B1 |
Interface adapters for implantable medical electrical leads having a sidewall with an opening with a canted edge
An interface adapter for an implantable medical electrical lead facilitates temporary electrical connection between an external medical device and a connector terminal of the lead. A sidewall of the adapter surrounds a receptacle of the adapter and includes a contact opening formed therethrough, to the receptacle; the sidewall further includes at least one external feature that holds a connector member of the external medical device in a tilted orientation. The tilted orientation biases a contact surface of the connector member through the contact opening and into electrical contact with an exposed connector contact of the lead connector terminal, when the terminal is inserted within the receptacle of the adapter. |
| US08147274B2 |
Connector
A connector to be connected to a counterpart connector includes a circuit board having a ground layer, an insulating layer, and a first conductive layer successively stacked, the first conductive layer including a signal circuit and a ground circuit; and a second conductive layer electrically connecting the ground circuit and the ground layer, the second conductive layer being provided on a side of the counterpart connector in the ground circuit. |
| US08147272B2 |
Header connector assembly
A header connector assembly includes an outer housing, an inner housing, a shield subassembly, and a seal body. The outer housing is disposed in an opening of a panel and includes a cavity. The inner housing includes a channel and is disposed in the opening of the panel. The inner housing is received in the cavity of the outer housing and includes a channel configured to have a contact disposed therein. The shield subassembly is disposed between the outer housing and the inner housing. The shield subassembly engages the panel to electrically couple the shield subassembly with the panel. The seal body is disposed between the panel and at least one of the outer housing and the inner housing. The seal body restricts passage of contaminants between the panel and at least one of the outer housing and the inner housing. |
| US08147271B2 |
Electronic connection device
An electronic connection device for electrically connecting two electronic devices to each other includes a connection unit for electrically connecting the two electronic devices to each other and a receiving unit. The connection unit includes a data cable. The receiving unit includes a main body and a sleeve barrel. The sleeve barrel is detachably assembled to the main body and receives the main body therein. The data cable is coiled on the sleeve barrel when the sleeve barrel assembled to the main body and is coiled on the main body when the sleeve barrel is detached. |
| US08147270B1 |
Cord management method and sleeve for ends of Y-shaped cords
A sleeve for storing a Y-shaped cord without tangling and a method of managing a Y-shaped cord by grouping a plurality of the cord loose ends in the sleeve, each into a separate portion, forming a closed loop. The sleeve is triangular-shaped, having a conical sidewall with an open top end and an open bottom end. Inside the sleeve, the ends of the cord are separated by at least one fastener. The closed loop makes it less likely that the cord will tangle with other objects or with itself. If the cord does tangle when in the closed loop, the topology of the closed loop makes untangling the cord simpler and quicker than if the ends were loose. When using the Y-cord, the sleeve remains on the cord, not interfering with the cord functioning and not easily lost. |
| US08147265B2 |
Card edge connector and latch thereof
This invention relates to a card edge connector and a latch thereof. The connector is used to receive a printed circuit card and includes a housing having two opposite ends, a card slot disposed between two opposite ends. The housing has a first width. The latch as a latch body portion, pivotally mounted on two ends of the housing for ejecting the card, and at least one through hole and a second width. The latch further has a latch head portion, extending from the body portion for latching the card, having at least one through hole and a third width. The second and third widths are substantially the same, and are smaller than the first width of the housing for improving heat dissipation. |
| US08147263B2 |
Mobile terminal device
A mobile terminal device includes a movable side housing, a fixed side housing connected to the movable side housing with a hinge part and a thin-wire cable as an electrical current flow passage electrically connected between the movable side housing and the fixed side housing. A cable mount cover member protects the thin-wire coaxial cable. The thin-wire coaxial cable has a cable main body having plural thin wires embedded therein and a cable connector connected to the cable main body, and the cable mount cover has a cable enclosure member enclosing the cable main body and a connector enclosure member enclosing surrounding of the cable connector. |
| US08147261B2 |
Connector
A connector assembly has a male connector (10) with a receptacle (14), a female connector (60) to be fit into the receptacle (14) and a moving plate (40) for positioning male terminal fittings (20). The moving plate (40) includes a plate-like plate main body (42) with positioning holes 47 and is movable toward a back side of the receptacle (14) together with the female connector (60) from an initial position where leading ends of the male terminal fittings (20) project through the positioning holes (47). Protection walls (41) project forward to protect the leading ends of the male terminal fittings (20) projecting at the initial position. The female connector (60) is formed with recesses (66) for permitting the protection walls (41) to escape. Each protection wall (41) is arranged between adjacent male terminal fitting groups (20). |
| US08147260B2 |
Power outlet socket safety shield device
A power outlet socket safety shield device comprises a left slider comprising a left transverse baffle and a left inclined stopper. A right slider comprises a right transverse baffle and a right inclined stopper. At least one elastic element is positioned between the left slider and the right slider. The left inclined stopper is inclined in a direction opposite to the inclination of the right inclined stopper. When the device is in a rest state, the left inclined stopper is above the right transverse baffle and the right inclined stopper is above the left transverse baffle. When the device is in an active state, the elastic element is compressed, the left slider and the right slider are moved in opposite directions to displace the left inclined stopper away from the right transverse baffle and to displace the right inclined stopper away from the left transverse baffle. |
| US08147257B2 |
Apparatus for mounting electrical and mechanical components on a support body
An electrical, electronic, fiber-optic, hydraulic, or pneumatic component is mounted upon a rectangular support body having an upper surface containing at least one linear groove, wherein a first connector is mounted in protectively concealed relation adjacent a given vertical side wall of the groove beneath an overhanging portion of the support body that extends partially into the groove, and a second connector extends downwardly from the component into the groove when the component is seated on the top surface of the support body. When the component is mechanically or manually horizontally displaced laterally of the groove from its initial inserted position toward a connected position adjacent the given vertical wall, the second connector is brought into connection with the first connector. In the preferred embodiment, the first and second connectors are electrical devices connected with electrical or electronic circuits contained within the component. |
| US08147256B2 |
Electrical connector and terminal thereof
An electrical connector and a terminal are disclosed. The terminal, comprising: a base having an upper end and a lower end; a flexible arm extending upward from the upper end of the base; a retaining portion extending upward from the upper end of the base, wherein a first predetermined distance is between the flexible arm and the retaining portion; a pair of holding legs, each one comprising: a transition arm extending downward from the lower end of the base and a welding portion extending downward from the transition arm; wherein a second predetermined distance is between two transition arms, two welding portions are co-planner and inclined to the base. |
| US08147251B1 |
Computer-aided psychological diagnosis and treatment system
A psychological testing and treatment system according to the present disclosure employs a computer to provide objective, unbiased language, independent interaction with users to circumvent natural human psychological defenses and gather information about traumatic or troubling events of the user. A user's interaction with relevant icons permits the computer to gather data to permit diagnosis and treatment. At the same time, the system enables the extraction, archiving and measurement of this data from the user. Subsequent and consequent to this communication via the system, the disturbance in the user is ameliorated to a degree by virtue of the interaction. |
| US08147250B2 |
Cooccurrence and constructions
A method and system for performing automatic text analysis is described. A local ranking for one or more contexts with respect to a word and a global ranking for one or more contexts are generated. The rankings are based on the frequency with which the contexts appear in a corpus. A statistic may be generated using the local and global rankings, such as a log ratio rank statistic equal to the logarithm of the global rank divided by local rank, to measure the similarity of contexts with respect to words with which they combine. A source matrix of word to context values is then created. Singular value decomposition is used to create sub-matrices from the source matrix. Vectors from the sub-matrices corresponding to context(s) and/or word(s) are then selected to determine term-term or context-context similarity or term-context correspondence. |
| US08147249B2 |
Display mechanism illustrating fluid dynamics
A display mechanism for illustrating fluid dynamics includes a water basin having a base and a mass of water with a water surface within the basin. A waterwheel is supported within the basin. The waterwheel includes a plurality of pump tools equally spaced about the waterwheel and adapted to fill with water on one side of the waterwheel and to open on the other side of the waterwheel. Each of the pump tools includes three upwardly extending inner pipes. The plurality of pump tools are arranged to contact two outer pipes and are adapted to fill with water on one side of the water wheel. |
| US08147243B2 |
Orthodontic bracket with a pad
Bracket (1) with a pad (3) for affixing it to a tooth of a patient, with a bracket body (5) that has a slot (7) for receiving an orthodontic wire (9), and with a channel-like wire guide (11) which has wire guide surfaces (11F) for guiding the wire (9) and which is assigned a lateral insertion area (13) for insertion of the wire (9) into the wire guide (11), wherein the insertion area (13) has, in the longitudinal direction of the wire (9), a curved section (13A) through which the wire (9) can be inserted into the wire guide (11) in an elastically deformed state, such that the wire (9), on forming back to a rectilinear state, locks in the wire guide (11), and that the wire guide surfaces (11F) enclose the wire (9) in a circle shape, such that the wire (9) is held longitudinally displaceably in the wire guide (11) by the wire guide surfaces (11F) and is secured against escaping laterally from the wire guide (11). |
| US08147240B2 |
Thin chamber burner
A gas burner assembly includes a first sheet, a second sheet, and a conduit. The first sheet has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion, and a lower portion. The second sheet also has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion and a lower portion. The first and second sheets are secured relative to one another such that the first and second sheets are separated by a gap that defines a manifold between the inner faces of the first and second sheets with an elongate opening between the upper portions of the first and second sheets, the opening forming an outlet from the manifold. The conduit is in communication with the manifold, the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of gas. |
| US08147239B2 |
Method of controlling gas type clothes dryer
Disclosed herein is a method of controlling a gas type clothes dryer. The method control the dryer to continuously detect condition of a flame sensor even after ignition of the dryer, thereby preventing a drying operation from being performed when a flame has been extinguished due to insufficient gas supply caused by failure of a gas valve. |
| US08147237B2 |
Hot runner system having active material
According to an aspect, there is disclosed a hot runner system (100), comprising: a first surface (205) being elastically deformable; a second surface (210) forming, in cooperation with the first surface (205), a melt-leakage gap (215) being located between the first surface (205) and the second surface (210); and an active material (220) being: (i) coupled with the first surface (205), (ii) held normally stationary, (iii) configured to be operatively coupled with a signal source (225), and (iv) configured to elastically deform in response to receiving a signal from the signal source (225), upon elastic deformation of the active material (220), the first surface (205) becomes moved toward the second surface (210) such that a size (235) of the melt-leakage gap (215) becomes controlled. |
| US08147236B1 |
Reshaping tool for polymeric tubing
A reshaping tool incorporates a tool head and clamp for reshaping the cross section of a tube constructed from one or more polymer materials. The clamp holds the tube in place while the head portion of the tool, which is moveable with respect to the clamp, engages the tube for reshaping its profile cross section. |
| US08147235B2 |
Device and method for large area lithography
Apparatus and method for transferring a pattern from a template (10) having a structured surface to a substrate (12) carrying a surface layer of a radiation polymerisable fluid (14). The apparatus comprises a first main part (101) and a second main part (102) having opposing surfaces (104; 105), means for adjusting a spacing (115) between said main parts, support means (106) for supporting said template and substrate in mutual parallel engagement in said spacing with said structured surface facing said surface layer, a radiation source (110) devised to emit radiation into said spacing. A cavity (115) has a first wall comprising a flexible membrane (113) devised to engage said template or substrate, and means (114; 116) are provided for applying an adjustable overpressure to a medium present in said cavity, whereby an even distribution of force is obtained over the whole of the contact surface between the substrate and the template. |
| US08147232B2 |
Mold tool for the production of extrusion blow molded products
The invention concerns a mold tool for the production of extrusion blow molded products, comprising at least three mold portions (2a, 2b, 3) which define a mold cavity (4) and of which two are in the form of outer molds (2a, 2b) and one is in the form of a central mold (3). The outer molds (2a, 2b) and the central mold (3) are displaceable from and towards each other in the sense of an opening and closing movement of the tool. The central mold (3) is provided with component holders (11) which can be moved out of and into the tool plane defined by the central mold and are arranged in turn on a carrier (10) which is also displaceable with respect to the central mold (3). |
| US08147230B2 |
Scroll compressor having rearwardly directed fluid inlet and outlet
A scroll compressor includes a chamber formed in a casing and a compartment formed in a rearward end, a fixed scroll mounted within the casing and having a spiral scroll element extended from a base plate, and an orbiting scroll rotatably disposed in the casing, and having a spiral scroll element extended from a carrier plate and arranged to form a line contact between the spiral scroll elements, and the fixed scroll includes an inlet mouth and a fluid passage formed through the base plate, and the casing includes an inlet port and an outlet port formed in the rearward end for easily and quickly coupling to the tubings of the vehicle with pipings without bending or folding the pipings. |
| US08147227B1 |
Valve guide and spring retainer assemblies
Tapered valve guide and spring retainer assemblies are described for use in plunger pump housings that incorporate corresponding outwardly flared discharge and suction bores, as well as structural features for stress-relief. Plunger pumps so constructed are relatively resistant to fatigue failure because of stress reductions, and they may incorporate a variety of valve styles, including top and lower stem-guided valves and crow-foot-guided valves, in easily-maintained configurations. Besides forming a part of valve guide and spring retainer assemblies, side spacers may be shaped and dimensioned to improve volumetric efficiency of the pumps in which they are used. |
| US08147221B2 |
Electromagnetic micro-pump
An electromagnetic micro-pump includes a substrate, a top plate, a magnetic diaphragm, and a coil unit. The substrate includes a first face and a second face. The first face includes a groove. The top plate is mounted on the first face of the substrate. The top plate includes an input hole, an output hole, and a through-hole. Each of the input hole, the output hole, and the through-hole extends through the top plate and is in communication with the groove. The through-hole is between the input hole and the output hole. The magnetic diaphragm is elastically deformable and mounted to an outer face of the top plate to seal the through-hole. The coil unit is mounted to the second face of the substrate and aligned with the through-hole. |
| US08147220B2 |
Compressor having compression element welded to closed container at three or more welding points and suction tube neither parallel nor perpendicular to a straight line connecting any two of the welding points
A compressor includes a closed container and a compression element welded together at least three, preferably six, welding points. A suction tube for sucking refrigerant gas is attached to the closed container. A first direction and a second direction that are associated with a natural vibration mode of the suction tube do not coincide with a direction in which any two of the welding points are aligned. Accordingly, vibration of the suction tube can be reduced by arrangement of the welding points even if vibration of a motor is transmitted to the compression element. |
| US08147219B2 |
Motor direct driven compressor system
A motor direct driven compressor system includes a motor, a coupling and a compressor, and the coupling is coupled between the motor and the compressor, and a second assembling portion, a coupling portion and a metal plate of the coupling are used for connecting a driving shaft of the motor and a transmission shaft of the compressor. With this design, the driving force of the motor can be transmitted to the compressor and provided for the operation of the compressor. In addition, errors produced by the rotation and transmission during the transmission process can be minimized, so that the compressor can be operated accurately and normally. |
| US08147212B2 |
Wave driven air compressor
A vertical wave powered air compressor where different parts of the structure are at different depths (and hence static pressures). A plurality of compression stages are stacked one below the other. Each level has two or more chambers. The chambers have a series of check valves or water seals between them. Each passing wave raises and lowers the entire stack. As the stack moves downward, increased water pressure causes water to enter the first chambers at each level compressing the air inside. As the stack returns upward, the decreased water pressure causes water to leave the first chambers allowing the air therein to expand. However, the check valves prevent the air in the second chambers from expanding or escaping back into the first chambers. Another set of check valves allow the air in the second chambers, as it expands, to be forced downward into the next lower first chamber. With each upward and downward movement of the stack, as waves pass, a quantity of air moves downward from stage to stage until, at the bottom, the lowest stage discharges compressed air into a return pipe. |
| US08147207B2 |
Compressor blade having a ratio of leading edge sweep to leading edge dihedral in a range of 1:1 to 3:1 along the radially outer portion
An airfoil for use as rotor blades in compressors for turbomachines, such as gas turbine engines. The airfoil includes increased forward sweep and forward dihedral effective to reduce losses generated by interaction of tip clearance flow, secondary flows and passage shocks. |
| US08147206B2 |
Jet vane and method for manufacturing a jet vane
A jet vane for use in streams of hot gas, comprising a wing having a core area and a cover skin area surrounding the core area, is proposed. The cover skin area is made of a fiber-reinforced material, and the fibers in the cover skin area are oriented substantially parallel to the wing surface, and/or the cover skin area is made of a fiber-reinforced material that is reinforced with short fibers. |
| US08147198B2 |
Helicopter rotor yoke and method of making same
A rotor yoke includes a blade attachment portion, a mast attachment portion, and an intermediate portion extending between the blade attachment portion and the mast attachment portion. The intermediate portion, the blade attachment portion, and the mast attachment portion define an optional inner edge, such that the inner edge, if present, defines an opening. The rotor yoke further includes a peripheral, outer edge extending about the blade attachment portion, the intermediate portion, and the mast attachment portion. At least one of the outer edge and the inner edge, if present, includes a reduced thickness portion exhibiting a thickness that is less than a thickness of an adjacent portion of the rotor yoke. |
| US08147197B2 |
Turbine blade platform
A turbine blade assembly is provided. The turbine blade assembly comprises a turbine blade comprising a cavity, and a blade platform supporting the turbine blade, the cavity extending into the blade platform. The blade platform comprises an upper surface adjacent the turbine blade and a lower surface comprising a first rib, the cavity extending into the first rib, the first rib coupled to the lower surface, tapering as it extends away from the turbine blade, and comprising a first port extending from the cavity to the upper surface. |
| US08147196B2 |
Turbine airfoil with a compliant outer wall
A turbine airfoil usable in a turbine engine with a cooling system and a compliant dual wall configuration configured to enable thermal expansion between inner and outer layers while eliminating stress formation in the outer layer is disclosed. The compliant dual wall configuration may be formed a dual wall formed from inner and outer layers separated by a support structure. The outer layer may be a compliant layer configured such that the outer layer may thermally expand and thereby reduce the stress within the outer layer. The outer layer may be formed from a nonplanar surface configured to thermally expand. In another embodiment, the outer layer may be planar and include a plurality of slots enabling unrestricted thermal expansion in a direction aligned with the outer layer. |
| US08147195B2 |
Orientation device for water current power generating apparatus
A water current generating device is provided that consists of a main body and a horizontal axis rotor attached by a mechanical connection to a fixed support structure. Under the action of one or more hydrodynamic thrusters, the main body of the turbine is rotated about a desired axis of rotation to face the oncoming current flow. The mechanical connection incorporates an appropriate degree of freedom to allow this re-orientation to take place. |
| US08147193B2 |
Dropped ceiling fan housing
A modular ceiling fan housing unit designed to create a focused column or columns of downwardly moving air such that there is little deflection when the column or columns of downwardly moving air arrives at the ground level. The modular ceiling fan housing includes an elongated body element having a fluid impelling device to create the downwardly moving air. At least one plate disposed within the elongated body element directs the downwardly moving air into columns. The modular ceiling fan housing unit may be coupled to another modular ceiling fan housing unit to provide additional columns of downwardly moving air. The modular ceiling fan housing units may be coupled in various configurations, depending on the type of application. Furthermore, the modular ceiling fan housing unit or multiple modular fan housing units may be coupled to an elevated structure located either above or below the housing units. |
| US08147185B2 |
Systems, methods, and apparatus for controlling gas leakage in a turbine
Systems, methods and apparatus for controlling gas leakage in a turbine are provided. A plurality of seals may be provided in series, where each of the plurality of seals may be operable to reduce gas backflow from an inlet of a turbine component. Further, one or more channels may be provided that are operable to direct at least a portion of the gas backflow from respective points within the plurality of seals to corresponding points within a gas flow path of the turbine. The at least a portion of the gas backflow may be directed to the points within the gas flow path through the one or more channels. Additionally, the diameters of the plurality of seals may be optimized to at least partially balance the net thrust generated by the gas flow path of the turbine. |
| US08147182B2 |
Ceiling fan with concentric stationary tube and power-down features
A fan system comprises a hub, a plurality of fan blades, a drive system, and a stationary tube. The hub is configured to rotate. The fan blades are mounted to the hub. The drive system comprises a rotatable hollow output shaft. The hollow output shaft is in communication with the hub, such that the drive system is operable to rotate the hub via the hollow output shaft. The stationary tube is inserted through the hollow output shaft. The stationary tube is configured to remain stationary as the hollow output shaft rotates. Wires and the like may be passed through the stationary tube, to reach an accessory mounted at the bottom of the stationary tube. The fan system may also include a detector, such as a heat detector, a smoke detector, or an accelerometer. The detector may power down the fan system in response to detecting certain conditions. |
| US08147178B2 |
Centrifugal compressor forward thrust and turbine cooling apparatus
A gas turbine engine centrifugal compressor axial forward thrust apparatus bleeds impeller tip aft bleed flow from between an annular centrifugal compressor impeller of a high pressure rotor and a diffuser directly downstream of the impeller. The apparatus then uses the aft bleed flow to pressurize an annular cavity extending radially between an inner combustor casing and the rotor and extending axially between forward and aft thrust balance seals. Forward and aft thrust balance lands are in sealing engagement with the forward and aft thrust balance seals on the high pressure rotor respectively. An annular stator plenum in fluid communication with the annular cavity is bounded in part by a forward end wall having conical diffusion holes therethrough which may be axially or circumferentially or axially and circumferentially angled. The forward thrust balance seal may be on an aft conical arm of the impeller. |
| US08147177B2 |
Apparatus and method for economically forming layers of packing units
The invention provides an apparatus and a method for economically forming packing unit layers. The apparatus comprises at least one supply conveyor, at least one further conveyor and an exit conveyor. Furthermore, at least one gripper for positioning and/or turning the packing units is associated with the further conveyor. The positioned and/or turned packing units are brought together to form form-fitting packing unit layers by a suitable device on the at least one exit conveyor. The at least one gripper is configured in such a way that is can be used to position and/or turn at least one packing unit and that at least one further packing unit can be placed on the positioned and/or turned packing unit in the same orientation. |
| US08147172B2 |
Drilling jigs
Drilling jigs consisting of a first substantially rectilinear bar (2) having a plurality of through holes (4) through which holes can be drilled in a surface, and a plurality of locator members (6, 7, 8) which are rotatable relative to one or other of the surfaces of the bar (2) other than those through which holes are to be drilled, the jigs further including a second substantially rectilinear bar (17) with a plurality of through holes (17) through which holes can be drilled in a surface, and securing means (12, 13) for securing the first and second bars to each other, the holes in the first and second bars through which holes are drilled being substantially in alignment when they are secured together with the securing means. |
| US08147165B2 |
Artificial ground reef
An artificial ground reef has an attached implanting body to allow seaweed to readily attach and inhabit the artificial ground reef. The artificial ground reef has a main body having an upper member and lower member. Seawater flows in all directions through a plurality of through-holes on a lower part of the lower member. A detachment groove is formed on a plurality of locations of the upper face of the main body. An implanting body has a lower part detachably connected to the detachment groove. The implanting body is separated from the main body and connected detachably to the detachment groove of the main body when seaweed is attached and inhabiting the outer periphery. The main body and implanting body are porous concrete to aid with attachment and inhabitation of the seaweed. |
| US08147164B2 |
Road miller
A line system (24) for a road miller, which rotates along with the milling roller (11) and which supplies water directly to the nozzles (23) which are arranged on the lateral surface (18) of the milling roller (11), to be arranged in the milling roller (11). Owing to the line system (24), the milling roller (11) no longer needs to be filled with water. The nozzles (23) are instead supplied with water directly from the line system (24) in order to spray the milling region selectively. |
| US08147163B2 |
Tire rapid entanglement and arresting device
A method and apparatus for inhibiting the motion of a vehicle comprising a housing having a cavity, the cavity adapted to contain a net so that the net may be made available for release on command; tire engagement spikes supported by the housing, the spikes being movable to a first position to engage the tires of an oncoming vehicle, the spikes also being movable to a second position to avoid tire engagement, the spikes being positioned to grasp the net when in the first position; and an actuator for moving the spikes between the first and the second positions on command, wherein the spikes comprise at least two barbs adapted to penetrate a pneumatic tire, the spikes also having a hook for grasping a loop of the leading edge of the net. The method of the invention is a method of inhibiting the motion of a moving vehicle comprising the steps of providing a housing in the path of the vehicle, the housing being adapted to releasably contain a net having spikes arranged at a leading edge of the net; transmitting an electronic command manually to a motor that exposes the spikes to the moving vehicle; engaging the tires of the moving vehicle with the spikes by puncturing them; pulling the net from the housing by wrapping the net around the tires as the tires continue to move forward; and limiting continued forward motion by tightening the net around the axles thereby ultimately constraining the tires from further rotation. |
| US08147159B2 |
Writing instrument with rotatable handles
A hand-held instrument comprising a writing utensil and associated handles interconnected to each other to allow a user to selectively position the writing utensil in either an extended position of use or a closed position of storage, as well as a variety of positions there between. The writing utensil may take a variety of forms, and the handles may incorporate additional devices or tools. The rotation of the handles about the writing utensil allows a user to manipulate the handles in a variety of ways, similar to that of a “butterfly knife” or similar device comprising balisong style openings. In one aspect of the invention, the writing instrument may be used to perform moves or tricks as a novelty device to provide entertainment and enjoyment to a user. |
| US08147157B2 |
Recording apparatus
A cartridge, detachably attached to a recording apparatus, includes a recording sheet container. The recording apparatus includes a sheet turning device. When a recording sheet is conveyed from the cartridge to an image forming section, the sheet turning device turns the recording sheet around an axis parallel to a normal line to the recording surface of the recording sheet. The longitudinal direction of the recording sheets contained in the recording sheet container is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the recording sheet being subjected to recording in the image forming section. |
| US08147154B2 |
One-row keyboard and approximate typing
In one aspect, the present invention comprises an apparatus for character entry on an electronic device, comprising: a keyboard with one row of keys; and an electronic display device in communication with the keyboard; wherein one or more keys on the keyboard has a correspondence with a plurality of characters, and wherein the correspondence enables QWERTY-based typing. In another aspect, the invention comprises an apparatus for character entry on an electronic device, comprising: a keyboard with a plurality of keys; and an electronic display device in communication with the keyboard; wherein one or more keys on the keyboard has a correspondence with a plurality of characters, and wherein, for each of the one or more keys, the plurality of characters comprises: (a) a home row character associated with a particular finger when touch typing; and (b) a non-home-row character associated with the particular finger when touch typing. |
| US08147152B2 |
Image sensing apparatus and control method thereof
An image sensing apparatus comprises a shutter driving member which drives a shutter blade; a shutter spring which urges the shutter driving member; a shutter charge unit which charges the shutter spring, and is switched between an over-charged state and a travel prepared state; a driving unit which drives the shutter charge unit; a retaining unit which, when the shutter charge unit is set in the travel prepared state, retains the shutter driving member in a state in which the shutter spring is charged; a determination unit which determines whether or not the apparatus is executing a continuous shooting operation; and a controller which, when it is determined that the apparatus is executing the continuous shooting operation, controls to drive the shutter charge unit to the travel prepared state without stopping the shutter charge unit in the over-charged state after the charge operation of the shutter spring is complete. |
| US08147151B2 |
Shutter device
The shutter device includes a base, a post, a coil, a shutter, a first magnetic member, and a second magnetic member. The base defines a first aperture. The post is fixedly mounted on the base. The coil is connected to the post and rotatable around the post. The shutter blade is coupled to the post and jointly rotatable with the coil. The first and second magnetic members are mounted on the base arranged on two sides of the coil. The first and second magnetic members are configured for driving the coil to rotate, thereby moving the shutter blade to selectively expose or cover the first aperture. |
| US08147149B2 |
Barrier unit
The present invention provides a barrier unit, of which the blades can be opened fully.The barrier unit is designed to be attached to a camera in order to protect the lens of the camera and is ready to open or close as needed. The barrier unit includes: a base with a cylindrical portion; a first ring, which is arranged so as to rotate around the cylindrical portion; and first and second blades, which are interlocked with the first ring and which are gradually opened and closed as the first ring rotates. When one of the first and second blades is fully opened, the first ring is further movable to turn the other blade in a closing direction. |
| US08147148B2 |
Lens-interchangeable camera body and camera system capable of changing communication method with selected shooting mode
The present invention relates to a camera system.The system includes a selector configured to select one of a still image shooting mode and a movie shooting mode, and a communication unit employing a plurality of communication methods by which communication between an interchangeable lens and a camera body is performed. If the still image shooting mode is selected by the selector and a lens information request command is sent from the camera body to the interchangeable lens, the communication unit operates such that information on the interchangeable lens is sent from the interchangeable lens to the camera body. If the movie shooting mode is selected by the selector, the communication unit operates such that the information on the interchangeable lens is sent from the interchangeable lens to the camera body even without the lens information request command being sent from the camera body to the interchangeable lens. |
| US08147139B2 |
Dynamic biplane roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis
A medical imaging system comprising an x-ray image detector mounted on a robotic arm and an x-ray generator mounted opposite the x-ray image detector. The robotic arm includes two pivots and a plurality of telescoping segments to adjust the height and angle of the x-ray image detector. In some embodiments, the medical imaging system includes a second x-ray image detector and a second x-ray generator and is capable of capturing biplane stereophotogrammetric images. |
| US08147137B2 |
Pyrometry for substrate processing
A substrate processing system includes a processing chamber, a pedestal for supporting a substrate disposed within the processing chamber, and an optical pyrometry assembly coupled to the processing chamber to measure an emitted light originating substantially from a portion of the pedestal or substrate. The optical pyrometry assembly further includes a light receiver, and an optical detector. The optical pyrometry assembly receives a portion of the emitted light, and a temperature of the substrate is determined from an intensity of the portion of the emitted light near at least one wavelength. |
| US08147136B2 |
Micromechanical device with temperature stabilization and method for adjusting a defined temperature or a defined temperature course on a micromechanical device
A micromechanical device includes a micromechanical functional structure and an electromagnetic radiation heating associated with the micromechanical functional structure, which is formed to cause a spatially and temporally defined temperature or a spatially and temporally defined temperature course in the micromechanical functional structure. |
| US08147134B2 |
Method and apparatus for isotope identification and radioactivity measurement of alpha-emitting-radionuclides using a low temperature detector
Disclosed herein are a method and an apparatus to identify alpha-emitting radionuclides and to measure absolute alpha radioactivity using a low temperature detector. A 4π metallic absorber which encloses a radioactive material containing alpha-emitting radionuclides absorbs the total alpha decay energy in the form of thermal energy. The corresponding temperature changes are measured by a low temperature detector attached to the 4π absorber with high energy resolution. The identification of alpha-emitting radionuclides is declared by comparing the measured temperature signal with characteristic decay energy of radionuclides. The absolute amount of the radionuclides is determined by counting the number of the pulses for each of the identified nuclides. |
| US08147132B2 |
Freezing detection method for fuel cell
In a method for detecting the freezing of water within a fuel cell, precise detection can be performed using a phenomenon specific to the time when water starts to freeze to allow a reduction in erroneous activation. Detection at an early stage after the start of freezing is allowed, and hence measures can be taken against an output reduction before the water within the fuel cell completely freezes. |
| US08147131B2 |
Temperature sensing circuit and electronic device using same
A temperature sensing circuit that detects a given temperature includes a first differential input circuit and a second differential input circuit connected to the first differential input circuit. The first differential input circuit is configured to provide a first offset voltage with no temperature coefficient. The second differential input circuit is configured to provide a second offset voltage with a non-zero temperature coefficient. The given temperature is detected based on the first offset voltage and the second offset voltage. An electronic device using such a temperature sensing circuit is also disclosed. |
| US08147130B2 |
Heat flux measurement device for estimating fouling thickness
A heat flux measurement device includes at least two thermocouples disposed within a front portion of the device at different axial distances from a front wall of the device. A correlation between the measured heat fluxes from the device over a period of time is used to estimate a fouling thickness on a wall, for example, a water wall of a radiant syngas cooler (RSC). |
| US08147129B2 |
Apparatus for testing infrared sensors
An apparatus for use with automatic testing equipment for testing infrared sensors on integrated circuits is provided. The apparatus includes an infrared source, a heat mass, and an electronic frequency modulator. The infrared source is modulated according to a predetermined test frequency such that the infrared source emits an infrared test signal representative of a test temperature and corresponding to the temperature of the heat mass and the predetermined test frequency. A signal processor, electrically coupled to an integrated circuit having an infrared sensor, receives a sensed signal from the infrared sensor in response to the infrared test signal and uses the sensed signal according to the predetermined test frequency to determine a measured temperature. |
| US08147127B2 |
Fixation of a spiral spring in a watch movement
A method is disclosed for making an isochronous balance-wheel-and-spring assembly for a horological movement in which one spring out of a series of springs is paired with a balance wheel. The spring has characteristics that vary by comparison with other springs of the series, and the spring is designed to be mounted on the staff of the balance wheel via a collet. One collet out of a set of collets of different sizes is selected on the basis of the spring's characteristics. The collets of different sizes have connection points for attachment of the spring that are located (after assembly) at different distances from the center of the balance staff, the choice of the collet of the most appropriate size facilitating the adjustment of the balance-wheel-and-spring assembly. |
| US08147122B2 |
Dispensing and mixing tip for reactive componets
A tip (10) for mixing a plurality of components and for dispensing the mixture. The tip is particularly suited for use with a bulk supply of the components (11). The tip is further particularly suited for the mixing and dispensing of reactive materials. The tip (10) includes a housing (32) having a stator (31) positioned therein. The housing (32) includes a plurality of feeder channels (20, 21) that correspond to outlet channels of the bulk storage device. At least one of the feeder channels (20, 21) has a length dimension such that it extends into the outlet channel of the bulk storage device to prevent cross-contamination of the components held within the bulk storage device. |
| US08147121B2 |
Pre-mixing apparatus for a turbine engine
A pre-mixing apparatus for a turbine engine includes a main body having an inlet portion, an outlet portion and an exterior wall that collectively establish at least one fluid delivery plenum, and a plurality of fluid delivery tubes extending through at least a portion of the at least one fluid delivery plenum. Each of the plurality of fluid delivery tubes includes at least one fluid delivery opening fluidly connected to the at least one fluid delivery plenum. With this arrangement, a first fluid is selectively delivered to the at least one fluid delivery plenum, passed through the at least one fluid delivery opening and mixed with a second fluid flowing through the plurality of fluid delivery tubes prior to being combusted in a combustion chamber of a turbine engine. |
| US08147112B2 |
Backlight assembly and liquid crystal display having the same
A backlight assembly is suitable for emitting uniform flat light. The backlight assembly causes light from a lamp to travel in the form of flat light using a light guide plate disposed to have one plane facing the lamp. The light guide plate includes one or more rounded portions at one or more edges of an incident plane thereof onto which the light from the lamp is incident, and the one or more rounded portions cause the light from the lamp to travel into the light guide plate. |
| US08147108B2 |
Multi-level modular light bar
A modular light bar having crisscross lighting in the front and rear. Each module may include two horizontal layers of lighting supported on supports connected to a longitudinal base. A wire harness is positioned within a longitudinal channel in the longitudinal base, with the harness having one end connected to quick disconnects within the modules and having another end connected to a controller. Each of the light bar module is serviceable independent of the other light bar modules, such that the support positioned within and connected to the light bar module being serviced is removable from the light bar module without accessing the other light bar modules by disconnecting the quick disconnect positioned within each light bar module being serviced. |
| US08147099B2 |
Apparatus and method for receiving light from a point-like source and emitting light over an extended surface area
A method and apparatus are disclosed for receiving light from one or more light sources, each of which comprises a substantially point-like light source. The received light is them emitted over an extended surface area including a first surface of an optical controller arranged to refract light received from at least one light source, a second surface of the optical controller arranged to reflect the light received from the first surface of the optical controller, the first surface and the second surface being arranged with respect to each other to enable total internal reflection of the light reflected from the at least one light surface, and a plurality of reflection elements located within the optical controller arranged to alter the path of the light traversing the optical controller so as to direct light out of the optical controller. |
| US08147098B2 |
Electric reflector lamp
A reflector lamp (1) comprising a reflector (2) having an opening (6) opposite to a light emission window (7), an electric lamp (10) comprising a closed lamp vessel (11) positioned with an end portion (16) in the lamp opening of the reflector, an electric element (13) arranged on the optical axis (4) in the lamp vessel, and a support body (20). The support body comprises reflector fastening means (22) for fastening the support body to the reflector, and lamp fastening means (21) for fastening the support body to the end portion of the lamp vessel. Viewed in a direction from the lamp opening along the optical axis towards the light emission window, the support body is fastened to the reflector solely at a location beyond the lamp opening of the reflector. |
| US08147096B2 |
Lighting fixture zoom device, and lighting fixture comprising said zoom device
A zoom device for a lighting fixture has a first lens assembly of positive refractive power; a second lens assembly of negative refractive power; and a third lens assembly of positive refractive power.The first lens assembly, second lens assembly, and third lens assembly are aligned along a longitudinal axis coincident with the axis of a light beam emitted by a light source of the lighting fixture, and are characterized by respective focal lengths, which are such as to effectively adjust the size of the images projected by the lighting fixture, while at the same time maintaining compactness of the zoom device. |
| US08147095B2 |
Light source
A light source contains at least one light-emitting diode installed in the casing or on the base, and a lens system located along the light flux. The lens system comprises a plane-convex lens, a first plane-concave lens, and a composite lens 4 that are located along the light flux. The composite lens 4 is made up of a second and third plane-concave lenses. Flat surfaces of all of the lenses 4 are outflow faces for the light flux. Axes of symmetry of the second and third plane-concave lenses are normal to each other, whereas axes of symmetry of the first and second plane-concave lenses are parallel to each other. The first plane-concave lens is made movable along the light flux, and has a relocation drive therefor. A solenoid or an electric motor with a gear can be used as the drive. The technical result of the invention is believed to be the improvement of performance indicators, and the structure simplification. |
| US08147090B2 |
Flashlight
A flashlight in accordance with the present invention includes a chamber, end cap, head assembly and lamp holder assembly. The end cap includes a bowed tripod portion to facilitate standing the flashlight on a flat surface. The head assembly includes a reflector and a lens. In one embodiment of the invention, the head assembly includes an elliptical reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a elliptical reflector is matched with a negative or planar lens. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the head assembly includes an hyperbolic reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a hyperbolic reflector is matched with a positive or planar lens. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the flashlight includes electrode connections which prevent the conduction of electrical energy from batteries which are improperly aligned within the flashlight. In another embodiment, the lamp holder assembly includes a lamp socket having a lamp guide which provides a guide for installing lamp bulbs into the lamp socket and also provides a secure position for the lamp bulb. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight includes a lamp holder assembly which includes a notch capable of receiving and holding a spare lamp. In another embodiment, the lamp holder assembly further includes a fluorescent coating or additive which illuminates light in otherwise dark conditions, thereby facilitating lamp replacement in the less than desirable light conditions. |
| US08147080B2 |
Vehicle entertainment and communication system personal control unit with racetrack lighting design
A personal control unit (PCU) for a transportation-based entertainment system comprises a number of buttons. Illumination is provided for the buttons by illuminating a border region that is rounded containing some of the keys, and is provided for some of the buttons themselves. A light diffusion mechanism is provided between the illumination source and the illuminated regions related to the keys so that the illumination appears even across the entire PCU. A controller may adjust the illumination level and color of the illumination source. A system may be provided for matching at least one of color and brightness of the PCU lighting with cabin lighting. |
| US08147073B2 |
Image signal processing apparatus and virtual reality creating system
A virtual reality creating system including: a screen 1 including a projection plane of arbitrary shape; a distortion correction unit 3 which performs distortion correction for projecting image light onto the projection plane of arbitrary shape for a two-dimensional image signal to project image light onto a two-dimensional projection plane and then outputs the same; a parameter adjusting PC 5 which creates a distortion correction table as a correspondence map between the two-dimensional projection plane and a mesh model of the projection plane of arbitrary shape; and projectors 2a and 2b unit which project an image based on the image signal outputted from the image signal processing apparatus onto the screen. The distortion correction unit 3 receives the distortion correction table from the parameter adjusting PC 5 and performs distortion correction processing for each pixel of the two-dimensional image signal received by the image signal input unit with reference to the distortion correction table to generate the image signal to project the image light onto the projection plane of arbitrary shape. It is therefore possible to display images with reduced distortion of image light viewed by a viewer with a simple structure in real time. |
| US08147071B2 |
Processor for an apparatus, an apparatus and associated methods
Described herein is processor for providing image data signalling to a projector. The provided image data signalling represents an image to be projected by the projector. The processor comprises both an input to receive movement signalling associated with movement of the projector, and an output configured to provide image data signalling to the projector. The processor is also configured to provide image data signalling to the projector based on received movement signalling. |
| US08147069B2 |
Lighting device and projection image display unit
A lighting device, including a first light source emitting light of a first wavelength; a second light source close to the first source, emitting light of a second wavelength in almost a same direction as that of the first source; a third light source located emitting light of a third wavelength in a direction different from that of the first and second sources; a coupling optical system coupling light from the first and second sources; another coupling optical system coupling light from the third source; and a light path synthesizer synthesizing a light path of light from the first, second and third sources, wherein the light path synthesizer includes a first surface reflecting light from the first source and transmitting light from the second and third sources and a second surface unparallel with the first surface, reflecting light from the second source and transmitting light from the third source. |
| US08147068B2 |
Projection display apparatus
A projection display apparatus includes a light source, a plurality of light modulating elements that respectively modulate different color components of light emitted from the light source, a plurality of light diffusing elements that are disposed on sides near the light source with reference to the respective light modulating elements, a light integrating element that integrates the different color components modulated by the light modulating elements, and a projection optical element that projects light resulting from the different color components integrated by the light integrating element. |
| US08147065B2 |
Electronically controlled film transport methods and systems
Electronically controlled film transport methods and systems are described. One system described comprises a film transport path for transporting film, an input drive assembly for advancing film through the film transport path, an output drive assembly for advancing film out of the film transport path, an aperture positioned in the film transport path, at least one registration pin capable of engaging at least one perforation in the film to secure a portion of the film in the aperture, wherein the at least one registration pin is capable of retracting to a non-engaging position, and a controller for controlling the retraction of the at least one registration pin. |
| US08147063B2 |
Method for minimizing prism in over-the-counter eyeglasses and optical devices
The invention is directed to over the counter (OTC) eyeglasses with improved optical center distance (OCD) settings. The improved settings include a single best OCD setting by gender for the eyeglasses. Alternatively, plural pairs of eyeglasses, having different OCD settings are provided for purchase. |
| US08147058B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus includes a feed control unit configured to start feed of a next page before recording of a current page by a recording head is completed; an ejection wait time management unit configured to manage a time until the current page contacts a previous page which has been ejected by an ejection unit; and an ejection permission unit configured to permit ejection of the current page by the ejection unit after the time managed by the ejection wait time management unit becomes zero. The feed control unit does not start the feed of the next page until the ejection permission unit permits the ejection of the current page. |
| US08147052B2 |
Method of forming solid ink stick with coded mark
A method of manufacturing an ink stick provides the ink stick with a coded mark. The method includes forming an ink stick body of a phase change ink composition, and applying a marking composition to a surface of the ink stick body to form a coded mark on the surface of the ink stick body at the marking station, the marking composition being composed of the same phase change ink composition used to form the ink stick body. |
| US08147050B2 |
Liquid droplet jetting apparatus
A liquid droplet jetting apparatus is capable of carrying out selectively a first purge mode and a second purge mode. In the first purge mode, a first air discharge purge of discharging air in an ink storage chamber is carried out while maintaining a meniscus of the ink. In the second purge mode, a second air discharge purge of discharging air inside the ink storage chamber is carried out while destroying the meniscus of the ink. Accordingly, there is provided a liquid droplet jetting apparatus in which it is possible to discharge a gas inside a liquid supply channel from an upstream side of the nozzle, and also, when the degree of thickening of the liquid inside the nozzle is extreme, it is possible to discharge the thickened liquid assuredly from the nozzle. |
| US08147049B2 |
Waste phase change ink recycling
A method of recycling waste phase change ink includes collecting waste phase change ink in a container in a phase change ink imaging device. The waste phase change ink comprises melted phase change ink emitted by at least one print head in the phase change ink imaging device. The collected waste phase change ink is removed from the phase change ink imaging device, and at least a portion of the collected waste phase change ink removed from the imaging device is added to a quantity of melted phase change ink. |
| US08147048B2 |
Ink jet recording cartridge
A cartridge is constituted by a plurality of absorbing materials for retaining liquid, an interface formed by press-contact between opposing surfaces of the absorbing materials, an introducing portion for supplying the liquid out of the absorbing materials, and a filter provided at an end portion of the introducing portion. The absorbing materials press against the filter so that an end portion of the interface reaches the filter. |
| US08147042B2 |
Ink jet recorder and ink filling method
An ink jet recorder that includes line heads (4) having a plurality of nozzle heads (41), main tanks (13) placed outside of the line heads (4) to store ink; an ink supply passage (13a, 49a, 49c) that connects the main tanks (13) to the associated nozzle heads (41), and distribution tanks (6) placed in each line head (4). The number of supply tube connections (67) provided in the distribution tank (6) is smaller than that of the nozzle heads (41) arranged in the line head (4). |
| US08147038B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method
The image forming apparatus includes: a first group of large nozzles which eject large droplets of liquid for a color; a second group of small nozzles which eject small droplets of the liquid for the color, the small droplets having volume smaller than the large droplets; a dot data creation device which creates dot data according to input image data; a dot data correction device which corrects the dot data if there is an abnormal nozzle in one of the first and second groups, in such a manner that a corrective nozzle is selected from the other of the first and second groups, and droplet ejection performed by the corrective nozzle substitutes for droplet ejection that is originally to be performed by the abnormal nozzle; and a driving device which drives the large and small nozzles to eject the large and small droplets according to the corrected dot data. |
| US08147036B2 |
Polyfunctional epoxy compound, epoxy resin, cationic photopolymerizable epoxy resin composition, micro structured member, producing method therefor and liquid discharge head
A hyper branched type epoxy resin including a polymerized substance generated from a polyfunctional epoxy compound represented by a formula (I), wherein the polyfunctional epoxy compound represented by the formula (I) includes group A having aromatic hydroxyl group, a carboxyl group or aromatic ring having an amino group, and epoxy containing group B having an epoxy group; wherein R represents an organic group of (n+1) valence, and n represents 2 or 3. A-R—(B)n (I) |
| US08147034B2 |
Liquid discharge recording head and recording apparatus
A liquid discharge recording head includes a flow passage forming member having discharge ports and a flow passage, the discharge ports configured to discharge droplets, the flow passage communicating with the discharge ports. The flow passage forming member also has a first opening and a second opening, the first opening provided at a surface of the flow passage forming member with the discharge ports, the second opening causing the inside of the first opening to communicate with the outside of the flow passage forming member through a communication passage. |
| US08147031B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes: a plurality of recording heads each of which includes an ejection surface; a head frame; at least one annular protrusion; a support tray; and a moving device. One or more positioning pins are provided in an inner area of the support tray that is enclosed with the annular protrusion, the positioning pins extending in a direction perpendicular to a flat surface which includes a contact portion of the annular protrusion that is come into contact with the head frame, and the head frame has one or more positioning holes into which the positioning pins are insertable in the contact state of the annular protrusion. |
| US08147030B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus
A fluid ejecting apparatus includes an ejection head having an ejection surface with a nozzle region and a capping device that contacts the ejection surface. The capping device includes first and second contact members held by a cap body. When the first contact member contacts the ejection surface, a surface of the first contact member surrounds the nozzle region. The second contact member is formed in a closed frame-shape to be disposed outside a surface of the first contact member opposite the surface of the first contact member. The cap body includes first and second suction ports. The first suction port decompresses a first space formed between the first contact member and the ejection surface when the capping device contacts the ejection head. The second suction port decompresses a second space formed between the second contact member and the ejection surface when the capping device contacts the ejection head. |
| US08147029B2 |
Liquid ejection apparatus
A liquid ejection apparatus includes a heater controller and a purge controller. The heater controller controls a heater to heat liquid in at least a part of a liquid path of a head when an ambient temperature of the head is lower than a first predetermined temperature. The purge controller controls a pressurizer so that: the pressurizer is continuously driven until a predetermined amount of liquid is ejected from ejection openings, when the ambient temperature is not lower than the first predetermined temperature; and the pressurizer is intermittently driven plural times until the predetermined amount of liquid is ejected from the ejection openings, when the ambient temperature is lower than the first predetermined temperature, an amount of liquid ejected from the ejection openings in response to a single driving action of the pressurizer being not larger than an amount of liquid heated by the heater. |
| US08147027B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus and ink jet printing method
An ink jet printing apparatus and an ink jet printing method are provided which can perform ink ejection performance recovery operations on a print head at optimal timings while at the same time reducing a volume of ink discarded by the recovery operations. Thirty days after a previous recovery operation, a suction-based recovery operation is performed on the print head prior to the printing operation that forms an image on a print medium. The recovery operation is performed under the condition that a temperature increase of the print head caused by a preliminary ejection of the print head is not more than a predetermined value. |
| US08147026B2 |
Image quality matching in a mixed print engine assembly system
A method and system for improved image quality using an image quality matching method is used to match the optical density of single prints produced on multiple print engines by first sensing the optical density of a first image produced on a first print engine and then sensing the optical density of a second image produced on a second print engine before comparing the optical densities and determining if they are substantially equal. If they are not equal set points and exposures are adjusted on one or both print engines until the differences between the optical densities is less than 0.05, preferably 0.03. The density is changed by adjusting the initial voltage on the primary imaging member of at least one print engine and/or by adjusting the exposure of the primary imaging member of at least one print engine. |
| US08147023B2 |
Printing apparatus and printing method
A printing apparatus including: a first motor configured to provide a drive force for rotating a roll member that is a wound medium; a second motor configured to provide a drive force for driving a transporting drive roller provided on a downstream side of the roll member along a feeding direction of the medium for transporting the medium; and a control unit configured to drive at least one of the first motor and the second motor to cancel the slackness of the medium generated between the roll member and the transporting drive roller. |
| US08147021B2 |
Printer
When the number of sheets that have been printed has reached the number of sheets guaranteed for printing, a number representing a upper limit of the number of sheets that can be printed, an ink jet printer declines to perform printing with an ink cartridge for which the number of sheets guaranteed for printing has been set, but when the number of sheets printed has not reached the number of sheets guaranteed for printing, performs printing of an image onto a recording sheet S by using the ink cartridge, the ink jet printer determining the number of sheets remaining N on the basis of the number of sheets printed that have been printed, and displaying on a display unit 82 the number of sheets remaining information display screen 80 incorporating a number of sheets remaining display unit 80b that causes visual recognition of a relation between the number of sheets guaranteed for printing and the number of sheets remaining. |
| US08147020B2 |
Ink-jet recording method
An ink-jet recording method is provided. The ink-jet recording method includes (i) supplying an aqueous treatment liquid containing a fixing agent for fixing the components contained in an aqueous ink, on an art paper or a coat paper, in an amount of from −50% to +30% with respect to the value of ΔV [ml/m2] determined by the following formula (I), and (ii) recording an image by ejecting an aqueous ink containing a colorant, resin particles, an aqueous organic solvent and water, on the art paper or coat paper by an ink-jet method. In Formula (I), Vr represents a roughness index of the art paper or coat paper obtained from a measurement of liquid absorbability according to the Bristow method, and Vi represents an amount of transfer at the inflection point where the value of the absorption coefficient of the art paper or coat paper changes in the measurement of liquid absorbability according to the Bristow method. ΔV=Vi−Vr Formula (I) |
| US08147015B2 |
Hinge assembly and refrigerator having the same
An insertion-type hinge assembly may include a first hinge member including a mount unit and a shaft that is separated from and coupled to the mount unit, and that is positioned in parallel to the mount unit. The hinge assembly also includes a second hinge member that receives the shaft therein so as to rotatably couple the first and second hinge members. The first and second hinge members may be installed in corresponding recesses of a door and a main body such that they are not exposed. |
| US08147014B2 |
Refrigerating and/or freezing apparatus
A refrigerator and/or freezer is provided with a carcass and door, which by a bearing can be swiveled relative to the carcass of the appliance. The bearing includes a bearing block connected with the carcass of the appliance, a bearing bolt and an adjusting member, preferably an adjusting plate. The bearing block includes at least one recess or bore through which the bearing bolt extends and on whose edge portion the head of the bearing bolt rests. The adjusting member includes a bore with an internal thread and is arranged with the bearing block received between the head of the bearing bolt and adjusting member. The bearing bolt has an external thread which is in engagement with the internal thread of the adjusting member. The recess or bore of the bearing block is configured such that the adjusting member with the bearing bolt is movable relative to the bearing block when the bearing bolt is loosened. |
| US08147013B2 |
Refrigerator and rail assembly thereof
In a rail assembly structure according to an embodiment of the present invention, a shaking prevention member preventing the shaking of a storage container is provided at a position lower than a rail member so that the upper volume and the lower volume of the storage container received in the storage space of the refrigerator is increased as compared to the conventional refrigerator. |
| US08147009B1 |
Cabinet component system
The present invention is a component system for constructing the framework for cabinets of the type that are employed when building an outdoor kitchen. The components system consists of specially designed brackets used in conjunction with lightweight concrete side panels to construct the forms for the cabinets. The brackets have channels that attach to the corner edges of the concrete side panels and hold the side panels in place so that the top edges of the panels are accessible for attachment of back splashes and back bars. Brackets with more than one channel have support rods connecting their channels and holding them in spaced apart arrangement. Once the forms are constructed, their exterior surfaces can be finished in a variety of ways. The counter tops, wiring, plumbing, appliances and doors for the cabinets can then be installed to complete the cabinets and kitchen. |
| US08147006B2 |
Antiskid control—combined paired/individual wheel control logic
An anti-skid brake control system for a multi-wheeled vehicle includes both a paired function and an individual function. The paired function controls the wheels of the vehicle in unison. The individual function controls the wheels of the vehicle individually. A paired/individual logic circuit alternatively activates and deactivates the paired function and the individual function. A method for controlling the skid of a vehicle utilizing a paired function and a individual function is also provided. |
| US08147002B2 |
Bamboo chair and method of manufacturing the bamboo chair
The objective of the present invention is to provide a bamboo chair having a good load-carrying capacity and smooth shape and to provide a method of manufacturing the bamboo chair. The bamboo chair is sturdy, symmetrical and fashionable, has a center, a front, a rear and two sides and comprises multiple bamboo slats, a backrest, a seat, two legs and a base. The method of manufacturing a bamboo chair comprises steps of (A) preparing rough bamboo strips, (B) drying, (C) flattening, (D) finishing, (E) forming slat segments, (G) initial assembly, (I) interim assembly and (K) final assembly. |
| US08146995B2 |
Vehicle seat with a tumbling recliner
A vehicle seat is provided, particularly for a motor vehicle. The seat includes a seat part and a backrest. A fitting allows for adjusting inclination of the backrest relative to the seat part. The fitting has a lower part connected to the seat part and an upper part that can be locked to a backrest part. The backrest part is mounted in a freely swinging manner relative to the upper part and can be locked in a plurality of positions. The locking takes place in at least one position of the lower part, or on a mounting connected directly to the seat part. |
| US08146993B2 |
Rotatable seat assembly
A seat assembly supported for rotation and including a foot control supported below a seat base for rotation with a rotatable support member. The foot control illustratively includes a right control pedal configured to cause the actuator to drive the rotatable member in a clockwise rotation, and a left control pedal configured to cause the actuator to drive the rotatable member in a counterclockwise direction. |
| US08146992B2 |
Turret seat
An operator support assembly supported for rotation. The operator support assembly includes a seat bottom suspended below a rotatable member and a support coupling the seat bottom to the rotatable member. The support illustratively includes a shock absorbing device to dampen shock impulse between the rotatable member and the seat bottom. A quick release mechanism may be provided to cause the seat bottom to pivot downwardly about a pivot coupler. |
| US08146990B2 |
Mechanism for an office chair
A mechanism for an office chair having a backrest support which may be pivoted rearwardly. Adjustment of the backrest pivotal motion is accomplished by the mechanism having a base support which may be positioned on a chair column, a seat support, the backrest support which may be pivoted to the rear, and a pre-tensioned spring arrangement for enabling the mechanism to counter or oppose the movement of the backrest support. The seat support and the base support form a movable unit, which may be moved relative to the chair column depending on the weight of a user applying a load to the seat support. Movement of the movable unit causes an adjustment of the pre-tension of the spring arrangement and/or an adjustment of the spring constant of the spring arrangement. |
| US08146987B2 |
Fender liner structure
In a present fender liner structure of a vehicle, an intake port is positioned in an upper portion of a cavity that is defined by a fender, a fender apron and a fender liner, so that air in the cavity can be introduced into an engine. A fender liner body positioned to surround a tread portion of a front wheel has a plurality of drain openings that are circumferentially formed to be positioned anterior to a center of the front wheel. The drain openings respectively have opening portions that are directed upwardly so as to have larger opening areas in a vertical direction and smaller opening areas in a longitudinal direction, and have guard portions to which muddy water splashed upwardly and passing through the opening portions can impinge. |
| US08146986B2 |
Dashboard support, and method of making a dashboard support
A dashboard support for a motor vehicle includes a tubular cross member for installation between A-pillars of a vehicle body, and a holder joined to the cross member for attachment of functional vehicle components. The cross member has at least one slot, oriented in a direction transversely to a longitudinal axis of the cross member, for receiving a limb of the holder such as to allow adjustment of a position of the holder in relation to the cross member by sliding and/or turning the limb before the holder is being joined to the cross member. |
| US08146983B2 |
Folding roof arrangement
A folding roof arrangement has a folding top covering (12) and a folding top structure (14). The folding top structure (14) has at least one roof frame (20) with a front area and at least one elastically deformable tensioning element (31-34). The folding top structure (14) can be folded or collapsed with or without the folding top covering (12), so that the tensioning element (31-34) is elastically deformed when folded. |
| US08146981B2 |
Cable roll up tonneau
The present invention is directed to a tonneau cover incorporating a cable system which generates the proper amount of cross-car tension, and still provides for the tonneau cover to be rolled up and stowed when not in use. The present invention is directed to a tonneau cover for a vehicle that is moveable between a stowed position and a deployed position. The tonneau cover has at least one pocket extending along a side of the tonneau cover, and at least one cable disposed in the pocket such that a first end of the cable extends out of a first end of the pocket, and a second end of the cable extends out of a second end of the pocket such that when the tonneau cover is in the deployed position, the cable applies tension to the tonneau cover. |
| US08146980B2 |
Vehicle sunshade device
The present invention relates to a vehicle sunshade device 20, which can cover and uncover a rear window provided between a pair of rear pillars 11R and 11L formed in both sides in the vehicle width direction with a screen body 21, and comprising: a winding device 30 for biasing the screen body 21 in its winding-up direction; a pair of guide rails 40R and 40L in both sides in the vehicle width direction of the winding device 30, and capable of being attached to the inner wall of the rear pillar; a pair of sliders 50 fixed at both edges in the vehicle width direction of the screen body 21 respectively, and capable of reciprocately moving within the pair of guide rails 40R and 40L; a drive unit 60 for reciprocately moving the sliders 50 within the guide rails 40R and 40L so as to spread out the screen body 21 against the biasing force of the winding device 30 and wind up the screen body 21 in a spread-out state with the winding device; a temporary joint part 80 for temporarily connecting the pair of guide rails 40R and 40L with the winding device 30 in a condition, where a relative distance between each of the guide rails 40R and 40L is adjustable, until the present vehicle sunshade device 20 is attached to the pair of rear pillars 11R and 11L. |
| US08146978B2 |
Seat slide device for vehicle
A seat slide device for a vehicle includes a lower rail, an upper rail movable relative to the lower rail and a lock member for restricting the relative movement of the upper and lower rails. The restriction of the relative movement can be released and the lock-released position can be retained. The seat slide device further includes a memory piece detachably engaged with the lower rail and provided in a direction separating from the lower rail and engaging therewith when a seatback is reclined forward, wherein the memory piece is moved in association with the movement of the upper rail by retaining the memory piece at the receiving portion and the shaped portion when the memory piece is separated from the lower rail and wherein the memory piece is engaged with the lower rail at the engaging portion when the memory piece is engaged with the lower rail. |
| US08146971B2 |
Grapple attachment for use with drill pipes
A grapple attachment for use with a drill pipe having a diameter, that may include first and second gripping members disposed on a rigid lateral member tiltable up to 40 degrees from the horizontal and preferably continuously rotatable, wherein each of the first and second gripping members has a first and second claw and a bracket having a concave contact surface, each claw having a concave gripping surface, wherein the surface of the bracket and the gripping surfaces of the first and second claws come in contact with the drill pipe when the gripping member is in the closed position. |
| US08146970B2 |
Recovery net
A recovery net has a net, a connecting rope, a floating unit, a ballast and two pulling ropes. The net has an upper edge, a lower edge and a surface. The connecting rope and the floating unit are mounted on the upper edge of the net. The ballast and the pulling ropes are mounted on the lower edge of the net. The floating unit provides buoyancy, the ballast provides sinking force so the net can float on water and the surface of the net is vertical. Recoverers align the net near a corpse and then pull the pulling ropes to recover the corpse in its entirety so recovery work is more efficient. |
| US08146963B2 |
Releasable mounting of an accessory on an operating table
What is described is a device for releasable mounting an accessory (12) on an operating table (102), comprising two coupling parts (10, 100) which can be connected to each other and a mechanism for locking and unlocking. The mechanism comprises a first locking element (26) arranged on the first coupling part (10) and a second locking element (114) arranged on the second coupling part (100), an unlocking element (28) arranged on the first coupling part (10) which is biased into a locking position and can be moved into an unlocking position against the biasing, in which unlocking position it acts on one (114) of the two locking elements (26, 114) such that the two locking elements (26, 114) are disengaged from one another, a catch element (40) which is arranged on the first coupling part (10) and keeps the unlocking element (28) in its unlocking position against the biasing, and a release element (46) arranged on the first coupling part (10) which is biased into a first position and is acted upon by the second coupling part (100) when the coupling parts (10, 100) are connected to each other and is pushed into the second position against the biasing. The release element (46) acts on the catch element (40) in its first position such that the same is disengaged from the unlocking element (28). |
| US08146956B2 |
Coupling for a connector for fluid pipes with a metal wire spring
A coupling for a connector for fluid pipes includes a female base in which a male end-piece is inserted to produce a sealed connection. An elastically deformable C-shaped metal wire spring immobilizes the end-piece in the base. A locking sleeve is movable axially around the spring and the base between a first axial position in which the spring can deform radially towards the outside of the base, and a second axial position prohibiting the radial deformation of the spring. The sleeve has at least one radial interior recess into which the spring retracts when deformed by the end-piece in the first position. Each recess is offset axially with respect to the spring in the second position, preventing the radial deformation of the spring and thereby safeguarding the sealed connection. |
| US08146945B2 |
Motor vehicle steering column
A motor vehicle steering column includes a bracket fixed to the vehicle and a steering column tube. The steering column tube may be adjusted in inclination relative to the bracket fixed to the vehicle via an adjusting device. The adjusting device includes a lever which is mounted pivotably on the bracket and may be deflected about a pivot axis by a driving device. The motor vehicle steering column may permit a maximum inclination setting irrespective of the available construction space. A deflecting clamp which is connected pivotably to the steering column tube is coupled to an output end of the lever. |
| US08146943B2 |
Knee airbag device for vehicle
It is an object to ensure that, even when knee regions of an occupant are in a near state with respect to a storage section of a knee airbag at the time of a frontal collision of a vehicle, the knee regions can be restrained appropriately by the knee airbag.A knee airbag 14 stored in a folded state in a glove box door 22 (a storage section) receives a supply of a gas at the time of a frontal collision of a vehicle 18 and inflates and deploys toward knee regions 36K of an occupant 36 seated in a front passenger seat 12 (a vehicle seat). At this time, when the knee regions 36K of the occupant 36 are in a near state with respect to the glove box door 22, the gas inside the knee airbag 14 becomes ventable to the outside from a vent hole 16, The vent hole 16 appropriately vents this gas from the inside, of the knee airbag 14, and the reaction force of the knee airbag 14 with respect to the knee regions 36K are reduced. |
| US08146940B2 |
Adjustable stiffness strap
The invention relates to an ankle strap assembly for a snowboard binding. The strap assembly includes a middle strap portion having a stiffening panel with a longitudinal slot defining upper and lower rails, and at least one stiffening member that engages the upper and lower rails. The invention also relates to a method for adjusting the stiffness of a strap assembly for a snowboard binding. |
| US08146938B2 |
Method and device for pedalling
A pedalling method and device for a user in standing position. The device includes a drive shaft whereof the rotation about its axis is coupled with the rotation of two right and left pedals. The pedals are mutually assembled via a plurality of cranks, connecting rods, and pivots such that: the pedals can travel freely along a circular path, for a constant rotational speed of the shaft, the speeds of the pedals are recurrent at equal time intervals but out of phase, minimal at lower dead center, maximal at upper dead center, and when the pedals are simultaneously at a common height lower than that of the center of the trajectory, the speeds of the pedals are equal. The vertical oscillation of the center of gravity of a user in standing position is reduced compared to a conventional pedal assembly. |
| US08146936B2 |
Child trailer
A child trailer includes a body which includes a plurality of wheel assemblies at the bottom and a joint assembly at the front side to adjust the angle relative to the body. Hence the child trailer can be maintained at a desired angle to support standing of a child or holding of goods. The joint assembly includes a coupler at the front side to fasten the child trailer to the chassis such as a wheel axle, frame or handle of a stroller, thereby can facilitate standing of the child or holding of goods. |
| US08146934B2 |
Suspension link
A suspension link assembly is provided. The link assembly includes a link member having a head portion and a shank. The head portion has a concave surface. The head portion further includes a convex surface. At least one bushing is provided. The bushing has convex and concave surfaces for respectively engaging the concave and convex surfaces of the head portion. A tapered aperture extends through the head portion from the convex surface to the concave surface. |
| US08146932B2 |
Suspension for an all terrain vehicle
An all-terrain vehicle including a frame having longitudinally-spaced ends defining a first longitudinal axis, and an engine supported by the frame. The engine includes a crankshaft defining a second longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the first longitudinal axis. |
| US08146931B2 |
Wheel assembly
A wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a knuckle having an upper end and a lower end. A bracket is mounted to one of the upper end and the lower end of the knuckle by a plurality of fasteners. A ball joint is mounted to the bracket and configured for attaching the wheel assembly to the vehicle. One of the knuckle and the bracket defines a boss and the other defines a bore. The boss is slideably disposed within the bore in slip fit engagement. The boss transfers a load between the knuckle and the bracket in both a vertical direction along a king pin axis and a horizontal direction along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle. |
| US08146919B2 |
Image reading apparatus and document supply device thereof
An image reading apparatus, a document supply device thereof and methods thereof may reduce a scanning operation time. A document supply device may include a holding position (e.g., internal) for a following document such that a scanning time between documents may be reduced. The document supply device may include a main feed path to guide an introduced document, a simplex path coupled to the main feed path and to guide the document fed through the main feed path to the scanning window to scan one document surface (e.g., first surface), a duplex path to guide the document having passed the scanning window to the simplex path to scan the other document surface (e.g., second surface), an auxiliary supply path coupled to the main feed path and the simplex path where the document fed through the main feed path temporarily stands by before being fed to the scanning window. |
| US08146915B2 |
Method and apparatus for laterally aligning a sheet in a processing machine and sheet-fed printing machine having the apparatus
A method and an apparatus for laterally aligning a sheet in a processing machine, in particular a printing machine, carries out lateral sheet alignment on a cylinder of the printing machine, e.g. a feed cylinder. In order to achieve large correction distances in relation to a possible lateral movement capability of a gripper bar, the latter is prealigned prior to correction in such a way that, in the event of deviation from predetermined desired values, it is prealigned laterally to defined positions. A sheet-fed rotary printing machine having the apparatus, is also provided. |
| US08146911B2 |
Sheet feeding device and imaging apparatus employing sheet feeding device
A sheet feeding device includes a sheet feed tray, a chute having first and second guides, first and second rollers arranged on the first guide, first and second contact members protruded from the second guide and urged to contact the first and second rollers, respectively, and a sheet sensor arranged between the first roller and the second roller. A controller controls a motor to rotate the first and second rollers in a first direction in which the sheet is fed from the second roller to the first roller when the controller receives a signal from the sensor, and controls the motor to stop the rotation of the first and second rollers when the signal from the sensor is terminated, and then rotate the first and second rollers in a second direction in which the sheet is fed from the first roller to the second roller. |
| US08146910B2 |
Conveying device for feeding printed products to a processing unit
A conveying device for feeding printed products to a processing unit in which the printed products are conveyed along a conveying path by a first conveyor, from a stack in which the printed products are arranged vertically, to a second conveyor which has a higher circumferential speed than the first conveyor for forming an imbricated formation which is upwardly offset, wherein a holding-down device which acts on the printed products and is formed of at least one endless traction unit is arranged in a transition area formed by the conveying end of the first conveyor and the conveying beginning of the second conveyor. |
| US08146909B2 |
Sheet aligning device, sheet processing device, and image forming apparatus
A conveying unit receives a sheet from an upstream unit and conveys the sheet on a conveying path. A stacking unit stacks the sheet conveyed from the conveying unit. An aligning unit sets the sheet back in a direction opposite to a sheet conveying direction and aligns the sheet by bumping the sheet against a reference wall. A sheet discharging unit discharges the sheet aligned on the stacking unit. When a predetermined condition is satisfied, a control unit sets a timing for discharging the sheet by the sheet discharging unit earlier than a normal sheet discharge timing. |
| US08146904B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus, sheet processing apparatus, and image forming apparatus
A sheet stacking apparatus includes an alignment roller which conveys a sheet to a sheet positioning member and an opening and closing shutter which is disposed so as to face a sheet stack surface of a sheet stack guide. The sheet positioning member abuts a sheet end in a sheet conveying direction to align the sheet. The sheet is stacked on the sheet stack guide. The opening and closing shutter has a regulating area where sheet conveying guide and buckling of the sheet are regulated from an upstream side to a downstream side in the sheet conveying direction of the alignment roller. A guide interval formed between the opening and closing shutter and the sheet stack surface can be changed. Therefore, in sheet conveying positioning, the buckling can securely be prevented in the sheet stack guide. |
| US08146902B2 |
Hybrid composite wafer carrier for wet clean equipment
A carrier structure for supporting a substrate when being processed by passing the carrier through a meniscus formed by upper and lower proximity heads is described. The carrier includes a frame having an opening sized for receiving a substrate and a plurality of support pins for supporting the substrate within the opening, the opening being slightly larger than the substrate such that a gap exists between the substrate and the opening. The frame comprises a composite core, a top sheet, a bottom sheet, a layer of aramid fabric between the top sheet and the core and a second layer of aramid fabric between the bottom sheet and the core. The top sheet and the bottom sheet being formed from a polymer material. A method of manufacture is also described. |
| US08146898B2 |
Elastomeric compression spring
An elastomeric compression including an elastomeric body defining a longitudinal axis and having two hollow convolutions between opposed ends of the spring. The convolutions are integrally formed and joined to each other by a connecting section. Each hollow convolution includes wall structure defining an outer surface for the spring. The wall structure of each convolution includes two angled wall sections disposed to opposed sides of the axis and which angle away from the connecting section and from each other. The outer surface of that portion of each angled wall section of each convolution adjacent to the connecting section has a projection extending outwardly from the outer surface. As such, and when the angled wall sections of one convolution collapse toward the angled wall sections of the other convolution, in response to a load being directed against the spring, the opposed projections on the convolutions contact and engage with each other thereby enhancing performance characteristics of the spring. |
| US08146889B2 |
Low friction coatings for dynamically engaging load bearing surfaces
A gate valve has a body, the body having a cavity and a flow passage intersecting the cavity. A seat ring is mounted to the body at the intersection of the flow passage and the cavity, the seat ring having an engaging face. A gate in the cavity has an engaging face that slidingly engages the face of the seat ring while being moved between open and closed positions. A friction-resistant coating is on at least one of the faces. |
| US08146888B1 |
Stopper sleeve assembly into standard valve
In a valve, the combination comprises a valve body defining an annular seat, and porting at upstream and downstream sides of the seat; a valve operating handle and stem; a tubular part connected into the body and defining a first side opening facing toward one of the sides; a tubular stopper sleeve received within the tubular part and having an open end facing the seat; and a second side opening rotatable by the stem into and out of registration with the first side opening whereby flow through the valve and stopper sleeve is established when the second side opening registers with the first side opening, and flow through the valve is blanked when the second side opening is rotated out of registration with the first side opening. |
| US08146887B1 |
Damper mechanism
A damper mechanism comprising a single piece damper blade and a damper seal. The damper blade having a tie-down tab pair, with the tie-down tab pair positioned along a periphery edge of the damper blade for coupling a damper seal with the damper blade. The damper seal is comprised of a set of apertures for insertion of the tie-down tab pair for locking the damper seal with the damper blade. |
| US08146885B2 |
Field removable bonnet assemblies for use with valves
Field removable bonnet assemblies for use with valves are described herein. An example field removable bonnet assembly for use with internal valves includes a body that is to be removably coupled to the internal valve. The body defines a bore that is to receive a valve packing. Additionally, the field removable bonnet assembly includes a shaft having a cam assembly that is to rotatably engage a stem of the internal valve. The shaft is rotatably coupled to the body and the shaft is at least partially positioned within the bore. Further, the field removable bonnet assembly includes a removable adjuster that is externally accessible to enable an adjustment of the removable adjuster relative to the body to change a force exerted by the valve packing on the shaft. The removable adjuster is field removable to replace or repair the valve packing. |
| US08146884B2 |
High pressure control valve that allows for multiple pressure drops
This invention relates to a control valve which comprises a first and a second flow channel (2, 3), a valve chamber (4) and a closing member (5), from which a shaft (6) extends. A flow connection is established in the control valve through the inner part of the chamber (4). The flow connection into the chamber (4) and the one out of the chamber (4) are constricted at all openings (A1, A2, A3) when the closing member (5) is turned about the rotation axis (10) in the chamber (4). |
| US08146882B2 |
Mold for manufacturing concrete cubipod
Cubipods are heavy concrete objects used as protection means for dyke or breakwater mantles on coasts or the like and have a cubic or orthohedral shape with projections on the faces (3) thereof; the number, position and geometric shape of said projections (2) may vary. The mold comprises a table (4) with a plate (6) wherein is hollowed a recess (5) corresponding with the lower projection of the cubipod (1) and has support legs (9) on a rigid plinth (10). A prismatic casing (11) with the cubipod (1) shape but lacking the upper base, rests on the table (4). A frame of profiles (18, 19) with a hood (17) for forming the upper projection is hinged on an upper edge. Mould removal is achieved by raising the casing (11), after taking away a number of dihedral surfaces (14-15) which form the lower face of the projections (2) and lower part of the casing. |
| US08146880B2 |
Apparatus for removing/installing a window sash
An apparatus for supporting a window sash (54) has clamps (14, 16) for clamping the support apparatus to a frame unit (52) of a window assembly (50) and support arms (42) mounted on the support apparatus for supporting the window sash (54) in an open position relative to the frame unit (52). The apparatus has the advantage that it allows a window sash of the type that opens outwardly of a building to be removed and/or installed from the interior of the building. |
| US08146879B2 |
Umbrella holder
An umbrella holder includes a hollow tube for placing an umbrella handle. A fixing mechanism assembled is on the hollow tube and has a rotary button with a threaded rod screwed with a fixing block in the tube for tightening or releasing the umbrella handle, with a stop plate positioning the threaded rod of the rotary button. A first angle-adjusting mechanism is positioned under the hollow tube and has an immovable geared disk and a movable geared disk mounted on a rotary base and has an eccentric actuating member to engage or disengage the immovable and the movable geared disks. The holder also has a second angle-adjusting mechanism assembled under the first angle-adjusting mechanism and having an immovable geared disk with a fixed shaft and a movable geared disk disposed on a base having an eccentric actuating member for engaging or disengaging the immovable and the movable geared disks of the second angle-adjusting mechanism. |
| US08146876B1 |
Telescoping support stand apparatus
A telescoping support stand comprising a first tube partially defining a first enclosed area and a second tube partially defining a second enclosed area. A first end of the second tube may be telescopically slidable within the first tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a first locking mechanism attached to the second tube. The first locking mechanism may releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas. The telescoping support stand may further comprise a release mechanism and a release rod attached to the first locking mechanism. The release mechanism may comprise a displacement member adjacent to the release rod, the displacement member being configured to displace the release rod and release the first locking mechanism. A corresponding method of assembly is also disclosed. |
| US08146875B2 |
Mosquito coil holder
A mosquito coil holder in the form of a clip. The clip has a first and second contact portions each adapted to contact a mosquito coil and to hold a mosquito coil therebetween. First and second support portions support the respective first and second contact portions relative to each other. A connection portion connects the first and second support portions. The clip includes at least one base portion which acts as a base upon which the clip can stand in use, while holding a mosquito coil. |
| US08146874B2 |
Mounting support assembly for suspending a medical instrument driver above an operating table
An adapter plate assembly which provides a convenient interface between a mounting support assembly for suspending an instrument driver robotic instrument system above a operating table. The adapter plate securely mounts to the operating table, and may be adjustable so that it can be adjusted to fit various sizes and models of operating tables. The adapter plate assembly comprises a main plate which rests on the surface of the operating table. A first clamp assembly which removably attaches to the operating table is mounted on one or more horizontal adjustment rods which are slidably received in one of the main plate in order to provide adjustability to the width of the adapter plate assembly. On the opposing end of the main plate, a second clamp assembly is coupled main plate. In order to secure the support assembly of a robotic instrument system, an adapter rail is also coupled to the main plate. The adapter rail is configured to detachably couple to a support assembly interface of the support assembly, and provides sufficient structural support for suspending the instrument driver above the operating table. |
| US08146863B2 |
Aircraft doorway
The invention concerns a doorway in an aircraft fuselage comprising a door frame in which a door is mounted, this frame comprising an outer framework, an inner framework and a core placed between the inner framework and the outer framework, capable of absorbing energy from an impact, the core being a stiffener made of composite material having an accordion shape. |
| US08146857B2 |
Initiating flight of a flying structure
In example embodiments described herein, techniques are described for launching flying structures such as a plank wings or a gliders, canards, or any other flying structures. In some example embodiments, a rotational arrangement facilitates such launches. In operation, a rotational arrangement couples with the flying structure and is configured to allow a user to impart rotational movement to the flying structure. In imparting the rotational movement, the rotational mechanism allows an automatic variation of a radius of the associated radius of curvature. |
| US08146851B2 |
Centre-feed roll and production methods thereof
The invention relates to a coreless roll including of a sheet made of dry flexible material, such as an absorbent fibrous material, that is formed by the rolling of a sheet around a winding axis characterized in that it includes a center-feed (center unwinding) first strip forming a projection along the axis in relation to at least one part of the plane of one of the sides of the roll. In particular, this first strip is constituted by a portion of the internal end of the sheet constituting the roll. The first internal turn is thus permitted to unwind, even if the center opening is reduced. |
| US08146849B2 |
Chopping drum for a forage harvester
A chopping drum for a forage harvester has a shaft. Supporting rings are mounted on the shaft one next to the other in the axial direction and extending in the radial direction. Blade holders are distributed around the outer periphery of the supporting rings, and chopping blades are mounted on the blade holders by first screws. The first screws produce a connection between blade holders one following the other in the peripheral direction. |
| US08146845B2 |
Automatic shredder without choosing the number of paper to be shredded
The present invention relates to an automatic shredder without choosing the number of paper to be shredded which comprises a shredder core and an automatic paper feeding device, the automatic paper feeding device comprises a driving mechanism, a paper support box, a pick-up mechanism and a paper press box, the driving mechanism is fixed on the shredder core and connected with the pick-up mechanism for driving the pick-up mechanism, the paper support box comprises a first zone and a second zone, the pick-up mechanism is positioned between the first zone and the second zone and fixed to the paper support box, and its paper feeding direction is towards the second zone, one end of the paper press box is pivoted with the paper support box, the other end of the paper press box is connected detachable with the paper support box, the paper support box is fixed on the shredder core, and the second zone has a paper inlet positioned above the blade assembly of the shredder core, a magnet is positioned in the first zone, the automatic shredder further comprises an elastic paper press and retaining device mounted inside the paper press box and extending to the first zone, the magnet corresponds to the elastic paper press and retaining device, so the present invention can deal with a very large amount of paper to be shredded at one time, has a simple and convenient operation, is designed dexterously, and has a concise structure and a economical cost. |
| US08146839B2 |
Fuel injection device for an internal combustion engine
A fuel injection device for an internal combustion engine includes a housing and a valve element which is arranged in the housing. The valve element interacts, in the region of a fuel outlet opening, with a valve seat. The valve element is embodied by at least one first part and at least one second part which are coupled to one another by means of a hydraulic coupler. The hydraulic coupler has a coupling chamber which is delimited at least partially by a sleeve which is guided on the first part of the valve element. Additionally a guide element guides an end region of the first part of the valve element, which end region being oriented toward the second part of the valve element. |
| US08146837B2 |
Radially outward flowing air-blast fuel injection for gas turbine engine
An air-blast fuel injector is disclosed which includes an outer air circuit having an exit portion, an inner air circuit having an outlet configured to direct air toward the exit portion of the outer air circuit, and a fuel circuit radially outboard of the inner air circuit and having an exit communicating with the outer air circuit upstream from the exit portion of the outer air circuit. |
| US08146834B2 |
Concrete carriageway for rail vehicles
Concrete carriageway for rail vehicles, having single- or multiple-block sleepers embedded in a carriageway panel, whereby the carriageway panel has areas of thinned cross-section disposed transverse to the direction of travel for generating cracks and in each has at least one body for transmitting transverse forces which overlaps the region of thinned cross-section on both sides. |
| US08146832B2 |
Answer to reset (ATR) pushing
A wireless-enabled smart card reader receives an Answer to Reset (ATR) from a smart card and transmits the ATR using a wireless communication link to a computing device without waiting for an ATR request from the computing device. The computing device may cache the ATR and use it for subsequent communication sessions with the smart card. |
| US08146830B2 |
RFID tag and method of fabricating an RFID tag
An RFID tag (1, 1′) comprises at least one antenna (2, 2′) and electronic tag components (4) cooperating with the antenna, wherein the antenna (2, 2′) and the electronic tag components (4) are positioned on a common substrate (3), wherein portions (3b) of the substrate encircled by the antenna (2, 2′) and not occupied by the electronic tag components (4) have been removed. |
| US08146827B2 |
Stored-value card with light
A stored-value card includes a housing, a light circuit and an account identifier. The housing includes a cover and a base. The cover and the base each define a respective primary panel and a plurality of side walls extending from the respective primary panel. The plurality of side walls defined by the base abut the plurality of side walls defined by the cover. The light circuit includes a light and a switch. The light circuit is substantially enclosed between the base and the cover, and the light is configured to emit illumination upon user interaction with the switch. The account identifier links the stored-value card to an account or record such that value from the account or record can be used as payment toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Stored-value card assemblies and methods of using a stored-value card are also disclosed. |
| US08146823B2 |
Method and apparatus for rapid image capture in an image system
Embodiments of a method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for rapidly capturing images in an automated identification system to effectively extend one dimension of a field of view of an image system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the image system captures and processes multiple images of at least a portion of a surface of a component in the automated identification system in response to a trigger signal communicated from a triggering device configured to sense a location of the component. Various embodiments of the invention include multiple sources for capturing images, and/or multiple user-specified schemas for effectively extending the field of view of the image system along the axis of component travel in the automated identification system. |
| US08146821B2 |
Auto-exposure for multi-imager barcode reader
A bar code reader 10 includes a housing 20 including one or more transparent windows H, V and defining a housing interior region. As a target object is swiped or presented in relation to the transparent windows an image of the target object is captured. Cameras C1-C6 have an image capture sensor array with a global shutter is positioned within the housing interior region for capturing an image of a bar code within a camera field of view. All the cameras produce images in a sequential manner during an image frame time period. An image processing system has a processor for decoding a bar code carried by the target object. The processing system responds to signals from a light sensor to terminate object illumination when an adequate image exposure has transpired. |
| US08146819B2 |
Indicia reading terminal having image sensor and variable lens assembly
There is described an image sensor based indicia reading terminal comprising a variable setting imaging lens having a first setting at which the terminal has a first plane of optimum focus and a second setting at which the terminal has a second plane of optimum focus. According to one embodiment, a first predetermined picture size where picture size is determined according to a number of pixels subject to read out, can be associated to the first lens setting and a second picture size can be associated to the second lens setting such that the terminal with the lens setting set to the first setting reads out a frame of a first picture size and with the lens setting set to a second setting reads out a frame of a second picture size. In addition to or in place of the picture size operational parameters, different operational parameters can be associated to the respective first and second lens settings. Additionally or alternatively, different processes for determining an operational parameter and/or different algorithms for determining an operational parameter can be associated to each of the first and second lens settings. |
| US08146818B2 |
Apparatus and method for symbol information reading
A symbol information reading apparatus may include an imaging element; an image memory structured to store image data; a position detecting processor structured to fetch the image data and structured to detect a position of symbol information. The position detecting processor may include a temporary area judgment unit that structured to calculate a variation of brightness, and structured to judge a temporary area having a possibility of corresponding to the symbol information; a correlation map creating unit that structured to calculate correlation between areas neighboring in a direction perpendicular to the scanning direction, and structured to create a map showing an area provided with large correlation values; a labeling unit that structured to check presence of a basic barcode on the correlation map, and structured to label an area judged as having the basic barcode; and a position determining unit that structured to detect a position of the symbol information recorded. |
| US08146817B2 |
Reading apparatus having partial frame operating mode
A method for decoding a decodable symbol using an optical reader having a 2D image sensor that is configured to operate in a partial frame capture operating mode. In a partial frame operating mode, the reader clocks out and captures at least one partial frame of image data having image data corresponding to less than all of the pixels of an image sensor pixel array. In one embodiment, the reader operating in a partial frame operating mode captures image data corresponding to a linear pattern of pixels of the image sensor, reads the image data, and attempts to decode for a decodable bar code symbol which may be represented in the image data. |
| US08146813B2 |
Methods and apparatus processing container images and/or identifying codes for front end loaders or container handlers servicing rail cars
An optical characteristic system configured to couple to a container handler for transferring a container to/from a rail car. A server interface configured to receive from at least one container handler. An optical characteristic system configured to couple to a front end loader. A container handler configured to transfer at least one container to/from a rail car and to report its container image, optical characteristic, container code estimate of the container, a rail car identifier estimate and/or a container chassis identifier estimate. A rail kiosk configured to receive the container image, etc from at least one container handler to create the optical characteristic, the container code estimate, manifest for the rail car, confirmation of the manifest and/or an insurance record for the container. A method operating at least one of the server interface, the rail kiosk and a container inventory management system and the products of those operations. |
| US08146808B2 |
Card which can be authenticated by hologram chip
A card authentication is performed. An authentication chip for performing authentication by a copy-disabled hologram chip is attached to a card and when or after the card is introduced into a handling device, the authentication chip information is read to perform authentication. Read may be performed in a planar shape but a linear shape can reduce the processing load. An arbitrary straight line or a curved line may be used as a read line shape by modifying the read position in association with the card movement when the card is placed to be read. When the card introduced to a terminal device is an unauthorized one, the card is ejected or an alarm is issued when the card is introduced inside. |
| US08146805B1 |
Systems and methods for depositing cash into deposit account
A deposit card may be issued to a user that allows the user to go to a merchant and deposit cash into a deposit account of the user using information from the deposit card. The deposit card is unidirectional as it only can be used to deposit money into the deposit account. A barcode may be generated and disposed on the deposit card or provided separately. The barcode represents data that may be used in the deposit of cash to the deposit account, such as the name or other identification of the user, a card number of the deposit card, the name or other identification of the institution, an account number of the deposit account, etc. A merchant may use a barcode reader to read the barcode and obtain data that may be used in the deposit. |
| US08146803B1 |
Automated banking machine with noncontact reading of card data
An automated banking machine can receive user card data from a cell phone. The phone stores the card data of several selectable cards, including electronic account number data. The machine generates and displays a random number correlated with a time period. A machine user manually inputs the displayed random number into their phone. A software application in the phone encrypts the selected card data along with the inputted random number data. The phone displays a bar code image containing the encrypted data. The banking machine includes a bar code reader which can read the displayed image. The machine causes the read data to be decrypted. The random number is used to verify the current transaction session. Thereafter, the user may provide other inputs, including PIN input. The process replaces physical insertion of a card yet allows secure input of the card data. Possible data interception from activities requiring card insertion are also reduced. |
| US08146802B1 |
Automated banking machine with noncontact reading of card data
An automated banking machine can receive user card data from a cell phone. The phone stores the card data of several selectable cards, including electronic account number data. The machine generates and displays a random number correlated with a time period. A machine user manually inputs the displayed random number into their phone. A software application in the phone encrypts the selected card data along with the inputted random number data. The phone displays a bar code image containing the encrypted data. The banking machine includes a bar code reader which can read the displayed image. The machine causes the read data to be decrypted. The random number is used to verify the current transaction session. Thereafter, the user may provide other inputs, including PIN input. The process replaces physical insertion of a card yet allows secure input of the card data. Possible data interception from activities requiring card insertion are also reduced. |
| US08146801B1 |
Card activated automated banking machine system and method
A card actuated automated banking machine (10) is operative to carry out financial transactions responsive to data included on user cards. The machine includes a user interface (15) including a display (24). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify at least one of user and a user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Authorization signals assure that the display is operating in a manner that provides appropriate user instructions. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted. |
| US08146799B2 |
Product information systems and methods
Embodiments provide product information to a person viewing a product by capturing a product identifier image associated with the product, determining a product identifier from the image, and retrieving product information from a product database using the product identifier. In some cases the product information is filtered prior to display using a profile that includes criteria set by the user. Embodiments provide product information via a handheld computing device, which in some cases can be a mobile phone or other such device that also includes a camera for capturing product identifier images. |
| US08146798B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring waste removal and administration
A method for a municipality to control, track, and monitor waste or refuse receptacles requires a permit for use of a waste receptacle. An issuing organization issues a permit associated with a discreet receptacle identifier. An RFID tag is provided with the permit and attached to a discreet receptacle. The RFID tag transmits a signal carrying data associated with the discreet receptacle identifier. The signal may be read by a portable reader carried by municipal personnel to record violations of municipal code associated with the use of the discreet receptacle. |
| US08146794B2 |
Boom and arm member of construction machine excellent in weld zone fatigue strength and method of improvement of its fatigue strength
The present invention provides a boom and arm member of a construction machine excellent in weld zone fatigue strength and a method of improvement of its fatigue strength, that is, a boom and arm member of a construction machine superior in weld zone fatigue strength, the boom and arm member of a construction machine characterized in that toes of full penetrated weld zones of the boom and arm member have vibration strike marks, and a method of improvement of its fatigue strength. Preferably, the residual stress of the bottom surface of the vibration strike marks is a 10 MPa or higher compressive residual stress. |
| US08146792B2 |
Solder return for wave solder nozzle
A solder return apparatus for a wave solder machine that collects solder exiting a nozzle and returns the solder to a solder reservoir while limiting the degree to which the solder can splash onto electronic substrates (e.g., printed circuit boards), components of the wave solder machine, and/or the like. The apparatus includes a mounting section that may be placed over an upper surface of the nozzle and a collection section that collects the solder and returns the solder to the solder reservoir. The collection section includes a trough having an opening in a bottom wall of the trough and a flow control member that can adjust a quantity of solder exiting the trough as well as the velocity of the solder exiting the trough. One or more deflection plates can be mounted so as to extend from the trough into solder in the solder reservoir to further contain the solder and limit the degree to which splashing solder can reach unintended locations. |
| US08146785B2 |
Tool retaining apparatus
An apparatus for tethering tool(s) to a worker, object, support or the like, allows single or multiple tools to remain in close proximity to the worker for easy access and use. The tool(s) remain secured, so as not to fall out of the worker's range or fall to a point where the tools become lost. |
| US08146782B2 |
Foam head, and foam head with a propellant container
Disclosed is a foam head (1) for a propellant container (2) with an inner and an outer crimped edge (3, 4) of a valve disk (5). Said foam head (1) comprises an actuating button (6) and a foam discharge port (7) and is embodied so as to sit directly on a valve stem (8). A bottom section (9) of the foam head (1) has an outer diameter (10) that is approximately identical to an inner diameter (11) of the inner crimped edge (3). An outer rib (13) which faces the actuating button (6) is disposed in a lower area (12) of the bottom section (9) so as to engage underneath a bottom side (14) of the inner crimped edge (3). A lower edge (15) of the bottom section (9) is provided with at least one recess (16) in order to form an annular spring (17). |
| US08146780B2 |
Interlocking dispensing system for dispensing a pumpable products
The presently disclosed subject matter comprises a pouch to house a pumpable product, a pouch fitment to the pouch, and an enclosing carton for containing the pouch and fitment. The system further comprises a pump assembly that pierces the pouch fitment and interacts with the carton to dispense the pouch contents. |
| US08146779B2 |
Self-orienting aerosol apparatus and method of cleaning a trash can
An orienting skirt joined to an aerosol can, the orienting skirt having a generally arcuate rim extending outward such that when the can is placed on a flat surface, the rim urges the can into a predetermined generally stable horizontal configuration with the discharge nozzle oriented in an upright direction. A full release actuator is disposed adjacent to the valve stem of the aerosol can and has a trigger and a discharge nozzle such that when the trigger is pressed the contents of the aerosol can are dispensed through the discharge nozzle. With the discharge nozzle in an upright direction, the contents of the can are dispersed more evenly on the interior surfaces of the trash can. |
| US08146774B2 |
Grab bar for a waste container
A waste cart includes a container having a wall, with a pocket formed in an outer surface of the wall that creates a first sidewall facing a second sidewall, with an opening formed in both sidewalls. A grab bar has a free-sliding end and a retention end. The free-sliding end is inserted through the opening in the first sidewall, and the retention end is inserted through the opening in the second sidewall. The retention end includes a retainer for securing the grab bar with respect to the second sidewall. In the current embodiment, the grab bar includes a snap element near the retention end and a flange portion between the snap element and the free-sliding end. When the grab bar is installed, a portion of the second sidewall is positioned between the snap element and the flange portion. |
| US08146772B2 |
Water heater threaded weld fitting having improved weld integrity
A threaded weld fitting and a method of welding a threaded weld fitting to the tank wall of a water storage tank are provided. The threaded weld fitting includes a body defining an aperture and having a facing surface configured to be positioned facing the tank wall. A female thread is formed along the aperture. A first beveled surface portion of the facing surface extends from an edge of the body. A landing surface portion of the facing surface extends from the first beveled surface portion toward a longitudinal axis of the aperture. A second beveled surface portion of the facing surface extends from the landing surface and to the female thread. The landing surface portion and the second beveled surface portion together define an open annular area positioned to receive a portion of a weld formed by welding the threaded weld fitting to the tank wall. |
| US08146771B1 |
Container delivery system
A collapsible container system comprises first and second opposed trays capable of nesting when unopposed, each tray has a tray lip disposed along the perimeter thereof and a plurality of lip slots therein. A wall element has a plurality of sides when unfolded that engage the tray lip of said first and second opposed trays to form a rigid container. A plurality of straps capable of being inserted through the plurality of lip slots in the tray lip whereby the straps are arranged to secure the first and second opposed trays and wall element to each other. Advantageously, the lip slots are vertically positioned at or below an inner supporting surface of a lower tray providing a liquid drainage system. Optionally, the container system may have an inner and outer wall element providing additional strength and rigidity and may also have a liquid container stored therein. |
| US08146767B1 |
Trash container
The improved foot pedal mechanism for opening the lid of a typical commercial trash bin includes an additional foot pedal for sliding open the side door of the same commercial trash bin. The foot pedal lid includes a foot pedal connected to a rotating bar mechanism that is located within the housing. The opposing end of the rotating bar mechanism connects to a lifting bar, which raises and lowers a top lid of the trash bins. The foot pedal lid is designed to be located along a side of the trash bin, and not in front or on a corner. The foot pedal door uses a series of spur gears, a track, and a connecting rod as the means to open the side door. |
| US08146763B2 |
Collapsible storage device
A collapsible container includes a plurality of wall panels, wherein each wall panel is connected to each adjacent wall panel at a hinged connection. The wall panels are arranged so as to articulate at the hinged connections between a collapsed position and an expanded position defining a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The collapsible container also includes an anti-fold lock that is disposed proximate to a hinged connection between first and second adjacent side walls. The first side wall includes at least two wall panels defining a diagonal hinge extending substantially between diagonally opposite corners of the side wall and the anti-fold lock is articulable into a locked position across the diagonal hinge. |
| US08146760B1 |
Baby bottle with tubular gripping sections
A baby bottle comprising an asymmetrically divided lower portion continuous with a common upper portion that is attachable to a nipple assembly. The upper portion and lower portion together define a single, continuous fluid chamber. The upper portion includes an open top providing access to the fluid chamber. The lower portion comprises first and second side-by side tubular sections together defining a central opening between them and through the bottle. The central opening is sized to receive the hand of a nursing child so that each of the first and second tubular sections is alternately grippable by the child nursing from the bottle. The diameter of the first tubular section is greater than the diameter of the second tubular section so that the bottle is grippable by different sized hands, that is, by infants and toddlers of different ages and sizes. |
| US08146757B2 |
Bottle for dispensing fluids
A bottle for dispensing fluids, semi-solid, ointments, gels, paste, creams, powder, and the like. The substances in the container are naturally fed by gravity to a dispensing portion without the need for the dispenser to be placed in a vertical position, upside down position, or inclined position in order to allow the substances to move to the tip of the dispensing portion, all the while maintaining the container in a horizontal orientation. |
| US08146756B2 |
Universal toolless rack mount bracket
A bracket for connecting a slide assembly to a rack having any one of multiple hole standards. The bracket includes a first portion defining a first surface that contacts the rack and a second portion that defines a second surface that contacts the rack. The first portion and the second portion cooperate to capture a portion of the rack therebetween. The bracket further includes a first projection sized and shaped to engage a first rack hole standard and a second projection sized and shaped to engage a second rack hole standard. The bracket may also include additional projections configured to engage additional hole standards. |
| US08146754B2 |
Storage and organization system
A storage and/or organization system may be used to store and/or organize various items. For example, the system may include one or more panels and one or more attachment members, which may be connected to the panels and may be used to hold and/or position various items in desired locations. The attachment members may be selectively connected to and/or removed from the panels to provide a variety of storage and organization solutions. The panels may include, for example, one or more receiving portions to which the attachment members may be connected to and/or disconnected from using a snap, friction and/or interference fit. One or more portions of the panels and/or the attachment members may deform and/or deflect to provide the snap, friction and/or interference. One or more portions of the panels and/or the attachment members may remain deformed and/or deflected to provide a tension fit. |
| US08146753B2 |
Medicine cart
A medicine cart (1) is provided which includes a plurality of cassettes (10) which are upwardly open and each accommodate a plurality of medicine containers in an upright state in a row. The plurality of cassettes (10) are placed on a shelf plate (8) which can be drawn out of a main body (3) of the medicine cart (1). A pressing member (47) is provided in each cassette (10) and forwardly presses a rearmost medicine container in its respective cassette (10). Each cassette (10) has a locking means (61) for locking the pressing member (47) at a predetermined position in the cassette (10), and an unlocking means (62, 63) for canceling the lock of the pressing member (47) by the locking means (61) if the shelf plate (8) is pushed in or drawn out of the main body (3) of the medicine cart (1). |
| US08146751B2 |
Filter element with threaded top endplate
A filter assembly where the filter element is designed to connect directly to the spud of a vehicle fluid system, for example an engine lubrication system, a fuel system, or a hydraulic system. This provides a direct connection between the filtered fluid and the fluid system. The need for a seal between the top endplate and the nutplate, as well as the coil spring within the shell, which are found in conventional spin-on filter assemblies can be eliminated, which reduces inventory and the number of parts forming the filter assembly, and facilitates manufacturing of the filter assembly. |
| US08146750B2 |
Rotary fan press
A system for extracting liquid from a mass comprising a portable platform having an upper surface, a system mass input, a polymer feeding and blending system on the upper surface, a liquid extraction assembly on the upper surface, and piping having a first section between the system mass input and the polymer feeding and blending system, and a second section between the polymer feeding and blending system and the liquid extraction assembly. The system is configured to have mass inputted into the system mass input, transport the mass to the polymer feeding and blending system through the first section of the piping, inject polymer into the mass in the polymer feeding and blending system, and transport the mass from the polymer feeding and blending system to the liquid extraction assembly. Pressure from mass forced into the liquid extraction assembly forces liquid in the mass to exit the mass. |
| US08146746B2 |
Stackable low depth tray
A tray for storing and transporting bottles according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a base and a plurality of corner columns and side columns extending upwardly from the base, including center side columns. The center side columns and the corner columns having outer ledges defining a nesting height of the tray, such that the side walls of a similar tray nested thereon would contact and rest on the outer ledges of the center side columns and the corner columns. According to another, independent feature of the present invention, the noncenter side columns are offset inwardly relative to adjacent columns. This accommodates the handle of the tray in a ninety-degree cross-stacked configuration. As another optional feature, end columns are offset inwardly relative to adjacent corner columns in order to accommodate the handle of a similar tray nested thereon. |
| US08146745B2 |
Environmentally separable packaging device with attaching base
The present invention generally relates to a bubble package which allows a product to be displayed independently standing alone or hanging from a bracket/shelf, and also provides the ability to separate the paper and plastic portions of the package into at least two separate environmentally recycled portions. The paper based portion of the package operates as a display card and/or as a stiffener. The sides of the one or more display cards are bonded to one another to enclose the product within the plastic and prevent tampering with the product. The plastic portion, in addition to containing and displaying the product therein, optionally incorporates a base near the bottom of the package. The base protrudes from the bottom of the package and secures back onto the plastic portion via a securing mechanism. This arrangement allows the package to stand independent. Optionally, a corrugated plastic insert can be used to provide additional support to the unit. In a typical arrangement, the plastic portions and paper portions avoid being bonded or directly adhered to one another, allowing the card to be entirely separable and allowing for complete environmental recyclability. |
| US08146731B2 |
Transport device for containers and buffer facility
Apparatus for transporting containers with a transport device, which transports a multiplicity of holding devices for the containers individually along a pre-specified transport path. At least one of these holding devices comprises at least two holding elements for gripping the containers. The holding device can be rotated in relation to the transport device about a pre-specified common rotary axis. |
| US08146730B2 |
High speed diverter
A diverter assembly for handling articles transported on a conveying surface is disclosed. The diverter assembly includes at least one diverter arm and a motor coupled to a drive arrangement for swinging the diverter arm over the conveying surface. An inverter controller is provided for operating the motor at a plurality of speeds. A sensor arrangement is coupled to the inverter controller for monitoring the position of the diverter arm. The sensor arrangement sends a slow-down signal to the inverter controller when the diverter arm reaches a pre-determined position, causing the inverter controller to operate the motor at a slower speed. |
| US08146729B1 |
Automated elevator loading and unloading system
Systems and methods in accordance with exemplary embodiments for assisting cargo onto and from elevators. The system may include deck subsystems comprising rollers, a motor, and a gearbox. The motor may drive the gearbox which may drive the rollers to assist in loading cargo onto an elevator and/or assist in unloading cargo from an elevator. Deck subsystems may be located on multiple deck levels. The system may include an elevator subsystem having rollers. The deck subsystem may include a telescopic driveshaft which may extend and drive the rollers on the elevator subsystem to assist in loading and/or unloading cargo onto and from the elevator subsystem. |
| US08146728B2 |
Actuating element for the parking lock of a transmission and parking lock for a transmission
A transmission parking lock and an actuating element (1) for the parking lock. The actuating element includes a pull rod (2) and a roller carrier (3) on which are arranged a first roller (13) for rolling on a first rolling surface on the pawl of the parking lock and a second roller (14) for rolling on a second rolling surface on a guide element, such that the roller carrier (3) can be moved along a predetermined path in the longitudinal direction of the pull rod (2). The roller carrier (3) can move longitudinally on the pull rod (2). |
| US08146727B2 |
Clutch for torque transmission between a shaft and a roller which is arranged coaxially around the shaft
The present invention relates to a clutch (20) for torque transmission between a shaft (2) and a roller (30) which is arranged coaxially around the shaft (2), comprising pneumatically actuable means for selectively interrupting and/or producing a force flow between the shaft (2) and roller (30), wherein the clutch (20) is arranged within the roller (30) coaxially between the shaft (2) and roller (30). |
| US08146724B2 |
Vehicle clutch
A vehicle clutch includes a clutch outer member, a clutch inner member, and a clutch center member movable in an axial direction between a first position and a second position. A cam mechanism is provided between the clutch inner and outer members. The cam mechanism generates an axial pulling force for moving the clutch center member to the first position when positive torque acts on the clutch inner member from the clutch center member. |
| US08146723B2 |
Hydraulic control apparatus for marine reversing gear assembly for watercraft
A hydraulic control apparatus for marine reversing gear assembly for watercraft includes a pressure-reducing valve for adjusting pressure of working oil supplied from a supply pump, and supplying working oil to forward and reverse clutches; a proportional electromagnetic valve for controlling the supply of working oil to a pilot chamber of the pressure reducing valve; and a spring-type switching valve for switching to a circuit for supplying working oil to a control piston chamber for controlling a spring force of the pressure-reducing valve or to a circuit for draining working oil from the chamber; wherein a pressure output from the proportional electromagnetic valve acts upon the switching valve as a pilot pressure; and, when the pilot pressure falls below a predetermined value, the switching valve switches to the circuit for supplying the working oil to the chamber via the spring of the switching valve, fully opening the pressure-reducing valve. |
| US08146719B2 |
Disk brake friction surfaces with tunable indent patterns for minimizing brake pad radial taper wear
A brake rotor providing reduced brake pad radial taper wear by providing brake rotor friction surface indent patterns. For example, the indent patterns are the form of radial-biased grooves or linearly arranged cross-drill hole sets, patterned in a configuration that balances brake pad wear, thereby reducing brake pad radial taper wear in a manner tuned specifically for a given type of brake caliper and brake pad material, wherein the reduction in brake pad radial taper wear is accomplished with virtually no penalty to brake pad life. |
| US08146718B2 |
Automatic system brake
The translation apparatus comprises an elongate track, an elongate fixed member and a stage. The fixed member extends parallel to the track in a fixed lengthwise position relative to the track. The stage is mounted on the track and is capable of movement along the track. The stage comprises a motive force generator, a rotatable member and a rotary brake. The motive force generator is operable to move the stage along the track. The rotatable member is coupled with the fixed member in a manner that converts motion of the stage along the track into rotation of the rotatable member. The rotary brake is selectively operable to apply a braking torque to the rotatable member. The coupling between the rotatable member and the fixed member converts the braking torque applied to the rotatable member into a braking force applied to the stage. |
| US08146717B1 |
Brake arrangement for a mobile storage system
A brake arrangement is provided for a mobile storage unit having a drive arrangement for causing movement of the mobile storage unit. The brake arrangement has a brake member mounted to and rotatable with a drive shaft of the drive arrangement, and acts on the drive shaft when the input force on the drive shaft is relieved. A flexible band is engaged with the brake member and defines a pair of ends that are engaged with a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning mechanism applies a tensioning force to the ends of the brake band to tension the brake band against the brake member to inhibit rotation of the drive shaft and thus movement of the mobile storage unit when the input force is relieved. |
| US08146714B2 |
Elevator system including regenerative drive and rescue operation circuit for normal and power failure conditions
A system continuously drives an elevator hoist motor during normal and power failure conditions. A regenerative drive delivers power from a main power supply to the hoist motor during normal operation. A rescue operation circuit includes a backup power supply and is operable in the event of a failure of the main power supply to disconnect the regenerative drive from the main power supply and connect the back up power supply to the regenerative drive to provide substantially uninterrupted power to the hoist motor. |
| US08146712B2 |
Compressor lubricant system including acid filtration
A compressor system including a compressor airend having an inlet and an outlet and operable to discharge a mixed flow of fluid including a working fluid and a lubricant. A separator receives the mixed flow of fluid and discharges a primary flow of lubricant, a secondary flow of lubricant, and a flow of compressed working fluid. An acid filter includes a fluid inlet positioned to receive the secondary flow of lubricant. |
| US08146710B2 |
Step stool latch
A step stool includes a first section having at least a first step. The step stool includes a hinge bracket connected to the first section. The step stool includes a second section connected to the hinge bracket having a crossbar; and a platform having a latch that moves only in translation to lock the platform to the cross bar when the platform is in a horizontal position and prevents the first section and second section from folding when the first and second sections are in an open state. A method for establishing a step stool includes the steps of moving a latch of a platform only in translation away from a crossbar of a second section that the platform rests on in a horizontal position. There is the step of placing the second section and a first section having at least one step together into a closed position. |
| US08146707B2 |
Air conditioner
An air conditioner includes a cabinet configured to define an outer appearance of the air conditioner. The air conditioner also includes a front panel coupled to the cabinet and having an intake hole. The air conditioner further includes a fan assembly positioned within the cabinet and configured to guide a flow of air in the cabinet. The air conditioner further includes an intake panel configured to move to open or close the intake hole in response to a control signal. In addition, the air conditioner includes at least one noise reducing part positioned in the intake panel and configured to reduce a noise having at least one frequency bandwidth. |
| US08146705B2 |
Oscillating gear device, transmission ratio variable mechanism, and motor vehicle steering system
An oscillating gear device includes an axially fixed gear piece rotatable around a first axis and an axially oscillating gear piece that oscillates while being inclined with respect to the first axis. A plurality of pins held by one of the gear pieces engage with a plurality of tooth grooves of the other gear piece in engagement regions at a predetermined length in longitudinal directions of the pins. A formula rC0/rF0=ZC/ZF is satisfied, where rC0 is a distance between an arbitrary point on the central axis of the pin in a corresponding section corresponding to the engagement regions of the pin as viewed in the radial direction of the pin and the first axis, rF0 is a distance between the arbitrary point and the second axis, ZC is the number of pins of the one gear piece, and ZF is the number of tooth grooves of the other gear piece. |
| US08146704B2 |
Joystick configuration
A control system for a construction vehicle, such as a motor grader, is provided. The control system includes a plurality of joysticks supported by an operator seat assembly of the motor grader. |
| US08146702B2 |
Load handling bumper for material handling device
A material handling device includes an automated guided vehicle configured for use with a carrier. Both the vehicle and the carrier include a bumper having a reflective target mounted thereon. The automated guided vehicle includes a sensor having a light source and a scanner for receiving a reflection from the light source. The light source directs a first light beam at the vehicle reflective target and a second light beam at the carrier reflective target. When the vehicle bumper is moved toward the sensor, the vehicle reflective target moves into a reflective position and when the carrier bumper is moved toward the sensor, the carrier reflective target moves into a reflective position. The movement of the either bumper into the reflective position generates a signal from the sensor to a controller to control the movement of the automated guided vehicle in response to movement of either bumper. |
| US08146701B2 |
Component for installation under the hood of a motor vehicle
A component, especially a part of an intake system or an air filter, for installation under the hood of a motor vehicle has a housing with a first housing part and a second housing part that are connected to one another. The first housing part is of a two-part configuration and has a support frame and a receiving part. The support frame is supported on the second housing part. The receiving part and the support frame are secured relative to one another by a releasable connection. The releasable connection is designed such that, when an external force acts on the receiving part, the releasable connection is released and the receiving part and the support frame slide telescopingly into one another. |
| US08146699B2 |
Motorcycle
A motorcycle includes a head pipe arranged at a front portion of a body and configured to pivotally support a front fork; a main frame passing an upper side of an engine from the head pipe and extending towards a rear of the body; a rear frame extending towards the rear of the body from the main frame and supporting a seat at an upper side thereof; an air cleaner case at a lower side of the seat; and an air cleaner element arranged inside the air cleaner case and configured to clean air, wherein the rear frame includes a pair of left and right rear bodies of a plate shape which cover sides of the air cleaner case, and a plurality of cross members configured to couple the left and right rear bodies, and wherein each rear body is formed with a projection projecting towards an inner side of the body, and a receiving portion configured to fit the projection is formed on the air cleaner case. |
| US08146695B1 |
Automated garbage receptacle conveyance system
A sled travels back and forth along a path established by a ground laid wire, the sled using a wire sensor to detect the presence of the wire in order to keep the sled on track. Steering of the sled is controlled by having a pair of motors, each operatively connected to a wheel on opposing sides of the sled, with the motors changing relative speed with one another for turn control. A ramp is located atop the sled to allow a garbage receptacle to be able to be rolled on and off the sled. Operation of sled travel is programmable or controlled by a remote control or a combination thereof. |
| US08146686B2 |
Fiber-containing cutting tools
Fibers for diamond-impregnated cutting tools and their associated methods for manufacture and use are described. A matrix is formed that contains fibers made from carbon, glass, ceramic, polymer, and the like. The matrix is then sintered to form a cutting portion of a drill bit. The type and concentration of the fibers can be modified to control the tensile strength and the erosion rate of the matrix to optimize the cutting performance of the tools. Additionally, the fibers may be added to the cutting section to weaken the structure and allow higher modulus binders to be used for the cutting tools at a lower cost, allowing the amount of fibers to be tailored to retain the diamonds in the cutting portion for the desired amount. As the cutting portion erodes, the fibers may also increase the lubricity at the face of the cutting portion. |
| US08146685B2 |
Methods and apparatus for drilling, completing and configuring U-tube boreholes
A borehole network including first and second end surface locations and at least one intermediate surface location interconnected by a subterranean path, and a method for connecting a subterranean path between a first borehole including a directional section and a second borehole including a directional section. A directional drilling component is drilled in at least one of the directional sections to obtain a required proximity between the first and second boreholes. An intersecting component is drilled, utilizing magnetic ranging techniques, from one directional section to provide a borehole intersection between the first and second boreholes, thereby connecting the subterranean path. |
| US08146680B2 |
Anti-stall tool for downhole drilling assemblies
An anti-stall tool in an oil well drilling assembly that controls reciprocation of the drill bit by a controller that alters weight-on-bit (WOB) depending upon measured downhole pressure or torque at the downhole motor. The controller receives preset high and low working pressure limits for the downhole motor and keeps the drill bit rotating by maintaining WOB during normal drilling operations, increasing WOB if sensed working pressure indicates that drill bit loading or torque is undesirably low, and reversing WOB by retracting the drill bit if excessive working pressure or torque is sensed. |
| US08146677B2 |
Hydraulic breaker assembly
A hydraulic breaker assembly including a head cap, a cylinder, and a front head, which are mounted in a casing, wherein corresponding faces of the front head and the cylinder are connected by connecting pins, wherein the cylinder and the head cap located above the cylinder are fixed together by fastening bolts, and wherein the front head, the cylinder, and the head cap are supported on an inner side of the casing by variable dampers, which are brought into close contact with the front head, the cylinder, and the head cap. The movement in the casing is thus prevented so that the head cap, the cylinder, and the front head are strongly coupled together. The length of the fastening bolt is reduced to minimize the impact-generating section so that the bolt is protected from distortion stress occurring upon striking of the rod, thereby increasing durability. |
| US08146676B2 |
Multifunctional power tool
The invention related to a multi-functional power tool, comprises an housing, a motor set in the housing, a main shaft driven through the rotation of the motor, a working shaft extended outside the housing, an active impact block, which can rotate with and make axial motion with respect to the main shaft, is configured on the main shaft, a passive impact block which rotates with the working shaft and can alternatively make axial motion with respect to the working shaft is mounted on the working shaft, the active impact block rotates to drive the passive impact block through the coordination of the first end tooth set on the active impact block and the second end tooth set on the passive impact block; the power tool further includes a function shifting button which can move between the first location and the second location to alternatively limit the passive impact block's axial motion with respect to the working shaft, in this way to realize the shifting between the first function and the second function of the power tool. This function shifting mechanism features simple structure, low manufacturing cost, convenient and efficient operation. |
| US08146668B2 |
Downhole tubular lifter and method of using the same
A method of raising a tubular, comprising attaching a lifter to a tubular associated with a wellbore, and operating the lifter to transmit a downward force to a subterranean formation via a surface of the wellbore formed in the subterranean formation while also operating the lifter to transmit an upward force to the tubular. A lifter for lifting a tubular associated with a wellbore comprising a securing mechanism configured to restrict movement of the securing mechanism relative to an upper tubular portion, and a piston configured to be received within a lower tubular portion and configured to promote a seal between the piston and the lower tubular portion. |
| US08146667B2 |
Dual gradient pipeline evacuation method
The method of removing a first liquid from a subsea pipeline which has a central portion lower than each of the ends of the subsea pipeline by pumping a second lower density fluid into the pipeline and the either removing the second lower density fluid by either displacing it with gas or evaporating the second lower density fluid to a gas. |
| US08146663B2 |
Seal configuration for top drive swivel apparatus and method
For use with a top drive power unit supported for connection with a well string in a well bore to selectively impart longitudinal and/or rotational movement to the well string, a feeder for supplying a pumpable substance such as cement and the like from an external supply source to the interior of the well string in the well bore without first discharging it through the top drive power unit including a mandrel extending through a sleeve which is sealably and rotatably supported thereon for relative rotation between the sleeve and mandrel. The mandrel and sleeve have flow passages for communicating the pumpable substance from an external source to discharge through the sleeve and mandrel and into the interior of the well string below the top drive power unit. The unit can include a packing injection system and novel seal configuration. |
| US08146652B2 |
Heat exchanger
A heat exchanger used as an evaporator is configured such that two heat exchange tube groups, each composed of a plurality of heat exchange tubes, are provided between a pair of header tanks, while being separated from each other in a front-rear direction. Each of the header tanks includes two header sections. Each header tank includes a first member to which the heat exchange tubes are connected, a second member which is joined to the first member and covers the side of the first member opposite the heat exchange tubes, and a partition plate disposed between the first and second members and having partition portions which divide the interiors of the two header sections into respective upper and lower spaces. Through holes are formed in the partition portions so as to establish communication between the upper and lower spaces of the header sections. |
| US08146640B2 |
Hemming system and method for hemming a fabric without using seams, by introducing an adhesively processed resilient element into one or two opposite surfaces of the fabric
A hemming system for hemming a fabric, without using seams, and by introducing an adhesively processed element into a surface or between two opposite surfaces of the fabric, comprises an adhesive applying module for applying two adhesive materials to an elastic or resilient element and to the fabric, and a second hemming module, for hemming the fabric at the resilient element. |
| US08146639B2 |
Equipment and method for manufacturing steel-plastic composite pipe
The present invention refers to a process and an apparatus for combination of steel tubes or pipes with plastic linings, in which steam is used as heat carrier to heat the steel tubes or pipes lined with linings. The apparatus comprises a multifunctional combining chamber, a multifunctional carriage for conveying tubes or pipes, an arrangement for steam circulating, which continuously supplies re-usable steam, a cooling and shaping arrangement and a controlling device. The steam circulating system comprises a furnace for re-heating the steam and means for supplying supplementing steam. The percentage of passing the qualification control is increased up to 99.9% by embodiment of the method and/or apparatus according to the present invention, while it is only 97% by a conventional apparatus, and the production capacity is increased by 15%. Thanks to the recovery and re-use of the steam in a circulating system, it will use only three tons of steam if the daily production is forty tons in a production line, and 405 RMB will be saved in a day. Thanks to the recovery and re-use of water in a circulating system, the water consumption for producing a ton steel and plastic combined tubes or pipes will be reduced by 8%. That means a remarkable economic and environmental value. The present invention will decrease the labor intensity of the workers and the cost that refers to the work time by 5%. The total cost for a ton tubes or pipes will be reduced by 10 RMB. |
| US08146637B2 |
Tire for heavy vehicles
The invention relates to a tire having a radial carcass reinforcement comprising a crown reinforcement formed of at least two working crown layers of inextensible reinforcement elements, which are crossed from one layer to the other, forming with the circumferential direction angles of between 10° and 45°, which itself is topped radially by a tread, said tread being joined to two beads by means of two sidewalls and the crown reinforcement comprising at least one layer of circumferential reinforcement elements of an axial width less than that of at least one of the working crown layers.According to the invention, the ratio of the axial width of at least one layer of circumferential reinforcement elements to the axial width of the tread is greater than 0.6, and preferably greater than 0.65, and the ratio of the axial width of the tread to the maximum axial width of the tire is strictly greater than 0.89. |
| US08146633B2 |
Pneumatic tire
In a pneumatic tire, 48%≦HB/HA≦52%, 98%≦HC/HA≦100%, 108%≦WB/WA≦115%, and 55%≦WC/WA≦75% are satisfied, where, when a line from a position A of rim height FH in tire width direction is X-axis and a line in tire radial direction via center crown CL is Y-axis, WA is distance of a half of tire base width, WB is distance from the Y-axis to a maximum width position P of a carcass layer, WC is distance from the Y-axis to an inflection point Q of the carcass layer, HA is distance from the X-axis to a peak R of the carcass layer on the center crown CL, HB is distance from the X-axis to the maximum width position P, and HC is distance from the X-axis to the inflection point Q. |
| US08146632B2 |
Tightening mechanism for anti-skid and traction enhancement devices
A tightening system (135) for use with anti-skid and traction devices for wheeled vehicles comprising a sealed tightening mechanism (130) which can clutch and ratchet the rotational movement applied by the user on a knob (212). The system further comprises at least one connection assembly (134) which is adapted to be pivotably and releasably attached to a proximal end of a surface contact member (63;71) and which is adapted to be connected to the tightening mechanism. The tightening mechanism comprises a locking component (193) which has a base plate (240), an inner sidewall (195) and an outer sidewall (194) standing perpendicular to said base plate (240). The inner sidewall recessed portion has a plurality of recess (230;231) which are adapted to engage with a peripheral projection of the upper clutch (206) for holding the knob in place during locked and unlocked positions of the knob. The outer sidewall enters fully or partly, respectively in locked and unlocked positions of the knob, into a corresponding slot (210) of said knob (212) for sealing inner volume of the tightening mechanism from outside conditions. |
| US08146627B2 |
Easy load pillbox and loading tray
Modular pillboxes that include at least one one-way passage through which pills, materials or other articles can be pushed through and into and underlying interior compartment of the modular pillboxes. The modular pillboxes include coupling structure by which the modular pillbox can be coupled to a loading tray and/or additional modular pillboxes. The modular pillboxes include lids that can be opened to access pills, materials or other articles that are loaded therein through the one-way passages. |
| US08146626B2 |
Flexible container, method and device for filling said flexible container
A flexible container has a container body with container walls that define a container interior. A container socket is connected to the container body and has a container opening through which the container interior is filled. Carrying loops are connected to the container body for lifting the container. The container socket has an initial retracted position in the container interior and is transferable from the initial retracted position into an upright filling position. The container socket is at least partially comprised of an elastically expandable material. The flexible container is filled by inserting into the container socket a filling tube, contacting with the filling tube the container socket in the initial retracted position, and transferring the container socket to the upright filling position and keeping the container socket secured on the filling tube in the upright filling position. The bulk material is introduced through the filling tube into the flexible container. |
| US08146621B2 |
Metal heald frame and heald shaft for a loom
A heddle shaft (1) with heddles (3) that are supported with little play or free of play has at least one heddle support rail (7), which is supported movably for elastically tensing the heddles (3) as a whole, or has at least one movably supported part (55). A spring means (16, 56) serves to exert a tensing force on the heddle head (5) of each heddle (3) for supporting that heddle without play. This makes a high operating speed of a power loom, provided with such a heddle shaft, possible without the heddles digging into the heddle support rails and without producing excessive noise. |
| US08146620B2 |
Non-circular pipe profile
A corrugated pipe having a non circular in cross section profile and at least one generally elongate wall section is improved by using a variable height corrugation in the length of the elongate wall segment. The variable height corrugation is of a greatest height at a center portion thereof and decreases in height towards the end points of the elongate wall segment. A spanning type truss arrangement is formed that opposes inward deflection of the straight wall segment. |
| US08146616B2 |
Drainage device for arrangement on a floor tile having a drain water aperture and arrangement of such a drainage device on a floor tile
Drainage device for arrangement on a floor tile, the drainage device, when at least partially assembled in the floor, has at least two pipe lengths moveable relative to one another in such a way that a movement of the pipe lengths relative to one another allows an aperture in the floor tile and the upper inlet aperture of the drainage device to be made to coincide at least partially with one another. At the same time the pipe lengths have flanges extending radially outwards, which are sealed against one another by seals. |
| US08146614B2 |
Beverage holder attachment for crutch
A beverage holder attachment for a crutch has an annular cup holder portion and two molded C-shaped protrusions for snapping onto two side rails of a crutch. The cup holder has a vertical slot on the outside to accommodate a handle of a mug or cup. The cup holder sits in between the two rails of the crutch below the hand bar so that it does not interfere with the use of the hand bar. The cup holder is tilted slightly to avoid spillage on the user of the crutches, so that any coffee drips will spill on the outside of the crutch. The beverage holder can be snapped onto the crutch side rails to carry beverages or other objects around the home or office while on crutches. The beverage holder can be made out of plastic, rubber or any other molded material that will snap onto the crutch. |
| US08146613B2 |
Wash chamber for surgical environment
A system and method for a surgical scrub automated cleaning station are disclosed. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station includes a rotatable, extendable, and retractable wash cylinder that is operable to accommodate any variety of arm length. More specifically, the surgical scrub automated cleaning station may include an accordion, telescoping, or otherwise adjustable cylinder to accommodate a variety of arm lengths. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station may be used to provide a surgeon or other health care personnel with a hand and forearm washing. The surgical scrub cylinder automated cleaning station may also be monitored to ensure compliance with one or more hygiene protocols. |
| US08146608B2 |
Dental floss holding structure
A dental floss holding structure includes a dental floss and two holding bodies. The two ends of the dental floss are respectively connected with a base, which includes a first coupling portion with a first positioning portion mounted thereon. Each of the two holding bodies includes a second coupling portion corresponding to the first coupling portion, and the second coupling portion has a second positioning portion corresponding to the first positioning portion, so that the dental floss and the holding bodies can be stably fixed with each other through the engagement between the first and the second positioning portions. Accordingly, when the user's hands hold the two holding bodies to clean the teeth slits, the fingers can be kept out of the mouth without entering the mouth, which not only provides convenience but also assures the hygiene. |
| US08146604B2 |
Fluid delivery device
A fluid delivery device includes an accumulator, a deformable fluid reservoir, a user-actuated valve, a fluid delivery channel and an application element. The accumulator accumulates pressure and houses the fluid reservoir. The fluid delivery channel couples the fluid reservoir on a proximal end and extends to a distal end. A user-actuated valve controls a flow rate of fluid passing through the fluid delivery channel from the fluid reservoir to the distal end in response to pressure in the accumulator being above a predetermined threshold. The application element is coupled to the distal end of the fluid delivery channel to facilitate dispersal of fluid from the fluid delivery channel. |
| US08146603B2 |
Method for ablating body tissue
A tissue ablation system for treating fibrillation in a patient comprises a steerable interventional catheter having an energy source that emits a beam of energy to ablate tissue thereby creating a conduction block for aberrant electrical pathways. The system also includes a handle disposed near a proximal end of the interventional catheter and has an actuation mechanism for steering the interventional catheter. A console allows the system to be controlled and provides power to the system, and a display pod is electrically coupled with the console. The display pod has a display panel to display system information to a user and allows the user to control the system. A catheter pod is releasably coupled with the handle electrically and mechanically, and also electrically coupled with the display pod. |
| US08146602B2 |
Method and mixture for nerve root repair
The invention provides a method of functionally connecting a portion of the peripheral nervous system of a vertebrate to a portion of the central or peripheral nervous system of said vertebrate, comprising the steps of bringing the portion of the peripheral nervous system and the portion of the central or peripheral nervous system close to each other, applying to the gap between the two portions a fibrin glue mixture comprising a growth factor, fibrinogen, aprotinin and divalent calcium ions so that the fibrin glue mixture is simultaneously in contact with the two portions, and forming an attachment between the portion of the peripheral nervous system and the portion of the central or peripheral nervous system of said vertebrate. |
| US08146599B2 |
Patient positioning system
A system for positioning a patient on a treatment couchtop for SBRT is provided. The system includes a patient support panel and at least one positioning/fixation component for releasable mounting on the patient support panel at a desired position to immobilize a portion of the patient's body. The patient support panel includes a pair of longitudinally extending side rails having a series of longitudinally spaced indexing apertures for receipt of a locking bar for mounting a positioning/fixation component thereon at a discrete index position. The at least one positioning component includes a pair of clamping mechanisms for releasably securing that component to the side rails at any longitudinal position along the side rails. |
| US08146598B2 |
Medical device tube having a flange with opposing support ears for improved alignment and retention of an inner cannula in an outer cannula
A medical device tube having opposing support ears for improved coupling of an inner cannula to an outer cannula. The medical device tube comprises an outer cannula having opposing support ears on an outer cannula connector flange attached to a proximal end of the outer cannula. The opposing support ears maintain locking ears of the inner cannula in substantially one position. The opposing support ears substantially prevent the locking ears in contact with the outer cannula connector flange from slipping therefrom by, e.g., rotation, axial displacement, torsional shear, etc. |
| US08146595B2 |
Adjustable patient interface for a breathing assistance system
An adjustable patient interface for a breathing assistance system may include a shell portion and a cushion portion. The shell portion may include one or more shell connection portions. The cushion portion may include a face contacting portion configured to contact a patient's face, and an adjustment portion including one or more cushion connection portions. Each cushion connection portion may correspond to a region of the face contacting portion. Each cushion connection portion may be configured to interact with a corresponding shell connection portion such that a particular cushion connection portion may be manually adjusted relative to a particular shell connection portion to adjust the distance between a region of the face contacting portion corresponding to the particular cushion connection portion and the shell portion. |
| US08146593B2 |
Process and device for separating carbon dioxide from a breathing gas mixture by means of a fixed site carrier membrane
A process and a device are provided for separating carbon dioxide from a breathing gas mixture by means of a “Fixed Site Carrier” membrane. The breathing gas mixture is guided in the device on a side of a selective, semipermeable membrane, which is provided with amine groups, which are bound covalently to a polymer. Through the membrane, the transport of the components of the gas mixture can take place. The membrane is selected to be such that the permeability for CO2 is substantially higher than the permeability for the other gas components of the breathing gas mixture. The membrane has or is associated with means for guiding the gas, which acts to guide the gas mixture on one side along the membrane. The membrane separates volume areas in which different CO2 partial pressures prevail from one another. |
| US08146590B2 |
Humidification system for breathing circuit
There is provided a humidification system for a breathing circuit that can detect abnormality in flow of intake air inside an inspiration tube. A humidification section is arranged inside an inspiration tube of a breathing circuit. Further, the humidification system is constructed capable of supplying moisture into intake air flowing inside the inspiration tube by using, for example, hydrophobic hollow fibers or a hydrophobic membrane. The flow section comprises a supply section for supplying moisture to the humidification section and a delivery section for delivering moisture that has been supplied to the humidification section. The control section detects intake air abnormality using difference information for water temperature of the supply section and water temperature of the delivery section. |
| US08146586B2 |
Liquid ejection cartridge and liquid ejection device
Provided are a liquid ejection cartridge and a liquid ejection device each having a simple structure capable of surely mixing a plurality of liquids. An example of the liquid ejection cartridge includes a liquid ejection portion (12) for ejecting a liquid; a first liquid storage portion (3) which is separated from the liquid ejection portion (12) through a film (10); a second liquid storage portion (4) which is separated from the first liquid storage portion (3) through a film (9). Further, the liquid ejection cartridge further includes a first penetrating member (8) for penetrating the film (10) which separates the liquid ejection portion (12) and the first liquid storage portion (3); and a second penetrating member (7) for penetrating the film (9) which separates the first liquid storage portion (3) and the second liquid storage portion (4). |
| US08146573B2 |
EGR device for engine
It is intended to provide an EGR device for an engine in which a cooling structure such as an EGR cooler is not required and which reduces Nox contained in the exhaust gas in the whole operation areas, so as to correspond to recent exhaust gas regulation. An EGR device 30 for an engine comprises an EGR pipe 14 for continuously connecting an exhaust manifold 4 and an intake manifold 3 of an engine 1, an EGR valve 9 for controlling a passage area of the EGR pipe 14, an ECU 6 for controlling the EGR valve 9. The EGR device 30 further comprises a bypass passage 24 for bypassing the EGR valve 9 and a restrictor 25 is installed in the bypass passage 24. |
| US08146570B2 |
Fuel system for vehicle with engine
A fuel system for a vehicle with an engine includes: a fuel tank for storing fuel: first and second ports disposed on a wall of the fuel tank, between which wall and a fuel fluid level a clearance is created when the fuel is contained in an allowable maximal amount in the fuel tank of the vehicle in a horizontal state, the first and second ports being positioned frontward and rearward, respectively, in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and the first port and the second port being out of alignment in a lateral direction; a canister for adsorbing and releasing a fuel vapor; an inflow line for sending the fuel vapor generated in the fuel tank to the canister through the first and second ports; and a discharge line for sending the fuel vapor from the canister to an air-intake path to the engine. |
| US08146569B2 |
Control systems and methods for newly assembled engines
An engine control system for a vehicle comprises a combustion control module and an engine startup module. The combustion control module selectively controls a spark timing and airflow into an engine based on a counter value. The engine startup module, when the counter value is one of greater than and less than a predetermined final value, controls an equivalence ratio (EQR) of an air/fuel mixture provided to the engine during an engine cranking period based on a fuel rail pressure and controls the EQR during an engine running period based on the fuel rail pressure and an engine runtime period. The counter value is set to the predetermined final value after the engine is started for a first time after the engine is assembled. |
| US08146564B2 |
Engine intake air flow control assembly
An engine assembly may include a cylinder head, an intake manifold assembly, first and second vanes, and an actuation mechanism. The first and second vanes may be rotatably coupled to the intake manifold assembly. The first vane may be located within an outlet of a first intake passage and the second vane may be located within an outlet of a second intake passage. The first and second vanes may be displaceable from an open position to a closed position. The first vane may extend along a wall defining the first intake passage when in the open position and the second vane may extend along a wall defining the second intake passage when in the open position. The actuation mechanism may be coupled to the first and second vanes to rotate the first and second vanes between the open and closed positions. |
| US08146563B2 |
Internal combustion engine with high squish piston
A piston crown for a diesel engine in which the crown has an annular recess coaxial with an injector injecting fuel in a radiated, non-swirl pattern. The recess has an internal central crown portion approximately parallel to the angle of the fuel injected and a curved outer section to curve air compressed by the piston significantly enough that it is directed back toward the central axis and mixes with the fuel injected along the internal central crown portion to promote mixing and reduction in soot formation. |
| US08146560B2 |
Multi-part piston for an internal combustion engine and method for its production
The present invention relates to a multi-part piston (10, 110) for an internal combustion engine, having an upper piston part (11, 111) having a piston crown (13), and a lower piston part (12), whereby the lower piston part (12) has pin boss supports (32) and pin bosses (18) connected with them, whereby the upper piston part (11) and the lower piston part (12) each have an inner (21, 25) and an outer (22, 26) support element, which elements delimit an outer circumferential cooling channel (29). According to the invention, it is provided that the inner support elements (21, 25) delimit a cavity (31) that is open toward the pin bosses (18), and that the cavity (31) is provided with a separate cooling oil collector (35, 135) that has at least one cooling oil opening (37, 38). The present invention furthermore relates to a method for the production of such a piston. |
| US08146559B2 |
Vehicle hybridization system
A vehicle control system is programmed to stop the vehicle's internal combustion engine upon certain conditions including the vehicle being stopped and engine temperature having reached a minimum operating level. On vehicles equipped with air brakes and having an engine driven air compressor, engine restarts are provided by an air pressure supported hydraulic motor once triggered by operator actions such as releasing the brake and/or depressing the vehicle's accelerator indicative of the driver's intention to move the vehicle. |
| US08146553B2 |
Spark plug for an internal combustion engine and method for the operation thereof
A spark plug for an internal combustion engine having a light guide device for supplying the spark plug with optical radiant power. A sensor arrangement is at least partially integrated into the spark plug but disposed outside the light guide device, and is embodied for the acquisition of operating data of the spark plug and/or of a combustion chamber associated with the spark plug. |
| US08146551B2 |
Concentric cam with phaser
An assembly for an engine comprising at least one phaser and a camshaft assembly. The camshaft assembly has an outer camshaft piece and an inner camshaft piece. The outer camshaft piece includes an outside cam integrally attached to the housing of the phaser through a middle portion. The outer camshaft piece also defines a hollow extending a length. The inner camshaft piece includes an inner cam adjacent to the outer cam. A tube portion extends from a first side of the inner cam and is received by the hollow of the outer camshaft piece, connecting the inner cam to the rotor of the phaser. A shaft portion extends to an end portion from the other side of the outer cam. A passage, connected to an inlet line is present within the inner camshaft piece, directing fluid to the control valve of the phaser. |
| US08146549B2 |
Feeder for a camshaft adjuster
A feeder for a camshaft adjuster is provided, including a central screw, a camshaft, and at least one flow resistance element. The camshaft is provided with a bore for accommodating the central screw. A channel is located between the camshaft and the central screw, in which the flow resistance element is provided in order to affect a flow of a fluid in the channel. |
| US08146548B2 |
Continuously variable valve lift device and operation logic thereof
A continuously variable valve lift device may include a vibration link having one end eccentrically and rotatably coupled to a rotation shaft, a rocker arm having a middle portion pivotally coupled to the other end of the vibration link, an advance lever having one end coupled to the one end of the rocker arm to select advance or delay, a swivel cam link having one end pivotally coupled to the other end of the rocker arm, and a swivel cam, one end of which is pivotally coupled to the other end of the swivel cam link and the other end of which is pivotally coupled to a stationary shaft to open and close a valve. |
| US08146545B2 |
Filter for a crankcase ventilation system
An oil-collecting can (500) for a filter cartridge (300) comprises a plurality of capillary ribs (530) that are sized and shaped to contact filter media in the outlet chamber. The oil-collecting can (500) can be used in conjunction with a filter cartridge (300), which is installed in a filter assembly to encourage the downward flow of oil droplets. Such a filter assembly could be used, for example, in a crankcase ventilation system, to remove particulates and other contaminants from piston-bypass fumes. |
| US08146544B2 |
Engine cylinder head cooling features and method of forming
A method of forming a cylinder head includes casting the cylinder head to include an integral cast-in exhaust manifold. The integral cast-in exhaust manifold defines an intermediate exhaust gas passage in fluid communication with exhaust ports and an exhaust gas outlet passage in fluid communication with the intermediate exhaust gas passage. The cast cylinder head includes a coolant cavity to receive a cooling fluid. The coolant cavity includes first and second portions extending around an outer circumference of the exhaust gas outlet passage separated from one another by a first cast-in wall. The method further includes machining the first cast-in wall to provide fluid communication between the first and second portions of the coolant cavity. Machining the first cast-in wall forms a first coolant passage created by the first and second portions of the coolant cavity and the machined passage around the outer circumference of the exhaust gas outlet passage. |
| US08146541B2 |
Method for improving transient engine operation
A method for operating an engine with a fuel reformer is presented. In one embodiment a method for operating an engine by injecting a gaseous fuel and a liquid fuel to at least an engine cylinder is presented. The mixture of an engine cylinder may be diluted with EGR and a fraction of gaseous fuel may be increased relative to a fraction of liquid fuel injected to a cylinder in response to an operator tip-out. |
| US08146540B2 |
Continuous steam generator
The invention relates to a continuous steam generator comprising a surrounding wall which forms a gas draught and whose lower section is configured from gas-tight evaporator tubes that are welded together and whose upper section is configured from gas-tight superheater tubes that are welded together. According to the invention, superheater tubes are connected downstream of the evaporator tubes on the flow medium side by means of a water separator system. The aim of the invention is to provide a system with particularly high degree of operational flexibility even in the start-up and off-peak periods, while keeping the production and installation expenditure relatively low. To achieve this, the water separator system comprises a large number of water separator elements, each of which is connected downstream or upstream of less than ten evaporator tubes, preferably one tube and/or less than ten superheater tubes, preferably one tube on the flow medium side. |
| US08146538B2 |
Airborne interactive cat treat or toy
An aerodynamically interactive artifact is proportioned to experience at least one of tumbling, fluttering, and autorotating motion when subjected to free fall in a gravitational field. Suitable shapes include films, strips, butterflies, birds, and the like. The artifact may be contain a nutraceutical, may be dissolvable in pet saliva, and may provide an olfactory sensation for a pet. Dimensionless parameters such as Froude number and length-to-thickness ratios may be used to select aerodynamically interactive motions. |
| US08146535B1 |
Thermally controlled drinking water system for animals
A thermally controlled drinking water system for animals having a thermally insulated cabinet containing a water reservoir, a water bowl, a vapor-compression refrigeration water-cooling system, and an electric water heating system, maintains the drinking water at an optimal temperature in both hot weather and freezing weather conditions. The reservoir stores at least five days of water and automatically maintains the water bowl in a constantly filled condition through a water supply conduit and visual indicator indicates when the reservoir water level is getting low. The evaporator coil of the cooling system is engaged with the water bowl in heat exchange relation and electrical heating elements are engaged in heat exchange relation with the water bowl and reservoir. Cooling and heating operations are controlled by an ambient air temperature sensor on the cabinet exterior and a water temperature sensor on the side wall of the water bowl. |
| US08146532B2 |
Automatic milking apparatus for laboratory animals
An automatic milking apparatus for laboratory animals that can facilitate and stabilize the positioning of a teat cup 20 is provided for full automation of a milking operation. An end of a first milk tube 12 attached to a teat cup 20 for laboratory animals is attached to a free end of a flexible arm A having one end fixed to a suitable base (milk collecting container stand B). The flexible arm A includes a laminated body 40 including a long member 41 formed of a material that is flexible and after being flexed, can maintain the shape (for example, a lead plate) and a steel plate member 42, the laminated body 40 being coated by a coating member 50, the members being in contact with each other in such a manner that they slip relative to each other upon being flexed in their entirety, the flexible arm A including a secured part 53 formed at the one end, the secured part 53 preventing relative movement of the respective members. The tip of the flexible arm A is not displaced after being positioned. |
| US08146530B2 |
Cluster tool architecture for processing a substrate
Embodiments generally provide an apparatus and method for processing substrates using a multi-chamber processing system (e.g., a cluster tool) that has an increased system throughput, increased system reliability, substrates processed in the cluster tool have a more repeatable wafer history, and also the cluster tool has a smaller system footprint. Embodiments also provide for a method and apparatus that are used to improve the coater chamber, the developer chamber, the post exposure bake chamber, the chill chamber, and the bake chamber process results. Embodiments also provide for a method and apparatus that are used to increase the reliability of the substrate transfer process to reduce system down time. |
| US08146529B2 |
Liquid application apparatus and printing apparatus
There is provided a liquid application apparatus capable of performing stable application without providing a new mechanism, by efficiently removing an application liquid increased in viscosity and fixedly adhered to an abutting portion between an application member and a liquid supplying member. A liquid application apparatus includes an application member that applies a liquid supplied to an applied face to a printing medium by rotating an application roller and a liquid holding member that abuts against the applied face to form a liquid holding space for holding the liquid, and the amount of liquid that is held in the liquid holding space and makes contact with the application member in unit time is larger before an applying operation for applying the liquid to the printing medium than in the applying operation. |
| US08146524B1 |
Seating arrangement for a vehicle
A straddle seat has a top portion having a rear portion and a front portion. Two side portions extend downwardly from the top portion. The front portion extends upwardly and forwardly from the rear portion. The front portion is hourglass shaped and has a narrowing. The front portion has a pair of lateral wings extending laterally outwardly above at least part of the two side portions for covering at least in part knees and thighs of a driver. A personal watercraft having such a straddle seat is also described. The personal watercraft has a helm assembly and footrests having middle sections disposed rearwardly of the helm assembly. Front sections extend upwardly and forwardly from the middle sections forming a first angle. Rear sections extend upwardly and rearwardly from the middle sections forming a second angle. The first angle is greater than the second angle. |
| US08146523B2 |
Circular stitching device for sewing machine
A circular stitching device for a sewing machine includes a body base attachable to a sewing bed or an upper surface of a needle plate, a movable base located on the body base so as to be movable in a predetermined direction, a cloth fixing member including a cloth-fixing pin which is passable through a workpiece cloth and is formed with an engagement portion, and a holder holding a proximal end of the cloth-fixing pin, a cloth-fixing pin support detachably attachable to the movable base thereby to support the cloth fixing member so that the cloth fixing member is detachably attachable thereto, and a locking unit which is located on the cloth-fixing pin support and is disengageably engageable with the engagement portion of the cloth-fixing pin, thereby locking the cloth-fixing pin. |
| US08146522B2 |
Apparatus for forward and backward movement of sewing machine
Forward and backward movement apparatus for main body of sewing machine according to this invention comprises, in sewing machine comprising Main Body movable forward and backward and supported on both sides of a Base and Heads movable left and right and supported on the Main Body; Frame mounted on the Base; Timing Gears installed in the front and rear Fixed Frame of the Frame in multiple rows; Connecting Shat which connects Timing Gears beneath Front Fixed Frame; Forward and Backward Movement Frames is movable forward and backward on the Frame and connected to the Main Body; Rollers are installed in the Forward and Backward Movement Frames in multiple rows to correspond to the Timing Gears; Timing Belt which zigzags through Timing Gear and Roller and Timing Gear and Roller, and both ends of which are connected to the top of Front and Rear Fixed Frames; and electric motor which drives the Connecting Shat in forward and reverse directions. |
| US08146517B1 |
Platform elements with integral storage
A platform element that is connectable to a secondary structure using a clip that is adapted to be installed in a storage position or a use position with respect to the platform element. The platform element includes a substantially planar panel and at least one upstanding wall that extends generally downward from the panel and is adapted to space the panel from an external support surface. The clip is adapted to connect the upstanding wall to the secondary structure when the clip is in the use position. A receptacle is formed on an underside of the panel. The receptacle is adapted to engage the clip to maintain the clip in a fixed position with respect to the panel when the clip is in the storage position. |
| US08146515B2 |
Slip sheet for transporting goods
A slip sheet for use with unitized loads has a plurality of banding anchors. The banding anchors extend from an edge of the slip sheet or from a portion of the slip sheet tab. The banding anchors may be provided on one, two, three, or four edges of the slip sheet. The banding anchors may be folded up against the side of a unitized load to provide a place for packaging bands to engage the slip sheet. Portions of at least one slip tray sidewall are separated from the remaining sidewall to form flaps that may be folded down to function as tabs that help lift vehicles get under the slip tray. |
| US08146507B2 |
Laser-welded crane rail for suspended crabs
Disclosed is a crane rail made from a roll-formed steel sheet strip. Said crane rail altogether comprises a top flange and a bottom flange. A support flange that has a triangular cross-section is additionally embodied on the top flange. The edges of the steel strip are laser-welded to the web. |
| US08146503B2 |
Linear shaped charge system
A linear charge system (100) for applying a destructive explosive charge to a barrier structure; said system comprising a charge carrier (101) and an explosive charge element (120) assembled within said charge carrier (101); said explosive charge element (120) adapted to effect a directed explosive charge for the penetration of a said barrier in which a tamping fluid forms at least a portion of a penetrating agent. |
| US08146502B2 |
Combustible cartridge cased ammunition assembly
A combustible cartridge assembly is described. The assembly of one embodiment includes a projectile, a body having a first end portion coupled to the projectile and a second end portion opposite the first end portion. The body is made of a combustible material configured to be consumed upon firing the ammunition round assembly. A sleeve is at least partially contained within the base. The sleeve has a free end portion radially to adjacent to and coupled to the second end portion of the body. The sleeve and the body defines an interior area configured to contain a combustible propellant. A non-combustible base at least partially is coupled to the sleeve and is adjacent to the second end portion of the body. |
| US08146501B1 |
Supercavitating projectile having a morphable nose
A supercavitating projectile having a nose that is capable of morphing its shape or length for extended operating range is disclosed. |
| US08146500B2 |
Multifunctional detonation system
Explosive apparatus has at least two cuboid moldings, which each includes at least one firing hole and explosive, and whose edge lengths have a ratio of substantially 1:2:4, and a container including an internal area having a square outline and at least one aperture hole to the internal area, the internal area having a side length corresponding at least approximately to a longest edge length of the moldings and a height corresponding at least approximately to a shortest edge length of the moldings or to an integer multiple thereof, wherein the moldings are placed in the internal area of the container such that the at least one firing hole in one of the at least two moldings is aligned with the at least one aperture hole in the container, the aperture hole being intended for insertion of an explosive capsule into the firing hole of the corresponding molding. |
| US08146499B2 |
Method and system for activating the charge of a munition, munition fitted with a high precision activation device and target neutralisation system
This invention relates to a method and a system for activating a munition charge. It also relates to a munition fitted with a high precision activation device. Finally, it relates to a system for neutralization of a target.A laser beam (21) is used for illuminating an object (3) located close to the target (X), firing of the charge (23) of the munition being activated using detection by the munition of the laser spot (24) reflected by the object (3). Firing is activated at a time t1 after the time t0 at which the laser spot (24) is detected.The invention is applicable particularly to hit hidden targets for which a direct impact with these targets is not necessary. |
| US08146493B2 |
Ink fountain of a printing press, ink fountain roll and printing press
An ink fountain of a printing press includes a component having a bearing face for bearing printing ink and cells made in the bearing face. An ink fountain roll for an ink fountain of a printing press and a printing press having an ink fountain, are also provided. |
| US08146489B2 |
System for transporting and/or washing and/or pasteurisation thermal treatment of foodstuffs, particularly leaf products
The present invention relates to a system for transporting and/or washing and/or pasteurization thermal treatment of foodstuffs, particularly leaf products comprising at least a treatment section. The treatment section can be comprised of one or more sections of rectilinear tubes and one or more corresponding curved tube sections, wherein products within the treatment section being conveyed by a fluid, such as water, flowing along the tubes. |
| US08146478B2 |
Mine resistant armored vehicle
In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a blast-resistant armored land vehicle. Wheels or tracks may be attached to the vehicle by an independent suspension. The vehicle may include a body comprised of sheet materials, the body having a longitudinal centerline, an upper portion including opposite side portions, a first bottom portion defining a V, with the apex of the V substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and extending along a portion of the vehicle, and a second bottom portion defining a V, with the apex of the V substantially parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the vehicle and extending along another portion of the vehicle. The first bottom portion further includes an energy-absorbing member extending longitudinally within an interior of the first bottom portion. The energy-absorbing member may be on the inside of the apex of the V and be held in position during the blast by its own inertia. The vehicle may also include a spine member having a V shaped cross section and extending along the entire length of the vehicle. All or a portion of the engine, transmission, and drive train assembly may be within the spine member. A vehicle not having a second bottom portion may be retrofitted with the second bottom portion by way of a kit. |
| US08146475B1 |
System and method for forming shaped grooves in an airport runway
A method of cutting grooves having a trapezoidal profile into an airport runway. Each of the grooves has a base of a first width, an open top of a second width and sloped sidewalls. The grooves are cut by the single pass of a rotating blade. The blade used to cut the trapezoidal shaped grooves has a plurality of cutting teeth. Each of the cutting teeth has a wide body section, a face surface, a bottom surface and side surfaces that extend from the face surface to the wide body section. The wide body section has a width equal to the maximum width of the groove being cut. However, the face surface has a width equal to the minimum width of the groove being cut. The result is a cutting tooth that cuts smoothly and maintains its trapezoidal shape as it wears. |
| US08146474B2 |
Wood cutting saw chain and replaceable cutting members
A quick change cutting link of a saw chain for cutting wood comprises a base member adapted to be pivotally connected to other links of the saw chain. The base member comprises a seat surface. A cutting member comprising a “V” notch releasably engages the seat surface of the base member. Attached to the “V” notch is a carbide tip, including a cutting edge. The carbide tip is accurately placed in the “V” notch by mating with a small piece of metal in the “V” notch. The carbide tip is then sinterbrazed to the cutting member. The cutting member and seat surface may also comprise an inverted L-shaped protrusion and the other includes an inverted L-shaped recess for receiving the inverted L-shaped protrusion. The inverted L-shaped protrusion and recess may be designed so as to form a wedge. |
| US08146472B2 |
Paper cutting device having receiving part
A paper cutting device, for cutting multiple sheets of paper stacked in layers on a table, comprises a paper retainer (2) descending from an upper side along a guide and a cutter (3) diagonally ascending from the lower side. A receiving part (18) is mounted on the lower surface of a paper retaining frame (20). The receiving part (18) is formed by joining a base plate (36) with a large elastic modulus such as a metal to a resin receiving plate (37). A slip prevention structure is installed on the junction surfaces of the base plate (36) and the receiving plate (37) to suppress the extension/retraction of the receiving part of the paper retainer so as to prevent wrinkles from occurring in the paper near a blade receiving surface when the paper is cut off. |
| US08146470B2 |
Die stamping system
A die stamping system includes an upper die, a sliding block, a lower stripper, a die holder connected to the lower stripper, and a lower die-set moveably connected to the die holder. The sliding block includes a body with a wedge-shaped head facing down, a punch connected to the body, and two arms on opposite sides of the body, respectively. The lower stripper matches the upper die-set and has an aperture for passage of the punch therethrough. The die holder is connected to the lower stripper and includes an opening for passage of the body therethrough, and a first notch receiving the two arms. The first notch is larger than the arms. The lower die-set is movably connected to the die holder and includes a wedge-shaped padding block facing up and supporting the wedge-shaped head of the body. |
| US08146464B2 |
Machine tool and workpiece inner surface machining method using the machine tool
To provide a machine tool not only capable of machining an inner surface of a workpiece into a spherical surface but also capable of machining a bearing surface including a flat surface and machining the combination of a spherical surface and a flat surface, and to provide a workpiece inner surface machining method using the machine tool. A machine tool includes: a workpiece holding mechanism 3 holding the workpiece 21; a tool 20 having a supporting member 22 and a cutting tool 23 which is supported to be pivotable about a pivot axis b located on a plane perpendicular to an axis a of the supporting member 22 and has a cutting edge 23a at least at one end; an axial feed mechanism 6a rotating the supporting member 22 about the axis a and moving the supporting member 22 in a direction of the axis a; a pivot driving mechanism 31 pivoting the cutting tool 23 about the pivot axis b; and a machining control mechanism controlling a pivot angle θ of the cutting tool 23 decided by the pivot driving mechanism 31 and a rotation speed and a position in the axis a direction of the supporting member 22 decided by the axial feed mechanism 6a, so as to make a machining point P by the cutting edge 23a move along a desired machining line. |
| US08146463B2 |
Screw driver
A screw driver capable of avoiding co-rotation of an end bit and a motor in case of sharp shooting the end bit with a groove in a head of a screw. A co-rotation preventing mechanism is engageable with an end bit mounting portion when the end bit mounting portion is at a frontward position to prevent the end bit mounting portion from being rotated in the forward direction and to allow the end bit mounting portion to rotate in the reverse direction. The preventing mechanism is disengageable from the end bit mounting portion when the end bit mounting portion is at the rearward position to allow the end bit mounting portion to rotate in both forward and reverse directions. |
| US08146461B1 |
Tool extension rod
A tool extension rod which is adapted to be connected to or disconnected from a socket essentially comprises a rod body, a positioning unit, and a pushing sleeve. If the socket is connected to the rod body and fixed by the positioning unit, the pushing sleeve can be pushed to control the positioning unit so as to loosen and remove the socket from the rod body without any additional manual operation. |
| US08146460B2 |
Nail ripper
The invention is a tool for lifting building materials, such as shingles, while extracting nails that fastened those materials. The slots that grip the nails are a concatenation of overlapping holes, for smooth insertion of the tool past the nails, and the envelope of the tool is a surface of curves for smooth insertion of the tool under the building materials. The bottom surface is a rocker that provides a moving fulcrum for prying out the nail, giving maximum force when the nail is first gripped and smoothly moving to maximum speed of extraction as the fulcrum moves back towards the user. |
| US08146459B2 |
Opener for plastic bottle twist caps
A device for enabling the unscrewing of a cap from a bottle or jar is disclosed. The device is in the form of a somewhat elongated body in which a releasably engageable cam member and a torsion spring are located. The body is arranged to be grasped by a user of the device. The body includes a pair of cavities, each arranged for receipt of a cap of a bottle or jar therein. The cam member has a pair of ridged or serrated surfaces which are normally biased into the cavities by the spring to releasably engage a portion of the periphery of a cap disposed within either cavity. |
| US08146458B2 |
Locking differential having improved torque capacity
A locking differential for an automotive vehicle including a housing and a differential mechanism supported in the housing. The differential mechanism includes a pair of clutch members disposed in spaced axial relationship with respect to each other wherein each clutch member includes a groove disposed in an opposed inwardly directing face that is adapted to receive a cross pin. Each of the grooves includes a working surface extending laterally relative to each other. Each of the working surfaces defines a screw involute surface such that the cross pin contacts the working surface along a line extending in the direction of the cross pin in the event of differential rotation of an axle half shaft relative to the housing. Alternatively, each of the working surfaces defines a slightly convex surface in one plane such that the cross pin contacts the working surface at a point defined thereon. In another embodiment, the working surface defines a slightly convex surface in two planes such that the cross pin contacts the working surface at a point defined thereon. |
| US08146455B2 |
Reverse clip cap terminal connector
A fitting for a terminal connection in a core-adjuster assembly has a generally annular isolator with a generally central bore defining a connector pin socket and a reverse clip cap socket, and a reverse clip cap configured to be received substantially concentrically by the reverse clip cap socket of the isolator and defining a connector pin end socket. |
| US08146453B2 |
Motion guide device
A motion guide device is provided which comprises a chain of rollers in which retainers are interposed, in which the chain of rollers is given a degree of freedom of rotation. The motion guide device comprises a track member (5) on which a roller rolling part (5a) is formed which allows rollers (7) to roll on along the roller rolling part; a moving member (6) on which a loaded roller rolling part (6a) facing the roller rolling part (5a) is formed; a plurality of rollers (7) arranged on a roller circulation path containing a loaded roller rolling path (9) formed between the roller rolling part (5a) of the track member (5) and the roller rolling part (6a) of the moving member (6); and a plurality of retainers (8) respectively interposed between rollers of the plurality of rollers (7). The plurality of retainers (8) are mutually separated, each of the retainers (8) which is divided into a first divided member (31) contacting one roller of a pair of rollers (7) with each retainer (8) sandwiched therebetween and a second divided member (32) contacting the other roller (7) of the pair of rollers, and the first divided member (31) is allowed to rotate relative to the second divided member (32). |
| US08146450B2 |
Sensor mount, in particular for mounting inter-vehicle distance sensors on vehicle components
A sensor mount (10), in particular for mounting inter-vehicle distance sensors on vehicle components, has a receptacle (12) for a sensor, wherein the receptacle has an axially front side, in the region of which the active surface of the sensor is located when the sensor is inserted into the mount, and a rear side which faces away from the front side (16). The mount comprises a cover (20) with which the rear side (16) of the receptacle (12) is covered or can be covered when a sensor is present in the mount (10) in order to attenuate sensor signals which are emitted in the rear direction and/or in order to attenuate reflection signals coming from the rear direction. |
| US08146444B2 |
Ultra filtration system for on-line analyzer
The present invention relates to a system for pretreating a test sample in order to analyze a test sample containing suspended solids in an on-line analyzer can, and more particularly to an ultra filtration system for an on-line analyzer for filtering suspended solids in order to stably quantitatively analyze a test sample containing a large amount of suspended solids using a module-type hollow fiber membrane filter intake system in an online analyzer. The ultra filtration system according to the present invention may be useful to obtain a reliable analysis result of a test sample using a filtered water in the field of environments, foods, chemistry, microorganisms, etc. by continuously separating solids from a liquid test sample containing a large amount of the solids and optimizing the test sample, in order to analyze the test sample in an on-line analyzer, and also to sense and swiftly respond to the real-time change in process and to minimize unnecessary manpower wastes, for example, extending a life span of an on-line analyzer, and maintaining, examining and correcting the analyzer, etc. |
| US08146440B2 |
Stress sensor and assembly method thereof
A stress sensor includes a circuit board having a stress sensitive structure, a pointing stick and a metallic back plate. The stress sensitive structure includes a stress deformation region and multiple resistors located on the stress deformation region. The pointing stick is disposed on a top of the circuit board and connected to the stress sensitive structure. The metallic back plate includes at least one fixing material coating region, and thus the fixing edges of the circuit board are fixed on the corresponding fixing material coating region. An assembly method for the stress sensor is also provided. |
| US08146436B2 |
Silicon sensing structure to detect through-plane motion in a plane of material with thermal expansion substantially different from that of silicon
A pressure transducer is provided that has a transducer body with a rim, a diaphragm that deflects in response to pressure and a sensor bonded to the diaphragm at the rim and at a center of the diaphragm. The sensor detects deflection of the metal diaphragm. The sensor and diaphragm are made of different materials. A thermal expansion difference between the sensor and the diaphragm is accommodated by flexures in the sensor that accept relative motion in a radial direction of the metal diaphragm with little effect on a sensitivity of the silicon structure to motion in an axial direction of the diaphragm. |
| US08146430B2 |
Method and apparatus for conveying an ultrasonic sensor about an outer peripheral surface of a tube
A method & apparatus for conveying an ultrasonic sensor about an outer peripheral surface of a tube to perform a non-destructive evaluation thereof is disclosed. The ultrasonic sensor is mounted on a flexible tension link and the method involves extending the flexible tension link while urging an extended portion of the flexible tension link towards the outer peripheral surface of the tube at a plurality of locations along it's length, thereby causing the ultrasonic sensor to move through an arc in a direction circumferentially around the tube while maintaining ultrasonic coupling between the ultrasonic sensor and the tube. |
| US08146422B2 |
High precision sensing for parameter measurement of the muscular-skeletal system
A measurement system for capturing a transit time, phase, or frequency of energy waves propagating through a propagation medium is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a compressible waveguide (403), ultrasonic transducers (405, 406), and circuitry to sustain energy wave propagation in the waveguide (403). The circuitry includes a propagation tuned oscillator (404), a digital counter (409), a pulse generator (410), a phase detector (414), a counter (420), a digital timer (422), and a data register (424). The measurement system employs a continuous mode (CM), pulse mode, or pulse-echo mode of operation to evaluate propagation characteristics of continuous ultrasonic waves in the waveguide by way of closed-loop feedback to determine levels of applied forces on the waveguide. |
| US08146421B2 |
Method and apparatus for sensing levels of insoluble fluids
A method and apparatus for sensing levels of insoluble fluids within a storage vessel utilizing an array of main capacitive sensors having differing geometries. The array of main capacitive sensors gives the ability to measure the levels of insoluble liquids in a vessel. Each of the main capacitive sensors include at least one pair of conductive plates capable of submersion in the at least two insoluble fluids, and the geometries of the pair of conductive plates differ and are distinct, such as in distance or in width, in each of the main capacitive sensors. In addition, the apparatus and method may include at least one reference sensor placed intermittently along the height of the vessel to provide input as to the permittivities of the insoluble fluids. |
| US08146416B2 |
Methods and apparatus to perform stress testing of geological formations
Example methods and apparatus to perform stress testing of geological formations are disclosed. A disclosed example downhole stress test tool for pressure testing a geological formation comprises first and second packers selectively inflatable to form an annular region around the tool, a container configured to store a fracturing fluid, wherein the fracturing fluid is different than a formation fluid and a drilling fluid, a pump configured to pump the fracturing fluid into the first and second packers to inflate the first and second packers and to pump the fracturing fluid into the annular region to induce a fracture of the geological formation, and a sensor configured to detect a pressure of the fracturing fluid pumped into the annular region corresponding to the fracture of the geological formation. |
| US08146414B2 |
Material withdrawal apparatus and methods of regulating material inventory in one or more units
Material withdrawal apparatus and methods and systems of regulating material inventory in one or more units are provided. A material withdrawal apparatus includes a heat exchanger and a sensor. The heat exchanger includes a material inlet, material outlet, cooling fluid inlet, and cooling fluid outlet. The material inlet is coupled to the unit and the sensor is coupled to the heat exchanger to provide a metric indicative of the temperature at the material inlet; material outlet; cooling fluid inlet and cooling fluid outlet. Another embodiment of a material withdrawal apparatus includes a vessel having an outer wall, liner, fill port, and a discharge port. The liner at least partially covers the inner surface of the outer wall. The fill port and discharge port are defined in the vessel and the fill port is configured to receive withdrawn material from at least a unit. Other embodiments provide methods of withdrawing or regulating material in a unit. |
| US08146413B1 |
Two-port tire valve stem
A two-port tire valve stem has a body, preferably of substantially rigid construction, with a first end portion adapted to be mounted to a wheel rim and a second end portion with at least two ports in a branched configuration, each supporting a valve. One of the valve ports may be used for inflation or deflation concurrently with the other being coupled to a pressure sensor for monitoring the air pressure in the tire. The two-port tire valve stem is adapted to be rigidly mounted to an outer of a pair of adjacent wheels, using a bracket, while its first end is adapted to be connected in fluid communication with the inner of the pair of wheels. |
| US08146412B2 |
Model at a reduced scale of a tire for aerodynamic tests in a wind tunnel
A reduced scale model of a tire for aerodynamic tests in a wind tunnel, the model having a hollow toroidal shape, is made of a single molded plastic material homogeneous throughout the model, is deformable, and is shaped so as to reproduce externally the deformed shape of the tire under load when this is set in conditions of operation under the action of centrifugal loads and/or ground loads. |
| US08146410B2 |
Engine test bed supervision system independent of the engine test bed type
A system is disclosed for real-time supervision of engine test beds independent of the engine test bed. This supervision system comprises a file describing equipments and drivers associated with engine test beds, and a set of software drivers for controlling engine test bed equipments. These drivers are independent of the software operating environment and of the computer platform of the system. This system also comprises a real-time supervision software for reading the information from the description file and loading the required drivers so that test configurations can be carried out in real time. These configurations come from a test configuration editor specific to the system and are independent of the engine test bed. An application of the invention is for studying of thermal engines or electric motors on test beds. |
| US08146408B2 |
Method for testing gas turbine engines
A method for testing a cooling system for use in a gas turbine engine control system is provided. The method includes connecting an inlet of the cooling system to a differential pressure sensor, connecting an outlet of the cooling system to the differential pressure sensor, and determining whether or not a difference in pressure exists between the inlet and outlet, wherein such a pressure difference is indicative of whether cooling fluid is flowing through the cooling system. |
| US08146390B2 |
Laundry treating apparatus
The present invention relates to a laundry machine, and more particularly, to an apparatus for treating a laundry, by which a laundry can be treated in a manner of hanging the laundry or the like with a cabinet type body. The present invention includes a cabinet comprising an accommodating space and a mechanism compartment partitioned from the accommodating space by a partition, a steam generator configured to generate steam to be supplied to the accommodating space, and a steam supply unit configured to pass through the partition, the steam supply unit comprising a rotating nozzle to supply steam into the accommodating space. |
| US08146384B2 |
Dual gas and hot liquid absorption chiller assembly
An absorption chiller assembly (20) includes a low-stage generator (42) that utilizes heat from vapor resulting from operation of a high-stage generator (26) and heat from another hot liquid such as coolant fluid associated with a prime mover (22). An example low-stage generator (42) includes an arrangement of conduits for directing flow of the two heat sources through the low-stage generator in a manner that both sources simultaneously interact with a refrigerant solution within the low-stage generator. A disclosed example includes an integrated diverter valve that is preassembled and packaged within an absorption chiller assembly. A disclosed heating mode in one example includes using an absorber (60) and a condenser (56) for heating fluid useful for heating operations. |
| US08146378B1 |
Fuel cell having an integrated, porous thermal exchange mechanism
A thermal transfer system, a heat sink, and a method for transferring heat are provided. The thermal transfer system includes a fuel cell that can produce a fluid. A wick is provided to transfer the fluid to a destination at which a heat source is present. An enclosure having a porous fluid-permeable external wall can surround the fluid at the destination. When the fluid permeates or condenses on the external wall exterior surface, air exposure of that external wall will cause evaporative cooling of the fluid, and thereby enhance the cooling effect at the heat source. The fluid is a natural byproduct of the fuel cell. Accordingly, the thermal transfer system not only cools a heat source, but produces electric current. The heat sink can be thermally coupled to the heat source, and can have a plurality of fins extending from a base. One or more fins can have a fluid-permeable external wall for evaporative cooling. Fluid can be transferred more efficiently using a wick placed somewhere within the internal radial dimension of a pipe that extends from the fuel cell to the heat source. The external wall of the pipe can also be porous to maximize the fluid entrapment on the inner surface and the evaporative cooling on the external surface. |
| US08146377B2 |
Shipping and installation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
A zone-control unit adapted for facile inclusion in a building's ductwork includes a mechanical terminal unit, inlet and outlet piping assemblies that are mechanically coupled together. The structure also includes at least one handle so the zone-control unit may be conveniently and safely handled both during shipping, and during installation into a HVAC system. Prior to installation into a HVAC system the fully-functional zone-control unit also includes a pair of caps respectively sealing the ends of the piping assemblies, and a pressure gauge for sensing pressurization of the piping assemblies and coil which the caps seal. Sealed in this way a pressure gauge permits testing to assure that the piping assemblies and coil are leak free, and readily assessing that zone-control units remain leak free until they are about to be installed into a building's HVAC system. |
| US08146374B1 |
System and method for efficient utilization of energy generated by a utility plant
A system and method for improving the efficiency of an existing utility plant by constructing a data center nearby and retrofitting the utility plant to provide electric power and cooling to the data center. The system and method for cooling the data center uses a cooling fluid cooled using energy obtained from a heating fluid. The heating fluid is received from the utility plant. The system and method uses the cooling fluid to dissipate heat from electrical components contained in the data center, including a plurality of computer servers. |
| US08146373B2 |
Accessory sub-cooling unit and method of use
A system and method for improving the efficiency of a refrigerated air conditioning system utilizing a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. The improved system includes an accessory sub-cooling unit which is fluidly connected between the condensing coil and the expansion valve in a closed loop refrigeration system utilizing a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. The accessory sub-cooling unit comprises a serpentine heat exchange tube having one end fluidly connected downstream of the condensing coil prior to the expansion valve. The accessory sub-cooling unit further comprises a plurality of parallel planar heat transfer fins to assist the heat transfer from the heat exchange tube to the ambient air. In accordance with the method of the present invention, the accessory sub-cooling unit is mounted to a side of the condenser unit in order to utilize the existing air flow generated by the exhaust fan of the condenser unit. |
| US08146369B2 |
Integrated direct drive starter/generator for turbines
A starter/generator machine for a turbine with a turbine enclosure, an air duct, and a plurality of fan blades is provided. The starter/generator machine includes a plurality of stator elements spaced at intervals in a ring shape adjacent to the air duct and a plurality of rotor elements mounted on the fan blades. The stator elements and the rotor elements are mounted to interact magnetically to exert a force sufficient to move the rotor elements. The stator elements are shaped to minimize air flow interference and are formed with a core, at least one pole, and multiple windings. The spacing between the stator elements and the rotor elements forms an air gap on the order of 5-10 mm, and the number of stator elements is different from the number of rotor elements. |
| US08146368B2 |
Method for providing auxiliary power to an electric power plant using fischer tropsch technology
A method for meeting both base-load and peak-load demand in a power production facility. By integrating a Fischer-Tropsch (FT) hydrocarbon production facility with an electrical power generating facility, peak-load power demand can be met by reducing the temperature of the FT reactor thereby increasing the quantity of tail gases and using FT tail gases to fuel a gas turbine generator set. The method enables rapid power response and allows the synthesis gas generating units and the FT units to operate with constant flow rates. |
| US08146367B2 |
Production of synthesis gas using catalyst-coated turbine blades
A process for the production of synthesis gas by oxidizing a hydrocarbon fuel comprises forming mixture of the fuel and an oxidizing gas and contacting the mixture with a catalyst coated on at least part of a turbine (18) to produce a heated gas and passing the heated gas through the turbine (18) to produce power. Also a turbine (18) having a surface comprising a catalyst for the above process. |
| US08146366B2 |
Method for operating a combined-cycle power plant, and combined-cycle power plant useful for carrying out the method
A method involved operating a combined-cycle power plant (10), which has a gas turbine (11) with a compressor (12) and a turbine (13), a heat recovery steam generator (17) which is connected downstream to the gas turbine (11) and is for producing steam in a water/steam cycle, and also at least one once-through cooler (21), through which flows compressed air which is compressed in the compressor (12) and intended for cooling the gas turbine (11), and, cooling down, converts feed-water (24) which is fed from the heat recovery steam generator (17) into steam, and discharges the steam to the heat recovery steam generator (17). Making the operation more flexible is achieved, without lowering the load of the gas turbine (11), by the combined-cycle power plant (10) being switched between a first operating mode, in which only the gas turbine cycle is used for power generation, and a second operating mode, in which the gas turbine cycle and the water/steam cycle are used for power generation. |
| US08146365B2 |
Fuel nozzle providing shaped fuel spray
A fuel injection nozzle for a gas turbine engine has a central fuel ejection nozzle and a plurality of airflow passages within the spray tip that include a first and second group of circumferentially spaced apart fuel-spray forming airflow passages disposed on opposite sides of a transverse axis and oriented towards each other such as to produce opposed fuel spray shaping air jets which generate a shaped final fuel spray. |
| US08146364B2 |
Non-rectangular resonator devices providing enhanced liner cooling for combustion chamber
Embodiments of the present invention provide resonators (260, 460) that have lateral walls (268, 270) disposed at non-square angles relative to the liner's longitudinal (and flow-based) axis (219) such that a film cooling of substantial portions of an intervening strip (244, 444) is provided from apertures (226A, 226B, 426) in a resonator box (262, 462) adjacent and upstream from the intervening strip (244, 444). This film cooling also cools weld seams (280) along the lateral walls (268, 270) of the resonator boxes (262, 462). In various embodiments the lateral wall angles are such that film cooling may be provided to include the most of the downstream portions of the intervening strips (244, 444). These downstream portions are closer to the combustion heat source and therefore expected to be in greater need of cooling. |
| US08146363B2 |
Condenser system
A method of substantially preventing contaminants from entering a condenser adapted for use within a steam generating system. A condenser is provided. Steam or a combination of water and steam is passed into the condenser, the condenser operating in a normal mode if a pressure in a control area is equal to or greater than a predefined pressure and operating in a non-normal mode if the pressure in the control area is less than the predefined pressure. An inert gas is injected into the condenser if a pressure in the control area is less than a holding pressure, the holding pressure being equal to or greater than the predefined pressure. |
| US08146360B2 |
Recovering heat energy
Some embodiments of a generator system can be used with the working fluid in a Rankine cycle. For example, the generator system can be used in a Rankine cycle to recover heat from one of a number of commercial applications and to convert that heat energy into electrical energy. In particular embodiments, the generator system may include a turbine generator apparatus to generate electrical energy and a liquid separator arranged upstream of the turbine generator apparatus. |
| US08146359B2 |
Dual inlet turbocharger system for internal combustion engine
A dual-inlet turbocharger system for internal combustion engine includes a single-shaft turbocharger with a dual-inlet compressor section. An air router provides a bifurcated air supply for the dual-inlet compressor section, and also provides a bifurcated source of charge air for the engine's cylinders in the case in which the present turbocharger system is applied to a V-block engine. |
| US08146358B2 |
Bearing health monitor
A turbocharger monitor including a sensor adapted and positioned with respect to a turbocharger housing to sense passing compressor blades, generating both rotor rotation information and rotor displacement information. A controller is configured to receive the generated information from the blade sensor, and to establish rotor rotation speed and an indicator of bearing condition. |
| US08146354B2 |
Compressed air energy storage system utilizing two-phase flow to facilitate heat exchange
A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control. |
| US08146352B2 |
Diesel particulate filter control
Methods and systems are provided for managing particulate emissions in an engine including a particulate filter and a CO2 sensor downstream of the filter. A CO2 sensor may be used to infer the presence of particulate matter in the exhaust, downstream of the filter. By sensing particulate matter in the post-filter exhaust, filter degradation may be identified. |
| US08146342B2 |
Exhaust eductor system with a recirculation baffle
An exhaust eductor system includes a primary exhaust nozzle configured to transport an active flow stream; and a mixing duct at least partially surrounding the primary exhaust nozzle and configured to transport a passive flow stream that is entrained by mixing with the active flow stream from the primary exhaust nozzle. The mixing duct has an interior, and a baffle on the interior of the mixing duct is configured to prevent the mixed flow streams from exiting the mixing duct. |
| US08146341B2 |
Integrated gas turbine exhaust diffuser and heat recovery steam generation system
Systems and methods for integrating heat exchanger elements of HRSG systems with gas turbine exhaust diffusers are provided in the disclosed embodiments. The systems and methods may include integrating heat exchanger elements, such as steam pipes, with various components of an exhaust diffuser. For example, the heat exchanger elements may be integrated with inlet turning vanes, exhaust frame struts, exit guide vanes, associated support structures, and other components of the exhaust diffuser. In addition, the heat exchanger elements may be integrated with multiple components of a single exhaust diffuser. Moreover, the heat exchanger elements may be integrated with the components of the exhaust diffuser within an airfoil, which may encompass both the heat exchanger elements and the individual component of the exhaust diffuser. The use of airfoils may help ensure certain aerodynamic properties of the heated exhaust gas flowing across the exhaust diffuser components. |
| US08146340B2 |
Link chain
A bush is pressed into a link plate in a turning link rank that turns relatively with a pin. The bush is molded into a seamless cylindrical shape by cold-forging and is coated with a metal carbide layer formed by cementation of chrome, vanadium and other metals and having Vickers hardness of 1300 Hv or more similarly to the pin. Afterwards, the bush is treated by a quenching, tempering or isothermal transformation process. Thereby, wear resistance of the pins and the link plates of a silent (link) chain is improved, productivity is improved and associated costs are reduced. |
| US08146339B2 |
Steel cord for reinforcing rubber article and pneumatic radial tire
A steel cord for reinforcing rubber article having a 1×n structure composed of a plurality of steel filaments stranded in the same direction at the same stranding pitch, the number of the steel filaments being 6 to 12 and the diameter of the steel filaments being 0.08 to 0.21 mm. In the pneumatic radial tire having a carcass, as a framework, extending toroidally between a pair of bead parts, with a crown part of the carcass being reinforced with a belt layer, the above-described steel cord for reinforcing rubber article is applied to a cord constituting the belt layer. |
| US08146332B2 |
Composite air and foam protective packaging
A composite air and foam protective packaging product comprises a packaging cushion having, in cross-section, at least three plies of plastic film, foam between a first ply and a second ply of the three plies of plastic film, and air between the second ply and a third ply of the three plies of plastic film. |
| US08146328B2 |
Film supply apparatus and filling and packaging system including the film supply apparatus
Film supply apparatus (2) has two film holders (22a, 22b) supporting two rolls of film as film (101) on a use side and film (100) on a stand-by side respectively, feed rollers (3) for feeding film (101) on the use side, film holding member (34) holding a leading end portion of film (100) on the stand-by side, sucker (36) pulling back film (100) on the stand-by side upstream in a feeding direction and heater bar (31) heat-sealing two films (100, 101). Sucker (36) attracts film (100) by suctioning and pulls film (100) back to a position where a leading end portion thereof faces heater bar (31). |
| US08146326B2 |
Light weight load bearing architectural column
A tapered lightweight load bearing architectural column is disclosed. The column includes an exterior shell formed of a plurality of walls that together define an open interior and defining a tapered cross section from one end to another end. An interior load bearing shaft is within the exterior shell and is proportionally smaller than the exterior shell. One portion of the interior load bearing shaft is connected against one interior wall of the exterior shell with the remaining portions of the interior shaft being independent of the other interior walls of the interior shell. |
| US08146323B1 |
Apparatus and method for installing anchor bolts in a cylindrical pier foundation
In a foundation for a wind turbine, the foundation has a large number of anchor bolts which are axially placed within the bore hole for mounting a tower flange of the wind turbine. In contrast to the practiced method, the present invention utilizes the fabrication of separate bolt packages, in which the bolts of each bolt package are configured to have an inner arc of bolts and outer arc of bolts, where each bolt in the bolt package is retained, by position retention means, in a fixed position with respect to the position of the other anchor bolts in the pre-assembled package. The present invention describes the position retention means for forming each pre-assembled package and a method of using the position retentions for constructing a foundation for a wind turbine. |
| US08146321B2 |
Structural wall building product
A structural building component includes a pultruded member adapted to be used as a structural frame member of a building. |
| US08146320B2 |
Modular kit for a wind turbine tower
The modular kit for a tower has a height ranging between a minimum height and a maximum height, in particular for a wind energy turbine, comprises a first conical tower segment (10) comprising a steel tube having a predetermined length (11), a second conical tower segment (12) comprising a steel tube having a predetermined length (12), and a first cylindrical tower segment (14) comprising a steel tube having a length between a predetermined minimum length and a predetermined maximum length. The length of the first cylindrical tower segment (14) can be adapted to the necessary height of the tower between its minimum height and its maximum height. The minimum height is the sum of the predetermined lengths (11,12) of the first and second conical tower segments (10,12) and the minimum length of the first cylindrical tower segment (14). The maximum height is the sum of the predetermined lengths (11,12) of the first and second conical tower segments (10,12) and the maximum length of the first cylindrical tower segment (14). |
| US08146315B2 |
Suspended ceiling-support device
A device for supporting a suspended ceiling includes a section that is able to support the suspended ceiling and spacers disposed between the section and the walls of the building. A removable panel is mounted on a section, the panel being able to reduce a space provided between the wall and the section at least at the location of the section bearing the aforementioned panel. At least one of the spacers may simultaneously include means for fixing the spacer to the section and means for fixing the spacer directly to a wall or to a ceiling of the building, in such a way that the spacer may be secured to the wall or the ceiling and the section may not be secured to the wall or the ceiling without a spacer. |
| US08146313B2 |
Multifunction finishing assembly for floor covering, a method for manufacturing and a method for laying said assembly
The finishing assembly for floor covering comprises at least two bars (1;2/1;3), being on the one hand assembled together side by side such that they comprise at least two surfaces (1d;2d/1d; 3d) substantially in the prolongation of one another, and separated by a longitudinal interstice (6/6′), and being, on the other hand, separable. Both assembled bars (1;2/1;3) are designed to be used in a first floor covering application and at least one (1) of said two bars are designed to be used in a second floor covering application. The assembly further comprises a surface coating (4) being applied on both bars (1;2/1;3) and covering the longitudinal interstice (6/6′) between both bars. |
| US08146305B2 |
Pass-through firestop apparatus and methods
Herein are disclosed are apparatus and methods for forming firestopped through-penetrations in poured concrete partitions. The apparatus and methods use an intumescent firestop ring that can be used in combination with a removable sleeve. The firestop ring is detachably mounted on the outer surface of the sleeve form, near one end of the sleeve. The sleeve is positioned and concrete poured around it. After solidification of the concrete the sleeve can be removed to provide a through-penetration containing the firestop ring, secured to the solidified concrete. The firestop ring may optionally comprise one or more retainers and/or one or more insulating spacers. |
| US08146304B1 |
Grille assembly for doors and method for making
An external grille assembly for a door. The external grille assembly can include a door insert. The insert can have a translucent panel, an exterior frame with screw bosses, an interior frame with screw bosses attached to the exterior frame, a connector hole formed in one of the screw bosses, and a connector engaged within the connector hole. The connector can provide attachment between the insert and an external grille. The external grille can be removably and pivotably mounted to the insert and connector with a pin. The connector can include a first plate connected to a second plate, a first tubular disposed within the connector hole, a fastener engaging the first tubular within the connector hole and attaching the connector to the insert, and a second tubular for receiving the pin. Also disclosed is a method a making the external grille assembly. |
| US08146300B2 |
Buckling restrained brace for structural reinforcement and seismic energy dissipation
A buckling restrained brace includes a deformable core contained within an outer casing. Ends of the core protrude from the casing for connection to a frame or other structure. A length of the deformable core between its ends, referred to as the gauge or yielding section, is capable of deforming during an earthquake or blast loading. The gauge section is differentially heat treated from the ends so that the gauge section has a lower yield strength than the ends. The casing provides containment of the core to prevent buckling of the core. A metal foil interface or unbonding layer is provided between the deformable core and the casing so that the deformable core does not bind to the casing. The buckling restrained brace provides significant performance improvements over prior art BRBs coupled with simplified assembly. |
| US08146299B2 |
Roofing grommet forming a seal between a roof-mounted structure and a roof
A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture. |
| US08146296B2 |
Enclosure structure for building
To provide an enclosure structure for a building, which can maintain a high power generation efficiency without formation of irregularities on the surface of the enclosure such as a roof, nor application of an external force to solar battery modules, and which can form a lightweight enclosure capable of photovoltaic generation.An enclosure structure for a building, comprising an outer film material made of a light transmitting material and arranged on the outer surface side of the building, an inner film material arranged along inside of the outer film material, an intermediate film material disposed between the outer film material and the inner film material, an air supply means for supplying air to the space between the outer film material and the inner film material, and solar battery modules 7 provided on the inner surface of the intermediate film material. |
| US08146293B2 |
Double acting snap-in glass retention for a vehicle door
A snap-in glass carrier, engageable with a window regulator for snap fitting a door glass having a glass retention hole to the carrier, comprises a carrier base, a regulator attachment extending from the carrier base, a glass retention portion and a finger. The glass retention portion extends from the base spaced from the window regulator portion to define a gap for the glass. The finger, cantilevered from the base, includes a vertical portion extending parallel to the support finger on the same side of the glass as the support finger, a retention tab extending from the vertical portion into the gap that engages the retention hole, a hinge point adjacent to the glass carrier base and located on the same side of the gap as the window regulator attachment, and a spring leg extending through the gap from the hinge point to the vertical portion. |
| US08146289B2 |
Single use hermetically sealing enclosure-type mousetrap with killing mechanism
A single use, hermetically sealing mousetrap has a housing defining an enclosure that is accessible through a rotatably mounted door controlled by a spring-loaded door opening gear mechanism. Mounted to the bottom of the housing inside the enclosure is a spring-actuated setting axle/kill bar and setting bar combination that is movable between a kill position and a set position by manipulation of a setting handle positioned outside the enclosure. When the setting axle/kill bar is moved to the set position, the door opening gear mechanism causes the door to open while tensioning a torsional door spring. A trip latch and bait pedal are configured to operate together to secure the kill and setting bars in the set position, with subsequent movement of the bait pedal by a mouse serving to release the trip latch. When the trap is thereby triggered, the kill bar moves rapidly to the kill position while releasing the door opening gear mechanism. The tensioned door spring then closes the door. With the door closed, the enclosure is hermetically sealed with the dead mouse inside and the trap can be disposed of without any contact between the user and the carcass along with any parasites and pathogens associated therewith. |
| US08146287B2 |
Integrated fishing rod holder kit
An integrated fishing rod holder kit incorporates a grip coupler that replaces a butt cap on a preexisting fishing rod that has a hollow rod blank having a void space that extends linearly through from the butt of the rod through a rear grip end and forward through the grip area and reel seat area of the rod towards the fishing rod tip. The grip coupler is securely fixed to the rear grip end coaxially and preferably about the rod blank butt end that is revealed after the butt cap is removed. The grip coupler has external threads on its outer surface for engaging a coupler engagement collar of a rod holder body.A rod holder body has an internally threaded collar coaxial to an elongate support rod shaft having one end mounted within the rod holder body and the free end of the shaft extending through and outward from the threaded collar, the rod holder body has a generally V-shaped holder end at the end opposite the collar, and the support rod shaft is elongate and sized to be removably received within the hollow rod blank of the fishing rod and selectively secured therein by engagement by the collar of the external threads of the grip coupler.When removed from the hollow rod blank of a fishing rod, the rod holder body and attached elongate support rod shaft can be used as a rod holder to prop up the rest of the fishing rod. |
| US08146285B1 |
Semiautonomous waterfowl decoy system
A waterfowl decoy comprising a waterfowl decoy body, a propulsion system, an accelerometer, and a microcontroller. In a preferred embodiment, the waterfowl decoy body has an inner cavity with an equipment mounting surface therein with the propulsion system coupled to the equipment mounting surface and configured to propel the waterfowl decoy across a surface of water. The accelerometer is coupled to the equipment mounting surface and configured to sense accelerations of the waterfowl decoy body when propelled across the surface of water, and the microcontroller is coupled to the accelerometer and configured to calculate a distance traveled by the waterfowl decoy body when propelled across the surface of water. A waterfowl decoy system and a method of manufacturing a waterfowl decoy system are also provided. |
| US08146282B2 |
System for providing electrical power to accessories mounted on the powered rail of a weapon
A firearm may have a plurality of power-consuming accessories that can be attached to the weapon. In order to reduce the weight of these power-consuming accessories, as well as the proliferation of their batteries, the Weapons Accessory Power Distribution System provides a common power source to power the power-consuming accessories attached to the weapon. One or more powered rails are provided on the handguard, which encircles the barrel of the weapon, to provide a point of mechanical and electrical interconnection for the power-consuming accessories to provide quick connect mounting and dismounting of the power-consuming accessory, absent the use of connectors with their tethering cables, which are susceptible to entanglement. The powered rail(s) are electrically interconnected with a power source, which typically is a battery mounted in the butt stock of the weapon. |
| US08146281B2 |
Ammunition chain for toy projectiles
A link for a toy ammunition chain made up of a plurality of links hinged together side-by-side in articulated fashion includes a cylindrical body adapted to receive a soft projectile. A first hinge component extends laterally from the body and has a pair of hinge pins. A second hinge component extends laterally from the body at a position opposite the first hinge component and has a pair of recesses each for pivotally receiving a hinge pin of an adjacent link in the chain. |
| US08146278B1 |
Illuminated flag
An illuminated display configured for mounting to an automobile flag pole, or alternatively, to a window, the display including a rectangular enclosure having a transparent first side, a transparent second side, a bottom side, opposing lateral sides and a hinged-top lid. An interchangeable first panel displaying a first indicia, an interchangeable second panel displaying a second indicia and an opaque middle panel having a light source coupled to each side thereof are supported within the enclosure by sets of opposing tracks extending along the interior surface of the enclosure. |
| US08146272B2 |
Outsole having grooves forming discrete lugs
Various arrangements for an article of footwear including an outsole having grooves forming discrete lugs are presented. The outsoles generally include a plurality of grooves formed in at least a portion of the outsole that extend from a lateral side of the outsole to a medial side of the outsole. The grooves may be linear or curved and generally extend in an angular fashion. The grooves may have a first depth at a perimeter of the outsole and a second depth, greater than the first depth, at the center of the outsole. The grooves form discrete lugs. In some arrangements, the lugs are diamond shaped. |
| US08146262B1 |
Method and device for locating hole center
A device locates an apparatus to the center of a hole in a structure. The device includes a hub adapted to have the apparatus mounted thereon and a plurality of locator elements spaced around the hub which extend at least partially into the hole. Means coupled with the locator elements and the hub are used to displace the locator elements outwardly into engagement with the edges of the structure and to move the hub into axial alignment with the center of the hole. |
| US08146260B1 |
Framing square
A folding framing square, comprising a substantially right triangular shaped framing square having a flange attached substantially perpendicular thereto and forming a substantially “T” shaped section therewith, a substantially right-angled trapezium shaped framing square hingedly attached to the flange; and optionally having a ring hingedly attached to the flange, the ring adapted to allow a user to removably insert a finger therethrough and facilitate the user to hold the folding framing square. The substantially right-angled trapezium shaped framing square and the ring may each be independently folded from an open to a closed position and vice versa. An alternate embodiment comprises a substantially right triangular shaped framing square having a flange attached substantially perpendicular thereto, a substantially right-angled trapezium shaped framing square hingedly attached to a clamp, the clamp adapted to be removably and releasably attached to the flange. |
| US08146257B2 |
Brush cutter
A brush cutter is provided with fixing pieces projecting outward and opposing each other substantially at a middle position of a slit stretching between both ends of a clamp member. Accordingly, an outer pipe is clamped in the middle of an attachment housing and apart from an axial center of the outer pipe, so that a size of the attachment housing in an axial direction can be reduced and stress concentration on the outer pipe can be avoided. |
| US08146250B2 |
Method of replacing a composite airfoil
A method of replacing a portion of a composite airfoil in a turbine. The method comprises the steps of providing a turbine with a plurality of composite airfoils mounted on a wheel. At least one of the composite airfoils has a core made of a non-plastic material and a plastic airfoil portion to envelope at least a portion of the core. A composite airfoil having an airfoil portion in need of replacement is accessed. The plastic airfoil portion is removed to expose the core while the core is mounted on the wheel. A plastic airfoil portion is molded to envelope the core while the core is mounted on the wheel. |
| US08146246B2 |
Method of manufacturing a wired circuit board
A method of manufacturing a wired circuit board, including: forming an insulating layer in a pattern thereby forming second through holes penetrating the insulating layer in a thickness direction thereof; and after forming the insulating layer, forming, on the insulating layer, a conductive pattern in a pattern having terminals which are continuous with an upper surface and a side surface of a side end portion of the insulating layer such that the terminals extend into the second through holes. The terminals are operative for connecting with external terminals via a molten metal. The terminals include annular, step-shaped shoulder portions aligned with the second through holes and that are recessed downward from an upper surface, and first through holes having a diameter smaller than that of the second through holes and which pass through the terminals in a thickness direction thereof. |
| US08146245B2 |
Method for assembling a wafer level test probe card
A method for assembling a probe card for wafer level testing of a plurality of semiconductor devices simultaneously is disclosed. The probe card may include a circuit board including wafer level testing circuitry, a partially flexible silicon substrate, a plurality of test probes disposed at least partially in the substrate for engaging a plurality of corresponding electrical contacts in a wafer under test, and a compressible underfill coupling the substrate to the circuit board. The method includes aligning and assembling the foregoing components, and curing the underfill. The probe card may be used for wafer level burn-in testing. In some embodiments, the probe card may include active test control circuitry embedded in the silicon substrate for conducting wafer level high frequency testing. |
| US08146243B2 |
Method of manufacturing a device incorporated substrate and method of manufacturing a printed circuit board
A method of manufacturing a device-incorporated substrate as well as a printed circuit board. A transfer sheet is formed having a structure that includes two layers, a metal base material and a dissolvee metal layer and a conductor pattern is formed on the dissolvee metal layer by electroplating. After the transfer sheet on which the conductor pattern is formed is adhered onto an insulating base material, the transfer sheet is removed by separating the metal base material from the dissolvee metal layer and thereafter selectively dissolving and removing the dissolvee metal layer with respect to the conductor pattern. |
| US08146230B2 |
Method of reducing pressuing during installation of a fastener
A fastener may include a shaft and a head. The shaft may have first and second opposing ends and a first surface having a first diameter. The head may be attached to the first opposing end of the shaft. The head may have a second surface comprising a second diameter which is larger than the first diameter. The head may have a third surface extending between the second surface and the first surface. The third surface may be defined by a relief slot extending from the second surface to at least one of near and to the first surface. The relief slot may be for providing a relief path to reduce pressure during installation, using a viscous compound, of the fastener to a member. |
| US08146229B2 |
Electrical system for office furniture
An article of furniture having a construction adapted to efficiently accommodate electrical components. The article of furniture includes a frame or chassis having support leg assemblies, and a beam connected to the support leg assemblies to which a channel is mounted. The support leg assemblies include work surface supports which support work surfaces at adjustable heights above the channel, and a gap between the work surfaces allows access to the electrical system within the channel. The electrical system is modular in design, and includes a series of components that may be connected to one another in a manner that the location of electrical outlet modules may be easily adjusted. The channel has a plurality of knock-out openings which may be selectively used for locating electrical outlets at any desired position along the channel. |
| US08146228B2 |
Automobile run channel fitting method and device
An automobile run channel fitting device for fitting a run channel into an automobile door sash comprising a pair of robot arms 1 and 2 which act in harmony and a run channel fitting jig 3 attached to each robot arm, wherein the run channel fitting jig 3 comprises an upper roller unit 12 adapted to push the run channel to fit it into an upper sash, a rotatable lower roller 14 adapted to push the run channel to fit it into a lower sash, and a lower roller supporting means 15 adapted to support the lower roller 14 and insert the lower roller 14 into a gap formed between an inner panel and an outer panel. The lower roller supporting means 15 comprises a sliding mechanism 17, a bending section 18 and a roller supporting section 19. |
| US08146225B2 |
Method of forming a clamping ring and a clamping ring
For forming a clamping ring first the pipe is extruded. The extruded pipe is cut to form a pipe part. While extruding the pipe, its inner diameter is formed smaller than the outer diameter of a pipe onto which the clamping ring is positioned before making a pipe connection. The inner diameter of the pipe part is made larger by removing material from the inside of the pipe part but only over part of the length of the pipe part such that a stop edge is formed. The clamping ring is used on a pipe when making a pipe connection. |
| US08146222B2 |
Device and method for joining and tacking sections for transportation vehicles
A device and method for joining and tacking several individual components independently of shape and/or size to form inherently rigid, transportable sections for transportation vehicles, such as an aircraft is disclosed. According to one embodiment of the invention, the individual components may be spatially positioned relative to each other independently of shape and/or size. The spatial positions of the individual components may be determined by a measuring device, such as a laser measuring device, and varied via several positioning devices until a preset spatial position of the individual components has been reached in which the individual component are tacked together to form a section. In another embodiment, the positioning devices may be designed as base positioners, a first lateral positioner, a second lateral positioner, an upper positioner as well as an inner positioner. Joining and tacking of several individual components 1 may form varying sections such as sections with varying cross sectional geometries and/or cross sectional dimensions and/or linear dimensions for different types of aircraft or for derivatives of the same aircraft types. In addition, the sections may have two working platforms on either side of the section. |
| US08146220B2 |
Low-profile tool-less board extraction device and method of using the same
A board extraction device with integrated mounting includes a base portion configured to be disposed on an opening of a circuit board, a rivet extending from a surface of the base portion and configured to pass through the opening, a handle flexibly connected to the base portion, and a pin flexibly connected to the base portion. The rivet has a hole extending therethrough. The pin engages the hole so as to fix the base portion to the circuit board. |
| US08146219B2 |
Portable renewable energy box system
A small, easily transportable wind turbine system has a square rail base secured to the ground by stakes and by its own weight. Slanted vertical legs connect a smaller square upper support perimeter to the base. A three-section telescoping mast is attached to the base and to the upper support. Winches and guy wires raise the second mast. As the second mast is raised, static guy wires raise the third mast. A wind generating turbine is attached to the top of the third mast. A controller senses the maximum output of the turbine and raises or lowers the height of the masts such that the minimum wind speed necessary to produce the maximum electric output is produced. The controller also feeds energy to a battery storage system and directly to a utility panel. |
| US08146215B2 |
Flexible connection and release device and method
A flexible connection and release device which allows quick release while under load. The device includes a first link; a second link; a first sling having one end attached to the first link; a second sling having one end attached to the second link; a tab attached to the first sling; a grommet contained in the tab; a curved length of a first flexible cable connected between two fixed points in the first sling on either side of the tab; a second flexible cable; and a pin or a third flexible cable. The links are connected together with multiple turns of the second flexible cable which forms a loop at its center. The curved length of the first flexible cable is passed through the loop in the second flexible cable and through the grommet so that a part of the first flexible cable protrudes from the grommet. The pin or third cable is passed through the protruding part of the first flexible cable to lock the first flexible cable in place. |
| US08146203B2 |
Castor assembly
The present invention relates to castor wheel assemblies, in particular but not exclusively, to castor wheel assemblies of a type suitable for use with trolleys, for example supermarket trolleys or luggage trolleys. Embodiments of the invention provide a swivel castor wheel assembly configured to support an object to be moved across a surface, the assembly comprising a swivel castor wheel having an axis of wheel rotation and a steering axis and mounted on a first member, wherein the first member is configured for connection to the object in such a way that the steering axis can be moved between first and second different rake angles without substantially changing a height of the object over the surface. |
| US08146200B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus with accessory working air path
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an accessory hose mounted to an upright handle and a recovery tank mounted to a base. An accessory working air path is formed between the accessory hose and the recovery tank when the upright handle is in an upright position and is separated when the handle is tilted from the upright position. The upright handle and the base can include couplings that are in register when the upright handle is in the upright position to form the accessory working air path. |
| US08146198B2 |
Debris removal apparatus for a wiper system
An automatic debris removal apparatus for a wiper system that removes soluble and insoluble debris trapped between the wiper blade and the glass surface by lifting the wiper blade off the glass surface and then causing the wiper blade to drop onto the glass surface as a shake under urge of the biasing spring of the wiper arm, so as to thereby provide a shaking action which frees any trapped debris. An actuator selectively interacts with the pivotal portion of the wiper arm to effect shaking of the wiper arm to thereby free the wiper blade of the debris. |
| US08146197B2 |
Cleaning device and process for producing the same
A cleaning device superior in dust collecting capacity allows material selection from a wide range of fibers and a base material sheet forming the same and can be produced in a short processing time while preventing thermal deterioration and hardening of the material. A process for producing it is also disclosed. A cleaning device 1 is obtained by providing a large number of filaments 30 aligned in fiber direction with a linear bundling portion 40 connecting the fibers to each other by heat-sealing, forming a filament bundling body 31 previously bundled by the bundling portion 40, and bonding the filament bundling body 31 to a base material sheet 6 by an adhesive. A bristle-like-member-less portion 14 of a brush sheet 9 with a plurality of bristle-like members 8 is integrally bonded to a fiber bundle 7 and the base material sheet 6 by an adhesive. |
| US08146193B1 |
Launcher for tube cleaning projectiles
A launcher for heat exchanger tube cleaning projectiles using operator selected compressed air application for manipulating launcher operating components including hydraulic bolt, projectile plunger, and water valve to fire projectile with pressurized water, and to reset operating components for subsequent projectile firings. Launcher has means for venting heat exchanger tube over- or under-pressure occurring in practice, and further has visual indicator of force applied in firing projectiles, and of tube being clear after exiting of projectile from the tube. |
| US08146192B2 |
Emergency self evacuation system
The instant invention covers all areas of transportation emergency situation egress. Primarily intended for user self-evacuation from an enclosed space that has become Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) a version is specifically designed for use by First Responders for exterior rescue. |
| US08146185B2 |
Structure to make easier laying covers
The present invention concerns a bed (1) provided with a device (2) suitable for facilitating the straightening of blankets and sheets when making the bed. Said device (2) is of the type with a frame, or surround, comprising two rods (2a, 2b) and a third transverse rod (2c) which joins the second ends of said two rods (2a, 2b), capable of rotating around an axis (4) from a horizontal to a vertical position and vice versa, the axis of rotation (4) being horizontal, transverse with respect to the length of the bed and situated in the vicinity of the head (5) of the bed; means are provided suitable for hooking the covers (7) in the highest position of the frame, i.e. to said third transverse rod (2c) of said frame, when the latter is in the vertical position, said device (2) being characterized in that a further two short additional rods (2d, 2e) are provided, connected to the ends of said transverse rod of the frame, said additional rods (2d, 2e) being able, in turn, to assume a first position when said rods (2d, 2e) are aligned with said transverse rod (2c) so as to constitute an extension of said transverse rod (2c) suitable for gripping the part of said cover (7) exceeding the width of the mattress of said bed (1). |
| US08146181B2 |
Drain valve
A drain valve which is used in particular in storage tanks of dishwashers, such as single-chamber or multi-chamber dishwashers. The drain valve comprises a sieve insert accommodated on a support which is of tubular design, and in which a contact switch is arranged to sense the presence of the sieve insert. The support can be moved in the vertical direction with respect to the drain opening in the base of a storage tank by means of an electric drive. |
| US08146178B2 |
Quick release faceguard retainer
A quick release faceguard retainer for use with a protective headgear and faceguard. The headgear has a face opening and an outer surface with a selected curvature. The faceguard has at least one top substantially horizontal bar. The retainer includes a base portion with a front surface and a back surface. The back surface of the base is adapted to be fixedly attached to the outer surface of the headgear above the face opening and has a curvature matching the curvature of the outer surface of the headgear above the face opening. Two complementary retention arms protrude out from the front surface of the base to form two complementary retention channels. One channel has a downward opening and the other has an upward opening and both have an inner surface which together surround the top horizontal bar of the faceguard. Also provided is a faceguard engagement space between the two retention arms having a size for receiving the top bar. |
| US08146176B2 |
Equestrian riding breeches garment and method for its manufacture
An equestrian riding garment includes a pair of pants of elastic material having inner leg expanses and a butt expanse of durable material affixed to corresponding regions thereof, the inner leg and butt expanses being made of real or faux leather that is perforated to increase air permeability and to promote friction with a saddle. Preferably, the butt expanse is bifurcated into left and right sub-pieces corresponding with the equestrian's left and right buttocks. Optionally, a knee region of the inner leg expanses is articulated, as by segmenting. Optionally, an abdominal and/or inner calf region of the pair of pants includes an inner support layer of extra fabric for more flattering fit. |
| US08146175B2 |
Scarf harness
A scarf harness according to the present teachings facilitates the wearing of a scarf as a clothing accessory. The harness can allow the scarf to drape across the front of a user. The draping of a scarf can allow the visual pattern of the scarf to be easily seen and can enhance the impact of the scarf as a clothing accessory. The scarf harness can retain the scarf in a draped function over the front of the user along with providing a distinctive butterfly-type shape to the scarf. |
| US08146172B2 |
Method for creating garment cuffs with stretch and recovery characteristics
A method for creating garment cuffs includes applying a high-polymer heat-sealable material on a cuff area of the fabric used for the garment. The heat-sealable material and the fabric underneath are then cut with an ultrasonic cutter to form the cuff and concurrently finish the lower edges of the cuff. The heat-sealable material has properties that allow it to stretch from an equilibrium point in response to tension applied on the material, and recover back towards the equilibrium point in response to release of the tension on the material. Reinforcing the cuff area with the heat-sealable material allows the cuff area to maintain its stretch and recovery properties even after the fabric has degraded after extended use and washing of the fabric. Furthermore, the ultrasonic cutting causes some of the heat-sealable film to melt into the cut edges of the fabric at the cuff to create substantially sealed edges at the cuff. |
| US08151365B2 |
Filtering access to data objects
In one embodiment, a code server and edit server are provided. The code server stores the source code. Users do not access the code server directly. Rather, an edit server is used where users can log in to the edit server and send requests to edit portions of the source code. The edit server then sends requests to the code server for requested portions of the source code. Different users may have different access-rights to portions of the code. When the request is received from the edit server, if the code server determines the user requesting the portion of the source code does not have access rights to it, then the code server does not allow the portion of code to be accessed. However, if the user does have access rights, then the portion of the source code is retrieved and sent to the edit server. The user can then edit the source code on the edit server. |
| US08151363B2 |
Approach for securely processing an electronic document
A method and apparatus for processing an electronic document in a secure manner is provided. A client may verify that the configuration state of a standalone document-processing device has not changed since a prior configuration state by issuing a request to a security server. The security server may process the request to determine whether the configuration state of the standalone document-processing device has changed since the document-processing device was registered with the security server. The security server may also verify that actions performed on the document-processing device. A storage medium of a document-processing device may be protected against unauthorized removal of the storage medium by storing, separate from the storage medium, a password required to access the storage medium, and when the document-processing device is powered on, the password is provided to the storage medium. |
| US08151360B1 |
System and method for administering security in a logical namespace of a storage system environment
A system and method administers security in a logical namespace of a storage system environment. A remote agent performs an integral security-related role within a management framework that is directed to off-loading administration of privileges from a namespace and storage management (NSM) server for namespace and storage management. NSM server rights are defined and assigned to a user of the NSM server in accordance with a security administration feature of the management framework. In addition, a multi-stage authentication procedure is provided to ensure that a user has the appropriate rights to perform operations on the NSM server. |
| US08151359B2 |
System for managing proprietary data
A content distribution system (300) has access control according to a predefined data access format. A studio (32) provides content data and related proprietary data on a record carrier (34) to be rendered by a rendering device (39). In the system applications (35) are executed on the device for manipulating the content data and related proprietary data. An access policy is set for each studio that controls access to said content data and related proprietary data. According to the invention a cross access policy is set for a virtual entity (42), and at least part of the proprietary data (43) is made available according to the cross access policy of the virtual entity. Also a cross studio application (41) is provided that complies with the access policy of the virtual entity for accessing said data for enabling the rendering device, when rendering the record carrier, to execute the cross studio application for accessing, for a multitude of studios, said at least part of the proprietary data. |
| US08151357B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information recording medium manufacturing method, and computer program
An information recording medium manufacturing method includes the steps of: determining an encryption mode of each sector, which serves as an encrypt processing unit; generating encrypted data having different variations by using a plurality of cryptographic keys for a segment portion; generating encrypted data by using a single cryptographic key for a non-segment portion; and recording the encrypted data. In determining the encryption mode, a cryptographic key for each sector is specified on the basis of an auxiliary file including determination information indicating whether each sector is data of a segment portion or data of a non-segment portion and identification information for identifying a segment and a variation associated with the sector if the sector is found to be the data of a segment portion. In generating the encrypted data for the segment portion or for the non-segment portion, the encrypted data is generated by using the specified cryptographic key. |
| US08151355B2 |
Detection of undesired computer files in archives
Systems and methods that can detect known undesired computer files in protected archives are provided. According to one embodiment, an archive file in transit across a network as an attachment to an email message destined for a client workstation is scanned, without decrypting or decompressing contents of the archive, by an anti-virus detection module running on a network gateway. A type and associated structure of the archive are identified by examining primary or secondary identification bytes of the archive. Based on the type and structure, descriptive information regarding a contained file is obtained. The descriptive information includes a hash value of the contained file in uncompressed format. If the descriptive information matches a signature of a known undesired computer file, then a clean version of the archive is produced by removing the contained file and regenerating the archive. Finally, the clean version of the archive is delivered. |
| US08151354B1 |
Detecting and addressing network attacks
A method and system are provided for preventing network service shutdowns resulting from denial of service (DOS) attacks. First, parameters are monitored corresponding to network elements carrying communication signal traffic in a communications network, and, based on the parameters, if a DOS attack is indicated, performing the following for each instance of communication signal traffic: accessing data structures for data relating to protected communication signal traffic, and, based on the data, determining if the communication signal traffic is designated as protected. Finally; based on the determination, cleaning and forwarding each protected communication signal to its respective destination. |
| US08151350B2 |
Method and device for detecting unknown network worms
A method and device for detecting a network worm on the network allows early detection of an unknown network worm with less computational quantity based on a change of randomness occurring to network traffic without using a pattern-matching-based worm detecting method or a behavior-based worm detecting method. |
| US08151349B1 |
Masking mechanism that facilitates safely executing untrusted native code
This disclosure presents a system that uses masking to safely execute native code. This system includes a processing element that executes the native code and a memory which stores code and data for the processing element. The processing element includes a masking mechanism that masks one or more bits of a target address during a control flow transfer to transfer control to a restricted set of aligned byte boundaries in the native code. |
| US08151348B1 |
Automatic detection of reverse tunnels
Presently disclosed are methods and apparatus for analyzing packets and packet flows to detect covert communications channels (including reverse tunnels) in real time. These systems actively probe a suspicious connection in ways that are not possible in prior art log-based techniques and may initiate countermeasures against discovered covert channels. The present system may be implemented in a network device, such as an intrusion detection system, content engine, or other intermediary device employing a web cache. Embodiments automatically detect suspicious activity at particular source addresses by using relatively simple tests to detect suspect packets that should receive more extensive scrutiny. After more rigorous secondary testing (optionally including active probing techniques), suspect packets are either returned to the occasionally-checked state or flagged for further action, such as raising an alert or taking automatic countermeasures against the covert channel or its originators. |
| US08151343B1 |
Method and system for providing authentication credentials
A method for authenticating a user, that includes receiving an account identifier from the user, obtaining a media prompt from an account based on the account identifier, presenting the user with the media prompt and a question prompt, wherein the question prompt references the media prompt, receiving input answering the question prompt, comparing the input with a valid response to determine whether the user is authentic, wherein the valid response requires personal knowledge of the media prompt and the question prompt, and authorizing the user to access a resource when the user is authentic. |
| US08151339B2 |
Method and apparatus for implementing filter rules in a network element
Multiple non-conflicting actions associated with filter rules may be located and applied to a packet using a single ACL lookup by causing action records to be created from ACEs in the ACL, and then causing the ACL lookup to return the action record rather than any one particular ACE. Radix tables may be created to enable a search engine to quickly locate the appropriate action record based on a particular set of attributes associated with the incoming packet. The action record can contain multiple actions taken from multiple ACEs that apply to the particular packet. By grouping all the actions into an action record, and then searching for an action record that applies to the packet, it is possible to apply all non-conflicting actions to the packet regardless of the number of ACEs that are used to specify those actions. Since all the actions are located together, the actions of all ACEs may be applied to a packet using a single ACL lookup. |
| US08151325B1 |
Optimizing device authentication by discovering internet protocol version authorizations
Methods and computer-readable media are provided to enable an Internet protocol (IP) data session to be established between a mobile device and a telecommunications network. To establish an IP data session, it may be determined, prior to authenticating the device, whether the device is authorized to communicate via IPv4, IPv6, or both. A mobile device may be capable of communicating via both IPv4 and IPv6, such as a dual-stack device, but the device may only be authorized for either IPv4 or IPv6. A request to establish the IP data session may first be received from a mobile device, and an IP version with which the mobile device is authorized to communicate may then be determined by querying a customer-profile database. This authorization information may be communicated to an authentication component that authenticates the devices, and subsequently, an IP data session is initiated. |
| US08151321B2 |
Modular network-assisted policy resolution
The present invention relates to a policy resolution method and system, access network and terminal device for enabling modular network-assisted policy resolution, wherein the policy resolution is divided into separate stages each handling specific types of trigger events and performing specific types of policy actions. The separate stages are processed in a chronological order during a policy resolution round, and trigger events which occur during a policy resolution round are frozen until the start of the next policy resolution round. Thereby, modular policy resolution with reduced delays and oscillations can be achieved. Moreover, policy processing can be divided into a policy decision point functions in the network and a policy enforcement point function in the network or terminal device, so that terminal resources used for policy resolution can be saved. |
| US08151320B2 |
Remote access system, method and program
A remote access system comprises a remote terminal, an access server accommodating a connection from the remote terminal, and first and second logical channels logically connecting the remote terminal and the access server. The remote terminal comprises a flow search processing unit that classifies flows. The access server comprises a pass determining unit that determines whether a flow can pass or not, and a flow search processing unit that classifies flows. The first logical channel is used to transfer packets included in a flow that needs to be judged by the access server as to whether it can pass or not. The second logical channel is used to transfer packets included in a flow that has been permitted by the access server to pass. |
| US08151318B1 |
Method and apparatus for reliably and asymmetrically distributing security information within a fibre channel fabric
A reliable asymmetric method for distributing security information within a Fiber Channel Fabric. The Switching Fabric includes a set of security servers, which maintain among themselves a replicated copy of the Fabric security databases using the currently defined Merge and Change protocols. The other Switches of the Fabric are configured as client-Switches. They maintain only the subset of the authorization and authentication information required for their correct operation. A client-Switch queries the security server when a new end-device is connected to it, or when it is connected to the Fabric. When the security configuration of the Fabric changes by an administrative action, a security server solicits the client-Switches to update their information. In an alternative embodiment, the end-devices may query directly the security server, usually for authentication purposes. A Fabric with a plurality of security servers balances among them the load of inquiries from clients, and is more reliable because it continues to operate in the event of failure of one or more servers. Reliability is achieved in a stateless manner through the FSPF protocol, the Fiber Channel routing protocol. Each security server announces itself to the Fabric by advertising an adjacency to a predefined virtual Domain_ID in its FSPF LSRs. Clients access servers by directing queries to this virtual Domain_ID. |
| US08151316B2 |
Synchronizing visual cues to multimedia presentation
A spatial marker specified in extensible mark-up language (XML) for use in connection with an XML-based synchronized multimedia presentation. The spatial marker specifies a visual cue for a multimedia element in the presentation, together with the visual appearance of the cue and spatial and temporal characteristics of the cue. The spatial and temporal characteristics of the cue synchronize the cue with the multimedia presentation. In operation, and upon encountering such a spatial marker, an XML-based multimedia browser displaying the multimedia presentation to a user would display the visual cue using the specified visual appearance, and in the spatial and temporal relationships with the multimedia element as specified by the spatial and temporal characteristics of the marker. |
| US08151308B1 |
Modifying the behavior of a multimedia transport system in response to detected capabilities of a client system
Modifying the behavior of a multimedia transport system in response to a detected capability of a client system. A client system may include the capability to perform portions of a multimedia manipulation function, such as a VCR-like function, by using components solely included in the client system. A client system may also include the capability to simultaneously receive multimedia content in excess of what the client system may essentially simultaneously output. This capability may be used to improve the bandwidth utilization of the multimedia server. This may be a result of components, such as a mass storage device or multiple signal input interfaces, being included in the client system. If a client system includes such capabilities, the underlying executable instructions associated with an input device, such as a remote control or keyboard, may be modified to utilize the detected capability. |
| US08151306B2 |
Remote control for wireless control of system including home gateway and headend, either or both of which have digital video recording functionality
A system for wireless remote control of a gateway and ordering or invocation of services provided by a headend. The remote control includes a video display and user input device or keyboard and can decompress and display compressed streaming video in some embodiments. Some species of the remote control can act as web browsers, appliance control, TIVO function control, an IP telephony telephone, a cellular telephone and/or an MP3 player. In some embodiments, the gateway and/or headend can implement TIVO-like functions under control from a wireless remote of custom design or implemented on a Personal Digital Assistant. |
| US08151304B2 |
Digital downloading jukebox system with user-tailored music management, communications, and other tools
A digital downloading jukebox system including a mechanism for delivering custom services to a recognized user, including services for creating playlists, communicating with others, accessing other features, etc. is provided. In some exemplary embodiments, after a user is recognized, the jukebox system allows users to access a special front-end via the Internet or on an actual jukebox. Then, the user may, for example, create playlists, share songs with friends, send messages to friends, and access other value-added content. Other exemplary embodiments allow users to become certified, charging them for services without requiring constant inputting of coinage or credit card information. Such a system preferably learns about networks of friends, and enables managers to send similar messages to regular customers and/or others known to the system. |
| US08151298B2 |
Method and system for embedding information into streaming media
A method and system for embedding information into streaming media is disclosed. In order to avoid a prolonged waiting period between the time a video stream is selected for viewing and the time it actually begins to play, information relevant to the content of the video stream is independently obtained and locally stored. This information may be advertising, text, games or any other media which may be of interest to the user. The information is embedded into the video or other media stream to be presented to the viewer and played immediately, so that the user avoids any wait time in viewing the selected stream that may occur due to bandwidth shortages or other system considerations. |
| US08151297B2 |
System and method for distributing and broadcasting multimedia
Multimedia distribution and broadcast systems and related processes are provided for transmitting multimedia contents and control information from a central uplink facility to a remote downlink via a satellite. The system is preferably implemented in order to generate sequences of multimedia that are broadcast from the remote downlink facility to viewers. The display arrangements of the multimedia sequences are varied and customized by each downlink facility using the control information in order to better inform and entertain viewers. |
| US08151292B2 |
System for remote access to media, and reaction and survey data from viewers of the media
Embodiments are described that enable remote and interactive access, navigation, and analysis of reactions from viewers to a media instance. The reactions include physiological responses, survey results, verbatim feedback, event-based metadata, and derived statistics for indicators of success and failure from the viewers. The reactions are aggregated, and an interface enables remote access and navigation of the media instance, aggregated physiological responses synchronized with the media instance, survey results, and/or verbatim feedback related to the media instance. This enables users to interactively divide, dissect, parse, and analyze the reactions as they prefer. This automation provides an automated process enabling non-experts to understand complex physiological data, and to organize presentation of complex data according to their needs so as to present conclusions as appropriate to the media instance. |
| US08151287B2 |
Optical pickup feed device for sliding optical pickup
The present invention is to provide a pickup feed device to accurately position an optical pickup in place with miniaturization. The pickup device includes a lead screw attached to a movable chassis, a pickup portion, a rack member, a torsion coil spring, a projection portion, and a recess portion. The pickup portion has a case receiving the pickup. The rack member is fixed to the case. The rack portion disposed on a rack one end portion and a case one end portion are engaged with the lead screw. A rack another end portion has the abut portion abutting an inner edge portion of the movable chassis. The torsion coil spring urges the abut portion toward a case another end portion. The projection portion is disposed on the abut portion and the recess portion is disposed on the case another end portion. |
| US08151286B2 |
Disk device
A disk device includes a loader chassis, a control board, an optical pickup, a flexible flat cable, and a guide member. The loader chassis has a bottom plate with a through hole. The control board is fixedly attached to a lower face of the bottom plate of the loader chassis. The optical pickup is movable between inner and outer positions with respect to the loader chassis in inward and outward movement directions that are parallel to a radial direction of a disk. The flexible flat cable electrically connects the control board to the optical pickup and is partially disposed through the through hole. The flexible flat cable includes a bent end portion that is connected to the optical pickup. The guide member is formed on an upper face of the bottom plate of the loader chassis and guides the bent end portion upward with respect to the bottom plate. |
| US08151276B2 |
Test script transformation analyzer with change guide engine
A script analyzer with change guide generates accurate test scripts for evolving applications. Applications often have complex graphical user interfaces for which the permutations and combinations of GUI elements give rise to an enormous field of potential commands and command sequences to be tested. Furthermore, these applications change over time, rendering prior test scripts unworkable. The script analyzer automatically generates new test scripts to reliably test subsequent application versions, while greatly reducing the time, cost, and resource expenditures needed to arrive at subsequent application versions. |
| US08151275B2 |
Accessing copy information of MMIO register by guest OS in both active and inactive state of a designated logical processor corresponding to the guest OS
A method and an apparatus for storing a copy of memory-mapped I/O (MMIO) register are provided for enhancing data processing efficiency. In a structure in which data processing is executed by associating a plurality of logical processors with a physical processor by timing sharing, a host OS stores copy information, namely, shadow, of the MMIO register corresponding to a logical processor in memory both in an active state where a physical processor is allocated to a logical processor corresponding to a guest OS and in an inactive state where no physical processor is allocated to a logical processor. This structure enables a guest OS to gain faster access to the MMIO register through the shadow by memory access, instead of a direct access to the MMIO register, so as to achieve efficient data processing. |
| US08151269B1 |
Database system having a service level goal responsive regulator
A database system includes a regulator subsystem that is configured to attempt to satisfy service level goals of multiple workloads that are executing in the database system. The regulator subsystem is configured to monitor execution of a particular request belonging to a particular workload and to assign, at plural event intervals, corresponding priority levels to the particular request based on the monitored execution. |