最新美国发明专利第2012-04-10期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08153478B2	Method for manufacturing integrated circuit package system with under paddle leadfingers A method for manufacturing an integrated circuit package system includes: forming a die paddle; forming an under paddle leadframe including lower leadfingers thereon; attaching the under paddle leadframe to the die paddle with the lower leadfingers extending under the die paddle; attaching a die to the die paddle; and planarizing a bottom surface of the under paddle leadframe to separate the lower leadfingers under the die paddle.
US08153477B2	Method of making a semiconductor chip assembly with a post/dielectric/post heat spreader A method of making a semiconductor chip assembly includes providing first and second posts, first and second adhesives, first and second conductive layers and a dielectric base, wherein the first post extends from the dielectric base in a first vertical direction into a first opening in the first adhesive and is aligned with a first aperture in the first conductive layer, the second post extends from the dielectric base in a second vertical direction into a second opening in the second adhesive and is aligned with a second aperture in the second conductive layer and the dielectric base is sandwiched between and extends laterally from the posts, then flowing the first adhesive in the first vertical direction and the second adhesive in the second vertical direction, solidifying the adhesives, then providing a conductive trace that includes a pad, a terminal and selected portions of the conductive layers, wherein the pad extends beyond the dielectric base in the first vertical direction and the terminal extends beyond the dielectric base in the second vertical direction, providing a heat spreader that includes the posts and the dielectric base, then mounting a semiconductor device on the first post, electrically connecting the semiconductor device to the conductive trace and thermally connecting the semiconductor device to the heat spreader.
US08153476B2	Electronic component and method of manufacturing the same An electronic component includes a substrate, a functional element formed on the substrate, a plurality of terminals including a first terminal electrode connected to the functional element and a second terminal electrode layered on the first terminal electrode, and a feed line, one end of which is electrically connected to the first terminal electrode and the other end of which reaches an edge of the substrate, wherein the feed line includes a first portion directly reaching the edge, and a second portion branching from the first portion and then reaching the edge.
US08153472B2	Embedded chip package process An embedded chip package process is disclosed. A first substrate having a first patterned circuit layer is provided. A second substrate having a second patterned circuit layer is provided. A dielectric material layer is formed to cover the first patterned circuit layer. A compression process is performed to cover the second substrate over the dielectric material layer and the second patterned circuit layer is embed into the dielectric material layer. A curing process is performed to cure the dielectric material layer after the step of performing the compression process. At least a conductive plug through the dielectric material layer is formed to electrically connect the first patterned circuit layer to the second patterned circuit layer after the step of performing the curing process. The first substrate, the second substrate and a portion of the at least a conductive plug are removed after the step of forming the conductive through hole.
US08153470B2	Doped elongated semiconductors, growing such semiconductors, devices including such semiconductors, and fabricating such devices A method for selectively aligning and positioning semiconductor nanowires on a substrate by providing a substrate; patterning electrodes on a surface of the substrate; conditioning the surface of the substrate to attach semiconductor nanowires to the surface by functionalizing the surface with a first functional group having an affinity for the semiconductor nanowires; providing an environment in contact with the electrodes, the environment having suspended therein the semiconductor nanowires; and providing an electric field between the electrodes, thereby causing the nanowires in the environment to align between and electrically connect the electrodes to thereby form a semiconducting channel between the electrodes.
US08153467B2	Semiconductor device with groove structure to prevent molding resin overflow over a light receiving region of a photodiode during manufacture and method for manufacturing same A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, includes the steps of: forming a resin layer on an upper surface of a substrate including a photodiode such that the resin layer does not cover a light receiving region of the photodiode; forming at least one groove in the resin layer so as to surround the light receiving region; and subsequently mold-sealing the photodiode by loading the substrate into a mold and filling the mold with a molding resin.
US08153465B2	Image sensor and method for manufacturing the same An image sensor and manufacturing method thereof are provided. The image sensor includes a readout circuitry, an electrical junction region, an interconnection, and an image sensing device. The readout circuitry can be disposed at a first substrate, and the electrical junction region can be electrically connected to the readout circuitry at the first substrate. The interconnection can be disposed in an interlayer dielectric on the first substrate and electrically connected to the electrical junction region. The image sensing device can include a first conductive type layer and a second conductive type layer on the interconnection.
US08153464B2	Wafer singulation process A method of singulating a semiconductor die from a wafer is provided. The method includes etching or cutting several trenches into the wafer from a front surface of the wafer, such that each trench extends along an entire side of the die; depositing a passivation layer into the trenches to form a passivation plug on at least a bottom of the trenches to protect the dies and immobilize them during singulation; and forming a rigid carrier layer or plate at the first side of the wafer to secure the dies. The wafer is then ground from the back side to expose the bottom of each trench, a metal layer is formed on the back surface of the wafer; dicing tape is added, the carrier layer is removed, and the die is separated from the wafer by laser cutting or by flexing the tape.
US08153460B2	Surface mount optoelectronic component with lens having protruding structure The invention relates to a surface mount optoelectronic component with a lens attachment, the method for precising the lens position and the method to manufacture the whole component.
US08153459B2	Organic light emitting diode display and fabricating method thereof An organic light emitting diode display device includes a switch TFT and a drive TFT formed on a substrate; an overcoat layer formed on the TFTs; a drain contact hole exposing portions of a drain electrode of the drive TFT by removing portions of the overcoat layer; a first electrode contacting to the drain electrode of the drive TFT; a bank pattern exposing an aperture area of a pixel; an organic layer formed on the first electrode; and a second electrode formed on the organic layer, wherein the bank pattern blocks regions where the drain contact hole is formed.
US08153457B1	Method for forming light emitting device The invention provides a method for forming a light emitting device. A first substrate is provided. A plurality of patterned masks is formed on the first substrate, or on a semiconductor epitaxial layer grown on the first substrate, or the first substrate is etched to form a plurality of trenches, followed by performing an epitaxial lateral overgrowth process to grow an epitaxy layer over the first substrate. A light emitting structure is formed on the epitaxy layer. A first electrode layer is formed on the light emitting structure. The light emitting structure is wafer bonded to a second substrate. A photoelectrochemical etching process is performed to lift off the first substrate from the epitaxy layer.
US08153456B2	Bifacial solar cell using ion implantation An improved bifacial solar cell is disclosed. In some embodiments, the front side includes an n-type field surface field, while the back side includes a p-type emitter. In other embodiments, the p-type emitter is on the front side. To maximize the diffusion of majority carriers and lower the series resistance between the contact and the substrate, the regions beneath the metal contacts are more heavily doped. Thus, regions of higher dopant concentration are created in at least one of the FSF or the emitter. These regions are created through the use of selective implants, which can be performed on one or two sides of the bifacial solar cell to improve efficiency.
US08153452B2	Manufacturing method of semiconductor device The semiconductor device is formed by forming a first metal film over a first main surface of a semiconductor wafer having a first thickness, performing back grinding to a second main surface of the semiconductor wafer thereby making a second thickness thinner than the first thickness and forming an insulation film pattern having a first insulation film and containing an annular insulation film pattern along the periphery of a second main surface of the semiconductor wafer over the second main surface along the periphery thereof. The second main surface of the semiconductor wafer is bonded to a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet thereby holding the device semiconductor wafer by way of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet to a dicing frame in a state where the insulation film pattern is present.
US08153451B2	System and method for performing semiconductor processing on target substrate A semiconductor process system (10) includes a measuring section (40), an information processing section (51), and a control section (52). The measuring section (40) measures a characteristic of a test target film formed on a target substrate (W) by a semiconductor process. The information processing section (51) calculates a positional correction amount of the target substrate (W) necessary for improving planar uniformity of the characteristic, based on values of the characteristic measured by the measuring section (40) at a plurality of positions on the test target film. The control section (52) controls a drive section (30A, 32A) of a transfer device (30), based on the positional correction amount, when the transfer device (30) transfers a next target substrate (W) to the support member (17) to perform the semiconductor process.
US08153447B2	Nonvolatile ferroelectric perpendicular electrode cell, FeRAM having the cell and method for manufacturing the cell A nonvolatile ferroelectric perpendicular electrode cell comprises a ferroelectric capacitor and a serial PN diode switch. The ferroelectric capacitor includes a word line perpendicular electrode as a first electrode and a storage perpendicular electrode as a second electrode apart at a predetermined interval from the word line perpendicular electrode to have a column type, where a ferroelectric material is filled in a space where the first electrode are separated from the second electrode. The serial PN diode switch, which is connected between a bit line and the ferroelectric capacitor, selectively switches a current direction between the bit line and the ferroelectric capacitor depending on voltage change between the bit line and the ferroelectric capacitor.
US08153444B2	Immuno gold lateral flow assay A chromatographic specific binding assay strip device, comprising: a non-permeable platform strip; a permeable membrane testing strip positioned on top of said non-permeable platform strip, with the testing strip comprising at least one capture reagent site containing a capture reagent for at least one specific analyte, a sample receiving pad positioned on top of and at a proximal end of the non-permeable platform strip, with the sample receiving pad having contact with a proximal end of said permeable membrane testing strip, a reservoir pad positioned on top of and at a distal end of said non-permeable membrane testing strip, with the reservoir pad having contact with a proximal end of said permeable membrane test strip; a supporting strip attached to and extending from the proximal end of said non-permeable platform strip; and a conjugate pad positioned on said supporting strip, said conjugate pad comprising a semi-permeable membrane containing a colorant conjugate. The semi-permeable membrane acts as a barrier between the conjugate pad and the sample receiving pad, regulating the flow through the semi-permeable membrane and overall flow of the assay. By dipping the conjugate pad into a sample solution, there will be increased binding between the analyte in the sample and the conjugate (preferably colloidal gold), thereby giving improved results on the lateral flow assay.
US08153442B2	Stabilization of signal generation in particles used in assays Methods and reagents are disclosed for conducting assays. Embodiments of the present methods and reagents are concerned with a solid support such as, for example, a particle. The support includes a chemiluminescent composition that includes a metal chelate. The present inventors observed that, when such support such as, e.g., particles, were employed in assays for the determination of an analyte, stability of signal output by the chemiluminescent composition associated with the particle was unacceptably reduced as compared to particles including other chemiluminescent compositions. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the stability of signal output from such particles is enhanced by including in a medium that contains the particles a sufficient amount of one or more stabilizing agents, which may be a chelating agent and/or a metal chelate such as, for example, the metal chelate that is associated with the particle.
US08153440B2	Methods for altering surface characteristics of microspheres Various methods for altering surface characteristics of a microsphere are provided. One method includes coupling an enolic acid to the microsphere to modify the surface characteristics of the microsphere. The surface characteristics may include charge density and/or pKa. A reagent can be coupled to the microsphere via the enolic acid. The reagent may include a biomolecule. The modified surface characteristics may increase a stability of the reagent when the reagent is coupled to the microsphere. The modified surface characteristics may also improve performance of an assay carried out with the microsphere. Another embodiment relates to a microsphere that includes an enolic acid coupled to a polymer core of the microsphere such that the enolic acid modifies surface characteristics of the microsphere. A reagent can be coupled to the microsphere via the enolic acid.
US08153439B2	Chemical sensors for detecting volatile organic compounds and methods of use The presently-disclosed subject matter provides sensors and methods for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by determining the conductivity of a chemiresistant film upon exposure to VOCs, including for example chemiresistant films comprised of surfactant-coated metal alloy nanoparticles.
US08153433B1	Mammalian cell lines for increasing longevity and protein yield from a cell culture Disclosed are compositions and methods for increasing the longevity of a cell culture and permitting the increased production of proteins, preferably recombinant proteins, such as antibodies, peptides, enzymes, growth factors, interleukins, interferons, hamiones, and vaccines. Cells transfected with an apoptosis-inhibiting gene or vector, such as a triple mutant Bcl-2 gene, can survive longer in culture, resulting in extension of the state and yield of protein biosynthesis. Such transfected cells exhibit maximal cell densities that equal or exceed the maximal density achieved by the parent cell lines. Transfected cells can also be pre-adapted for growth in serum-free medium, greatly decreasing the time required to obtain protein production in serum-free medium. In certain methods, the pre-adapted cells can be used for protein production following transformation under serum-free conditions. The method preferably involves eukaryotic cells, more preferably mammalian cells.
US08153431B2	Compositions and methods for making mutations in cell lines and animals The present invention is directed generally to reduction or inactivation of gene function or gene expression in cells in vitro and in multicellular organisms. The invention encompasses methods for mutating cells using a combination of mutagens, particularly wherein at least one mutagen is an insertional mutagen, to achieve homozygous gene mutation or mutation of multiple genes required cumulatively to achieve a phenotype to create knock-outs, knock-downs, and other modifications in the same cell. The invention is also directed to cells (and libraries thereof) and organisms created by the methods of the invention, including those in which at least one of the genes created by insertional mutagenesis is tagged by means of the insertion sequences thereby allowing identification of the mutated gene(s). The invention is also directed to libraries of mutated cells and their uses. The invention is also directed to methods of identifying mutations with methods of the invention, in cells (and libraries thereof) and organisms, by means of the insertional tag.
US08153427B2	Cardiomyocytes and methods of producing and purifying cardiomyocytes The invention provides methods for producing a culture of cardiomyocytes and cultures of cardiomyocytes. Exemplary methods of producing and cultures of cardiomyocytes include a population of cells including cells having spontaneous and periodic electrical activity, and/or including nodal, sino-atrial or pacemaker cells; immature cardiomyocytes (cardiomyoblasts); mature contractile cardiomyocytes; or a mixed population of two or more of such cells.
US08153423B2	Pluripotent cells from the mammalian late epiblast layer This invention relates to the isolation and propagation of pluripotent cells isolated from the mammalian late epiblast layer, termed Epiblast Stem Cells' (EpiSCs). These cells are useful in a range of applications, including the generation of transgenic animal species.
US08153421B2	Prostate stem cell We describe a method for the isolation of prostate stem cells, typically prostate stem cells which express CD 133 antigen; stem cells and cancer stem cells isolated by the method and their use.
US08153420B2	Polynucleotides encoding stop codons in multiple reading frames and methods of use Compositions having polynucleotides encoding multiple translational stop signals in more than one reading frame are provided. The compositions include isolated polynucleotides, expression cassettes, and vectors, as well as host cells, prokaryotic organisms, and eukaryotic organisms comprising the polynucleotide(s). Methods include using the polynucleotides to stop translation of an mRNA into a protein, to produce a transformed cell and/or organism comprising the polynucleotide, and to identify transformed cells or organisms of a specific lineage.
US08153411B2	Dehalogenases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them The invention relates to haloalkane dehalogenases and to polynucleotides encoding the haloalkane dehalogenases. In addition methods of designing new dehalogenases and method of use thereof are also provided. The dehalogenases have increased activity and stability at increased pH and temperature.
US08153407B2	Process for producing a triglyceride A process for the production of a composition comprising 1,3-dioleyl-2-palmitoyl glyceride (OPO) comprises subjecting a palm oil stearin, with an iodine value (IV) between about 2 and about 12 to enzymic transesterification, with oleic acid or a non-glyceride ester thereof.
US08153398B2	Polynucleotides encoding signal peptide-containing molecules The invention provides human signal peptide-containing proteins (HSPP) and polynucleotides which identify and encode HSPP. The invention also provides expression vectors, host cells, antibodies, agonists, and antagonists. The invention also provides methods for diagnosing, treating, or preventing disorders associated with expression of HSPP.
US08153394B2	Apparatus and method for detecting bacterial growth beneath a wound dressing An apparatus and method are provided for visually monitoring, detecting, and/or determining the presence, absence, and/or growth of harmful or potentially harmful bacterial microorganisms beneath a wound dressing, in one example used to cover an indwelling central venous catheter or other catheter. A bacteria detection apparatus includes a barrier membrane, a permeable membrane for placement proximate a wound or a catheter insertion site, and an indicator between the barrier membrane and the permeable membrane for indicating the presence of bacteria proximate the permeable membrane. A method of using a bacterial growth detection apparatus is also provided.
US08153392B2	Method(s) of preventing, arresting, reversing and treatment of atherosclerosis A method of detecting, diagnosing and prognosticating atherosclerosis by measuring the activities of Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases is described. It is suggested that enhancing the activities of Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases results in an increase in the plasma, leukocyte, platelet and endothelial cell levels of γ-linolenic, dihomo-γ-linolenic, arachidonic, stearidonic, 20:4 ω-3, eicosapentaneoic and docosahexaenoic acids and PGE1 (prostaglandin E1), prostacyclin (PGI2), prostaglandin I3 (PGI3), lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, nitric oxide, and nitrolipids that prevent, arrest and reverse atherosclerosis. The invention is also directed to the delivery of proteins, peptides, lipids, lipoproteins, glycolipids, statins and troglitazones and their derivatives, and other compounds (synthetic or natural), cDNA clones and genes of Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases to enhance the activities of Δ6 and Δ5 desaturases in vivo to prevent, arrest, reverse and treat atherosclerosis.
US08153391B2	Hydrolases, nucleic acids encoding them and methods for making and using them Provided are hydrolases, including lipases, saturases, palmitases and/or stearatases, and polynucleotides encoding them, and methods of making and using these polynucleotides and polypeptides. Further provided are polypeptides, e.g., enzymes, having a hydrolase activity, e.g., lipases, saturases, palmitases and/or stearatases and methods for preparing low saturate or low trans fat oils, such as low saturate or low trans fat animal or vegetable oils, e.g., soy or canola oils.
US08153388B2	Methods for phenotyping of leukemias Isolated populations of leukemic stem cells are provided. The cells are useful for experimental evaluation, and as a source of lineage and cell specific products, and as targets for the discovery of factors or molecules that can affect them. Detection of leukemic stem cells is useful in predicting disease progression, relapse, and development of drug resistance. Proliferation of LSC may be inhibited through interfering with activation of the β-catenin pathway. Methods are provided for the clinical staging of pre-leukemia and leukemias by differential analysis of hematologic samples for the distribution of one or more hematopoietic stem or progenitor cell subsets.
US08153387B2	Method for immobilizing glycoprotein A method for immobilizing glycoprotein is disclosed. A surface is provided. Next, a boronic acid is contacted to the surface. The boronic acid is represented as Y—R—B—(OH)2 and includes a boronic acid group (B—(OH)2), a linker R, and a functional group Y, in which the boronic acid is bonded to the surface via the functional group Y. A glycoprotein is contacted to the boronic acid, wherein two spatially adjacent hydroxyl groups of a carbohydrate chain form a boronate ester with the boronic acid group of the boronic acid to immobilize the glycoprotein. The goal of site-specific and covalent protein immobilization without interfering the binding affinity of an antibody to antigen may be thus achieved with the reaction of boronic acid and the carbohydrate chain of Fc region.
US08153385B2	Target protein and target gene in drug designing and screening method The present invention provides a novel target protein and a gene for drug discovery, and a means that enables development of a novel pharmaceutical agent by using the same. More particularly, the present invention provides CARP and genes thereof; screening methods for drugs (e.g., antiallergic drugs); a regulator of diseases (e.g., allergic diseases); a drug derivative production method; a complex comprising a drug and CARP, and a production method thereof; kits comprising a drug or a salt thereof; determination methods for the onset or risk of onset of a specified disease, determination methods for susceptibility to a drug, and determination kits used for said methods, and the like.
US08153383B2	Mycobacterial culture screening test for Mycobacterium avium complex bacteria A method of antigen-capture assays that uses the detection of antigens secreted into liquid culture is provided. Also provided are antibodies to Mycobacterium avium complex-specific antigens, and diagnostic kits and systems for the detection of the presence of mycobacteria in liquid samples.
US08153381B2	Methods for detection of the strain of a pathogen Provided are methods and devices for determining the strain of a pathogen in a sample.
US08153380B2	Gene expression markers for colorectal cancer prognosis A method of predicting clinical outcome in a subject diagnosed with colorectal cancer comprising determining evidence of the expression of one or more predictive RNA transcripts or their expression products in a biological sample of cancer cells obtained from the subject.
US08153377B2	Method for detecting and quantifying rare mutations/polymorphisms The present invention is directed to a method for detecting and quantifying rare mutations in a nucleic acid sample. The nucleic acid molecules under investigation can be either DNA or RNA. The rare mutation can be any type of functional or non-functional nucleic acid change or mutation, such as deletion, insertion, translocation, inversion, one or more base substitution or polymorphism. Therefore, the methods of the present invention are useful in detection of rare mutations in, for example, diagnostic, prognostic and follow-up applications, when the targets are rare known nucleic acid variants mixed in with the wildtype or the more common nucleic acid variant(s).
US08153372B2	Method for simultaneously determining in a single multiplex reaction gender of donors and quantities of genomic DNA and ratios thereof, presence and extent of DNA degradation, and PCR inhibition within a human DNA sample Methods are provided for determining, in a single polymerase chain reaction (PCR) reaction, the quantity, quality, and gender of origin of DNA in a sample, and whether or not the sample contains PCR amplification inhibitors. The methods involve carrying out a single PCR multiplex reaction utilizing primer sets specific for amplifying the human amelogenin locus, an X- and/or Y-chromosome specific gene that is shorter than the amelogenin gene, and a heterologous, non-human reporter gene.
US08153365B2	Oligonucleotide analogues The present invention relates to novel bicyclic and tricyclic nucleoside and nucleotide analogues as well as to oligonucleotides comprising such elements. The nucleotide analogues, LNAs (Locked Nucleoside Analogues), are able to provide valuable improvements to oligonucleotides with respect to affinity and specificity towards complementary RNA and DNA oligomers. The novel type of LNA modified oligonucleotides, as well as the LNAs as such, are useful in a wide range of diagnostic applications as well as therapeutic applications. Among these can be mentioned antisense applications, PCR applications, strand displacement oligomers, as substrates for nucleic acid polymerases, as nucleotide based drugs, etc. The present invention also relates to such applications.
US08153355B2	Immersion supporting plate cleaning method and a pattern forming method An immersion supporting plate cleaning method of cleaning an immersion supporting plate provided around a substrate to be processed in immersion exposure. An immersion boundary between an immersion area contact part and an immersion area noncontact part on the immersion supporting plate formed when an immersion area is moved according to a predetermined exposure area and an exposure map is determined in advance. Then, the immersion supporting plate is cleaned while a cleaning jig is being moved along the determined immersion boundary.
US08153352B2	Multicolored mask process for making display circuitry A process for forming a pixel circuit is disclosed comprising: (a) providing a transparent support; (b) forming a multicolor mask having at least four different color patterns; (c) forming integrated electronic components of the pixel circuit having at least four layers of patterned functional material comprising a first conductor, a dielectric, a semiconductor, and a second conductor each layer of patterned functional material corresponding to the four different color patterns of the multicolor mask. The functional material is patterned using a photopattern corresponding to each color pattern.
US08153349B2	Polymer composition, hardmask composition having antireflective properties, and associated methods A polymer composition includes an aromatic ring-containing polymer represented by Formula 1: wherein m and n satisfy the relations 1≦m<190, 0≦n<190, and 1≦m+n<190.
US08153346B2	Thermally cured underlayer for lithographic application An etch resistant thermally curable Underlayer composition for use in a multiplayer lithographic process for producing a photolithographic bilayer coated substrate, the composition being a composition of: (a) a polymer comprising repeating units of Structure I, II and III (b) at least one crosslinking agent; (c) at least one thermal acid generator; and (d) at least one solvent.
US08153342B2	Developer, and image forming apparatus and image forming method using the developer A developer including a toner and a carrier, wherein the carrier is a ferrite carrier coated with a silicone resin and the following relationships are satisfied: log(ΔQ(t)/Q∞)=−kobt ΔQ(t)=Q∞−Q(t) −2.5 ≦log(kob)≦−1 wherein Q(t) is a charge quantity (μC/g) of the developer after t sec which is a stirring time of the toner and the carrier; Q∞ is a saturated charge quantity (μC/g) of the developer; and kob is a chargeable speed of the developer.
US08153328B2	Carbon fuel cells with carbon corrosion suppression An electrochemical cell apparatus that can operate as either a fuel cell or a battery includes a cathode compartment, an anode compartment operatively connected to the cathode compartment, and a carbon fuel cell section connected to the anode compartment and the cathode compartment. An effusion plate is operatively positioned adjacent the anode compartment or the cathode compartment. The effusion plate allows passage of carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide exhaust channels are operatively positioned in the electrochemical cell to direct the carbon dioxide from the electrochemical cell.
US08153319B2	System and method for purging condensate from an electrochemical cell stack prior to operation A system and technique for purging condensate from an electrochemical cell stack prior to operating the stack in one of a power producing mode of operation and an electrochemical pumping mode of operation is provided. The system and technique include storing hydrogen in the anode and cathode chambers of the stack to place the stack in a shutdown state, purging the anode and cathode chambers of condensate prior to starting operation of the stack, and preventing a fuel starvation condition in the stack while purging by sequencing communication of a fuel flow and an oxidant flow to the anode chamber with an oxidant flow to the cathode chamber while purging the condensate.
US08153310B2	Electronic apparatus system According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus system includes an electronic apparatus and a fuel cell device which supplies electricity to the electronic apparatus. The electronic apparatus includes a housing, a heat generating component located in the housing, and a thermal radiation mechanism. The fuel cell device includes an electromotive section which has an anode and a cathode and generates the electricity based on a chemical reaction, a fuel tank containing a fuel, a circulation system which allows air and a fuel supplied from the fuel tank to circulate through the electromotive section, and a gas purifying filter arranged in the circulation system and having a catalyst section which decontaminates a gas component in an exhaust from the electromotive section. The gas purifying filter is located adjacent to the thermal radiation mechanism so as to be heatable by heat from the radiation mechanism.
US08153308B2	Hydrogen storage electrode An electrode includes a hydrogen storage material wherein the electrode has a discharge capacity of greater than about 200 mHh/g. The electrode may include an electrically conductive substrate; and a material capable of storing hydrogen on a surface thereof supported by the substrate. The hydrogen storage material is formed by contacting a powder composition with a first solution prior to electrode fabrication and by contacting the hydrogen storage material to a second solution subsequent to electrode fabrication; and the first solution comprises a first reducing agent and a first alkaline base, and the second solution comprises a second reducing agent and a second alkaline base.
US08153304B2	Method of using cyclic pressure to increase the pressed density of electrodes for use in electrochemical cells The traditional method of building a CFx/current collector/SVO assembly is by the application of a static pressing force. However, the density of the electrode and, particularly the CFx component, can be increase by using a cyclic pressing protocol. That is where the active materials are formed into a blank or contacted to a current collector by the use of at least two pressing events separated by a period when the pressure is removed. Not only does this cyclic pressing protocol increase the density of the CFx material, it also provides an electrode that is relatively flat, and not cupped. Conventional pressing techniques often result in badly cupped electrodes, especially when disparate active materials are contacting opposite sides of the current collector. Cupping consequently reduces the effective volumetric energy density of the electrode or necessitates the addition of a process step of flattening of the cathode, if at all possible. According to the new cyclic pressing protocol, the physical density of the cathode is increased and electrode cupping is effectively eliminated.
US08153302B2	Method of producing active material for lithium secondary battery, method of producing electrode for lithium secondary battery, method of producing lithium secondary battery, and method of monitoring quality of active material for lithium secondary battery A method of producing an active material for a lithium secondary battery, by which impurities causing problems in synthesizing an active material for a lithium secondary battery, including a lithium transition metal oxyanion compound are removed efficiently and enhancement of an energy density is realized, is provided. By cleaning the active material for a lithium secondary battery, including a lithium transition metal oxyanion compound, with a pH buffer solution, for example, it is possible to efficiently remove just only impurities such as Li3PO4 or Li2CO3, or a substance, other than LiFePO4, in which the valence of Fe is bivalent such as FeSO4, FeO or Fe3(PO4)2 without dissolving Fe of LiFePO4.
US08153286B2	Perfluorocarbon ionomer membrane with high proton conductivity and preparation thereof The present invention provides a perfluorocarbon ionomer membrane with aligned fibril-like nanostructures and its preparation method.
US08153285B2	Micro fuel cell A fuel cell, fuel cell array and methods of forming the same are disclosed. The fuel cell can be made by forming a first aperture defined by a first aperture surface through a first electrode layer and forming a second aperture defined by a second aperture surface through a second electrode layer. A proton exchange membrane is laminated between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer. At least a portion of the first aperture is at least partially aligned with the second aperture.
US08153282B2	Solar cell with antireflective coating with graded layer including mixture of titanium oxide and silicon oxide There is provided a coated article (e.g., solar cell) that includes an improved anti-reflection (AR) coating. This AR coating functions to reduce reflection of light from a glass substrate, thereby allowing more light within the solar spectrum to pass through the incident glass substrate. In certain example embodiments, the AR coating includes a graded base layer having a varying refractive index value, and an overcoat layer which may be provided for destructive interference purposes.
US08153279B2	Organic electroluminescent compounds and organic electroluminescent device using the same Provided are novel organic electroluminescent compounds, and organic electroluminescent devices and organic solar cells employing the same. Specifically, the organic electroluminescent compounds according to the invention are characterized in that they are represented by Chemical Formula (1): wherein, A, B, C and D independently represent CR5 or N, provided that A, B, C and D cannot represent CR5 all at the same time. Since the organic electroluminescent compounds according to the invention have good luminous efficiency and excellent color purity and life property of material, OLED's having very good operation life can be manufactured therefrom.
US08153277B2	Compound having thiadiazole ring structure substituted with pyridyl group and organic electroluminescent device An object of the present invention is to provide an organic compound having excellent characteristics, which is excellent in electron injection/transport performance, has hole blocking property and is high in stability in a thin film state, as a material for an organic EL device having high efficiency and high durability, and further to provide an organic EL device having high efficiency and high durability using this compound. The invention relates to a compound represented by general formula (1), which has a thiadiazole ring structure substituted with a substituted pyridyl group, and to an organic EL device having a pair of electrodes and at least one organic layer interposed therebetween, wherein the compound is contained as a constituent material of at least one of the organic layer(s).
US08153273B2	Surface treated electrodeposited copper foil and circuit board A surface treated electrodeposited copper foil having a smooth M surface; a surface treatment is performed on the M surface being an opposite surface of a surface which contacted with a drum in an electrodeposited copper foil, wherein Rz is 1.0 μm or smaller and Ra is 0.2 μm or smaller on the M surface, electrodeposited copper plating is performed to produce a copper foil under a condition of using a copper sulfate bath, wherein a copper concentration is 50 to 80 g/l, a sulfuric acid concentration is 30 to 70 g/l, a solution temperature is 35 to 45° C., a chloride concentration is 0.01 to 30 ppm, an adding concentration of a total of an organic sulfur based compound, low molecular weight glue and polymeric polysaccharide is 0.1 to 100 ppm and TOC is 400 ppm or smaller, and a current density is 20 to 50 A/dm2.
US08153272B1	Composite articles made by joining brass part and silicon carbide ceramic part A process for joining a brass part and a silicon carbide ceramic part comprising: providing a brass part, a SiC ceramic part, a Al foil and a Ni foil; placing the SiC ceramic part, the Al foil, the Ni foil, and the brass part into a mold, the Al foil and the Ni foil located between the SiC ceramic part and the brass part, the Al foil abutting against the SiC ceramic part, the Ni foil abutting against the brass part and the Al foil; placing the mold into a chamber of an hot press sintering device, heating the chamber and pressing the brass part, the SiC ceramic part, the Al foil, and the Ni foil at least until the brass part, the SiC ceramic part, the Al foil and the Ni foil form a integral composite article.
US08153267B2	Composition and organic insulator prepared using the same Disclosed are a composition including a silane-based organic/inorganic hybrid material having a multiple bond and one or more organic metal compounds and/or one or more organic polymers, an organic insulator including the composition, an organic thin film transistor (OTFT) including the organic insulator and an electronic device including the OTFT. The organic insulator including the composition for preparing an organic insulator has increased charge mobility and an increased on/off current ratio, thus exhibiting improved properties, and the organic thin film transistor manifests uniform properties due to the absence of hysteresis.
US08153264B2	Surface covering which is hardened in several stages The invention relates to a method of sealing at least part of the surface of an article, comprising the steps of (a) applying a layer of a radiation-curable melt based on a moisture-crosslinking polyurethane to at least part of the surface of the article, and (b) irradiating the melt layer. The invention further relates to article surfaces sealed in this way, and also to the use of the abovementioned melt for surface sealing.
US08153260B2	Composite material A composite material obtained by laminating (A) a layer formed from an epoxy resin curing composition and (B) a layer of a polyimide to each other. The composite material is preferably obtained by applying the epoxy resin curing composition to at least one side of a polyimide film or sheet. The epoxy resin curing composition includes a curing agent containing a polyamide compound having a repeat unit comprising a phenolic hydroxyl group containing structure represented by the following formula (I) or (II): In formula (I), ring A and R each represent a phenylene group or a naphthylene group, each of which may be substituted with a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. In formula (II), ring B is an arylene group having 6 to 18 carbon atoms or an alkylidenediarylene group having 13 to 25 carbon atoms, each of which may be substituted with a halogen atom, a hydroxyl group or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.
US08153259B2	Ceramic sheet product and method of manufacturing the same There is provided a ceramic sheet product having a binder layer separately formed in a lower portion thereof to increase stackability and to reduce generation of pores after binder burnout, and a method thereof. The ceramic sheet product includes a binder layer formed of a binder resin; and a ceramic green sheet form on the binder layer. This reduces an amount of high polymer binder in a ceramic slurry, increasing a ceramic powder fraction. Due to such a high density of the green sheet, the number of pores formed after the binder burnout is very small, which decreases volume shrinkage and increases density.
US08153258B2	Molded assembly having a reduced tendency to squeak and a method of manufacturing the assembly The invention relates to a molded assembly having reduced squeaking and rattling. The molded assembly includes a first component of a vehicle that has a first surface. The assembly also includes a second component of a vehicle having a second surface. The second component is assembled to the first component. An isolator is disposed between the first and second components and is secured to the first surface. The isolator comprises an injection-moldable self-lubricating elastomer impregnated with a fatty amide. An interface between the isolator and the second surface has a ratio of a co-efficient of static friction to a co-efficient of dynamic friction less than 1.4.
US08153255B2	Ceramic particle group comprising sintered particles of hydroxyapatite A ceramic particle group dispersed in a solvent in a state of primary particles of single crystal, a method for production thereof and a use thereof are disclosed. In one embodiment a method is disclosed for producing a sintered particle (ceramic particle) group of hydroxyapatite (HAp), which includes a step of subjecting a system wherein calcium carbonate is present between primary particles of hydroxyapatite (HAp) to sintering and then dissolving calcium carbonate with water to remove calcium carbonate. A hydroxyapatite (HAp) sintered particle group produced by the above method is a nanometer size particle group having a particle diameter of about 70 to about 120 nm, and is a particle group having a uniform particle diameter (coefficient of variation: 12%), and further 96% of the particle group is dispersed as a single crystal particle.
US08153250B2	Double-faced pressure-sensitive adhesive tape Disclosed is a double-faced pressure-sensitive adhesive tape which includes a foam substrate, one pressure-sensitive adhesive layer arranged on or above one side of the substrate, and another pressure-sensitive adhesive layer arranged on or above the other side of the substrate. The adhesive tape has a total thickness of 250 μm or less. The adhesive tape is thin but highly waterproof (sealable against water). The adhesive tape preferably has a tensile strength of 0.5 to 20 MPa for further superior processability.
US08153246B2	Optical compensatory film, polarizing plate, and liquid crystal display device An optical compensatory film comprising an optically anisotropic layer composed of a liquid crystal composition including a liquid crystal compound, wherein the liquid crystal composition contains a copolymer including a repeating unit derived from a monomer of formula [1] and a repeating unit derived from a monomer of formula [2]: wherein R0 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or an alkyl group, L represents a divalent linking group, and n represents an integer of 1-18; wherein R11 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom or an alkyl group, L11 represents a divalent linking group, and R13, R14 and R15 represents a hydrocarbon group or an aromatic heterocyclic group.
US08153245B2	Composite product An exemplary composite product and method of manufacturing is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes dewatering a first slurry through a dewatering belt to form a first substrate layer, applying a first functional layer onto at least a portion of the first substrate layer, and dewatering a second slurry through the dewatering belt to form a second substrate layer. A first side of the second substrate layer may be overlayed onto the first functional layer, and the layers may be cured, and the layers bonded.
US08153244B2	Reinforcement patches with unidirectionally-aligned fibers Reinforcement patches comprising a mastic and a plurality of unidirectionally-aligned fibers at least partially embedded in a first major surface of the mastic are described. Generally, at least 90% of the unidirectionally-aligned fibers are oriented having an axis of alignment within +/−10 degrees of the average axis of alignment of the unidirectionally-aligned fibers. Reinforcement patches that include an encapsulating resin and a cover layer are also described. Methods of reinforcing a panel using reinforcement panels, and panels reinforced with the patches are also disclosed.
US08153243B2	Interpolymers suitable for multilayer films The present invention relates to compositions and processes of making and using interpolymers having a controlled molecular weight distribution. Multilayer films and film layers derived from novel ethylene/α-olefin interpolymers are also disclosed.
US08153234B2	Floor panel and method for manufacturing a floor panel Floor panel, whereby this floor panel (1) includes a decor (8), as well as a top layer or laminate layer (9) on the basis of synthetic material (10), and whereby the decorative side (16) of the floor panel (1) imitates a wood pattern, wherein the floor panel (1), at its upper surface, has zones (22-23) of different gloss degrees, which extend over the upper surface as a function of the imitated global wood pattern.
US08153224B2	Process for connecting two fabric pieces, and seam of two fabric pieces The invention relates to a method for connecting two fabric pieces (11, 12). Said method comprises the following steps: a) two fabric pieces (11, 12) are joined together at a joint (18), said fabric pieces (11, 12) being provided with an elastomer coating on one side (11a, 12a) and a thermoplastic coating on a second side (11b, 12b); b) the joint (18) is covered on the first side (11a, 12a) of the fabric pieces (11, 12) by means of a first seam strip (15) that is provided with an elastomer coating on the side (15a) facing the fabric pieces (11, 12), while the joint (18) is covered on the second side (11b, 12b) of the fabric pieces (11, 12) by means of a second seam strip (16) that has a thermoplastic coating on the side (16b) facing the fabric pieces (11, 12); c) the fabric pieces (11, 12) are connected to the first seam strip (15) by curing at least one of the elastomer coatings, and the fabric pieces (11, 12) are connected to the second seam strip (16) by treating the thermoplastic coatings. The invention further relates to a seam (20) of two fabric pieces (11, 12).
US08153221B1	Adhesive device for securing clothing An adhesive device for securing clothing is provided. The adhesive device includes a flexible substrate having opposing faces. Each opposing face has an adhesive deposited thereon forming a first adhesive surface and an opposing second adhesive surface. An aperture is formed in a central portion of the adhesive device.
US08153220B2	Metallic T-joint patch A metallic T-joint patch is provided for application to intersecting and overlapping portions of a single ply membrane system of different heights. When applied to the joint formed by the intersecting and overlapping membranes, the metallic joint patch having an adhesive layer conforms to the void formed by the joint and assures a water tight seal. A method of making a metallic joint patch and a method of applying a metallic joint patch to a void formed by intersecting and overlapping membranes are also disclosed.
US08153219B2	Tape and method of a manufacturing the same A tape for closing an opening in at least substantially dustproof but ventilating manner includes an elongate strip of fabric (10) with an open pore structure (11). The strip is provided according to a pattern (13) with a layer which at least substantially completely closes the pores locally and on a rear side with a glue layer in opposite edge parts (12). The glue layer is arranged between the edge parts (12) in accordance with the pattern and at least almost completely closes the pores (11) locally.
US08153217B2	Reinforced polypropylene pipe A single- or multilayer threaded pipe, wherein at least one layer is produced from a polyolefin composition comprising (percentages express on the basis of the sum of components (A) and (B)): (A) 65-90 wt % of a heterophasic polypropylene composition comprising (percentages expressed on the basis of the polypropylene composition): (1) 65-95 wt % of a propylene polymer selected from propylene homopolymer and co- and terpolymers of propylene with a comonomer selected from ethylene, a C4-C10 alpha-olefin and a mixture thereof, said polymer containing 0.1-10 wt % of comonomer units, being insoluble in xylene at 25° C. in an amount over 85 wt %, having a polydispersity index ranging from 4 to 13 and an intrinsic viscosity ([η]1) value of over 2.2 dl/g; and (2) 5-35 wt % of an olefin polymer of ethylene with propylene or a C4-C10 alpha-olefin having an ethylene content ranging from 15 to 85 wt % and an intrinsic viscosity of the fraction soluble in xylene ([η]2) of at least 1.4 dl/g; wherein the ratio of the intrinsic viscosity value of propylene polymer (1) to that of olefin polymer (2) ([η]/[η]2) ranges from 0.45 to 1.6; and (B) 10-35 wt % of a at least one filler selected among calcium carbonate, talc, wollastonite or mixtures thereof.
US08153210B2	Recording medium, method for manufacturing same, and inkjet recording method A recording medium in which a base paper, a first layer including a binder and an antistatic agent, and a second layer including a white pigment are formed in this order; the content of the antistatic agent is from 0.2% by mass to 10% by mass based on an amount obtained by removing the antistatic agent from all solids in the first layer; the Cobb water absorption degree within a contact time of 120 sec at a surface of the first layer of the base paper provided with the first layer is 2.0 g/m2 or less, and the surface resistivity at 50% RH and 23° C. on the surface is 1×1012Ω or less; and the water absorption amount within a contact time of 0.5 sec determined by a Bristow test at a surface of the second layer is from 2 mL/m2 to 8 mL/m2.
US08153206B2	Anti-soil silicone varnish compositions and support substrates treated therewith Silicone compositions, particularly for the production of anti-fouling varnishes which may be applied to flexible or bulk supports to provide an anti-fouling silicone varnish for textiles coated with elastomeric silicones which is economical, adhesive, low-slip and glossy; these are crosslinked silicone compositions comprising: A. at least one alkenylsilane, B. at least one catalytic system which comprises: B/1 at least one organometallic condensation catalyst, B/2 at least one metal M chelate and/or one metal alkoxide of general formula M(OJ)n, wherein n=valence of M and J=linear or branched C1-C8 alkyl radical, M being selected from among: Ti, Zr, Ge and Al, C. at least one ultrafine filler, D. optionally, at least one arylsilane other than A. E. optionally, at least one other silane other than A. and other than D., F. optionally, at least one thickening agent and G. optionally, at least one functional additive.
US08153199B2	Coatings comprising polysilazanes for preventing scaling and corrosion A coating for surfaces, comprising at least one of the polysilazanes having the formula 1 and/or formula 2 where n is an integer and is dimensioned such that the perhydropolysilazane has a number-average molecular weight of 150 to 150 000 g/mol, a solvent and a catalyst and, if desired, one or more cobinders, for preventing scaling and corrosion on metal surfaces. The hardened coating has a thickness of 0.2-10 micrometers, preferably 0.3 to 5 micrometers. It is particularly useful as a protective coating for metals for preventing scaling and corrosion.
US08153197B2	Coating compositions, articles, and methods of coating articles Coating compositions, articles, and methods of coating articles are provided. The coating compositions and methods provide abrasion resistant formable coatings when cured on a substrate. The articles can be formed after the coating compositions are applied to a substrate and cured.
US08153196B2	Coating compositions, articles, and methods of coating articles Coating compositions, articles, and methods of coating articles are provided. The coating compositions and methods provide abrasion resistant formable coatings when cured on a substrate. The articles can be formed after the coating compositions are applied to a substrate and cured.
US08153195B2	Dot size controlling primer coating for radiation curable ink jet inks The present invention provides a printing method for printing radiation-curable ink jet ink printing comprising a clear coat primer composition comprising: a low surface tension monofunctional alkyl acrylate monomer with a surface tension in the range of 23 to 31 dynes/cm in which the alkyl group has at least 8 carbon atoms; a photoinitiator; and other UV curable monomers and oligomers. The clear coat primer composition is applied first onto a substrate and cured with actinic radiation or cationic curable ink jet ink is printed on the surface of the clear coat primer coating.
US08153192B2	Method of forming a composite The invention relates to a method of forming a composite, to composites and devices produced by said method, and to uses thereof.
US08153187B2	Method for oxidising a thermocouple sheath A method for forming an oxygen resistant aluminum oxide layer on an outer surface of a thermocouple sheath composed of a nickel alloy containing between 1% to 7% aluminum comprises removing a pre-formed oxide layer from the outer surface so as to create a prepared sheath; performing a controlled oxidation by subjecting the prepared sheath to atmospheric conditions at a temperature between 1000° C. and 1250° C. so as to form the oxygen resistant layer on the thermocouple sheath and to thus form an oxidized sheath; and cooling the oxidized sheath so as to prepare the oxidized sheath for service.
US08153183B2	Adjustable platform assembly for digital manufacturing system A platform assembly for use in a digital manufacturing system, where the platform assembly comprises a deformable platform having a surface configured to operably receive a deposited material from a deposition head, and at least one mechanism configured to adjust at least a portion of the first surface to compensate for at least one vertical deviation from at least one horizontal axis that the deposition head is directed to move in.
US08153182B2	Adjustable head mount for digital manufacturing system A head mount for use in a digital manufacturing system, where the head mount comprises a first component supported by at least one gantry of the digital manufacturing system, and a second component configured to retain a deposition head of the digital manufacturing system, and to move relative to the first component in response to a load applied to the deposition head from a platform assembly of the digital manufacturing system.
US08153180B2	Method and apparatus for making beverages A process for making stable and uniformly dispersed oil-in-water beverage emulsions is provided. The process comprises combining an oil mixture and an aqueous mixture to form a beverage pre-emulsion; in-line mixing of the beverage pre-emulsion; and homogenizing of the beverage pre-emulsion to form a stable and uniformly dispersed beverage emulsion.
US08153176B2	Biodegradable protein based thermoset compositions, preparation methods and applications thereof The present invention relates to biodegradable protein based thermoset compositions formulated from a powder of a dry and finely ground protein material, from which the water has been thoroughly removed, an anhydrous and liquid alcohol and other optional additives. The inventions also relates to the method for obtaining these compositions in which the components are homogeneously mixed, under controlled conditions of temperature and moisture, to obtain a homogenous and shelf-cohesive mass, that can be shaped in any predetermined form by diverse molding methods, being readily set through the application of a certain amount of heat during a short period of time, which enables it to turn into a solid shaped body or article through a very simple process.
US08153175B2	Method of producing GABA-containing fermented product It is intended to provide a method of efficiently producing a fermented fruit or vegetable product which contains GABA at an elevated concentration without damaging the inherent flavor of the fruit or the vegetable. A method of producing a fermented product containing γ-aminobutyric acid which is characterized by comprising fermenting a plant or its press juice by using Enterococcus avium in the presence of glutamic acid or its salt and sake cake or its extract.
US08153172B2	Composition to enhance the bioavailability of curcumin A composition having a curcuminoid and an essential oil of turmeric. A composition having a curcuminoid and an essential oil of turmeric, wherein the essential oil is present in an amount sufficient to cause an enhancement of bioavailability of curcumin when the composition is administered to a human as compared to bioavailability of curcumin obtained upon administration of a composition prepared without adding essential oil to the curcuminoid. A method to prepare a composition having a curcuminoid and an essential oil of turmeric.
US08153170B2	Jucara and acai fruit-based dietary supplements The present invention relates to stable, palatable, freeze-dried, fruit-based compositions. Specifically, the inventions relates to compositions of Açai fruit and Jucara fruit with high antioxidant capability and cyclooxygenase-inhibitory activity, and their uses. The invention further provides for methods of making stable, palatable, freeze-dried, fruit-based compositions from Açai fruit and Jucara fruit.
US08153168B2	Stabilized anthocyanin Compositions The invention describes stabile anthocyanin compositions, methods to prepare such compositions and also methods of use of such compositions to treat various afflictions. The present invention describes unique compositions of an anthocyanin and a stabilizing compound such that the combination of the two components provides that the anthocyanin does not readily undergo degradation, such as oxidation, pH instability, etc.
US08153165B2	Preparation and use for reducing the damaging effect of ammonia on organisms living in water The invention describes novel preparations and their use for reducing the acute damaging effect of ammonia in organisms living in the keeping water of aquariums, garden ponds, or aquaculture systems. The preparations consist of adducts of sodium hydrogen sulfite at an aliphatic aldehyde of the general formula X—(CH2)n—CO—H, wherein n means the numbers 0 to 3, and X means an —OH, —COOH, or —CO—H group, wherein X cannot be —OH, if n=0. The preparations are used in the keeping water with a concentration of 10 to 140 mg/l.
US08153159B2	Modafinil modified release pharmaceutical compositions Pharmaceutical compositions comprising modafinil. The pharmaceutical compositions can have a release profile which is different than that of traditional pharmaceutical compositions of modafinil.
US08153157B2	Porous cellulose aggregate and molding composition thereof A porous cellulose aggregate characterized by having a secondary aggregate structure resulting from aggregation of primary cellulose particles, having a pore volume within a particle of 0.265 to 2.625 cm3/g, containing I-type crystals and having an average particle size of over 30 to 250 μm, a specific surface area of 0.1 to less than 20 m2/g, a repose angle of 25° to less than 44° and a swelling degree of 5% or more, and characterized by having the property of disintegrating in water.
US08153152B2	Oral drug delivery system Dosage forms and drug delivery devices suitable for administration of pharmaceutical compounds and compositions, including the oral drug administration of compounds.
US08153149B2	Controlled delivery system The present invention relates to novel anesthetic compositions containing a non-polymeric carrier material and an anesthetic, where the compositions are suitable for providing a sustained local anesthesia without an initial burst and having a duration for about 24 hours or longer. Certain compositions are also provided that include a first anesthetic and a second anesthetic. In such compositions, the second anesthetic is a solvent for the first anesthetic and provides an initial anesthetic effect upon administration to a subject. The non-polymeric carrier may optionally be a high viscosity liquid carrier material such as a suitable sugar ester. The compositions can further include one or more additional ingredients including active and inactive materials. Methods of using the compositions of the invention to produce a sustained anesthetic effect at a site in a subject are also provided.
US08153146B2	Pesticide and fungicide treatments made from hop extracts The invention is an organic pesticide or fungicide made from components of hop extract by preparing stable aqueous emulsions of hop acids and other hop extract components. The hop acids and other hop extract components are suspended as stable, colloidal preparations in water, which can be sprayed on plants for pest control.
US08153145B2	Formulations of bifenthrin and enriched cypermethrin The present invention is directed to novel insecticidal compositions comprising bifenthrin and enriched cypermethrin, the compositions are physically stable when diluted with water.
US08153142B2	Skin treatment composition A skin treatment composition of the present invention is an external composition for skin comprising an alkylene oxide derivative expressed by Formula (I): R1O-[(AO)m(EO)n]—R2 (I) wherein AO is an oxyalkylene group of C3 or C4; EO is an oxyethylene group; m and n are 1≦m≦70 and 1≦n≦70 respectively, wherein EO is 20˜80% by weight with respect to a total of AO and EO; each of R1 and R2 is a hydrogen or a hydrocarbon group having C1-4. The alkylene oxide derivative (I) has a moisturizing effect, a rough skin improving effect, a stickiness improving effect, and a transdermal absorption promoting effect. When a refreshing agent is used together therewith in the composition of the present invention, the refreshing effect lasts for a long time and it is excellent in feeling of use without skin stimulation.
US08153138B2	Recombinant MVA virus The present invention relates to recombinant vaccinia viruses derived from the modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) and containing and capable of expressing foreign genes which are inserted at the site of a naturally occurring deletion in the MVA genome, and the use of such recombinant MVA viruses for the production of polypeptides, e.g. antigens or therapeutic agents, or viral vectors for gene therapy, and the use of such recombinant MVA viruses encoding antigens as vaccines.
US08153136B2	Yeast-based vaccines as immunotherapy Compositions and methods for treating and/or preventing a variety of diseases and conditions that are amenable to immunotherapy and, in one particular embodiment, compositions and methods for treating and/or preventing cancer in an animal are described. Specifically improvements related to the use of a yeast-based vaccine comprising a yeast vehicle and an antigen that is selected to elicit an antigen-specific cellular and humoral immune response in an animal, for use in prophylactic and/or therapeutic vaccination and the prevention and/or treatment of a variety of diseases and conditions are disclosed.
US08153135B2	Polysaccharide-polypeptide conjugate Disclosed is a method of producing a polysaccharide-polypeptide conjugate by reacting a polysaccharide with a polypeptide which contains at least one free amino group, wherein a polysaccharide carrier comprising vicinal hydroxyl groups is oxidized under ring opening to create vicinal aldehyde groups and is reacted with one or more base-instable antigenic polypeptide(s) containing at least one free amino group, the polypeptide(s) being bound directly to the polysaccharide carrier via at least one azomethine bond.
US08153133B2	High potency recombinant antibodies and method for producing them High potency antibodies, including immunologically active fragments thereof, having high kinetic association rate constants and optional high affinities are disclosed, along with methods for producing such antibodies. The high potency antibodies disclosed herein are of either the neutralizing or non-neutralizing type and have specificity for antigens displayed by microorganisms, especially viruses, as well as antigenic sites present on cancer cells and on various types of toxins, and the products of toxins. Processes for producing high potency neutralizing antibodies and increasing the potency of already existing neutralizing antibodies are also described. Methods of using said antibodies in the prevention and/or treatment of diseases, especially diseases induced or caused by viruses, are disclosed.
US08153129B2	Antibodies against human cytimegalovirus (HCMV) The present invention provides novel antibody sequences that bind human cytomegalovirus (hCMV) and neutralize hCMV infection. The novel sequences can be used for the medical management of hCMV infections, in particular for preparing pharmaceutical compositions to be used in the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of hCMV infections.
US08153128B2	Antibodies specific for the complex of interleukin-6 and the interleukin-6 receptor Binding members, especially antibody molecules that bind the IL-6:IL-6Ra complex formed by IL-6 and IL-6Ra, and do not bind either IL-6 or IL-6Ra alone. The binding members may have greater specificity for inhibiting pathological effects of IL-6 rather than beneficial effects of IL-6, as compared with binding members that bind IL-6 or IL-6Ra outside the IL-6:IL-6Ra complex.
US08153127B2	Method of treating depression The present invention relates to a method for identifying a TMEFF2 modulator, comprising (a) contacting a cell which expresses TMEFF2 with a candidate compound to be tested; (b) measuring whether said compound to be tested decreases or increases the level of a constituent of the cAMP signalling pathway, preferably the CRH signalling pathway, in said cell when compared to a corresponding cell which does not express TMEFF2; (b′) optionally determining whether said compound is capable of reduncing the binding between Activin and TMEFF2; and (c) identifying said modulator compound. Furthermore, a method for identifying a TMEFF2 modulator comprising determining whether said TMEFF2 modulator is capable of reducing the binding between Activin and TMEFF2 is contemplated. It also relates to uses and methods applying a TMEFF2 agonist for the treatment of Cushing's Syndromes and a TMEFF2 modulator for the treatment of affective disorders. Furthermore, methods of diagnosing affective disorders or Cushing's Syndromes are provided.
US08153126B2	Anti-αvβ6 antibodies Monoclonal antibodies that specifically bind to □v□□. Also included are methods of using these antibodies to treat mammals having or at risk of having □v□6-mediated diseases, or to diagnose □V□6-mediated diseases.
US08153125B2	CD20 binding molecules The present invention relates to CD20 binding molecules and nucleic acid sequences encoding CD20 binding molecules. In particular, the present invention relates to CD20 binding molecules with a high binding affinity, and a low dissociation rate, with regard to human CD20. Preferably, the CD20 binding molecules of the present invention comprise light and/or heavy chain variable regions with fully human frameworks (e.g. human germline frameworks).
US08153120B2	Methods for inducing a natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune response and for increasing NK cell activity The present invention relates to the discovery of novel methods of inducing a natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune response and increasing NK activity in a mammal for the treatment of tumors and virus infections. The method comprises the steps of isolating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from the subject, exposing the PBMCs in vitro to protein conjugate comprising granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) covalently linked to a soluble peptide antigen, under conditions effective to activate the PBMCs, and administering the activated PBMCs to the subject. The invention also relates to a method of detecting in a subject a cytotoxic NK cell-meditated immune response or NK cell activity in vitro by CD336 expression and/or lysis of the K562 tumor line. The invention further relates to a method for determining whether a subject has had a therapeutically effective response to a protein conjugate by assessing the NK activity of activated PBMCs from the subject.
US08153117B2	Chondrocyte therapeutic delivery system Methods and compositions for producing therapeutic agents using chondrocytes are provided. The genetically engineered chondrocytes can be used to express the therapeutic agent in a subject, including in an environment typically associated with chondrocytes and in an environment not typically associated with chondrocytes.
US08153116B2	Use of conditional plasmodium strains lacking an essential gene in malaria vaccination The present invention relates to a malaria vaccine for administration to a host, comprising an attenuated malarial parasite with a gene that has been rendered non-functional, wherein the gene, when present in naturally occurring form, encodes a protein necessary for continued in vivo survival and proliferation of the parasite and/or for infection of host red blood cells. The gene that has been rendered non-functional can be, e.g., a gene that encodes a nutrient transporter protein or a gene that encodes an enzyme involved in phospholipid biosynthesis. The invention also provides kits and methods that include such attenuated malarial parasites.
US08153115B2	Virus-like particles for treatment of viral infections The invention provides virus-like particles for treatment of viral infections based on the virus causing the infection. The virus-like particles comprise the virus recombinant proteins that form a capsid, recombinant virus membrane proteins attached to the capsid and vRNA packaged within said capsid. The vRNA is generated from a DNA sequence encoding a polypeptide capable of specifically binding to a constant region of a nonstructural protein of the virus that is essential for propagation of the virus.
US08153111B2	Photo-triggered release of active substances from dendrimer-photosensitizer complexes Compositions of dendrimer-photosensitizer complexes including therapeutic molecules, and methods for their synthesis and use are disclosed. The therapeutic molecules and the photosensitizers are each covalently attached to the dendrimer at its end-groups, essentially randomly. Upon exposure to radiation of a suitable wavelength, the photosensitizers are activated to break up the dendrimer structure and thus release the therapeutic molecules. In a preferred embodiment, the end-groups of the dendrimer are replaced with or covalently connected to therapeutic molecules and photosensitizers. In a further preferred embodiment, targeting molecules may also be attached to the dendrimer to create a more accurate treatment. The present invention is especially useful for medical applications, where therapeutic molecules can be delivered to body areas for treatment of a variety of diseases without risk of premature release in the body, due to the strength and stability of the bonds between the end-groups and the photosensitizers and therapeutic molecules.
US08153110B2	Environment-responding siRNA carrier using disulfide-cross-linked polymeric micelle Disclosed is a siRNA-encapsulating polymeric micelle complex (a polyion complex) having high monodispersibility and structural stability and excellent in the ability of transporting siRNA into a cell. Further disclosed are a nucleic acid delivery device, a nucleic acid delivery kit, a pharmaceutical composition, and a gene therapy agent, each of which uses the complex. The polyion complex is characterized by comprising: a block copolymer composed of a polyethylene glycol moiety and a polycation moiety having a thiol group as a side chain at the terminus; and siRNA.
US08153109B2	Alkylene carbonate dilution, alkylene carbonate for preparing the dilution, and aqueous reducing chemical agent An object of the invention is to provide an aqueous solution of a No. 1 permanent waving agent through reconstitution upon use in a simple manner, which solution contains a cyclic mercapto compound as a reducing agent and realizes excellent characteristics such as high waving effect and good appearance of waved hair. The invention provides an alkylene carbonate dilution containing a cyclic mercapto compound in an amount of 7 to 80 wt. %; an alkylene carbonate for use in preparation of the alkylene carbonate dilution; and an aqueous reducing chemical agent which is prepared from the alkylene carbonate dilution and an aqueous base material.
US08153106B1	Silicone based sun screening compositions with improved UVA1/UV ratios The present invention is directed to a synergistic blend of a sunscreen agent, specifically avobenzone and a specific class of ester that results in substantially improved sunscreen effectiveness, improving the performance of the sunscreen formulation as determined by the star system.
US08153105B1	Sunblock composition with photostabilizer and method of preparation A sunblock or sunscreen composition with enhanced photostability and a method for preparing and using the novel photostabilizer are provided. The combination of avobenzene, dimethyl capramide, and polyester-8, a copolymer of adipic acid and neopentyl glycol that is terminated with cyanodiphenyl propenoic acid, provides an extra layer of protection to keep the sunscreen working longer to protect the skin from damaging ultraviolet rays, namely, UVA and UVB. Sunblock products with SPF-15 for moderate sun protection. SPF-30 for higher sun protection and SPF-50, specially formulated for fair skin provides high sun protection. The sunblock compositions with the novel photostabilizer have a clean, dry formula that glides on easily for quick absorption, while enlisting sea plant extracts and anti-oxidant vitamins A, C, and E that aid in the reduction of cell damaging free radicals for younger looking skin.
US08153104B2	Pharmaceutical formulations for dry powder inhalers comprising a low-dosage strength active ingredient The invention provides a formulation to be administered as dry powder for inhalation suitable for efficacious delivery of low-dosage strength active ingredients to the low respiratory tract of patient. In particular, the invention provides a formulation comprising microparticles constituted of microparticles of a low-dosage strength active ingredient and microparticles of an excipient wherein the MMD of the microparticles is comprised between 2 and 15 micron, at least 10% of the microparticles has a mass diameter (MD) higher than 0.5 micron, and the process of preparation thereof.
US08153102B2	Process for manufacturing pharmaceutical composition comprises of Mycobacterium w in the treatment of asthma (obstructive lung disease) The invention relates to process for the preparation of formulations comprising a microorganism Mycobacterium w for the management of bronchial Asthma (obstructive lung disease).
US08153101B2	Methods and compositions for F-18 labeling of proteins, peptides and other molecules The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use of F-18 labeled molecules of use, for example, in PET imaging techniques. In particular embodiments, the labeled molecules may be peptides or proteins, although other types of molecules including but not limited to aptamers, oligonucleotides and nucleic acids may be labeled and utilized for such imaging studies. In preferred embodiments, the F-18 label may be conjugated to a targeting molecule by formation of a metal complex and binding of the F-18-metal complex to a chelating moiety, such as DOTA, NOTA, DTPA, TETA or NETA. In other embodiments, the metal may first be conjugated to the chelating group and subsequently the F-18 bound to the metal. In other preferred embodiments, the F-18 labeled moiety may comprise a targetable conjugate that may be used in combination with a bispecific or multispecific antibody to target the F-18 to an antigen expressed on a cell or tissue associated with a disease, medical condition, or pathogen. Exemplary results show that F-18 labeled targetable conjugate peptides are stable in human serum at 37° C. for several hours, sufficient time to perform PET imaging analysis.
US08153098B2	Surface-modified indium-tin oxides Surface-modified indium-tin oxides are produced by mixing the oxides with the surface-modifying agent in liquid or vapor form and heat treating the mixture. They can be used to produce coating systems.
US08153097B2	Method for manufacturing ferrite powder, ferrite powder, and magnetic recording medium A method for manufacturing ferrite powder comprises a step (a) of causing a precursor, obtained by a liquid-phase reaction method, to pass through a sieve with openings of 2 mm or less, and a step (b) of causing free fall, through the interior of a furnace tube heated to the range 750 to 1250° C. by a heater, of the precursor which has passed through the sieve. In the process of causing free fall through the interior of the furnace tube heated by the heater, ferrite powder, which is a single phase of hexagonal ferrite, is obtained by heating the precursor to a prescribed temperature and holding the precursor at the prescribed temperature.
US08153088B2	Method to prevent build-up of limestone in a lime slaker that is used for batchwise slaking of burnt lime A method to prevent build-up of limestone in a slaker that is used for batchwise slaking of burnt lime is described, in which lime slurry is produced with a greater degree of fineness and prolonged sedimentation time, where for immediate cleansing of the slaker before next slaking, after said calibration of the load cell aggregate, a number of valves are opened for given time periods for addition of flushing water to respective nozzles, in that flushing water is supplied sequentially via each valve to associated nozzle(s), until a predetermined amount of flushing water is reached in the slaker.
US08153079B2	Microfluidic apparatus with integrated porous-substrate/sensor for real-time (bio)chemical molecule detection Microfluidic apparatus including integrated porous substrate/sensors that may be used for detecting targeted biological and chemical molecules and compounds. In one aspect, upper and lower microfluidic channels are defined in respective halves of a substrate, which are sandwiched around a porous membrane upon assembly. In other aspect, the upper and lower channels are formed such that a portion of the lower channel passes beneath a portion of the upper channel to form a cross-channel area, wherein the membrane is disposed between the two channels. In various embodiments, one or more porous membranes are disposed proximate to corresponding cross-channel areas defined by one or more upper and lower channels. The porous membrane may also have sensing characteristics, such that it produces a change in an optical and/or electronic characteristic. Accordingly, the apparatus may further include instrumentation or detection equipment to measure the changes, such as optic-based detectors and electronic instrumentation.
US08153077B2	System and process for production of nitrobenzene A method for producing nitrobenzene is disclosed which comprises forming a dispersion comprising benzene-containing droplets or particles dispersed in a mixture of concentrated nitric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid, wherein said particles have a mean diameter less than one micron, and subjecting the dispersion to reaction conditions comprising a pressure in the range of about 203 kPa (2 atm) to about 6080 kPa (60 atm) and a temperature in the range of about 20° C. to about 230° C., whereby at least a portion of said benzene is nitrated to form nitrobenzene. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.
US08153075B2	Gas hydrate production apparatus The invention provides a gas hydrate production apparatus which can eliminate the need for an agitator in a generator, and at the same time, can make constant the percentage of gas hydration of the product. A shell-and-tube-type generator 2 is provided downstream of an ejector-type mixer 1 that stirs and mixes a raw-material gas g and a raw-material water w. In addition, partition walls 41 to 43 each causing a gas hydrate slurry to turn around are provided in each of end plates 37 and 38 placed respectively in the front and rear ends of the generator 2. Moreover, a dehydrator 3 including a cone-shaped filter 48 is provided downstream of the generator 2, and a drainage pipe 11 is provided to the dehydrator 3. Further, a flow regulating valve 12 is provided to the drainage pipe 11.
US08153071B2	Fluid porting assembly and microreactor incorporating the same A fluid porting assembly for a microreactor comprising a process fluid passageway, a pliable seal, and a cooling fluid passageway is provided. The pliable seal is positioned in the vicinity of the process fluid outlet and is configured to define a sealing interface between the process fluid outlet and a fluid port of a microreactor. The cooling fluid passageway terminates at a cooling fluid interface and defines a dispensing gap between the cooling fluid interface and the sealing interface. The cooling fluid outlet is configured to distribute cooling fluid about a periphery of the pliable seal and to direct cooling fluid away from the periphery of the pliable seal through the dispensing gap when the pliable seal of the fluid porting assembly engages a fluid port of a microreactor. The cooling fluid removes heat from areas of the microreactor in the vicinity of the fluid port and pliable seal.
US08153067B2	Circuit with at least one catalytic measuring element A circuit with at least one catalytic measuring element (1), in which the at least one catalytic measuring element (1) is connected to a supply voltage (5) without a protective resistor and without a thermal safety device arranged upstream. The circuit makes it possible to develop gas-measuring devices with catalytic measuring elements that are characterized by an especially low power consumption.
US08153066B2	Device for supporting chromophore elements A device for supporting chromophore elements suitable for emitting fluorescence in response to light excitation, the device comprising a substrate having a surface layer carrying the chromophore elements, forming a planar waveguide, and containing photoluminescent constituents which emit guided luminescence at the excitation wavelength(s) of the chromophore elements when they are excited by primary excitation light illuminating the surface layer. The invention is particularly applicable to biochip type devices.
US08153063B2	Small volume in vitro analyte sensor and methods of making A sensor utilizing a non-leachable or diffusible redox mediator is described. The sensor includes a sample chamber to hold a sample in electrolytic contact with a working electrode, and in at least some instances, the sensor also contains a non-leachable or a diffusible second electron transfer agent. The sensor and/or the methods used produce a sensor signal in response to the analyte that can be distinguished from a background signal caused by the mediator. The invention can be used to determine the concentration of a biomolecule, such as glucose or lactate, in a biological fluid, such as blood or serum, using techniques such as coulometry, amperometry, and potentiometry. An enzyme capable of catalyzing the electrooxidation or electroreduction of the biomolecule is typically provided as a second electron transfer agent.
US08153060B2	Automatic analyzer An automatic analyzer includes a B/F separator including a reaction vessel holding unit provided with magnets disposed around a reaction vessel held on the reaction vessel holding unit and a rotating device for rotating the reaction vessel holding unit holding the reaction vessel about an axis of rotation aligned with the center axis of the reaction vessel or an axis of rotation parallel to and separated by a distance from the center axis of the reaction vessel. Both magnetic force and centrifugal force are exerted simultaneously on a specimen contained in a reaction vessel to capture magnetic particles contained in the liquid contained in the reaction vessel at a high capturing efficiency.
US08153047B2	Method for manufacturing of magnet poles A method for manufacturing sintered magnet poles is described. A vitrifiable base material powder is filled into a mold, the mold is closed with a plate, the mold with the powder is placed in a magnetic field for aligning the powder, the plate is pressed such onto the powder as to establish a compact that holds the alignment in place, and the compact is sintered so as to form a sintered magnet pole. The mold ultimately forms a protective cover of the sintered magnet pole and the plate ultimately forms a base plate of a magnet pole piece. Furthermore, a magnet pole piece is provided which has a magnet pole and a base plate which is fixed to a protective cover so that the base plate and the protective cover surround the magnet pole. The base plate and/or the protective cover of the magnet pole piece has at least one element that provides a geometrical locking of the magnet pole to the base plate and/or the protective cover.
US08153046B2	Wall forming system A wall forming system utilizing flowable construction materials, such as concrete, to construct walls. The wall forming system comprises a wall forming assembly and a method of using the wall forming assembly to form a wall having an exterior surface. The wall forming assembly comprises an exterior first panel having a plurality of openings therethrough and a second panel. The first and second panels are spaced apart so that a cavity is formed therebetween for receiving the flowable construction material. The flowable construction material will flow through the openings in the exterior panel and extend beyond an external surface of the exterior panel. The flowable construction material that extends beyond the external surface can be shaped to form various surface designs. The exterior panel and the flowable construction material become a substantially monolithic structure when the flowable construction material is set.
US08153044B2	Heat treatment of thermoplastic film, and thermoplastic film and method for producing the same A thermoplastic film is transversely stretched, and then transported in a heat-treating zone (46) such that the ratio (G/D) of an inter-roll distance (G) to a roll lap length (D) is 0.01 to 3, and the ratio (V2/V1) of an exit-side transporting speed (V2) to an entry-side transporting speed (V1) is 0.6 to 0.999. The thermoplastic film is heat-treated in the heat-treating zone (46) at (Tg−20)° C. to (Tg+50)° C., in which Tg is the glass transition temperature of the film. The heat-treated thermoplastic film exhibits an Rth/Re ratio of at least 0.5 and less than 1, an Rth/Re ratio range of 0.01 to 0.1 in the width direction, and a thermal dimensional change of 0.001% to 0.3% under conditions of 80° C. and 200 hours.
US08153042B2	Two component curable compositions A two component reactive composition is described, each component, before they are mixed together, contains a filler having thin platelet structure, e.g. a nanoclay, and a further filler that interacts with the platelets. The individual components can have a filler loading that makes them flowable and therefore the components can readily be mixed together for ready dispensing. When the components are mixed thoroughly together, the resulting resin may have a viscosity higher than that of the individual components. The loading of the filler is preferably chosen so that the resulting blended resin is capable of being applied on to a vertical surface without experiencing significant slump. The viscosity of the mixed material can be up to 5 to 10 times or more than that of the individual components before mixing. The composition can be used in adhesives, modelling pastes, coatings, sealants, putties, mastics, stopping compounds, caulking materials, encapsulants and surface coatings.
US08153038B2	Type of wood section material and its manufacturing method The present invention relates to a type of wood section material manufacturing method, especially with respect to soft wood section material and its manufacturing method. It belongs to wood processing field. This invention is achieved by the following technical plans: a type of wood section material manufacturing method includes the following steps: (1) wood preparation; (2) drying; (3) Polishing; (4) Hot pressing, which is to use two hot pressing boards with 140-200° C. to firmly press two surfaces of panel blank material; (5) Pre-carbonization, which pre-carbonize the panel blank material under 160° C. and 200° C.; (6) Carbonization, which carbonize the panel blank material between 200° C. and 225° C.; (7) Cooling; and (8) Moisture content control. This invention is particularly suitable to make wooden floor boards and office furniture.
US08153035B2	Programmable wetting controller An apparatus for wetting and coating ophthalmic lenses having a tank with a cleaning or coating solution and a handling system for sequentially moving a lens and the solution in relation to each other, to wet the lens. A master control module is coupled to the handling system and configured execution a wetting profile. The wetting profile moves the lens to obtain a generally consistent lens surface wetting speed so that the lens coating has a more uniform thickness. According to a method, lenses are wetted in a liquid bath. The lens is placed in a handling system which moves the lens with respect to the bath according to a wetting profile. The wetting profile is based on the incremental vertical lens surface slope with respect to the surface of the solution.
US08153034B2	Flexible protective coating A composition made up of an inorganic fire-retardant having at least a bimodal distribution of particle sizes.
US08153033B2	Amorphous transparent conductive film, target and production method for amorphous conductive film An amorphous transparent conductive film containing as a main component a six oxygen-coordinated metal oxide, and satisfying, in a radial distribution function (RDF) obtained by an X-ray scattering measurement, a relationship of A/B>1, providing that the maximum value of RDF at an interatomic distance of from 0.30 nm to 0.36 nm is A and the maximum value of RDF at an interatomic distance of from 0.36 nm to 0.42 nm is B.
US08153032B2	Transition metal hydroxide and oxide, method of producing the same, and cathode material containting the same Transition metal hydroxide and oxide, method of producing the same, and cathode material containing the same are disclosed. One method includes coupling an alkaline solution to a transition metal salt solution under an inert gas atmosphere, whereby the alkaline solution includes an additive. A transition metal oxide may be prepared by heating the transition metal hydroxide under an oxygen gas atmosphere. Cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries may be prepared incorporating the transition metal hydroxide and oxide embodiments disclosed herein.
US08153028B2	Anticorrosion additives for manufacturing processes, a process for preparation thereof and use thereof The present invention relates to novel anticorrosion additives for manufacturing processes, comprising at least one triazole and the reaction product of at least one alkylene glycol and at least one carboxylic anhydride, to a process for preparation thereof and to the use thereof for corrosion protection for aluminum and/or aluminum alloys.
US08153026B2	Organic/inorganic composite The present invention provides an organic/inorganic composite containing a rare earth metal or/and Period IV transition metal in which the aforementioned rare earth metal or/and Period IV transition metal is doped at a high concentration, and control of quenching and optical transparency are assured thereby; and an optical amplifier, a light control optical element, and luminescent device utilizing the same. The organic/inorganic composite containing a rare earth metal or/and Period IV transition metal is one in which at least one species of rare earth metal or/and Period IV transition metal is dispersed in an organic polymer, with the aforementioned composite containing an optically transparent organic polymer and an inorganic dispersion phase comprising: (1) a rare earth metal and (2) another element coordinated thereto via an oxygen atom(s).
US08153023B2	Phosphor, method for production thereof, and light-emitting apparatus A phosphor represented by M1(x1)M2(x2)M312(O,N)16, wherein M1 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Y, La, Gd and Lu, M2 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Ce, Pr, Eu, Tb, Yb and Er, M3 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Si, Ge, Sn, B, Al, Ga and In, and x1 and x2 satisfy 0
US08153022B2	Semiconductor phosphor nanoparticle A semiconductor phosphor nanoparticle including nanoparticle core made of a group 13-group 15 semiconductor; a shell layer coating the semiconductor nanoparticle core; and a metal-containing modified organic compound and a modified organic compound binding to a surface of the shell layer is disclosed.
US08153015B2	Ultra-passivation of chromium-containing alloy and methods of producing same The invention concerns article having a surface oxide layer up to 20 nm thick, the surface oxide layer comprising chromium and cobalt oxides where the atomic ratio of Cr/Co is more than 3. The invention also concerns methods for treating a chromium containing material, said method comprising contacting said material with a gas plasma under conditions effective to oxidize at least a portion of the material; and contacting said material with an acid. The treated surface is corrosion resistant and can be used in orthopedic implants, especially the wear surface of the orthopedic implant to reduce wear, and other corrosive environment.
US08153011B2	Method for separating off coloring components from aqueous plant extracts The invention relates to a method for separating off coloring components from aqueous plant extracts in which magnesium ions (Mg2+) are added to the plant extract, at least one alkaline component is added to the plant extract, a precipitate is formed, and the precipitate formed is separated off from the plant extract.
US08153010B2	Method to inhibit scale formation in cooling circuits using carbon dioxide Scaling is controlled in a cooling water system with CO2 based upon measurements of the cooling water's pH, alkalinity and Ca2+ concentration.
US08153007B2	Method of treating wastewater A method of treating a wastewater, containing the steps of: filtering a wastewater supplied into an activated sludge tank and biologically-treated therein, in a membrane module installed outside the activated sludge tank; chemical-cleaning the membrane module with a membrane-cleaning agent while the membrane module is disconnected from the activated sludge tank with a valve; and water-flushing off the substances contained in the wastewater that react with the membrane-cleaning agent and form hazardous substances and/or operation-inhibiting substances, or the membrane-cleaning agent remaining in the membrane module with water while the membrane module and the activated sludge tank are disconnected from each other by the valve, wherein the membrane-cleaning agent is prevented from contacting the substances contained in the wastewater that react with the membrane-cleaning agent and form hazardous substances and/or operation-inhibiting substances.
US08153004B2	Grease trap with detachable residue interceptor An apparatus and method to separate grease and solids from wastewater before reaching the sewers using a grease trap, wherein said grease trap comprises a detachable residue trap reducing turbulence and including a mesh which efficiently trap solid particles from the water waste in other to make easier the compliance with regulating agencies.
US08153002B2	Device for treating water, particularly a filtration device, and cartridge A device for treating water, particularly a filtration device, including a cartridge, which has a receptacle for receiving treatment agents for water, particularly for receiving filtration agents, and a connecting head disposed on the receptacle, wherein the connecting head at the outer surface thereof has at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. The device further includes a connecting element, which has a holder for the connecting head with at least one inflow opening and an outflow opening, which are connected to the inlet and outlet openings of the connecting head in a sealing manner by means of sealing elements. The connecting head is tapered toward the free end, wherein the outer surface has at least one first curved outer surface section, which is inclined toward the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, and a second outer surface section opposite from the first outer surface section. The inlet and outlet openings are located in the first and/or the second outer surface sections. The connecting head is inserted in the holder in the axial direction, wherein the inside surface of the holder has first and second inside surface sections that complement at least the first and second outside surface sections.
US08152997B1	Stormwater control system and related method A stormwater control system including conveyance, filtration and discharge systems. The conveyance system includes a set of conduits and connections providing a flow path through a compacted soil embankment from an upper inlet to a lower discharge area of an underlying soil infiltration zone. The control system has configurations for transferring stormwater from pervious and impervious surfaces to the soil infiltration zone. The control system optionally includes a media filter device that may be installed within the conveyance system to intercept sediment and other contaminants prior to discharge within the underlying soil infiltration zone.
US08152993B2	Ethylene furnace radiant coil decoking method Methods are provided for decoking the radiant coils in an ethylene cracking plant. The decoking process is controlled by monitoring the coil outlet temperature to control the rate of burning of coke in the radiant coils. Air flow rates, steam flow rates and coil outlet temperatures are controlled during the decoking process to prevent tube damage, minimize decoking time and maximize coke removal.
US08152992B2	Cell-based sensing: biological transduction of chemical stimuli to electrical signals (nose-on-a-chip) Methods and compositions for the reliable detection of chemical stimuli using a “nose-on-a-chip” are presented. The invention uses cells sensitive to chemical stimuli and detects and processes the signals given by the cells upon contact with chemical stimuli.
US08152989B2	System and process for treating ballast water A system and process for treating ballast water within an ocean going vessel by generating hypochlorite for treating the ballast water. The system comprises one or more hypochlorite electrolytic cells in fluid communication with ballast water. The total organic carbon content of the ballast water is ascertained and the amount of hypochlorite generated is modulated in response to the total organic carbon content of the ballast water. In one embodiment the system comprises a total organic carbon analyzer for measuring total organic carbon content.In one embodiment of the process of the invention, hypochlorite production is modulated so that the residual halogen-containing oxidizing agent is maintained in the ballast water. In another embodiment of the process, hypochlorite production is modulated to maintain a weight ratio of hypochlorite to total organic carbon in the ballast water ranging from about 1.0 to about 3.0.
US08152988B2	Electrochemical process for the preparation of nitrogen fertilizers The present invention provides methods and apparatus for the preparation of nitrogen fertilizers including ammonium nitrate, urea, urea-ammonium nitrate, and/or ammonia, at low temperature and pressure, preferably at ambient temperature and pressure, utilizing a source of carbon, a source of nitrogen, and/or a source of hydrogen or hydrogen equivalent. Implementing an electrolyte serving as ionic charge carrier, (1) ammonium nitrate is produced via the reduction of a nitrogen source at the cathode and the oxidation of a nitrogen source at the anode; (2) urea or its isomers are produced via the simultaneous cathodic reduction of a carbon source and a nitrogen source; (3) ammonia is produced via the reduction of nitrogen source at the cathode and the oxidation of a hydrogen source or a hydrogen equivalent such as carbon monoxide or a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen at the anode; and (4) urea-ammonium nitrate is produced via the simultaneous cathodic reduction of a carbon source and a nitrogen source, and anodic oxidation of a nitrogen source. The electrolyte can be aqueous, non-aqueous, or solid.
US08152984B2	Method of manufacturing nozzle plate A method of manufacturing a nozzle plate has steps of: (e) covering a surface of a plate with a light-curable resin; (f) covering the resin with a light-shielding member having an annular light-shielding region which encloses an opening of a nozzle hole therein in a plan view; (g) curing a portion of the resin not overlapping the light-shielding region by applying light after the step of (f); (h) exposing the resin by removing the light-shielding member after the step of (g); (i) eliminating an uncured portion of the resin after the step of (h); (j) forming a water-repellent coat on surfaces of the plate using the cured resins as masks, after the steps of (d) and (i); and (k) eliminating the cured resins after the step of (j).
US08152982B2	Coating line and process for forming a multilayer component coating on a substrate A process for forming a multilayer composite coating on a substrate is provided. The process includes forming an electrodeposition coating layer on the substrate by electrodeposition of a curable electrodepositable coating composition over at least a portion of the substrate. Optionally, the coated substrate is heated to a temperature and for a time sufficient to cure the electrodeposition coating layer. A basecoating layer is formed on the electrodeposition coating layer by depositing an aqueous curable basecoating composition directly onto at least a portion of the electrodeposition coating layer. Optionally, the basecoating layer is dehydrated. A top coating layer is formed on the basecoating layer by depositing a curable top coating composition which is substantially pigment-free directly onto at least a portion of the basecoating layer. The top coating layer, the basecoating layer, and, optionally, the electrodeposition coating layer are cured simultaneously.
US08152981B2	Methods and compositions for electrophoretic metallization deposition Embodiments of the invention generally provide methods and compositions that are used during electrophoretic deposition (EPD) processes. In one embodiment, a method for forming a metallization material during an EPD process is provided which includes positioning a substrate containing apertures disposed thereon, exposing the substrate to a flux agent to form a flux coating within the apertures, exposing the flux coating to an EPD mixture to form a particulate layer therein, and exposing the substrate to a reflow process to form a metallization layer within the apertures. Optionally, the particulate layer may be exposed to the flux agent prior to the reflow process. The EPD mixture generally contains a dielectric hydrocarbon fluid, metallic particles, and a liquid crystal material (LCM), such as a cholesteryl compound. In some embodiments, an abietic acid compound may be used as the flux agent, or alternatively, as the LCM.
US08152978B2	Apparatus and method for measuring hydrogen concentration in molten metals The present invention concerns a probe for measuring hydrogen concentration in molten metals comprising a probe body and a hydrogen sensor. The sensor structure is based on a sensor body having a wall within which a sealed cavity is defined. The cavity contains a solid reference material for generating a reference partial pressure of hydrogen within the cavity. At least a portion of the wall of the cavity is formed from a solid electrolyte material carrying a measurement electrode on a surface of the solid electrolyte outside the cavity and a reference electrode on a surface of the solid electrolyte within the cavity, exposed to the reference partial pressure of hydrogen. An electrical conductor extends from the reference electrode through the wall of the cavity to an external surface of the sensor body. The probe body comprises a chamber for receiving the sensor and a reference-signal connection for connecting to the electrical conductor when the sensor is received in the chamber.
US08152972B2	Method for forming fine particles, method for forming concavities and convexities, and device for forming fine particles A method of the present invention for forming fine particles includes forming fine particles on a substrate by supplying, in the presence of inert gas, to the substrate, atoms or molecules of a supply material capable of being combined with a material constituting a surface of the substrate to produce a compound, the atoms or the molecules being supplied from a supply source. The supply source is positioned in such a manner as not to be directly connected by a line with the surface of the substrate where the fine particles are to be formed, and a high-frequency voltage varying positively and negatively, ranging from 100 kHz to 100 MHz, is applied to at least one of the substrate and a substrate supporter for supporting the substrate. This realizes a method for forming fine particles that allows forming highly uniformed magnetic fine particles with a periodic pattern through a simple process at a time.
US08152969B2	Hydrofoil for a papermaking installation A hydrofoil for a paper production installation has a side that faces the wire formed with a wear strip. The wear strip is formed with plates that are organized in layer and formed of ceramic material. The wear strip is formed by a plurality of layers which lie on one another, each of thin plates which are situated next to one another. The layers of ceramic material are connected to one another by adhesive layers.
US08152968B2	Machine for the production of a fibrous web A machine for the production of a fibrous web including a fibrous stock suspension unit for the production of an aqueous suspension, a web former for dewatering the aqueous suspension and forming the fibrous web including at least one inclined wire progressing, at least in sections, at an angle to horizontal and at least one single layer headbox, one binder wire section progressing substantially horizontally and including at least one binder headbox, one drying unit including a drying wire, one winder, and at least one blowing device positioned between the binder wire section and the drying unit for contactless floating guidance of the fibrous web by one of air and another free flowing medium, wherein the blowing device includes a plurality of blowing zones transverse to a direction of travel of the fibrous web, the blowing zones configured to be controlled/adjusted independently of each other.
US08152965B2	Method and device for emptying the floor of a soda recovery boiler The invention is related to a method for emptying a furnace floor in a soda recovery boiler when the soda recovery boiler is being shut down. The emptying may be started while smelt is still flowing in smelt spouts. The floor is emptied by sucking smelt from the furnace with a smelt eductor. The invention is also related to a device for removing smelt and wash water from a furnace of a soda recovery boiler by means of suction. Negative pressure is generated in the device by conducting pressurized gas into a suction pipe of the eductor so that the pressurized gas is discharged in the discharge direction of smelt and wash water.
US08152964B2	Press fabric for a machine for the production of web material The invention relates to a press fabric, especially a press felt, for a machine for the production of a fibrous web, especially paper or cardboard, which is fluid permeable and which includes an elastomer polymeric material. The invention is characterized in that the total weight component of the elastomer polymeric material contained in the press fabric is more than 50%, preferably more than 60% of the total weight of the press fabric.
US08152963B2	Method for manufacturing a regenerated particle aggregate The present invention aims at providing: a recycling usable regenerated particle aggregate; a method for allowing stable manufacture of the regenerated particle aggregate; a paper containing the regenerated particle aggregate, the paper exhibiting excellent property in case of newsprint papers, printing papers, book printing papers, and electrophotographic printing papers that use the regenerated particle aggregate, and especially a neutralized paper containing the regenerated particle aggregate; and a coated paper for printing having especially excellent printability, using the regenerated particle aggregate. Problems will be solved by: a regenerated particle aggregate obtained through dehydration, drying, calcination, and pulverization using a deinked froth discharged at a used paper deinking treatment process as a main raw material; a method for manufacturing the regenerated particle aggregate; a paper containing the regenerated particle aggregate as an internal filler; a coated paper for printing having a coating of the regenerated particle aggregate as a pigment for coating.
US08152960B2	Lignocellulosic fibrous material made of wood The invention relates to a wood-based lignocellulosic fibrous material having a tearing length of more than 8 km at 15° SR and a lignin content of at least 15%, based on the unbleached oven-dry fibrous material, for coniferous wood and having a tearing length of more than 5.0 km at 20° SR and a lignin content of at least 12%, based on the unbleached oven-dry fibrous material, for deciduous wood.
US08152959B2	Embossed multi-ply fibrous structure product A multi-ply fibrous structure product having two or more plies of fibrous structure where at least one of the plies has a plurality of domes formed during the papermaking process and there are from about 10 to about 1000 domes per square inch of the product. At least one of the plies of the multi-ply fibrous structure has a plurality of embossments thereon with a total embossment area of from about 3% to about 15%. The embossments may be arranged such that they define non-geometric foreground patterns of unembossed cells.
US08152958B2	Fabric crepe/draw process for producing absorbent sheet A method of making a fabric-creped absorbent cellulosic sheet includes compactively dewatering a papermaking furnish to form a nascent web having an apparently random distribution of papermaking fiber, applying the dewatered web having the apparently random fiber distribution to a translating transfer surface moving at a first speed and fabric-creping the web from the transfer surface at a consistency of from about 30 to about 60 percent utilizing a patterned creping fabric. The creping step occurs under pressure in a fabric creping nip defined between the transfer surface and the creping fabric. The creping fabric travels at a second speed slower than the speed of the transfer surface. The fabric pattern, nip parameters, velocity delta and web consistency are selected such that the web is creped from the transfer surface and redistributed on the creping fabric to form a web with a drawable reticulum.
US08152957B2	Fabric creped absorbent sheet with variable local basis weight An absorbent cellulosic sheet having a variable local basis weight includes a papermaking-fiber reticulum provided with (a) a plurality of elongated densified regions of compressed papermaking fibers, the densified regions being oriented generally along the machine direction (MD) of the sheet and having a relatively low local basis weight, as well as leading and trailing edges at their longitudinal extremities, and (b) a plurality of fiber-enriched, pileated regions connected with the plurality of elongated densified regions, the pileated regions having (i) a relatively high local basis weight and (ii) a plurality of cross-machine direction (CD) extending crests having concamerated CD profiles such that the extending crests of the pileated regions are arcuate and extend around the leading and trailing edges of the plurality of elongated densified regions.
US08152955B2	Method for reusing recording medium, reusable recording medium, method for producing reusable recording medium and image forming apparatus A method for reusing a recording medium forms an image on the recording medium by use of an image forming material, and removes the image forming material from the recording medium through thermal transfer by use of a peeling member. The recording medium is paper produced by applying a treatment liquid at a size pressing after paper making and then drying the treatment liquid. The treatment liquid includes a water-soluble or water-dispersible polymer having an alkyl group with carbon atoms at its side chain as an image-repellant substance. The image forming material includes a thermoplastic resin, and the adhesive strength between the peeling member and the image forming material is higher than the adhesive strength between the recording medium and the image forming material.
US08152954B2	Showerhead electrode assemblies and plasma processing chambers incorporating the same The present invention relates generally to plasma processing and, more particularly, to plasma processing chambers and electrode assemblies used therein. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an electrode assembly is provided comprising a thermal control plate, a silicon-based showerhead electrode, and securing hardware, wherein the silicon-based showerhead electrode comprises a plurality of partial recesses formed in the backside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode and backside inserts positioned in the partial recesses. The thermal control plate comprises securing hardware passages configured to permit securing hardware to access the backside inserts. The securing hardware and the backside inserts are configured to maintain engagement of the thermal control plate and the silicon-based showerhead electrode and to permit disengagement of the thermal control plate and the silicon-based showerhead electrode while isolating the silicon-based electrode material of the silicon-based showerhead electrode from frictional contact with the securing hardware during disengagement.
US08152948B2	Contoured composite parts One embodiment of a composite part comprises a curved elongated section comprising a plurality of stacked reinforcement layers. The stacked reinforcement layers in the curved elongated section comprise at least one of non-continuous woven fabric and non-continuous reinforcement.
US08152946B2	Rewelded cartridge and method of manufacture A reassembled laser toner cartridge and method of manufacture in which the hopper section and roller section of a previously depleted toner cartridge are rewelded together by ultrasonic welding along the length sections after an ancillary energy director strip has been positioned between the sections where the roller section interfaces with the hopper section to provide a laser toner cartridge that has the same or nearly the same specifications as the original equipment manufactured cartridges.
US08152945B2	Method for producing display device A method for producing a display device includes: (A) coating a resin composition, which is a raw material of the cured resin, on at least one of the display part or the protective part, (B) closely attaching the display part and the protective part via the resin composition, and (C) arranging the cured resin layer between the display part and the protective part by curing the resin composition by irradiating UV rays from external side of the protective part. After (B), if there is any defect in the resin composition layer, the method further includes (b1) separating the display part and the protective part, and (b2) peeling and removing the resin composition adhered to the separated display part and the separated protective part by a removing solution which contains an organic solvent.
US08152943B2	Method for manufacturing a wrought metal plate product having a gradient in engineering properties Manufacturing heat-treatable wrought metal plate having length, width and thickness directions and an engineering properties gradient along at least one plate dimension. Rolled, extruded or forged wrought metal plate is solution heat treated and rapidly cooled. The cooled plate is aged by heat treatment for time to arrive at different tempers across at least one plate dimension (length or width). Controlled heat-input into the plate along its length direction raises plate temperature above ambient temperature to temperature T1, and a temperature gradient is applied between temperature T2 and T3, wherein T2>T3, across at least one direction of the plate by controlled heat-input into the plate from one side (width or thickness) of the plate to temperature T2 and controlled cooling to temperature T3 from the plate at the opposite side of the controlled heat-input, and ageing the plate while applying the temperature gradient between T2 and T3.
US08152940B2	Aluminum alloy forging member and process for producing the same The present invention provides an aluminum alloy forging material having enhanced strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance, and a method of producing the material. An aluminum alloy forging material 1 produced with specified components under specified conditions has an arm portion 2 including a relatively narrow and thick peripheral rib 3 and a thin and relatively wide central web 4 having a thickness of 10 mm or less and having a substantially H-shaped sectional form. In a width-direction section of a maximum stress producing site of the rib 3a, the density of crystals observed in the structure of a sectional portion 7 where the maximum stress is produced, the spacing of grain boundary precipitates and the size and density of dispersed particles observed in the structure of a sectional portion 8 including a parting line, the recrystallization ratio observed in each of the sectional portions 7 and 8 of the rib, and the recrystallization ratio observed in a sectional portion 9 of the web 4a adjacent to the sectional structure of the rib 3a in the width direction are defined for enhancing the strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance of the aluminum alloy forging material.
US08152938B2	Hardened martensitic steel, method for producing a component from this steel and component obtained in this manner The invention relates to steel which is characterized by the following composition as expressed in percentages by weight: —C=0.18 0.30%, —Co=5-7%, —Cr=2-5%, —Al=1-2%, —Mo+W/2=1-4%, —V=trace 0.3%, —Nb=trace 0.1%, —B=trace—50 ppm, —Ni=10.5-15% with Ni≧7+3.5 Al, —Si=trace 0.4%, —Mn=trace 0.4%, —Ca=trace—500 ppm, —Rare earths=trace—500 ppm, —Ti=trace—500 ppm, —O=Trace—200 ppm if the steel is obtained by means of powder metallurgy or trace—50 ppm if the steel is produced in air or under a vacuum from molten metal, —N=trace—100 ppm, —S=trace—50 ppm, —Cu=trace—1%, and —P=trace—200 ppm, the remainder including iron and the inevitable impurities resulting from production. The invention also relates to a method of producing a part from said steel and to the part thus obtained.
US08152936B2	Rare earth magnet There is provided a rare earth magnet with excellent Br and HcJ values. The rare earth magnet according to a preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized by being composed mainly of R (where R is at least one element selected from among rare earth elements including Y), B, Al, Cu, Zr, Co, O, C and Fe, wherein the content of each element is R: 25-34 wt %, B: 0.85-0.98 wt %, Al: 0.03-0.3 wt %, Cu: 0.01-0.15 wt %, Zr: 0.03-0.25 wt %, Co: ≦3 wt % (but not 0 wt %), O: ≦0.2 wt %, C: 0.03-0.15 wt % and Fe: remainder.
US08152934B2	Aeroengine washing system and method An adjustable nozzle dispenser and a multi-nozzle dispenser are disclosed for washing an aerofoil of a gas turbine engine. The dispensers are characterized by their nozzle arrangements being capable of washing at least two different parts of the aerofoil. A system and a method of operating such a nozzle dispenser is included.
US08152930B2	Method and apparatus for removing residual material from sample plates Method and apparatus for removing residual material from sample wells of a multiwell plate. Wells located on a multiwell plate are placed in fluid communication with wash wells of a wash reservoir where cleaning fluid is provided to remove residual material from the sample wells of the multiwell plate.
US08152928B2	Substrate cleaning method, substrate cleaning system and program storage medium A substrate cleaning method can uniformly removing particles from substrates at a high removing efficiency. The substrate cleaning method includes the steps of immersing substrates W in a cleaning liquid in a cleaning tank 12, and generating ultrasonic waves in the cleaning liquid contained in the cleaning tank. A region in the cleaning tank toward which the cleaning liquid is supplied is varied with respect to a vertical level in the step of generating ultrasonic waves in the cleaning liquid while the cleaning liquid is being supplied into the cleaning tank.
US08152921B2	Crystal manufacturing An implementation of a Czochralski-type crystal growth has been shown and embodied. More particularly, a furnace with suitable insulation and flow arrangement is shown to improve the cost-efficiency of production of crystals. That is achieved by the shown new hot-zone structure, gas flows and the growth process which can decrease the power consumption, increase the lifetime of hot-zone parts and improve the productivity, e.g., by giving means for opening the hot-zone and easily adapting the hot-zone to a new crystal diameter.
US08152907B2	Gas purification apparatus and method A gas purification apparatus capable of removing fine particles of substantially any size without lowering the efficiency of gas supply. A loader module of a substrate processing apparatus includes a fan filter unit for producing a downward flow of atmospheric air in the internal space of a transfer chamber. The fan filter unit includes a fan for generating an atmospheric air flow, a filter of mesh structure for trapping and removing particles mixed in the atmospheric air flow, an irradiation heater disposed between the fan and the filter, and a high temperature part disposed in the atmospheric air flow and higher in temperature than the filter.
US08152904B2	Liquid degas system A medical ultrasound system. A base unit is included having system electronics, a user interface and ultrasound control electronics. An ultrasound therapy head is in electronic communication with the base unit. The therapy head includes a replaceable, sealed transducer cartridge with a coupling fluid therein. A cooling system is provided for cooling the coupling fluid. A plurality of guide indicators are positioned around the therapy head to align with crossed lines on a patient so as to properly align the therapy head prior to use. The therapy head can provide variable treatments to an area while the therapy head is in contact with a patient.
US08152903B2	Hindered cyclic polyamines and their salts for acid gas scrubbing process Hindered cyclic polyamines and their salts are absorbents useful in acid gas treatment processes.
US08152901B2	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.
US08152897B2	Gas/liquid separator for hydrogen generating apparatus A gas liquid separator system for a hydrogen generating apparatus includes a collection area for collecting liquid from the generated gases. To empty the collection area occasionally so that liquid does not build up and become entrained again in the dried gas, a vent solenoid is provided in communication with the collection area and a pump is used to create a vacuum periodically on the electrolysis cells. Such arrangement is used to open the liquid gas filter and possibly just the sump to atmosphere occasionally and vacuum generated to draw the liquid from the sump back to the electrolysis cells.
US08152892B1	Liquid fertilizing compositions Liquid fertilizer compositions and methods of making liquid fertilizer compositions are set forth herein. In one embodiment, a liquid fertilizing composition includes an aqueous ammonium chloride solution and an acrylamide copolymerized with acrylic acid. In another embodiment, a liquid fertilizing composition includes an aqueous ammonium chloride solution having a pH between 6.5 and 8.5 and an anionic polyacrylamide. The anionic polyacrylamide is present between 0.5 and 1.0 percent by weight. In yet another embodiment, a liquid fertilizing composition consists essentially of at least 16.5 percent by weight ammonium chloride, between 0.5 and 1.0 percent by weight acrylamide copolymerized with acrylic acid or salt thereof, an effective amount of corrosion inhibitor, and water.
US08152888B2	Air filter A filter cartridge is provided which comprises a media pack, a preform and a molded-in-place region of seal material. The media pack generally comprises a coiled arrangement of facing sheet secured to corrugated sheet. The preform includes a projection surrounding the media pack; the projection surrounding the media pack including a portion directed radially away from the media pack. The molded-in-place region of seal material defines: a radially outwardly directed surface defining a housing radial seal; and, has a portion with the projection of the preform that is directed radially away from the media pack embedded therein.
US08152886B2	Filter arrangement A filter arrangement for removing impurities from a fluid is disclosed, the filter arrangement (10) includes a plurality of screen portions (18, 20) through which the fluid passes. The screen portions include a first screen portion (18) and a second screen portion (20) separated by a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance can be determined on the basis of a threshold particle length. In one form the filter arrangement (10) is mounted in a housing (16) which is configured to receive two filter elements (18, 20) arranged in a nested configuration. A particle detector using the filter is described.
US08152883B2	Cyclone chamber with vortex shield A cyclone chamber for a vacuum cleaner includes a cylindrical wall defining an internal cavity. An inlet port extends tangentially from the wall such that air entering the cavity via the inlet port causes a cyclonic flow to develop within the chamber. An exit tube extends axially from the chamber and has a flared opening presented into the chamber. A vortex shield is centered axially within the chamber adjacent to the opening and extends radially from the opening toward the wall. The vortex shield forms a barrier to prevent in the most part, large but light weight particles, carpet fibers and the like from escaping into the exit tube.
US08152880B2	Air intake apparatus An air intake apparatus for a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. There is disclosed an air intake apparatus including ducting members for fluidly communicating cleaned intake air, for combustion, in the direction of the internal combustion engine. The apparatus also features an air filter element arranged on the duct members, as well as a case for housing the air filter element. The communicating duct members are engineered such that the air filter element can be pivoted from the case to an open position, such as for cleaning, while nevertheless remaining upon on the air communicating duct members.
US08152879B2	Filter bag for a vacuum cleaner and also use thereof A filter bag for a vacuum cleaner made of a composite material including at least three layers, at least two layers which include a nonwoven fabric layer and at least one nonwoven fiber layer being connected by a weld.
US08152874B2	Systems and methods for integration of gasification and reforming processes A system and method for producing multiple syngas products. In one embodiment (FIG. 5) a syngas producing system (200) includes a gasifier (210) and a hydrocarbon steam reformer (226). The gasifier (210) is configured to react a solid or liquid carbonaceous material (212) and provide a first syngas product (222). The reformer (226) is coupled to receive sensible heat from the first syngas product (222) and drive an endothermic reaction in which a second syngas product (238) is produced from a liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150). In a method of processing fuel, a solid or liquid carbonaceous material (212) is provided to a gasifier (210) in the form of a slurry, which is converted into a first syngas product (222) in an exothermic reaction. A liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150) receives sufficient sensible heat generated during the exothermic reaction to convert the liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150) into a second syngas product (238).
US08152867B2	Process, plant and biofuel for integrated biofuel production This invention relates to a process, a plant, and a biofuel for integrated biofuel production, such as with butanol, biodiesel, and/or sugar product. The integrated process includes the step of removing hexose from a feedstock to form a lignocellulosic material. The process also includes the step of converting the hexose to butanol and/or a biodiesel material, and the step of depolymerizing lignocellulosic material to form pentose and a residue. The process also includes the step of converting the pentose to butanol and/or a biodiesel material.
US08152866B2	Synthetic diesel fuel compositions In various aspects, a synthetic diesel fuel composition is provided that comprises at least three C10-C18 hydrocarbon compounds selected from the group consisting of decane, butylcyclohexane, hexylbenzene, hexylcyclohexane, octylbenzene, octylcyclohexane, decylbenzene, decylcyclohexane, dodecylbenzene, and dodecylcyclohexane. The synthetic diesel fuel composition also comprises at least one aromatic hydrocarbon compound at greater than or equal to about 10 vol. % of the total composition. Such synthetic diesel fuel compositions have a cetane number of greater than 40, a freeze point of less than or equal to about −20° C. (about −4° F.), and a density of greater than or equal to about 0.81 g/ml (about 6.8 lb/gal) and may be synthesized from biomass or other alternative fuel sources.
US08152865B2	Electrical storage device and manufacturing method of the same An electrical storage device having a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a lithium electrode, and an electrolyte capable of transferring lithium ion, the lithium electrode is out of direct contact with the negative electrode, and lithium ion is supplied to the negative electrode by flowing a current between the lithium and negative electrode through an external circuit. A method of using the electrical storage device includes using the lithium electrode as a reference electrode, the positive electrode potential and negative electrode potential is measured, and the potential of the positive or negative electrode is controlled during charging or discharging. The potentials of the positive electrode and negative electrode are monitored to easily determine whether deterioration of the electrical storage device is caused by the positive or negative electrode. It is possible to control the device with the potential difference between the negative electrode and reference electrode, using the negative potential.
US08152864B2	Method for production of high purity copper sulfate High purity copper sulfate having a purity of 99.99% or higher and in which the content of transition metals such as Fe, Cr, Ni is 3 wtppm or less is provided. A method for producing such high purity copper sulfate includes the steps of dissolving copper sulfate crystals in purified water, performing evaporative concentration thereto, removing the crystals precipitated initially, performing further evaporative concentration to effect crystallization, and subjecting this to filtration to obtain high purity copper sulfate. This manufacturing method of high purity copper sulfate allows the efficient removal of impurities from commercially available copper sulfate crystals at a low cost through dissolution with purified water and thermal concentration.
US08152862B2	Supercritical noble gases and coloring methods A coloring system can include a noble gas, colorant, and one or more vessels configured to convert the noble gas into a supercritical fluid, and/or receive and color an article of manufacture with the noble gas in the supercritical fluid state. A coloring process can include converting a noble gas into a supercritical fluid state; dissolving, suspending, or absorbing a colorant into the supercritical noble gas, and coloring an article of manufacture with the noble gas in the supercritical fluid state. A coloring composition can include a noble gas in a supercritical fluid state, and a colorant located in the supercritical noble gas.
US08152860B2	Cosmetic composition for coloring hair comprising a direct hair dye and a carrier system comprising polysaccharides The present invention concerns cosmetic compositions for coloring hair comprising at least one direct hair dye and a carrier system for the at least one direct hair dye, and the use of such compositions in cosmetic formulations for coloring hair. To provide a possible way with which the permanence of the bond of direct hair dyes to the hair can be improved, with the aim of direct dyes remaining on the hair for as long as possible to deliver the desired hair color in the desired quality for as long as possible, according to the invention there are proposed compositions of the aforementioned kind in which the carrier system is vesicular and comprises vesicles which are made up from hydrophobised polysaccharides and have a particle size of between 10 and 1000 nm as well as a positive surface charge with a zeta potential in the range of between 1 and 150 mV.
US08152855B2	Method and apparatus for hip femoral resurfacing tooling Tools and methods for implanting hip resurfacing femoral prostheses along a path defined by the axis of a shaped femoral head surface are described. The prostheses are stemless partial ball components having an outer surface shaped to conform to an acetabular socket and may be a two part design having a mating sleeve component with an internal bore adapted to receive the shaped femoral head. The tools and methods are capable of accurately implanting both one and two piece ball components and sleeves without requiring the prosthesis to have a central stem or the preparation of a stem cavity in the femoral head and neck.
US08152850B2	Intervertebral disc prosthesis An intervertebral-disc prosthesis for insertion into an intervertebral disc compartment has a first and a second constituent element (10,10′) each being provided on one side with a joint member (28,28′) and on the other side with an abutment face which abuts against adjacent vertebrae. The abutment faces have a convexly curved region that has at least substantially the shape of a ramp. Preferably the region is surrounded by an annular flat region having a larger roughness than the curved region. The curved region may have a vertex which contacts a vertex of a dome formed in the adjacent vertebra. This facilitates rotation of the constituent element within the intervertebral disc compartment.
US08152846B2	Instrumentation and method for repair of meniscus tissue The invention is directed toward a method and instrumentation to replace a damaged human knee joint meniscus with an allograft meniscus. The implant has its bone base cut to a desired width in a workstation. The finished base is measured in the sizing groove of the sizing block for width and length. The tibia is then drilled with drill to the appropriate depth and length and groove is formed in the tibia with a tissue chisel so that the width is the same as the width of the bone base. The bone base is press fit into the tibia groove and may be secured with a bone screw.
US08152844B2	Quick-release annuloplasty ring holder A holder for an annuloplasty ring having a template defining a proximal face opposite the distal face, and a peripheral edge about which the annuloplasty ring conforms. The annuloplasty ring anchors to the template using one or more flexible filaments. The template includes a single cutting well on its proximal face over which the flexible filament is suspended. Desirably, the single cutting well is located adjacent the peripheral edge so as to be away from any handle connections for ease of access. The flexible filament emerges above the proximal face of the template at only one location at the cutting well, thus presenting a one cut quick-release structure that is highly visible to the surgeon. The annuloplasty ring may have a relatively rigid inner core surrounded by a suture-permeable cover, and the peripheral edge may be formed by a lower axial wall and an upper radial ledge that projects outward from the rigid inner core but not quite as far as a sewing margin of the ring. The ring and holder may be for mitral annuloplasty rings and generally have a D shape in plan view, and may be three-dimensional with upward anterior and posterior bows.
US08152840B2	Bifurcation catheter assembly and methods A catheter assembly includes a main catheter branch and a side catheter branch. The main catheter branch includes a main balloon, a side balloon and a side inflation member. The side inflation member intersects the side balloon at a location on the side balloon that is offset laterally from a central line passing from a distal most point on the side balloon to a proximal most point on the side balloon. The side balloon is configured to extend radially outward relative to the main balloon when the side balloon is inflated. The side catheter branch can be centrally aligned with the side balloon central line and be positioned laterally adjacent to the side inflation lumen.
US08152834B2	Forceps and system using same A pair of forceps including first and second elongated members pivotally connected together. A handle and a head are defined at opposing ends of the first and second elongated members. In one preferred embodiment, a threaded cannula receiving chamber is disposed in the head, and the elongated members are separable via manipulation of the first and second elongated members with respect to each other.
US08152833B2	Embolic protection systems having radiopaque filter mesh A device for filtering emboli from blood flowing through a lumen defined by the walls of a vessel in a patient's body. The filter element is expandable from a collapsed configuration when the filter element is restrained to an expanded configuration when the filter element is unrestrained. The filter element includes a mesh including strands, each strand having a diameter. The mesh includes at least one radiopaque strand and at least one non-radiopaque strand, and wherein each strand has an index of wire stiffness EI, where EI is the mathematical product of the Young's modulus (E) and the second moment of area (I), and wherein the largest EI of a strand is no more than five times the smallest EI of a strand.
US08152830B2	Rotating stent delivery system for side branch access and protection and method of using same A system for treatment of a vessel bifurcation and its method of use comprises a catheter having a catheter shaft, a portion of which is characterized as an axle about which a rotatable assembly is disposed and rotatable thereabout. The system employs a series of lumens, openings and/or ports to provide a balloon mounted on the rotatable assembly with fluid communication to the catheter shaft.
US08152825B2	Medical ultrasound system and handpiece and methods for making and tuning Several embodiments of medical ultrasound handpieces are described each including a medical ultrasound transducer assembly. An embodiment of a medical ultrasound system is described, wherein the medical ultrasound system includes a medical ultrasound handpiece having a medical ultrasound transducer assembly and includes an ultrasonically-vibratable medical-treatment instrument which is attachable to a distal end of the transducer assembly. An embodiment of a medical ultrasound system is described, wherein the medical ultrasound system has a handpiece including a medical ultrasound transducer assembly and including a housing or housing component surrounding the transducer assembly. A method for tuning a medical ultrasound handpiece includes machining at least a distal non-threaded portion of an instrument-attachment stud of the transducer assembly to match a measured fundamental frequency to a desired fundamental frequency to within a predetermined limit. A method for making a medical ultrasound transducer assembly determines acceptable gains for gain stages of the transducer assembly.
US08152824B2	Living tissue ligation device This invention includes a clip having arms which grip living tissue, a press tube serving as a clamping member which is fitted and mounted on the clip to close the arms of the clip, a coupling member which can be inserted into the press tube and engages with the clip, and projections serving as lock portions which hold the arms of the clip in a closed state when the clip engages with the press tube.
US08152822B2	Combination therapy hemostatic clip A clip device (1612) for hemostasis includes a clip having a plurality of arms (1640, 1650) each having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein each of the arms are spaced apart from each other when the clip is in an open position and adjacent to each other when the clip is in a closed position. At least one lumen (1643, 1653) is disposed within a first of the plurality of arms and spans from the proximal end to the distal end of the first arm. At least one outlet bore is formed in the distal end of the first arm. In use, the distal ends of the plurality of arms are adapted to engage tissue in the closed position, and a sclerosing agent is adapted to be delivered to tissue via the lumen and an outlet bore formed in the first arm. Such technique facilitates treatment of the underlying bleeding using a combination of mechanical and sclerotherapy approaches.
US08152820B2	Medical device and method for human tissue and foreign body extraction A coaxial tube assembly, a bag, a bag-translating assembly, a de-bulking tool, and a drive assembly. The bag is delivered into a cavity in a patient's body either manually for open surgery or through the coaxial tube assembly by operation of the drive assembly for minimally invasive surgery. After a mass of tissue is placed in the bag, which is now secured to the bag-translating assembly, the drive assembly is operated to activate the bag-translation assembly to retract the bag into the annular space of the coaxial tube assembly. As the bag is being retracted, the mass in the bag is pulled into engagement with the de-bulking tool, which extends through the lumen of the coaxial tube assembly. The drive assembly activates the de-bulking tool to morcellate the mass in the bag and convey the morcellated bits of the mass through the lumen of the coaxial tube assembly.
US08152816B2	Computer-assisted planning method for correcting changes in the shape of joint bones The patent discloses a system and method for correcting changes in the shape of joint bones in a bone joint, including: providing a three-dimensional imaging data set of a bone joint; identifying the joint bones in the data set based on the shapes of the joint bones; inscribing a portion of a joint bone to be reconstructed with a base shape; determining contour deviations of the inscribed joint bone from the base shape by ascertaining contour distances between the base shape and the shape of the inscribed joint bone in different incision planes; determining a three-dimensional deviating volume using the contour deviations; and using the deviating volume for correction planning.
US08152809B1	Flat cut bit for cranial perforator Described herein is a cranial surgery drill bit having a safety self stopping mechanism for use on bone material to prevent or repair skin erosion and infection which may result from the placement of a cap for holding the lead from Deep Brain Stimulation surgery. The surgical procedure of attaching a lead holding cap onto the bone material of a skull requires an attachment which results in no movement of the lead. Accordingly, counter boring the skull surrounding a pre-existing perforation bore so that the cap is not significantly above the surface of the skull is a technique which allows the cap user to brush hair, etc., without disrupting the attachment and placement of the lead.
US08152799B2	Radio frequency-based catheter system with improved deflection and steering mechanisms A RF catheter system includes a catheter with a proximal portion, a distal portion having a distal end and a lumen extending from the proximal portion to the distal portion. Inner and outer coaxially aligned conductors extend within the catheter and are coaxial with the lumen. A deflectable catheter guide is disposed within the catheter lumen and extends proximally within the catheter lumen and terminates distally of the distal end of the catheter to define a biological ablation pathway. A radio-frequency antenna is disposed at the distal portion of the catheter and is in electrical communication with the inner and outer coaxially aligned conductors. The radio-frequency antenna is adaptable to receive and transmit radio-frequency energy for ablating biological tissue along the ablation pathway.
US08152794B2	Endoscopic instrument An endoscopic instrument includes a shank (2) having at least one guide channel (4, 4′) for a laser probe (8), and a flexible narrowing provided in a section of the guide channel (4) connecting to its distal end. The flexible narrowing allows a clear diameter of the guide channel (4, 4′) to be changed in at least one direction.
US08152788B2	Absorbent incontinence article with improved closure system The invention relates to an absorbent incontinence diaper (2) with a rear area (8), a front area (6) and a crotch area (12) lying between these, and with first and second side edges (5), and with a main part (4) having an inner face directed towards the body and an outer face directed away from the body during use of the diaper, the main part (4) comprising an absorption body (14) and a backsheet (10) on the side of the absorption body (14) directed away from the body, the absorption body (14) having a smaller width than the backsheet (10), and with side parts (16, 17) joined to the first and second side edges (5), the side parts (16, 17) having an inner face and an outer face, and the side parts (17) in the rear area having closure means (32) with mechanical closure aids (31). To correctly secure the diaper on the body of a user, the mechanical closure means (31) can be secured detachably at least in regions both on the outer face of the main part (4) and also on the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6). The retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the main part are lower than the retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6).
US08152784B2	Method for treating or preventing steroid-induced glaucoma An integrin antagonist reduces the occurrence of cross-linked actin network (CLAN) structures in cells of the trabecular meshwork. CLAN structures are associated with steroid-induced glaucoma. Reduction in CLAN structures is associated with increased aqueous humor outflow facility from the trabecular meshwork.
US08152783B2	Activation of bone and cartilage formation Provided is a method of activating osteogenic or chondrogenic activity at a site in a subject in need thereof. Also provided is a method of treating a bone or cartilage defect in a subject. Additionally, the use of a reduced pressure apparatus for treating a bone or cartilage defect adjacent to dura mater, periosteum, or endosteum is provided. Further provided is a composition for treating a bone or cartilage defect. Also, the use of a reduced pressure apparatus and a biocompatible scaffold for the manufacture of a composition for treating a bone or cartilage defect adjacent to dura mater, periosteum or endosteum is provided.
US08152782B2	Endoluminal occlusion-irrigation catheter with aspiration capabilities and methods of use A catheter system comprising a guidewire, an endovascular catheter, and an aspiration catheter. The guidewire has an expandable occluder mounted on a distal end. The guidewire and the endovascular catheter are insertable into a lumen of the aspiration catheter. The aspiration catheter also includes infusion and aspiration lumen(s) and port(s). Methods of using the catheter system for treating a vascular lesion and removing embolic material during the procedure are also disclosed.
US08152781B2	Safeguard cap, injection needle with safeguard cap, and medical device with safeguard cap A safeguard cap 1 is attached to an injection needle 10 that includes a hollow needle 11 and a holding member 12 for attaching the hollow needle 11 to a medical device. The safeguard cap 1 includes a housing part 2 for housing the hollow needle 11, a base 3 to be attached to the holding member 12, and a joint (bridges 4) for joining the housing part 2 and the base 3 to each other. The housing part 2 is formed in a tubular shape, with one end thereof being open and the other being closed. The joint is formed so as to be broken when external force for rotating the housing part 2 about its longitudinal axis that serves as a central axis is applied to the housing part 2, with the base 3 having been attached to the holding member 12.
US08152779B2	Needle assembly for drug pump A needle assembly adapted for fluid communication with a vial containing a substance to be delivered to a subject, the needle assembly including a needle held in a needle holder, the needle holder confined to move in a housing, and an activation mechanism for activating delivery of the substance through the needle, the activation mechanism including a safety latch that initially impedes movement of the needle holder, wherein when the safety latch is placed on the subject, the safety latch moves to a position that permits moving the needle holder to cause the needle to protrude outwards of the housing to pierce the subject to allow administration of the substance to the subject.
US08152776B2	Infusion safety strap apparatus A an arm band or strap is provided adapted to be adjustably and comfortably worn about the wrist or forearm of a patient receiving dialysis treatment. Located on the exterior of the band or strap is a pair of oppositely and axially extending tabs having an underside of hook or loop fastener material complimentary to hook or loop fastener material provided on the band or strap exterior. A pair of infusion tubes are adapted to be removably secured respectively between the tabs and the exterior surface of the strap by the interengaging action of the complimentary hook or loop fastener on the surface of the worn band or strap and the underside of each tab, respectively. The worn strap or arm band and the tabs combine to stabilize the infusion tubes during such treatment all of the while permitting safe use of the patient's hands.
US08152773B2	Instrument seal A surgical access port comprises a valve or instrument seal that separates the instrument contact function from the instrument conforming function. Embodiments of the instrument seal comprise in instrument contact element that extends through an opening in a compression element, thereby defining an instrument orifice that seals with an instrument extending therethrough. Embodiments of the instrument contact element comprise a non-distensible membrane or film, for example, as a tube or cylinder. Some embodiments of the instrument contact element have an hourglass configuration with a first end proximal of the opening of the compression element and a second end distal of the opening of the compression element. Other embodiments of the instrument contact element “wrap around” the opening in the compression element, with the first end and the second end secured to the same side of the opening, for example, proximal of the opening. Embodiments of the compression element comprise an elastomeric seal, for example, a septum seal and/or a gel seal.
US08152766B2	Device for delivering medicament encompassing a pressure release mechanism The present invention relates to a device for delivering medicament, comprising a container (12) arranged to contain medicament, which container further comprises an opening arranged to expel medicament from the container, pressure means (16, 18) arranged to exert pressure on the medicament inside the container (12) for expelling a certain predetermined quantity of the medicament through the opening, driving means (26, 42) for driving said pressure means (16, 18), and activation means (46) for activating said driving means (26, 42) wherein said device comprises pressure release means (20) which are adapted, arranged and designed such that, when the predetermined dose has been expelled through the opening, the pressure on the medicament is released.
US08152765B2	Infusion pump system with contamination-resistant features Some embodiments of an infusion pump system may include a construction that is resistant to external contaminants, such as precipitation, water splashes, sweat and the like. In particular embodiments, the infusion pump system can include a pump device that is removably attached to a controller device to provide an electrical connection therebetween. In such circumstances, the infusion pump system can be assembled as a sealed construction that protects the electrical connection between the pump device and the removable controller device.
US08152760B2	Medical balloon having a resistance to circumferential tearing and method of producing the balloon A medical balloon having a resistance to circumferential tearing comprises a substantially cylindrical portion disposed between first and second tapered portions that have a decreasing cross-sectional area along a length thereof away from the cylindrical portion. The substantially cylindrical portion includes first and second end portions and a midsection disposed therebetween. The midsection includes a first region having a first resistance to tearing and a second region having a second lower resistance to tearing, where the second region extends about only a portion of the circumference of the cylindrical portion and does not extend beyond the midsection.
US08152753B2	Ultrasound catheter and methods for making and using same Ultrasound catheter devices and methods provide enhanced disruption of blood vessel obstructions. Generally, ultrasound catheters include an elongate flexible catheter body with one or more lumens, an ultrasound transmission member extending longitudinally through the catheter body lumen and, in some embodiments, a guidewire tube extending through the lumen. A distal head for disrupting occlusions is coupled with the distal end of the ultrasound transmission member and is positioned adjacent the distal end of the catheter body. Some embodiments include improved features such as a bend in the catheter body for enhancing positioning and/or advancement of the catheter.
US08152751B2	Acoustic access disconnection systems and methods An access disconnection system includes: an arterial line; a venous line; a transmitter configured to transmit a sound wave in one of the arterial and venous lines when connected to a patient; a receiver configured to receive the sound wave from the other of the arterial and venous lines when connected to the patient; and electronic circuitry coupled to at least one of the transmitter and receiver, the circuitry configured to send a disconnection output indicative of a change in the sound waves received by the receiver from the transmitter sufficient to expect that an access disconnection of one of the arterial line and venous lines has occurred.
US08152748B2	Offloading and reduced-pressure treatment systems and methods An offloading and reduced-pressure treatment system includes an offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device, which has a plantar member formed from an offloading manifold material. The offloading and reduced-pressure treatment system further includes a reduced-pressure interface fluidly coupled to the pressure-transmitting layer of the plantar member, a reduced-pressure source, and a reduced-pressure delivery conduit fluidly coupled to the reduced-pressure source and to the offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device. The offloading manifold material includes a first barrier layer, a support layer, a pressure-transmitting layer and a second barrier layer. The offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device may also have a dorsal member and a bridge member. Methods are also presented.
US08152747B2	Spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment and device The current invention is a spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment device and controller, which delivers multiple impulses of variable frequency and variable force in a linear direction, as well as rotational forces, for patient treatment. Known chiropractic impulse devices are all hand held devices. In contrast, the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment device is mounted on a fixed stand and armature, allowing reliable positioning and directional alignment in three dimensions. Fixed mounting also facilitates ease of use. A safety coupling is incorporated to avoid patient injury due to excessive force on the treatment site in the fixed mounting scenario Smooth sinusoidal waveforms are a preferred waveform for impulse delivery and sine waves are generated digitally in the apparatus. Data validation is used to ensure correct directional alignment prior to device activation Patient safety and consistency in treatment protocols are considered in the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment design
US08152744B2	Shoe or insole fitting navigation system The present invention presents a shoe or insole fitting navigation system including a set of foot sole pressure measuring sensors for measuring foot sole pressure distributions; a set of TV cameras for taking foot images; a processor; and a monitor screen. The present system acquires right and left foot sole pressure data, acquires right and left foot images, computes a foot sole gravity center position of each foot, computes an outer dimension of each foot, and determines bias in gravity center balance of each foot accurately based on the foot sole gravity center position of each foot and the outer dimension of each foot. In addition, the present system determines an abnormal foot symptom of each foot, and selects a shoe or insole of each foot based on the determined bias in gravity center balance and the determined foot symptom.
US08152743B2	Accessory for apex locating apparatus The invention relates to an accessory for an apex locating apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a fitting (16) held with the aid of electrically conducting fastening means (20, 50) to the tooth to be treated or to a neighbouring tooth (14) and which comprises first means (36, 54) for wire-based electrical connection (44) between the apex locating apparatus (2) and the endodonty tool (46), and second means (28, 52) for wire-based electrical connection (34) between said apparatus (2) and the patient. The invention also relates to such an accessory characterized in that it comprises means for wireless electrical connection between said fitting and said apex locating apparatus.
US08152741B2	Lancet wheel The invention is related to a lancet wheel (1) having a plurality of lancets (2) in a ring-shaped arrangement, the lancets (2) comprising a lancet body (4) that ends in a lancet tip (3). A lancet wheel (1) according to the invention has a carrier (5) that carries the lancets (2), whereby the lancets (2) are connected to the carrier (5) via bars (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) that allow for mobility of the lancets (2) relative to the carrier (5).
US08152729B2	Two-dimensional array ultrasonic probe A two-dimensional array ultrasonic probe is provided with a two-dimensional ultrasonic array and a surface protection layer provided on the array. The two-dimensional ultrasonic array arranges a plurality of piezoelectric vibration elements two-dimensionally. The surface protection layer is made essentially of polybutadiene series rubber. The polybutadiene series rubber is synthesized from 100 parts by weight of polybutadiene and 1 to 5 parts by weight of glycerin.
US08152722B2	Method and apparatus for quickly determining an imaging region in an ultrasonic imaging system A method and apparatus for quickly determining an imaging region associated with the current transmission in an ultrasonic imaging system includes determining a profile of the imaging region to be processed and, in turn, boundaries of that imaging region according to characteristics of the current transmitted sound field and the demand of the imaging mode. The method also includes computing a set of rectangular coordinates of points on the imaging region to be processed according to the determined boundaries.
US08152721B2	Radial expansible retractor for minimally invasive surgery An improved radial expansible retractor and a method of minimally invasive surgery, by opening a channel in the brain or other soft tissue of a patient, by inserting the radial expansible retractor into the body of the patient, and by widening the channel at a continuous and gentle rate. The use of the improved radial expansible retractor renders surgical procedures, including neurosurgical procedures, shorter, less traumatic, and more reliable, reducing risk and the need for subsequent surgery and reducing recovery time. Procedures are carried out with real time monitoring of the retracted brain perfusion pressure. A plurality of improved radial expansible retractors may be used in a single operation. The improved radial expansible retractor allows access to areas of the brain previously almost impossible to access.
US08152720B2	Retracto component system and method of using same A blade assembly has a blade body and a blade body surround. A retractor attachment structure is attached to the blade body at the first end portion thereof extending from an exterior surface thereof. The retractor attachment structure is configured for having one of the blade body mounting structures of the retractor engaged therewith in a manner whereby the blade body is independently pivotable about and translatable along the blade body mounting structure. An alignment member protrudes from an interior surface of the blade body adjacent its first end portion. A slot extends through the blade body at its first end portion. The blade body surround and the blade body jointly form a generally cylindrical-shaped structure when the blade body is in a seated position within the slot. The cylindrical structure defines a central passage extending between the first and second end portions of blade body surround.
US08152719B2	Laryngoscope and method of use A laryngoscope blade for use in viewing the vocal cords of a patient in performance of an endotracheal intubation includes a laryngoscope blade portion connectable to a laryngoscope handle to lift the patient's tongue and mandible for viewing the vocal cords and aid in the insertion of an endotracheal tube, the blade portion includes a proximal portion and a distal portion; a white light source carried by the blade portion; a black light source carried by the blade portion to prompt the visible effects of fluorescence and phosphorescence with respect to the patient's vocal cords for viewing the vocal cords and passing of the endotracheal tube there between during endotracheal intubation, the black light source located closer to the distal portion and the white light located to the proximal portion, and the black light source emitting electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength in the range of 300 to 450 nm.
US08152715B2	Endoscope with internal light source and power supply The present invention provides an endoscope with a watertight and air-tight endoscope handle that in preferred embodiments contains in its interior a solid-state light source and a gas permeable and liquid impermeable sealed compartment holding a battery and an electronic circuit, where the sealed compartment is preferably transverse to the long axis of the endoscope handle, and, in certain embodiments, at least partially surrounded by a movable structure.
US08152712B2	Endoscope system and method for inspecting electronic endoscope An electronic endoscope has a light guide for leading a light and a solid-state image sensor for capturing an image of a human body cavity during illumination. In inspecting the number of broken optical fibers in the light guide, a cap is attached to a distal portion of the electronic endoscope. The cap has a test chart. The solid-state image sensor captures an image of the test chart which is illuminated with the light transmitted through the light guide. A photometric circuit calculates an average luminance value “Y” of the test chart from a chart image signal. A broken fiber number calculator calculates the number “N” of broken optical fibers that satisfies N=M×(1−Y/I). “Y” represents an average luminance value of the test chart. “I” represents an ideal average luminance value when all optical fibers are conducting, and “M” represents the total number of the optical fibers.
US08152711B2	Implantable peristaltic pump to treat erectile dysfunction A method is provided for controlling blood flow through a blood vessel of a subject. The method includes implanting a pump outside of the blood vessel and placing within the blood vessel an expansion element that is capable of expanding the blood vessel subsequent to compression of the blood vessel by the pump. Other embodiments are also described.
US08152710B2	Physiological parameter analysis for an implantable restriction device and a data logger An implantable restriction device can be configured to provide a restriction in a patient, for example as a function of the pressure of fluid. The implantable restriction device can include one or more sensors configured to sense a variety of parameters, such as pressure of the fluid within the implantable restriction device, pulse width, pulse amplitude, pulse count, pulse duration, or frequency, electrical characteristics, or other parameters. Data obtained by the one or more sensors (for example, the data representing pressure, pulse characteristics, and so on) may be communicated to a device located external to the patient, such as a data logger, using telemetry coils or other communicators. The data logger may store the data, and may communicate the data to a remote location via a network such as the Internet. A docking station may be provided to couple the data logger to a network and/or to recharge a cell in the data logger. The logged data may be analyzed and/or displayed using a variety of techniques to assess and/or track the condition of the restriction device or of the patient, to monitor patient physiology, or for other purposes.
US08152709B2	Magnetic therapeutic pad for a human spine The present patent application is directed to a magnetic therapeutic pad for a human spine. The magnetic therapeutic pad includes a substrate layer and a support layer above the substrate layer. The support layer includes a plurality of ridge frames spaced with one another. Upper edges of the ridge frames protrude out from an upper surface of the substrate layer. A plurality of magnets are disposed on the upper edges of the ridge frames according to the human meridian system. The ridge frames respectively correspond to a Governor meridian, inner Urinary Bladder meridians, and outer Urinary Bladder meridians on a human's back. The upper edges of the ridge frames form a curvature that is compatible with a curvature of a human back.
US08152708B2	Decanting centrifuge with sliding engagement between decant ring and processing unit A centrifuge has a rotor for receiving a disposable processing unit. The centrifuge is configured such that the motor is attached to an enclosure and the enclosure is supported on a base. The connection between the base and the enclosure is a vibration isolator, and the isolator is positioned such that its effective line of action aligns with the effective plane of rotation of the rotor. In accordance with another feature of the invention, the processing units are held in a decanting position by a decant ring that moves vertically but does not rotate. The ring engages the top of the processing unit during decant and the abrasion is minimal.
US08152699B1	Apparatus and method for reduced-gravity simulation The present invention comprises an apparatus and method for gravity-balanced apparatuses for training humans for space exploration and other applications. The embodiment of the simulation apparatus is less expensive to build and safe to operate and adaptable to numerous applications, including but not limited to theme parks, museums, training facilities, educational/research labs, and others, for people to experience walking and other perambulations in lower or zero gravity environments. The present invention is statically-balanced and comprises a spring apparatus that is easily adjusted. An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus and method for simulating walking in a zero-gravity or reduced-gravity environment.
US08152698B1	Dual-mode exercise machine A dual-mode exercise machine includes a base, a swivel, two pedals, two impedance elements, a linkage and a pin. The swivel is pivotally connected to the base. The pedals are pivotally connected to the swivel. Each impedance element connects a related pedal to the swivel. The linkage includes a middle lever pivotally connected to the base and two lateral levers each for connecting a related pedal to the middle lever so that the pedals can be pivoted up and down alternately. The pin can be inserted in an aperture of the swivel and an aperture of the base to prevent the pivotal of the swivel but allow the pivotal of the middle lever. Alternatively, the pin can be inserted in an aperture of the middle lever and another aperture of the base to prevent the pivotal of the middle lever but allow the pivotal of the swivel.
US08152692B2	Controller for vehicle power transmission apparatus A discharge capacity reduction device that, while neutral control is performed, reduces the discharge capacity of an oil pump that is driven by the engine is provided, so that the load applied to the oil pump is reduced. Thus, the load applied to the engine is reduced and it is possible to further reduce the engine output, so that it is possible to further improve fuel economy.
US08152691B2	Shift control method for an automatic group transmission A method for controlling shifts in an automated group transmission that comprises a multi-stage main transmission, a multi-stage splitter group connected upstream from the main transmission and a multi-stage range-change group connected downstream from the main transmission. The method includes the steps of disengaging the separator clutch to relieve the load of the motor; shifting range-change group to neutral and bringing the speed of the motor to the synchronous speed of the target gear; braking the main transmission and the splitter or upstream group via a transmission brake; changing the transmission ratios in the main transmission and in the splitter group; synchronizing the range-change group by partially engaging the separator clutch; engaging the desired transmission ratio in the range-change group; and simultaneously increasing the load on the drive motor and fully engaging the separator clutch.
US08152690B2	Engine revolutions control device of working vehicle and method To provide an engine revolutions control device of a working vehicle that the braking effect can be obtained by the low-speed speed gear as expected by the operator at the time of forward/reverse changeover and the durability of the clutch can be enhanced without increasing the capacity of the clutch. When the low-speed gear change range suitable for the work is selected by the shift range lever and the speed gear clutch corresponding to the maximum speed gear of the selected gear change range in the individual speed gear clutches is engaged, the throttle amount upper limit value which limits the revolutions of the engine so to have the upper limit vehicle speed or less corresponding to the maximum speed gear is determined, and it is output as a throttle amount correction command signal to an engine controller. The engine controller compares the content of the throttle correction command signal input from the transmission controller, namely the throttle amount upper limit value with a throttle amount as a depressing operation amount of the accelerator pedal, generates as the corrected throttle amount the smaller throttle amount and controls the engine 1 so that the target revolutions according to the corrected throttle amount can be obtained.
US08152689B2	Drive train as well as a method of operating a hydraulic pump of a drive train A method of operating a hydraulic pump of a drive train of a motor vehicle having a transmission with a hydrodynamic torque converter and a engine, with the input speed of the hydraulic pump being adjusted depending on the speed of the engine. The input speed of the hydraulic pump is adjusted depending on the pump speed of the torque converter, which corresponds to the speed of the engine and depends on the turbine speed of the torque converter, such that when the pump speed of the torque converter is higher than the turbine speed of the same, the hydraulic pump is operated at a speed higher than the speed of the engine. When the turbine speed of the torque converter and the pump speed of the same equalize, the excessive increase in the input speed of the hydraulic pump is reduced in relation to the speed of the engine.
US08152685B2	Planetary drive servo actuator A planetary drive servo actuator comprises a drive assembly operable to turn an output shaft. The drive assembly includes an outer cylinder configured to rotate within the housing and an inner cylinder configured to rotate within the outer cylinder. A clutch is operable to prevent the outer cylinder from rotating within the housing and to allow the inner cylinder to be rotated within the outer cylinder to turn the output shaft.
US08152684B2	Multi-speed transmission A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
US08152681B2	Gear train of automatic transmission for vehicles A gear train of an automatic transmission for vehicles has the advantages of improving power delivery performance and reducing fuel consumption as a consequence of realizing more than eight forward speeds by combining four planetary gear sets with three clutches and three brakes.
US08152679B2	Rotary units, rotary mechanisms, and related applications The invention relates to rotary units and rotary mechanisms that are suitable for use in numerous applications. Rotary units typically include rotational components that are configured to rotate. In some embodiments, for example, multiple rotary units are assembled in rotary mechanisms such that neighboring pairs of rotational components counter-rotate or contra-rotate relative to one another during operation of the rotary mechanisms. Rotational components generally include one or more implements that are structured to perform or effect one or more types of work as the rotational components rotate relative to one another in a given rotary mechanism. In certain embodiments, implements are configured to rotate and/or to effect the movement of other components as rotational components rotate.
US08152672B2	Differential assembly including differential lock and blocking member A differential assembly includes an axle, a differential, a differential lock, a blocking member, and a pump. The differential is coupled with the axle and configured to facilitate operation of the axle at an axle speed. The differential lock is associated with the differential and movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The blocking member is associated with the differential lock and is movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. When the blocking member is in the blocking position, the differential lock is inhibited from moving to the locked position. The pump includes an outlet in fluid communication with the blocking member. The pump is operably coupled with the axle and is configured to facilitate movement of the blocking member into the blocking position when the axle speed is above a threshold speed. Vehicles including a differential assembly are also provided.
US08152671B2	Single clutch, two planetary hybrid architecture A hybrid powertrain for a vehicle includes a prime mover, which may be an engine, and a transmission that has an input member configured for connection with the prime mover to receive torque from the prime mover, an output member, and a stationary member. A first motor/generator and a second motor/generator are provided as additional motive sources. A first planetary gear set and a second planetary gear set are included, each having a respective first member, second member, and third member. Only one clutch is operatively connected to the transmission, and it is selectively engagable to ground the input member and the first member of the second planetary gear set to the stationary member.
US08152669B2	Clutch arrangements for an electrically-variable transmission Various embodiments of electrically-variable transmissions are provided that have a first and a second motor-generator, a first and a second planetary gear set, and two torque-transmitting mechanisms, including a rotating-type clutch and a stationary-type clutch. An input member is connected for common rotation with a ring gear of the first planetary gear set. Carriers of both of the planetary gear sets are connected for common rotation with one another, and with an output member. The first motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear of the first planetary gear set. The second motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear of the second planetary gear set. The rotating-type torque-transmitting mechanism is a dog clutch with a synchronizer. The stationary-type torque-transmitting mechanism may be either a dog clutch with a synchronizer or a selectable one-way braking clutch (SOWBC).
US08152665B2	Pulley structure and belt-type continuously variable transmission A fixed sheave mounted on an input shaft and a movable sheave mounted on a cylindrical member that is slidably supported in the axial direction relative to the input shaft are respectively structured using annular members having the same shape. With this structure, the fixed sheave and the movable sheave can be common structural components, thereby enabling the structural components to be easily formed by making the shape thereof relatively simple. As a result, productivity can be further improved.
US08152661B2	Lacrosse training method and apparatus A training device for teaching proper mechanics of aiming and propelling a lacrosse ball is disclosed. The training device is a lacrosse stick including a shaft portion, a head portion, and an end cap. The end cap includes a light source that generates a beam of visible light capable of forming a visible light point on a surface remote from the user. In operation, a user orients a lacrosse stick in a starting position to align the eye of the stick with a target. The user directs the light point generated by the light source onto the target, and then moves the lacrosse stick in a motion sufficient to propel the lacrosse ball from the head portion toward the target.
US08152659B1	Football holder A football holder for holding extra footballs on the side or hips of the quarterback until the quarterback is ready to throw the extra footballs. A pair of holders attach to the quarterback with a waist strap and two leg straps. Each holder has two spring-loaded cupped ends that are biased toward each other for holding the football there between. A football is inserted in the holder by spreading apart the two cupped ends and inserting the ends of the football between the two cupped ends of the holder. The bottom cupped end has a notch cut out of it to facilitate removal of the football from the holder by applying a twisting motion to the football.
US08152658B2	Method and apparatus for analyzing a pitched ball Analysis of pitches to determine both their velocity and the location at which they arrive at the batter. The speed of the pitch is adjusted according to an adjustment value whose magnitude is a function of the location of the pitch relative to the batter. For example, high outside pitches would have a different adjustment value than low inside pitches. These adjustment values are calculated to take into account the fact that hitters must swing at different pitches at different times. That is, they must swing at some pitches earlier than others, depending on the location of the pitch. The adjusted speed, or “effective velocity,” of the pitch is thus a function of both the pitch's velocity and its location relative to the batter, making it a more useful metric than velocity or location alone.
US08152655B2	Multi-piece golf ball comprising low hardness gradient core A golf ball includes a single core formed from a substantially homogenous rubber composition, an inner cover disposed about the core, and an outer cover. The inner cover includes an ionomeric material and has a hardness of about 60 Shore D or greater. The outer cover layer is disposed about the inner cover layer, is formed from a castable polyurea or polyurethane, and has a material hardness of about 60 Shore D or less. The outer surface of the core has a trans content of about 12% or less and a hardness of about 71 to 88 Shore C, the geometric center of the core has a trans content of about 10% or less and a hardness of about 70 to 80 Shore C, and the core surface hardness is greater than the geometric center hardness by about 1 to 10 Shore C to define a shallow positive hardness gradient.
US08152653B2	Thick inner cover multi-layer golf ball A golf ball including a core having an outer surface and a geometric center and being formed from a substantially homogenous composition throughout, the core having a diameter of 1.20 inches or less, a compression of 45 or less, and a coefficient of restitution of 0.780 or greater. An outer cover having a thickness of 0.04 inches or less and having a material Shore D hardness of 55 or less is present along with an intermediate layer disposed between the core and the outer cover. The intermediate layer has a thickness of 0.14 inches or greater and a Shore D hardness of 60 to 70. The outer surface of the core has a first hardness and the geometric center of the core has a second hardness, the first hardness being substantially the same as or lower than the second hardness to define a “negative” hardness gradient.
US08152649B2	Golf putter and grid for training a golf putting method A golf system for training a golf player includes a golf putter designed to train the user in practicing an unconventional motion and a grid for guiding the motion of the golf putter. The golf putter includes a club head and a plurality of marking instruments such as styluses for marking the trajectory of the putter. The grid includes an enclosure, a recording device to record the trajectory of the golf putter, a plurality of guiding rails and an optional leveling device as well as an optional aiming device, thereby allowing the user to analyze his/her putting trajectory.
US08152648B2	Whitewater terrain park systems Disclosed is a whitewater park and whitewater park systems. A recreational waterfall system for traversal by watercraft that includes at least one headgate to produce a surge of water over a waterfall and to limit access to the waterfall by watercraft. A recreational watercraft launch that accelerates a watercraft while traversing said waterfall and a downstream crest a variable exit geometry causes the watercraft to be directed in an upward direction. A recreational waterfall has water flowing over a crest with variable cantilever determining a distance from the edge that the water flowing over the crest impacts water in the pool. A whitewater park has multiple routes of varying difficulties between pools.
US08152647B2	Lift off child swing with recline and swivel An infant swing has a base member supported by hanger members for reciprocal movement. A seat that can be utilized in other applications is detachably mounted on and latched to the base member, which is formed with a swivel mechanism that allows the seat to be selectively positioned in a back-and-forth swing configuration or a sideways swing configuration. The swivel mechanism utilizes a triangular guide that engages an elliptical retainer to cause a lateral shift in the center of gravity of the seat when re-positioned. The base member also incorporates a recline mechanism that can be actuated with one hand. The recline actuation mechanism uses a self-centering push bar that is formed with protrusions engaged with slotted channels to lock the seat in a selected recline position. The push bar is operable to either transverse direction to release the protrusions from the slotted channels for selecting the new recline position.
US08152645B2	Remote gaming environment A gambler's gaming experience is extended outside the traditional gaming environment by providing a remote gaming environment that duplicates the sights, sounds, smells, and experience of a traditional casino floor. The remote gaming environment may be networked into a customer service center to help resolve issues and prevent fraud.
US08152642B2	Apparatus and methods for authenticating a user of an entertainment device using a mobile communication device Various embodiments of apparatus and/or methods are described for remotely controlling an entertainment device using a mobile communication device. A user utilizes a mobile communication device to input information that requests manipulation of playback of content outputted for presentation by an entertainment device. The mobile communication device transmits the user input to the entertainment device and furthers transmits identifying data regarding the user. Responsive to receiving the user input and the identifying data, the mobile communication device authenticates the user and outputs the content for presentation to a user based on the user input.
US08152636B2	Party kits with characters matched to virtual animation characters Party kits are provided with are used in bowling environments, and more particularly to party kits having characters related to animated characters which are used in bowling environments including, for example, with automated bowling scoring systems. The party includes include party gifts having at least one character thereon related to one or more animated characters associated with a theme. The one or more animated characters are displayed on one or more systems in the bowling center. The kit also includes party supplies having the at least one character thereon which are related to the one or more animated characters displayed on the one or more systems in the bowling center.
US08152635B2	Providing network and game content based on wireless signals Providing content on a web site based on content in a game based. A wireless signal may be detected. Content in a game may be provided based on the detection of the wireless signal. The content may have been unavailable in the game prior to said detecting the wireless signal. For example, a characteristic of the wireless signal (e.g., an ID of a wireless signal from a wireless access point) may be determined and the content may be based on the characteristic of the wireless signal. Information regarding the content may be provided to one or more computer systems over a network, which may be configured to provide an indication of the content in the game on the web site based on the information.
US08152634B2	Switching operation modes in mobile wager gaming devices This disclosure describes methods and wager gaming devices that can enter different operation modes based on different network connections. In one embodiment, a method includes connecting to a content provider via a first network connection, wherein connecting to the content provider via the first network connection enables a first mode of operation and prohibits a second mode of operation. The method can also include operating in the first mode of operation. The method can also include connecting to the content provider via a second network connection, wherein connecting to the content provider via the second network connection enables the second mode of operation. The method can also include operating in the second mode of operation, wherein the operating includes, presenting a wagering game upon which monetary value can be wagered.
US08152631B2	Streaming video for electronic gaming machines with real-time interactive control An illustrative method provides real-time streaming video generated and transmitted from a server to an electronic gaming machine (EGM) that permits wagering on games. The EGM transmits a video request to the server during the play of a first game on the EGM. The video request includes information that specifies corresponding video images to be displayed during the play of the first game. Streaming video information is generated by and received from the server in response to the video request and processed to create the video images. The video images are displayed by the EGM during the ongoing play of the first game.
US08152630B2	Gaming system and method having bonus event and bonus event award in accordance with a current wager and one or more accumulated bonus event points In one embodiment, the gaming system and method disclosed herein maintains a plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts which are ranked. In one embodiment, if a bonus event triggering condition occurs, the gaming system determines one of the plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts to utilize for the triggered bonus event. In one such embodiment, the determined bonus event average expected payout is based on a player's current wager and a quantity of accumulated bonus event points or units. In this embodiment, the gaming system enables players to accumulate bonus event points based on one or more aspects of a player's previous gaming experiences during a designated period of time. The gaming system then displays a bonus event to the player and determines a bonus event award, wherein the determined bonus event award is in accordance with the determined bonus event average expected payout.
US08152624B2	Gaming device and method providing a plurality of plays of a background game resulting in a single award for the player A gaming device, system and method which enables a player to apply a large wager amount to a plurality of plays of a background game in increments or portions. The gaming device apportions or applies the large wager amount to a plurality of plays of a background game. The gaming device displays a play of the primary game to the player that provides a primary game outcome which has an award equal to the amount of the sum of the background game results.
US08152623B2	Wagering game with two-way cascading reel A gaming terminal (1) and a method for playing a wagering game utilizing a two-way cascading symbol feature are disclosed. The wagering terminal has first and second displays, with a first game outcome displayed as a plurality of symbols (14) on the first display (15). The symbols (14) are analyzed to determine if they satisfy a predetermined condition. All symbols satisfying the condition are added to the second display (17). The symbols (16) in the second display (17) then are analyzed for a winning combination. If no winning combination exists, the game is over. A winning combination awards the player credits, before removing the winning symbols from the second display (17). All remaining symbols shift down one position. The symbols (16) in the upper display (17) are analyzed until no more winning combinations exists.
US08152622B2	Gaming system and method having controllably rotatable directing devices for use with a marker A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a first game region comprising a plurality of game portions, and a second game region contiguous with each of the game portions. The second game region comprises a plurality of directing devices, with each directing device being selectively individually controllable so that a marker disposed in the second game region is directable into any game portion of the first region by one or more of the directing devices. A winning outcome is indicated based on the game portion into which a marker is directed during use. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US08152620B2	Method for initializing a game, and a gaming machine The invention relates to a method for initializing a desired game in an electronic gaming machine, in which a predefined fee has to be paid in order to play the game and the events of the game are displayed on a screen. According to the invention the player is offered the following alternatives a) he can decline the offer of a preliminary game which is played before the desired game, or b) he can play this preliminary game, if he declines the preliminary game, the main game is played with predefined chances of winning and predefined win amounts, when the preliminary game, which permits only a win or a loss—i.e. without setting or paying a win amount—, is selected and after it is played, the win or loss of the preliminary game is established, the main game is played when the preliminary game is won, and, when the preliminary game is lost, game play is ended, the money inserted is lost, and the gaming machine may offer the player the stated alternatives again.
US08152618B1	Advancements in computerized poker training and analysis A training and analysis method and system for the card game poker are disclosed. Some embodiments can be run in an Internet browser. Some embodiments introduce “dynamic analysis”, which examines the end user's long term strengths and weaknesses. In other words, the analysis is done considering all the end user's actions both individually and as a whole picture. The end user can receive a detailed analysis of past performance at any point in the poker session.
US08152617B2	Card game interface Among other things, a system includes a card-game table that includes visually defined regions on a surface of the card-game table to accommodate one or more card hands of each of one or more participants in addition to one or more separate card hands of a house entity. An analysis system is associated with the card table and configured to receive data representing at least a value associated with each card from a group of cards dealt by a dealer to the one or more hands of each participant in addition to the one or more separate hands of the house; process the received data to calculate scores and odds for the one or more hands of each participant in addition to the one or more separate hands of the house, and generate an output signal indicative of the calculated scores and odds.
US08152616B2	Casino game with pay line multipliers A pay line multiplier is randomly selected for each active pay line. The pay line multiplier varies for each round of play. An extra wager may be required from the player to activate this feature during the play of a casino game. A player makes a wager to activate at least two pay lines to be played in the casino game. For each active pay line, a multiplier is randomly selected a multiplier from a group of various multipliers and the selected multiplier is assigned to the activated pay line. The casino game is then played to achieve an outcome on each pay line. Each pay line that has a winning outcome has any associated award increased by the multiplier for that pay line.
US08152611B2	Game program A CPU core determines whether a stick is in contact with a touch panel based on an output signal from the touch panel; if not in contact, a gazing point of a virtual camera is moved to a collective center of masses for objects; on the other hand, if the stick is in contact with the touch panel, setting values for the camera are fixed, an operation target object is caused to appear at a position, in a game space, corresponding to touch coordinates, and, then, the operation target object is moved in accordance with a dragging operation from a player; the setting values for the camera are fixed until the stick detaches from the touch panel; and, accordingly, when the player moves an arbitrary object in the three dimensional game space by operating the touch panel, the player can accurately move the object to an intended point.
US08152607B2	Portable work station A portable work station including a main housing, a fan and motor housing, transition housing and an exhaust housing with the housings being selectively removably secured together rather than being welded as in the prior art. The work station includes a ballast compartment in the main housing into which ballast material may be placed to stabilize the work station. The work station includes supports for the framework of a drape assembly with the supports being selectively removably secured to the main housing.
US08152605B1	Handheld cervical dislocator A handheld cervical dislocator that will encircle the neck of poultry of most any size and dislocate the neck vertebrae from the skull immediately to terminate the life of culled poultry with minimum discomfort.
US08152604B2	Detecting structure for a stuffing apparatus A detecting structure for a stuffing apparatus includes: a stuffing nozzle having a material discharge port and a photoelectric sensor for detecting a terminating end of a casing loaded on an outer periphery of the stuffing nozzle, wherein the photoelectric sensor is accommodated in a protective case having a transparent portion, and a first air supplying arrangement for supplying air into the protective case is provided on the protective case. Further, the first air supplying arrangement may have an air nozzle which is provided in the protective case and jets air toward an inner surface of the transparent portion. Still further, second air supplying arrangement may be provided for supplying air toward an outer surface of the transparent portion. Furthermore, third air supplying arrangement may be provided for supplying air toward the casing.
US08152603B2	Slide holder for sample holder for grinder/polisher A slide holder for mounting to a sample holder having a pair of openings therein, for a grinder/polisher includes a plate for receiving the slide. The slide holder includes a pair of stems extending from the plate and configured and spaced for receipt in the sample holder openings. A locking element is mounted to each stem. The locking elements are mounted to pivot eccentrically relative to a center axis of each stem. The stems are inserted into the sample holder openings and the locking elements are pivoted to lock the slide holder to the sample holder and to prevent the stems from disengaging from the sample holder.
US08152602B2	Grinder and core drill with dust collection A core drill or a grinder power tool design is disclosed herein also incorporated to a dust collection apparatus. The tool has a motor portion and a shaft portion, the shaft portion being characterized by a hollow shaft together with a casing forming a conduit for the dust created during coring or grinding applications. A harness is provided to the collection apparatus and the overall design is portable and functional right-handed or left-handed. A ring gear configuration is provided to transfer shaft power at a right angle. Further, several bearings are introduced to align shafts and absorb thrust created while applying pressure to a work piece. Power is additionally supplied to the power tool via a special modification to the collection apparatus.
US08152601B2	Motor-driven machine tool A motor-driven machine tool (1) with a tool that can be rotatably driven comprises a drive shaft (5) and a tool shaft (6) on which the tool is received, the rotational movement of the drive shaft being transmissible onto the tool shaft via a coupling device (8). The drive shaft is rotatably received in pivot bearings (14, 15) in the housing of the machine tool, the coupling device acting upon the drive shaft in the portion between the two pivot bearings.
US08152599B2	Method and tool for maintenance of hard surfaces, and a method for manufacturing such a tool A method is disclosed for maintaining a hard surface, the method comprising treating the surface with a flexible pad (1), in the presence of abrasive particles, bonded to the pad, on a contact surface between the pad (1) and the hard surface. The abrasive particles comprise diamond particles, and the treating is performed in the absence of an effective amount of crystallization agent on the contact surface.A tool for use in the method is also provided, as well as a floor surfacing machine comprising such a tool and a method for manufacturing such a tool.
US08152597B2	Wafer grinding method and wafer grinding machine A wafer grinding method and a wafer grinding machine are disclosed for grinding a wafer by executing both the rough grinding process and the finish grinding process. After the rough grinding process before the finish grinding process, the wafer thickness is measured with a noncontact-type thickness gauge, and during the finish grinding process, the finish thickness is finely adjusted by use of a contact-type thickness gauge and referring to the measurement data of the noncontact-type thickness gauge.
US08152591B2	Garment and brassiere accessory A garment and brassiere accessory that is substantially triangular in shape having attachment straps extending outward from upper corners of the undergarment that may be looped around shoulder straps of a brassiere. In addition, a lower corner may be looped around a center portion of the brassiere. An upper band of preferably elastomeric material located along an upper edge of the undergarment keeps the undergarment securely against a woman's chest while being worn. The undergarment is preferably constructed from two layers of material, an outer layer and an inner layer so that the outer layer hides any wrinkles or indentations caused by the stress of the lower corner pulling on the inner layer while the undergarment is being worn. Additional features include extension straps that allow a user to adapt the undergarment to a larger chest and/or brassiere size or to wear the undergarment without a brassiere and detachable jewelry.
US08152578B2	Drive train coupling A joint 10 is shown for transmission of torque between an input shaft 12 and an output shaft 14. In the form shown, the joint 10 comprises an outermost helical coil spring 16 and an innermost helical coil spring 18, both of which are connected at their respective opposite ends to the input shaft 12 and to the output shaft 14. The innermost helical spring 18 is arranged to be entirely located within, and co-axially aligned with, the outermost helical spring 16 along the same centerline. The springs 16, 18 are arranged to be counter wound relative to one another to provide delivery of torque in a stabilised manner reflected in a significant reduction in the vibration observed within the joint 10 during use. The joint 10 is also arranged for transmission of thrust (or axial force) between the input shaft 12 and the output shaft 14. The joint 10 comprises a plurality of substantially incompressible members in the form of ball bearings 22 that are located within the innermost helical spring 18 and which are contactable with one another to form a thrust transmitting assembly between the input shaft 12 and the output shaft 14.
US08152568B2	Cable assembly with new interface A cable assembly (100) comprises a case (2) having a receiving room (25); a printed circuit board (3) received into the receiving room; a cable (5) extended into the receiving room and electrically connected with a rear portion of the printed circuit board; and a terminal module (4) disposed in the receiving room and electrically connected with a front portion of the printed circuit board. The terminal module has an insulative housing (411, 421), a set of first signal terminals (412) and a set of second signal terminals (422) disposed in the insulative housing. Each of first and second signal terminal has a mating section (4121, 4221) extending to a top surface of the insulative housing. The mating section (4121) of each first signal terminal is in alignment with the mating section (4221) of each second signal terminal along a front to rear direction.
US08152565B2	Sealed connectors for portable electronic devices A portable electronic device may have a sealed connector secured within a device housing. The sealed connector may have a metal shell. A plastic contact housing may be insert molded within the shell. Conductive signal contacts may be laterally spaced in the contact housing. An elastomeric gasket may be assembled or compression molded onto the metal shell. Left and right metal brackets may be welded onto the metal shell to moisture-seal latch windows. A water-resistant sealing layer may be attached to the bottom plate of the metal shell to moisture-seal alignment rail windows. The sealed connector may be pressed against the device housing to place the gasket in a compressed state. The connector may be secured to the device housing by screwing down the metal brackets to a circuit board assembled within the housing while the gasket is in the compressed state.
US08152562B2	Cable panel mount An electrical connector system configured to be attached to a support structure is disclosed. The electrical connector system may include a mount capable of being attached to the support structure. The mount may include a bezel and a flange. The bezel may define a first opening, a second opening and aperture. The flange may be integrally formed with and extending outwardly from the bezel. The first opening may be capable of receiving a first power connector and the second opening is capable of receiving a second power connector. The second power connector is capable of extending into the aperture of the bezel such that the first and second power connectors mate.
US08152561B2	Cantilevered mounted bracket with a receptacle with multiple degrees of motion A holder is capable of providing flexible support for the connector of a flexible printed circuit board, and has particular applicability for battery recharging cradles for a mobile computing device or hand-held scanner. The holder comprises a receptacle having a rear wall and two side walls, along with protrusions to slidably retain the connector therein. The rear wall connects, using a radiused bend, to a connecting wall, which may form an acute angle relative to the rear wall, and which may neck down to improve rotational capability. The connecting wall transitions, using a radiused bend, to a transverse wall, and from its ends are two cantilever straps extending towards the receptacle, and thereby forming an acute angle relative to the connecting wall. An upward protruding boss on the end of each strap aids translational and rotational flexibility, where the holder is mounted to a surface using orifices in the bosses.
US08152560B2	Connectivity sensing assembly A receptacle assembly includes a housing having a front mating face and receptacles configured to receive plugs therein through the front mating face, where the plugs have connectivity pins attached thereto. The receptacle module includes connectivity sensor areas associated with the receptacles, where each connectivity sensor area is positioned adjacent the corresponding receptacle. Each connectivity sensor area has a first connectivity sensor and a second connectivity sensor that is electrically isolated from the first connectivity sensor when the plug is disconnected from the receptacle. Both the first and second connectivity sensors are configured to be engaged by different connectivity pins of the plug when the plug is received in the corresponding receptacle to form a sense circuit.
US08152555B2	Electrical connector assembly An electrical connector assembly (100), comprises: a housing (1) having a receiving room (11) therein communicated with an exterior along a longitudinal direction and defining a receiving cavity (14) formed on a top surface thereof. A pair of supporting posts (143) are formed in the receiving cavity. Two paralleled printed circuit boards (2) are received into the receiving room and positioned in the housing. A latching member (6) is located in the receiving cavity and engaged with the housing. A pulling member (7) is supported by the top surface of the housing and having a front portion extending into the receiving cavity and interconnected with the latching member. The pulling member defines a curving portion (722) supported by the pair of supporting posts.
US08152548B2	Connector apparatus A connector apparatus includes first and second connectors that can be engaged with each other. The first connector includes a first contact and a first main body that supports the first contact. The first connector is conductive. The first main body is insulative. The second connector includes a second contact and a second main body that supports the second contact. The second contact is conductive. The second main body is insulative. The first contact includes a first connection part that can contact the second contact. The second contact includes a second connection part that can contact the first connection part at plural portions of the first connection part. The first and second connection parts substantially have the same shape and size.
US08152545B1	Card connector A card connector includes an insulating housing defining a first receiving chamber and a second receiving chamber, a monitoring terminal fastened in one side of the insulating housing and having a contact plate, a first switch terminal fastened in the one side of the insulating housing and having a first pressing arm slantwise extending into the first receiving chamber and a first contact portion formed at a distal end of the first pressing arm for elastically contacting the contact plate by means of pressing the first pressing arm sideward, and a second switch terminal fastened in the one side of the insulating housing and having a second pressing arm slantwise stretching into the second receiving chamber and a second contact portion formed at a distal end of the second pressing arm for elastically contacting the contact plate by means of pressing the second pressing arm sideward.
US08152540B2	Connector terminal protection cap and harness assembly An object of the present invention is to provide a connector terminal protection cap for a harness and a harness assembly that are capable of protecting connector terminals provided on one end of a harness and that does not come off easily during transfer or transport but can be easily removed at an assembly site. Provided are a connector terminal protection cap that is made of plastic and is attached to a connector provided on one end of a harness to protect connector terminals, the connector terminal protection cap including a cap main body that has an opening at one end thereof that serves as a mating portion to be fitted to a connector main body and a cap-shaped cylinder portion that is formed integrally with and continuously from the mating portion to cover an outer circumference of the terminals, and a pair of pawl members and that are provided at opposing positions on an outer circumference of the mating portion of the cap main body, anchoring to the connector main body, thereby attaching the cap main body to the connector main body in a freely attachable/detachable manner.
US08152537B1	Split conductive mid-span ground clamp A grounding clamp positioned on a coaxial cable at a location other than an end of the coaxial cable, wherein the grounding clamp includes a first shell portion disposed over an elastomeric sleeve, the elastomeric sleeve having a slit extending therethrough; a second shell portion disposed over the elastomeric sleeve, wherein the first shell portion and second shell portion securably join to form an outer shell, the outer shell having a first end and an opposing second end; and a conductive bonding contact at least partially surrounded by the elastomeric sleeve, the conductive bonding contact at least partially surrounding an exposed outer conductive portion of a coaxial cable; wherein tightening of the first shell portion to the second shell portion drives the conductive bonding contact into contact with the exposed outer conductive portion of the coaxial cable to facilitate an adequate electrical grounding connection. Furthermore, an associated method for maintaining ground continuity is also provided.
US08152534B1	Connector used for connecting a coaxial cable and a microstrip A connector comprises a coaxial connector and two metallic blocks. The coaxial connector has an outer conductor, a dielectric material, a mounting wall, and a center conductor. The space between the two conductors of the coaxial connector is filled with the dielectric material. The center conductor is extended from the inside of the coaxial connector to the other side of the mounting wall. The two metallic blocks are split from a metallic plate with a circular through hole in the center by milling across the plate at a proper position. Both metallic blocks are attached to the mounting wall of the coaxial connector with the extended center conductor placed in the center of the original through hole and surrounded by the recesses of the two blocks. Hence, the connector improves the transmission passband of a transition between a coaxial cable and a microstrip line at high frequencies.
US08152533B1	Electrical connector Provided is an electrical connector, including a case, a plurality of contacts and a magnetic unit. The case has a receiving cavity and formed by mounting a first shell, a second shell and a third shell. The second shell is mounted on the front of the first shell, and the third shell is mounted on the above of the first and second shells. The contacts are inserted into the case from the second shell, and pass through the receiving cavity to extend out of the first shell. Rear ends of the contacts are held by and soldered on the solder-assist pieces. The magnetic unit includes at least two magnetic bodies separately located on the upside and downside of the contacts, so that efficiently using the inside space of the electrical connector, increasing the size of the magnetic unit and enhancing the magnetic attraction.
US08152532B2	Interactive education system for teaching patient care An interactive education system for teaching patient care to a user is described. The system comprises a patient simulator; a virtual instrument for use with the patient simulator in performing patient care activities; means for sensing an interaction between the virtual instrument and the simulator, and means for providing feedback to the user regarding the interaction between the virtual instrument and the simulator. In one aspect, the system includes a maternal simulator, a fetal simulator, and a neonatal simulator.
US08152527B2	Gun aiming method A method of practicing aiming of a gun at a moving target includes providing a first simulated target, providing a second simulated target in spaced-apart relationship with respect to the first simulated target, providing a gun, positioning the gun with respect to the first simulated target and the second simulated target and repeatedly aiming the gun at the second simulated target while visually focusing on the first simulated target. The first simulated target represents a position of the moving target upon shooting of shot from the gun. The second simulated target represents a position of the moving target upon striking of the moving target with the shot.
US08152524B2	Dental handpiece Two nozzles 37 in pair are provided along an inner circumferential surface 21a of a concavity 21, air is blown out in a space from a blowout hole 37a provided at a tip end portion of the nozzle from a side where the nozzle 37 is provided aiming at an opposite side along an inner circumferential surface of the space and a powder contained in the concavity 21 is caused to rise up in the space, whereby the condition of the powder mixed with the air within the space is improved.
US08152523B2	Method and system for comprehensive evaluation of orthodontic care using unified workstation A method and system for orthodontic treatment planning, evaluation and quality measurement is provided comprising a workstation having computing platform, a graphical user interface, a processor and a computer storage medium containing digitized records pertaining to a patient. The digitized records include image and other types of data. The computer storage medium further includes a set of software instructions providing graphical user interface tools for providing a user with access to the digitized records for planning orthodontic treatment of a patient. Also provided are reference databases for aiding in the decision process during treatment selection, treatment planning and treatment delivery and progress monitoring and evaluation. Also provided are parameter or criteria measurement techniques and generally acceptable thresholds, which can be updated through learning process and through acquisition of patient data. Once the treatment is planned, the virtual dentition model of the patient in the proposed treatment set-up or the target state is evaluated using several virtual model evaluation features and criteria.
US08152522B2	Tooth positioners, method of making the same, and method of positioning teeth using the same A method for forming a tooth positioner for repositioning at least one tooth of a patient includes providing a dental arch cast of a patient, separating at least one tooth from the dental arch cast, fixing a pin in a stump part of the at least one separated tooth, and in any non-separated teeth, reconstructing the dental arch cast of the patient by aligning the separated teeth to correspond to the alignment in the patient's mouth and holding the pins in a material that may be softened by heat, heating an area to soften an area, applying force to the pin fixed in the at least one tooth to be repositioned to move it in a desired direction to obtain a realigned arch, and forming a tooth positioner corresponding to the realigned arch. The tooth positioner is used by having the patient wear it for a period of time.
US08152520B2	Orthodontic bracket and use thereof A bracket for attaching an arch wire to a tooth includes a dental plate with a back and a front, wherein the back is intended to be attached to a tooth by an adhesive connection, and also an arch wire holder for fastening the arch wire to the bracket, wherein the arch wire holder is fitted at the front of the dental plate. The bracket farther includes an arm, a first end of which is attached, or can be attached, to the dental plate and a second end carries the arch wire holder. The arm extends along the front of the dental plate. The arm is made of bendable wire material, such that the position of the arch wire holder in respect of the dental plate can be adjusted by bending the arm. The invention further relates to the use of a bracket according to the invention.
US08152519B1	Orthodontic connector assembly and a method for treating teeth An orthodontic connector assembly 10 including a plurality of substantially identical connecting members, such as members 12, 14 which include a movable but biased portion 20 which is adapted to selectively and removably receive a pocket portion 44 which is deployed on at least one bracket, such as bracket 40. In an alternative embodiment, the members, such as member 12, 14 each include a ridge, such as ridge 212, which is selectively, removably, and frictionally placed within slot 236.
US08152518B2	Dental positioning appliance having metallic portion Embodiments are provided for utilizing metallic portions in dental positioning appliances. One embodiment includes a removable dental positioning appliance having a shell having one or more cavities shaped to receive and reposition one or more teeth from a first orientation to a successive orientation and where at least a portion of the shell is formed from a metallic mesh material.
US08152514B2	Oil/slurry burner with injection atomization An oil/slurry burner with injection atomization for the gasification of solids-containing liquid fuels under high pressures of e.g. 80 bar (8 MPa) and high temperatures of e.g. 1200 to 1900 degrees centigrade in reactors with liquid slag removal is proposed, wherein a plurality of feeding elements disposed outside the annular duct concentrically with respect to the burner axis are provided for introducing liquid fuel and atomizing agent, the individual feeding elements being implemented intrinsically straight in the burner, inclined to the burner axis in the direction of the burner mouth, and ending at the burner mouth adjacent to the oxidant outlet. By introducing the liquid fuel and atomizing agent in individual completely implemented tubes with a corresponding nozzle, different fuels can be supplied simultaneously via the individual feeds and converted in a flame reaction.
US08152512B2	Imprinting apparatus The present invention provides an imprinting apparatus in which stampers, after a transfer step, can be readily and quickly detached from a substrate and an atmosphere in the imprinting apparatus is kept clean. The imprinting device has an ejecting mechanism for separating a recording medium substrate from a first stamper and a second stamper the ejecting mechanism being formed including a sleeve and a coil spring that are movably provided in a movable die base with an exhausting duct, and also including a sleeve and a coil spring that are movably provided in a fixed die base with an exhausting duct.
US08152511B2	Composition to reduce adhesion between a conformable region and a mold An imprint lithography mold assembly includes a mold having a surface, a substrate having a surface, and a polymerizable composition disposed between the surface of the mold and the surface of the substrate. The polymerizable composition includes a bulk material and a non-ionic surfactant having a first end and a second end. The first end of the non-ionic surfactant has an affinity for the bulk material, and the second end of the non-ionic surfactant is fluorinated.
US08152507B2	Apparatus and method for manufacturing multiplex interlayer for safety glass Provided are an apparatus and a method for manufacturing a multilayered interlayer for safety glass that allows reliable and easy formation of inserted layers having a larger coloring layer. The manufacturing apparatus 1 for manufacturing the multilayered interlayer for safety glass having a first outermost layer, an inserted layer, and a second outermost layer laminated together, wherein an outlet for the inserted layer formation 14 is provided between outlets for of the first and the second outermost layers formation 9 and 10 on an outlet side of a guide for a layer disposition 4, the outlets for the first and the second outermost layers formation 9 and 10 and the outlet for the inserted layer formation 14 have a shape of a slit, the dimension L, in a slit shape in the width direction, of the outlet for the inserted layer formation 14 is set smaller as compared with the dimension K, in a slit shape in the width direction, of the outlets for the first and the second outermost layers formation 9 and 10, the thickness of the slit is set smaller with increasing proximity to the end on at least one end of the outlet for the inserted layer formation 14 having a shape of a slit, and a metal mold for extrusion 5 is connected in a subsequent stage of the guide for a layer disposition 4.
US08152504B2	Method of operation of a spherical positive displacement rotary machine and devices for carrying out said method A positive displacement rotary machine with a body having an internal spherical working surface divided into bypass and propulsion areas, a rotor with a working rotational surface, a ring working cavity formed by the working surfaces of the body and rotor, and a C-shaped separator mounted in part of the cavity at an angle to a plane of the rotor rotation. The cavity is partitioned by the separator at the bypass area, and the working medium openings are located from opposite sides of the separator. The working surface of the rotor has at least one slot. In each slot is mounted a piston capable of sealing the working cavity, and performing rotational oscillations in a slot plane. The piston is at least in the form of a part of a disk and has at least one through-cutout for the separator passage, and can seal the through-cutout at the propulsion area.
US08152492B2	Linear rod pump apparatus and method An apparatus and method for pumping fluids, such as water and/or hydrocarbons, from a subterranean formation or reservoir, include a linear rod pump having a mechanical rack and pinion drive arrangement, adapted for attachment to a pumping mechanism, such as the polished rod at the top of a rod string in a hydrocarbon well. The rack gear, of the rack and pinion drive arrangement, is adapted for connection to, and movement with, the polished rod. The pinion gear does not translate with the rack gear, and is driven by a reversible motor for affecting up and down reciprocating motion of the rack gear and pumping mechanism. Some forms of the invention include a compressible gas counter-balance arrangement. Some forms of the invention include an electronic drive configured for dealing with electric power generated by the motor during a portion of the pumping cycle.
US08152489B2	Motor-driven supercharger A motor-driven supercharger is provided with a stator assembly inserted and attached to a bearing housing, and a seal plate closely attached to a compressor side of the stator assembly and comparting between a compressor housing and a motor stator (24). The stator assembly has the motor stator and an outer sleeve having an inner peripheral surface closely attached to an outer peripheral surface of the motor stator and supporting the motor stator in such a manner as to constrain a rotation of the motor stator, wherein the motor stator and the outer sleeve form an integral part so as to construct the stator assembly, and the outer sleeve constructs a liquid tight water cooling jacket between the outer sleeve and the bearing housing. The outer sleeve and the seal plate are fastened together in an axial direction between the bearing housing and the compressor housing.
US08152486B2	Fluid delivery device identification and loading system A medical pump includes a chassis having a fixed seat, and a main carriage having a carriage footing for receiving a fluid delivery device and restricting its movement. An actuator automatically moves the main carriage between open and closed positions to engage the fluid delivery device to the seat. The seat establishes the position of both the main carriage and fluid delivery device in the closed position. The actuator is connected to the main carriage by a rear carriage assembly having a manual release element for disengaging the actuator from rear carriage assembly and thereby from the main carriage. A processing unit detects jam conditions by processing carriage position data and electrical load data from the actuator.
US08152471B2	Apparatus and method for retaining bladed rotor disks of a jet engine An apparatus (3) retains bladed rotor disks (4, 6, 9) of a jet engine which engine includes an axial-flow compressor with several bladed rotor disks (4, 6, 9), at least one turbine section, at least one shaft and at least one tie-rod (12, 47), with at least two bladed rotor disks at the compressor inlet side (2) being designed as blisks (6), each being a single component integrally combining a rotor disk and circumferentially distributed rotor blades (5). So that apparatus for the retention of blisks can easily be mounted and demounted, the blisks (6) are releasably retained via the tie-rod (12, 47) and the other rotor disks (4, 9) are firmly attached to each other separately and independently of the tie-rod (12, 47).
US08152469B2	Annular turbine ring rotor A fan-turbine rotor assembly (24) includes one or more turbine ring rotors (32). Each turbine ring rotor is cast as a single integral annular ring. By forming the turbine as one or more rings, leakage between adjacent blade platforms is minimized which increases engine efficiency. Assembly of the turbine ring rotors to the diffuser ring (114) includes axial installation and radial locking of each turbine ring rotor.
US08152467B2	Blade with tangential jet generation on the profile A blade of a fluid-flow machine has at least one cavity 2 arranged in the blade 1, with the cavity 2 connecting to a fluid supply, and at least one outlet opening 3 connecting the cavity 2 to a flow path, in which the blade 1 is arranged. The outlet opening 3 is of a nozzle-type design and essentially inclined in a direction of a main flow extending longitudinally to a corresponding surface of the blade 1. The outlet opening 3 extends over at least a part of the blade 1 height and the outlet opening 3 forms a step in a contour of the blade 1 profile, with a fluid jet issuing from the outlet opening 3 essentially tangentially attaching onto the blade surface.
US08152455B2	Suspension arrangement for the casing shroud segments A suspension arrangement for the casing shroud segments of the high-pressure turbine of a jet engine with inclination or graduation of the rotor blade tips (4) includes spaced apart attaching hooks (11) formed onto the casing shroud segments (2) which engage an axial retaining groove (13) on the turbine casing (1) on the upstream side and which are axially retained in the downstream direction by a retaining ring (14) arranged in a retaining ring groove (15) formed onto the turbine casing. In the retaining ring groove (15), assembly pockets (19) are provided on the downstream side, with the assembly pockets (19) agreeing with the distance and dimensioning of the attaching hooks (11), so that—with the rotor installed—axial travel (s2) of the casing shroud segments (2) is reduced and handling clearance is increased, when the casing shroud segments (2) are installed.
US08152454B2	Stator vane for a gas turbine engine A guide vane for a gas turbine includes a vane body having a leading edge and a trailing edge and a shroud extending at least between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The shroud has a first side wall and a second side wall extending essentially radially and in a longitudinal direction of the gas turbine. The first side wall has a groove disposed in a region of the trailing edge extending in a longitudinal direction of the shroud and is configured to receive a sealing plate. The first side wall also has a clearance extending from the groove in a region of the trailing edge, wherein a depth of the clearance in a circumferential direction of the gas turbine is equal to a depth of the groove, and wherein a width of the clearance in the longitudinal direction of the shroud is between one to three times the depth of the clearance.
US08152453B2	Ceiling fan with angled mounting A fan system comprises a fan, a bracket configured to mount to a ceiling structure, and a mounting assembly coupling the fan with the bracket. The mounting assembly comprises a fan mounting assembly secured to the fan; and a bracket mounting assembly secured to the bracket. The mounting assembly includes an elongate member extending between the fan mounting assembly and the bracket mounting assembly. The fan mounting assembly is configured to permit adjustment of the orientation of the fan axis about two axes that are perpendicular to the fan axis. The bracket mounting assembly is configured to permit adjustment of the orientation of the elongate member axis about two axes that are perpendicular to the elongate member axis. The bracket mounting assembly permits self-adjustment of the mounting assembly, to re-position the center of gravity of the fan system underneath the bracket after the fan axis orientation has been adjusted.
US08152452B2	Computer room environmental conditioning unit with translatable blowers A conditioning unit can allow the blower to be easily translated from a first operable position in the conditioning unit to a second operable position external to the conditioning unit. The translation of the blower does not require the disconnection of the blower and, accordingly, does not require that the blower be disconnected and reconnected to the control system. Such capability can facilitate the installation of the conditioning unit into a variety of applications and allows the purchaser to customize the blower location based on the desired performance. The ability to customize the installation of the conditioning unit without requiring disconnection and reconnection of the blower can reduce the cost and expense associated with the installation into differing applications.
US08152449B2	Vacuum generator seal A vacuum generator seal can comprise an upstream annular cavity adjacent to the upstream side of the bearing, a downstream annular cavity adjacent to the downstream side of the bearing, and at least one drain slot positioned on the upstream side of the bearing housing. The vacuum generator seal can include a retainer that at least partially defines the upstream annular cavity. The retainer may be in contact with the bearing housing and may have a tight clearance with the impeller hub. The retainer along with a supply of grease packed within the annular cavities can seal the bearing; and the drain slot can direct water and waste away from the bearing and towards the scroll.
US08152447B2	Intermediate casing for an aircraft jet engine, of improved design The invention relates to an intermediate casing (21) for an aircraft jet engine, comprising an outer shell (23) and also front and rear flanges (25, 27) which are arranged radially inside with respect to the outer shell, the casing (21) also comprising structural arms (17) which extend radially between the flanges as far as the shell (23), the rear flange being equipped with receiving means (34) for receiving a fixing bracket for fixing a rod for absorbing the thrust forces, and the first receiving means comprising bosses (36) coming from the rear flange, through which bosses through-orifices (38) are formed which are passed through by fixing screws of the bracket. According to the invention, at least one of the bosses (36) extends as far as making contact with one of the structural arms (17).
US08152445B2	Fluid flow machine with fluid injector assembly A fluid flow machine has a flow duct confined by a wall of a casing, with a fluid supply chamber being arranged in an area of the wall, which is in flow connection with an injector insert. The injector insert is provided with an injector nozzle for supplying fluid from the fluid supply chamber into the flow duct. The injector insert is closely connected to the wall of the fluid supply chamber.
US08152444B2	Fluid injector nozzle for a main flow path of a fluid flow machine A fluid flow machine includes an annulus duct formed between a casing and a rotor drum, which is rotatable about a machine axis. At least one row of rotor blades is arranged in the annulus duct, with the latter forming a main flow path and with at least one fluid injector nozzle being arranged in the area of a wall of the casing and/or of the rotor drum. At least part of the injector nozzle protrudes into the main flow path and is provided for the generation of a jet which is tangentially directed to the wall of the main flow path.
US08152440B2	Resistive contact sensors for large blade and airfoil pressure and flow separation measurements A wind turbine blade instrumentation structure and method is provided for fluid dynamic polymer-based contact sensors measuring ambient pressure based on the resistivity changes across the sensor. The pressure sensors may applied in predetermined patterns to airfoil structures, such as wind turbine blades, without impacting the blade structure and fluid dynamic characteristics. The pressure sensors measure blade performance with high fidelity. The pressure measurements are transmitted to processing to determine blade characteristics and environment including flow separation, stagnation point, angle of attack, lift and drag and wind speed. Further processing of the pressure distribution may identify wind shear, up-flow and yaw error.
US08152438B2	Installing a shaft in a bearing comprising a self-releasing nut A gas turbine engine including a shaft, a bearing, a coupling supported by the bearing is disclosed. The shaft is engaged by an end trunnion inside the coupling and fixed to the coupling by a cylindrical nut. The engine is characterized in that the nut is in axial abutment in a first direction against the coupling and the trunnion is screwed onto the nut. A slotted stop ring housed in an annular groove of the nut forms an axial abutment in the direction opposing the first direction, so as to allow the removal of the trunnion from the coupling by unscrewing the nut.
US08152431B2	Stocking system The present invention relates generally to a stocking system and its operating method. The stocking system comprises a shelf assembly, a first crane, and a second crane. The shelf assembly stores a plurality of cassettes. The first crane is installed at one side of the shelf assembly and loads/unloads the cassettes to/from the shelf assembly. The second crane is installed at the other side of the shelf assembly and loads/unloads the cassettes to/from the shelf assembly.
US08152429B2	Hay bale collection and stacking system The present invention relates to an improved system for collecting and stacking round hay bales on a flat bed trailer, particularly for use in agricultural applications such as farming or the like.
US08152428B2	Fastener assembly A fastener assembly includes a bolt having first and second ends and comprising a bolt head at the first end and a shank, at least a part of which is screw threaded, a nut for screw threaded engagement with the shank of the bolt, and a template alignment pin, wherein the bolt head is provided with a coupling formation for detachably coupling to a corresponding formation on the template alignment pin.
US08152427B2	Threaded fastener shaft having a deformable threaded portion A fastening mechanism including a shaft, wherein the shaft is effectively threaded; the shaft includes a threaded non-deformable material interspersed with at least one portion of a threaded deformable material.
US08152425B2	Apparatus for securing heavy columnar construction members, including oilfield tubulars, to a transporting conveyance and method of using the same A pair of pipe bunks are utilized on in combination with a flatbed truck, deck of a work boat, or other conveyance means for securing loads of long, heavy, structural members during transportation. The pipe bunks have particular utility for oilfield tubulars. Each pipe bunk comprises a horizontal base member which is attached cross-wise to the flatbed of the truck, or deck of the workboat. A horizontal beam is attached to the horizontal base member and a vertical member is affixed to each opposing outside end of the horizontal beam. Adjustable slide members are slidingly attached to the horizontal base member, where each adjustable slide member has a vertical member which is disposed in offset facing relation with a respective outside vertical member. The slide members are attached to the horizontal base member with guide members. The slide members are adjustable with respect to the distance of each from the respective outside vertical member to accommodate the width of the desired load. The slide members are locked into position to secure the relative position of the slide members with the respective outside vertical members.
US08152423B2	3-dimensional variable-axis machine A 3-dimensional (3D) variable-axis machine is disclosed, which includes a frame spaced from a base to be disposed at an upper surface of a workpiece, a pair of forward and backward pivoting frames having an arch shape connected to the frame, a pair of leftward and rightward pivoting frames having an arch shape and a relatively less height than the forward and backward pivoting frames to be connected across the forward and backward pivoting frames, and a spindle vertically inserted in an intersectional portion between the forward and backward and the leftward and rightward pivoting frames to be pivoted corresponding to movements of the both pivoting frames. The spindle is connected to a sliding member, and the sliding member is connected to a lower surface of the forward and backward pivoting frames and an upper surface of the leftward and rightward pivoting frames in a sliding manner.
US08152421B2	Apparatus and method for drilling a work An apparatus for drilling a workpiece has a shaft portion including a holder to hold a drilling tool rotating around a first axis. A reduction gear is connected to the shaft portion. A cylindrical member, including an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder, rotatably contains the shaft portion at an eccentric position. The cylindrical member is connected to the output shaft of the reduction gear and rotated around a second axis parallel to the first axis. A slide containing cylinder contains the shaft portion, the reduction gear and the cylindrical member. The slide containing cylinder has a sliding structure for axially moving the shaft portion, the reduction gear and the cylindrical member. A drilling tool is simultaneously rotated around the first axis, revolved around the second axis and is axially moved.
US08152417B2	Stabilized soil structure and facing elements for its construction The facing element for a stabilized soil structure comprises a body of cast material inside which a path is formed for a reinforcement strip between two points of emergence situated on a rear face of the element. This path includes two rectilinear portions which are respectively adjacent to the two points of emergence and are each arranged so as to position the strip in the same plane of emergence perpendicular to the rear face, two curved portions which respectively continue the two rectilinear portions and are arranged so as to deviate the strip from the plane of emergence, and a connection portion which joins the two curved portions to one another and has at least one loop situated outside the plane of emergence.
US08152411B2	Guide arrangement Guide arrangement for marine risers, in particular for offshore oil and gas operations. The guide arrangement has at least one guide structure (21, 22) for a length of riser, a frame assembly (10, 10A-D) for supporting said guide structure, anchor means (11, 12) at the seabed, tether means (13, 14) connecting said frame assembly to said anchor means, and a buoyancy element (1) for keeping said guide structure (21, 22) at a desired level in the sea during operation. The guide structure (21, 22) is pivotably supported by said frame assembly (10, 10A-D) with a pivot axis (21P, 22P) being substantially horizontal.
US08152407B1	Auxiliary pressure relief reservoir for crash barrier A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an overpressure relief sub-system. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the overpressure relief sub-system includes an external pressure relief valve that is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value.
US08152406B1	Crash barrier with over-pressure relief system A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an external pressure relief valve. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the external pressure relief valve is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value.
US08152405B2	System for fixing two components to each other This system, comprising a fastener (1) which is V-shaped and which comprises an intermediate portion (2) which is in the form of a clamp having two arms (3, 4), for receiving a projecting portion (12a, 12b) of the first component (12) and from which wings (6, 7) extend and are provided with engagement means for passing an over-center position on an edge of the second component (13) and in the region of the junction zone of each wing and the corresponding arm, at least one harpoon-like cut-out (8, 9) extending in continuation of the wing in the direction of the intermediate portion, is characterized in that the engagement means of the wings (6, 7) comprise means for resilient snap-fitting thereof on the edge of the second component (13), allowing the projecting portion (12a, 12b) of the first component (12) to be engaged, to a greater or lesser depth, in the intermediate clamp-like portion (2) of the fastener (1) during assembly thereof, in order to adjust the two components relative to each other.
US08152398B2	One-hand lipstick container The present invention relates to a one-hand lipstick container, which includes: a container main body having a cylinder stood at the center of a body and a center through-hole formed through the center of the cylinder; a container cover that is rotatably connected to the upper portion of the container main body and has an open inlet formed through the upper surface; a cover holder that is combined by a spiral with the outer side of the cylinder of the container main body in the container cover and vertically ascends/descends by rotational force of the container cover; a door that is hinged to the cover holder to open/close the upper portion of the cover holder, opens a passage when the cover holder descends, and closes the passage when the cover holder ascends; a lipstick housing that is combined by a spiral with the inner side of the center through-hole of the container main body in the cover holder, vertically ascends/descends by rotational force of the cover holder, and ascends/descends in the opposite directions to the ascent/descent directions of the cover holder; and an anti-rotation means that transmits the rotational force of the cover holder to the lipstick housing and vertically guides the lipstick housing to ascend/descend in the opposite directions to the ascent/descent directions of the cover holder.
US08152397B2	Product replacement unit for a base stick module in particular of a cosmetic stick as well as a set comprising a product replacement unit of this type and a plurality of base stick modules A product replacement unit for a base stick module in particular of a cosmetic stick comprises a replacement housing with a reservoir in which a product, in particular a cosmetic product, is present in creamy, liquid or pasty form. An applicator is in a fluid connection with the reservoir, and a piston is guided for displacement in the replacement housing for feeding the product to the applicator. A piston connecting component is present on the piston for cooperating with a push rod connecting component of a piston push rod forming part of a feed device of the base stick module for extending the piston, wherein the piston push rod is formed to establish a push connection with the piston and is formed to be positioned on the side of the piston remote from the product.
US08152394B2	Printer with a cutter having a pushing portion for moving the fixed blade away from the movable blade In order to reliably and promptly release bite of a fixed blade and a movable blade with a simple manipulation without being influenced by a state of paper jam of a recording sheet, provided is a printer capable of performing printing on a recording sheet and then cutting the same, including: a fixed blade (11); a movable blade (30); a movable blade drive system (31) including a rack (40) attached to the movable blade, and a rack gear (42) which gears with the rack, rotates in accordance with rotation of a drive gear (41) coupled to a forward/reverse rotatable motor, and linearly moves the rack; a manipulatable lever portion (32); a cooperative mechanism (13) including a pushing portion (12) for moving the fixed blade in a direction of moving away from the movable blade in conjunction with manipulation of the lever portion, and for releasing a contacting pressure of both the blades; a first unit mainly incorporating the fixed blade and the cooperative mechanism; and a second unit (4) mainly incorporating the movable blade and the movable blade drive system, in which one of both the units is separable from another unit, and combination is released.
US08152393B2	Printer device with blade driving motor and platen motor provided on a first frame A printer device is disclosed that has a cutter function and a thermal head, and is low profile but is suitable for thick paper. The printer device includes a first module and a second module. The first module includes a turning blade driving motor, a platen roller driving motor, a platen roller driven to rotate by the platen roller driving motor, and a fixed blade provided on a first frame. The second module includes a printing head and a turning blade provided on a second frame. When the first module and the second module are connected together, the printing head faces the platen roller, the turning blade faces the fixed blade, and rotation of the turning blade driving motor is transmitted to the turning blade.
US08152392B2	Label producing apparatus A tag label device includes a cartridge, a cartridge holder portion, and an antenna. The cartridge has a first roll around which a cover tape is wound and is detachably mounted in the cartridge holder portion. The cover tape has a plurality of RFID circuit elements To for transmitting and receiving information disposed thereon. Each of the RFID circuit elements To has an IC circuit part for storing information and an antenna connected to said IC circuit part. The antenna is disposed in the vicinity in a surface intersecting a tape surface of a path of the cover tape fed out from the first roll and transmits created RFID tag communicating information to the antenna by wireless communication and writes it to said IC circuit part. With this arrangement, the tag label device can arrange a tag medium as the cartridge without restricting the mounting/dismounting property of the cartridge and the layout of the cartridge holder portion.
US08152388B2	Power transmission mechanism having cam-incorporated gear, and power transmission mechanism of imaging apparatus A power transmission mechanism includes a cam-incorporated gear which rotates in one rotational direction by a driving force transmitted from a drive source via a planet gear when engaged with the planet gear, wherein the cam-incorporated gear stops rotating when disengaged from the planet gear; a driven member which includes a follower which contacts at least one surface cam formed on the cam-incorporated gear, the driven member being driven in accordance with the rotation of the cam-incorporated gear in the one rotational direction, and exerting a surplus torque on the cam-incorporated gear in the one rotational direction thereof so as to increase the rotation of the cam-incorporated gear in the one rotational direction, the surplus torque being independent of a torque exerted on the cam-incorporated gear by the drive source; and a damping mechanism which continuously exerts a load torque on the cam-incorporated gear in a rotational direction opposite to the one rotational direction of the cam-incorporated gear so as to cancel out the surplus torque.
US08152387B2	Index-matching gel for nanostructure optical fibers and mechanical splice assemble and connector using same A polymer based index-matching gel for use with nanostructure optical fibers is disclosed. The index-matching gel has a viscosity η at 25° C. of 3 Pa-s≦η≦100 Pa-s, which prevents the index-matching gel from wicking into the voids and down the nanostructure optical fiber to a depth where the fiber performance and/or device performance is compromised. The gel is suitable for use when mechanically splicing optical fibers when at least one of the optical fibers is a nanostructure optical fiber. The gel is also suitable for use in fiber optic connectors wherein at least one of the optical fibers constituting the connection is a nanostructure optical fiber.
US08152386B2	Fiber optic adapter and connector assemblies A fiber optic assembly comprising an adapter assembly defining an internal cavity, a first end for a receiving a first fiber optic connector, and a second end for receiving a second fiber optic connector, wherein the first and the second fiber optic connectors are dissimilar. A fiber optic connection comprising a first fiber optic connector comprising a connector housing, a first multi-fiber ferrule, and a clearance about an end face of the first multi-fiber ferrule for clearing a ferrule surround during connector mating, and a second connector that is a FOCIS 5 compliant MTP connector.
US08152378B2	Automatic-positioning linear guide An automatic-positioning linear guide has a driven body combined with guiding rails at two sides of a stationary base via a plurality of rollers. Each of the rollers is composed of two bearings combined by an axial shaft and can be assembled with the corresponding guiding rail without an assembly error therebetween.
US08152373B2	X-ray device and X-ray sensitive camera for panoramic tomography and 3D shots The invention relates to an X-ray device comprising an x-ray sensitive camera for creating tomograms, especially panoramic tomograms. Means for creating 3D shots of a partial volume of the mandibular arch are also provided, said 3D shots being created especially by a second image receiver for creating a 2D shot and means for taking a plurality of 2D shots from different directions and creating a 3D sot therefrom, preferably according to conebeam technology with the associated reconstruction algorithms. The x-ray sensitive camera comprises a first x-ray sensitive image receiver for creating a tomogram, and a second x-ray sensitive image receiver for creating plane shots.
US08152371B2	Temperature sensor circuit with reference voltage that exhibits the same nonlinear temperature response as the temperature sensor In a temperature sensor circuit, a temperature sensor is configured to output a first voltage corresponding to temperature. A voltage source is configured to output a second voltage having the same nonlinear dependence on the temperature as a nonlinear dependence of the first voltage on the temperature. An amplifier is configured to amplify the second voltage with a first amplification factor to output a third voltage. An inversion amplifier is configured to perform inversion amplification on a difference between the first voltage and the third voltage with a second amplification factor to output a fourth voltage.
US08152369B2	Method and apparatus for determining temperature in a gas feedstream An internal combustion engine includes an exhaust gas feedstream flowing past a gas sensing device disposed therein. The gas sensor includes an integrated electrical heating element which provides a resistance indicative of its temperature. An unknown input observer is used to determine the exhaust gas feedstream temperature based on the heating element temperature.
US08152368B2	Cover for temperature sensor A cover for the bulb of a thermal expansion valve is comprised of two halves of an insulative body that are wrapped around the bulb and associated outlet types in clamshell fashion to encapsulate the combination. Internal and external flaps are hingedly connected along their longitudinal edges to permit access for inspection purposes, and the external flap is secured to the internal flap by Velcro. A tongue structure on the outer surface of the body fits into grooves on the inner surface of the outer flap to seal the cover against the entry of moisture. The two halves are secured in place at their ends by way of bands.
US08152359B2	Rotary tar slurrifier A method for reducing tar fuel viscosity by steam heating, during slurrification in a rotary slurrifier, is described for creating slurries of many small tar particles suspended in a continuous water phase. This heating is done at pressure to avoid evaporation of the water. The tar in water slurry is evaporatively cooled by subsequent depressurization.
US08152358B2	System and apparatus to deliver low-inclusion feed ingredients into livestock ration A system for delivering microingredient feed additives into a feed ration includes a storage hopper with a mixer element attached to an agitator shaft that is configured to agitate a high-moisture feed ingredient in the hopper when the agitator shaft is rotated. A micromachine includes storage containers for storing low-inclusion ingredients, and meters and dispenses precise amounts of selected low-inclusion ingredients without using a fluid carrier. A mixing conveyor receives and mixes the high-moisture feed ingredient and the selected low-inclusion ingredients. The mixing conveyor includes a discharge screw with a rotatable shaft and flighting attached to the shaft, wherein a portion of the flighting positioned below the storage hopper pull the high-moisture feed ingredient from the storage hopper and convey it to a mixing section that receives the selected low-inclusion ingredients dispensed from the micromachine without using a fluid carrier and mixes the low-inclusion ingredients with the feed ingredient.
US08152356B2	Spray blended emulsifier A spray blended emulsifier comprises: a blending kettle, a feeding tank, a sprayer, a residuum pump, a thermal resistance probe, a tee valve and discharge tube; the charge pipe underneath said feeding tank is mounted on the upper cover of the blending kettle, and extended into the blending kettle. The sprayer contains a spraying channel and a guide plate; the spraying channel contains a nozzle inlet, a turbulent path, a blending chamber and a nozzle outlet connected in series; the nozzle inlet is of a funnel pattern. The spray blended emulsifier is structurally characterized by that, spraying channel and guide plate are mounted into the sprayer, a turbulent path is placed in the spraying channel, and the liquid flow has a Reynolds number larger than 3000.
US08152352B2	Optic system for light guide with controlled output A light guide with optics accurately controls the light exiting the guide. The device achieves accurate control of the reflected light by extracting light from a limited area of the light guide. The configuration of the reflectors used for the selective extraction determines the nature of the output light. The reflectors are preferably located on a side of the light guide opposite to an output side of the light guide.
US08152347B2	Light emitting diode linear light for machine vision The invention herein comprises a linear lighting system which incorporates light emitting diode (LED) light sources with one or more distinct colors including broad band white light. The LED die or die arrays are mounted to a high thermal conductivity circuit board comprising COB technology which can include both the LED die and electronic drive components resulting in a more compact and reliable design with improved thermal and optical performance at lower cost. In conjunction with high efficiency imaging collection optics and aberration corrected cylindrical optics, the output of the LED sources are imaged to a bright line suitable for use in machine vision applications and the like.
US08152342B2	Light fixture assembly and method A lamp cover assembly for a recessed light fixture assembly is provided. The light fixture has a socket for receiving an electrical light bulb and a canister housing for housing the bulb of the light fixture assembly. The canister housing has an opening for allowing the passage of light through the opening. The lamp cover assembly includes a lens body that is substantially translucent to allow the passage of light through the body and is configured to cover the opening so that the light bulb of the light fixture assembly is generally concealed from view through the opening. A light fixture engagement portion for engagement with the light fixture assembly is provided with the lamp cover assembly so that the lamp cover may be selectively engaged and disengaged from the light fixture assembly. The body of the lamp cover assembly has an outer perimeter that is sized so that the perimeter is spaced radially inward a distance from the edges of the opening of the light fixture assembly when the cover assembly is engaged with the light fixture assembly.
US08152339B2	Illumination device An illumination device having an optical waveguide stage to which is optically coupled a light-projecting stage. The illumination device accepts light from a small isotropic light source such as a light emitting diode or a bulb coupled to the optical waveguide stage. The illumination device spreads the light over a wide area while also collimating it to form a beam. The light-projecting stage and the optical waveguide stage are made of thin slabs of optically transmissive material.
US08152338B2	LED lamp unit A light emitting diode (LED) lamp unit is disclosed for obtain a thin profile display device, to improve uniformity of light, and to simplify a power connection line for operation, which includes an optical lens having a central recess part and an edge, wherein the central recess part is hollowed out inwardly, and the edge is formed in shape of a flat surface or in shape of a convex lens; at least one or more LED chips arranged at fixed intervals in a lower portion of the optical lens; and a lower reflecting sheet positioned on a bottom surface of the LED chip.
US08152336B2	Removable LED light module for use in a light fixture assembly A removable LED light module for use in a light fixture assembly includes an LED lighting element and one or more resilient members to maintain a compression force between the LED light module and the light fixture to provide effective heat transfer from the LED light module to the light fixture. The LED light module can include a plurality of electrical contact members to facilitate an electrical connection between the LED light module and the light fixture assembly.
US08152335B2	Substrate for disposition of light-emitting diodes A substrate of the present invention is provided with a plurality of parallel-arranged functional sections. First and second connecting sections are provided on both ends of the functional sections. Every two adjacent functional sections are separable from one another and are respectively connected with different connecting sections so that the substrate can be separated into two daughter substrates having identical areas. The two daughter substrates of the substrate can be processed simultaneously before separated from each other, thus saving the processing time. When used by a user, one daughter substrate can be used independently as a light source or the two daughter substrates can be used opposite to each other so that the functional sections of the two daughter substrates are staggered.
US08152332B2	LED cyclorama light A cyclorama light includes a generally enclosed housing forming an interior compartment having a normally horizontal housing axis and an open front defining a window generally arranged within a plane parallel to said axis. A reflector substantially covers the window and has an operative portion that has a substantially uniform cross-section along the housing axis. An LED light emitter array extends along a line substantially parallel to the housing axis, the reflector having a surface configuration and the LED array being arranged in relation to the reflector surface to provide a higher flux density directed toward a far end of a wall or surface to be illuminated and provide a lower flux density directed toward a direction of the near end of the surface to be illuminated, generating a transition flux density between the far and near ends of the surface to be illuminated. The LED array and/or the reflector have optical features for eliminating shadows in the projected light over the entire illuminated surface.
US08152326B2	Container having a light source A container constructed from a blank of foldable sheet material is provided. The container includes a shell having at least one side wall, a bottom wall, and at least one opening defined through the at least one side wall. The at least one side wall having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The container also includes a liner having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The liner includes at least one light source coupled to the exterior surface of the liner. The liner is coupled to the shell. At least a portion of the exterior surface of the liner is adjacent to the interior surface of the shell, and the at least one light source is aligned with the at least one opening for emitting light therethrough.
US08152322B1	Heat dissipating helmet and light A heat dissipating helmet provides a heat dissipating material portion. One or more high powered LEDs may be in thermal contact therewith providing a significant portion of a heat sink to remove heat from the LEDs to maintain them at a proper operating temperature during operation. The heat dissipating material may be also in contact with air flow as the helmet moves through space thereby allowing convection to assist in removing heat from the helmet. Furthermore, heat moving elements located internal to the helmet may assist in transferring heat to the heat dissipating material from the scalp of a wearer.
US08152313B2	Projection display device that displaces an optical position of an imager in conjunction with a focus adjustment A projection display device has an imager that modulates light from a light source in accordance with an image signal, a projection optical system that enlarges and projects the light modulated by the imager onto a projection plane, a focus adjustment part disposed in the projection optical system, and a displacement part that displaces the imager in a direction vertical to a light axis of the projection optical system, in conjunction with the focus adjustment part.
US08152312B2	Apparatus and method that present projection image An apparatus that presents a projection image has a screen and plural projectors, each of which projects a section of the projection image onto the screen. The apparatus has a projected-section-determining unit that determines as a projected section the section of the projection image, based on an input image signal, corresponding to a part of the screen onto which each of the projectors projects the section of the projection image. The apparatus has an image-signal-generating unit that generates an image signal corresponding to the section of the projection image which each of the projector projects onto the part of the screen, based on the input image signal and the projected section determined by the projected-section-determining unit, and a projectors-controlling unit that controls the projectors to adjust centers and/or ranges of the projections by the projectors based on the projected section determined by the projected-section-determining unit.
US08152308B2	Mobile terminal having projector and method of controlling display unit in the mobile terminal A mobile terminal having a projector and a method for controlling a display unit in of the mobile terminal are provided. The method includes outputting, if a presentation application is selected, a screen image for performing the selected presentation application through the display unit and the projector, turning off power supplied to an entire area of the display unit, and performing, if a touch is detected through the touch screen, a function according to the detected touch in the selected presentation application.
US08152304B2	Stereographic imaging system using open loop magnetomechanically resonant polarizing filter actuator An apparatus and method for stereoscopic 3D image projection and viewing using a single projection source, alternating polarization, and passive eyewear. This approach is applicable to frame sequential video created using existing 3D graphics APIs, as well as other video signal formats, and is compatible with existing digital light processor (DLP) technology for both front and rear projection systems. An alternating polarizer in the form of a magnetomechanically resonant polarizing filter actuator is used to modulate the projected image. A preferred embodiment enables an existing DLP projection system to be enhanced with 3D capability.
US08152299B2	Fundus camera A fundus camera includes an illumination optical system, an observation photographic optical system, a photographic diaphragm unit located in a position conjugate with the subject's eye in the observation photographic optical system, and an imaging unit disposed in the observation photographic optical system. The photographic diaphragm unit includes a first photographic diaphragm fixed during capturing of a still image and a second photographic diaphragm movable during capturing of a moving image. The fundus camera further includes a diaphragm driving unit configured to move the second photographic diaphragm on a plane orthogonal to an optical axis, an image recording unit configured to capture, with the first photographic diaphragm, a still image based on an output of the imaging unit and, with the second photographic diaphragm, a moving image based on an output of the imaging unit, and a display unit configured to display an image captured by the imaging unit.
US08152295B2	Recording apparatus A recording apparatus includes a holding tray, a transport driving roller that applies a transport force to the other surface of the holding tray, and an ejection driving roller located downstream of the recording unit such that the ejection driving roller is placed on the same side as the transport driving roller. The other surface of the holding tray has an irregular pattern including a protrusion or a flat portion and a recess, the protrusion coming into contact with the outer surface of the transport driving roller, the recess being located so as to face the ejection driving roller.
US08152290B2	Customization of curable ink prints by molding A system has a print head to dispense ink onto a print surface to form a printed image, a molding surface to contact the ink to form an informational image in at least the surface of the ink, and a radiation source to solidify the ink into the printed and informational images. A method includes dispensing ink onto a print medium to form a printed image, pressing a molding surface onto the printed image to transfer an informational image onto the printed image, and solidify the ink into the printed and informational images.
US08152287B2	Ink cartridge assemblies An ink cartridge assembly includes an ink cartridge including a body defining an ink chamber therein, and a sealing member. The body has an opening formed therethrough, and an interior of the ink chamber is configured to be in fluid communication with an exterior of the ink chamber via the opening. The sealing member is configured to close the opening. The ink cartridge assembly also includes a cover member including a first portion configured to engage the body, and a second portion. The cover member is configured to cover the opening when the first portion engages the body. When the second portion moves the second portion is configured to apply a force to the sealing member to move the sealing member away from the opening to facilitate fluid communication between the interior and the exterior of the ink chamber, and to disengage the first portion from the body.
US08152285B2	Ink jet head and ink supplying method thereof An Inkjet head according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an ink storage unit including an inner storage space, a head unit connected to the ink storage unit, and a plurality of nozzles discharging the ink, wherein the floors of the inner storage space of the ink storage unit form a step. Accordingly, in the Inkjet head of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the floors of the inner storage space of the ink storage unit form a step, and the ceiling of the inner flow space of the head unit is inclined, thereby preventing the ink vapor from being confined inside the head unit. Therefore, the ink to be discharged through the nozzle flows in a predetermined direction and does not include ink vapor, thereby preventing discharge deterioration.
US08152280B2	Method of making an inkjet printhead A hardwearing inkjet printhead comprises a substrate 10 having an ink ejection circuit 12 and a patterned glass frit planarization layer 22 on its surface. A ceramic body 28 has a substantially flat surface 28B intimately bonded to the planarization layer. The ceramic body and planarization layer together define at least one ink ejection chamber 18 and associated ink ejection nozzle 38 with the nozzle and at least the major part of the height of the chamber formed in the ceramic body.
US08152277B2	Ink jet printing head and ink jet printing apparatus using the same The printing head has connection terminals for performing an electrical connection of signals including drive signals of print elements by contacting connection terminals in on an apparatus side when the head is mounted onto an ink jet printing apparatus. Connections of all terminals can be guaranteed by detecting contacts of a part of terminals. Among the terminals in the head, terminals whose distances from the connection terminals in the printing apparatus become maximum when a deviation occurred in the mounting are used as terminals for contact detection. For example, from among the connection terminals arranged in a planar area, which is rectangular-shaped, terminals positioned in corners are used as the terminals for the contact detection. When the contacts of these terminals are detected, the connections of all the terminals inside the area can be guaranteed.
US08152275B2	Liquid droplet jetting apparatus and recording apparatus A liquid droplet jetting apparatus includes a common liquid chamber to which the liquid is supplied, a plurality of pressure chambers which communicate with the common liquid chamber and which cause a pressure change in the liquid, a plurality of nozzles which jet the droplets of the liquid, a pressure attenuation chamber which has a throttled portion having a cross-sectional area smaller than that of the common liquid chamber, and an attenuation portion having a cross-sectional area greater than that of the throttled portion, the attenuation portion being connected to one end portion of the common liquid chamber via the throttled portion, a discharge port formed in the pressure attenuation chamber, a discharge channel connected to the discharge port, and having a throttle in which a channel area of the discharge channel is decreased, and a dummy nozzle connected to the discharge port via the discharge channel.
US08152273B2	Waste ink absorbent member, and waste ink container and ink jet recording apparatus equipped with waste ink absorbent member To provide a waste ink absorbing tank, capable, even in the case of utilizing an ink of a high coagulating property, of causing a waste ink absorbent member to efficiently absorb such ink. A waste ink absorbent member has a hole portion corresponding to an introducing position of the waste ink, and the hole portion is opened on a lateral face of the absorbent member. The waste ink, introduced into the hole portion moves in one direction toward the waste ink absorbent member and absorbed therein.
US08152271B2	Liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head disposed on a transport path of a target to eject a liquid from nozzles at a nozzle forming surface, a target transport unit transporting the target such that the target passes through a position opposite the nozzle forming surface on the transport path, and a liquid receptor transport unit transporting a liquid receptor for receiving the liquid ejected from the nozzles as a waste liquid such that the liquid receptor passes through the position opposite the nozzle forming surface on the transport path. With rotation of the target transport unit, a mechanism unit including a target transport member for transporting the target in a transport direction is able to be attached and detached at a position out of a mechanism portion of the liquid receptor transport unit with respect to the liquid ejecting apparatus.
US08152270B2	Inkjet recording apparatus An inkjet recording apparatus includes a carriage on which first and second heads are mounted, a first cap configured to cap the first head, and a second cap configured to cap the second head. A distance from the first cap to the first head is shorter than a distance from the second cap to the second head. The carriage stops at a first capping position where capping is performed only with the first cap and a second capping position where capping is performed with both the first cap and the second cap.
US08152265B2	Inkjet recording apparatus and method of investigating ejection failure determination performance An inkjet recording apparatus includes: a head having a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink onto a recording medium; a conveyance device which conveys the recording medium in a prescribed direction along a conveyance path; an investigation pattern generation device which generates a thinned-out investigation pattern that is to be output by causing the nozzles other than a portion of the plurality of nozzles of the head to eject the ink; a reading device which is provided on the conveyance path and which reads in the investigation pattern output onto the recording medium; and a checking device which performs comparison between data of the investigation pattern read in by the reading device and data of the investigation pattern generated by the investigation pattern generation device, wherein a determination rate of ejection failure nozzles is found from result obtained by outputting the investigation pattern generated by the investigation pattern generation device onto the recording medium from the head, reading in the output investigation pattern by the reading device, and performing the comparison between the data of the investigation pattern thus read in and the data of the investigation pattern generated by the investigation pattern generation device.
US08152261B2	Inkjet printing apparatus and inkjet printing method In a serial inkjet printing apparatus mounting a plurality of kinds of inks which have different properties and are arranged in parallel, high-speed bidirectional printing is realized without causing an influence of fixing period to prolong output time more than necessary. In order to realize the high-speed bidirectional printing, an order of executing forward print scanning and backward print scanning is controlled so as to further reduce a sum of time required to form an image and time required to wait for the formed image to be fixed. Thus, also in the bidirectional printing, between a forward direction and a backward direction, print scanning in a direction having shorter fixing period is set prior to that in the other direction. Consequently, total time required for image output can be further reduced.
US08152255B2	Refrigerator with receiving box A refrigerator having an improved receiving box in contact with a cover. The refrigerator includes a first receiving box, and a cover installed to come into contact with the first receiving box and adapted to be pivotally rotated as the first receiving box is pulled out or pushed in. The first receiving box includes a sidewall having a downwardly-inclined slope with respect to a front of the first receiving box. The cover is pivotally rotated downward by movement of the cover on the downwardly-inclined slope when the first receiving box is pulled out and is pivotally rotated upward when the first receiving box is pushed in. With this configuration, the refrigerator has the effect of allowing a user to easily move food stored in a plurality of receiving spaces from one receiving space to another.
US08152254B2	Refrigerator A connection structure, for a refrigerator having a drawer door, of an anti-wobbling means which prevents the shaking phenomenon of a door is provided. There are advantages in that structural elements constituting the anti-wobbling means are easily connected to each other, and that a detachment between the structural elements is not occurred.
US08152246B2	Brake condition monitoring A method for charging an aircraft braking system for use includes monitoring actuations of an aircraft braking system to identify where generating usage and non-wear generating usage of the aircraft braking system, and charging the aircraft braking system for use based on the identified usage of the aircraft braking system. An apparatus for monitoring usage of aircraft brakes and charging the aircraft brakes for usage includes at least one sensor for sensing a brake output parameter when the aircraft brakes are actuated and providing signals indicative of values of the sensed brake output parameter. The apparatus further includes a processing system for processing the signals and determining whether an actuation of the aircraft brakes is a wear generating usage or a non-wear generating usage and operating a pricing scheme based on actuation of the aircraft brakes and the associated usage.
US08152245B2	Vehicle system having regenerative brake control A method is provided for controlling the braking of a vehicle that has a first set of friction brakes for applying a first apply brake force to a first set of wheels and a second set of friction brakes for applying a second brake apply force to a second set of wheels. A powertrain assembly is coupled to the second set of wheels. The powertrain assembly includes a regenerative braking unit capable of recapturing kinetic energy from the second set of wheels. The vehicle is braked in a first phase of control using regenerative braking to brake the second set of wheels to achieve up to a first value of braking. The vehicle is braked in a second phase of control using the regenerative braking to maintain braking of the second set of wheels at the first value of braking force while selectively applying the first friction brakes to the first set of wheels up to a second value of braking.
US08152242B2	Selective remote head restraint actuation A head restraint actuation system includes a head restraint positionable in an upright and folded position. Repositioning of the head restraint is accomplished through the action of a head restraint actuator. The head restraint actuator is in communication with the head restraint. An actuating cable system includes a cable that is in communication with the head restraint actuator and a user operated handle. User initiated movement of the handle causes movement of the cable thereby causing the head restraint to be positioned in the folded position. The activation system is able to simultaneously actuate a plurality of head restraints.
US08152241B2	Adjustment fitting An adjustment fitting, in particular for a vehicle seat, includes a first fitting part and a second fitting part that can be rotationally adjusted relative to the first fitting part about an axis of rotation. An external gear, which has internal teeth and into which an internal gear that is associated with the second fitting part and has external teeth is inserted eccentrically to the axis of rotation like an eccentric gear, is associated with the first fitting part. The internal gear forms an eccentric receiving space towards the axis of rotation. The adjustment fitting further comprises an eccentric member that is rotatably inserted into the eccentric receiving space, and a drive shaft for driving the eccentric member. The external gear is designed as a ring gear that has a bottom and an external wall which axially extends beyond the internal teeth and embraces the external teeth of the internal gear by means of a radially inward-oriented collar. In addition, the internal gear comprises an internal wall which axially extends beyond the external teeth and axially penetrates the collar. The fitting parts are thus securely fastened in the axial direction while access is made easy, especially for mounting the adjustment fitting on a vehicle seat or a seat adapter.
US08152239B2	Safety bow for a children's chair The present invention concerns a safety bow (40) for use in children's chair (1) comprising a seat plate (2), a backrest (3, 4) and possibly two side pieces (5), wherein the backrest or side pieces have at least one opening each, the safety bow being a three armed constructional part in one piece comprising: two first ends (43) with first and second connecting members (44) for hooking into the opening(s) in the backrest (3, 4) or the side pieces (5); and a third end comprising a third connecting member (46) for detachable fixing to the seat plate (2). The invention also concerns the use of the safety bow in a children's chair.
US08152232B2	Handle for motion activated furniture A release handle is adapted to activate a portion of a chair or sofa, such as a foot rest or a recline mechanism. The handle allows a user to selectively control the movement of functions of the chair. The handle is coupled to a cable, which is used to release a mechanism on the chair, such as the footrest. The handle includes a grip ring that is coupled to an annular tube at one end. The annular tube is adapted to be positioned over sheath of the pull cable. The annular tube protects the cable within the sheath to prevent wear to the cable to prevent breakage. The handle also includes a retention slot positioned at the top of the annular tube, at the junction of the tube and the grip ring. The retention slot is adapted to allow an end fitting of the cable to be snapped into the handle to secure its position. The handle also includes a pass through slot that is adapted to allow the barrel end of the cable to pass through the annular tube to allow the barrel end to be rotate 90 degrees and snapped into the retention slot.
US08152229B2	Sunroof apparatus A sunroof apparatus for opening or closing an opening formed on a fixed roof of an automobile includes: a movable front panel and a movable rear panel both provided in the fixed roof; a panel frame made of engineering plastic and attached around one of the panels; a hollow elastic weatherstrip attached around the panel frame attached around the one of the panels; a panel frame made of the engineering plastic and attached on a periphery end section of other one of the panels, the other one of the panels having a butt end section and the periphery end section; and a hollow elastic weatherstrip attached to the panel frame attached to the other one of the panels, wherein the opening is closed when the weatherstrip of the one of the panels and the butt end section of the other one of the panels butt against each other. This structure can enhance efficiency in molding weatherstrips since the weatherstrip attached around the two panels are in a hollow structure.
US08152228B2	Vehicle mounting collar A collar system for a connecting the cab of a vehicle to the cargo bed cover or similar boxed attachment, the vehicle mounting collar including a webbed collar frame designed to mount to a standard driver's compartment or cab, without modification to the vehicle. The collar and attachment method are extremely flexible and accommodates any vehicle tolerance variation. The collar mounts to the rear flange on the cab of the vehicle, and the bulkhead of the collar has slots to receive the shell of the cargo bed cover. Shell bolts within the bulkhead slots allow the shell to be adjustably repositionable on the bulkhead of the collar by slippage of the shell bolts within the bulkhead slots.
US08152223B2	Sidewall for a motor vehicle A side wall for a motor vehicle has an inside shell made of steel plate and an outside covering connected with (particularly welded to) the inside shell. The outside covering comprises an inside panel made of a steel alloy and an outside panel.
US08152222B2	Routing structure of operating cable of vehicle comprising power slide door A routing structure of an operating cable of a vehicle comprising a power slide door, comprises: a retractor of a seatbelt device placed between a vehicle body panel and an interior material covering an inner side of a vehicle body panel facing an interior of a vehicle chamber; a webbing pulled out from the retractor, the webbing being passed through an opening of the interior material, and pulled out from a back part of the interior material towards an inner side of the vehicle chamber; the operating cable for the power slide door routed between the vehicle body panel and the interior material by crossing over a back part of the webbing, wherein a restricting piece, restricting a displacement of the operating cable towards a direction approaching the webbing, is provided on the interior material.
US08152220B2	Rear door A rear door that includes an upper section, a lower section that connects to the upper section, a trim provided to an inner face of the rear door, and a pull handle portion provided in an interior-side design surface of the trim, the pull handle portion including a handle opening formed in the interior-side design surface at a position spaced from a lower end of the trim in an upward direction, and a recessed portion that runs obliquely downwards, in a state where the rear door is closed, from the handle opening toward a rear of a vehicle body, wherein a section of the trim sandwiched between the handle opening and the lower end of the trim has an outer face that is sunken relative to the interior-side design surface of a general portion of the trim.
US08152218B2	Integral pelvic impact energy-absorbing pre-crush protective construction for vehicle door A door trim substrate having a construction which includes, in combination, an energy-absorbing pre-crush protective portion and a pelvic bolster portion is provided for use in a vehicle. The pre-crush protective portion is configured so as to protect the pelvic bolster portion from pre-crush in a vehicle side-impact event. The pre-crush portion is defined by a rib cassette structure which is preferably integrally molded into the door trim substrate below the pelvic bolster portion.
US08152217B2	Roof operating device A roof operating device includes a roof member operated so as to be extended from and stored in vehicle body, a lid operated to be opened and closed when the roof member is operated, an operation switch, actuators driving the roof member and the lid, a first and second closer mechanisms provided at first and second portions and operated for moving the lid so as to be in a fully closed state, and each of the first and second closer mechanisms including a striker, a latch and a half latched state detection portion for detecting a half latched state between the latch and the striker, wherein after the half latched state detection portions detect the half latched state, and the operation switch is continuously operated, the first and second closer mechanisms are synchronously operated in order to move the lid so as to be in a fully closed state.
US08152213B2	Multi-mode probe tweezer A tweezer that is especially useful for testing and repair of electronic circuits includes a pair of resilient blades (14, 16) with rear ends (22) fixed at a mount (24) to a pair of dielectric plastic mounting blocks (110, 112) that are clamped together by a clamping tube (140) that can be slid on and off. Front portions of the blades are connected to a spacing adjuster (80) that includes a thumb wheel (86) that can be turned to adjust the separation of the front ends (20) of the blades. The tweezer can be used as a regular tweezer, and the blades can be used as independent electrical probes.
US08152209B2	Delay apparatus for opening of vehicle door An inertia activated mechanism associated with a door latch mechanism of a vehicle obstructs operation of a door handle assembly when the inertia activated mechanism is subjected to acceleration forces from a vehicle event. Delaying structure in the inertia activated mechanism momentarily delays return to the pre-event condition during rapidly changing acceleration of the vehicle event.
US08152208B2	Panel lock A panel lock includes a stationary support base adapted to mount to a frame of an article near a panel mounted on the article. The panel lock also includes a panel-movement blocker mounted to the stationary support base to block selectively movement of the panel from a closed position to an opened position at the option of a user.
US08152207B2	Lock for a domestic appliance A lock for a movable closing element, especially a door, a cover, a flap, or similar on a domestic appliance such as a dishwasher, a washing machine, a refrigerator, or similar, includes a closing hook that can be made to engage with the closing element when being closed and made to disengage therefrom when being opened. The closing hook can be made to engage with a cavity in the closing element.
US08152205B2	Stainless-steel fitting for resin tubes A stainless-steel fitting for resin tubes, which easily and securely connects resin tubes and is also inexpensive, is provided. Resin tube (9) is inserted into insert part (8), provided on fitting main body (1); nut (3) is screwed onto fitting main body (1) and sleeve (2) is moved; in the pipe fitting which presses and locks resin tube (9) between insert part (8) and sleeve (2), a step part, composed of large diameter part (2a) and small diameter part (2b), is formed on the outer surface of the sleeve part (2); the length of small diameter part (2b) is that wherein the end-face of the small diameter part (2b) protrudes outward from nut (3), when sleeve (2) is inserted into nut (3); and nut (3) and sleeve (2) are integrated by pressing and spreading the inner diameter of this end-face.
US08152203B2	Connection devices and male-female connection system comprising them The male connection device comprises a sleeve (4) and a slide (5) that is adapted to occupy, relative to said sleeve (4), a position in which said slide (5) is advanced in said sleeve (4), said device also comprising a tubular film (6) folded back on itself and pressed between the slide (5) and the sleeve (4).The female connection device comprises a sleeve (40) and a slide (41) that is adapted to occupy, relative to said sleeve (40), a position in which said slide (41) is set back in said sleeve (40), said device also comprising a tubular film (42) folded back on itself and pressed between the slide (41) and the sleeve (40).The male-female connection system comprises such a male connection device (2) and such a female connection device (3) which are provided to be engaged within each other.
US08152201B2	Ground support system A ground support system configured to support servicing of aircraft may include a main body housing one or both of an engine and/or a blower, a control panel that is used to control operation of one or both of the engine and/or blower, and at least one acoustic wave engagement member positioned on the control panel. The acoustic wave member(s) is configured to selectively activate and deactivate an engine or blower function when touched by an operator. The acoustic wave engagement member(s) operates in the presence of moisture and debris.
US08152199B2	Passive airbag venting An occupant protection apparatus comprises an inflatable airbag with a panel, the panel including a first vent opening that permits inflation fluid to escape out of the airbag; and a valve sheet including a second vent opening movable relative to the first vent opening, the valve sheet having opposite ends that are each fixed to a surface of the airbag. One end of the valve sheet moves with the panel during inflation of the airbag to move the second vent opening relative to the first vent opening. The apparatus also includes a valve guide or envelope to guide movement of the valve sheet relative to the panel, the valve sheet is capable of sliding between the valve guide and the panel. Both ends of the valve sheet remain fixed to the panel during and after inflation of the airbag. The valve sheet includes a tear tab to temporarily retain the valve sheet to the panel.
US08152195B2	Modular suspension system and components thereof An elastomeric spring suspension is described for supporting a longitudinally extending vehicle frame rail above first and second axles forming a tandem axle configuration. The suspension includes a frame hanger assembly mounted to the vehicle frame rail. The frame hanger assembly has two full spring modules, each of which includes two shear springs, a progressive spring rate load cushion having a pyramidal shape with a flattened top surface and a spring mount for mounting the springs. A saddle assembly is connected to the spring mount, and an equalizing beam is connected to the saddle assembly and further connected to the axles. The spring rate for the suspension increases almost linearly as a function of sprung load, resembling a pneumatic suspension. Accordingly, the suspension exhibits excellent ride quality, without sacrificing roll stability.
US08152190B2	Quick release stem A stem connecting the handlebars and steerable fork of a cycle has one tube attached to the handlebars and another tube attached to the steerable fork with the tubes capable of being rotated and locked with respect to one another. This arrangement allows for various configurations of the handlebars and fork including the typical riding configuration as well as an alternate configuration where the handlebars are folded with respect to the fork. Change in configuration is accomplished without tools by way of a biased locking arrangement for the tubes.
US08152183B1	Steering system for a zero-turn radius vehicle A steering apparatus for a zero-turn radius vehicle using a steering mechanism coupled to a first set of wheel assemblies by a plurality of cables. User input to the steering mechanism causes the cables to turn the first set of wheel assemblies about a vertical axis. Specifically, the cables link the steering mechanism to cam mechanisms that are attached to each wheel assembly. The design of the cam mechanism, which preferably includes two cams of varying radii, enables the two wheel assemblies to rotate about their vertical axes at varied degrees of rotation and greater than ninety degrees from the forward facing position, thereby resulting in zero-turn radius capability.
US08152180B2	Extension system for handcart A hand cart includes an upright frame and a metal toe plate with a peripheral edge. The toe plate is slightly canted toward the ground when the cart is in a free-standing upright orientation. An extension unit slides onto the toe plate. The extension unit is canted slightly toward the ground when the cart is in a free-standing upright orientation. The extension unit include a plate and a strap. The plate is on top of the toe plate. The strap extends from the plate and down and beneath the toe plate. A fastener extends laterally from the toe plate and through the extension unit. The fastener secures the extension unit on the toe plates, generates a tensile force acting to displace the extension unit away from the peripheral edge of the toe plate, and generates compressive force which presses the extension unit against the toe plate.
US08152179B2	Wheel frame assembly for quick expansion and folding A wheel frame assembly capable of being folded and expansion rapidly for carrying out and storage easily and conveniently. A wheel frame assembly comprises a retainer frame having two parallel retaining rods; at least two rotary units; each rotary unit being formed by assembling a sleeve with a wheel; an active frame have two parallel active rods; each active rod being penetrated by a guide shaft; a telescopic rod having an inner rod and an outer rod engaged to inner rod; the telescopic rod being connected to a latch for controlling the telescopic movement of the inner rod; the actuation of the latch being performed by a handle. Another, a pin assembly can be used to replaced the telescopic rod. The pin assembly includes a rod unit engaged to the rotary unit and a wire for controlling the rod unit to separate from the rotary unit.
US08152177B1	Shopping cart accessory A shopping cart has a forward end and an aft end and includes a base structure including wheels, a chassis supported on the wheels, and a basket attached to the chassis. The shopping cart also includes an accessory seat structure attached in articulated fashion to the base structure and including a seat base and at least one leg attached to the seat base. The seat base has a forward end and an aft end. The accessory seat structure is movable relative to the base structure between a stored position, in which the forward end of the seat base is positioned beneath the basket, and a deployed position, in which the seat base extends aft of the basket and is supported in a substantially horizontal orientation by the base structure at the forward end of the seat base and by the leg at the aft end of the seat base.
US08152176B2	Truck assembly A truck assembly for a vehicle such as a skateboard or scooter may have a kingpin about which a hanger rotates. The hanger may be biased toward a caming surface having a depressed configuration by a spring, weight of the rider and also via a centrifugal force created during turning. This aids in dynamically stabilizing the truck assembly and the vehicle to which the truck assembly is mounted based on the particular rider and the maneuver being performed on the vehicle. The caming surface may have a regressive configuration such that the spring compresses at a different rate per degree of rotation of the hanger.
US08152174B2	Quick chucking unit, with sealing unit, and quick chucking system The invention relates to a quick chucking unit with a chuck receptacle formed by a basic body, with at least one chucking element that can move relative to the basic body between an unlatched and latched position, with a cylinder and a piston element situated within the cylinder, which together with the cylinder, borders at least one pressure region, wherein pressurizing the pressure region moves the chucking element into the latched or unlatched position, wherein the piston element is designed as a piston element fixed in place relative to the basic body, and the cylinder is designed as a cylinder element that can move relative to the basic body and piston element. The invention also relates to a sealing unit for such a quick chucking unit, as well as to a quick chucking system.
US08152173B2	Clamping apparatus and method A method and apparatus are provided, for clamping a fiber placement tool to a fiber placement machine, along a rotational axis of the fiber placement machine, through use of a clamping apparatus having a plurality of drive lugs extending axially from the machine, and having three intersecting faying surfaces thereof which mate simultaneously in substantially intimate contact with three corresponding intersecting faying surfaces of a plurality of drive lug receptacles extending axially from the tool. Pairs of movable tines, disposed on opposite sides of each drive lug, pull the drive lugs into intimate contact with the drive lug receptacles. Master fixtures are used for setting the drive lugs and lug receptacles with respect to corresponding ones of the other, to achieve a desired intimate fit between faying surfaces thereof.
US08152166B2	Hybrid control of sheet transport modules A method of providing hybrid control of sheet transport modules in a processing device. The method includes setting velocity of a first sheet transport module of the processing device to a predetermined velocity value before transfer of a sheet from the first sheet transport module to a second sheet transport module of the processing device. The method further includes setting torque of the first sheet transport module to a torque value to control tension of the sheet to a first sheet tension value when the sheet transfers from the first sheet transport module to the second sheet transport module.
US08152162B2	Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet stacking device has a discharging portion, a holding portion that holds a downstream end portion of the sheet, a stacking portion and a control portion that controls the discharging portion and the holding portion. The control portion controls at least one of the discharging portion and a holding portion so that the movement velocity of the holding portion is higher than the sheet discharge velocity of the discharging portion, and separates the sheet from the holding portion by using a velocity difference between the movement velocity and the sheet discharge velocity.
US08152157B2	Sheet processing apparatus, sheet take-out apparatus, and sheet take-out method thereof A sheet processing apparatus and a sheet take-out apparatus that prevents a sheet conveyed by a take-out portion from hanging-down and falling, when the take-out portion is stopped due to an emergency. If a take-out emergency process state occurs during the take-out of sheets, the sheet take-out apparatus stops upward movement of a backup plate, moves down feed stoppers, and presses a sheet bundle from above to prevent the sheet on the uppermost surface from being taken out. The sheet take-out apparatus also keeps a rotor air valve on and takes out the sheet caught in a sheet take-in port. When residual sheets on the backup plate are later detected, the sheet take-out apparatus moves down the position of the backup plate, turns off air valves for the rotor, fixed absorbing unit, and handling, and loads a hanging-down sheet on the backup plate, to prevent the sheet from scattering.
US08152152B2	Apparatus and method for sealing paper with paste An apparatus for sealing paper with paste includes a paper-feeding unit, a pasting main body which seals open ends of a sheet of paper by an adhesive, and a paper-receiving unit on which the sealed sheets of paper are loaded. The pasting main body includes an opening mechanism which opens a closed sheet of paper, an adhesive applying mechanism which applies a peelable temporary adhesive in a streaky form to a lower folded piece of the opened sheet of paper, a sealing mechanism which superposes an upper folded piece on the lower folded piece, and which temporarily adheres the open ends of the upper and lower folded pieces, and a conveying mechanism.
US08152149B2	Folding bench with three member top A portable workbench includes top members, a support structure, a frame, wheels and a toe plate. The top members lie in a common plane and define a working surface with opposing side portions that define clamping surfaces. The support structure supports the top members and permits selectively traversing at least one of the pair of top members toward another to permit a workpiece to be clamped therebetween. The frame includes collapsible legs. The wheels and toe plate are coupled to the frame adjacent to each other. The workbench is positionable in a raised position, a collapsed position and a hand truck position. The toe plate is movable from a retracted position to an extended position to permit the portable workbench to be employed as a hand truck.
US08152144B2	Apparatus for exercising a force on a load An apparatus for exerting a force on a load, comprising at least a first spring system and a second spring system, which two spring systems are coupled with the load and produce forces that are applied to the load, wherein an adjusting device is provided coupled with the load, which is equipped with at least one coupling with which the first spring system and/or the second spring system are/is coupled, and which adjusting device is designed for moving the coupling subject to an adjustment of the load, wherein the first spring system has a linear spring characteristic and is coupled with the load, and wherein the second spring system is coupled with the coupling at a side of the coupling removed from the load, and wherein the coupling is designed for adjusting the second spring system subject to a predetermined spring characteristic of the second spring system such that, at the side of the load, the combination of the coupling with the second spring system possesses a force path diagram having a linear characteristic.
US08152139B2	Chain load binder (Ausbinder) There is disclosed a load binder device (10) for tightening, a load, for example during transport on a truck. The device is connected to hooks (80, 102) for securement to suitable anchor points and has an actuating lever (20) and lashing wheels 40. The actuating lever includes a pushing plate (32) which engages ratchet teeth (41) of the lashing wheels to rotate them. A stop plate (56) engages with the ratchet teeth and allows the lashing wheels to be rotated to tighten the load but prevents the wheels from rotating in an opposite direction to release the load. The actuating lever can be released from the lashing wheels by lifting the pushing plate and can be moved into an unlocking position in which cam-like lobes (24), forming part of the lever, force the locking plate into a disengagement position for releasing the lashing wheels to allow the load to be released.
US08152134B2	Valve with regulating function A terminal valve having a cone (9) that communicates with a valve seat (10) of a seat ring (19) and cooperates with a veil (12) to control flow. The valve seat (10) and the veil (12) together form a sealing element, which seals against the cone (9) as well as the valve body (1). The cone (9) has a cylindrical portion (46) with slits (49, 50) that form a flow passage area which allows a flow that corresponds to a modified logarithmic function.
US08152132B2	Pneumatic actuator having diaphragm retention ring A pneumatic valve actuator for moving the valve stem of a control valve comprises an upper casing and a lower casing each having flanges, a diaphragm plate operatively coupled to the valve stem, a spring arranged to bias the diaphragm plate in a first direction, a diaphragm movable in conjunction movement of the diaphragm plate, an air inlet defined in the casing and arranged for attachment to an air supply source to bias the diaphragm plate in a second direction, and a ring disposed between the upper flange and the lower flange and positioned to engage the outer portion of the diaphragm. The ring includes a protrusion positioned to engage a surface of the outer portion of the diaphragm.
US08152129B2	Plinths constructed of plastic material A plinth constructed of plastics material including a platform; a continuous side wall depending from said platform and adapted to rest on the ground, said side wall including one or more peripheral portions and one or more divider portions, each of said one or more divider portions dividing the platform into at least two load bearing sections and each divider portion including two spaced apart divider wall portions joined by a bottom wall adapted to rest on the ground so as to support the adjacent load bearing sections of said platform, said platform, said divider wall portions and said bottom wall providing a continuous top face.
US08152126B2	Constant bearer The invention relates to a constant bearer for moving loads, especially pipelines and similar, comprising a fastening part, a load-bearing part, and a spring system located between the fastening part and the load-bearing part for generating a constant bearing force, where the spring system displays a main spring assembly absorbing the load and a compensating device to compensate for changing spring forces of the main spring assembly.With the objective of more easily transmitting the forces of the spring assembly and enabling improved compensation for the changing forces of the main spring assembly, two basic embodiments are proposed as a solution, where, in the first embodiment, an auxiliary spring assembly, as part of the compensating device, and the main spring assembly are located roughly perpendicularly to the bearing force, at least one cam part facing the main spring assembly is provided on the load-bearing part guided in sliding fashion over a travel path in the bearing force direction, and a load side of the main spring assembly is supported on the cam part of the load-bearing part. In the second embodiment, the auxiliary spring assembly is dispensed with and compensation for changing spring forces over a spring excursion is achieved via a cam part 13 with cam lever.
US08152123B2	Tank retaining apparatus A tank retaining bracket having a rotating head for selectively receiving and securing a tank to the bracket having a mounting cup preferably of nylon which adapted to abut and hold a cylindrical tank in an inverted position in a positively engaging manner. The mounting cup includes an arcuate retaining surface and can easily replaced during normal maintenance. The mounting cup is attachable to the rotating head of the bracket frame of a positively engaging tank holder usable with cylindrical tanks such as self-contained breathing apparatus primarily for facilitating adjustability of positioning of retaining of the tank with respect to the mounting bracket. The body member is adjustably movable to a multiple of lateral directions such that it is firmly secured in place by a plurality of fasteners and engagement is further enhanced by a ridge on the rotating frame head and a mated engaging block on the mounting cup.
US08152116B2	Dialysate bag seal breakage sensor incorporated in dialysate bag management A stand for a medical fluid treatment, a system for supporting medical fluid bags, and a method for testing and sensing whether a bag or a seal in a chamber of a multi-chamber bag has been broken prior to providing therapy. A stand stores one or more medical fluid bags, each bag stored on a single shelf. Each shelf has a sensor for sensing the presence or absence of fluid in the bag, and reporting the status of the bag to a central location, such as a computer. The sensor can also detect and report on whether fluid has leaked from the bag, or in the case of bags with two or more chambers, if a leak in a frangible seal separating the chambers has developed.
US08152114B2	Versatile pole support, system and method An apparatus includes a lockable, adjustable pole support rail allowing a user to adjust a mounted pole to vertical on sloping terrain. The apparatus has multiple embodiments and useful applications, in that it can be attached to a vehicle's hitch receiver, or can be self-supporting utilizing fold-out stabilizing or attachable legs, for example. In addition, the apparatus may include wheels, thus permitting ease of transport to or from a vehicle. The pole can be deployed with a range of attachments or devices depending on the application. Exemplary applications include a photography camera, a surveillance camera, an infra-red camera, an antenna, loudspeakers, lighting equipment, signage, weather monitoring equipment, inspection equipment, and detection equipment.
US08152113B2	Adjustable supporting mechanism An adjustable supporting mechanism suitable for being connected to a body of an electronic apparatus, upholding the body on a plane, and adjusting the relative position of the body and the plane is provided. The adjustable supporting mechanism includes a base, a bearing, an elastomer, a rotating shaft, and a supporting stand. The base is capable of being connected to the body. The bearing is fixed on the base. The elastomer is fixed on the base. The rotating shaft fits the bearing and contacts the elastomer. The rotating shaft is capable of rotating with respect to the base and the elastomer. When the rotating shaft rotates, the elastomer applies a resistance on the rotating shaft for resisting the rotation of the rotating shaft. The supporting stand is fixed to the rotating shaft.
US08152105B2	Parachute canopy packing sleeve and method of use A parachute packing system for facilitating insertion of a parachute canopy into a deployment receptacle or parachute receptacle includes an adjustable spring-like cylindrical sleeve that conforms to a “C”-shaped cross section, the sleeve member having rounded edges to prevent snagging of parachute material, and a gap defining a line passage slot within the cylindrical sleeve for passage of parachute suspension lines and bridle, and a pair of opposing deployment receptacle attachment points or knobs affixed to the outer surface of the cylindrical sleeve. Preferably, at least one of the receptacle attachment points or knobs engages a slotted track for sliding adjustment thereof, and a mechanism for reversibly locking the receptacle attachment point or knob within the slotted track. Optionally, the cylindrical sleeve includes an integral mat attachment hook, which runs across the bottom of the sleeve opening, for attachment to a packing mat made of non-slip rubberized material.
US08152098B2	Torque limiter with brake A torque limiter device for an aircraft wing-mounted flap includes a drive input, an output rotatable in response to rotation of the drive input, and a roller-jammer operable in the event that the torque transmitted between the drive input and the output exceeds a predetermined level to apply a braking load to the drive input and/or the output, and a brake device operable to apply a braking load to the roller-jammer device to cause activation thereof.
US08152093B2	Laminate structure with electronic devices and method Various laminate structures and methods of making laminate structures are provided. In one embodiment, a laminate structure includes a base layer, a metallized layer comprising an electronic/embedded device which is adhered to the base layer. A coating layer which is adhered to the conductive layer, and a non-metallic dichroic layer adhered to the coating layer. In another embodiment, the non-metallic dichroic layer directly contacts the electronic/embedded devices of the conductive layer. The laminate structures herein can be used in the hull of the air vehicles to communicate with satellites and ground based receiving stations, for example. The electronic/embedded devices of the laminate structures provide a low weight solution to transmitting and receiving data within an air vehicle.
US08152090B2	Take-up device The invention relates to a method for catching and taking up as well as a winding machine for continuously winding up threads. In order to catch the thread on a winding spindle, two thread guides form a thread section upstream and downstream of the winding spindle. Preferably, said thread guides are simultaneously displaced in a synchronous manner during the catching process and in such a way that the thread section is guided vertically over the winding spindle. Preferably, the thread guides are simultaneously and synchronously displaced by coupling the thread guides to each other and displacing the same with the aid of a common drive unit.
US08152087B2	Handle arm mounting structure for fishing reel A handle arm mounting structure for a fishing reel includes a fastening section and a washer member. The fastening section has a first non-circular hole configured to engage non-rotatably with a non-circular section of a handle shaft. The washer member has a circular disk-like section and an engaging protrusion and is configured to be mounted in an axial direction on the handle shaft. The circular disk-like section has a second non-circular hole that engages with the non-circular section. The engaging protrusion protrudes toward the first non-circular hole from a periphery of the second non-circular hole. The engaging protrusion has an inside surface configured to engage with the non-circular section and an outside surface having a first tapered surface that tapers toward a tip end and engages with the first non-circular hole.
US08152085B2	Crusher A crusher is provided that can stably crush various information media, such as paper, magnetic recording media including cassette tapes and the like, optical recording media, and substrates, and the like, and has excellent maintainability.Hammer members 29 that extend from a rotation shaft 45 in a radial direction and rotate with a rotation of the rotation shaft 45 are housed in a casing 21 that includes an upper loading opening 22 for loading an object to be crushed and a lower discharge opening 23 for discharging a crushed object. Fixed blades 47 are arranged within the casing 21 on an outer diameter side of the hammer members. The hammer members 29 and the fixed blades 47 crush the object to be crushed when the hammer members 29 are rotated. A guide path 20 that that guides the object to be crushed that is loaded from the upper loading opening 22 into a crushing chamber 26 in which the object to be crushed is crushed by the hammer members 29 and the fixed blades 47 is provided within the casing 21. Guide bodies 75 that lift the object to be crushed towards the crushing chamber 26 side are provided on a downstream side of the guide path 20.
US08152080B2	Systems and methods for reducing the particle size of a pozzolan Methods for comminuting the pozzolanic material include (i) providing a comminuting apparatus including a rotatable drum and an agitation medium positioned within the rotatable drum and configured to slidably move along the interior surface of the drum when the drum is rotated (ii) introducing a pozzolanic material into the comminuting apparatus and operating the comminuting apparatus so as to create a static charge on the agitation medium; and (iii) comminuting the pozzolanic material in the comminuting apparatus by rotating the rotatable drum without causing the media to crush the pozzolanic material so as to yield a reduced-size pozzolanic material comprising a majority of particles having a substantially globular shape.
US08152078B2	Faucet spray head A faucet spray head or gun body arrangement, including a spray gun body, a spray gun press handle, a spray gun inner core tube and control means, the spray gun press handle being movably fixed on the spray gun body, the spray gun inner core tube being disposed in the spray gun body, and the control means engaging with the spray gun inner core tube and the spray gun press handle, wherein two outlet waterways are provided in the spray gun inner core tube, and the control means is provided with a movable central pin controlling and shifting the two outlet waterways of the spray gun inner core tube.
US08152070B2	Two-dimensional symbol and method for reading same Disclosed is an identification symbol and system and method for reading in accordance with the present invention is preferably a two-dimensional, rectangular or square bar code symbol having a solid border, a tick-mark region adjacent to the solid border, a omni-directional reading and error detection and correction capability.
US08152065B2	Hand controller for controlling a long-range sensing system of a weapons system A hand controller for controlling an electro-optic sensor of a weapons system may include a first cam/spring mechanism configured to provide non-linear displacement to an operator applying a torque to rotate the hand controller in a first direction. A second cam/spring mechanism may be configured to provide non-linear displacement to an operator applying a torque to rotate the hand controller in a second direction. A first sensor may be configured to sense torque being applied in the first direction and to generate a command signal to control rotation of the electro-optic sensor in the first direction. A second sensor may be configured to sense torque being applied in the second direction and to generate a command signal to control rotation of the electro-optic sensor in the second direction. The command signals may be substantially mathematically proportional rate command signals with respect to applied torque.
US08152064B2	System and method for adjusting a direction of fire A method for adjusting a direction of fire includes moving a view of at least one sensor between a target area and an impact area, where a sensor performs target location. Sensor data is received from the sensor. The sensor data includes target area sensor data generated in response to sensing the target area and impact area sensor data generated in response to sensing the impact area. Image processing is performed on the sensor data to determine at least one angle between a first line from the sensor to the target area and a second line from the sensor to the impact area. Further, a set of refinements to coordinates corresponding to the target area is determined according to the at least one angle and an impact distance between the at least one sensor and the impact area. The set of refinements is communicated in order to facilitate firing upon the target area.
US08152052B2	Multiple punch and die assembly providing hand disassembly, punch length adjustment and replacement A multiple punch and multiple die assembly has a workpiece protector as a punch lifter that is operatively associated with each punch for supporting each of the punches in an inactive position as an active punch is moved by the ram to the active, i.e. operating position to thereby eliminate scoring or marking of the sheet material or other workpiece that is being punched. To eliminate the need for hand tools and hand assembly or disassembly, a manually moveable retainer on the punch assembly is provided that can be moved by hand between a punch-releasing and punch-retaining position for holding the punches within the multi-punch assembly during operation. To prevent stress fractures that formerly occurred in die carriers, support of each die is distributed between two different die components thereby reducing impact stress on the carrier as the ram drives the punch through the workpiece.
US08152051B2	Partitioned container and method of making same A partitioned container includes an outer case member erectable from a substantially flat condition to an expanded condition, and at least one partition formed from a unitary blank separate from the outer case member and configured to couple to at least one interior surface of the outer case member in the flat condition, the unitary blank including at least one divider panel and a plurality of cross members configured to automatically divide an interior of the outer case member into a plurality of cells when the outer case member is erected to the expanded condition. A partition blank for forming the partition member and a method of manufacturing a partitioned container are also provided.
US08152045B2	Jet stack brazing in a diffusion furnace A method for batch brazing jet stacks in a diffusion furnace. The method may include inserting fusible parts into slots of quartz boats and transporting the quartz boats into an interior of a reaction chamber of a diffusion furnace. An operator may seal the interior of the reaction chamber and an atmosphere of the interior of the reaction chamber may be adjusted according to a brazing recipe. A preheated furnace heating element may be moved toward the reaction chamber to increase a temperature and the fusible parts may be brazed according to the brazing recipe. The furnace heating element may then be moved away from the reaction chamber, the chamber unsealed, and the brazed parts removed.
US08152043B2	Ultrasonic horn An ultrasonic horn used in, for instance, a wire bonding apparatus and formed with mounting flanges, including a slit and a cross-sectional shape varying portion; the slit being on the central axis in the horn's longitudinal direction and extending fore and aft relative to the center of the mounting flanges, the length of the slit(s) being equal to or greater than the width direction of a flange region that is between the opposing flanges, and at least a part of the cross-sectional shape varying portion being on the outer surface of the horn at a slit region in which the slit is formed. The stress center point in the cross-section of the ultrasonic horn at the flange region is positioned more to the inside than a straight line joining the stress center points in the cross-sections of the ultrasonic horn at the front and rear end portions of the slit.
US08152042B2	Annular adhesive structure An apparatus for forming an anastomosis between adjacent intestinal sections of tissue is provided. The apparatus includes a circular surgical stapler having an anvil assembly with an anvil shaft and an anvil, the circular surgical stapler further having a tubular body portion with an annular knife and a body portion shaft selectively attachable to the anvil shaft; and a seal structure for deposition between the intestinal sections of tissue including a hub configured to engage attachment structure on at least one of the anvil shaft and the body portion shaft. The attachment structure is positioned so that the seal structure is located between the intestinal sections of tissue when the circular surgical stapler is disposed within the intestinal sections of tissue.
US08152040B2	Anchoring pin insertion unit and method A hand-operable device of mounting an anchoring pin and inserting the pin into the ground includes a hand-graspable elongate handle having an upper under and a lower end and a magnetic puck assembly fixed to the handle lower end for picking up an anchoring pin and maintaining in an insertion position until the pin is inserted into the ground.
US08152039B2	Recess filling apparatus A recess filling apparatus forms part of, or is for use with, a tool for driving a multiplicity of fixing elements into a work surface. The apparatus utilizes a dispensing strip defining a multiplicity of chambers containing filler material, each chamber containing sufficient filler material for use with a single fixing element. The apparatus comprises means to support the dispensing strip, and means for locating a chamber that contains filler material in or adjacent to the path of a fixing element, and for advancing the dispensing strip prior to driving the next fixing element.
US08152037B2	Tool carrier A tool bag for transporting a plurality of tools and for positioning over construction apparatus is provided. The tool bag includes a first storage section and a second storage section, at least a flexible cover and a handle. The first and the second storage sections are pivotally connected to each other so as to generally define an upper hinge region. The first and second storage sections are separable so that they can be disposed on opposite sides of the construction apparatus, and being movable into close proximity with one another to enable the tool bag to be carried in a more compact configuration. The flexible cover is constructed and arranged to cover the associated compartments of the storage section. The upper portions of the cover are constructed and arranged to be removed from covering relation while lower portions of the cover remain attached, thereby exposing the compartments.
US08152032B2	Cap for a condiment container The invention provides a cap for a container for storing condiments for human consumption. The cap comprises a member having a top portion with a peripheral wall that has means for retaining the cap onto the container extending downwardly for covering the mouth of the container, the top portion having dispensing openings for allowing passage of the condiments. The cap comprises a seal having a top portion comprising a central portion, a flange portion extending around the central portion for overlapping the dispensing openings of the member and a central peripheral wall extending downwardly from the top portion and having a lower end mountable to the member. In use, the seal is moveable between a closed position, wherein the flange portion covers the dispensing openings for preventing passage of the condiments outwards from the interior of the container, and an open position, wherein the flange portion and the flange portion frees the dispensing openings for allowing passage of the condiments outwards from the interior of the container.
US08152031B2	Kettle that is opened and closed easily and quickly without having to remove its lid A kettle includes a kettle body, a lid and a handle. The lid includes an inner seat having a connecting hole, an outer seat mounted on the inner seat, a sealing unit movable relative to the inner seat to open or close the connecting hole, a push rod secured to the sealing unit to move the sealing unit, and a drive shaft having a drive plate to move the push rod toward the sealing unit. The handle is connected with the drive shaft to drive and rotate the drive shaft relative to the push rod. Thus, the lid is closed at a normal state to interrupt a connection between the lid and the kettle body, so that the liquid in the kettle body will not flow outwardly from the lid even when the kettle body is inclined or upset.
US08152026B2	Nozzle retractable dispenser Provided is a nozzle retractable dispenser which includes a container (20); a cylinder (22); a piston (24); a pressing member (28); an elastic unit (30); a pumping button (36), in which a button portion (32) is formed at the upper portion of the pressing member (28), and a nozzle (34) communicating with the communication hole (26) is protruded in a lateral direction of the pressing member (28); and a cover member (40). Here, the pumping button (36) goes slidingly forward and backward with respect to the pressing member (28) at the state where the pumping button (36) has been elastically supported by the elastic unit (30), so as to be withdrawn and retracted in the lateral direction of the container (20). Accordingly, the nozzle can be withdrawn in a sufficient length in the lateral direction of a container during use, by a simple operation of slidingly manipulating the pumping button. As a result, it is convenient for a user to use the dispenser and to receive contents of the container through an exit of the tip of the nozzle. In addition, when not in use, the pumping button goes slidingly backward so as to be retracted into the inside of the container, to thus make the dispenser easily kept in custody. Further, there is no need to use a particular over-cap to thus obtain a more compact structure of the dispenser.
US08152025B2	Valving for a refillable reusable mixer bottle A self-contained mixing and dispensing container having at least two chambers, includes a valving combination of two oppositely installed one-way valves by which fluid may be transferred from one chamber to another by deforming one chamber. One of the valves permits the transfer of fluid and the other valve, communicates with the ambient atmosphere, to permit air into the deformed chamber to replace the removed fluid.
US08152015B2	Semi-finished product for producing a plastic closure from two parts A semi-finished product for the rational manufacture and assembly of a two-part closure of a spout element and of a screw cap. The spout element and the screw cap are manufactured as one piece in a coherent manner via breakage bridges. Tooling costs for injection mold tools are thus saved, and the assembly of the closure of the semi-finished product is simplified because of the defined, radial alignment of both parts.
US08152014B2	Collapsible container system A first container is provided including a first base, a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall. The first, second, third, and fourth walls, can each be placed in an erect state, substantially perpendicular to the first base or in a collapsed state substantially parallel to the first base. The first and second walls, which oppose each other, can also be placed in ramp states to allow a vehicle or cargo to be rolled over the first or second walls and onto the first base. Inverted J-shaped slots allow the first wall or the second wall to pivot about multiple pivot points with respect to the base.
US08152013B2	Universal mounting block system A wall-mounting block or frame is used to mount fixtures to exterior building walls having siding. The wall-mounting block includes two major parts, a first or base section and a second or holding section which are both configured as cap-like structures detachably connected to each other with integrated, adjustable connectors. The present design eliminates the need for special hardware to attach the holding section to the base section, and helps prevent awkward mounting situations.
US08152008B2	Bottle cap with additive supplying structure A bottle cap including an additive holding unit which is supported in a mouth of a bottle has in a lower portion thereof an opening for discharging the additive, and is open at the top. An open-and-shut unit is seated to be coaxial with the additive holding unit and moves up and down to open or shut the opening. An outer cap unit includes a sealing tube which is placed between the open-and-shut unit and the additive holding unit and performs a sealing function. A skirt having a forgery preventing function is integrally provided on a lower end of the outer cap body. A delay hook retains the skirt for a period when the opening is opened, thus delaying separation of the skirt.
US08152006B2	Merchandise security system A merchandise security system includes a rail adapted to be secured to a first associated merchandising structure, which can be a shelf or a wire rack display. The rail includes a first longitudinally extending channel. At least one tile is mounted to the rail. The at least one tile extends away from the rail so as to approach a second associated merchandising structure spaced from the first associated merchandising structure. The at least one tile includes a protrusion which is accommodated in the first rail channel to enable a sliding movement of the tile in relation to the rail. This construction allows selective access to any desired portion of at least one of the first and second associated merchandising structures.
US08152003B1	Tool hanger assembly A tool hanger assembly has a frame and a hanger. The frame has a back plate and a bracket. The bracket is mounted securely on the back plate and has a track formed in a top of the bracket. The hanger is mounted securely on the frame and has a base plate and multiple pillars. The base plate is mounted securely in the track. The pillars are securely mounted on the base plate at intervals to allow sleeves to be mounted around. Accordingly, to assemble the hanger having the multiple pillars with the frame is quick, reduces assembling cost and is convenient.
US08152002B2	Container support and storage plate Container support plate and the use thereof for the storage of containers by stacking said plates.
US08152001B1	Elastic article retainer for dishwashers A generally rectangular flexible elastic article retainer for retaining articles in a dishwasher rack has laterally opposed longitudinal sides, each having a plurality apertures configured to securely engage selected upstanding or horizontal wire-like members of the dishwasher rack frame and a center portion formed of a plurality of transverse thin elastic bands disposed in parallel spaced relation for engaging and securing articles loaded into the rack. When the elastic bands are stretched across the articles, some of the bands may be positioned to extend across the upward facing bottom surface of shorter inverted articles, such as cups, bowls or short containers, to prevent vertical movement and overturning; while at the same time other pairs of the bands of the same article retainer may be positioned on the lateral sides of adjacent taller inverted objects, such as drinking glasses, to securely grip the sides of the taller articles to prevent vertical movement and overturning.
US08151996B2	Photopolymer serum separator Contemplated whole blood separators tubes include a curable composition with a density intermediate to the density of serum and the cell-containing fraction. After centrifugation, the curable composition is located between the serum and the cell-containing fraction and preferably irradiated with UV light to initiate a curing reaction in which the curable composition solidifies to a barrier that is immobilized and resistant to breakdown at freezing temperatures and extended storage.
US08151992B2	Receptacle particularly for solid or pasty products, its method of manufacture and packaging comprising this receptacle and a container receiving same The invention relates to a receptacle particularly for solid or pasty products, its method of manufacture and a packaging for such a product comprising a receptacle supporting it and a container removably receiving this receptacle. The invention applies to the packaging of all solid or semi-solid products and in particular to food products such as unripened cheeses or cheese specialties.This receptacle (1) has a bottom (3) and a side wall (8) which extends from the bottom and which incorporates rigid wall retention means (4) capable of keeping it in an upright position relative to the bottom, these retention means being spaced over the periphery of the wall while being connected together in twos by flexible means (5) for unfolding/uplifting the wall which are formed by determined zones of at least one flexible film (2) and which are capable of allowing the reversible transition of the wall from its upright position to a folded-down position in which it extends the bottom in a more fanned-out manner.According to the invention, these retention means are secured to these unfolding/uplifting means by overmolding, at least one rigid thermoplastic material forming these retention means and optionally this bottom being injected onto this flexible film.
US08151983B2	Product display container A touch-and-feel product display container for holding a plurality of products within the container and at least one product external to the container wherein the product external to the container is retained on the outside of the container in a position where a perspective purchaser can touch-and-feel the product without having to remove either the product from an external product holder or one of the products from the compartment within the container.
US08151978B2	Low backline pressure modular conveying assembly A modular conveying assembly for reducing backline pressure when accumulating products includes a first roller belt module having a top surface and at least one first roller axle support extending above the top surface. The first axle support includes an opening. A second roller belt module adjacent to the first roller belt module has a top surface and at least one second roller axle support extending above the top surface. The second axle support includes an opening coaxial with the opening formed in the first roller axle support. A roller axle extends through the openings of the first and second axle supports. At least one roller is rotatably supported by the roller axle to reduce friction between the roller belt modules and an object carried along the conveyer belt assembly.
US08151974B2	Device for the linear movement of a carriage A linear axle for contactless energy transmission has a belt with an electrical conductor, a movable carriage and a circuit that is movable with the carriage and which is electrically connected with the conductor. In addition, a locationally fixed circuit and an inductive coupling device are provided to inductively couple electrical energy from the locationally fixed circuit into the conductor of the belt.
US08151973B2	Suspension device for linked products Provided herein are various suspension devices and associated methods and apparatus to open loops (or form opened loops) in a chain of linked products suspended from one or more suspension devices in a conveyor system. In one implementation, a suspension device for a chain of linked products includes a link support portion pivotally coupled to a conveyor, the link support portion configured to suspend a portion of the chain of linked products therefrom and comprising a lower portion downwardly extending from the link support portion. The lower portion is configured to engage a portion of a respective link of the chain upon a pivoting motion of the link support portion about a pivot axis in order to open a respective loop suspended from the link support portion to an unloading orientation for unloading.
US08151970B2	Orienting and feeding apparatus for manufacturing line The present improvement is useful for orienting and feeding blow molded preforms. Cylindrical preforms have larger threaded necks with larger encircling discs below the necks. A pair of belts is provided for conveying objects downstream. The gap between these belts is less than the disc diameter of the preforms. An output means is provided for receiving the oriented objects and directing them downstream. A means is provided at the output of the belts for deflecting any improperly oriented preforms back for recirculation. An increase in the feed rate of the preforms is achieved by an agitation means such as a blower positioned to disperse the interlocked assemblages and help move the preforms down into the belts.
US08151968B2	Belt conveyors and mining An extendable support apparatus for supporting an endless conveyor belt has an extendable frame, and a rest for supporting the conveyor belt relative to the frame. The extendable support apparatus is able to be extended and retracted by respectively extending and retracting the extendable frame while the conveyor belt circulates relative to the extendable support apparatus and while the conveyor belt is supported by the rest.
US08151964B2	Multiple disc clutch apparatus In a multiple disc clutch apparatus 10, a cam member 41 which is disposed on a side of a clutch inner member 16 is formed into an annular shape. The cam member 41 extends in a radial direction so that an outer circumferential surface of the cam member 41 is brought into abutment with a cylindrical face 19d on an inner circumferential surface of a clutch center member 19.
US08151963B2	Power transmitting apparatus A power transmitting apparatus can comprise a clutch housing rotatable together with an input member and supporting a plurality of driving clutch plates. A clutch member can support a plurality of driven clutch plates alternately arranged between the driving clutch plates via spline fitting and connected to an output member. A pressure member can be mounted on the clutch member so as to be axially movable therealong so as to accommodate pressure-contact and release of the driving clutch plates and the driven clutch plates. Back-torque limiting cams can be configured to release the connection between the driving clutch plates and the driven clutch plates when the rotation speed of the output member has exceeded that of the input member. A rotational force input to the input member can be transmitted to the output member by pressure-contacting the driving clutch plates and the driven clutch plates. The power transmitting apparatus can also comprise a limiting device for limiting a movement of the pressure member toward a direction away from the clutch member.
US08151957B2	Anti-rotation mechanism for a closed piston torque converter A piston plate anti-rotate mechanism in a closed piston, three passage torque converter including a cover having an inner radial surface, a drive plate comprising an annular plate, a piston plate having an axial inner crown, a front annular edge, an axial skirt, and a back annular edge, wherein the cover, drive plate, and piston plate are operatively arranged to rotate about a transverse axis of rotation, and wherein the piston plate is attached to the cover or the drive plate such that the piston plate is axially moveable and rotationally immovable relative to the cover. In some embodiment, the present invention further includes a leaf spring attaching the piston plate to the cover or the drive plate, such that the piston plate is axially moveable and rotationally immovable relative to the cover.
US08151956B2	Supporting carriage for a power conducting device, and power conducting device A power transmission device is proposed especially for long pathways, which comprises at least one energy supply unit composed of members, which are linked together around axes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the energy supply unit, wherein a first end of the energy supply unit can be fixed locally and the second end can be moved at least in the longitudinal direction. The energy supply unit forms an upper run and a lower run, whereby between these at least one cart is arranged, which can be moved back and forth in the longitudinal direction of the energy supply unit. This cart has a base body, which is connected to a return motion device. The return motion device is formed at least partially by at least on curved guide channel, so that the energy supply unit is guided in the curved region.
US08151954B2	Vibration damping apparatus A vibration damping apparatus wherein a mass member is elastically supported by a spring member on a vibrating member to be damped for constituting a secondary vibrating system. The spring member is a metal plate spring with one end being attached to the mass member and the other end being attached to the vibrating member. A rubber bushing having an inner and an outer tube member positioned spaced apart from one another in a diametrical direction and linked in the diametrical direction by a rubber elastic body. One of the inner shaft member and the outer tube member of the rubber bushing is fastened to the plate spring while the other is fastened to the mass member or the vibration damping apparatus, whereby the moment is exerted in the torsional direction of the rubber bushing during displacement of the mass member by vibration to be damped.
US08151953B2	Suspension and damping device for motor vehicles The invention relates to a suspension and damping device (1) for load bearing and sprung wheel support and for damping suspension movements in a motor vehicle, having at least one spring cylinder (2) having a piston (6) which is guided in a cylinder (4) so as to be movable relative to the cylinder and which acts counter to an elastically compressible spring medium (FM) in order to generate a load bearing supporting spring force (F). A separate circuit of a hydraulic damping medium (DM) which is independent of the spring medium (FM) is provided for damping. The piston (6) separates two working chambers (10, 12) from one another within the cylinder (4). One working chamber (10) is assigned to the spring medium (FM) and the other working chamber (12) is assigned to the damping medium (DM).
US08151952B2	Proportional control valve The invention relates to a proportional control valve for the variable hydraulic adjustment of the damping force of a shock absorber, for which purpose the proportional control valve has a throttle function which can be set by varying the strength I of the electric current. The invention provides that on the basis of an instantaneous level of the electrical current Iist the proportional control valve is first closed by increasing the current to a maximum current strength Imax for a short time period toverdrive in order to change the damping force F, and the proportional control valve is then opened again by reducing the current strength I to a defined average current strength I in which the proportional valve assumes an intermediate position which results in a volume flow Q which corresponds to the desired change in the damping force F.
US08151951B2	Disc brake caliper with a cooling duct A disc brake caliper comprising a suspension side portion, facing an associable suspension to support said caliper, a wheel side portion facing a wheel being rotatably integrally associable to a brake disc, said wheel side and suspension side portion comprising cylinders suitable to house pistons facing pads for breaking the brake disc, and being connected by at least one connecting bridge extending astride the brake disc. The caliper comprises at least one casing being associable to a side surface of said caliper opposite a housing recess of the brake disc, such as to define a duct extending between said suspension side and wheel side portion to convey a cooling air steam, near thrust portion of the pads being affected by the relative pistons.
US08151950B2	Permanent magnet elevator disk brake A brake assembly (18) includes a permanent magnet (36) that generates a first magnetic field (52) in a direction that causes application of a clamping force on a brake disk (22). An electromagnet (38) is energized with current of a proper polarity to generate a second magnetic field (54) opposite the first magnetic field (52). The rate and magnitude at which current is applied produces a controlled repulsive force between the two magnetic fields (52, 54) to disengage the brake disk (22). As a distance between the permanent magnet (36) and the electromagnet (38) increases, the difference in field strength decreases until an equilibrium position is obtained. The brake is applied and released in a controlled manner by varying the strength of the second magnetic field (54) relative to the first magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet (36).
US08151948B2	Single motor electronic wedge brake system locking parking force While driving one motor, an electronic wedge brake (EWB) system according to an embodiment of the present invention implements a main braking function by self-energizing caused by a wedge operation. Since only one motor is used, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and to simplify the structure. Further, the electronic wedge brake system implements various functions, such as a function for maintaining a set clearance of a pad, a wheel lock prevention function, and an EPB function by using a solenoid interlocked with a NSL (Non-Self Locking) type screw that is moved in an axial direction and supports an axial reaction force transmitted from a pad. Furthermore, a NSL (Non-Self Locking) type push rod shaft, which supports the axial reaction force, is constrained using power of the motor during park braking, and accordingly, even when the solenoid is turned off, it is possible to stably and reliably park a vehicle.
US08151947B2	Single motor electronic controlled wedge brake system The present invention provides a single motor electronic controlled wedge brake system that can achieve parking brake, frictional correction of pads, and fail safe as well as travel brake through the drive control using a single motor. Accordingly, it is possible to achieve a simple configuration of the electronic controlled wedge brake system, reduce manufacturing cost, and facilitate control.A single motor electronic controlled wedge brake system of the invention includes: a mounting plate that is fastened to a carrier movably in the pressing direction of a disc rotor; a movable wedge that is supported by the base wedge that is movably installed to the mounting plate and contacts inner/outer pads to the disc rotor by a motor in braking; a correcting wedge that is in contact with a fixed wedge fixed to the mounting plate and supports the rear side of the base wedge; and an adjusting unit that includes a pinion nut that movably supports the correcting wedge, selectively applies reaction force to the correcting wedge, and corrects a gap when the inner/outer pads are worn by cooperation with the movable wedge.
US08151943B2	Method of controlling intelligent destination elevators with selected operation modes A method of controlling an intelligent destination elevator control system streamlines the control of two or more destination elevators. Operations of a group of destination elevators are monitored to gain experience about how the population is served by the group of destination elevators that serves a building or a building zone. The analysis of measured and/or modeled data and conditions with data about traffic patterns and traffic characteristics enables the system to dynamically control the destination elevators. The system may enhance passengers' experience through efficiency and/or with an improved comfort level.
US08151939B2	Folding sawhorse brackets The folding sawhorse brackets are each formed of a single sheet of flat stock, formed to affix a rail therein and pivotally attach two legs thereto. All embodiments accept stock dimensions of lumber or other suitable materials for the rail and legs. A first configuration has two brackets, with one having its two leg pivots closer to the rail than the other. The closer legs fold immediately adjacent to the rail with the opposite legs folding outboard of the closer legs, with all legs and the rail lying in a compact parallel relationship when folded. A second configuration has two identical brackets, each bracket having one closer and one more distant pivot point from the rail. When two such brackets are assembled at opposite rail ends, they are in mirror image to one another with one closer and one more distant leg folding on each side of the rail.
US08151937B2	Levitator—ergonomic worker support system An ergonomic worker support stand with convenience features for reducing stress and supporting either the upper or lower portion of a person's body is disclosed. The stand is designed for safety, convenience and comfort in performing worker tasks. My patent includes features that reduce stress, conserve energy, and facilitate increased work productivity are important to physically challenged persons as well an able bodied worker. The stand is separable, adjustable and foldable to make it compact for storage purposes. The ergonomic stand, in the operational position, provides a sturdy, balanced, adjustable, and ergonomic platform for the support of the worker, appliances and tools. The stand has features for lighting of the workspace, holding work related accessories, powering electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically operated tools. The stand has ports for connecting personal data assistants, wireless communications, and computers used in accessing worker instructions and information.
US08151936B2	Access ladder and method An access ladder for an access hole in a building includes a plurality of sections which telescope relative to each other between an extended position, where the sections define a plane and a user can climb the sections, and a retracted position where the sections are folded on each other. Several of the sections have a least one step which preferably moves between an unfolded position where the user can stand on the step when the sections are in the extended position, and a folded position when the sections are in the retracted position. Each section slides relative to another section of the plurality of sections which it is in contact in order for the sections to telescope. A method for using an access ladder attached to an end of an access hole of a building.
US08151934B2	Portable observation tower and system for operation A portable observation tower and system of raising and lowering the tower is disclosed. The tower has a tower box with two fixed sectioned front legs and two hinged sectioned back legs. To raise the tower front legs are pulled toward back legs with a winch system mounted on a trailer hitch system. Rolling landing gear is lowered and drawn by winch to a front most locking position. This raises the mid section of tower box reducing the angle of front legs to back legs. Once complete the winch line can be attached to an axle of back legs to draw back legs to front legs. This process elevates tower to its full upright position. Wheels are provided on back legs and on trailer hitch system for movement of the tower. The lowering process occurs in reverse order of the raising process.
US08151933B2	Thermally and acoustically insulative vehicle flooring A vehicle flooring system with improved thermal and acoustic properties is provided that does not unreasonably increase the thickness and weight of the flooring system and does not break down due to repeated exposure to high temperatures and wide ranging temperature fluctuations. Various materials and construction methods are combined to provide a system with optimized thermal conductivity, having varied density ratios of materials to meet particular sound transmission loss profiles. These materials include a wide range of foam and other materials.
US08151928B2	Work machine operator input assembly An operator input assembly includes an operator input device. The operator input device includes a paddle and a leaf spring interfacing with the paddle so as to bias the paddle to a predetermined position. The paddle includes a region which interfaces with the leaf spring.
US08151926B2	Friction clutch and vehicle equipped with the same A friction plate (131) rotates in association with rotation of a pressure plate (77). A first pressing plate (132) presses the friction plate (131) to the right to move the pressure plate (77) to the right. A second pressing plate (133) receives a torque of the pressure plate (77) via the friction plate (131). A slide shaft (231) rotates together with the second pressing plate (133). The operation assist mechanism (220) gives a rightward force to the pressure plate (77), by the slide shaft (231) moving to the right upon receiving the torque from the second pressing plate (133). Balls (135) transmit a portion of the rightward force of the short push rod (43a) to the slide shaft (231) without use of the friction plate (131).
US08151924B2	Self-propelled wheel for bicycles and similar vehicles A wheel with a self-contained drive mechanism is provided to propel (or assist in propulsion of) bicycles, tricycles, and similar vehicles. The wheel preferably takes the form of a detachable wheel which is readily received within the dropouts of a bicycle frame or fork to be attached therein by a standard quick-release mechanism. Thus, the wheel may be added to (or removed from) preexisting standard bicycles and the like.
US08151922B2	Exhaust apparatus of vehicle An exhaust apparatus includes an exhaust pipe passing under the front floor and rear floor and extending toward the rear of the vehicle. A noise eliminator is arranged under the rear floor and a fuel tank is arranged in a side portion in the vehicle width direction of the noise eliminator. A portion of the exhaust pipe on the front side of the front floor and a portion on the rear side of the noise eliminator are elastically mounted to the vehicle body. The exhaust pipe and a portion on the side opposite to the side of the fuel tank at a lower surface portion of the front floor are coupled by a metal wire having slack in an intermediate portion therebetween. In a side impact to the vehicle body, the fuel tank and noise eliminator do not interfere with each other.
US08151921B2	Vehicle front structure A vehicle front structure is disclosed in which a bulkhead (15) is provided between left and right front side frames (11), and a cooling unit (17) is provided having a radiator in the bulkhead. An upper support bracket (41) and a lower support bracket (42) for supporting upper and lower parts of the cooling unit are provided so as to be capable of sliding in a rearward direction of the vehicle body. The upper and lower support brackets slide in the rearward direction of the vehicle body when the vehicle is involved in a light collision, whereby the cooling unit moves rearward while kept in a vertical state and damage is reduced.
US08151918B2	Method for controlling energy in the traction chain of a hybrid vehicle and hybrid vehicle The method includes, during a first step (8) determining in real time the fuel consumption gain of the thermal engine by defining the difference between the consumption of the thermal engine in operation and the consumption of the thermal engine when stopped independently from other energy sources outside the thermal engine, the equivalent consumption being calculated from a predetermined coefficient corresponding to the ratio between a consumption difference and an engine power difference for a given engine speed; during a second step (9), deciding to switch on or switch off the thermal engine according to a criterion and to the consumption gain, the criterion depending on the recovery level of the electric energy recovering means and being determined in order to increase the use of the electric energy storage means and to switch off the thermal engine as often as possible.
US08151913B2	Dual wheelend for a vehicle An axle assembly for a vehicle comprising a stationary spindle and a rotatable axle shaft. An intermediate hub is supported on the spindle. Adjacent inner and outer wheel hubs are supported on the intermediate hub. A differential mechanism interconnects the inner and outer wheel hubs for driving both of the wheel hubs and for permitting relative rotation between the wheel hubs. At least one differential bushing is disposed between the differential mechanism and the intermediate hub. A gear reduction system interconnects the intermediate hub and the axle shaft for providing torque multiplication. A wet disc brake device is coupled between the spindle and the intermediate hub.
US08151911B1	Polycrystalline diamond compact, methods of fabricating same, and rotary drill bit using same Embodiments of the present invention relate to superabrasive materials, superabrasive compacts employing such superabrasive materials, and methods of fabricating such superabrasive materials and compacts. In one embodiment, a superabrasive material includes a matrix comprising a plurality of coarse-sized superabrasive grains, with the coarse-sized superabrasive grains exhibiting a coarse-sized average grain size. The superabrasive material further includes a plurality of superabrasive regions dispersed within the matrix, with each superabrasive region including a plurality of fine-sized superabrasive grains exhibiting a fine-sized average grain size less than the coarse-sized average grain size. In another embodiment, the superabrasive materials may be employed in a superabrasive compact. The superabrasive compact comprises a substrate including a superabrasive table comprising any of the disclosed superabrasive materials. Further embodiments are directed to applications utilizing the disclosed superabrasive articles in applications, such as rotary drill bits.
US08151910B2	Drilling jar A bidirectional drilling jar, capable of repeated unidirectional firing, including a sliding assembly that is disposed in a sliding relation to the interior of a barrel assembly. A portion of the inner diameter of the barrel assembly forms a restricted barrel segment. The restriction intermediate an upper chamber and a lower chamber. A metering system comprising an upper flange a meter valve, and a lower flange. The meter valve slideably disposed on the sliding assembly between the upper and lower flanges. The metering system travels between the upper chamber and the lower chamber providing limited, controlled flow of the fluid contained therein when passing through the restriction in order to pressurize the system and produce a jarring stroke. Alternatively, the metering system comprises an upper flange, a meter ring, a meter valve, and a lower flange. The meter valve and meter ring are slideably disposed on the sliding assembly intermediate the upper and lower flanges.

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