| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08206627B2 |
Systems and methods of making molded composite blocks
Provided are filtration matrixes formed from adsorptive media, such as activated carbon, and polymeric binder for use in water filtration systems. A first aspect of the invention provides methods of making a filtration matrix comprising: mixing an adsorptive media with a polymeric binder to form a mixture; impulse filling a mold with the mixture; and processing the mixture to form the filtration matrix. Filtration matrixes formed from this method are also provided. Another aspect includes methods of making a filtration matrix comprising: mixing adsorptive media with a polymeric binder to form a mixture; filling a mold with the mixture; and applying heat and pressure the mixture to form the filtration matrix, wherein the step of applying pressure to the mixture comprises compressing the mixture until a desired final shape of the filtration matrix is obtained. |
| US08206625B2 |
Filter element
A filter element, and filter apparatus, include a filter pack, a seal member, and a seal support frame operatively connecting the seal member to the filter pack. The seal support frame includes an annular extension, which is preferably canted at an oblique angle to a longitudinal axis, for supporting the seal member. The seal support frame also preferably includes a first end thereof including the annular extension, and a second end thereof spaced from the first end thereof along the longitudinal axis, with the first and second ends of the seal support frame joined by a hub of the outer peripheral sidewall of the seal support frame to define a cavity within the seal support frame for receiving the filter pack. The first and second ends of the seal support frame, and the filter pack are preferably joined and sealed to one another by a single bead of adhesive. |
| US08206623B2 |
Process for producing ceramic fine particles, and ceramic fine particle producing apparatus used therein
Provided are a ceramic-fine-particle producing process making it possible to produce, with ease, ceramic fine particles which have a spherical shape close to a complete round and an excellent mono-dispersibility, and are made only of a solid component of a simple ceramic material without making a fine channel structure complicated, and an apparatus used therein for producing ceramic fine particles. The process includes the step (S100) of feeding a dispersion phase made of an aqueous liquid containing a gelling agent to act upon cooling and a ceramic material into a continuous phase made of an oily liquid containing a surfactant, thereby producing fine droplets; the step (S110) of collecting and cooling the produced fine droplets; the step (S120) of washing the cooled fine droplets; the step (S130) of drying the washed fine droplets; and the step (S140) of firing the dried fine droplets. |
| US08206622B2 |
Process for production of ionically crosslinked polysaccharide microspheres
The invention relates to a process for preparing microspheres comprising an ionically crosslinked polymer, the process comprising: (a) producing liquid aerosol droplets (13) from a solution (3) comprising an ionically crosslinkable polyionic polymer into a continuous gas stream by using an ultrasonic nebulizer; (b) transferring the gas stream into a gelling solution (10) comprising di-, multi- or polyvalent ions, whereby crosslinked polymer microspheres (14) are formed, (c) separating the microspheres from the gelling solution, and (d) optionally, filtering the microspheres through a screen. |
| US08206621B2 |
Use of ethanol as plasticizer for preparing subcutaneous implants containing thermolabile active principles dispersed in a PLGA matrix
A plasticized polymer of PLGA employing ethanol as the plasticizing agent prepared at a temperature higher than the Tg and lower than the boiling point of ethanol can be used in subcutaneous implants containing active ingredients therein. |
| US08206619B2 |
Color correction material, film-forming composition, and optical filter
A color correction material contains at least one type of cyanine compound composed of a cyanine cation represented by general formula (I) below (wherein the symbols are as defined in the description) and a q-valent anion represented by pAnq− (wherein the symbols are as defined in the description), and at least one type of layered clay mineral; or a color correction material containing a clay mineral composite obtained by intercalating a cyanine cation represented by general formula (I) below, or preferably the cyanine cation and an organic cation, into a layered clay mineral. Also described is a film-forming composition containing the color correction material and an optical filter having a layer composed of the film-forming composition. Ring A represents a benzene ring or a naphthalene ring; X represents CR3R4, NR5, an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom, or a selenium atom. |
| US08206616B2 |
Solution-based fabrication of photovoltaic cell
An ink for forming CIGS photovoltaic cell active layers is disclosed along with methods for making the ink, methods for making the active layers and a solar cell made with the active layer. The ink contains a mixture of nanoparticles of elements of groups IB, IIIA and (optionally) VIA. The particles are in a desired particle size range of between about 1 nm and about 500 nm in diameter, where a majority of the mass of the particles comprises particles ranging in size from no more than about 40% above or below an average particle size or, if the average particle size is less than about 5 nanometers, from no more than about 2 nanometers above or below the average particle size. The use of such ink avoids the need to expose the material to an H2Se gas during the construction of a photovoltaic cell and allows more uniform melting during film annealing, more uniform intermixing of nanoparticles, and allows higher quality absorber films to be formed. |
| US08206615B2 |
Paste for emission source and electron emission element
An object of the present invention is to provide a paste for an electron emission source, which can retain good electric contact between CNT and a cathode electrode, by containing an electrically conductive particle having a particle diameter within the optimal range. A paste for an electron emission source containing a carbon nanotube having a diameter of 1 nm or more and less than 10 nm, and an electrically conductive part having an average particle diameter of 0.1 to 1 μm. |
| US08206613B2 |
Phosphor composite material and phosphor composite member
Disclosed is a phosphor composite material which can be fired at low temperatures and enables to obtain a phosphor composite member which is excellent in weather resistance and reduced in deterioration after long use. Also disclosed is a phosphor composite member obtained by firing such a phosphor composite material. Specifically disclosed is a phosphor composite material composed of a glass powder and a phosphor powder, which is characterized in that the glass powder is composed of SnO—P2O5—B2O3 glass. |
| US08206610B2 |
Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal composition is provided that satisfies at least one of characteristics such as a high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, a low minimum temperature of a nematic phase, a small viscosity, a suitable optical anisotropy, a negatively large dielectric anisotropy, a large specific resistance, a high stability to ultraviolet light and a high stability to heat, or that is suitably balanced regarding at least two of the characteristics. The crystal liquid display device using the composition is suitable for an AM device that has a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, a long service life and so forth, and can be used for a liquid crystal projector, a liquid crystal television and so forth. |
| US08206609B2 |
Reducing agent for low temperature reducing and sintering of copper nanoparticles
The present invention relates to a reducing agent for low temperature reducing and sintering of copper nanoparticles and a method for low temperature sintering using the same. The reducing agent includes formic acid or acetic acid and C1 to C3 alcohol or ether which allows reducing and sintering at a low temperature of less than 250° C. The sintered copper nanoparticles provide excellent electrical properties and are suitable for forming fine wirings patterns. |
| US08206607B2 |
Reduced toxicity ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/heat transfer fluid concentrates and antifreeze/heat transfer fluid concentrates and antifreeze/heat transfer fluids
A method for cooling an internal combustion engine using a reduced toxicity, ethylene glycol and water based heat transfer fluid is provided. A heat transfer fluid is formulated comprising water and a glycol component consisting of ethylene glycol and either propylene glycol or glycerol. Propylene glycol may be provided in an amount between 5% to less than 30% of the total weight of the glycol component. Glycerol may be provided in an amount between 5% to 20% of the total weight of the glycol component. The glycol component is less toxic than 10,000 mg/kg on an acute LD50(rat) oral toxicity basis. The water comprises between 40% and 70% by weight of the total weight of the heat transfer fluid. The cooling system of the internal combustion engine is substantially filled with the heat transfer fluid such that the heat transfer fluid absorbs heat that is produced by the internal combustion engine and releases the absorbed heat to the atmosphere. |
| US08206601B2 |
Supporting membranes on nanometer-scale self-assembled films
Block copolymer lithography has emerged as an alternative lithographic method to achieve large-area, high-density patterns at resolutions near or beyond the limit of conventional lithographic techniques for the formation of bit patterned media and discrete track media. In one embodiment, a structure comprises a plurality of nanostructures extending upwardly from a substrate and a porous membrane extending across upper ends of the plurality of nanostructures. A method, according to another embodiment, comprises forming a block copolymer layer on a substrate, inducing self assembly of the block copolymer layer, selectively degrading a block polymer from the block copolymer layer, forming a porous membrane over the block copolymer layer, and removing a portion of the block copolymer layer for defining a plurality of nanostructures extending upwardly from the substrate after forming the porous membrane over the block copolymer layer. Other systems and methods are disclosed as well. |
| US08206600B2 |
Nanoimprinting of an optic to control the etch pattern on electrolytic capacitor foil
A method of etching a foil for use in an electrolytic capacitor utilizes a nanoimprinted optic to control the etch pattern. The optic is formed by creating a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of hemispheres onto the surface of an optical quartz substrate. A laser is directed onto the optic while the foil underlies the optic, and the concentrated light source is used to effectively image an array of submicron spots. The resulting spots allow for controlled initiation of etch tunnels during a subsequent electrochemical etch of the foil, with the purpose of ultimately increasing foil capacitance through the increased surface area. |
| US08206598B2 |
Method of purging a fluid line
An adapter for the purging of lines is described that comprises a plate and an attachment mechanism. The plate includes a first side and an opposed second side that are connected by at least one edge. The plate has a first interface defined on the second side that is adapted to connect to a portion of a cap of a filter assembly in a close fitting relation. The first interface is also adapted to define an interior space between the portion of the cap and the plate. The interior space is in fluid communication with a first line that is connected to the filter assembly. The attachment mechanism secures the plate and the portion of the cap in the close fitting relation. The plate includes a second interface that is adapted to connect to an external source of pressure. The second interface is in fluid communication with the interior space. |
| US08206594B2 |
Fluid management system for accurate continuous hemofiltration in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
A novel system and method for fluid management for accurate continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CWH) in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The fluid management or CWH system is automated and configured for operation as a stand alone unit and can be easily integrated with an ECMO system. The fluid management system is capable of producing either perfect or negative fluid balance between ultrafiltrate removal and replacement fluid delivery. The fluid management system can achieve electrolyte replacement over a range of flow rates needed to care for patients ranging from neonates to adults. Finally, the novel fluid management system preserves patient safety, maintains sterility during operation, is easy to operate, and is compact enough to fit near a patient's bed. |
| US08206593B2 |
Microfluidic chemical reaction circuits
New microfluidic devices, useful for carrying out chemical reactions, are provided. The devices are adapted for on-chip solvent exchange, chemical processes requiring multiple chemical reactions, and rapid concentration of reagents. |
| US08206592B2 |
Treating acidic water
The invention relates to systems and methods of treating water by directing the water to a first reverse osmosis (RO) membrane; separating the water using the first RO membrane; adding a chelating agent to first permeate and/or raising the pH of the first permeate to between about 5.5 and 7.5 before a second RO membrane; and separating the first permeate into a second permeate and a second concentrate using the second RO membrane, thereby separating constituents from the water. |
| US08206591B2 |
Method of removing protein-bound deleterious substances during extracorporeal renal replacement treatment
The invention is directed to a method of removing a deleterious substance bound to a protein in blood of a patient by introducing a displacer substance into the blood under conditions in which the displacer substance replaces deleterious substance bound to the protein, thereby resulting in additional unbound deleterious substance in the blood, and removing unbound deleterious substance from the blood by extracorporeal renal replacement treatment. |
| US08206589B2 |
Desalination system and method for integrated treatment of brackish concentrate and seawater
Various embodiments described herein provide methods and apparatus for producing purified water from sea water or some other salty or brackish water source by using brackish concentrate mixed with salty water. The various embodiments also provide methods and apparatus for the treatment of toxicity of brackish concentrate, which brackish concentrate exhibits on aquatic life inhabiting the area of discharge of the brackish concentrate, as well as a method for environmentally safe disposal of brackish concentrate. |
| US08206588B2 |
Condensate filtering device
A condensate filtering device of the present invention comprises a simulation unit which is able to simulate operating conditions being the same as operating conditions of a main body of an actual condensate filtering device and sample a hollow fiber membrane easily. The condensate filtering device comprises a unit evaluating properties of a hollow fiber membrane provided with a main body of the condensate filtering device containing a first hollow fiber membrane module in which filtration of condensate and air scrubbing washing are repeated, and equipped with a column containing a second hollow fiber membrane module having a hollow fiber membrane which is the same kind as the hollow fiber membrane of the first hollow fiber membrane module; and a line introducing the condensate for unit which is a branched line from a line introducing the condensate directing to the main body of the condensate filtering device and introduces the condensate into the unit evaluating the properties of the hollow fiber membrane. |
| US08206586B2 |
Systems for polishing wastewater utilizing natural media filtration
Wastewater treatment systems, methods and apparatus for polishing a wastewater stream comprising a plurality of contaminants are provided. One system includes a vessel containing a plurality of natural media filtration agents selected to remove selected ones of the plurality of contaminants from the wastewater stream. In one embodiment, the vessel includes a bed of bauxite residue and at least one other natural media filtration agent. In another embodiment, the vessel includes a bed of compost and at least one other natural media filtration agent. The vessel includes a wastewater inlet that is in fluid communication with one or more of the natural media filtration agents. The vessel includes a wastewater outlet that is in fluid communication with one or more of the natural media filtration agents. |
| US08206580B2 |
Integrated blood treatment module
An integrated blood treatment module comprises a blood treatment device (1) having a housing (2) and a first end-cap (4) and a second end-cap (5) closing both ends of the housing (2). A pump hose (17) for a peristaltic pump has a first end (18) that is secured to the housing (2) and a second end (16) that is connected to a blood inlet port (15) of the first end-cap (4) so as to form a loop. A degassing device (30) is connected to the second end-cap (5). The degassing device (30), which, in use, is full of liquid, comprises a hydrophobic membrane through which bubbles and micro-bubbles escape the degassing device. |
| US08206579B1 |
Aquarium filtration system
An aquarium filtration system with enhanced features comprising a continuous flow of filtered and processed water as well as a continuous drain system is herein disclosed. In such a manner, the water is continually changed over time, thus minimizing required emptying and/or cleaning. Additionally the system holds and maintains the desired pH level and water hardness, while controlling ammonia and nitrite levels. A filter on the incoming water line removes chlorine and other chemicals before the water passes onto the aquarium. The system works in conjunction with a conventional automatic water level controller. Automatic check valves control water flow and prevent back flow. |
| US08206573B2 |
Electrode for electrolysis and method for producing aqueous solution of quaternary ammonium hydroxide using the same
Provided is an electrode for electrolysis with excellent corrosion resistance and durability which can be used sustainably in the production of a high-purity quaternary ammonium hydroxide by the electrolysis of a quaternary ammonium inorganic acid salt in an electrolytic cell partitioned by a cation exchange membrane on a commercial scale with reduced electric power consumption at low cost. The electrode for electrolysis is useful for the production of a quaternary ammonium hydroxide by the electrolysis of a quaternary ammonium inorganic acid salt in an electrolytic cell partitioned by a cation exchange membrane and comprises an electrode base material of an electrically conductive metal, an electrode active layer containing an electrode active material covering the electrode base material, and an intermediate layer of a mixed oxide of an oxide of at least one kind of metal selected from In, Ir, Ta, Ti, Ru, and Nb and an oxide of Sn disposed between the electrode base material and the electrode active layer. |
| US08206568B2 |
Material deposition techniques for control of solid state aperture surface properties
The invention provides a method for molecular analysis. In the method, sidewalls are formed extending through a structure between two structure surfaces, to define an aperture. A layer of material is deposited on the aperture sidewalls and the two structure surfaces. The aperture with the deposited material layer is then configured in a liquid solution with a gradient in a chemical potential, between the two structure surfaces defining the aperture, that is sufficient to cause molecular translocation through the aperture. |
| US08206563B2 |
Device for the determination of glycated hemoglobin
A method of determining the percentage of glycated hemoglobin in a blood sample is disclosed wherein at least one of the assay steps is performed electrochemically. The method includes determining the total amount of hemoglobin in a sample by electrochemically measuring, in an oxygen electroreduction reaction at a cathode, the amount of oxygen in the sample. Because the amount of oxygen dissolved in the sample is known, the total hemoglobin is determined by subtracting the amount of free oxygen from the total oxygen measured, recognizing the fast equilibrium Hb+O2⇄HbO2. This can be followed by determining the amount of glycated hemoglobin in the sample. The cathode reaction is accomplished by contacting the sample with an enzyme, the enzyme being a copper-containing enzyme having four copper ions per active unit. The family of these enzymes includes, for example, laccases and bilirubin oxidases. A device associated with such a process or method is also provided. |
| US08206561B2 |
Cylindrical sputtering target, ceramic sintered body, and process for producing sintered body
A hollow cylindrical ceramic sintered body having high density, a process for producing the sintered boy, and a cylindrical ceramic sputtering target having high quality without cracks or breakage, are disclosed. The hollow cylindrical ceramic sintered body is obtained by placing a cylindrical ceramic molding to be sintered on a plate-like ceramic molding having a coefficient of sintering shrinkage similar to that of the cylindrical ceramic molding, and then sintering the resulting assembly, thereby obtaining a hollow cylindrical ceramic sintered body having a relative density of 95% or higher. The cylindrical ceramic sputtering target is prepared using the hollow cylindrical ceramic sintered body. |
| US08206559B2 |
Apparatus for electrophoretic painting of metal objects, in particular lids for containers for food use
The apparatus for electrophoretic repainting of metal objects, in particular lids for containers for food use, comprises a tank (30) containing an electrophoretic bath; an electrode, immersed in the electrophoretic bath, a conveyor line (10), provided with elements for supporting lids (20), the conveyor line (10) being arranged such as to transit internally of the tank (30) in order to immerse the lids (20) in the electrophoretic bath; and a unit (40) for establishing an electrical contact with the lids (20) transiting immersed in the bath, having an opposite polarity with respect to a polarity of the electrode immersed in the bath. The contact unit (40) includes a rotation element (4) which rotates about a longitudinal axis thereof, an external lateral surface (42) thereof affording a groove (5) having a helical progression destined to receive conductive electrical means such as to contact at least an end portion (21) of the lids (20). The arrangement of the rotation element (4) above the tank (30) and with respect to the conveyor line (10), is such that at least a point of the conductive electrical means maintains contact with the end portion (21) of the lids (20) during transit thereof immersed in the solution of the tank (30). |
| US08206558B2 |
Apparatus for processing process or industrial wastewaters
A processing apparatus (1) for the processing of process or industrial wastewaters is provided. The processing apparatus (1) has an evaporator (4) in which a tube bundle heat exchanger is provided, whose pure distillate side is connected to a separating apparatus for separating the distillate from floating organic phase or similar free liquid constituents. This separating apparatus is intended to collect the floating organic phase from the condensate, in order that this phase can be sucked back into the evaporator (4). In addition, the vapor mixture is conducted from the separating apparatus (8) to a recuperator (3) and cooled to such an extent that the water, the volatile solvents and the organic material dissolved in the vapor can be condensed and discharged separately or can be sucked back into the evaporator (4). This allows significantly better distillate qualities to be achieved. |
| US08206556B2 |
Creping blade
A blade for creping a paper web from a dryer surface is provided, said blade having a sliding surface facing the dryer surface during use of the blade, a web impact surface upon which the paper web impacts during creping, and a working apex formed between the sliding surface and the web impact surface, wherein the working apex is located no more than 30 percent of the total blade thickness away from a neutral fiber of the blade. Preferably, the working apex of the inventive creping blade is located at or close to the neutral fiber of the blade. A method for manufacturing the blade is also disclosed. |
| US08206553B2 |
Retention and drainage in the manufacture of paper
A method of improving retention and drainage in a papermaking process is disclosed. The method provides for the addition of an associative polymer, prepared by an inverse emulsion polymerization process that utilizes multiple, discrete additions of initiator. Additionally, a process for preparation of an associative polymer, prepared by an inverse emulsion polymerization process that utilizes multiple discrete additions of initiator is disclosed. |
| US08206548B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
Mutually different plural kinds of processing liquid are sequentially supplied to a gap space in which a substrate is arranged to perform a wet processing to the substrate with respect to each processing liquid. Further, the processing liquid used in the wet processing is sequentially released from the communicating portion upon execution of each wet processing. The liquid retrieval tanks are selectively positioned at a retrieval position corresponding to the kind of processing liquid released from the communicating portion by relatively moving the processing unit and the liquid retrieval unit. The liquid retrieval unit is separated from the processing unit and is arranged below the processing unit. The processing liquid is released from the communicating portion of the processing unit to below the gap space downwards vertically. |
| US08206545B2 |
Magnetically curable composition and magnetic cure process
A curable composition comprising magnetically active elastic microspheres that are filled with a curing agent. The elastomeric microspheres are predispersed throughout the curable resin and are magnetostrictive. Cure of the adhesive is initiated when an external magnetic field is applied that physically distorts or ruptures the magnetic microspheres due to a magnetostrictive effect from the magnetic field. |
| US08206544B2 |
Cutting method and cutting device for adhesive film
A device for ideal cutting of an adhesive film mother sheet which prevents or reduces displacement or peeling of a cover film, etc. on an adhesive layer when the adhesive film mother sheet deforms as a result of shearing forces that act during cutting. The cutting device cuts the adhesive film mother sheet into strips while performing conveyance thereof and includes a cutter mechanism and heating mechanism. The cutter mechanism may include an upper blade unit wherein a plurality of upper blades are arranged axially and a lower blade unit wherein a plurality of lower blades are arranged axially. The heating mechanism is disposed upstream of the cutter mechanism and may include a blower, a heater, a temperature sensor, and/or a temperature control unit. The blower may be connected to the heater via a an air passage and be disposed so as to blow heated air onto the adhesive film mother sheet. |
| US08206543B2 |
Method of manufacturing pattern coated web configurations for use in producing shaped prime labels
The present invention is directed to a continuous process that may be utilized to create an intermediate web assembly that includes a plurality of individual prime label segments with each segment having printed portion that has an outline and a pattern coated adhesive disposed on a first web which has an outline such that when the printed portion is applied over the pattern of adhesive, the outlines of each are substantially in alignment with one another. The process is utilized to create intricately shaped prime label products. |
| US08206534B2 |
Laminated panel and process
A laminated panel (23) comprises a fusible layer (23A) having an upper surface. A mesh layer (23A, A1) has an encapsulated portion enclosed in the fusible layer so as to be below the upper surface of the fusible layer (23A). An embossed portion (A1) protrudes from the upper surface of the fusible layer (23A). A method (10) of forming a laminated panel with the fusible layer and the mesh layer comprises the steps of: i) heating the fusible layer (23A) to fuse a portion of the fusible layer; and ii) pressing only selected portion of the mesh layer against the fusible layer to provide for the formation of an embossed pattern (A1) on the resulting laminated panel (10). |
| US08206532B2 |
Method and tool for forming an elongate, hollow article of a fiber-reinforced composite material
In a method and a tool for forming an elongate, hollow article of a fiber-reinforced composite material one end of an article laminate applied to a tool bar is placed in engagement with or is supported by an anvil of the tool so as to control the direction of longitudinal movement of the cured article relative to the tool bar during the cooling and dismantling phase. |
| US08206527B2 |
Method for cold film transfer with dynamic film tensioning
A cold film transfer method with dynamic film tensioning guides a film web intermittently through a transfer nip with dancers to use less film web. The intermittent drive and action of a transfer cylinder channel result in undesired fluctuations in film tension or web force, which directly affect dancer motors. A control system is used to avoid high loads on the motors and the web. A control circuit acts on the dancer movement, a first process variable is mapped in the control circuit and the first process variable is a function of a force acting on the dancers as a result of the transfer film or is a function of the actual current movement profile of the dancers. A measure for web tension is calculated as a function of the first process variable and/or the amplitude of the web tension is at least limited by the control system. |
| US08206526B2 |
Process for reducing wrinkles in composite laminated structures
A wrinkle control process for manufacturing a closed cross-sectional, composite laminate structure on a male tool cured under temperature and pressure. The process includes the step of creating a plurality of filled or unfilled depressions at strategic locations in the laminate prior to curing. The depressions are created by depression forming elements that have a predetermined size designed to create a depression in under plies, alone or combined with intensification techniques. The depressions may be left unfilled or be partially or completely filled. Depression forming elements are removed after cure or remain part of the structure. The number of elements being determined by the following equation: N=(OPL−OPC)÷(Li−Lj), where OPL is the outside perimeter of the composite structure after lay-up and prior to curing, OPC is the outside perimeter of the composite structure after lay-up and after curing, Li is the linear length of the composite segment formed by a depression forming element and Lj is the theoretical linear length of the corresponding composite segment without a depression. |
| US08206525B2 |
Wafer bonding apparatus
Provided is a wafer bonding apparatus which performs pressurization and heating and eliminates nonuniformity of wafer thickness by changing the shape of a pressurizing surface so that planarity of a wafer bonding surface is improved. The wafer bonding apparatus places a plurality of wafers to be bonded between an upper unit (101U) and a lower unit (101L), and bonds the wafers by applying pressure and heat by the upper unit and the lower unit. The wafer bonding apparatus is provided with a top plate (111), a pressure profile control module (131), and a heater section arranged between the top plate and the pressure profile control module for heating. Shape change generated on the surface of the pressure profile control module causes change of the surface of the top plate. |
| US08206522B2 |
Non-toxic, heavy-metal free sensitized explosive percussion primers and methods of preparing the same
A non-toxic, non-hydroscopic percussion primer composition and methods of preparing the same, including at least one explosive component that has been traditionally considered a moderately insensitive explosive or secondary explosive, and at least fuel particle component having a particle size of about 1.5 microns to about 12 microns, which allows the use of moderately active metal oxidizers. The sensitivity of the primer composition is created by the interaction between the moderately insensitive explosive and the fuel agent such that traditional primary explosives such as lead styphnate or DDNP are not needed. The primer composition also eliminates the risks and dangers associated with traditional nano-sized fuel particles. |
| US08206521B2 |
High-strength stabilizer steel for vehicles having excellent corrosion resistance and low-temperature toughness, method of producing the same, and stabilizer
According to one embodiment, a high-strength stabilizer steel for vehicles having excellent corrosion resistance and low-temperature toughness, containing 0.07 to 0.20% C, more than 0.6% and 1.5% or less Si, 1 to 3% Mn, 0.1 to 1.0% Cr, 0.005 to 0.080% sAl, 0.005 to 0.060% Ti, 0.005 to 0.060% Nb, 0.070% or less Ti+Nb, 150 ppm or less N, 0.035% or less P, 0.035% or less S, 0.01 to 1.00% Cu, 0.01 to 1.00% Ni, the remainder being Fe, and unavoidable impurities, wherein a structure before molding a stabilizer is any one of a bainite, a martensite, and a mixed structure of bainite/martensite and an original austenitic crystal grain size number after a heat treatment of the stabilizer is Gh 9 or more. |
| US08206520B2 |
Method of forming ductile metallic glasses in ribbon form
The present disclosure relates to an iron based alloy composition that may include iron present in the range of 45 to 70 atomic percent, nickel present in the range of 10 to 30 atomic percent, cobalt present in the range of 0 to 15 atomic percent, boron present in the range of 7 to 25 atomic percent, carbon present in the range of 0 to 6 atomic percent, and silicon present in the range of 0 to 2 atomic percent, wherein the alloy composition exhibits an elastic strain of greater than 0.5% and a tensile strength of greater than 1 GPa. |
| US08206515B2 |
Lead-free solder composition including microcapsules
A lead-free, cream solder composition that is printable includes a SnZn alloy which is lead-free and which is a powder; a solder flux including an epoxy resin; microcapsules that are organic carboxylic acid particles encapsulated with a resin selected from a group consisting of epoxy, polyimide, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyester, polyurea, polyolefin, and polysulfone resins; and a solvent which is a glycol. The presence of the organic carboxylic acid encapsulated with a resin as microcapsules suppresses reactivity of zinc in the SnZn alloy with the organic carboxylic acid Alternately, the solder flux may include the epoxy resin; an organic carboxylic acid; and the solvent; and microcapsules that are particles of a SnZn alloy encapsulated with the described resin. The presence of the SnZn alloy encapsulated with a resin as microcapsules suppresses reactivity of zinc in the SnZn alloy with the organic carboxylic acid so that viscosity and solderability are stabilized. |
| US08206514B2 |
Medical implement cleaning device
A cleaning device for a medical implement is disclosed. The cleaning device includes a cap having an opening to an inner cavity, the opening being adapted to receive a site of the medical implement. The cleaning device further includes a compressible cleaning material that contains a cleaning agent prior to receipt of the site of the medical implement, i.e. the cleaning material is pre-loaded with the cleaning agent. The compressible cleaning material is at least partially secured in the inner cavity and adapted to swab and clean the site with the cleaning agent. |
| US08206513B2 |
Method for cleaning elements in vacuum chamber and apparatus for processing substrates
To clean an element in a vacuum chamber by causing particles sticking to the element to scatter, the present invention uses a means for applying a voltage to the element and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing Maxwell's stress, a means for electrically charging the particles and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing the Coulomb force, a means for introducing a gas into the vacuum chamber and causing the particles sticking to the element to scatter by causing a gas shock wave to hit the element, a means for heating the element and causing the particles to scatter by utilizing the thermal stress and thermophoretic force, or a means for causing the particles to scatter by applying mechanical vibrations to the element. The thus scattered particles are removed by carrying them in a gas flow in a relatively high pressure atmosphere. |
| US08206510B2 |
Method and apparatus for an in-situ ultraviolet cleaning tool
The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for an ultraviolet cleaning tool. The cleaning tool includes ultraviolet source spaced apart from a surface having contaminant particles. The ultraviolet source can create ozone between the surface and the ultraviolet source which breaks the chemical bonds between particles and the surface. The apparatus includes a gas feed which introduces a gas to aid the chemical bond. Additionally, the gas feed can introduce a gas to remove the particles from the surface. |
| US08206506B2 |
Showerhead electrode
A showerhead electrode includes inner and outer steps at an outer periphery thereof, the outer step cooperating with a clamp ring which mechanically attaches the electrode to a backing plate. |
| US08206505B2 |
Method for forming nano-dimensional clusters and setting ordered structures therefrom
The inventive method for forming nano-dimensional clusters consists in introducing a solution containing a cluster-forming material into nano-pores of natural or artificial origin contained in a substrate material and in subsequently exposing said solution to a laser radiation pulse in such a way that a low-temperature plasma producing a gaseous medium in the domain of the existence thereof, wherein a cluster material is returned to a pure material by the crystallization thereof on a liquid substrate while the plasma is cooling, occurs, thereby forming mono-crystal quantum dots spliced with the substrate material. Said method makes it possible to form two- or three-dimensional cluster lattices and clusters spliced with each other from different materials. The invention also makes it possible to produce wires from different materials in the substrate nano-cavities and the quantum dots from the solution micro-drops distributed through an organic material applied to a glass. |
| US08206504B2 |
Synthetic aggregates comprising sewage sludge and other waste materials and methods for producing such aggregates
In one example of an embodiment of the invention, a method for producing an aggregate is disclosed comprising mixing sewage sludge from a waste water treatment facility with a non-coal combustion ash silicoaluminous waste material, agglomerating the mixture to form an agglomerate, and pyroprocessing the agglomerate to form an aggregate. The waste material may comprise municipal solid waste incinerator bottom ash, incinerator fly ash, incinerator filter dusts, cement kiln dusts, waste glass, blast furnace slag, kiln dusts, and/or granite sawing residues, for example. The method may further comprise milling the waste material prior to mixing. Preferably, the milling is wet milling. Pyroprocessing of the agglomerate may take place in a rotary kiln. The resulting aggregate may be a lightweight or a normal weight, sintered or vitrified aggregate. Aggregates and methods for making aggregates of high and low calcium silicoaluminous materials are also disclosed. |
| US08206494B2 |
Device for air/water extraction by semi-humid electrostatic collection and method using same
The invention concerns a device for air/water extraction by semi-humid electrostatic collection, comprising a chamber (7) containing a discharge electrode (1) for generating an ion flow from an ionized gas accumulation surrounding the discharge electrode (1) and a counter-electrode (2), an inlet (3) for mixing air and aerosol to be extracted which contains liquid or solid particles, a steam supply tube (8) and an outlet (4) for the cleansed air. The invention is characterized in that the device enables steam to be introduce the steam supply tube (8) in the gap between the discharge electrode (1) and the counter-electrode (2) so as to form a steam sheath (10) enclosing the discharge electrode over its entire length, such that the treated air is not steam-saturated. |
| US08206492B2 |
Method and apparatus for cleaning diesel particulate filters and for diagnosing damage thereto
An apparatus for cleaning diesel particulate filters. First and second nozzle members direct flows of compressed air into the axially-extending filter cells from both ends of the filter, the nozzle members being offset so as to avoid blowing directly towards one another. The flows from the nozzles impinge only one or a few cells at a time. The nozzle members are moved over the entirety of the first and second end faces of the filter. The nozzles may be translated on arms while the filter is rotated simultaneously on a turntable or rollers. The filter and nozzles are housed within a cabinet having one or more windows, which enable an operator to view the cleaning process and also to identify filters having damaged media. The dislodged particulate material is withdrawn from the cabinet by an exhaust duct system. |
| US08206488B2 |
Fluoride ion cleaning method
A fluoride ion cleaning method includes generating hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas in-situ in a cleaning retort; contacting a part in need of cleaning with the generated HF gas; scrubbing an initial effluent stream in-situ to substantially remove residual HF gas therefrom; and passing the scrubbed effluent gas stream out of the cleaning retort. In an exemplary method, a liquid or gaseous halogenated feedstock is introduced into a cleaning retort; hydrogen gas is introduced into the cleaning retort, HF gas is generated by a reaction of the feedstock with hydrogen gas at a sufficient temperature. In an exemplary method, only HF gas generated in-situ or reconstituted in-situ is utilized in the cleaning process. |
| US08206487B2 |
Method for producing carbon composite metal oxide briquettes
A method for producing carbon composite metal oxide briquettes includes a mixing step of adding a binder to a metal oxide raw material and a carbonaceous material and mixing the metal oxide raw material, the carbonaceous material, and the binder by a mixer to prepare a powder mixture, and a forming step of forming the powder mixture into carbon composite metal oxide briquettes by using a briquetting machine, in which, in the mixing step, a batch mixer is used as the mixer. |
| US08206484B2 |
Process for producing micron and submicron fibers and nonwoven webs by melt blowing
This invention is a method for fabricating fibers by melt-blowing a melt of a molecularly self-assembling material, the melt being at a temperature of from 130° C. to 220° C., thereby forming a fiber set having a distribution of fiber diameters wherein at least 95% of the fibers have a diameter of less than about 3 microns. The invention further comprises collecting the fiber set so as to form a fibrous non-woven web. |
| US08206475B2 |
Entrainment air flow control and filtration devices
Ejector devices and systems are provided, that entrain ambient air within a primary stream of pressurized air, for use in a variety of applications including aircraft, buildings and other stationary structures. The ejector draws ambient air through an air treatment means such as a filter before its entrainment within the primary stream. The combined streams are then delivered to a ventilation system, an air curtain or other suitable recipient of treated, thermally conditioned air. The systems include diffusers, air curtain systems and variable air volume ventilation systems for aircraft and other vehicles. |
| US08206470B1 |
Combustion emission-reducing method
In one embodiment, a fluid mixture composition is used at least in part as a fuel for engine-powered transportation vehicles, the mixture comprising an initial concentration of an ammonia-like reductant component and an initial concentration of an ammonia-like carrier component. The mixture may also include an optional third hydrocarbon component, e.g., gasoline or diesel fuel, with modified properties when compared to conventional gasolines or diesel fuels. The mixture is separated into a first and a second stream, with the majority of the first stream being used as a fuel for the engine and at least a first portion of the second stream being injected into the engine exhaust gases to reduce NOx emissions. A second portion of the second stream is aspirated into the engine and a lean air/fuel ratio may be used to improve fuel efficiency. |
| US08206466B2 |
Method for manufacturing electrolytic capacitor
Electrode lead terminals in a number not less than three are attached to a cathode foil and an anode foil. The electrode lead terminals include at least one cathode lead terminal attached to the cathode foil and at least one anode lead terminal attached to the anode foil. A winding core having an axis is prepared. The cathode foil and the anode foil are wound around the winding core, being overlapped each other. A cross section of the winding core perpendicular to the axis includes an outer edge having a portion along each side of a polygon with the above number of sides. Thereby, a method for manufacturing an electrolytic capacitor capable of suppressing displacement of a lead terminal can be provided. |
| US08206460B2 |
Security system
Described herein are one or more implementations of a security system for one or more protected devices. The security system implements an authentication system that enables protected devices. Protected devices are enabled for a particular network, and are disabled when the protected devices leave the network. |
| US08206459B1 |
Prosthetic-to-liner attachment mechanism
A prosthetic assembly for a residual limb that includes a sleeve for attachment to a distal portion of the residual limb, where the attachment member has a diametrically oriented magnetic field, and a prosthesis with a socket for receiving the sleeve, where the prosthesis socket has a distal end with an attachment member having a corresponding diametrically oriented magnetic field. The diametrically oriented magnetic fields of the sleeve and prosthetic attachment members may be oriented on the prosthesis and the residual limb to achieve a predetermined rotational orientation between the prosthesis and the residual limb and will facilitate removal of the prosthesis with a twisting action. |
| US08206448B2 |
Injection of fibrin sealant using reconstituted components in spinal applications
A method of treating a disc that is leaking nucleus pulposus through at least one defect in the annulus fibrosus. The method includes injecting a fibrin sealant into the disc to reduce at least a portion of the at least one defect, wherein the fibrin sealant injected into the disc comprises fibrinogen and an activating compound, wherein at least a portion of the fibrin forms after injection, wherein the fibrinogen, the activating compound or both has been reconstituted with a solution containing at least one additive, with the proviso that a corticosteroid is absent from the fibrin sealant injected into the disc. |
| US08206441B2 |
Corneal endothelial tissue inserter
A device transfers donor endothelial cells to the cornea of a recipient without injuring the cells or the cornea during the transfer process. The device transfers living endothelial cells from a donor to a recipient with minimal or no trauma. The device includes a handle, an irrigation tube lengthwise within the handle, a button upon the handle concentric with the irrigation tube, a tapered nose opposite the button, a forward tube extending outwardly from the nose, and a platform joined to the irrigation tube. The forward tube has an elliptical cross section and two beveled features. The platform has two wings that curl gently around donor tissue upon retracting the platform into the forward tube. The handle has a groove for a stem of a knob that surgeon presses and pulls to move the platform. |
| US08206439B2 |
Internal prosthesis for reconstruction of cardiac geometry
Unique semi-circular papillary muscle and annulus bands are described that are useful for modifying the alignment of papillary muscles, a mitral valve annulus and/or a tricuspid valve annulus. Methods to effect the alignment are also described and an unique sizing device that can be used for such alignment is described. |
| US08206434B2 |
Stent with sinusoidal wave form and orthogonal end and method for making same
A stent includes a wave form that includes a plurality of struts and a plurality of crowns. The wave form is wrapped around a longitudinal axis so as to define a plurality of turns, including a first turn disposed at a first angle and a second turn disposed at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis. A first connection connects an end of the wave form that started the first turn to an adjacent crown of the wave form that completed the first turn, a second connection connects a first crown of the second turn to an adjacent crown that completed the second turn, and a third connection connects a crown of the first turn to an adjacent crown of the second turn. The wave form is disrupted between the first turn and the second turn. |
| US08206428B2 |
Tabbed stent with minimum compressed profile
A structure and method associated with a tabbed stent that facilitates folding of its unconnected crowns over the adjacent connected crowns, to thus minimize the stent's compressed diameter. The middles of tabs and connected crowns are moved radially inwards with respect to unconnected neighbor crowns such that when in a compressed configuration the unconnected neighbor crowns overlap the connected crowns. The tabs of tabbed stent facilitate folding of the unconnected neighbor crowns over the connected crowns connected to the tabs. In this manner, the compressed profile of the tabbed stent and the crossing profile of the catheter containing the tabbed stent is minimized. |
| US08206427B1 |
Apparatus and methods for endoluminal graft placement
A vascular graft comprises a perforate tubular compressible frame having a fabric liner disposed over at least a portion of the frames lumen. The graft may be used in combination with a base structure to form a bifurcated graft in situ. The base structure compresses a compressible frame having a fabric liner which defines a pair of divergent legs. The base structure is positioned within the aorta so that one leg enters each iliac. The tubular grafts can then be introduced into each leg to form the bifurcated structure. A graft delivery catheter includes a controllably flared sheath which facilitates recapture of a partially deployed graft. |
| US08206421B2 |
Methods and devices for insertion of tethers through subcutaneous screw heads
A method of securing vertebrae includes inserting a first pedicle screw into a first pedicle of a first vertebra. The first pedicle screw includes a first channel running perpendicular to a first central axis of the first pedicle screw. The first pedicle screw has a first engagement structure. The method further includes inserting a second pedicle screw into a second pedicle of a second vertebra. The second pedicle screw includes a second channel running perpendicular to a second central axis of the second pedicle screw. The second pedicle screw has a second engagement structure. The method also includes inserting a guidewire through the first and second channels, threading a tether attached to an end of the guidewire through the first and second channels, securing the tether to the first pedicle screw, applying tension to the tether, and securing the tether to the second pedicle screw. |
| US08206417B2 |
Apparatus and methods for optimizing anchoring force
Apparatus and methods for optimizing anchoring force are described herein. In securing tissue folds, over-compression of the tissue directly underlying the anchors is avoided by utilizing tissue anchors having expandable arms configured to minimize contact area between the anchor and tissue. When the anchor is in its expanded configuration, a load is applied to the anchor until it is optimally configured to accommodate a range of deflections while the anchor itself exerts a substantially constant force against the tissue. Various devices, e.g., stops, spring members, fuses, strain gauges, etc., can be used to indicate when the anchor has been deflected to a predetermined level within the optimal range. Moreover, other factors to affect the anchor characteristics include, e.g., varying the number of arms or struts of the anchor, positioning of the arms, configuration of the arms, the length of the collars, etc. |
| US08206416B2 |
Inflatable device for enteric fistula treatment
Disclosed herein is an implantable fistula closure device. The device may include an expandable longitudinally segmented body including a proximal end and a distal end. The segmented body may further include a plurality of porous bodies and a connecting member operably joining together the plurality of porous bodies. The plurality of porous bodies includes a first porous body with a proximal end and a distal end and a second porous body with a proximal end and a distal end, and the connecting member operably connects the proximal end of the first porous body with the distal end of the second porous body. |
| US08206415B2 |
Arterial hole closure apparatus
A vascular closure device used in closing openings in vessel walls while permitting post-operative flow through the vessel includes a housing, at least two tissue engaging members, and at least two jaw members. The tissue engaging members engage tissue portions on opposite sides of the vessel opening and move tissue to a desired, predetermined position. The jaw members are adapted, in an open position, for positioning about the tissue portions in the predetermined position, and in a closed position, to at least partially draw the tissue together to an at least partially approximated condition. An attachment member is associated with at least one of the jaw members and arranged to contact the tissue. In one embodiment, the attachment member is adapted for connection to an energy source whereby energy is transmitted through the attachment member to thermally fuse the tissue engaged by the jaw members to substantially close the opening. |
| US08206413B2 |
Chemically based vascular occlusion device deployment
A vascular occlusion device deployment system for placing an occlusion device at a preselected site within the vasculature of a patient. The deployment system employing a pusher having a lumen with an opening at the distal end of the pusher. A vascular occlusion device is connected to the distal end of the pusher by a portion that is removeably disposed within the opening. The portion of the occlusion device is forced out of the opening by an expandable reaction chamber, thereby deploying the occlusion device. |
| US08206409B2 |
Surgical device for the collection of soft tissue
A biopsy device comprises a handpiece, a fluid collection system, and a power transmission source. The handpiece is configured for grasping by a single hand, and is independently manipulatable by hand for movement of the instrument toward and away from the patient. An elongated piercer extends from the distal end of the handpiece. The piercer has a sharpened distal end for entering the tissue and a port located proximal to the sharpened distal end for receiving a portion of tissue mass. An elongated cutter is disposed coaxially relative to a piercer lumen of the piercer. A distal blade of the cutter slides distally past the port of the piercer to sever the tissue portion drawn into the port by vacuum. The handpiece further comprises a holster for detachably connecting a cutter rotational transmission and a cutter axial transmission to the power transmission source. |
| US08206408B2 |
Surgical instrument with a shaft having a sliding part
A surgical instrument having a shaft with a fixed handle part having a sliding part arranged thereon, and axially movable by means of a pivotable handle. The sliding part is guided on the shaft within an axial working stroke by proximal and distal guidance mechanism. A locking mechanism limit the axial displacement of the sliding part on the proximal end of the working stroke. In use, after unlocking the locking mechanism. the sliding part is movable beyond the proximal end of the working stroke into a cleaning position, in which the distal guidance mechanism are disengaged, so that the sliding part can be lifted away from the shaft. |
| US08206407B2 |
Medical procedure tool
A medical procedure tool equipped with: a flexible linear material for carrying out a specific procedure to a biological tissue; a linear material holding member provided covering the linear material in a freely advancing and retracting manner, for holding the linear material; a flexible first sheath provided so as to come into contact with the base end side of the linear material holding member; a flexible second sheath provided so as to be freely advancing and retracting with respect to the first sheath and the linear material holding member; an operator for advancing and retracting manipulation of the second sheath; and a cutting means for cutting the linear material; wherein the cutting means is provided with a first cutting part provided to the linear material holding member; and a second cutting part that is provided to the front end of the second sheath and which, together with the first cutting part, grips the linear material there between; and one of either the first cutting part or the second cutting part is a blade member. |
| US08206406B2 |
Disposable sterile surgical adaptor
A sterile adaptor, a sterile drape with the integrated sterile adaptor, and a telerobotic surgical system including the sterile drape are provided. The adaptor, drape, and system allow for draping portions of a telerobotic surgical system to maintain a sterile barrier between the sterile surgical field and the non-sterile robotic system while also providing an interface for transferring mechanical and electrical energy and signals between a robotic arm and a surgical instrument in the sterile field. |
| US08206401B2 |
Endoscope cutting and retrieving snare instrument
An endoscopic cutting and retrieval instrument includes an elongate electrically conductive wire and an inner loop and an outer loop both connected to a distal end of the wire. The inner loop and the outer loop have a common proximal loop portion and different distal loop portions. The distal loop portion of the outer loop is longer than the distal loop portion of the inner loop so that the outer loop is larger than the inner loop. A net attached to the outer loop forms a retrieval basket for capturing severed polyps and other tissues masses. |
| US08206391B2 |
Expandable blade device for stabilizing compression fractures
A medical device and method of using the device to reinforce and stabilize a compressed tissue is disclosed. The medical device is inserted into the tissue, typically a vertebral bone, cuts the tissue inside, and then a binding cement is injected into the pulped tissue without removing the tissue. The medical device is designed to disrupt and pulp the tissue without exerting a compressive force against the walls by using thin blades that buckle away from the core, and by rotating the blades while expanding/contracting the blades at the same time. |
| US08206389B2 |
Rod-based system for bone fixation
A method of bone fixation. A guide device may be disposed such that a first portion of the guide device is disposed longitudinally in a medullary canal of a bone and such that a second portion of the guide device is disposed outside the bone and defines a transverse path across the bone and intersecting the medullary canal. A transverse hole may be formed in the bone along the transverse path, and a fastener may be disposed in the transverse hole. A rod may be placed longitudinally in the medullary canal such that a threaded portion of the rod enters an aperture of the fastener and engages the fastener at the aperture to lock the rod to the fastener. The first portion of the guide device may be removed from the medullary canal after the step of forming a transverse hole and before the step of placing a rod. |
| US08206386B2 |
Methods and devices for removing omental tissue
The invention relates to a method of treating obesity, insulin resistance and co-morbidities of these conditions by removing tissue from the abdomen. More specifically, it relates to a method of removing abdominal fat and omentum to which the fat is attached, in order to improve health. The invention includes a device for safely removing this tissue material. |
| US08206384B2 |
Electrophysiology catheter for mapping and/or ablation
The present invention encompasses apparatus and methods for mapping electrical activity within the heart. The present invention also encompasses methods and apparatus for creating lesions in the heart tissue (ablating) to create a region of necrotic tissue which serves to disable the propagation of errant electrical impulses caused by an arrhythmia. |
| US08206374B2 |
Catheter having improved traceability
Embodiments hereof relate to a catheter having a metal hypotube proximal shaft and a radio frequency identification (RFID) integrated circuit electrically connected to the metal hypotube such that the metal hypotube operates as an antenna for transmitting and receiving modulated RF signals between the RFID integrated circuit and an external receiver configured to read the electronic identification information carried by the RFID integrated circuit. The hypotube and RFID integrated circuit are embedded in a luer hub of the catheter. The RFID integrated circuit contains electronic identification information such as model/serial number, manufacturing information and other summary information for improving traceability of the catheter and removing paper work associated with product tracking. |
| US08206373B2 |
Medical device including braid with coated portion
Alternative design, material, manufacturing method, and use for medical devices, such as catheters, catheter shafts and the like. An example includes a medical device, such as a catheter shaft, including an elongated tubular braid comprising a plurality of filaments and including an end portion coated with a first polymeric material having a first melting point temperature, wherein the first polymeric material attaches the braid filaments together. A second polymeric material having a second melting temperature lower than the first melting point temperature may be attached to the coated end portion of the braid. In some embodiments, the underlying a first polymeric material may reduce the tendency of the braid to flair into the second polymeric material. Other examples relate to methods of making such medical devices, such as a catheter shaft, of the like. |
| US08206372B2 |
Catheter with spiral cut transition member
A tubular transition member having an annular wall with at least one cut extending through the annular wall is disclosed for controlling a transition in stiffness of a catheter from a stiffer more pushable proximal section to a more flexible and trackable distal section and increasing kink resistance. The transition member may extend across the junction formed between the stiffer proximal section and the more flexible distal section. The transition member may be used in conjunction with any type of catheter including single-operator-exchange type catheters, over-the wire type catheters, and/or fixed-wire type catheters. |
| US08206371B2 |
Methods and apparatus for inserting multi-lumen split-tip catheters into a blood vessel
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for inserting flexible, multi-lumen catheters into blood vessels, and in particular, for inserting flexible, split-tip catheters into blood vessels. The invention accomplishes these objects by temporarily stiffening each catheter lumen and tip independently through use of intra-catheter stiffener elements disposed within the catheter lumens. This provides means for advancing the catheter/stiffeners assembly through a subcutaneous tunnel, and over a plurality of guidewires until a distal tip of the catheter is at a desired position within the vessel. The intra-catheter stiffener elements are sufficiently stiffening to allow advancing the catheter over guidewires, but sufficiently flexible to allow bending and looping of the catheter for proper placement within the vessel. |
| US08206370B2 |
Dual lumen guidewire support catheter
A dual lumen guidewire support catheter for accurately crossing a chronic total occlusion in a vessel is disclosed. The dual lumen guidewire support catheter includes a first lumen portion and a second lumen portion sharing a common side and a common distal end. The first lumen portion can be a rapid exchange or over-the-wire portion, while the second lumen portion is an over the wire portion. One or both of the portions can include a discontinuity to enable removal of a guidewire following placement through or at an occlusion or lesion. |
| US08206368B2 |
Multi-chamber mixture dispensing system
Disclosed is a dispensing system a dispenser having a first chamber containing a first material and a second chamber containing a second material. The dispenser is configured to selectively retract one of the chambers at least partially within the other to transition the dispenser between an extended position and a compact position. The first chamber includes an open top end that is, before use, covered with a first breakable membrane. A breaker ring, at least initially covered with a second breakable membrane, is configured to break the breakable membranes when the dispenser is transitioned between an extended position and a compact position. In the compact position, with the membranes broken, the first material and second material are free to form a mixture that can be dispensed via an opening in the dispenser's openable tip. |
| US08206367B2 |
Medical fluid transfer devices and methods with enclosures of sterilized gas
In certain embodiments, a vial adaptor for removing liquid contents from a vial comprises a piercing member and a bag. The bag can be contained within the piercing member such that the bag is introduced to the vial when the vial adaptor is coupled with the vial. In some embodiments, the bag expands within the vial as liquid is removed from the vial via the adaptor, thereby regulating pressure within the vial. In other embodiments, a vial comprises a bag for regulating pressure within the vial as liquid is removed therefrom. In some embodiments, a vial adaptor is coupled with the vial in order to remove the liquid. In some embodiments, as the liquid is removed from the vial via the adaptor, the bag expands within the vial, and in other embodiments, the bag contracts within the vial. |
| US08206366B2 |
Convertible diaper/pant with ease of application
A pant-like, prefastened, disposable absorbent article having two leg openings which are directly below and visible through a waist opening. The waist opening has a relaxed waist opening measurement or relaxed waist diameter that is greater than a width of a chassis of the absorbent article in a crotch region. As such, the wearer's legs are positioned within and through the leg openings for easy application of the pant-like prefastened, disposable absorbent article. After initial application of the absorbent article, a waist size adjustment feature allows the waist perimeter dimension to be adjusted to conform the waist opening to the waist of the wearer. |
| US08206365B2 |
Pant-type absorbent article and a method for its manufacture
A pant-type absorbent article, at least one of the front and back panels having an elastic web material constituting the sole component of at least part of the front and/or back panels, the elastic waistband being joined to the waist edge of at least one of the front and back panels, wherein the elastic waistband having a first and a second ply of substantially non-elastic web material enclosing between them at least one elongate elastic member, the first ply of substantially non-elastic web material being secured to one side of the elastic web material at the waist edge of at least one of the front and back panels and that the second ply of substantially non-elastic web material is secured to the opposite side of the elastic web material just opposite said first ply. |
| US08206363B2 |
Medical sleeve
The invention provides a device adapted to assist the sterilization of a limb surface, comprising a flexible tubular sleeve, closed at one end, shaped and sized so as to loosely fit, in use, around the limb of a patient whose limb surface is to be sterilized. The sleeve bas limb-sealing means, located close to or at each end of the sleeve, and each capable of forming, in use, a seal between the sleeve and the limb of a patient. The device is particularly suitable to assist in de-contamination of limbs prior to surgery thereon. |
| US08206359B1 |
Introducer sheath with adhesive attachment means and a rotating side tube
The present invention is an introducer sheath that is improved by having an adhesive pad located near the sheath's proximal end that detachably attaches the introducer sheath to the patient's skin without requiring any additional parts that come from a separate sterile package such as a needle and a suture or a separate adhesive pad. The present invention also teaches a means to rotatingly connect the adhesive pad to the sheath's hemostasis valve so that the proximal portion of the hemostasis valve is free to rotate about the adhesive pad even after the adhesive pad is firmly attached to the patient's skin. This design allows the operator to position the side tube that is connected to the hemostasis valve at an optimum location relative to the patient's skin. |
| US08206358B2 |
Ring and seal for trocar
A surgical access apparatus for passing through tissue to an underlying surgical area includes an access member defining a longitudinal axis and having a longitudinal channel for reception of a surgical object, a seal member mounted to the access member and positioned to intersect the longitudinal channel, and having internal seal surfaces defining a passage and being dimensioned to establish a substantial sealing relation with a surgical object inserted therethrough and a substantially annular element mounted to the seal member and at least partially circumscribing the passage. The annular member is rigid relative to the seal member and defines an opening to permit passage of the object. The annular element is dimensioned to minimize offset manipulation of the surgical object relative to the longitudinal axis. |
| US08206355B2 |
Medical needle safety shield apparatus with an anti-rotation member
A medical needle shield apparatus having an anti-rotation component prevents the medical needle from rotating relative to a safety shield. |
| US08206353B2 |
Reservoir barrier layer systems and methods
A system for delivering fluidic media may include a reservoir disposed within a housing, the reservoir having at least one wall bordering an interior volume for containing fluidic media, the wall being made of a material comprising a cyclic olefin copolymer, the wall for substantially preventing light from passing through the material of the wall. Fluidic media contained in the interior volume may be expelled through a fluid conduit. |
| US08206351B2 |
Administration apparatus for medical use
An expansion/compression mechanism of a piston rod assembly is composed of a bush shaft, a first cylindrical piston rod that is screwed with the bush shaft, a second cylindrical piston rod that is screwed with the first piston rod, and a piston rod holding member for housing the bush shaft and these piston rods. Therefore, the piston rods move linearly in multiple stages. |
| US08206350B2 |
External infusion device with remote programming, bolus estimator and/or vibration alarm capabilities
An infusion system for infusing a liquid into a body includes an external infusion device and a remote commander. The external infusion device includes a housing, a receiver, a processor and an indication device. The receiver is coupled to the housing and for receiving remotely generated commands. The processor is coupled to the housing and the receiver to receive remotely generated commands and to control the external infusion device in accordance with the commands. The indication device indicates when a command has been received and indicates when the command is being utilized to control the external infusion device so that the external infusion device is capable of being concealed from view when being remotely commanded. The remote commander includes a commander housing, a keypad for transmitting commands, and a transmitter for transmitting commands to the receiver of the external infusion device. |
| US08206349B2 |
Systems and methods for biofilm removal, including a biofilm removal endoscope for use therewith
Systems and methods of removing bacterial biofilm from a target site using a biofilm removal endoscope. The endoscope has an insertion portion including an imaging channel terminating at a viewing window and an irrigation channel terminating at a nozzle. The imaging and irrigation channels are permanently affixed relative to one another. The insertion portion is inserted into the patient, with a working end thereof being disposed proximate the target site. The target site is imaged and a flow of fluid is dispensed via the nozzle to mechanically remove bacterial biofilm from the target site. |
| US08206340B2 |
Integrated glucose monitor and insulin injection pen with automatic emergency notification
A portable insulin injection pen and blood glucose monitoring device is integrated into a single unit for testing and treating diabetes symptoms. The device has a housing of a size suitable for transport in a user's clothing pocket or handbag. Within the housing is a blood glucose monitoring system for receiving a sample of the user's blood and detecting its glucose level, an insulin injection mechanism for administering an insulin injection, and a microprocessor that calculates an insulin dosage appropriate to the detected blood glucose level and sets the insulin injection mechanism to administer the calculated insulin dosage. A communication device automatically informs a remote emergency service provider, such as 911 or an emergency service to which the user has subscribed, if the microprocessor determines that the detected blood glucose level presents a potential danger to the user. The microprocessor also calculates treatment regimens specific to a particular user based on the detected blood glucose level and displays the treatment regimens on an LCD display. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, a GPS receiver within the housing detects the location of the device, and the communication device, which can be a cellular telephone separate from the housing connected wirelessly to the unit via a Bluetooth connection or cellular telephone circuitry within the housing itself, transmits information regarding the location to the remote emergency service. |
| US08206338B2 |
Pumping systems for cassette-based dialysis
A peritoneal dialysis system includes a dialysis machine including a pump chamber and a pump actuator moveable within the pump chamber; a pumping cassette including a rigid portion defining a pump well and a flexible membrane covering the pump well; and wherein the dialysis machine is configured to be mated with the pumping cassette so as to hold a vacuum between the pump chamber and the flexible membrane, the vacuum operable to cause the flexible membrane to follow the pump actuator as the actuator is retracted from the pump well of the rigid portion, the pump actuator operable to cause the flexible membrane to move into the pump well as the actuator is moved into the pump well. |
| US08206330B2 |
Device, system, and method for controllably reducing inflammatory mediators in a subject
Devices, systems, and methods are provided for controlling an inflammatory response in a subject. Extracorporeal devices, systems, and methods are provided that alter the functional structure of one or more inflammatory mediators in the peripheral blood of the subject. The device or system is useful in a method for treating an inflammatory disease or condition in the subject. |
| US08206327B2 |
Head massager and distance adjustment device thereof
A head massager includes a helmet (10) having a first parallel hoop (11) and a second parallel hoop (12) connected to each other for forming a ring surrounding the user's head. The helmet (10) has a first meridian hoop (21) and a second meridian hoop (22) connected to each other to form an arc structure and hang the head massager on user's head. The distance adjustment devices (3) are provided to connect the first parallel hoop (11), the second parallel hoop (12), the first meridian hoop (21), and the second meridian hoop (22) together for adjusting the size of the helmet (10) to provide a comfortable fit to user's head. |
| US08206319B2 |
Tissue penetration device
A moving coil tissue penetration device includes a magnetic source that produces a magnetic field in a magnetically active region. A cylindrical coil is secured to a translation substrate and disposed at least partially within the magnetically active region. A sharpened member is configured to penetrate tissue and mechanically coupled to the translation substrate. |
| US08206315B2 |
Real-time pathology
A system for detecting abnormal tissue in a patient including an introducer cannula having a proximal opening and a distal opening. The system further includes a surgical instrument configured for selective insertion through the cannula. The surgical instrument further includes a tissue cutting opening positioned relative to the distal end of the introducer cannula when fully inserted through the introducer cannula. The system also includes a sensor configured to detect at least one property of the tissue of the patient. The sensor is located at a fixed distance relative to the distal end of the introducer cannula when the surgical instrument is inserted into the introducer cannula. |
| US08206313B2 |
Method of determining the sympathetic tone and system for measurement thereof
A method of determining the sympathetic tone, a system for applying and measuring a stimulation, and the use of a system for applying and measuring a stimulation for determining the sympathetic tone are provided. The method of determining the sympathetic tone includes the steps of: measuring an applied stimulation at a threshold value of the stimulation in one or more sympathetic tone-neutral points and measuring an applied stimulation at the same threshold value in one or more sympathetic tone-dependent points. The use of a system for applying and measuring a stimulation for determining the sympathetic tone includes the steps of: measuring an applied stimulation at a threshold value of the stimulation at one or more sympathetic tone-neutral points and measuring an applied stimulation at the same threshold value of the stimulation at one or more sympathetic tone-dependent points. |
| US08206311B2 |
Analyzer for nitric oxide in exhaled breath with multiple-use sensor
A high-sensitivity analyzer for nitric oxide in exhaled breath at levels of 200 ppb or less with a sensor containing cytochrome C is rendered capable of multiple uses without the need for installing a new sensor for each use. This capability is achieved by regenerating the analyzer after each use by purging the sensor and surrounding regions with NOx-free air in a controlled manner, preferably in pulses separated by equilibration periods. |
| US08206309B2 |
Blood pressure monitoring apparatus and method
The blood pressure monitoring apparatus and method are disclosed that can monitor a blood pressure of a subject using an electrocardiogram signal, a pulse wave signal and a body characteristic information of the subject, wherein the electrocardiogram signal and the pulse wave signal of the subject are monitored to remove a noise signal generated from monitoring of the pulse wave signal, allowing monitoring a precise blood pressure of the subject, and calculating the pulse wave analysis information using the monitored pulse wave signal, and using the electrocardiogram signal and the pulse wave signal to calculate a pulse transit time (PPT), and plugging a calculated pulse wave propagation time, pulse wave analysis information and body characteristic information of the subject into a predetermined regression equation to monitor the blood pressure. |
| US08206307B2 |
Ultrasound imaging probe and method
An ultrasound probe is provided having an ultrasound module received in a housing thereof, the ultrasound module including a plurality of transducers longitudinally spaced apart within the housing and a control and processing system electrically coupled to the transducers for collecting ultrasonic data representative of a target biological tissue when the ultrasound probe is in operation. A motor is likewise received in the housing to rotate, oscillate and/or translate the ultrasound module in a data collection mode. Coupling fluid is received in the housing to at least partially surround the ultrasound module and the motor. A method of obtaining ultrasonic data representative of a target biological tissue, such as a bladder, for diagnostic purposes is also provided. |
| US08206305B2 |
Multi-twisted acoustic array for medical ultrasound
Multiple twisted or rotated arrays are provided. For example, a memory alloy may allow manufacture of multiple rows of elements on a flat substrate. The memory of the alloy is activated to twist different rows in different ways, such as two adjacent substantially parallel but oppositely rotated arrays. By selecting different apertures along a given twist, different planes are scanned due to the difference in direction of the elements of the aperture. By selecting different apertures on differently rotated arrays, a larger volume may be scanned. |
| US08206301B2 |
Ultrasonic imaging apparatus and ultrasonic image processing apparatus, method and program
An ultrasonic image processing apparatus capable of analyzing speckle information contained in the entire ultrasonic image and displaying the analysis results as a moving image. The ultrasonic image processing apparatus is an apparatus for processing reception signals, which are obtained by transmitting ultrasonic waves toward an object to be inspected and receiving ultrasonic echoes from the object, to generate ultrasonic image data, and the apparatus includes: a speckle image generating unit for generating speckle image data representing a speckle image based on original data generated by performing signal processing on the reception signals and representing ultrasonic image information on the object; and a speckle image analysis unit for performing analysis of the speckle images represented by the speckle image data generated by the speckle image generating unit to generate speckle analysis result image data representing analysis results as a moving image. |
| US08206294B2 |
Surgical access device with flexible seal channel
A surgical access device is provided that includes a housing having at least one access port therein for receiving a surgical instrument therethrough, and at least one elongate flexible instrument channel extending from the housing and having a lumen extending therethrough and in fluid communication with the at least one access port in the housing. The instrument channel is adapted to move from a first collapsed configuration in which the channel is sealed to substantially prevent fluid from flowing therethrough to a second expanded configuration upon insertion of an instrument therethrough. |
| US08206292B2 |
Working channel for minimally invasive spine surgery
A working channel for separating paraspinal muscles and minimizing muscle trauma during spinal surgery includes a flared upper section having a distal end, a proximal end and an interior lumen traversing through the flared upper section. The proximal end of the flared upper section having a larger cross-sectional area than the distal end of the flared upper section. A lower elongate body section extends fixedly from the distal end of the flared upper section. The lower elongate body section has a distal end for inserting into a patient, a proximal end connected to the flared upper section and an interior lumen traversing through the lower section. The flared upper section and the lower elongate body section each have an inner surface and an outer surface. A thickness between the inner and outer surfaces of the lower elongate body section is the same at each point along the longitudinal axis. |
| US08206290B2 |
Medical inspection device
An improved medical inspection device at least comprises a hand-held portion, a display portion being connected with the hand-held portion and comprising a first printing circuit board, an image display module, an annular protuberance and at least one electrode contact, an inspection module comprising a joint portion, an inspection portion and a third printing circuit board, wherein the joint portion has a second printing circuit board provided at an inner surface thereof, and the inspection portion further comprises a lens, an image sensing unit and a light source, and a fastening ring that is detachably fastened with the annular protuberance of the display portion so as to firmly fasten the joint portion of the inspection module to the display portion. |
| US08206285B2 |
Apparatus, system and method to indicate in-vivo device location
A system, apparatus and method may indicate in-vivo device (10) location within a body utilizing for example illumination irregularities for calculation of location. There may be provided with an in-vivo imaging device (24) a set of dedicated illumination sources (43) and a set of detectors (30) located on an in-vivo device, such as a swallowable capsule (10). |
| US08206280B2 |
Adjustable tissue support member
The present disclosure relates to implants having two arms and a support portion configured to support a body tissue, such as a urethra. The implants are anchored in soft tissue with tissue anchors having a plurality of barbs. The tissue anchors contain an aperture through which a portion of arm is maintained. A locking member is disposed within at least one of the arms to facilitate fixation of the arm to at least one of the anchors. |
| US08206277B2 |
Idler roller assembly having a roller and a shaft the roller being formed such that it remains parallel to contacted media despite deflection of the shaft
An apparatus and method support rollers with a shaft along an axis absent of deflection of the shaft. Under load, the shaft deflects and the rollers reorient themselves along the shaft such that outer circumferential surfaces of the rollers are substantially parallel to the undeflected axis. |
| US08206276B2 |
Machine tool
A machine tool includes a headstock provided with a main spindle and movable in a direction different from a direction of axis of the main spindle, a tool post mounted on the headstock so as to be movable in the direction of axis of the main spindle, and a tool change unit configured to change a tool attached to the main spindle with another tool after an extremity of the main spindle has been moved to a predetermined tool change position. In this machine tool, when an extremity of the tool post is positioned in the tool change position by the movement of the headstock and also by the movement of the tool post, the tool change unit performs change of a tool attached to the tool post with another tool by the same tool change operation as that for the main spindle. |
| US08206274B2 |
Dumbbell
A dumbbell has an optional number of weight discs which stand on end in a stand, and a handle with anchorages. The anchorages and the weight discs have connecting structures which, in the axial direction, interconnect the anchorages with a neighboring weigh disc or neighboring weight discs, respectively. On the other hand, the connecting structures permit movement transversely of the axial direction. The weight discs display locking structures, which, in the activated state in directions transversely of the axial direction, prevent mutual movements between the weight discs and the anchorages. The locking structures have locking bodies which are movable so that their directions of movement have an axial component and which are disposed at the peripheral regions of the weight discs, and also are insertable in corresponding recesses in a neighboring weight disc or an anchorage. The locking bodies are operable by an operating arrangement located inside the peripheral contour of the weight discs. |
| US08206273B2 |
Apparatus and method for temporary mounting of a hangboard
An assembly for mounting of a hangboard includes first and second brackets each having first and second opposing end regions and a first elongate member having first and second spaced apart connection points configured for attachment to the first end regions of the first and second brackets. A second elongate member has third and fourth spaced apart connection points configured for simultaneous attachment to the first and second brackets. The second elongate member has a third connection point configured for attachment at a point along a portion of the first bracket between the first and second end regions thereof; and the fourth connection point configured for attachment at a point along a portion of the second bracket between the first and second end regions thereof. When the first and second members are so attached the assembly can be suspended within a wall opening. |
| US08206263B2 |
Traction control system for vehicle
In order to attain a stable traction control regardless of an inertia change in a driving system, when a driving force transmitted from driving wheels to a road surface is lowered by a certain quantity by torque control, the driving force is lowered according to a transmission torque capacity of a clutch element for connecting and disconnecting a power source and the driving wheels. |
| US08206260B2 |
Toroidal continuously variable transmission unit
In a toroidal continuously variable transmission unit, a pair of guide surface portions 120, 120 are provided on a trunnion 15 so as to face oppositely each other and to extend in a direction which intersects a rotational center axis of a power roller 11 at right angles and intersects pivot shafts 14 at right angles. When a tangential force along a direction of the pivot shafts 14 is applied to the power roller 11, an outer circumferential surface 110 of an outer ring 28 can be brought into abutment with these guide surface portions 120, 120. By this, the toroidal continuously variable transmission unit with good machinability can be obtained in which the power roller together with the outer ring can be rolling guided smoothly relative to the trunnion by an inexpensive and simple construction while avoiding the offsetting of a shaft portion which supports the power roller. |
| US08206259B2 |
Single planet gear rotary actuator
A rotary actuator comprises a rotatable output ring with a generally denticulate inner surface region and an output ring axis of rotation; a pair of stationary rings, each with a generally denticulate inner surface region and a stationary ring axis, each located on a different end of the output ring with the stationary ring axes in general alignment with the output ring axis; a generally cylindrical planet comprising distal outer regions that each have outer surfaces for supporting the planet, a generally denticulate central outer surface region that engages the denticulate inner surface region of the output ring, and generally denticulate intermediate outer surface regions that each engage the denticulate inner surface region of a respective one of the stationary rings, and a planet axis of rotation that is generally parallel to the output ring axis; and a pair of generally cylindrical planet carriers, each having a carrier axis of rotation in general alignment with the output ring axis. |
| US08206255B2 |
Friction wheel actuator
Actuator adapted to cooperate with a drive of an endothermic engine including power source and a releasable accessory, the actuator including a box-shaped casing, a motorized eccentric group housed inside the casing and including a reduction gearing, an arm cooperating with the eccentric group and supporting a friction wheel adapted to cooperate with the accessory and with the power source, the arm being mobile between an engaged position and a disengaged position of the accessory. |
| US08206253B2 |
Method for controlling two variable displacement hydrostatic units in an infinitely variable hydro-mechanical transmission
A method is provided for adjusting the displacement angles of two hydrostatic units in an infinitely variable hydro-mechanical transmission. |
| US08206251B2 |
Double cogged V-belt for variable speed drive
A double-cogged V-belt with the upper and lower cog profiles symmetric and having lines (“L”) and arcs (“A”) connected according to a sequence from the center of a root to the center of an adjacent cog of L1-A1-L2-A2-L3 for the upper profile and L4-A3-L5-A4-L6, and with at least one upper root and one lower root substantially aligned with each other, and with the sum of the length of L1 plus the radius of A1 equal to or within 20% of the sum of the length of L4 plus the radius of A3. The upper and lower pitches may be equal and all the roots aligned, or there may be more upper cogs than lower cogs. Some or all arcs and lines may be connected tangentially. |
| US08206249B1 |
Electronic racquet stringing machine
A tension head for a racquet stringing machine in which roller bearings are used between the outer vice plates and the vice jaws. Also, a pin on one vice jaw extends into a slot in an outer vice plate and in the slot is an adjustable screw which allows override of the compression on string upon contact with the pin. Also a follower is mounted on the lead screw and steadied by a guide bar in order to reduce spurious movement of the snatch vice during operation. |
| US08206246B2 |
System and method for improving a basketball player's shooting
A system and method for improving a player's efficiency in shooting by providing a player with various shooting challenge routines at which a player makes either a total number of shots or a total number shots in a row. Statistics regarding the player's performance are stored, printed and/or evaluated and the player can use the information to improve his or her efficiency at one or more of the plurality of different locations where the player shoots the basketball. |
| US08206244B2 |
Fairway wood type golf club
The present invention is a unique fairway wood type golf club. The club is a fairway wood type golf club characterized by a long blade length with a long heel blade length section, while having a small club moment arm and a low center of gravity relative to a face height of the club, and all the benefits afforded therefrom. The fairway wood incorporates the discovery of unique relationships among key club head engineering variables that are inconsistent with merely striving to obtain a high MOIy using conventional golf club head design wisdom. The resulting fairway wood has a face closing moment of inertia (MOIfc) that provides golfers with a feel similar to that of a modern driver or hybrid golf club. |
| US08206242B2 |
Golf club head with reinforced crown
A golf club head with reinforced crown is described herein. Other embodiments are also disclosed herein. |
| US08206239B2 |
Golf club head with face insert
A golf club head is disclosed. The golf club head has a body member and a face insert formed of different materials. The body material is relatively soft and ductile to allow the club to be customized, and the face insert member is relatively hard and wear resistant to ensure that the face groove geometry remains substantially unaltered through use. |
| US08206236B1 |
Golf tool retention clip
A golf tool retention clip attaches to a brim of a hat and retains the golf tool where the wearer of the hat has ready and easy access to the golf tool during play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip also retains a ball marker for ready and easy access to the ball marker during play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip is inconspicuous to the player and does not interfere with play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip has opposing panels with are coupled together and which side onto the brim of the hat with the golf tool positioned on the upper surface of the brim while the ball marker positioned on the lower surface of the brim. The golf tool has features to perform multiple functions associated with the game of golf. |
| US08206234B1 |
Acrylic putter head
A golf putter head for mounting on a shaft to create a golf putter club wherein the putter head includes a frame fabricated of a metal and having a toe end cap and heel end cap. The end caps are spaced apart one from the other by at least one rib integral with the toe and heel end caps. The rib and end caps partially defining at least one central body void. An elongated central filler segment fills the central body void and a has a top surface a bottom surface. The central filler segment in combination with the frame defines at least one generally vertically oriented planar ball contacting surface. The central filler segment is fabricated of polymer based material and the frame generates a moment of inertia significantly greater than a body excluding the end caps. |
| US08206233B2 |
Wrist positioning athletic device
An apparatus for teaching and practicing the proper positioning of the hands and/or wrists relative to the arms in the performance of an athletic maneuver is disclosed. The apparatus includes a brace to be positioned on the forearm and extend across the wrist and at least partially along the hand. A securing mechanism can be included for selectively attaching the brace to the forearm. A rod extends from the brace and is configured to be gripped by the user while wearing the device. The rod can also receive athletic related devices. The device can be adapted to teach a user the proper positioning of the hands and wrists relative to the arms throughout an athletic maneuver. |
| US08206232B2 |
Amusement apparatus
The amusement apparatus comprising a housing, a frame and an interior space, and a door allowing entry of a player having arms into interior space. An air circulation system fluidly connected to interior space of housing. An engagement system located within interior space. Engagement system, control system, signaling system and an air circulation system are cooperatively interconnected. A player area is located within the interior space and positioned proximate the engagement system wherein contact by player with engagement system initiates a sequence of instructions from the control system to initiate the delivery of air into interior space by air circulation system for circulation of prizes within interior space. A signal to player is sent via signaling system to discontinue player contact with engagement system so player may interact with the prizes circulating in the interior space for the purpose of removing the prizes from the housing via the interior space. |
| US08206227B2 |
Torsional vibration damper comprising a sectional primary element
A torsional vibration damper includes a drive-side primary element having at least one primary dog, an output-side secondary element having at least one secondary dog, and at least one spring device between the primary and secondary dogs for spring-elastic coupling of the primary element to the secondary element and including a plurality of spring elements. A separator sheet includes a ring element. At least one sliding block extends from the ring element between adjacent spring elements and is arranged circumferentially about the spring elements. The primary element has also an inner part having an external toothing, an outer part on which the primary dog is arranged and having an internal toothing engaging into the external toothing, and at least one damping part arranged between the external and internal toothing for vibration damping between the inner and outer parts. |
| US08206222B2 |
Entertainment system for performing human intelligence tasks
A game engine is configured to accept human intelligence tasks as in-game content and present the in-game content to the game player. A method performed by the game engine enables performance of human intelligence tasks, such as visual discrimination, in a video game context. The game engine may receive a definition of human intelligence tasks from one or more remote sources. The game engine may present the human intelligence tasks to multiple video game participants as in-game content. The game engine defines and enables game play rules for the in-game content. The game play rules set parameters for the multiple video game participants to perform the human intelligence tasks to achieve desired results. The game engine may award each of the multiple video game participants an improved game score upon successful performance of the human intelligence tasks in accordance with the game play rules. The game engine may measure success by consistency in responses between different participants or trials. |
| US08206221B2 |
Orientation device and method for coordinate generation employed thereby
A method for coordinate generation to be implemented using an orientation device includes the steps of: providing at least three reference marks on a target; aiming the orientation device at a target point on the target, and operating the orientation device such that the orientation device is able to capture an image of the target that contains the reference marks; assigning absolute coordinates to the reference marks in the image captured by the orientation device; and determining relative coordinates of the target point in a coordinate space of the target with reference to the absolute coordinates assigned to the reference marks. An orientation device that performs the method is also disclosed. |
| US08206216B2 |
Gaming machine with auto-detect feature activation
Systems and methods for operating a gaming machine that automatically detects peripherals and enables or disables features in accordance with the detected peripherals are disclosed. One aspect of the systems and methods is that the peripheral has an identifier associated with it. The identifier may be used to identify the type of peripheral attached to the gaming machine. After determining the type of peripheral, features associated with the peripheral type may be enabled and other features may be disabled. A further aspect includes reading configuration data for the gaming machine. The configuration data may be compared to the peripheral types that are automatically detected by the gaming machine. |
| US08206215B2 |
Gaming machine systems and methods with memory efficient historical video re-creation
The present invention provides employs a multi-phase process that improves historical capture and video playback on gaming machines. The first phase occurs during game creation and production, where video data required for video re-creation and playback is identified for each scene or frame in a game where a designer seeks playback capability. The second phase occurs during game play. Historical game re-creation software on the gaming machine knows what data in each frame is needed for historical video re-creation of the frame, and saves this data. The third phase occurs during re-capture and playback, where the data is recalled from memory to enable video playback at the particular instance of interest. |
| US08206214B2 |
Player roster selection interface
A player roster interface is described. In one example, player roster interface logic includes display logic operable to display a playing region (which may include a graphical representation of a playing field associated with a sport) and player logic operable to display a plurality of players, wherein at least a portion of the players may be displayed within the playing region. The interface logic further includes selection logic operable to determine a player roster based on the position of the players relative to the playing region. Such an interface may allow a user to select and view a player roster (e.g., for a fantasy sports team) by positioning players within the playing region. |
| US08206212B2 |
Server based gaming system having system triggered loyalty award sequences
A gaming system including a central server linked to a plurality of gaming tables. In one embodiment, the gaming system provides players with one or more loyalty incentives, such as one or more loyalty awards, utilizing one or more loyalty incentive award sequences. In one embodiment, the gaming system determines a loyalty award to provide to a player and then determines an appropriate loyalty award sequence to utilize to provide the player the determined loyalty award, wherein the loyalty award sequence is determined based on the individual gaming table at which that the player is currently playing. |
| US08206208B2 |
Method and system for playing a lottery game with enhanced multiplier factor
A system and methodology for conducting a lottery wagering game include receiving a first wager fee from players for entry in a primary game. The players are offered the option to pay a second wager fee for a chance at a first multiplier fact that may increase the prize award for winners of the primary game. The players are also offered the option to pay a third wager fee for a chance at a second multiplier factor that combines with the first multiplier factor in a predetermined for subsequently randomly generated multiplier function to determine a final multiplier factor that is applied to the prize award for winners of the primary game. |
| US08206207B2 |
Method of playing preprinted game tickets having multiple games printed thereof
A method is provided of vending game tickets from a vending machine during a game play session. Each ticket is preprinted with a plurality of individually playable games, and each game has a game result. The games are associated with at least one deal of games that includes at least some games that have predetermined winning game results. One or more games on a ticket are electronically purchased in a current game play session in response to a request inputted into the vending machine from a patron. Less than all of the games on the ticket may be purchased during the current game play session. An indication of which games on the ticket have been purchased is electronically recorded in database records. The vending machine dispenses all tickets that are played, including tickets wherein less than all of the games on the ticket were purchased during the current game play session. The records of the database may be used to verify which of the games on each of the played tickets have been purchased in the game play session. |
| US08206206B2 |
Gaming machine and control method of gaming machine
A gaming machine which determines establishment/non-establishment of a shift condition for shifting a game mode from a normal game mode to a special game mode, shifts to the special game mode based on the determination result, and allows an instruction of A player to be inputted thereto, extracts predetermined number of card data to be used in the special game mode, selects a first and a second card data on the gaming machine side and a player side from among the extracted card data, and determines right/wrong of a designating instruction according to a result of comparison between the card data. Upon win, this gaming machine determines establishment/non-establishment of a winning combination based on the extracted card data, and when a winning combination is established, the machine performs payout corresponding to the established combination. |
| US08206204B2 |
Control unit heat management
A method of cooling an engine control unit (ECU) coupled to an engine in a vehicle having a cabin climate control system, comprising operating the vehicle cabin climate control system according to a customer-based climate control setting during a first operating condition, and overriding said customer-based setting during a second operating condition including an ECU over-temperature condition. |
| US08206202B2 |
Flexible grinding product and method of producing the same
The present invention relates to a flexible grinding product and a method of producing the same. Such a grinding product comprises a flexible underlay (1) which consists of two layers laminated to each other. These comprise a lower base layer (2) and an upper layer (3), a cavity layer. The underlay includes a top surface (5) having at least one adhesive layer (6) arranged thereto after lamination and a layer of grinding agent (7) applied by means of the adhesive layer. The grinding product is characterized in that the layer that is coated with grinding agent includes holes which form cavities (4), whereby the cavities provide space for grinding dust and grinding residues and facilitate their removal from the surface being ground. |
| US08206198B2 |
Wafer grinding machine and wafer grinding method
A wafer grinding machine and a wafer grinding method are disclosed. A barrier (60) is arranged around a holding unit (29) to hold at least a wafer (40) with a film (11) attached on the front surface (41) thereof and with the back surface (42) thereof directed upward. The upper surface (61) of the barrier unit is ground to the position between the back surface of the wafer held by the holding unit and the boundary between the wafer and the film. Then, the wafer is ground while being held with the back surface thereof up by the holding unit. As a result, the film is prevented from coming off from the wafer at the time of grinding the back surface of the wafer. Further, when the wafer is ground, a fluid may be supplied into the gap between the barrier unit and the outer peripheral portion of the wafer held by the holding unit. |
| US08206196B1 |
Garment with wire support
Various embodiments of a garment having a pair of cup sections with a wire member partially encircling each cup region is described herein. In some embodiments, the garment can include a wire member that can be positioned along a partial section of the lower edge of each cup section. Various embodiments of the garment can provide support and containment for breasts of a wearer of the garment. |
| US08206195B2 |
Shooting toy used in game for two or more players
A shooting toy used in a game for two or more players for enabling players to actually sense the thrill of close combat. The toy include an infrared ray signal generating section 25, an infrared ray signal receiving section 31,a damage value determining section 35, a radio signal transmitting section 37, a radio signal receiving section 39, a radio intensity determining section 41, a damage state determining section 49, and a damage state representing section 51. The damage value determining section 35 changes the parameter value depending on the determination result by the radio intensity determining section 41. |
| US08206192B2 |
Boat propulsion engine
A boat propulsion engine includes a buoyant member (20) disposed on a case body that houses a drive shaft (47) in order to lift the stern. The buoyant member has a lower surface (32) that slopes downward in the rearward direction. |
| US08206180B1 |
Connector assemblies and contacts for implantable medical electrical systems
A connector assembly of a medical electrical device includes a plurality of electrical contacts and an insulative base that supports the plurality of electrical contacts and extends between the plurality of electrical contacts and a housing of the device, and, wherein at least one contact of the plurality includes an elongate electrical coupling receptacle in which a first part of a feedthrough member extends, being fixedly coupled thereto. The feedthrough member further includes a second part and a bend, which is located between the first and second parts. The second part of the feedthrough member extends away from the contact and through a port formed in the insulative base adjacent to the contact. |
| US08206175B2 |
Visual indicator of proper interconnection for an implanted medical device
During implant of an implantable medical device, implanted cables or leads are inserted to a connector block. An insertion indicator provides the user with a visual indication the cables or leads have been correctly inserted into the connector block, which enables the implanted medical device to properly deliver treatment or receive signals via the implanted cables or leads. The insertion indicator may be provided by a mechanical indicator optically viewable once the lead has been correctly inserted, and/or may be provided by an electrically activated light indicator illuminated by a power source associated with the connector block or with a connector tool used to connect the lead or cable to the connector block upon correct insertion of the lead or cable. The insertion indicator may be permanently or removably disposed on the connector block, a connector tool, and/or a can associated with the connector block. |
| US08206173B2 |
Connector assembly, display apparatus having the same and method of connecting the same
A connector assembly includes a first connector having a recess disposed in a first side thereof, a second connector disposed in the recess and connected to the first connector, and a lever rotatably connected to the second connector. The lever is rotated toward the first connector by an external force after the second connector is connected to the first connector. The lever is connected to the first connector to fix the second connector in the recess of the first connector. |
| US08206169B2 |
Connector with a threaded actuator and a moisture migration prevention component entirely within a nut component
A cable connection assembly comprising a moisture migration prevention component located entirely within a nut component, and a threaded actuator integrated entirely within the nut component of said assembly, wherein upon attachment of the nut component onto a threaded port, the threaded actuator engages the threaded port, wherein upon an initial actuation of the nut component, the threaded actuator axially advances to a partially engaged position and axially advances the moisture migration prevention component, wherein continued actuation of the nut component further axially advances the threaded actuator to a fully engaged position and compresses the moisture migration prevention component to exhibit moisture migration prevention at a location external to a plurality of threads of the threaded port engaged within said connection assembly is provided. An associated method is also provided. |
| US08206159B2 |
Connector that enables connection between circuit boards with excellent space efficiency
A particular connector is for selectively connecting a first and a second mating connector which are insertable into the particular connector from mutually perpendicular directions, respectively. The particular connector includes a contact and a housing holding the contacts. The contact has a first a second contact portion which are for contacting with the first and the second mating connectors, respectively. The housing includes a first fitting portion provided with a first insertion opening for inserting the first mating connector, a second fitting portion provided with a second insertion opening for inserting the second mating connector, and guide portions which define the first and the second insertion openings, respectively. By the guide portions, the first and the second mating connectors are allowed to be selectively connected to the connector. |
| US08206158B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with pick-up cap
An electrical connector assembly includes an electrical connector and a pick-up cap assembled to the electrical connector. The electrical connector has an insulative housing defining a substantially rectangular cavity in a middle thereof and a plurality of contacts received in the cavity. The pick-up cap includes a main portion with a planar top surface and a plurality of latching arms extending from two opposite edges of the main portion for engaging with the electrical connector. Each latching arm has an engaging arm extending in a direction for engaging with the electrical connector and a pressing arm extending in an opposite direction. When the pressing arm is pressed inwardly, the engaging arm expands outwardly to release the electrical connector. |
| US08206156B2 |
Joystick for training to improve sensory-guided fine motor control of the hand
System and method for improving tactile sensitivity and precision/accuracy of motor control of the hand of a subject. A joystick is configured to provide commands to a computing device. The joystick includes a base, shaft, and a textured surface with a specified level of bumpiness. A computer-implemented exercise is executed, including presenting stimuli, including at least one target, to the subject via a computer display. The subject is required to respond to the stimuli via the joystick within a specified duration, including using the joystick to move a cursor to the target, and, upon reaching the target, disengage from the joystick. The subject's response to the stimuli is recorded, and a determination made regarding whether the subject responded correctly. The duration is modified based on whether the subject responded correctly to the stimuli. The presenting, requiring, recording, determining, and modifying are repeated a plurality of times in an iterative manner. |
| US08206152B2 |
Method concerning the modelling and production of a set of artificial teeth
Method for producing a base part of a set of artificial teeth, or a set of artificial teeth having a base part, comprising the step of forming the base part by a rapid prototyping process, e.g. 3D lithography and, in particular, 3D laser lithography. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method of establishing a data set representing the shape of a base part of a set of artificial teeth, wherein a gum area or a model thereof is scanned and/or a model of a base part is scanned and/or the shape of the base part is simulated on a computer. |
| US08206149B2 |
Demountable burner
A description is given of a burner for introducing solid, liquid or gaseous fuel into the burning zone of a kiln, such as rotary kiln for manufacturing cement clinker or “similar materials, said burner comprising a burner pipe (1) which encircles a number of ducts for conveying fuel and combustion air through the burner. The burner is characterized in that the burner pipe (1) is made up of modules (1a, 1b) which are fixed to another by fixing means (9) which will allow non-destructive assembly and disassembly of the modules. Hereby is obtained a burner in which it will be possible in a simple and non-destructive manner to disassembly the burner pipe (1) in modules (1a, 1b) in direction from the free end of the burner (7) or the burner tip. As a result, the outermost module of the burner pipe (1) which constitutes the burner tip can easily be disassembled for repair or replacement and/or for repair or replacement of components incorporated in the burner tip so that maintenance and upgrading of the burner to the latest technology can be carried out in the simple and non-destructive manner. |
| US08206148B2 |
Gas burner for cooking appliances
For cooking appliances, a gas burner presenting externally at least one annular portion (50), characterized by presenting two gas inlets (3, 10), with which at least two injectors (4, 11) are associated respectively; the first gas inlet (3) supplying the air/gas mixture to a first annular chamber (55) provided in said annular portion (50) and communicating with a series of main ports (24) through which said mixture leaves to form at least one main flame ring (43) in the outer circumference of the annular portion (50); the second gas inlet (10) supplying the air/gas mixture to a second annular chamber (55) provided in said annular portion (50) and feeding a flame ring (27) which constitutes the only flame ignited in the burner when this is operating at minimum power. |
| US08206146B2 |
Mold-tool system having a manifold body defining uninterrupted melt channels
A mold-tool system comprising: a manifold assembly, including: a manifold body defining: an inlet assembly; outlets being set apart from the inlet assembly; and uninterrupted melt channels extending between the inlet assembly and the outlets. |
| US08206144B2 |
Transfer device and linear-type apparatus for the manufacture of containers
A preform transfer device includes at least one clamp including two levers pivoting between an open position and a closed position and elements for the elastic return of the levers to the closed position. The device includes a mechanism for selectively controlling the opening and closing of the clamp, this mechanism including: a lever spreading member driven by a link including at least one free end able to interact with actuating elements to cause the clamp to open against the force of the elastic return elements, and associated locking elements that are able to move between a locked position in which the clamp is held in the open position and a retracted position in which the clamp is free to close, the locking elements being able to interact with second actuating elements designed to cause the locking element to move from the locked position to the retracted position, to trigger the closure of the clamp. |
| US08206133B2 |
Turbocharger housing with integral inlet and outlet openings
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed towards a turbocharger for an internal combustion engine and more particularly an apparatus and method for fluidly coupling a turbocharger with an internal combustion engine. In one embodiment a turbocharger housing is provided. Turbocharger housing includes a turbine housing defining a volute chamber. The turbocharger housing also includes a first housing support extending from the turbine housing. The first housing support is integrally formed with the turbine housing and the first housing support defines an inlet opening and an outlet opening each of which are in fluid communication with the volute chamber. |
| US08206128B2 |
Refrigeration cycle system
A refrigeration cycle system is provided with a two-cylinder type rotary compressor having one compression mechanism which includes a switching mechanism for switching a back surface side of a blade between a low pressure mode and a high pressure mode and controlling the inner space of the cylinder chamber to the high pressure upon switching at the low pressure mode. In a high load state, a normal operation is performed by switching the pressure of the back surface side of the blade of the one compression mechanism at the high pressure mode. In a low load state, an uncompressed operation is performed by switching the pressure of the back surface side of the blade of the one compression mechanism at the low pressure mode and by controlling the inner space of the cylinder chamber to the high pressure to move the blade away from the roller. |
| US08206114B2 |
Gas turbine engine systems involving turbine blade platforms with cooling holes
Gas turbine engine systems involving turbine blade platforms with mateface cooling holes are provided. In this regard, a representative turbine blade for a gas turbine engine includes: an airfoil having a leading edge, a trailing edge, a pressure side and a suction side; and a blade platform on which the airfoil is disposed, the blade platform having a pressure side mateface located adjacent to the pressure side of the airfoil and a suction side mateface located adjacent to the suction side of the airfoil, the blade platform having a cooling hole operative to direct a flow of cooling air toward an adjacent blade platform. |
| US08206113B2 |
Method and apparatus for converting marine wave energy by means of a difference in flow resistance form factors into electricity
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for gradually converting marine wave energy into electricity. The energy reserve provided by wind power holds enough energy for the needs of the entire mankind. The invention provides an efficient means of putting this energy reserve to practical use. Mounted on a rotating power shaft is a pair of form parts, the convex and concave shape, especially the round-pointed open V-shape of which reverses its orientation by 180 degrees, i.e. turns from convex to concave, whenever the power shaft makes a rotation of 180 degrees. The circular motion of water occurring in a wave drives such a turbine effectively while the wave dies out. The pair of convex and concave form parts extends helically around the power shaft, whereby water currents in all directions, which come to contact with the pair of form parts, produce a rotative moment. |
| US08206112B2 |
Cooling system for a wind turbine
A wind turbine having a cooling system, which wind turbine includes a nacelle in connection with which one or more wind turbine components are arranged, is disclosed. The cooling system includes at least one cooling circuit arranged to lead a heat transfer medium to and from one or more of the wind turbine components, at least one cooling device arranged to cool the heat transfer medium, at least one pump arranged in connection with the at least one cooling circuit to circulate the heat transfer medium in the cooling circuit, and at least one medium tank arranged in connection with the cooling circuit. The at least one medium tank is arranged inside the nacelle. |
| US08206110B2 |
Horizontal wind turbine blade balancing accessory
A balancing assembly for use in a wind turbine having at least one pair set of blades, the balancing assembly comprising a ballast and a ballast receiving structure on at least one blade of the pair set of blades. The ballast provides a threaded portion for engagement with the ballast receiving structure. The ballast further provides at least one end configured with a drive socket for driving said ballast into said ballast receiving structure. The ballast is capable of being trimmed to achieve a predetermined mass necessary to achieve a balance between the blades in the pair set of blades. |
| US08206108B2 |
Turbine blades and methods of manufacturing
A turbine blade includes a convex suction side wall, a concave pressure side wall, a tip wall, an internal cooling circuit, and a plurality of tip edge channels. The tip wall is recessed from a first tip edge of the suction side wall and a second tip edge of the concave pressure side wall to define a suction side wall tip section and a pressure side wall tip section, and the suction side wall tip section is shorter than the pressure side wall tip section. The internal cooling circuit is formed at least partially between the convex suction side wall, the concave pressure side wall, and the tip wall. The plurality of tip edge channels formed through the first tip edge of the convex suction side wall extend to the internal cooling circuit. Methods of manufacturing turbine blades are also provided. |
| US08206100B2 |
Stator assembly for a gas turbine engine
A stator assembly for a gas turbine engine includes: (a) an outer shroud having a circumferential array of outer slots; (b) an inner shroud having a circumferential array of inner slots; (c) a plurality of airfoil-shaped vanes extending between the inner and outer shrouds, each vane having inner and outer ends which are received in the inner and outer slots; and (d) an annular, resilient retention ring spring which engages the inner ends of the vanes and urges them in a radially inward direction. |
| US08206099B2 |
Active air flow adjustable fan
A fan includes at least one fan frame, at least one impeller and at least one active flow-control device. The fan frame includes at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The impeller is disposed in the fan frame. The active flow-control device, is disposed on the fan frame for adjusting the size of the air inlet or the size of the air outlet according to demands. |
| US08206097B2 |
Compressor
A compressor which includes: an inner casing arranged so as to cover a rotor shaft; an outer casing arranged so as to cover the inner casing and forming a fluid flow path around the rotor shaft; and a plurality of struts mounted in the entrance of the fluid flow path and between the inner casing and the outer casing; in which the plurality of struts are arranged in a radial pattern centered on the rotor shaft, and the spacings between the adjacent struts in the circumferential direction of the rotor shaft are unequal. |
| US08206092B2 |
Gas turbine engines and related systems involving blade outer air seals
Gas turbine engines and related systems involving blade outer air seals are provided. In this regard, a representative blade outer air seal assembly for a gas turbine engine includes: an annular arrangement of outer air seal segments, each of the segments having ends, the segments being positioned in an end-to-end orientation such that each adjacent pair of the segments forms an intersegment gap therebetween, each intersegment gap being defined, at least partially, by a first recess and a first protrusion, the first protrusion being sized and shaped to be received by the first recess, one of the first recess and the first protrusion being located on an end of a first segment of an adjacent pair of the segments, another of the first recess and the first protrusion being located on an end of a second segment of the adjacent pair of the segments. |
| US08206091B2 |
Exhaust guide member of nozzle vane-type turbocharger
In a turbocharger equipped with a nozzle vane for changing the speed of exhaust gas running through a turbine in accordance with the speed of engine revolution, the member to constitute the nozzle vane and to constitute an exhaust guide for guiding exhaust gas to the turbine is characterized in that the exhaust guide member of a nozzle vane-type turbocharge is formed of an austenite stainless steel containing, in terms of % by mass, at most 0.08% of C, from 2.0 to 4.0% of Si, at most 2.0% of Mn, from 8.0 to 16.0% of Ni, from 18.0 to 20.0% of Cr and at most 0.04% of N and containing these ingredients in such a manner that they satisfy a DE value of the specified formula to be from 5.0 to 12.0, with a balance of Fe and inevitable impurities. |
| US08206087B2 |
Sealing arrangement for turbine engine having ceramic components
A sealing arrangement for use in a turbine engine having ceramic components. The sealing arrangement is retained in a seal gap formed between adjacent segments and is compliant to accommodate variations in the size of the seal gap as the adjacent segments move relative to one another. |
| US08206086B1 |
Turbofan hybrid metallic and plastic inlet case
An inlet case for a small gas turbine engine, where the inlet case is formed as a hybrid piece with a metallic inner shroud cylinder and plastic guide vanes and plastic outer shroud molded around the metallic inner shroud cylinder. The metallic inner shroud cylinder carries an electric generator and provides for a good convective heat transfer surface to carry heat away from the electric generator and into the inlet air flow entering the engine. The plastic guide vanes and outer shroud allow for a light weight inlet case assembly that is also much easier to form the airfoil shapes than a machined metallic inlet case. The plastic guide vanes and outer shroud are injection molded around the metallic inner shroud cylinder to produce a rigid single inlet case. The metallic cylinder includes axial extending slots that receive the lower ends of the guide vanes during the injection molding process. |
| US08206084B2 |
Blade wheel
A blade wheel consisting of sheet metal for use in motor vehicle refrigerant pumps has blades that are cut out of a disk and pitched and base disk segments that lie adjacent to the blades and remain between the latter. The blade wheel is formed by at least two different blade wheel elements which are provided with cut out, pitched blades, are interconnected in a fixed manner and are arranged so that their respective base disk segments are offset in relation to one another, forming a gap therebetween, the elements thus forming a common bottom disk. A hub sleeve is provided in the center of one of these blade wheel elements (the hub disk), and the center of the other blade wheel element or elements (the bore disk or disks) is provided with a hub sleeve receiving bore, which can be pushed onto the casing of the hub sleeve. |
| US08206082B2 |
Packing seal rotor lands
In one embodiment, a packing seal has a plurality of lands that align with annular teeth. Each land has opposite axial sides relative to a rotational axis of a rotary component. Each land also has a recess in at least one of the opposite sides. |
| US08206077B2 |
Overhead transportation system and method of transferring article
An overhead shuttle is controlled to support a bottom of an article while traveling. A transfer apparatus is controlled to hold the article from above the article, move the article between a position above the overhead shuttle and a position above stations provided on a side of a travel rail, and elevate and lower the article to transfer the article between the transfer apparatus and the station. |
| US08206073B2 |
Apparatus for pressing a book casing or a slip-fold against an adhesive-covered back
An apparatus is provided for pressing a casing or a slip-fold against an adhesive-covered back and adjacent side flanks of a book block, which is conveyed while clamped into a circulating clamp of a perfect binder with the book back projecting downward. The apparatus includes a back pressing device for pressing the casing against the adhesive-covered back and a flank pressing device for pressing the casing against the side flanks. These devices are driven synchronized with the timing of the book binder clamps for conveying the book blocks. At least the flank pressing device is assigned an individual drive unit which is connected to a control device of the perfect binder. |
| US08206071B1 |
Cabinet anchor bolt assembly
An anchor bolt assembly for securing a cabinet and other structures to a sub-floor. A bolt with coaxial upper and lower threaded bores receives a threaded member from above and secures it to a threaded member from below. The upper threaded bore allows the cabinet to be secured to the upper floor. The lower threaded bore provides a securing means for the anchor bolt and its attachments through coupling the threaded bolt from the upper threaded bore to a threaded member protruding from the sub-floor. This threaded member engages the lower threaded bore. The threaded bores of the bolt provide two areas of stabilization against shear and torsional stresses along the axis of the anchor bolt assembly. |
| US08206065B2 |
Gabion
A recoverable gabion is disclosed. The gabion comprises opposed side walls connected together at spaced intervals by a plurality of partition walls such that spaces between neighboring pairs of partition walls define, together with the side walls, individual compartments of the gabion, adjacent side and partition walls being connected to one another by pivotal connections wherein at least one partition wail comprises at least three partition wall elements, a first partition wall element being pivotally connected to a first side wall and a second partition wall element being connected to a second side wall, and the partition wall comprising at least a third partition wall element between said first and second partition wall elements acting as a spacer element therebetween to extend the width of the gabion compartment and being releasably connected to the first and second partition wall elements. |
| US08206064B2 |
Voided drilled shafts
A method of constructing a voided drilled shaft concrete structure is provided. Drilled shafts are large-diameter cast-in-place concrete structures that can generate extremely high temperatures during the concrete hydration/curing phase. The method includes creating an excavation, inserting a cage or an inner casing into the excavation, and filling with concrete the space between the outer surface of the cage or inner surface and the inner surface of the excavation. |
| US08206062B2 |
Soil remediation method and composition
A method for in-situ reduction of contaminants in soil. |
| US08206059B1 |
Load transfer assembly
A load transfer apparatus accommodates movement between adjacent concrete slabs. The load transfer apparatus includes a spine in a form of an elongated hinge having a longitudinal axis A. A first dowel and a second dowel project radially from the spine and are located at two spaced points along said longitudinal axis A. |
| US08206058B2 |
Manhole cover hinge assembly
A manhole cover assembly includes a frame defining an access opening, first and second mounting posts extending from the frame, and a cover for covering the access opening. The cover includes first and second mounting recesses that pivotally receive the first and second mounting posts respectively, such that said cover is movable between an open position and a closed position by rotating the recesses about the posts. At least one of the recesses includes a locking groove that aligns with the post when the cover is moved to an open position to lock the cover in the open position. |
| US08206056B2 |
Barrier system
A barrier system includes at least first and second reinforced concrete posts, each concrete post including at least one conduit formed therethrough having first and second ends and a strain relief sector formed therein at the first end of the conduit. At least one tension cable extends between the posts. The tension cable extends through the conduit of each post and has a cable end secured to the post at the second end of each post's conduit. |
| US08206055B2 |
Mechanism for securing a shaft-hub connection of two shafts
A coupling mechanism secures a shaft-to-collar connection for two shafts, such as an extension shaft stub and a tractor PTO shaft. An annular locking element on the first shaft prevents an axial disconnection of an established connection. One of the shafts has a collar with a positive engagement element for a locking engagement with the other shaft. The other shaft includes a positive engagement for a locking engagement with the collar. To enable an easier handling of the axial locking of the shaft to collar connection, the locking element includes a first set of teeth which are complementarily to a second set of teeth on the second shaft. The locking element is rotatably arranged on the first shaft and can be rotated from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the locked position the teeth overlap. |
| US08206053B2 |
Device that can be assembled by coupling
A device can be assembled by a coupling. The device includes first and second body members and positioning structure. The first and second body members are designed to be coupled relative to each other. The positioning structure is designed to provide an interface between the first and second body members, and to position the first and second body members relative to each other via first, second, and third contact areas. The first, second, and third contact areas are each substantially linear and are collectively configured to receive loads, and to limit positioning of the first and second body members relative to each other with regard to five degrees of freedom. A fourth contact area between the first and second body members is designed to limit positioning of the first and second body members relative to each other in a sixth degree of freedom, in a first translational direction. |
| US08206049B2 |
Packaging item
A packaging item for a cosmetic product includes a receptacle provided with an opening and a plate mounted on the receptacle and carrying at least one wiping member, the wiping member being displaceable in a slot or a port of the plate to occupy different positions in the opening of the receptacle, the positions allowing product to be removed with an applicator from different zones of the receptacle. |
| US08206047B1 |
Keyboard overlay for optimal touch typing on a proximity-based touch screen
A keyboard overlay for use on a touch screen is disclosed, as well as novel key structures for use on overlays. The keyboard overlay and key structures have novel structures which can provide finger resting resistance, deceleration during actuation, pre-actuation cues, finger positioning cues, key identification cues, and other desired aspects of a keyboard optimized for touch typing. Methods for stowing and deploying the keyboard overlay to align with the virtual keyboard of a touch screen are also disclosed. The disclosed keyboard overlay can provide optimal touch typing characteristics for use on all known types of touch screens. |
| US08206046B2 |
Recording device with a second platen roller that rotates at a faster speed than a first platen roller
A recording device that records images on both sides of a recording medium using two recording heads suppresses slack in the recording medium and conveys the recording medium reliably. A first recording unit 21 holds and conveys the roll paper 20 between a first recording head 22 that records images to one side of the roll paper 20 and a first platen roller 27. A second recording unit 41 located downstream from the first recording unit 21 holds and conveys the roll paper 20 between a second recording head 42 that records images to the other side of the roll paper 20 and a second platen roller 47. The first platen roller drive unit turns so that the circumferential speed of the second platen roller 47 is faster than the circumferential speed of the first platen roller 27. |
| US08206044B2 |
Integrated optical sub-assembly
Disclosed herein is an integrated optical sub-assembly for a diplexer, which can adopt a low-price small aperture isolator by disposing an isolator closer to a ferrule, such that the isolator may be distanced from a laser diode, and so the total cost can be reduced and the construction can be simplified; and an integrated optical sub-assembly for a triplexer, which has simplified construction for reducing the manufacturing costs, and whose exterior dimension can be reduced and the manufacturing can be easier by adopting a ball lens for narrowing the beam width. |
| US08206038B2 |
Linear motion guide unit with means for keeping cage against straying or wandering
A pinion-holder assembly is compact in size to fit easily within a transverse area of a raceway defined between raceway grooves on guideway members. The pinion-holder assembly is preferable to fit securely into a cage plate with ease, helping lessen required number of parts, simple and compact in construction, and less costly to fabricate. A holder has sides bulged widthwise into triangular shapes in transverse section to closely conform to the raceways on the guideway members and recesses lying in the lengthwise direction at apexes or ridges of the triangular shapes. A cage plate has a window of rectangular shape longer in sides in the lengthwise direction of the cage plate, and the longer sides have fringes somewhat raised inside the window so as to fit into the recesses on the holder, hereby fastening the holder to the cage plate. |
| US08206036B2 |
Linear motion rolling guide unit
A linear motion rolling guide unit, which has underside seals prevented from falling off a slider, comprises a slider having a pair of end caps secured at ends of a casing, and underside seals provided between the pair of end caps having engaging projections. Insertion holes are formed in the underside seals and engaged with the engaging projections to secure the underside seals to the slider. Fallout-inhibiting protrusions are provided at ends of each underside seal in the longitudinal direction. The slider has holding portions each having a hole or a recess into which each of the fallout-inhibiting protrusions is inserted when the underside seal is secured to the slider. A gap is maintained between the holding portion having the hole or the recess and the outer periphery of the fallout-inhibiting protrusion. |
| US08206035B2 |
Low-friction sliding mechanism, low-friction agent composition and method of friction reduction
The invention provides a low-friction sliding mechanism, a low-friction agent composition, a friction reduction method, a manual transmission and a final reduction gear unit that can exert very excellent low friction characteristics to sliding surfaces present under various applications, and, in particular, that have more excellent low friction characteristics than that of a combination of an existing steel material and an organic Mo compound.The low-friction sliding mechanism has an oxygen-containing organic compound or an aliphatic amine compound interposed between sliding surfaces that a DLC coated sliding member and a sliding member form.The low-friction agent composition contains an oxygen-containing organic compound or an aliphatic amine compound.The friction reduction method includes supplying the low-friction agent composition between sliding surfaces that a DLC coated sliding member and a sliding member form.The manual transmission includes, as at least one of sliding members, a DLC coated sliding section.The final reduction gear unit includes, as at least one of sliding members, a DLC coated sliding section. |
| US08206034B2 |
Opening mechanism for a flexible container
An opening mechanism for use with a fluid filled collapsible container is disclosed. The mechanism comprises an outlet spout adapted to be joined to a wall of the collapsible container, a perforator for opening the collapsible container through the outlet spout and a driver having a passage therethrough. The driver is received within the outlet spout and screw threadedly engaged therewith for advancement by relative rotation thereof to drive the perforator though the outlet spout to thereby open the collapsible container and permit fluid to be dispensed through the passage. A circumferential flexible seal is provided within the outlet spout on one of the driver and the outlet spout to engage with the other of the driver and the outlet spout to reduce leakage of fluid between the outlet spout and the driver as the collapsible container is opened. |
| US08206032B2 |
Temperature sensor mounting unit
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a temperature sensor mounting unit for mounting a temperature sensor to a mounting-target member at a mounting hole formed on a mounting wall thereof, the temperature sensor mounting unit including: a clip main body including: a base plate that is to be positioned on a front surface side of the mounting wall, the base plate having an installation hole formed therein, the installation hole allowing the temperature sensor to penetrate into a rear surface side of the mounting wall; and a plurality of elastic engagement pieces that extend from the base plate to be engaged with a circumferential edge of the mounting hole at the rear surface side of the mounting wall; and an elastic seal member configured to be disposed between the clip main body and the mounting wall. |
| US08206029B2 |
Micro-mechanical part with a shaped aperture for assembly on a shaft
The part is made from a plate (1) made of a brittle material, such as glass, quartz or silicon and includes at least one aperture (2, 4, 6) for driving in a shaft (5). This aperture is characterized in that it includes alternately rigidifying and positioning zones (8) and resilient deformation zones (10). Application to securing a shaft onto the moving parts of a timepiece movement. |
| US08206025B2 |
Microfluid mixer, methods of use and methods of manufacture thereof
Disclosed herein is a mixer comprising a base plate; a top plate in intimate contact with a surface of the base plate; the intimate contact preventing a fluid loss from the bottom plate; the top plate comprising a plurality of first ports for the entry of a first fluid and a second fluid; a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the plurality of first ports; a first heating element; and an exit channel for removing an intimate mixture of the first fluid and the second fluid; and a reciprocatory device in physical contact with the mixing chamber; the reciprocatory device being operative to agitate the first fluid and the second fluid. |
| US08206023B2 |
Backlight assembly and display device having the same
A backlight assembly and a display device including the backlight assembly are provided for one or more embodiments, where the display device is slim, lightweight, and requires low manufacturing costs because the device integrates a receiving container and a light generating unit cover member. According to an embodiment, the backlight assembly includes a first light generating unit, a wire electrically connected to the first light generating unit, a first fixing member including a groove to fix the first light generating unit and a wire outlet, and a receiving container comprising a light generating unit cover member. The first fixing member includes a protruding portion extending outwardly from the receiving container and the wire outlet formed on the protruding portion. |
| US08206014B2 |
Jacketed LED assemblies and light strings containing same
A jacketed light emitting diode assembly is provided, which includes a light emitting diode including a set of positive and negative contacts, and a lens body containing a semiconductor chip and end portions of the contacts. An electrical wire set of first and second electrical wires are connected to the positive contact and the negative contact, respectively. A light transmissive cover receives the lens body, and has an opening through which at least one of the contact set and the electrical wire set passes. An integrally molded plastic jacket at the opening of the light transmissive cover provides a seal at the opening against moisture and airborne contaminants. A waterproof light string including one or more of the jacketed light emitting diode assemblies is also provided, as are related methods. |
| US08206013B2 |
Light-guiding module
A light-guiding module includes a casing, a light-guiding body, a light source, and a light-abating element. The casing has an accommodating space and a light-emerging surface. The light-guiding body is received in the accommodating space of the casing and has a light-entering surface and a light-emerging surface. The light-emerging surface is located to correspond to the light-emerging surface of the casing. The light source is located to correspond to the light-entering surface of the light-guiding body. The light-abating element is located to correspond to the light-emerging surface of the light-guiding body, and the light-abating element may be located close to the light source. The light-abating element may be provided at a position which the light-guiding body is close to the light source, thereby making the light emerging from the light-guiding body to become more uniform and thus overcoming the problem that the brightness of light is uneven. |
| US08206008B2 |
Stage light
A stage light fixture is provided with a main body extending along a longitudinal axis; with a light source arranged inside the main body at a closed end of the main body and adapted to emit a light beam substantially along the axis; with an objective lens arranged at an open end of the main body opposite to the closed end along the axis; and with light beam adjusting means arranged between the light source and the objective lens for intercepting the light beam, which are movable along the axis of the main body. |
| US08206006B2 |
Illumination device and projection device with such an illumination device
An illumination device may include a flexible printed circuit board; a power electronics module; and a light-emitting diode module, which is electrically connected to the power electronics module by means of the flexible printed circuit board. |
| US08206003B1 |
Illuminated toilet paper holder
An illuminated holder for storing one roll of toilet paper in a protected and conveniently accessible position atop a toilet tank, although positioning in other conveniently accessible locations in a bathroom is also contemplated. The holder has a grooved base, a cylindrical main body, an upwardly-tapering cap, and a light emitting diode (LED) that provides a source of illumination through a translucent light shield positioned between the main body and the cap. A photovoltaic cell and rechargeable battery preferably power the LED light, and a sensor automatically activates the LED light in dimly lit surroundings. One roll of toilet paper is placed on the base at a time, and then covered until needed by the assembled main body, shield, and cap. Optionally, the base may have high-friction feet configured for gripping the top of a toilet tank cover and maintaining the holder in its desired position of use. |
| US08206000B2 |
Hollow edge-type backlight module with light-emitting array
A hollow edge-type backlight module with a light-emitting array and a display apparatus containing the same are disclosed. The hollow edge-type backlight module mainly utilizes a hollow reflection structure to replace a light-guide plate structure, and forms a light-emitting unit by collaborating with an edge-type light source, and forms a light-emitting array by appending together a plurality of light-emitting units. The reflection structure of each light-emitting unit has a horizontal surface and a reflective surface connected to the horizontal surface, wherein there is an angle included between the reflective surface and a surface extended from the horizontal surface, and the light source is disposed adjacent to the horizontal surface. A diffuser of the hollow edge-type backlight module is disposed above the reflective surface and the horizontal surface, and the diffuser, the light source, the horizontal surface and the reflective surface define at least one air cavity. |
| US08205998B2 |
Phosphor-centric control of solid state lighting
Lighting systems and devices offer dynamic control or tuning of a color characteristic of light. The lighting devices or systems utilize separately controlled sources to pump phosphors. The lighting systems and devices are configured to enable adjustment of intensities of electromagnetic energy emitted by the sources to independently adjust levels of excitations of the phosphors, in order to control a color characteristic of the visible light output of the lighting system or device. |
| US08205997B2 |
Touch control button apparatus and electronic apparatus utilizing the touch control button apparatus
A touch control button apparatus including a touch control light emitting surface, a touch sensing conductor, a touch sensing device and a light emitting device, which is under the touch control light emitting surface and surrounded by the touch sensing conductor. The touch sensing device detects the capacitance value variation of the touch sensing conductor when the touch control light emitting surface is touched by the object, to determine how the light emitting device is lightened. |
| US08205995B2 |
Optical device and system for privacy or contrast enhancement and methods of use thereof
The present invention relates to an optical device for privacy or contrast enhancement of a viewing display. Also disclosed are a system including the optical device and methods of improving privacy or contrast of a viewing display, such as a plasma display panel, a liquid crystal display panel, an inorganic light emitting diode display panel, or an organic light emitting diode display panel. |
| US08205988B2 |
Stereomicroscope
In intraocular observation of the eye, the slit lamp microscope 1causes the illumination light emitted by the illumination system 8 to enter the inside of the eye via the head lens 20 and causes an intraocularly reflected light of this illumination light to enter the observation system 6 via the head lens 20 in a state that an illumination optical axis O2 and an observation axis O1 are arranged so as to be nonparallel and a head lens optical axis OF and the observation optical axis O1 are arranged so as to be separate right and left. |
| US08205987B2 |
Method for optimizing a spectacle lens for the wavefront aberrations of an eye and lens
The current invention is directed to a method for designing an ophthalmic lens element, the method comprising the steps of determining a wavefront aberration of an eye in a reference plane, wherein the wavefront aberration of the eye can be described by a first series of polynomials of ascending order up to a first specific order and corresponding first coefficients; determining a first vision correction of a second specific order; determining at least one specific point over an aperture of the adapted ophthalmic lens element; determining a high-order wavefront aberration in the reference plane for each specified point of the adapted ophthalmic lens element, wherein the high-order wavefront aberration can be described by a third series of polynomials of ascending order above the second specific order up to and including the first specific order and corresponding third coefficients; and determining a second vision correction of the second specific order. |
| US08205986B2 |
Method for generating a trimming setpoint for an ophtalmic lens for it to be fitted in a half-rim spectacle frame
A method for generating a trimming setpoint for an ophthalmic lens for it to be fitted in a surround of a half-rim spectacle frame, includes the steps of: a) acquiring the planar coordinates of a plurality of first points characterizing the shape of a first longitudinal profile of the surround; b) determining the spatial coordinates of second points of a second longitudinal profile, obtained from a projection of the first longitudinal profile onto a predetermined reference surface, c) calculating the perimeter length of the second longitudinal profile, d) determining the spatial coordinates of third points of a third longitudinal profile, obtained from a projection of the first or of the second longitudinal profile on a curved surface deduced from a shape parameter of the ophthalmic lens, e) correcting the spatial coordinates of the third points, so as to equalize the perimeter length of the third longitudinal profile with the perimeter length of the second longitudinal profile, f) deducing the machining setpoint from the corrected spatial coordinates. |
| US08205984B2 |
Web printer and support structure
In one embodiment, a web printer includes a base, an arched member detachably supported on the base for supporting a web, and multiple print bars each detachably supported on the arched member. A positioning system is operatively connected between the arched member and the base when the arched member is supported on the base for aligning the arched member to the base. In one embodiment, the web printer also includes a second positioning system operatively connected between each print bar and the arched member when the print bar is supported on the arched member for aligning the print bars to the arched member. |
| US08205983B2 |
Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus includes a recording head that records an image on a record medium, a first and a second rollers respectively having rotation shafts parallel to each other, and an endless conveyor belt which is looped around the first and second rollers, and which has an external surface for conveying thereon a record medium in a conveyance direction from the first roller toward the second roller while supporting the record medium. On the circumferential surface of the second roller, provided are a abutting region abutting the internal surface of the conveyor belt, and a larger diameter region not abutting the internal surface of the conveyor belt and having a radius surpassing a sum of a thickness of the conveyor belt and a radius of the abutting region. |
| US08205982B2 |
Liquid application device, inkjet recording apparatus, and method of controlling liquid application device
The present invention provides a liquid application device, an inkjet recording apparatus and a recording apparatus, which are capable of performing an adequate application initial operation according to the length of waiting time and power-off time, as well as a method of controlling the liquid application device. In the present invention, information on an end time of the previous processing for collecting liquid is read from a nonvolatile memory, current time information indicating the current time is obtained, and information on a lapse of time from the end time of the previous collection to a start time of the current application. Thereafter, the number of preliminary rotations R of an application roller is decided based on the information on the lapse of time with reference to a look-up table. Sequentially, the application roller is rotated by the decided number of preliminary rotations R to perform preprocessing operation. |
| US08205978B2 |
Liquid ejecting head for effectively discharging air bubbles
A head for ejecting a liquid from ejection holes, including: a first flow-passage member in which are formed (a) a liquid-supply passage, (b) branch passages connected to the liquid-supply passage, and (c) discharge passages each being connected to any of the branch passages; a second flow-passage member in which are formed (a) at least one common passage each communicating with at least one of the branch passages and (b) individual passages having respective pressure chambers, each individual passage being connected to any one of the at least one common passage and introducing the liquid to a corresponding one of the ejection holes via a corresponding one of the pressure chambers; a first filter disposed in the liquid-supply passage; second filters disposed between the branch passages and the at least one common passage: and at least one energy giving member for giving ejection energy to the liquid in each pressure chamber. |
| US08205977B2 |
Degassing method of ink-jet ink, production method of ink-jet ink and ink-jet printer
A degassing method of an ink-jet ink comprising at least a pigment, and having a viscosity of not less than 10 mPa·second and not more than 50 mPa·second at 25° C., comprising the step of: carrying out degassing employing an external refluxing type hollow fiber degassing module under a condition of a pressure loss of the hollow fiber degassing module during degassing being less than 0.1 MPa. |
| US08205976B2 |
Partition map
An imaging material supply cartridge uses a partition map to identify access modes and encryption attributes. |
| US08205969B2 |
Jet stack with precision port holes for ink jet printer and associated method
A print head for a printer includes a jet stack for passage of ink to media to form an image on the media. The jet stack includes a substrate having a micro actuator. The substrate has an opening through the substrate that is proximate to the micro actuator and a diaphragm bonded to the substrate. The diaphragm has an opening through the diaphragm that is configured for fluid communication with the opening through the substrate. The diaphragm opening has a width that is larger than a width of the opening in the substrate. |
| US08205967B2 |
Liquid ejection head and manufacturing method thereof
A liquid ejection head includes a substrate, having a front surface and a back surface, provided on the front surface with an energy generating element for generating energy used for ejecting liquid; a supply port, provided so as to penetrate between the front surface and the back surface of the substrate, for supplying the liquid to the energy generating element; a first film provided on the front surface of the substrate; and a second film provided so as to coat a wall of the substrate defining the supply port. The first film and the second film surface-contact each other with respect to two directions substantially perpendicular to each other. |
| US08205966B2 |
Inkjet print head and print element substrate for the same
An inkjet print head is provided with a plurality of electrode terminals connected to a plurality of connecting terminals extending from electrical wiring members transmitting drive signals of elements generating energy for ejecting ink, and an insulating portion for insulating the extending portion of the connecting terminal to the connecting portion where the connecting terminal is connected to the electrode terminal from the print element substrate, the connecting portion being sealed by a sealant spreading due to a capillary force between the plurality of the connecting terminals. In order to prevent occurrence of the non-existence region of the sealant due to the blocking of the sealant by the insulating portion, the insulating portion is constructed of a plurality of separated convex portions in contact with the plurality of the connecting terminals respectively to form a groove between the convex portions for allowing the passing of the sealant. |
| US08205963B2 |
Ink jet print head, and method of manufacturing ink jet print head
An ink jet print head, which can prevent test terminals from coming into contact with ink or moisture and thus being corroded or damaging other circuits or wires, includes a nozzle forming member that is located in the vicinity of an area with the test terminals arranged therein and is separated from a nozzle forming member located in the remaining area so as to have a reduced volume. |
| US08205957B2 |
Droplet discharge device and droplet discharge method
A droplet discharge device includes: a discharge unit discharging a droplet and being moved relatively to a discharged object, on which the droplet is discharged, so as to form a predetermined pattern on the discharged object; a discharge amount measurement unit measuring a discharge amount of the droplet discharged from the discharge unit; a temperature acquisition unit acquiring a temperature of the discharge unit in the formation of the predetermined pattern; a temperature adjustment unit adjusting the temperature of the discharge unit; and a discharge amount adjustment unit adjusting the discharge amount of the discharge unit. In the device, the temperature adjustment unit adjusts a temperature of the discharge unit in the measurement of the discharge amount by the discharge amount measurement unit to the temperature in the formation of the predetermined pattern. |
| US08205953B2 |
Inkjet printing apparatus, inkjet printing system, and inkjet printing method
An inkjet printing apparatus, an inkjet printing system and an inkjet printing method are provided in order to correct a print density at a joint (overlapped portion) of nozzle arrays of a print head. The print density at the joint (overlapped portion) of the nozzle arrays is corrected based on a positional deviation between two adjacent nozzle arrays of the print head. |
| US08205952B2 |
Spacer placing method
A technology for placing spacers free from the occurrence of streaks is provided. Random numbers are generated by a computer, and made in one-by-one association with discharge positions of an object for discharging every generation, and stored in a memory unit of the computer. Coefficient values are determined for the respective discharge positions based on the stored random numbers, and individual voltage values to be required for the respective discharge positions are calculated through the multiplication of voltages set for respective nozzle holes N1 to Nn by the coefficient values. When the respective voltages corresponding to the discharge positions are applied to piezoelectric elements inside a discharge head and a discharge liquid containing the spacers are discharged through the plural nozzles N1 to Nn provided in the discharge head, the spacers are placed on the object for discharging by numbers according to the random numbers. |
| US08205949B2 |
Anti-lock hydraulic braking system, in particular for motorized two-wheel vehicles
An anti-lock hydraulic braking system has a wheel brake circuit with a main brake cylinder, wheel brake cylinder and switching valve, and an auxiliary pressure circuit, connected in parallel between the switching valve and wheel brake cylinder on the wheel brake circuit. With ABS control, the switching valve can be switched from a basic position, where it hydraulically connects the main brake cylinder and wheel brake cylinder, to a switched position where it prevents a build-up of braking pressure on the wheel brake cylinder via the main brake cylinder, while the braking pressure on the wheel brake cylinder can be modulated by the auxiliary pressure circuit. |
| US08205947B2 |
Method of breaking brittle solids
A method for fracturing a solid material is disclosed. The method comprises boring at least one bore hole in the solid material, the bore hole having a bottom and an open top. Reactive materials capable of an exothermic reaction to produce a liquid and a gas are introduced into the bore hole. The bore hole is then sealed at the open top. The exothermic reaction is then initiated to produce the liquid and the gas. The pressures generated by the liquid and gas in the bore hole result in fracturing of the solid material. |
| US08205946B2 |
Actuator
The present application relates to an actuating device (1) having a drive part (2) moving an output part (5) from an initial position into a final position, wherein the output part (5), or the drive part (2), has a first region (9) and a second region (10), and the drive part (2), or the output part (5), interacts with the two regions (9, 10) such that the position of the output part (5) is changed during an interaction with the first region (9), and an interaction with the second region (10) prevents a return movement of the output part (5) into the initial position. The present invention further relates to a vehicle seat comprising the actuating device (1) according to the application. |
| US08205941B2 |
Active head restraint for a vehicle seat
A head restraint (14) for helping to protect an occupant (60) of a vehicle seat (20) includes a base frame (150) connected to the vehicle seat. A cushion carrier (350) is supported on the base frame (150) by a track assembly (440) that facilitates movement of the cushion carrier (350) relative to the base frame (150) along a deployment axis (18) from a non-deployed condition to a deployed condition. The track assembly (440) includes a fixed track member (182) that forms a portion of the base frame (150). The fixed track member (182) includes spaced axially extending beam portions (190) with opposing surfaces (200) that define a channel (184) between the beam portions (190). The track assembly (440) also includes a sliding track member (370) that forms a portion of the cushion carrier (350). The sliding track member (370) includes a sliding frame (372) positioned in the channel (184) and having portions (442) positioned in sliding contact with portions (444) on the opposing surfaces (200) defining the channel (184). |
| US08205939B2 |
Heat radiation mechanism
A heat radiation mechanism that radiates heat from an electrical storage device disposed in a space under a seat installed in the passenger compartment, having a guide surface for directing the heat from the electrical storage device out of the space. The guide surface is inclined with respect to a vertical direction of the seat, and an end of the guide surface farthest from the electrical storage device in the vertical direction of the member is located in the vicinity of an outer face of the seat. |
| US08205933B2 |
Lethal threat protection system for a vehicle and method
A field configurable vehicle armoring system and associated method allow a user to retrofit and reconfigure a combination of armor components in response to a perceived threat change and using original equipment manufacture fasteners and holes. The system includes pillar armor attachable after an original equipment manufacture door and hinge are removed. Fasteners extend through the hinge of the armored door, the pillar armor and an original equipment manufacture pillar using holes other than the original equipment manufacture holes. Rocker panel and underbody armor is further provided, along with a ballistic resistant windscreen and rear wall armor. Where desired, system armor includes a composite plate comprising a strike face that is constructed from softer metallic material than an inner metallic sheet. |
| US08205930B1 |
Vehicle door with an irregular-circular frame for a recreational vehicle
Disclosed herein is a vehicle door with an irregular-circular frame for a recreational vehicle. A door window glass of the vehicle door includes a fixed glass (2) and a movable glass (1). The fixed glass (2) is fixedly installed in a portion of the door window surrounded by a lower door body (6), an outer frame (5) and a movable glass guide rail (9). The movable glass guild rail (9) has an arc rail. The movable glass (1) is installed on the lower door body (6) at the center of the arc of the movable glass guide rail (9) via a shaft sleeve and a shaft (4). A lock member (3) with a lock pin is installed on the upper part of the portion where the movable glass (1) engages with the movable glass guide rail (9). A stop block for adjusting the opening degree of the movable glass and stopping the lock pin of the lock member (3) is provided on the movable glass guide rail (9). Compared with the prior art, the vehicle door according to the present invention can solve the difficulty of opening and closing the widow glass of the vehicle door with the irregular-circular frame. |
| US08205928B2 |
Folding cargo bay cover for pickup truck
A cargo bay cover for a pickup truck includes at least first and second panels hingedly connected to each other. The first panel includes a release mechanism including a lever arm that is movable between a released position and an unreleased position, and a lock that is movable to a locked position preventing movement of the lever arm. The cover includes a resiliently deformable panel latch that is released when the first panel is opened and that is capable of flexing around a keeper if the cover is opened incorrectly. The cover includes a unique mounting clamp for attachment to the pickup truck. A second half of the mounting clamp rides up a shoulder on a first half of the mounting clamp as the halves are drawn together, enabling the to pinch in two directions—one parallel to the drawing force and another perpendicular to the drawing force. |
| US08205927B2 |
Automated flexible tarping system
An automated tarping system for open-topped containers includes a winding mechanism and an extension mechanism. The winding mechanism is attached to the container and to a cover and exerts a winding force to retain the cover so that the top of the container remains open. The extension mechanism utilizes a drive mechanism which exerts an extension force on a cable to pivot an arm to which a cover is attached. The arm is pivotally attached to a side of the container and is connected to the cable. When the drive mechanism exerts the extension force on the cable, the arm, which is connected, pivots with respect to the container. The cover, which is connected to the arm, is then drawn across the open-top of the container to close the top of the container as the extension force exerted by the drive mechanism overcomes the winding force generated by the winding mechanism. |
| US08205926B2 |
Vehicular storage enclosure
A vehicular storage enclosure comprising a sub-compartment (108) disposed within a passenger compartment (P) of a vehicle (V), wherein the sub-compartment (108) includes a closure panel (106) that provides selective access to the sub-compartment (108), wherein the closure panel (106) includes an outboard surface (116) that is substantially exposed to the passenger compartment (106) and an inboard surface (114) that is substantially exposed to the sub-compartment (108) when the sub-compartment (108) is closed off by the closure panel (106), and a handle (204) that is accessible from within the sub-compartment (108), and wherein one of or both of the handle (204) and an area proximate the handle (204) on the inboard surface (114) includes indicia (G) to conspicuously provide one or more instructions for opening the closure panel (106) from within the sub-compartment (108). |
| US08205921B2 |
Extruded aluminum bumper having triggers
An energy absorbing extruded bumper for a vehicle is formed from a lightweight metal, preferably aluminum base alloy material. The extruded bumper includes an outer wall, an inner wall, a top wall connecting the outer and inner walls, and a bottom wall connecting the outer and inner walls. Extending between the outer and inner walls are two or more s-curved trigger stiffeners. The trigger stiffeners include an upper s-curved trigger stiffener connecting the outer and inner walls and a lower s-curved trigger stiffener connecting the outer and inner walls. The lower s-curved trigger stiffener is spaced apart from the upper s-curved trigger stiffener. |
| US08205920B2 |
Sash lock with forced entry resistance
A sash lock mechanism includes a handle, a housing adapted to be supported by a sash window assembly, the housing having an opening receiving the handle therethrough, and a rotor coupled to the handle. The rotor is moveable between at least a locked position and an unlocked position by movement of the handle. The sash lock mechanism also includes a locking mechanism that contains a pivotable member pivotably connected to the housing. The pivotable member is pivotable between a first position and a second position. When the rotor is in the locked position and the pivotable member is in the first position, the pivotable member confronts the rotor to prevent movement of the rotor to the unlocked position. When the pivotable member is in the second position, the pivotable member does not prevent movement of the rotor. |
| US08205919B2 |
Sash lock with forced entry resistance
A sash lock mechanism includes a handle, a housing adapted to be supported by a sash window assembly, the housing having an opening receiving the handle therethrough, and a rotor coupled to the handle. The rotor is moveable between at least a locked position and an unlocked position by movement of the handle. The sash lock mechanism also includes a locking mechanism that contains a pivotable member pivotably connected to the housing. The pivotable member is pivotable between a first position and a second position. When the rotor is in the locked position and the pivotable member is in the first position, the pivotable member confronts the rotor to prevent movement of the rotor to the unlocked position. When the pivotable member is in the second position, the pivotable member does not prevent movement of the rotor. |
| US08205918B2 |
Locking structure
A locking structure applied on a board sliding in a track. The board has locating hole. The locking structure includes a moving member and a locking plate respectively disposed on the board. The moving member has a pull ring portion, a first extending arm, a second extending arm, a first contact portion and a second contact portion. The locking plate has a first engaging arm and a second engaging arm, wherein the first engaging arm leans against the first contact portion and the second engaging arm leans against the second contact portion when a loading is applied to the moving member via the pull ring portion to push the moving member from an initial position to a disengaging position. The first extending arm and the second extending arm apply a resilient force to drive the moving member from the disengaging position back to the initial position. |
| US08205909B2 |
Active knee bolster for automotive vehicle
An active knee bolster for an automotive vehicle has a base which is attached to a supporting structure, such as a glove box. The base has an outer periphery and an inner field containing a number of frangible attachment tabs. A combination inflatable bladder and cover is attached to the frangible attachment tabs such that the tabs tear partially free, and effectively become hinged from, the base when the bladder is inflated. |
| US08205906B2 |
Children's sport stroller
The invention relates to a rehabilitation children's sport stroller, comprising a frame (28), a seat (10), and a pivot device (16), which at least in some regions connects the seat (10) to the frame (28) pivotally about a seat pivot axis (S) and comprises a first joint (20) and a second joint (22), which are provided on the seat (10) on mutually opposing sides, wherein the first joint (20) and the second joint (22) can be locked, the first joint (20) comprising a first-joint operating element (40) for releasing the first joint (20). According to the invention, the second joint (22) is connected to the first-joint operating element (40) by means of a push-stable transfer device such that during an actuation of the first-joint operating element (40) the first joint (20) and the second joint (22) are released. Furthermore, the second joint (22) has a second-joint operating element for locking and releasing the second joint (22), wherein the second-joint operating element is connected to the first joint (20) by means of the push-stable transfer device (46) such that the first joint (20) is released when releasing the second joint (22). |
| US08205905B2 |
Methods and apparatus for ball and socket coupling
Methods and apparatus may permit a ball and socket coupling arrangement. A rotary interference member (2) and a rotary socket member (8) may be displaced from a hitch ball interference position (6) and a hitch ball socket position (11), respectively, to a hitch ball clearance position (7) by a hitch ball (17) moving through a trailer coupling path (27). A hitch ball socket (15) may be formed in part by a socket engagement surface (9) of a rotary socket member (8). A hitch ball guidance cone (21) may guide the hitch ball (17) through the trailer coupling path (27). A control rod (34) may be used to displace the rotary interference member (2) and the rotary socket member (8) from a hitch ball interference position (6) and a hitch ball socket position (11), respectively, to a hitch ball clearance position (7). |
| US08205902B2 |
Trolley-like folding bicycle
A trolley-like folding bicycle that mainly includes a bicycle frame, a folding device, a transmission gear, a draw bar, and a draw wheel set is disclosed. With the operation of the folding device, the present invention has a usage state and a folded state. When the present invention is in the folded state, the user can draw the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply turning the folded bicycle body upright such that the draw wheel set contacts the ground and then pulling the draw bar. At this stage, an axis formed with the draw bar is substantially perpendicular to a draw rotation axis formed with small wheels of the draw wheel set. The user can move the trolley-like folding bicycle by simply pulling the draw bar, as easily as drawing a luggage case. |
| US08205900B1 |
Vehicle suspension assembly
A suspension assembly for a vehicle includes a knuckle, a spring-damper assembly laterally spaced from the knuckle, a first control arm having an inner end and an outer end, a second control arm having an inner end and an outer end, and a stability link having an inner end and an outer end. The inner end of the first control arm is connected to a vehicle body and the outer end of the first control arm is connected to the knuckle by a lower ball joint. The spring-damper assembly is rotatably connected to the first control arm at a lower arm pivot location between the inner and outer ends of the first control arm. The inner end of the second control arm is rotatably connected to the spring-damper assembly at a second control arm pivot location spaced apart from the first control arm pivot location and the outer end of the first control arm is connected to the knuckle by a upper ball joint. The inner end of the stability link is rotatably connected to at least one of the first control arm and the vehicle body, and the outer end of the stability link is rotatably connected to at least one of the spring-damper assembly and the knuckle. |
| US08205894B2 |
Stroller connectable with a car seat
A stroller is connectable with a car seat, and includes a frame, and a stroller seat disposed on the frame. The stroller further includes a pair of opposing connecting rods mounted on the frame for supporting the stroller seat. The stroller seat is convertible between an upright position whereat the stroller seat is substantially vertical and connectable with the car seat, and a horizontal position whereat the stroller seat is substantially horizontal and adapted to be seated. The stroller seat includes a support frame operable to extend beyond and rise above the stroller seat to engage the car seat in the upright position, and operable to be moved to be lower than the stroller seat in the horizontal position. |
| US08205892B2 |
Method of automatically changing wheel toe angle
A method for changing the track of a vehicle (100) having first and second wheels (108, 110) disposed on opposing sides of the vehicle (100) along a line generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vehicle, the first and second wheels (108, 110 are supported on first and second wheel supports (114, 116, 204) to permit the track of the first and second wheels (108, 110) to be adjusted, at least one actuator (218, 220) is coupled to at least one wheel of the first and second wheels (108, 110) and is configured to change the toe angle of said first and second wheels (108, 110), and an electronic control unit (402) is coupled to the actuator (218, 220) that is configured to command the actuator (218, 220) to change the toe angle, the method comprising the steps of changing the toe angle of the first and second wheels (108, 110); rolling the vehicle (100) on the first and second wheels (108, 110) over the ground to generate opposing lateral forces on the first and second wheels (108, 110); and applying the opposing lateral forces to the first and second wheel supports (114, 116, 204) to change the track of the first and second wheels (108, 110). |
| US08205891B2 |
Intershaft seal assembly
An intershaft seal assembly for counter-rotating and co-rotating turbine engines is described. The seal assembly includes a pair of end rings and a seal element. At least one end ring has a flange, with upper and lower surfaces, disposed along and extending from one side of the ring. The seal element includes a ring, with inner and outer radial surfaces, and a ring flange wider than the ring. The ring flange is disposed along and extends diametrically from the outer radial surface, the latter also contacting the lower surface along at least one flange. The seal element is disposed between the end rings so that the ring flange extends beyond the flanges. The invention avoids the wear and heating problems inherent to intershaft seal systems, thus allowing the seal element to be composed of a temperature resistant metal, metal alloy, or carbon graphite. |
| US08205889B2 |
Methods and apparatus to facilitate sealing in rotary machines
A method for assembling a rotary machine is provided. The method includes providing at least one seal assembly that includes at least one annular seal housing defined by a top wall, a front wall, and a rear wall, that are connected together such that a cavity is defined within the housing, coupling a plurality of flexible plates within the cavity such that the plates are axially-spaced from the front wall and the rear wall within the cavity, coupling at least one side plate to the at least one annular seal housing such that the at least one side plate is moveable with respect the front wall and the rear wall, and coupling the at least one sealing assembly within a rotary machine to facilitate sealing between a rotary component and a stator component. |
| US08205888B2 |
Marksmanship target apparatus
A target training apparatus that fires projectiles at a trainee to simulate combat situations until the trainee strikes predetermined locations on target mounts made of standard paper or cardboard, wherein the predetermined locations correspond with deactivation wands that deactivate the apparatus and ceases firing from the target training apparatus. The apparatus comprises a base, a target column, deactivation wands, a firing column, paintball guns, and a plurality of target elements. The apparatus includes slots to hold compressed air bottles for propelling the paintballs and utility housing for providing power to the trigger system which controls the firing of the two paintball guns. The trigger system rotates a trigger lever in cyclic revolutions which causes the trigger to pull and fire rounds at the trainee. |
| US08205886B1 |
Didactic skill developing puzzle
A didactic skill developing puzzle having a center segment with a first end and a second end, a right side large loop, a right side small loop, a left side large loop, a left side small loop, and at least one continuous loop of material is described herein. The right side large loop can have a first snap connection, and the right side small loop can have a second snap connection. The first snap connection can removeably engage the second snap connection through the first web to form a first connected end. The left side has an identical pair of large and small loops and connections for engaging the second web to form a connected second end. The loops do not touch, and a continuous loop of material with an openable clasp is positioned between the loops allowing a user to experience a three dimensional maze. |
| US08205883B2 |
Paper transport path of image forming apparatus
A transport path switching unit is provided between transport rollers and pre-registration rollers, and control is performed to switch between a main transport path and an extended transport path of the transport path switching unit such that either the main transport path or the extended transport path is interposed as the part of the paper transport path between the transport rollers and the pre-registration rollers to vary a total length of the paper transport path. |
| US08205881B2 |
Sheet feeding device, image recording apparatus and sheet feeding amount compensating method
A sheet feeding device intermittently feeds a sheet according to commanded feeding amounts included in successively generated feeding commands. The sheet feeding device includes upstream and downstream feeding rollers rotated by respective first and second amounts of rotation corresponding to the commanded feeding amount. The sheet feeding device includes an obtaining portion for obtaining an overrun amount of the sheet immediately after a trailing edge of the sheet member has left the upstream feeding roller, based on a difference obtained by subtracting a product of a first radius and the first amount of rotation of the upstream feeding roller, from a product of a second radius and the second amount of rotation of the downstream roller. The obtained overrun amount is subtracted from the next commanded feeding amount, when estimating that the trailing edge leaves the upstream feeding roller during feeding of the sheet according to the next feeding command. |
| US08205877B2 |
Method and module for storing and dispensing planar items such as banknotes, wads of banknotes or the like
A method and a module are described for storing and dispensing flat items such as banknotes or wads of banknotes, wherein the items are retained between ribbon means and deposited on a rotating support element having at least two faces comprising one or more flat or convex portions, after crossing a pair of feed-in/dispensing main rollers. Means are provided for adjusting the length of the ribbon means along the portion that extends between the points of contact with the main rollers and the points of contact with the supporting element and/or with the items stored on the same. |
| US08205865B1 |
Universal jig tool
The disclosed embodiments include a rectangular jig tool that has a substantially rectangular body with a square cross-sectional shape, and this able to be held in a vice. The device has a number of features which enable the drilling of aircraft parts. First, the longitudinal slot is used to receive one portion of a part, and allow another portion to extend over a recess in the tool. When the drill passes through the part, it does not damage the tool because the recess accommodates. An optional clip-on feature is also provided which holds the parts in the longitudinal channel so that they are secured during drilling. Other parts are inserted such that they extend out away from a longitudinal slot in the tool for uninterfered drilling. Another features includes a longitudinal corridor/slit arrangement that allows a number of parts to be securely held and stick out from the device for drilling. |
| US08205859B2 |
Extended valve handle
A valve handle assembly for a valve having an outwardly extending rotatable stem for opening and closing the valve by rotation of the stem includes a stop plate for engaging the stem, a handle for rotating the stem by engaging and rotating the stop plate, and a cup washer for engaging the handle and retaining the stop plate and handle on the stem upon placing a nut on the stem and tightening of the nut. The handle has an internal lip for retaining the handle and the cup washer has a raised flange for engaging the lip to retain the handle upon tightening of the nut. |
| US08205857B2 |
Pressure regulating valve
A pressure regulating valve (10) includes a magnet coil (16) received in a coil body (18), an armature (26) movable relative to a pole piece (20) for actuating a valve closing member (36), and a magnetic circuit (48) containing a magnet yoke (50). The magnetic circuit (48) has a maximum of three components (20, 66; 26, 50) that together form magnetic transitions (72, 74) oriented in the axial direction. |
| US08205854B2 |
Form clamp
A form clamp particularly useful in construction environments for clamping two side-by-side forming panels is provided. The form clamp includes a frame having a first jaw and a slider having a second jaw opposed to the first jaw. The slider is shiftable along the frame, and at least one includes a locating pin configured for receipt in holes in forming panels. |
| US08205853B2 |
Flexure mount for an optical assembly
A flexure mount for economically producing pure translational motion with no arcuate or error motion in the vertical direction utilizing alignment pins and parts reducing structures including monolithic springs. A low profile embodiment utilizes a compound monolithic spring. The flexure mount may be used to translate a mirror or retroreflector in a purely linear direction of precisely controlled and known distance, useful in myriad interferometer applications including spectroscopy. |
| US08205841B2 |
Camera dolly
A camera dolly comprises a base and a plurality of legs extending radially outward from an inner end pivotally coupled on the base to an outer end supporting a wheel assembly thereon such that the wheel assemblies are arranged for rolling movement along a pair of rail members extending in a longitudinal direction. Each wheel assembly comprises a plurality of wheels spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction in two rows arranged to receive the respective rail member therebetween. Each wheel assembly is pivotal about an upright axis and a horizontal axis relative to the respective leg. A horizontal deck plate includes plural sets of mounting apertures therein corresponding to different relatively fixed relationships of the legs. A socket formed centrally in the base threadably receives an upright post therein which support the camera thereon spaced above the base. |
| US08205838B2 |
Electrostatic spacecraft reorbiter
Spacecraft vehicles and methods for providing reorbiters capable of moving target objects are provided. More particularly, a reorbiter utilizing electrostatic or Coulomb force for acting on target objects and for moving the target objects into new orbits or altitudes are provided. The reorbiter may establish an electrostatic force by controlling the electrical potential of the reorbiter through active charge emission. The target object may acquire an electrical potential due to its interaction with the space plasma and photoelectrons or the reorbiter may impart additional charge to the target object. After establishing the electrostatic force, a propulsion system of the reorbiter is operated to provide thrust. Thrust is directed to change the orbit and/or position of the target object that is being moved by the electrostatic force between the reorbiter and the target object. |
| US08205831B2 |
Modular helicopter deck for offshore oil drilling/production platforms
A heliport is formed by the assembly of a planar member including longitudinally-extending deck materials, each of which has a longitudinally-extending T-slot formed in the upper side thereof and is connected to a plurality of deck slats. Each deck slat is of generally I-beam configuration, with the lower flange thereof having a plurality of longitudinally-extending striations. A plurality of fixture blocks is provided, with each fixture block having a hole therein and including a plurality of striations for cooperatively engaging the striations in the lower flange of a deck slat. The head of a carriage bolt is disposed in the T-slot of the longitudinal deck materials, and extends through the fixture block, and is connected at its opposite end to a deck slat by a washer and nut, thereby providing a rigid interconnection between the deck slats and the planar member. |
| US08205828B2 |
Submersible transport and launch canister
Embodiments of a submersible transport and launch canister are provided for use by a diver in the deployment of an airborne object. In one embodiment, the submersible transport and launch canister includes a pressure vessel having an open end portion and a storage cavity configured to receive the airborne object therein. A diver-actuated cap is movable between an open position and a closed position in which the diver-actuated cap sealingly engages the open end portion. A propellant device is fluidly coupled to the storage cavity and is configured to propel the airborne object from the storage cavity and through the open end portion when the propellant device is actuated by the diver. |
| US08205827B2 |
Hydrazine monopropellant decomposition air turboprop engine
An engine for use in operating an aircraft is disclosed, the engine comprising a decomposition chamber configured to decompose into at least one combustible constituent element a first chemically unstable substance in the presence of a catalyst, wherein the decomposition of the first chemically unstable substance releases a first amount of heat; a first turbine configured to accept the constituent elements and the first amount of heat from the decomposition chamber and thereby rotate; a compressor rotationally connected to the first turbine, and configured to compress air when the first turbine rotates; and a combustion chamber configured to accept the compressed air and constituent elements and combust the combination, substantially regardless of an altitude above sea level and ambient air pressure, and output the combustion products into a power turbine, causing it to rotate, whereby the rotation of the first turbine and/or the power turbine rotate a propeller rotationally coupled to the first and power turbines. Alternately, a nozzle can be used in place of the power turbine, thereby creating a jet engine. |
| US08205826B2 |
Device for attaching an aircraft engine and aircraft comprising at least one such device
A device for attaching an aircraft engine including a thrust force take-up device that includes a main fitting to be fixed to an engine mounting beam fixed to a box structure, an additional fitting fixed to the main fitting, and two load reacting link rods connected to the main fitting by a balance beam, each of the link rods being connected to the balance beam by a first longitudinal end by a first mechanical connection that has at least one axis of rotation, each of the link rods being connected to the additional fitting by a second longitudinal end by a second mechanical connection that has at least one axis of rotation, the second mechanical connection having play, the first and second mechanical connections having at least one axis of rotation in common. |
| US08205824B2 |
Aircraft fuselage structure
An aircraft fuselage structure is described for a flying-wing aircraft, having a central area of slight curvature and side areas of greater curvature, which forms a pressure body and has an outer skin and structure reinforcements which support the outer skin. According to the invention, the structure reinforcements contain three-dimensional truss bending supports which extend over the area of light curvature and comprise first straps, which run close to the outer skin 9, and second straps, which run at a distance from the outer skin, and are connected to one another by coupling elements. |
| US08205818B1 |
Strap winder
A strap and cord winder is adjustable for different width straps and reconfigurable for cords. The winder includes a handle assembly with a center shaft and an offset pin for engaging and winding a strap. The center shaft adjustably passes through a face plate creating an adjustable width between a handle arm of the handle assembly and the face plate for winding different width straps. A cylindrical grip is attached to the face plate opposite the handle arm and the face plate attaches to a chest plate. A spool may be positioned on the center shaft between the handle arm and face plate for coiling cords and hoses and the offset pin engages a notch on one end of the spool to couple rotation of the handle to rotation of the spool. The spool includes disks at each end including open ended slots reaching radially to capture cord ends. |
| US08205815B2 |
Paper alignment sensor arrangement
A shredder includes a housing having a throat for receiving at least one article to be shredded and a shredder mechanism received in the housing. The shredder mechanism includes a motor and cutter elements, and enables the articles to be shredded to be fed into the cutter elements. The motor is operable to drive the cutter elements so that the cutter elements shred the articles into shredded particles. The shredder also includes a plurality of sensors provided along the throat for sensing articles. A controller is coupled to the motor and the sensors, the controller being configured to perform a predetermined motor control operation of the motor responsive to the sensors sensing the articles inserted into the throat at an angle above a predetermined angle threshold or the sensors sensing with a predetermined sensing pattern the at least one rectangular sheet of paper inserted into the throat. |
| US08205809B2 |
Atomizing foam pump
An antomizing foam pump creates atomized droplets of a foamable liquid in air in a compression chamber. The compression chamber is then collapsed to force the droplets and air through a mesh screen to create a foam product. |
| US08205807B2 |
Automatic atomizing spray gun
An automatic spray gun includes a nozzle (4) for ejecting the product that is to be sprayed, controlled by a needle valve (9), and means (14, 10) for controlling the movement of the needle (9). A tabular elastic sealing means (13) surrounds the needle valve (9) and is mounted trapped between the front (1a) and rear (1b) parts of the body. The interior surface of the tabular means (13) is tailored to the diameters of the needle valve (9) and of a control slide (14) mounted on the needle valve in order to move the needle thereof. |
| US08205806B2 |
Misting fan
A misting fan includes a rotatable fan blade collar, a plurality of fan blades mounted around the rotatable fan blade collar, a mist-generating assembly, a drive mechanism and a motor. The mist-generating assembly includes a mist nozzle disposed inside the fan blade collar and a hose with one end being coupled to the nozzle. The motor includes a motor shaft for rotating the fan blade collar through the drive mechanism. An axis of rotation of the motor shaft is offset from an axis of rotation of the fan blade collar. |
| US08205799B2 |
Physical object with memory tag and apparatus for use with such objects
A physical object is provided that comprises a base medium, such as a paper sheet, and a memory tag embedded in it or attached to it. The memory tag stores at least one data item and location data relating each of one or more areas on the object's surface to a corresponding data item. Preferably, the data item or items stored by the tag comprise a print data item representing an item printed on the object, and/or a meta data item representing an instruction, or data to be output, in response to user selection of the corresponding area on the object's surface. Apparatus is provided for writing the data items and location data to the memory tag; apparatus is also provided for subsequently using the location data for interpreting user selections made by indicating positions on the object. |
| US08205798B2 |
Card holding apparatus
A card holding apparatus of the present invention includes a seal member 12 that is provided so as to surround the periphery of a contact terminal portion 11. When a lid 3 is positioned in a closed position with a smart card 100 retained by the lid 3, the seal member 12 comes into close contact with the periphery of a terminal 101. Thus, even when foreign matter such as water or dust intrudes into a space between the lid 3 and a housing 1, adhesion of such foreign matter to contact terminals 11a or the terminal 101 can be prevented. |
| US08205797B2 |
Method and system for transmitting proof of payment for “pay-as-you-go” multi-function devices
A method and system is provided including a plurality of multi-function devices being operatively associated with at least one controller. Each of the plurality of multi-function devices having time staggered payment support capabilities for enabling at least one user continued access to the plurality of multi-function devices. A detecting module is provided for enabling the plurality of multi-function devices to automatically detect, inspect, and verify at least one authorization code located on incoming print jobs. The method and system enable the at least one user to pay for continued access to the plurality of multi-function devices via time staggered installments without one or more of the plurality of MFDs directly accessing a payment center via a network connection and without manually supplying the at least one authorization code to the plurality of multi-function devices. |
| US08205787B2 |
Stackable packing tray with diagonal corners
This invention relates to stackable, open-topped, partially-lidded, and/or fully-lidded shipping and/or display container, and more particularly to a corrugated paperboard stackable container for shipping and displaying products such as, for example, agricultural produce. |
| US08205781B2 |
Surgical stapler with apparatus for adjusting staple height
A surgical stapling instrument including a staple sled which can be advanced and/or retracted relative to first and second jaw members, wherein the staple sled can be configured to deploy staples from a staple cartridge in one of the first and second jaw members. In at least one embodiment, the other of the first and second jaw members can include an anvil having at least one forming surface which can be configured to deform the staples as they are deployed from the staple cartridge. In at least one form of the invention, the anvil can be movably adjustable relative to the staple cartridge in order to adjust the distance in which the staples are deformed. In various embodiments, the anvil can be adjusted by a slidable adjusting plate and/or a rotatable cam. |
| US08205774B2 |
Connecting assembly for support frames of a bicycle saddle
A connecting assembly for support frames of a bicycle saddle is fixed to the support frames under the saddle in a simple and stable way, the connecting assembly can also be used together with a connecting member which has one end engaged with the connecting assembly and the other end for clamping or carrying objects. |
| US08205770B2 |
Vending machine user interface guide; electronic coin return; and hinged delivery bin
A system and method for directing a consumer through a vending machine transaction. The system and method include a UI guide comprising visual cues to direct a consumer to insert a minimum amount of money, make a production selection and confirm the product selection. The system and method provide for the consumer to cancel the transaction and request that return of inserted coins. |
| US08205767B2 |
Infinitely adjustable beverage container holder by spin actuation
An adjustable beverage container includes an outer case having a case axis. An actuator ring, is rotatably coupled to the case. The actuator ring includes an arm extension push member and an arm retraction structure. A cover ring is fixedly attached to the case. An arm having an engagement structure including a slot or tab slidingly is engaged with the arm retraction structure of the actuator ring. The arm is also rotatably attached to the case and cover ring. The arm moves into and away from said case axis when the actuator ring is rotated relative to the case about the case axis. |
| US08205757B2 |
Shopping cart corral for displaying one or more advertisements and method of providing same
Some embodiments disclose a corral configured to hold one or more shopping carts and display one or more advertisements. The corral can include: (a) an enclosure having an opening configured to receive the one or more shopping carts, the enclosure having a first side; and (b) at least one first panel located at the first side and configured to display at least a first advertisement of the one or more advertisements. The advertising panels can be configured to be coupled adjacent the opening of the corral to facilitate better visibility. |
| US08205754B2 |
Fluororesin polymer separation membrane and process for producing the same
A fluorine resin polymer separation membrane and a manufacturing method of the same, which are excellent in a virus-eliminating property, further excellent in water permeability, chemical strength (chemical resistance), physical strength, and an antifouling property, and particularly suitable for practicable use as a filtration membrane for the elimination of viruses, are provided. A fluorine resin polymer separation membrane includes a layer having a three-dimensional network structure and a layer having a spherical structure, in which the layer having a three-dimensional network structure does not substantially contain micro-voids having a void diameter of 5 μm or more, and the fluorine resin polymer separation membrane has filtration performance represented by the elimination rate of 80% or more of dextran having molecular weight of 75,000. The layer having a three-dimensional network structure is formed by the solidification with a polymer solution containing a fluorine resin polymer and cellulose ester. |
| US08205752B2 |
Child-resistant, senior friendly package having a deactivatable locking mechanism
A package for storing and dispensing tablets includes a blister card having blister compartments and a hollow plastic sleeve providing a protective housing for the blister card when the blister card is in a storage position within the sleeve. The sleeve includes a pair of latches that extend toward the blister card, and the blister card includes a pair of latch-catchers for cooperatively engaging and catching the latches when the blister card is in a storage position to automatically lock the blister card in the storage position within the sleeve when the blister card is slid to the storage position. The sleeve also includes a deactivator positionable between a first position in which the blister card is permitted to automatically lock to the sleeve when the blister card is slid to the storage position and a second position for preventing the blister card from becoming locked to the sleeve. |
| US08205751B2 |
Folding packet
This invention relates to a packet for containing products and designed to display the products in a manner especially convenient for them to be picked by the user. |
| US08205748B2 |
Refill cartridges of a folded tissue product
An environmentally friendly package containing refill folded sheets is provided. The package contains a plurality of refill cartridges stacked together. Each refill cartridge contains a stack of interfolded sheets. In one embodiment, for instance, the sheets may comprise facial tissues. Each refill cartridge is configured to refill a sheet dispenser such as a paperboard dispenser. In this manner, a consumer can continually refill a single dispenser instead of having to repurchase a dispenser each time the folded sheet product is purchased. |
| US08205742B2 |
Harvester bucket
A harvester includes a conveyor having molded conveyor buckets. The conveyor includes a continuous first chain and a continuous second chain extending parallel to the first chain. Parallel spaced apart rods extend between the chains. Each bucket includes a front wall, a rear wall higher than the front wall, opposed sides connecting the front wall and the rear wall and a bottom portion connecting the front wall, the rear wall and the opposed sides. The front wall includes a mounting portion configured to extend over a rear wall of an adjacent bucket and one of the rods when assembled in a conveyor. The mounting portion is a lip in a first embodiment, an insert in a second embodiment and an upper portion of the front wall folded over in a third embodiment. |
| US08205740B2 |
Pneumatic conveyor for containers
A conveyor device for containers having a receiving rail for receiving a neck area of the containers, the containers being held by the receiving rail and are movable within this receiving rail. Guide mechanisms are provided with guide elements that are arranged beneath the receiving rail and guide the movement of the containers. The guide elements are movable in the longitudinal direction of the containers and the movements in the longitudinal direction of the containers of a plurality of different guide elements are mechanically linked to one another. |
| US08205738B1 |
Two-belt passive-roller case turner
A case turner and associated method for rotating conveyed articles. The case turner includes a pair of conveyor belts advancing side by side in a conveying direction. The belts, which are tilted downward toward each other, have rows of article-supporting rollers that can rotate freely on axes parallel to the conveying direction. Each of the belts advances at a different speed so that an article bridging both belts is rotated as it is conveyed along the belt. The speed differential is set to provide a desired degree of rotation for the length of the two belts. |
| US08205737B2 |
Apparatus for buffering objects
An apparatus for buffering objects having at least one first conveyor and at least one second conveyor, where objects enter the apparatus via the first conveyor and leave the apparatus via the second conveyor. Along a linear guide, a transfer device can be moved parallel to first and second conveyor to transfer objects from the first conveyor to the second conveyor. A control means unfolds and/or retracts a rail extending on at least one side of the first and/or second conveyor, dependent on the position of the transfer device. |
| US08205732B2 |
Clutch detent mechanism for outboard motor
A clutch detent mechanism for an outboard motor includes a ball movable with a clutch dog member, a ball retainer member provided in a propeller shaft for retaining the ball in a predetermined position, and a compression coil spring acting on the ball to resiliently force the ball against the ball retainer member. The ball retainer member has a recessed portion for receiving therein the ball to thereby retain the clutch dog member in a neutral position, a front tapered portion provided on one side of the recessed portion for retaining the ball in a position to keep the clutch dog member in a forward shift position, and a rear tapered portion provided on the other side of the recessed portion for retaining the ball in a position to keep the clutch dog member in a reverse shift position. |
| US08205729B2 |
Shock absorber
A cylinder chamber filled with a liquid, a piston disposed inside the cylinder chamber, a piston rod connected to the piston, and an accumulator allowing the piston rod to generate a damping force by receiving the liquid from a compression side of the cylinder chamber are included, and on an internal periphery of the cylinder chamber, one line of a helical damping groove is formed within a stroke range of the piston, a groove width of the damping groove is constant over the entire length of the damping groove, a depth of the damping groove gradually decreases along a spiral toward the direction in which the piston rod is pushed in, and a length of the piston in a direction along the axis line is smaller than a pitch of the damping groove. |
| US08205728B2 |
Magnetorheological force transmission device
The present invention discloses a magnetorheological force transmission device which comprises at least two solid body parts adapted to be moved in a substantially translational manner against each other, and an MRF gap, which is at least partially fillable and/or filled with a magnetorheological material 2MRF, the MRF gap being arranged at least partially inside one of or both of the two parts and/or being arranged at least partially in-between the two parts, and which is characterized in that the magnetic circuit system of the magnetorheological force transmission device being designed and/or disposed to generate a magnetic flux within at least part of the MRF gap comprises at least one electromagnet, at least one permanent magnet and at least one magnetic-field-balancing insert and/or magnetic isolator. |
| US08205726B2 |
Brake pad and caliper for a disc brake
A brake pad (5) for a disc brake (1) that can be associated with a caliper (2) with thrust means (9a, 9b, 9c) for clamping the brake pad (5) with friction against a braking band (4) of a brake disc (41), wherein the brake pad (5) comprises: a plate (6) with a central portion (11) provided with a layer of friction material (7), said central portion (11) having an upper edge (12) and an opposed lower edge (13) and also two lateral edges (6a, 6b) and two support appendages (14) which extend from said lateral edges (6a, 6b) of the central portion (11), each of said support appendages (14) bounding an eye (16) capable of receiving a pin (27) of the caliper (2). The upper edge (12) and lower edge (13) extend substantially along circumferences of a circle imparting an arcuate shape to the central portion (11), and said support appendages (14) are disposed substantially at the height of said lower edge (13) of the brake pad (5). |
| US08205725B2 |
Electric disk brake
An electric disk brake includes a single electric motor, a pair of rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms to which rotation of the electric motor is transferred, a pressing member that presses a brake pad toward a disk rotor by each of the rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms and a reduction mechanism interposed between the electric motor and the pair of rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms. The reduction mechanism transfers rotation output, where input of the electric motor is expanded, to one side of the pair of rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms and transfers reaction force of the rotation output to the other side of the pair of rotary-to-linear conversion mechanisms. |
| US08205721B2 |
Arrangement and method for controlling the brake of an elevator using different brake current references with different operation delays
A method and an arrangement for controlling a brake of an elevator. In the method a plurality of optional objectives of operation are determined for the elevator; one or more of these objectives is selected at a time to be implemented as an objective of the operation of the elevator by using selection criterion; references for the energizing current of the brake of the elevator that differ from each other and/or references for the closing current of the brake of the elevator that differ from each other are determined; the brake current reference used at any given time is selected so that the selected brake current reference best corresponds to an objective of the operation of the elevator to be implemented; and also the brake of the elevator is controlled by adjusting the brake current towards the selected brake current reference. |
| US08205718B2 |
Belay device
A belay device for protecting a climber on a rope from a fall has a powered winding reel to which the rope is attached. A control mechanism acts to prevent slack in the rope between the climber and the winding reel and includes load sensor that which, on detecting the weight of the climber on the rope, switches the operation of the device to a fall or descent mode where the winding reel is stopped and the climber is suspended by the rope. An electronic control and diagnostic system monitors the operation of the winding reel and switches its operation to a safe, fault mode when a fault is detected. |
| US08205717B2 |
Vehicle ladder mounting system
The instant invention, the Vehicle Ladder Mounting System, is comprised of a rail assembly, a plurality of support assemblies, one or more security assemblies, and one or more accessory assemblies. The rail assembly of the instant invention is comprised of two parallel rails connected by a plurality of cross-member assemblies. The instant invention can be easily adapted, augmented, and modified because of the structure of the aluminum channel. The design of the instant invention allows for multiple configurations as the rail can be attached to the punched pattern in many configurations via a bolt-nut combination. The instant invention is also comprised of assemblies that can be used to stack ladders on a vehicle. The instant invention is also comprised of an inclined ladder rack assembly and accessory attachments such as the shovel holders, beacon support, and inclined beacon support. |
| US08205716B2 |
Exhaust muffler
An exhaust muffler (1) for an exhaust system of an internal combustion engine, especially of a motor vehicle, includes two front-side end panels (2) facing away from each other, a circumferential jacket (3) closed in the circumferential direction, at least one exhaust muffler insert (4), with at least one inlet pipe (5) and with at least one outlet pipe (6). At least one of the pipes (5, 6) extends through the jacket (3) into the interior (8) of the exhaust muffler and is fastened to the jacket (3). Manufacture can be simplified if the pipe (5, 6) extending through the jacket (3) has a cone (10) at its inner end, if the exhaust muffler insert (4) has a countercone (11) and if the cone (10) meshes with the countercone (11). |
| US08205715B1 |
Muffler combination
A muffler combination includes two pipe units each having a cylindrical shell and having an entrance and an exit, an inlet tube connected to the entrance, an outlet tube connected to the exit, and a housing engaged in each of the cylindrical shells, the housings each include three openings formed on one side and two orifices formed on the other side, the cylindrical shells are disposed parallel to each other, and the entrance and the inlet tube of one of the cylindrical shells is located closer to the exit and the outlet tube of the other cylindrical shell whose entrance and inlet tube are located closer to the exit and the outlet tube of the cylindrical shell. |
| US08205714B2 |
Method for adjusting a Helmholtz resonator and an adjustable Helmholtz resonator
In a method for adjusting a Helmholtz resonator (10), in which a resonator volume (11) is connected to a space (13) to be provided with damping along an axis (29) via a constriction (12) having an acoustic impedance, the acoustic impedance of the constriction (12) is altered in order to adjust the Helmholtz resonator (10). |
| US08205711B2 |
Seismic source arrays
A seismic source array 15 comprises a plurality of seismic source 26 arranged about a central point of the source array 15 in such a way that an imaginary circle drawn with said central point at its center, and containing all of said seismic sources 26, can be divided into at least three whole sectors each of which contains a substantially identical arrangement of seismic sources 26. |
| US08205709B2 |
Transmission fluid warming and cooling system
A system for heating and cooling the transmission fluid including a heat exchanger adapted to transfer heat between an engine coolant and a transmission fluid and a controller for controlling a valve to place the system into a select one of three modes including a heater core priority mode wherein no engine coolant flows to the heat exchanger, a heating mode wherein hot engine coolant flows directly to the heat exchanger from the engine and a cooling mode wherein cool engine coolant flows directly to the heat exchanger from the radiator, whereby the transmission fluid is heated in an efficient manner with minimal impact on passenger compartment heating. |
| US08205708B2 |
Hydraulic transaxle
A hydraulic transaxle has an axle casing and a pair of hydraulic motors disposed in the axle casing. The hydraulic motors have respective motor shafts and respective moveable swash plates. An axis of tilt of each moveable swash plate is offset with respect to a longitudinal axis of the respective motor shaft, and the moveable swash plates are operatively engaged to a steering operation device. |
| US08205706B2 |
Swing arm pivot structure for motorcycle
To provide a swing arm pivot structure for a motorcycle which can prevent rubbing between a swing arm and a body frame with a simple structure and can reduce a manufacturing cost for the motorcycle. The swing arm pivot structure includes a swing arm for supporting a rear wheel, a pivot shaft mounted to a body frame and inserted through a swing arm pivot of the swing arm, a first bearing located between one end portion of the swing arm pivot and the body frame for pivotably supporting the swing arm, a first collar located between the inner circumference of the first bearing and the pivot shaft, and a second collar located between the first collar and the body frame. The second collar has a rigidity different from the rigidity of the first collar and the body frame. |
| US08205705B2 |
Middle electric motor drive unit for electric bicycle
A middle electric motor drive unit for an electric bicycle, including a motor, a controller, a sensor, a gear reducer, a one-way clutch, a chain tightener, and a housing. The middle electric motor drive unit is disposed below a frame of the electric bicycle, and in the vicinity of a pedal shaft thereof. The middle electric motor drive unit is independent from the pedal shaft with respect to functions and structure. The motor is an internal rotor and permanent magnet DC motor. The motor shaft of the motor is parallel to a gear shaft and the pedal shaft. The controller is built-in, and disposed in or on the housing. The sensor is an internal sensor or an external pedal shaft sensor. |
| US08205703B2 |
Deformable modular armored combat system
A modular, wheeled vehicle suitable for military use, includes a driver module having a width for seating one person and having length for seating a second (and optional third) person therebehind, and an engine module disposed behind the driver module containing an engine for powering the modular vehicle. The engine module has a rear surface adapted to receive a storage module. The driver module and the engine module form a central element having a pair of sides, a bottom, and a top. The central element is adapted to receive the modules on both of the central element sides. The central element has air inlet for personnel and for the engine disposed atop the central element. The bottom of the central element and troop side pods generally are V-shaped with slanted, upward extending sides. |
| US08205698B2 |
Vehicles and methods of controlling intake airflow
A saddle-type vehicle has an engine having an intake port, a fuel tank in fluid communication with the engine, and a heat shield. A snorkel defines a flow passage and a passage opening. The flow passage is in fluid communication with the passage opening and the intake port. The flow passage has an upstream portion that has a centerline. The heat shield at least partially defines a chamber in fluid communication with the passage opening. During operation, the engine draws air through the chamber, the passage opening, and the flow passage. The heat shield includes a reflecting wall extending at an oblique angle to the centerline. The reflecting wall is configured to reflect pressure pulses emanating from the passage opening, back through the passage opening, and toward the intake port during operation of the engine. |
| US08205695B2 |
Conformable track assembly for a robotic crawler
A suspension system for a lightweight robotic crawler is disclosed. The suspension system provides for mounting of a flexible endless track thereon. The suspension system includes a forward guide and a rearward guide around which the endless track can be looped. A deflector positioned between the forward guide and the rearward guide downwardly deflects a ground-engaging portion of the endless track to form a peaked area. The peaked area can support the lightweight robotic vehicle allowing alteration of a distribution of load over the ground-engaging portion of the endless track with respect to a supporting surface. |
| US08205692B2 |
Rock bit and inserts with a chisel crest having a broadened region
A drill bit for cutting a borehole comprises a bit body. In addition, the drill bit comprises a rolling cone cutter mounted on the bit body and adapted for rotation about a cone axis. Further, the drill bit comprises at least one insert having a base portion secured in the rolling cone cutter and a cutting portion extending therefrom. The cutting portion includes a pair of flanking surfaces that taper towards one another to form an elongate chisel crest including a first crest end, a second crest end, and an apex positioned therebetween. A transverse radius of curvature at the first crest end is less than a transverse radius of curvature at the apex, and a transverse radius of curvature at the second crest end is less than the transverse radius of curvature at the apex. |
| US08205689B2 |
Stabilizer and reamer system having extensible blades and bearing pads and method of using same
Drilling systems and methods for enlarging a borehole that include at least one expandable reamer and at least one expandable stabilizer axially spaced therefrom in a tubular string, such as a drill string, the at least one expandable reamer and the at least one expandable stabilizer being independently actuatable by different-sized actuation devices. A relatively lower tool is actuatable by a smaller actuation device, such as a drop ball, which passes through a relatively higher tool in the drill string without triggering the higher tool. |
| US08205686B2 |
Drill bit with adjustable axial pad for controlling torsional fluctuations
In an aspect, a drill bit is provided that includes a pad on a face section. The pad extends from the bottom section upon application of a force thereon and retracts upon the removal of the force to control fluctuations of the drill bit during drilling of a wellbore. |
| US08205684B2 |
Structural support for power tool housings
A pistol and/or clam shell style power tool housing. With respect to the pistol style housing, the tool housing includes a body defining a head portion with a handle portion depending therefrom to define a forward and/or a rear junction. A metal reinforcing member is configured to span along an inside surface of the body from the head portion to the handle portion such that the reinforcing member bridges either the forward or rear junction. In at least one embodiment, the reinforcing member is provided along each lateral side of the tool body. With respect to the clam shell style housing, with two opposed body halves interconnected to define the tool housing body, at least one continuous reinforcing ring is positioned about both halves of the tool housing body to prevent splitting between the two halves. |
| US08205683B2 |
Hand-held power tool, in particular electrically driven hand-held power tool
A handheld power tool has a housing having two separate housing parts, between which a primary damping element is disposed, wherein a secondary damping element is disposed acting parallel to said primary damping element. During regular function of the primary damping element, the secondary damping element is at least approximately force-free. In the event of a changed relative position between the two housing parts, the damping occurs via the secondary damping element. |
| US08205669B2 |
Fiber optic inner string position sensor system
The well condition during gravel packing is monitored and the gravel distribution condition is sent to the surface in real time through the preferred technique of a fiber optic line that wraps around the screens directly or indirectly on a surrounding tube around the screens. The fiber optic line has a breakaway connection that severs when the completion inner string is removed. A production string can then be run in to tag the fiber optic line through a wet connect to continue monitoring well conditions in the production phase. The fiber optic line can also be coiled above the packer so that relative movement of the inner string to the set packer can be detected and communicated to the surface in real time so as to know that the crossover has been moved the proper distance to, for example, get it from the gravel packing position to the reverse out position. |
| US08205668B2 |
Heat exchanger with disimilar metal properties
An exhaust gas recirculation cooler may include a housing and a first wall. The housing may include an exhaust gas region, a coolant region, an exhaust gas inlet, and an exhaust gas outlet. The first wall may be fixed within the housing and may separate the exhaust gas region from the coolant region. The first wall may include a first portion formed from a first material and facing the exhaust gas region and a second portion formed from a second material and facing the coolant region. One of the first and second materials may have a coefficient of thermal expansion that is greater than the other of the first and second materials. The first wall may be deflected toward one of the exhaust gas region and the coolant region during cooler operation based on a difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion of the first and second materials. |
| US08205666B2 |
Heat sinks and method of formation
A heat sink (and method of forming a heat sink) is provided that includes a core having a central axis and a plurality of cooling fins arranged about the core. Each fin has a base and a tip. The fins may be shaped to capture a tangential component of air from the fan. At least one portion (such as upper portion) of the fins may be bent. A lower portion of each fin may also be bent. |
| US08205665B2 |
Heat dissipation device
A heat dissipation device includes a heat sink having a first fin unit and a second fin unit adjoining each other. The first fin unit includes a plurality of parallel stacked first fins each including a main body and two flanges extending perpendicularly from two opposite sides of the main body. The second fin unit includes a plurality of parallel stacked second fins each including a main body and two flanges extending perpendicularly from two opposite sides of the main body. The first fin unit and the second fin unit are arranged back-to-back. The main body of an outmost first fin adjacent to the second fin unit abuts the main body of an outmost second fin adjacent to the first fin unit. An interval between two neighboring first fins is smaller than that between two neighboring second fins. |
| US08205663B2 |
Apparatus and method for monitoring and evaluating greensand molds
A device for determining the integrity of a greensand mold comprising two or more measurement sensors or plates on a support or supports. The support may comprise a frame straddling a mold production line between the mold machine and the pour station. When the production line is stopped, the measurement sensors or plates are extended to contact opposing sides of a mold and determine electrical characteristics of the mold, including capacitance and inductance. By comparing the electrical characteristics of the mold to the electrical characteristics of recently tested molds in the production line, a determination can be made whether the mold should be used at the pour station. |
| US08205661B2 |
Method and device for positioning at least one roll segment of a strand guiding unit against a strand
A method for adjusting a roll segment of a strand guide of a slab-casting installation against a strand, wherein the roll segment has an upper and a lower roll support that each have an adjusting element for adjusting the two roll supports relative to each other. The method includes individual control of the individual adjusting elements, wherein the actual profile of the strand, including the heights of the right and left lateral edges of the strand, is detected and compared with a set profile that includes a predetermined set height, which is the same for the right and left lateral edges, and the individual adjusting elements of the roll segment are individually controlled based on the control deviation that results from the comparison so that the actual profile is adapted to the set profile, including equalization of the heights of the right and left lateral edges of the strand. |
| US08205656B2 |
Adjustable awning support joint
An awning includes a support member, an extension member, and an adjustment device. The extension member has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The first end of the extension member couples with an edge of a cloth. The adjustment device includes at least two positioning frames coupled to the support member and a Y-shaped support frame disposed between the positioning frames. The Y-shaped support frame has an upper fork, a lower fork, and a base coupled to the second end of the extension member. The adjustment device is configured to pivotally move the extension member upward and downward. The longitudinal axis of the extension member is disposed at a range of angular positions relative to a horizontal axis. |
| US08205655B2 |
Vibration welding apparatus
A vibration welding apparatus vibrates a vibration-side processing member when the vibration-side processing member comes into pressure-contact with a fixing-side processing member, and the vibration-side processing member and the fixing-side processing member are welded. The vibration welding apparatus includes a first clamp unit for clamping the processing member on the vibration side, a second clamp unit for clamping the processing member on the fixing side, a vibration unit for vibrating the first clamp unit, and a release unit for releasing a state in which the first clamp unit clamps the vibration-side processing member. The first clamp unit moves a pressing member with elastic force of an elastic member, and presses the vibration-side processing member to clamp the vibration side processing member, and the release unit is disposed independently of the first clamp unit, and separates the vibration-side processing member pressed under the elastic force of the elastic member. |
| US08205654B2 |
Composite laminated structure reinforced by inserting pins, a method and a apparatus for making the same and a method for making the apparatus
A composite laminated structure is reinforced by inserting pins into a device for manufacturing a composite laminated structure. The device has a bottom guide on a composite laminated structure in a pre- or post-cured state. The device has first vertical pins that are inserted into the composite laminated structure. A top guide, on the bottom guide, has guide pins that are movable in a vertical direction at positions corresponding to the first pins. |
| US08205653B2 |
Apparatus for attaching substrates
A substrate bonding apparatus and method are provided. The substrate bonding apparatus may include a first support member that receives a first substrate, a second support member that receives a second substrate opposite the first support member, and a support pin located at the outside of the first substrate fixed to the first support member. The support pin may be connected to the first support member, and a distance adjustment device may move the support pin upward or downward to adjust the distance between the first support member and the second support member. |
| US08205647B2 |
Machine and device for supplying beverages in containers having different sizes and method therefor
The present invention relates to a machine (10) and adaptor device (18) for allowing supply of beverages in containers having different sizes at least in height. The device (18) is fixed to a component (15) of the machine (10) and comprises supporting means (53, 54) arranged to rotate substantially in a plane from a first position, in which the machine (10) is apt to supply the beverages in containers having a first height, to a second position in which the machine (10) is apt to supply the beverages in containers having a second height, lower than the first one. The device thanks to the simple construction can be equipped with a motor in order to rotate the supporting means (53, 54). The device (18) may be adapted also to machines in use. |
| US08205644B2 |
Industrial two-layer fabric
An industrial two-layer fabric constituted by at least one upper surface side warp to be woven with at least one upper surface side weft, at least one lower surface side warp to be woven with at least one lower surface side weft, and at least one warp binding yarn to be woven with the at least one upper surface side weft and the at least one lower surface side weft having at least one pair of upper and lower warps in which the upper and lower surface side warps are located to be upper and lower, respectively, and at least one pair of warp binding yarns in which at least one yarn constitutes a warp binding yarn. |
| US08205640B2 |
Check valve, fluid device, and pump
A check valve is housed in a valve chamber and includes a support portion and a flexible portion. The support portion extends along a principal axis thereof. The flexible portion is supported by the support portion in a manner extending from the principal axis. A diaphragm defines a lower wall of the valve chamber, and includes an inflow port for fluid at a position that is closed with the flexible portion when the flexible portion is displaced. A bottom plate defines an upper wall of the valve chamber, and faces the diaphragm with the flexible portion arranged therebetween. An uneven portion is provided in at least one of mutually facing areas of an upper principal surface, which is one of two principal surfaces of the flexible portion and faces the bottom plate, and a lower principal surface of the bottom plate, the uneven portion being partially uneven. |
| US08205636B2 |
Flow rate control valve
In a pressure compensation type flow rate control valve, overshoot of a flow rate when an upstream pressure is abruptly increased is suppressed. A first variable orifice 11 is provided on the side of an inflow opening and a second variable orifice 15 is provided on the side of an outflow opening. As the spool 3 is displaced from its initial position by a pressure of fluid entering when the upstream fluid pressure is increased, the opening of the first variable orifice 11 is gradually reduced, and the opening of the second variable orifice 15 is gradually increased. Since the second variable orifice 15 on the side of the outflow opening is previously reduced, even if the upstream pressure is abruptly increased, fluid more than a predetermined amount does not flow out toward the downstream. |
| US08205635B2 |
Flowmeter and flow-rate controller
A flowmeter in which a flow rate can be measured over a wide flow-rate range while an increase in the cost of manufacture thereof is minimized, and a flow-rate controller equipped with such a flowmeter are provided. Provided are an upstream-side pressure sensor that measures the pressure of a fluid in an upstream-side channel, a downstream-side pressure sensor that measures the pressure of the fluid in a downstream-side channel, a first throttle section disposed between the upstream-side channel and the downstream-side channel and having a channel area that is smaller than that of at least the upstream-side channel, a bypass channel branching off from between the upstream-side pressure sensor in the upstream-side channel and the first throttle section and connected with the downstream-side channel, an on/off valve that controls the flow rate of the fluid flowing through the bypass channel, and a second throttle section disposed between the bypass channel and the downstream-side channel and having a channel area that is smaller than that of at least the bypass channel. |
| US08205633B2 |
Collets for use with valves
Collets for coupling rotary actuators to valves are disclosed. An example collet includes a plurality of flexible members configured to be coupled to an elongated member and each having an inner surface that forms at least a portion of a substantially rectangular bore configured to receive a rectangular shaft. The plurality of flexible members form an involute outer surface for engaging an involute inner surface of an opening of a lever. The opening of the lever is configured to cause the plurality of flexible members to be displaced toward an axis of the elongated member to cause the inner surface of each of the plurality of flexible members to engage one or more surfaces of the rectangular shaft. |
| US08205631B2 |
Active material actuated vent valve
A relief valve and related systems and methods have particular use in fluid distribution lines. The relief valve comprises a body defining a cavity and comprising at least first and second openings in fluid communication with the cavity. A connector piece is connected to the body at the first opening to connect the valve to a fluid distribution line. A rupture disc is disposed within and obstructs the first opening. When it is desired that fluid from the fluid distribution line be vented from the system, the rupture disc is punctured via activation of an active material initiator and thereby allows for fluid communication through the first opening of the valve. |
| US08205627B2 |
Quick folding structure for a post unit of a tent frame
A quick folding structure for a post unit of a tent frame includes upper, middle and lower posts, an upper connector, and a lower connector. The upper connector is disposed between the upper and middle posts and includes a first upper connecting portion and a second upper connecting portion. The lower connector is disposed between the middle and lower posts and includes a first lower connecting portion and a second lower connecting portion. A wire rope has a first end secured to the first upper connecting portion and a second end connected to a pin. A spring and the pin are disposed in a ladder-shaped trough of the first lower connecting portion. Two ends of the spring engage with the ladder-shaped trough and a first end of the pin, respectively. A second end of the pin faces an engaging notch of the second lower connecting portion. |
| US08205625B2 |
Apparatus and method for surface treatment of substrate, and substrate processing apparatus and method
A surface treatment apparatus of a substrate can clean a substrate surface in the air without employing a vacuum apparatus, and can remove a natural oxide film or an organic material, such as BTA, from the substrate surface without resorting to plasma cleaning. The surface treatment apparatus includes: an inert gas supply section for supplying an inert gas to the whole or part of a substrate surface to form an oxygen-blocking zone; a heating section for keeping the substrate surface at a predetermined temperature; and a cleaning gas supply section for supplying a cleaning gas to the oxygen-blocking zone to clean the substrate surface. |
| US08205620B2 |
Two piece anvil for surgical stapler
A surgical stapling apparatus includes a stapling assembly including a staple cartridge for retaining and selectively releasing a plurality of staples, a forming member engageable by a staple during formation thereof, and first and second anvil sections for forming the staples. The first and second anvil sections are configured for independent actuation. A method of stapling first and second sections of tissue is also disclosed. |
| US08205613B2 |
Piston dosing pump
A preferably pulverulent formulation to be dosed is received in a dosing chamber having a partly gas-permeable wall. The introduction and discharge of the formulation is achieved by means of a pumping device that alternately generates a negative pressure and an excess pressure in the dosing chamber. The dosing chamber can also be displaced between a receiving position and a discharge position by means of a piston, the piston controlling the negative and excess pressure in the dosing chamber. Furthermore, the size of the dosing chamber is adjustable. |
| US08205608B2 |
Hydrogen elimination and thermal energy generation in water-activated chemical heaters
Less hazardous methods for generating thermal energy for heating water, medical supplies or comestible products using improved flameless chemical heaters/flameless ration heaters by novel chemical or electrochemical means, each capable of suppressing the generation of hydrogen gas. Remote unit self-heating meals may be more rapidly heated by forming a reaction mixture comprising magnesium or a magnesium-containing alloy, and a hydrogen eliminator or suppressor, and introducing water to react the reaction mixture and generate a more rapid release of thermal energy sufficient to effectuate a more accelerated temperature rise and more rapid heating of medical supplies, water, rations or other comestible substances while simultaneously suppressing or eliminating the generation of potentially hazardous hydrogen. |
| US08205606B2 |
Model for inferring temperature of exhaust gas at an exhaust manifold using temperature measured at entrance of a diesel oxidation catalyst
An engine processor (38) processes data for inferring temperature of exhaust gas at an exhaust manifold (18) of an internal combustion engine (10) whose exhaust system (16) contains an after-treatment device (26, 28) for treating exhaust gas and a sensor (30) for providing data for temperature of exhaust gas entering the after-treatment device. The processor processes data from the sensor and other data to infer temperature of exhaust gas at the exhaust manifold by executing an algorithm (FIGS. 3 and 4) that models temperature of exhaust gas at the exhaust manifold as a function of data from the sensor and the other data, including certain constants, certain geometry of the exhaust system, and certain variables related to operation of the engine. |
| US08205599B2 |
System and method for cleaning solenoid valve debris
An engine control system includes an active fuel management (AFM) control module that selectively enables and disables an AFM mode using at least one AFM valve. The engine control system further includes a solenoid fault correction module that selectively opens and closes at least one AFM valve when AFM mode is disabled. |
| US08205598B2 |
Fuel injector nozzle
A nozzle (10) for a fuel injector of an engine includes a generally cylindrical housing (16) having a valve passage (28) disposed generally longitudinally along the centerline C of the housing and extending from a top surface (12) of the housing. An annular groove (40) is disposed in the top surface (12) of the housing (16) and is concentrically disposed about the valve passage (28). A plurality of high pressure passages (44) are disposed in the annular groove (40). The high pressure passages (44) fluidly communicate with the valve passage at a junction chamber (34). A nozzle tip (24) is in fluid communication with the junction chamber (34). |
| US08205596B2 |
Fuel injection device for an internal combustion engine
The fuel injection device for an internal combustion engine comprises a feed pump which has an electric drive, by which feed pump fuel is fed from a fuel storage tank into a low-pressure region to the suction side of at least one high-pressure pump. The high-pressure pump pumps fuel into a high-pressure region in which at least one injector is provided to inject the fuel into the internal combustion engine. The fuel injection is controlled by an electric control device. Arranged in the low-pressure region is a pressure sensor which is connected to the control device. The electric drive of the feed pump is activated by the control device in order to set a feed quantity of the feed pump which is variable as a function of at least one operating parameter of the internal combustion engine and/or of the high-pressure pump. The drive of the feed pump is in particular activated by the control device in such a way that, at a high load of the internal combustion engine and/or at a high rotational speed and/or at a high fuel temperature, a greater fuel quantity is fed by the feed pump into the low-pressure region than at a low load and/or a low rotational speed and/or a low fuel temperature. |
| US08205594B2 |
Genset control system having predictive load management
A control system is provided for a generator set coupled to supply electrical power to an external load. The control system may have an input device configured to receive input indicative of a desired adjustment to the external load, and a power control device operable to affect a power output of the generator set. The control system may also have a controller in communication with the input device and the power control device. The controller may be configured to determine a change in the power output of the generator set corresponding to the desired adjustment to the external load, and to operate the power control device to implement the change in power output of the generator set before the desired adjustment to the external load is initiated. |
| US08205593B2 |
DEV cycle engine
Method and apparatus to improve the efficiency of internal combustion engines in which compression and combustion of an Air/Fuel mixture is carried out without a compression stroke as used in conventional internal combustion engines and expansion of the combusted mixture is performed to increase the expansion ratio resulting in an increase in the amount of work extracted. An externally compressed Air/Fuel Mixture is combusted in a variable volume combustion chamber and expanded into a conventional cylinder displacing a power piston to produce rotation of a crankshaft to drive a vehicle or other device. Separation of the variable volume combustion chamber from the conventional cylinder eliminates the conventional Otto Cycle compression stroke and provides a substantially larger expansion ratio than the compression ratio in a conventional engine. |
| US08205592B2 |
Noise abatement engine cover
An engine cover and method of making the same with a textured surface with an in-mold coating. A noise abatement cover for top of an engine has a textured, in-mold coated, high quality outer appearance with a core of medium density polyurethane. The method of making the cover includes applying a mold release to grained aluminum tool and applying coating to at least one side of the grained aluminum tool to form an in-mold coating on the resulting engine cover, which is preferably a single piece. |
| US08205591B2 |
Piston for an internal combustion engine
The present invention relates to a piston (10) for an internal combustion engine having a piston head (11) and a piston skirt (16) with piston hubs (17) which are each connected to a hub bore (18) for receiving a piston bolt, wherein the piston hubs (17) are in the shape of a trapezoidal or step-shaped support in which the inner faces (19) of the piston hubs (17) include an acute angle (αa) with the central axis (M) of the piston. The invention provides that each hub bore (18) is embodied as a shaped bore which is widened at least in its inner area in such a way that the widened portion increases in size in the direction of the inner end (18′) of the hub bore (18) forming facets (120, 220) on the lateral surface (18) of the hub bore (18), and that the facets (120, 220) include an acute angle (αa, β) with the central axis (M) of the piston. |
| US08205590B2 |
Intake manifold for multiple-cylinder internal combustion engine
An intake manifold has a collective part defining an intake gas distribution chamber, and a branch intake part having a plurality of branch intake passages. The collective part includes a first section and a second section joined together to form the intake gas distribution chamber. First and a second corner parts are formed integrally with the first section and the second section, respectively. The second section is provided with a guide wall extending in both the first and second sections to cover the respective inside surfaces of the first and second corner parts. The guide wall has a guide surface for guiding the intake gas. |
| US08205588B2 |
Variable valve-actuating mechanism for an internal combustion engine, and engine incorporating same
In an internal combustion engine, a variable valve-actuating mechanism includes a trigger pin operable to permit axial movement of a rocker arm concurrently with a axial movement of a rocker arm shaft. A retention member has an insertion aperture formed therein, in which the trigger pin is inserted, and which slidably supports the trigger pin in the inserting direction. The trigger pin includes upper and lower expanded portions disposed on both sides thereof in the inserting direction. The upper and lower expanded portions of the trigger pin are operable to disable sliding motion of the trigger pin, relative to the retention member, beyond a predetermined range. The upper and lower expanded portions allow the trigger pin to be integrally assembled in the insertion aperture of the retention member, so as to be selectively retained therein. |
| US08205585B2 |
Variable valve gear for internal combustion engine
In a variable valve gear for an internal combustion engine provided with a camshaft phase change mechanism for variably controlling opening and closing timings of an intake valve, the camshaft phase change mechanism and a variable valve lift mechanism are controlled so that the closing timing of the intake valve is advanced beyond a predetermined range T1 including a bottom dead center when a load L of the internal combustion engine is less than a first predetermined value L1 and that the closing timing of the intake valve is delayed beyond the predetermined range T1 when the load L of the internal combustion engine is not less than the first predetermined value L1. |
| US08205580B2 |
Pet waste capture device
A pet waste capture device includes a harness and a collection container where the harness fits around the pet to secure the collection container in position. The harness may include straps and elastic bands to comfortably and securely fit to the pet. The collection container may be removable. |
| US08205578B2 |
Animal toy with squeaker
An animal toy includes a compressibly elastically deformable hollow thin-walled elastomer core sealingly circumscribing a center, includes an exterior including a first gravure elastomer relief surface and a second surface, includes a wall less than about eight millimeters thick, and includes points on the exterior at varying distances from the center. A fabric cover is affixed to the second surface and has a selected thickness, the ratio of the thickness of the fabric cover to the thickness of the wall being in the range of 1:6 to 1:0.15.A line of demarcation separates the exterior into at least two areas. |
| US08205576B2 |
Animal litter containing twisted paper rods and method of providing a domesticated animal with mental stimulation
An animal litter is provided for simultaneously delivering urine-absorbent and mental-stimulating properties of the litter. The litter includes in combination a plurality of urine-absorbent particles forming a litter particulate component and a plurality of unfoldable polymeric cylinders constituting a polymeric cylinder component and intermixed with the urine-absorbent particles. The polymeric cylinders have a mean cylinder height of between 1 and 30 millimeters, a ratio of cylinder height to cylinder diameter of 1:1 to 12:1, and a strip length to cylinder height ratio of greater than 10:1. The litter particulate component is present relative to the cylinders in a volume ratio of 1:1 to 25:1. The litter provides mental stimulation and boredom reduction of a caged animal. |
| US08205569B2 |
Anchor
An anchor includes a base member (10), having a leading end or toe (26), associated therewith, the base member (10) being formed from opposed, interconnected substantially triangular shaped flukes (20, 30), and a shank member (100) extending upwardly therefrom and attached thereto. The lateral and rear free edge of each fluke (20, 30) have extensions (22, 32 and 23, 33) associated therewith and depending angularly therefrom. All free edges of the anchor are other than blunt. The base member (10) includes one or more apertures, slots or discontinuing extending therethrough. |
| US08205563B2 |
Aircraft table system with rolling sled member
An aircraft table system includes a table member configured to move reversibly from an undeployed position to a deployed position, coupled to a movable sled member. The system may further include one or more rollers in conjunction with one or more guide rails to facilitate the motion of the sled member. The system may further include a spine member with one or more holes in conjunction with one or more bolts and one or more cables to hold the sled and table members in place. The system may further include a spine member in conjunction with one or more spring reel elements and one or more cables to impart an assisting or resisting force on the sled member. |
| US08205559B2 |
Self-righting, two-wheel pipe crawler
An apparatus for transporting a payload along the inside of a substantially horizontal pipe, which apparatus includes a pair of spaced apart, vertically aligned, relationally pivotably connected, rollable pipe tracking contactors, wherein pivoting of one of the pipe tracking contactors in a first direction results in pivoting of the other pipe tracking contactor in a direction opposite to the first direction. The apparatus further includes a control system which is used to maintain the vertical alignment of the pipe tracking contactors and which includes a two-dimensional tilt sensor that provides information to a controller regarding the orientation of the apparatus. Using the information from the sensor, the controller is able to correct both the lateral position and the speed of the contactors to bring the apparatus back into vertical alignment. |
| US08205556B1 |
Accuracy less lethal projectile
A less lethal projectile comprising a hollow body filled with a high density filler, a closure to seal the filler in the body and a bore-rider stabilizer, attached to the rear of the closure. The bore rider stabilizer comprises a material having a low coefficient of friction. |
| US08205555B1 |
Energy harvesting power sources for assisting in the recovery/detonation of unexploded munitions
A method is provided for recovering and/or exploded an unexploded munition. The method including: providing the munition with a power supply having a piezoelectric material for generating power from an induced vibration; inducing a vibration; monitoring an output from the power supply after the power supply has stopped generating power from a firing of the munition; and generating a beacon signal or detonation signal upon the detection of the output. |
| US08205554B2 |
Firing apparatus for a pyrotechnic protection apparatus
The invention relates to an apparatus, in particular a firing apparatus (1) for a pyrotechnic protection apparatus, in particular an airbag or belt pretensioner, comprising: a power leadthrough, in particular a metal fixing material leadthrough (2), comprising a base body (8) which is provided with a passage opening (7), and at least one metal pin (6) which is arranged in the passage opening (7) in the base body (8) in a fixing material (6); a housing part (19, 4) which at least partially accommodates the power leadthrough so as to form a space for accommodating a propellant charge (5); a casing (22) which at least partially surrounds the power leadthrough (2), the metal pin (6) and the housing part (19, 4); wherein the base body (8) has a thickness D in the range of from 2.0 mm to 0.1 mm, preferably in the range of from less than 1.0 mm to 0.1 mm, in particular less than 0.8 mm to 0.5 mm, and means (27) are provided on the metal pin (6) in such a way that the casing (22) engages with the metal pin, wherein the casing and the base body together absorb a pull-out force of the metal pin which is greater than 150 N, in particular greater than 165 N, preferably greater than 200 N, in particular greater than 250 N, in particular greater than 300 N. |
| US08205552B2 |
System and method for forming debit card using improved print cylinder mechanism
A flexographic printing station prints at least one print stripe of opaque scratch-off coating onto the surface of the card over a PIN as a card member is advanced into a printing station. A print cylinder has a circumferential printing surface that engages an Anilox metering roll and receives the scratch-off coating therefrom and transfers the scratch-off coating from the printing surface onto the surface of the debit card. A controller controls movement of the print cylinder via a mounting mechanism into and out of engagement with the surface of the debit card at a predetermined location and for a predetermined length of time to apply at least one print stripe of predetermined length onto the surface of the debit card based on the length of time the printing surface engages the surface of the debit card. |
| US08205548B2 |
Method of winding up transfer film and device for performing transfer printing on printed sheets of paper
There is provided a method of winding up a transfer film and a device for performing transfer printing on printed sheets of paper, capable of eliminating the need to frequently replace the transfer film, thereby allowing the transfer film to be used over a prolonged time. According to the method of winding up a transfer film, the transfer film fed from a feed roll through a feed path is pressed onto a fed printed sheet to transfer patterns of the transfer film, and then the transfer film is wound up onto a windup roll through a windup path. During the rewind of the transfer film from the windup roll to the feed roll, a lateral position of the transfer film running along the feed path is detected, and the feed roll is moved in its axial direction to follow a lateral positional change of the transfer film. |
| US08205542B2 |
Integrated beverage infuser lid
An integrated beverage infuser and lid are adapted for use with an insulated drinking vessel for brewing a consumable product, such as tea, in an insulated travel mug, tumbler, or the like. The lid includes a main body adapted for movable receipt on a drinking vessel that forms a downwardly directed, open-ended cavity. A fluid-permeable brewing basket defines an enclosable receptacle for removable receipt of the brewing consumable product. The basket is movable between a stowed position, substantially within the cavity above the liquid level of the hot water in the tumbler, and a deployed position, below and substantially outside of the cavity for submersion in the hot water contained in the drinking vessel. A lever arm forms a part of the transfer mechanism and has a portion that penetrates the main body to the outside thereof so that the transfer mechanism can be operated by an individual without removing the lid from the insulated drinking vessel, tumbler, or the like. |
| US08205540B2 |
Piston-cylinder unit
The invention pertains to a piston-cylinder unit for a hinged lid, especially a motor vehicle hinged lid, with a closed first end, a cylinder, a piston installed in the cylinder with freedom to slide back and forth, the piston dividing the cylinder into a working chamber remote from the first end and a second working near the first end; and a piston rod, which is attached to one side of the piston, projects through the first working chamber, and passes out of the cylinder concentrically to the central longitudinal axis of the cylinder through a guide and sealing device at the second end opposite the first end, where a first locking element is provided on the piston rod, and a second locking element is provided on the cylinder to establish a mechanical interlock, and where one of the locking elements comprises a sleeve, which cooperates with the other locking element to establish an interlock. |
| US08205537B1 |
Interceptor projectile with net and tether
An interceptor projectile includes a deployable net that deploys during flight and wraps around an incoming projectile, such as a rocket propelled grenade (RPG). The net is initially in a tubular body of the interceptor projectile. A propellant is used to deploy the net from the body. Even after deployment the net remains attached to the body by an elastic tether. The engagement of the net with the incoming projectile disables the incoming projectile, with the momentum imparted by the interceptor projectile sending the incoming projectile off course. This successfully defends a target against the incoming projectile. Through the tether, substantially all of the parts of the interceptor projectile may be mechanically linked together even after deployment of the net. This mechanical linking provides more momentum for impacting the interceptor projectile, which may facilitate diverting the incoming projectile. |
| US08205533B2 |
Saw blade protectors
A saw blade protector for a cutting device having a table for placing thereon a workpiece, a saw blade protruding from an upper surface of the table, and a riving knife disposed in front of the saw blade in a moving direction of the workpiece for cutting the workpiece and positioned in line with the saw blade. The saw blade protector includes a guard plate constructed to cover the saw blade, a holding frame constructed to be mounted on an upper portion of the riving knife and to be able to support the guard plate, and an adjusting device constructed to be able to adjust a position of the holding frame relative to the upper surface of the table. |
| US08205532B2 |
Method of cutting tow
A cutting apparatus to cut a tow includes a tow support, first blade, and tow support deflector. The tow support supports the tow. The first blade cuts the tow. The tow support deflector is disposed in cooperative alignment with the first blade to exert a deflecting force upon the tow support. The deflecting force substantially prevents the first blade from striking the tow support. |
| US08205528B1 |
Wire stripper adaption
A wire stripper adaption as disclosed comprises an output limiter to limit a splitting point of an insulation from an insulated wire at a first predetermined distance. The output limiter is suspended in any position radial to the wire leaving the wire stripper. An input guide is configured to axially align the insulated wire entering the wire stripper at a second predetermined distance radial to the wire entering the wire stripper. One of a circular hole and a semicircular hole defined in a body or the wire stripper itself cuts the insulation around the wire as it is circularly passed around a sharpened edge of the hole. The body defines three hole pairs configured to position an elongate cutting blade in the body for an operator to sharpen a first end of the elongate blade and a first and second beveled edges at an acute angle to the first end. |
| US08205525B2 |
Rotational vibration damper
The invention relates to a rotational vibration damper for a crankshaft of a piston engine. The rotational vibration damper comprises a hub which defines an axis of rotation, and a mass member which, via at least one spring element, is coupled to a hub and is able to rotationally vibrate freely relative to the hub. The mass member is annular in shape and is arranged coaxially relative to the hub, wherein the at least one spring element made of steel is provided in the form of a bendable spring. |
| US08205524B2 |
Torque limiting handle assembly
A torque limiting handle assembly is described. One member of a two member torque limiting handle assembly has resiliently depending legs extending about its rotational axis. The second member has features arranged such that on rotation of the first member, the features contact the legs so that when a reaction torque of the second member is less than a threshold value, the second member rotates with the first member and when a reaction torque of the second member is greater than the threshold value, the legs resiliently deflect so that the features simply pass across the legs and the second member does not rotate with the first member. |
| US08205521B2 |
Dual clutch transmission with a device for preventing double engagement
A dual clutch transmission may include: a control bar including a hole; a first rail and a second rail that are respectively disposed along the control bar; first springs biasing the first rail and the second rail respectively; a first stopper and a second stopper that are mounted in respective inner grooves of the first rail and the second rail; second springs that elastically support the stoppers and insert the stoppers into the hole according to the movement of the rails; and a first release rug and a second release rug selectively holding the stoppers. |
| US08205520B2 |
Gear arrangement
To render a gear arrangement for a transmission as quiet as possible but nevertheless able to handle heavy loads, a first gear made of a first material and a second gear made of a second material sit loosely next to one another on a common shaft. The elasticity of the first gear, preferably made of plastic, is chosen to be greater than that of the second gear, preferably made of metal, while the strength of the second gear is chosen to be greater than that of the first gear. Because the second gear preferably exhibits a slightly smaller toothing than the first gear, only the first gear comes into engagement with another gear in normal operation. As the load increases, the first gear made of plastic yields in the elastic range so that now the second gear made of metal also comes into engagement in order to accept the forces occurring and thereby protect the first gear against overloading and fracture. The gear arrangement is generally suitable for transmissions, for example for planetary transmissions. |
| US08205519B2 |
Ball screw
A ball screw drive which has a ball nut arranged on a spindle. The ball nut has a nut element and a deflecting element that deflects balls out of one end of an endless ball channel defined by the ball nut and the spindle to a beginning of the ball channel. The deflecting element is retained on the nut element through a clip. At least one clip leg of the clip has a first, resiliently biased section and a second section separated from the first section by a slit. The first section resiliently suspends the deflecting element on the nut element and the second section retains the clip inseparably on the deflecting element. |
| US08205517B2 |
Motor-driven actuator
A motor-driven actuator is provided that can prevent generation of hitting sound due to rattling of an output shaft of a motor. The motor-driven actuator is equipped with a motor with an output shaft, worm attached to the output shaft, and rotation member with a worm wheel engaging with the worm inside a case, wherein a bearing member equipped with a regulating face adjacent to a top end of said output shaft and intergrading by biasing force of a spring in a manner said regulating face pushes the top end of said output shaft into the direction of thrust is provided. |
| US08205516B2 |
Speed control method of automatic transmission
A speed control method for an automatic transmission includes a first synchronizing process, in which a first clutch portion is operated to be in an engaging state in order to synchronize a first input shaft to a power source, a second synchronizing process, in which the first input shaft is synchronized to the output shaft by operating a gear train connected the first input shaft so as to be in an engaging state, after the first clutch portion is operated so as to be in the disengaging state and a torque transmission path switchover process for switching a torque transmitting path from a second input shaft to the first input shaft by operating the first clutch portion so as to be in an engaging state while the second clutch portion is operated so as to be in an disengaging state. |
| US08205515B2 |
Rack bushing for an automotive steering system
A bushing for use in a hollow tube housing of a rack and pinion steering system. The bushing is formed as a generally cylindrical body having a central aperture and a circular cantilevered flange that extends outward from the body of the bushing. The flange contains a leading surface for compression contact with a corresponding interfering surface on the hollow interior of the rack housing. The flange is disposed to continuously compress a portion of its leading surface against a portion of the interfering surface on the hollow interior of the housing over a predetermined range of temperatures when the bushing is installed in the housing, and thereby providing thermal compensation to maintain a seal. |
| US08205513B2 |
Closure device and method for operating the closure device
A closure device including a fill chamber housing, which forms an edge for a hollow cross-section of a fill chamber, and at least one shut-off valve having a through-passage, the valve being displaceable between an open position and a closed position by a guide gap transversely to a filler chamber longitudinal direction. In the open position, the shut-off valve with the through-passage thereof forms a passage of a fill chamber cross-section, and in the closed position the shut-off valve closes the fill chamber cross-section. A cleaning chamber is formed, the chamber height of which is greater than the gap height of the guide gap, and the position of the chamber is associated with the shut-off valve such that the edge of the through-passage is located in the cleaning chamber in the closed position. |
| US08205509B2 |
Rotating flow meter using passive non-permanent magnet markers
A flow meter for measuring the velocity of surrounding fluid, comprising a rotatable member rotatably coupled to a shaft member, wherein the shaft member comprises a measuring electrical circuit comprising an AC power supply and a primary coil, the rotatable member comprising a passive non-permanent magnet marker responsive to a magnetic field, the arrangement being such that when the circuit is powered by the AC supply the coil generates a magnetic field and the marker is positioned on the rotatable member such that rotation of the rotatable member in response to fluid drag on the member causes the distance between the marker and the coil to oscillate, the marker interacting with the magnetic field at its closest approach to the coil, thereby to cause a measurable electrical response in the circuit. Thus, the speed of rotation of the rotatable member can be determined by measuring an electrical response in the circuit without physically contacting the rotatable member and without involving a permanent magnet is provided. |
| US08205503B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting the rotational speed of a rotary member
The speed of rotation of a rotary member such as a compressor or turbine wheel of a turbocharger is determined by directing an ultrasonic signal into a blade cavity and receiving the reflected signal, which is amplitude modulated by virtue of the passage of the blades across the ultrasonic transducer. The received signal is demodulated to determine the frequency of amplitude modulation of the received signal caused by passage of blades between the first and second locations. This enables the speed of rotation to be calculated. The performance of the turbocharger can thus be optimised in the context of the overall engine system via an engine control module. |
| US08205502B2 |
Plant biosensor and method
A system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a plurality of electrodes communicatively coupled to an electromagnetically sensitive bio-organism isolated from electrostatic energy and control logic configured to detect at least one signal from the electrodes and determine, based upon the at least one signal, whether seismic activity is present, the at least one signal indicative of an action potential in the bio-organism. |
| US08205499B2 |
Method and apparatus for checking an acoustic test fixture
A body has a first portion whose exterior surface is similar to that of a corresponding, first portion of a portable media device. An acoustic aperture is formed at a location that is similar to that of a built-in earpiece, speaker, or microphone aperture in the media device. An acoustic port is formed in the exterior surface of the body, and is adapted to be coupled to a sound test tool. An internal cavity acoustically couples the acoustic port to the acoustic aperture. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US08205494B2 |
Machine for balancing vehicle wheels
The machine for balancing vehicle wheels comprises a base frame supporting a substantially horizontal balancing spindle, a lifting device for lifting a vehicle wheel to be fitted/removed to/from the balancing spindle, contact-free reading means of the profile of the tire associated with the base frame, and a processing and control unit operatively associated with the lifting device and with the reading means and suitable for calculating the position of the center of the wheel in accordance with the values read by the reading means, and for stopping the lifting device in an end-of-lifting position, in which the wheel center is substantially at the same height as the balancing spindle. |
| US08205492B2 |
Precipitation collector
A precipitation collector includes a container having a container space for containing precipitation received through a container opening. The container includes a discharge outlet fluidly coupled to a valve to define selectively operable outlet of the collector for selectively discharging the received precipitation. A lid partially covering the container opening and includes a lid passage which defines a collector inlet disposed in fluid communication with the container space through the container opening such that the lid passage provides a passage for entry of environmental precipitation into the container space. The container includes an overflow outlet configured for discharging an overflow of the received precipitation collected within the container space. |
| US08205490B2 |
Pressure sensor for measurements in a chamber of an internal combustion engine
A pressure sensor for measurements in a chamber of an internal combustion engine, in particular a pressure-measuring glowplug, comprises a housing, a pressure element for picking up a pressure, and a measuring element arranged in the housing downstream of the pressure element in the direction of the pressure and having a sensor element and a diaphragm. This diaphragm is permanently connected at its first end to the pressure element, and at its second end it is directly or indirectly permanently connected to the housing at a connection, with the pressure element being supported on the measuring element via the diaphragm. |
| US08205489B2 |
Knocking determination device and knocking determination method for internal combustion engine
An engine ECU executes a program including: detecting a magnitude of vibration of an engine; detecting a vibration waveform of the engine based on the magnitude; calculating a correlation coefficient, in the case where the engine speed is smaller than a threshold value, using the sum of values each determined by subtracting a positive reference value from a magnitude of a knock waveform model, as an area of the knock waveform model and, calculating the correlation coefficient, in the case where the engine speed is not smaller than the threshold value, using the area of the whole knock waveform model; and determining whether or not knocking has occurred using the correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficient is calculated by dividing by the area the sum of differences that are each the difference between the magnitude on the vibration waveform and the magnitude on the knock waveform model. |
| US08205484B2 |
Apparatus and method for leak testing
A leak testing apparatus 1 includes a heat sensitive member 70 having a body 71 made of a material having high thermal conductivity. The body 71 is abutted against an outer surface of a workpiece 10 to close an opening of an inner space 11 of the workpiece 10. A pressure chamber 73 is formed inside the body 71 as arranged along the outer surface and as arranged over an area wider than the opening. Pressurized gas is introduced to the pressure chamber 73. Data on pressure change in the inner space 11 of the workpiece 10 is compensated based on inner pressure information regarding the pressure chamber 73, and leak judgment is made. |
| US08205480B2 |
Measuring device
The measuring device 1 includes a measurement vessel 13 contained a liquid 12 filled therein, and a sensor 11 provided in the measuring vessel 13 and for detecting components of a gaseous sample dissolved in the liquid 12. The measuring device 1 also includes a bubble-generating unit 14, which is supplied with a gaseous sample and has an aperture 141 for discharging the gaseous sample in form of bubbles into the liquid. The aperture 141 faces the sensor 11 and the bubble-generating unit 14 is disposed to have a predetermined clearance with the sensor 11. A relation of 1/2Y≦X≦3/2Y is satisfied, where X represents a distance of a clearance between the bubble-generating unit 14 and the sensor 11 and Y represents a diameter of the aperture 141 of the bubble-generating unit 14. |
| US08205476B2 |
Shape correcting components
A method of correcting the shape of a brittle cast component such as a low pressure turbine blade. The method includes steps of placing the component against a creep mold having a surface defining the desired profile of the component and HIP treating it to creep deform the component to the desired shape whilst consolidating it and removing gas and shrinkage porosity. |
| US08205471B2 |
Device for allowing addition and replacement of jewelry strands
A device for allowing jewelry strands to be added or replaced with two interlocking arms, two rotating members, two knobs, and a shaft. The closed end of each interlocking arm is attached to a rotating member, the shaft extends through an aperture in each rotating member, and a knob is situated on each end of the shaft. The two interlocking arms are roughly the same size. The interlocking arms are positioned one on top of the other such that they form a closed shape when the interlocking arms are in a closed position. The rotating members rotate about the shaft, thereby causing the interlocking arms to rotate relative to one another. |
| US08205464B2 |
Refrigeration device
A refrigeration device includes a compression mechanism, a radiator, a first expansion mechanism, a liquid receiver, a second expansion mechanism, an evaporator, a pressure detector, a temperature detector, and a control unit. The pressure detector is provided between the refrigerant discharge side of the compression mechanism and the refrigerant inflow side of the first expansion mechanism. The temperature detector is provided between the exit side of the radiator and the refrigerant inflow side of the first expansion mechanism. The control unit controls the first expansion mechanism using the pressure detected by the pressure detector and the temperature detected by the temperature detector so that the refrigerant flowing out from the first expansion mechanism reaches a saturated state. |
| US08205460B2 |
Batch freezer with cleaning system
A batch freezer for frozen food products comprises — a freezing cylinder, — a dasher designed to propel the product toward a discharge port of the cylinder, and — ma refrigeration unit arranged for cooling the cylinder, wherein the discharge port can be selectively connected to a cleaning pipe leading from the discharge port into the casing of the batch freezer. |
| US08205458B2 |
Duplex turbine nozzle
A duplex turbine nozzle includes a row of different first and second vanes alternating circumferentially between radially outer and inner bands in vane doublets having axial splitlines therebetween. The vanes have opposite pressure and suction sides spaced apart in each doublet to define an inboard flow passage therebetween, and corresponding outboard flow passages between doublets. The vanes have different patterns of film cooling holes with larger cooling flow density along the outboard passages than along the inboard passages. |
| US08205455B2 |
Power plant and method of operation
A power plant and method of operation is provided. The power plant comprises at least one main air compressor, an oxidizer unit configured to deliver a compressed oxygen-rich gas flow to at least one gas turbine assembly. Each assembly comprises a turbine combustor for mixing the compressed oxygen-rich gas flow with a recirculated gas flow and a fuel stream to burn a combustible mixture and form the recirculated gas flow. The assembly also comprises a recirculation loop for recirculating the recirculated gas flow from a turbine to a turbine compressor. The assembly further comprises a recirculated gas flow extraction path for extracting a portion of the recirculated gas flow from the assembly and delivering this to a gas separation system. The gas separation system separates the portion of the recirculated gas flow into a nitrogen portion and a carbon dioxide portion. |
| US08205454B2 |
Convergent divergent nozzle with edge cooled divergent seals
A nozzle system includes a multitude of circumferentially distributed divergent seals that circumscribe an engine centerline. Each divergent seal includes a multiple of divergent seal intakes adjacent to a joint structure to receive cooling airflow. Each divergent seal body is manufactured of a metallic hot sheet inner skin and a metallic cold sheet outer skin. The skins form a multiple of longitudinal channels which communicate with a multiple of edge channels formed within the first longitudinal side and the second longitudinal side of each divergent seal. The multiple of edge channels are located transverse to the longitudinal axis and are raked aft to facilitate cooling of the gas path surface of each divergent seal and adjacent divergent flaps. |
| US08205453B2 |
Method for assembling end to end two parts having different thermal expansion coefficients and assembly thus obtained
In order to assemble together two parts (154, 162) of materials having different coefficients of expansion via mutually engaged edge portions (154a, 162a), tongues (170) are formed in the thinned edge of one of the parts, the tongues being separated by slots (172) obtained by cutting or machining the material of the part, and the parts are assembled together by fastening (174) via the tongues. The edge portions are mutually engaged in such a manner as to be in substantially leaktight contact at the high temperatures encountered in operation. The method is applicable in particular to assembling together parts made respectively of metal and of ceramic composite material, in particular in an aviation gas turbine, for example, upstream and downstream secondary nozzles. |
| US08205448B2 |
Turbocharger with improved charge pressure regulating flap configuration
The invention relates to a turbocharger (1) comprising a compressor (2), a turbine connected to the compressor (2) by means of a shaft (3) and provided with an exhaust inlet (5) and an exhaust outlet (7), and a bypass line (6) which branches off from the exhaust inlet (5), bypassing the turbine, and leads to the exhaust outlet in which a boost-pressure regulating flap is arranged, said regulating flap comprising a flap plate (13) which is connected to a flap shaft (14) by means of a connecting device (12). |
| US08205447B2 |
Intercooler deicing
The invention relates to a process for operating an internal combustion engine, with at least one supercharger, at least one intercooler connected downstream from the supercharger, at least one cooling circuit which is connected to the intercooler, and at least one pressure setting device which controls the supercharger. It is provided that differential pressure determination of the charging air is used for ascertaining the icing state of the intercooler. Furthermore the invention relates to an internal combustion engine for implementing the process. |
| US08205445B2 |
Tunable impedance load-bearing structures
A tunable impedance load bearing structure includes a support comprising an active material configured for supporting a load, wherein the active material undergoes a change in a property upon exposure to an activating condition, wherein the change in the property is effective to change an impedance characteristic of the support. |
| US08205442B2 |
Low restriction hydrocarbon trap assembly
A hydrocarbon adsorption assembly for an air induction system is disclosed. The hydrocarbon adsorption assembly includes a fluid conduit having an outer surface and a spaced apart inner surface to form a fluid path therein, the conduit including a recessed area formed in the inner surface thereof. A hydrocarbon trap is disposed in the recessed area of the fluid conduit to adsorb hydrocarbons passing through the conduit. The recessed area and the hydrocarbon trap cooperate to cause a portion of an air flowing through the flow path of the conduit to flow through the hydrocarbon trap to facilitate a purging thereof. |
| US08205439B2 |
Electrically heated particulate filter with zoned exhaust flow control
A system includes a particulate matter (PM) filter that includes X zones. An electrical heater includes Y heater segments that are associated with respective ones of the X zones. The electrical heater is arranged upstream from and proximate with the PM filter. A valve assembly includes Z sections that are associated with respective ones of the X zones. A control module adjusts flow through each of the Z sections during regeneration of the PM filter via control of the valve assembly. X, Y and Z are integers. |
| US08205434B2 |
Joint for a shape memory material
A joint including a first component and a second component. The second component including a shape memory material component. The first component has a half dovetail shaped slot and the shape memory material second component has a half dovetail shaped attachment feature disposed in the half dovetail shaped slot in the first component. |
| US08205433B2 |
Pulse detonation/deflagration apparatus and related methods for enhancing DDT wave production
Pulse detonation/deflagration apparatus for providing enhanced pressure wave operating frequency and/or magnitude, and methods of increasing the frequency or the magnitude of deflagration to detonation waves, are provided. A pulse detonation/deflagration apparatus can include a main/outer pulse detonation/deflagration actuator/engine (PDA/E) with multiple smaller internal combustion chambers or tubes positioned inside the cavity of the main/outer PDA/E with each performing the function of individual PDA/Es. The output pressure waves created by the internal PDA/Es can be utilized for propulsion or for controlling large scale flows, where needed. |
| US08205431B2 |
Bearing-like structure to control deflections of a rotating component
A bearing like surface on a stationary component reduces deflection of an adjacent rotating component. The stationary component is generally parallel to and offset from a rotational component. The rotational component rotates about a central axis. Protrusions located on the stationary component are in contact with the rotational component to prevent deflection of the rotational component while reducing the friction between the rotational and stationary component. The protrusions have a generally flat surface that may be used to affix the protrusions to the stationary component. An arced surface of the protrusions is in contact with the rotating component. The number, size and the shape of the protrusions are determined by the requirements of the application. |
| US08205429B2 |
Methods for operating gas turbine engines
A method facilitates assembling a gas turbine engine assembly. The method comprises providing at least one propelling gas turbine engine that includes a core engine including at least one turbine, coupling an auxiliary engine to the propelling gas turbine engine such that during operation of the propelling gas turbine engine, such that at least a portion of the airflow entering the propelling gas turbine engine is extracted from the propelling gas and channeled to the auxiliary engine for generating power, and coupling a modulating valve in flow communication to the propelling gas turbine engine to control the flow of airflow from the propelling gas turbine engine to the auxiliary engine, wherein the modulating valve is selectively operable to control an extraction point of airflow from the propelling gas turbine engine. |
| US08205427B2 |
Interdependent lubrication systems in a turbine engine
A heat exchange system for use in operating equipment having a plurality of subsystems in each of which one of a plurality of working fluids is utilized to provide selected operations with there being an air and working fluid heat exchanger providing controlled cooling to cool at least one of the plurality of working fluids in its corresponding subsystem. In addition, a coupling heat exchanger is also provided connected to two of the subsystems to pass there working fluids therethrough, including the subsystem with the air and working fluid heat exchanger, to allow one of the connected subsystems to aid in cooling the other. |
| US08205425B2 |
Cascade guide
A method for producing a multidirectional contexture made of fibers, in particular carbon fibers, in which a unidirectional contexture web is wound at an angle about a plate to form a coil, wherein the plate is provided with a device for compensating friction, and the coil is pulled off from the plate. In order to provide improved pulling of the fibers off a plate a cascade guide is being used, which is disposed at the end of the plate and which comprises a laterally extended wedge. |
| US08205423B2 |
Disc mowing device with blade holder breakable pin connection
Mowing device for plants, comprising at least one rotor with a rotor axis, in particular a vertical rotor axis or first rotation axis, and at least one blade which is driven in rotation by the rotor, in which the blade is attached to a blade holder, which is attached to the rotor so as to be rotatable about a second rotation axis which is situated at a radial distance from the rotor axis. |
| US08205422B2 |
Draper assembly with rollers and a draper belt support panel for a flexible draper header
A harvesting machine includes a harvesting header with a header frame, a flexible cutterbar assembly attached to the header frame along the length thereof and configured to cut a crop, and a flexible draper assembly positioned behind the cutterbar assembly to permit the draper assembly to flex with the cutterbar assembly and operable to receive severed crop material from the cutterbar assembly. The draper assembly includes fore-and-aft extending rollers and an endless flexible belt entrained around the rollers. The draper assembly further includes at least one support panel to support the belt. |
| US08205413B2 |
Decapping system
Decapping system for opening or closing reagent containers or cartridge systems closed by a lid which is removed and secured by a rotational movement and method thereof are disclosed. The decapping system has a centering unit at its lower end that provides a snap-in element which engages the lid, and a plurality of simultaneously driven and vertically movable screwing heads which compensates for variable heights and/or sizes of cartridge systems to be processed. |
| US08205407B2 |
Modular decking system
An apparatus forming a assembly includes at least two panels. Each panel has a top surface and a plurality of perimetric edges. Each edge of one panel is adapted for joining any edge of another panel or to rounded edge pieces that connect is a complementary manner to the panels similar to other panels. The apparatus includes at least one connector adapted to secure two panels in adjoined relation. The connector has a first end adapted for engagement with the two adjoined panels, and a second end adapted to be swung into a locked position. |
| US08205406B2 |
Wall clip and shim adapted for insulating concrete walls and similar materials
Systems, components, and methods for attaching insulating foam panels to a wall provide additional insulation by virtue of the low thermal conductivity of the foam material of which the panels are made. Structural elements disposed within the panels provide attachment features used for fixing the panels to the wall, and also provide a structural mounting for finishing materials that may be placed on the wall. A clip attaches to the attachment features and is then affixed to the wall. One or more shims may be attached to the clip for accommodating irregularities in the wall. The shims also may be used in a variety of additional applications where accommodation for irregularities in spacing is desired. |
| US08205405B2 |
Wall structure
A wall structure is provided, which, despite having a surface that is covered with elastic coating material and that is jointless, has an uneven pattern in the surface, and which does not require any great effort in the coating process and exhibit little variation in the finished design. The wall structure has a wall material, an elastic joint material, a mesh-shaped material and an elastic coating material. The surface of the wall material bears an uneven pattern in which the height difference between deepest portions and highest portions is 2.0 to 4.0 mm and a pattern loss ratio is 15% or less, and furthermore, the wall material is fixed in a state where a side end portion of the wall material is abutted against a side end portion of another wall material. The elastic joint material covers the surface of the abutting portion of the side end portions of the wall materials, and the elastic coating material covers the entire surfaces of the wall materials and of the elastic joint material. The uneven pattern in the surface of the wall is formed by coating the uneven surface of the wall material with the elastic coating material, and the amount of the elastic coating material is 2 to 6 kg/m2. |
| US08205404B2 |
Covering panel with bevelled edges having varying cross-section, and apparatus and method of making the same
A panel for use in an assembly of panels is attached to each other to form a covering. The panel comprises an upper surface and a lower surface each extending within a different main plane, and at least an edge between these surfaces comprising a coupling to couple the panel to a coupling of another panel. The upper surface includes a lowered part at said edge and the cross-section of the lowered part, perpendicular to the edge of the panel, varies along the edge. Such a panel provides a good imitation of a panel made of natural materials. The invention also provides an appropriate method to make such a panel. |
| US08205402B1 |
Stud spacer for metal wall
A stud spacer for a metal wall having a series of spaced apart studs with each stud having a pair of flanges and an interconnected web with the web having an opening therein. Connected between each pair of consecutive studs is a stud spacer. Each stud spacer includes a pair of end flanges that are secured to the web of an adjacent stud. In addition, each stud spacer includes a projection that projects through an opening in the adjacent stud and extends into an opening or slot in an adjacent stud spacer such that the respective stud spacers are effectively linked or connected by the projections of the various stud spacers found in the metal wall. |
| US08205401B2 |
Roof vent and system
Disclosed is a cover for a tubular duct extending from a planar roof surface. The cover comprises a cap, a skirt and a closure. In use: the cap is disposed outwardly from said duct, to define a headspace outside said duct and an annular space surrounding the headspace; the skirt extends from the rim of the cap in surrounding, spaced relation to said duct; and the closure extends from the terminus of the skirt to said duct and is disposed in spaced relation to said surface. The skirt and closure have vanes formed therein. The vanes are oriented such that: precipitation driven by wind through the skirt into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the skirt, towards the roof; and precipitation driven by wind through the closure into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the closure, away from the duct. |
| US08205398B2 |
Fascia vent
A fascia vent for a roof structure includes a fascia board for attachment along the lower ends of roof rafters that support a roof deck above an attic space. The fascia vent has an exposed outside face and an inside face at least partly exposed to the attic space. In one embodiment, a plurality of slots are formed along the inside face of the fascia board with a lower end of the slots communicating with ambience along the bottom edge of the fascia board and an upper end of the slots communicating with the attic space. In another embodiment, a plurality of spaced vent pockets are formed in the inside face and a slot is formed along the bottom edge of the fascia vent communicating with the vent pockets. In still another embodiment for installing along the longer rafter tails of wider rafters, the fascia board is wider and plunge cuts are made along the bottom edge of the fascia board to form a flow path to the vent pockets and thus to an attic space. In use, hot air vented from the attic is replaced by fresh air that flows through the fascia vent and into the attic space. |
| US08205397B2 |
Roof edge cable raceway and method of forming same
A raceway extends along an edge of roof of a structure and is adapted to house a cable, such as an industry standard ice and snow melt heating cable designed, listed and approved for the purpose. An open side of the raceway exposes the cable and allows for the insertion, replacement and inspection of the cable per industry practice. A side of the raceway may have a radiused edge providing added resiliency to springably retain and/or removably secure the cable in raceway. In the case of a heating cable, heat is transferred to the surrounding structure, and may be concentrated at the drip edge to maximize ice melt efficiency. Methods of installation of the raceway are applicable to new construction and retro-fitting existing structures, including drainage systems, bridge structures and other outdoor enclosures, and may be used with many types of roofing materials including asphalt, wood and metal. |
| US08205396B2 |
Fascia assembly for roof edge construction
A combination fascia cover system is provided including a base plate having a shorter portion for lying atop the roof edge and a longer portion at right angles to the first portion for overlying the upper sidewall and being attached thereto by threaded fasteners through a series of holes perforating the longer portion. The shorter portion of the base plate having, at its distal end, an upwardly extending flange for creating an upward spacing away from the roofing system and at end of the flange a partially reinforced pocket is formed by overlying folds to form the pocket. The cover plate is mounted over the base plate with a spring clip having uniquely spaced bends configured to match the dimensions of the base and cover plates, which spring clip engages the pocket, the base plate and the cover plate to retain the base and cover plates in tensioned spaced relationship while engaged together with one another. |
| US08205393B1 |
Coupler for landfill tarp
A weight system for a landfill tarpaulin. A pair of parallel chains are retained within a pair of sleeves in the tarp. A plurality of parallel wire lines traverse the tarpaulin. A plurality of elongated coupler bodies are provided with each coupler body having a first end terminating in a eyelet and a second, opposed end terminating in a hollow recess. A chain fastener passes through one eyelet, passes through one of the chains, and passes through the tarp. At least one wire line fastener passes through an opening in the coupler body to engage one of the wire lines received in the second, opposed end hollow recess. |
| US08205391B2 |
Automobile weather strip
An automobile weather strip has a trim part having a substantially U-shaped section and a sealing part. The automobile weather strip is characterized in that: the trim part has an insert member and a covering material for covering the insert member; the covering member is provided with holding lips for holding a flange part on an inner surface of the trim part; a sponge material of a rubber formed by using a blend material of an EPDM rubber and an olefin-based thermoplastic synthetic resin and a sponge material of a rubber having physical properties of a specific gravity of 0.6 to 0.8 and a 25%-stretching stress of 500 KPa or more are used as the covering material. |
| US08205383B2 |
Sleeve with angular arcuate lower end
A plant packaging and covering system comprising a floral sleeve having a lower portion and optionally an upper detachable portion which may be sized to surround a plant disposed in a pot. The floral sleeve has a lower end having an angular arcuate portion for improving the conformation of the sleeve to the shape of a pot. |
| US08205381B2 |
Container for decorative grass
A container liner comprising a backing, a porous covering, a seed carrier interposed between the backing and the covering, and a plurality of seeds embedded in the seed carrier such that upon germination the seeds will sprout through the porous covering to form a soft, natural, protective cushion for objects, such as candies or Easter eggs. The container liner is sufficiently flexible so that the container liner can be easily manipulated to substantially conform to the interior contour of the container. |
| US08205377B1 |
Better rat trap system
A trash can has an open top, a recipient surface supporting a closed bottom, and a side wall. A ramp has a first end positioned on the recipient surface and a second end positioned on the top of the trash can. A pivotable member having upper and lower surfaces is pivotally supported at the second end of the ramp. The interior end of the pivotable member is located above the ramp and the exterior end is located above the trash can. The pivotable member is positionable in an attracting orientation with the interior end in contact with the ramp and the exterior end in a raised horizontal orientation. The pivotable member is positionable in a capturing orientation with the interior end raised above the ramp and the exterior end in a lowered angled orientation. |
| US08205372B2 |
Safety device for firearm and remote control system of one or more fire-arms provided with said device
A safety device (1) for fire-arms (11), includes actuator elements (10; 10′; 19, 20, 21, 21′, 22), suitable to engage with mechanical parts of the fire-arm (11) so as to prevent and/or permit its operation; and a control unit (2), operatively connected with the actuator elements (10; 10′; 19, 20, 21, 21′, 22), the control unit (2) including transceiving elements (3), cooperating with certification outer members brought by an authorized user (U) for exchanging signals with the same for codified remote control of the actuator elements (10; 10′; 19, 20, 21, 21′, 22). A remote control system for one or more firearms provided with the safety device is also disclosed. |
| US08205371B1 |
Recoil reducing systems for a stock
A recoil reduction system having a stock with a track formed therein and extending a bottom wall; a sliding member that includes a rail extending from the right side and the left side of the rail, and wherein the sliding member is slidably received within the track by interaction of the track and the rail; a handgrip member formed as a portion of the stock, wherein the handgrip member includes a chamber that extends within the handgrip member; a first recoil reduction means mounted within the chamber, wherein the first recoil reduction means is configured to oppose sliding by the sliding member in at least one direction; and a second recoil reduction means mounted within the track, wherein the recoil reduction means is configured to oppose sliding by the sliding member in at least one direction. |
| US08205367B2 |
Associative image apparatus
The present invention relates generally to the field of mounting devices for audio and visual components, and more specifically to an apparatus for displaying associative images and maximizing their cognitive effect on a user. |
| US08205365B2 |
Three dimensional foam greeting cards
Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that extends between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof. The greeting cards may include various switch mechanisms that may be located and accessed through various locations on the foam greeting card body. |
| US08205363B2 |
Steam ironing machine
A steam ironing machine, at least comprises a base, a telescopic shaft and an ironing device, wherein the base is provided with a steam generator and an outer case surrounding it. The telescopic shaft with a support seat mounted on its top end is disposed on the base and the support seat can move a distance relative to the base. The ironing device can detachedly be mounted on the support seat, wherein the steam generator in the base is attached to the ironing device. |
| US08205356B2 |
Devices with internal flexibility sipes, including siped chambers for footwear
The present invention attempts to replicate in footwear, orthotics, and other products the naturally effective anatomical structures like a bare foot that provide superior flexibility, cushioning, and stable support compared to existing products. More specifically, the invention relates to a device for such products including a unitary internal sipe component, said internal sipe providing increased flexibility for said device. Even more specifically, the invention relates to footwear, orthotic or other products with an outer chamber and at least one inner chamber inside the outer chamber; the outer chamber and the inner chamber being separated at least in part by an internal sips; and the internal sipe providing increased flexibility, cushioning, and stability. |
| US08205355B2 |
Sole structure for a sports shoe
A sole structure for a sports shoe includes a wavy corrugated plate that is disposed at a heel region of the sole structure and that has corrugations around the heel circumferential portion. The amplitude or height of each corrugation becomes gradually greater toward the heel circumferential edge. The sole structure further includes pillar members formed of rubber and disposed around the heel circumferential portion on the bottom surface of the wavy corrugated plate. The top surfaces of the pillar members include inclined surfaces that slope downwardly as they progress outwardly from the heel central portion toward the heel circumferential edge. |
| US08205354B2 |
Sole for shoes of the waterproof and vapor-permeable type, and shoe provided with said sole
A sole for shoes, of waterproof and vapor-permeable type, including a lower element of plastic material, with formed thereon a tread with multiple through holes, a water impermeable and permeable to water vapor membrane arranged above the lower element and superimposed on the through holes, the membrane being joined perimetrically and hermetically to at least one component of the sole to avoid rise of liquids through the sole, and a vapor-permeable or perforated mechanism protecting the membrane, arranged below the membrane superimposed on the area of the holes. The sole includes individual vapor-permeable or perforated protective elements, each arranged so as to block a corresponding through hole. The lower element forms, for each through hole, an undercut region for preventing downward extraction for each protective element. |
| US08205352B2 |
Vapor dryer having hydrophilic end effector
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus and methods for rinsing and drying substrates. One embodiment provides an end effector comprising a body having a contact tip for contacting an edge area of a substrate, wherein the end effector is configured to support the substrate while the substrate is in a rinsing bath and while the substrate is being dried from the rinsing bath, and the contact tip comprises a hydrophilic material. |
| US08205347B2 |
Loader tool level indicator
A tool level indicator is provided. The tool level indicator has a rod sliding in a coiled wire cylinder, with one end having an enlarged helical hook that can be slid onto an actuator barrel when at a substantial right angle to the actuator, then tightens on the actuator barrel as the coil is rotated and attached to the upper actuator pin. The upper coils are spaced such that a particular set of closely wound coils indicates a first tool level at ground and a second particular set of closely wound coils indicates a second tool level at ground when the tip of the rod aligns with the second particular set of closely wound coils. |
| US08205345B2 |
Method of correcting the shape of a sensed curve approximating a longitudinal trace of a bezel of an eyeglass frame, and a method of acquiring the shape of an outline of such a bezel
The correction method includes searching for one or more anomalous zones (S1, S2), if any, of the sensed curve (19), and if one or more anomalous zones are found, correcting the shape of each anomalous zone of the sensed curve. |
| US08205339B2 |
Method for manufacturing nozzle substrate, and method for manufacturing droplet discharge head
A method for manufacturing a nozzle substrate includes forming a first hollow recess in a first surface of a silicon substrate, forming a liquid-resistant protective film on the first surface of the silicon substrate including an inner wall of the first hollow recess, forming a second hollow recess in a first surface of a glass substrate, bonding the first surfaces of the silicon substrate and the glass substrate by anodic bonding, reducing a thickness of the glass substrate from a second surface until an aperture is formed in a bottom surface of the second hollow recess to form a second nozzle hole disposed on a droplet feed side, and reducing a thickness of the silicon substrate from a second surface until an aperture is formed in a bottom surface of the first hollow recess to form a first nozzle hole disposed on a droplet discharge side. |
| US08205338B2 |
Method of making a multi-lobed nozzle
A method of forming a multi-lobed nozzle in a nozzle plate. A mask may be used to pattern photoresist on the nozzle plate or for patterning a polymer dry film, for example, which is then used for etching the plate to form multi-lobed nozzles. The formed nozzle plate is disposed over a substrate having a chamber for fluid formed therein and the chamber may include walls for supporting the nozzle plate. The fluid chamber includes a heater over the substrate for ejecting fluid through the nozzle via rapid heating of the fluid. Continuous supply of fluid is provided by forming a fluid supply channel in communication with the fluid chamber. |
| US08205334B2 |
Method for repairing a gas turbine engine component
A method for repairing a component having first and second major surfaces, a thickness between the major surfaces, and an edge, is characterized by utilizing a template to determine if the component is suitable for repair, and forming a slot cut entirely through the thickness of the component. The slot extends inward from the edge of the component, has an open end at the edge of the component, a closed end within the component, a width, a radius at the closed end, and chamfered edges at the open end. Forming the slot includes forming an initial cut with a first cutting surface from the edge of the component at least to the defect, finishing the initial cut to the width and the radius with a second cutting surface, resulting in a finished cut, and chamfering the edge of the finished cut with a third cutting surface. |
| US08205331B2 |
Full time lean running aircraft piston engine
A full time lean air fuel mixture running spark ignited air cooled aircraft piston engine. In one embodiment, a drop-in substitution is provided for an equivalent make, model, and engine size, wherein the new, rebuilt, or reconfigured engine provides as much or more horsepower when compared to the original engine, but runs at a lean air fuel ratio condition during normal operating modes, including takeoff, climb, and cruise, thus saving significantly on fuel. In yet another embodiment, a drop-in substitution having a somewhat larger cylinder displacement volume may be provided to attain equivalent or enhanced maximum horsepower while operating at lean air fuel ratios. Enhanced engine life may be anticipated, since cylinder head temperatures (CHTs) may be reduced, compared to engines using rich air fuel ratios for climb and cruise conditions. Aircraft using such engines are also disclosed. |
| US08205327B2 |
Method for manufacturing circuit board on which electronic component is mounted
A method for manufacturing a circuit board on which an electronic component is mounted, includes at least the steps of (a) supplying a liquid photo-polymerizable adhesive containing conductive particles dispersed therein to a surface of a printed board, to form an adhesive layer on the board surface; (b) irradiating the photo-polymerizable adhesive with ultraviolet light to turn into a gel, to provide adhesiveness to the adhesive layer; and (c) pressing the electronic component against the component mounting portion of the printed board from an upper surface side of the adhesive layer, to form an electrical connection between the electronic component and the component mounting portion, and in the method, the photo-polymerizable adhesive is a delayed reactive adhesive. |
| US08205323B2 |
Method of manufacturing head gimbal assembly
In a manufacturing method for a head gimbal assembly, before mounting a slider on a suspension, coating films each made of solder are formed on respective terminals of a plurality of leads to be connected to a plurality of electrode pads of the slider. After mounting the slider on the suspension, the coating films are heated with laser light to thereby melt the solder, with the respective terminals of the plurality of leads in contact with the corresponding electrode pads via the respective coating films, whereby the terminals are electrically and physically connected to the electrode pads. |
| US08205321B2 |
Method of assembling a magneto generator
A method for assembling a magneto generator, the method including forming a plurality of permanent magnets, wherein at least one of the plurality of the permanent magnets is formed by dividing, in a radial direction, a magnet main body into a plurality of magnet pieces, mounting the formed plurality of the permanent magnets on an inner circumferential wall surface of a bowl-shaped flywheel, disposing a stator core having a plurality of teeth that project radially outward, inside said mounted plurality of the permanent magnets, and winding conductive wire onto each of the plurality of the teeth, thereby producing a generating coil. |
| US08205318B2 |
Method for surface treatment of metal plate and vehicle treated thereby
When surface grinding finish for decoration or other purposes is performed by applying a film to the front surface of a metal plate that is welded linearly with penetration from the rear surface side thereof, a plurality of the films are applied so as not to cover weld lines. In this manner, the metal plate can be subjected to the surface grinding finish such that an appearance similar to weld marks is not created. |
| US08205313B2 |
Structure for attaching vibration insulating member
There is provided a structure of a vibration insulating member for firmly fixing the member between a fuel tank mounted on a vehicle body by means of a tank band and the vehicle body. The vibration insulating member includes an engaging protrusion that is fixed to a fixing hole that is made through the vehicle body in a direction orthogonal to a direction in which the tank band is fastened. |
| US08205311B2 |
Process and apparatus for corner tucking a covering sheet of an upholstered article
An apparatus and process for causing excess covering material at a workpiece corner to be gathered, folded and secured to a back side of the panel. A corner tucking apparatus includes a gathering plate positioned adjacent a positioning structure, and moves inwardly across the back side of the workpiece, from the corner, to gather and fold the corner flap. The gathering plate has a generally V-shaped notch which causes excess material to be gathered together as the plate moves inwardly. The gathered material upon reaching the apex of the notch is folded downwardly into contact with the back side of the workpiece. A securing structure which is carried inwardly with the gathering plate is then activated to fixedly secure the folded flap to the pad or workpiece. |
| US08205309B2 |
Clamps for supporting transport system structures
Apparatus and methods are provided for supporting one or more structural members for installation onto a vehicle structure. A clamp may include two or more curved portions joined by a living hinge. The living hinge may enable the curved portions to pivot relative to one another, providing the clamp with an open position and a closed position. The curved portions may include respective track portions, with the first and second track portions being approximately collinear when the clamp is in the closed position. An elongated rigid latch defines an elongated channel for receiving these respective track portions to provide a rigid structural link between the first and second curved portions. A mounting point is attached to the first or the second curved portion, with the mounting point being adapted to receive the structural members. |
| US08205307B2 |
Fastening member comprising shaped tab
A fastening member used for, e.g., a disposable absorbent article is disclosed. The fastening member extends in a longitudinal direction and in a lateral direction and has a lateral centerline. The fastening member comprises a base panel and a shaped tab extending laterally from the base panel. The shaped tab has a longitudinal centerline, a lateral centerline, a distal portion and a proximal portion. The shaped tab has a contour edge comprising a shaped upper edge and a shaped lower edge. The shaped upper edge and the shaped lower edge are symmetric with respect to the longitudinal centerline of the shaped tab when relatively shifted in the longitudinal direction and are asymmetric with respect to the lateral centerline of the fastening member. |
| US08205304B2 |
Adjustable friction hinge
An adjustable friction hinge with a first hinge portion with two spaced apart first hinge knuckles and second hinge portion having a second hinge knuckle with rotatably fit together. A barrel bushing is non-rotatably positioned in the second hinge knuckle. A friction bushing is slidably and non-rotatably located in openings in the two first hinge knuckles. A threaded compression nut, and a non-threaded compression nut are located in the two spaced apart first hinge knuckles. A screw passes through the non-threaded compression nut, the spaced apart first hinge knuckles, the second hinge knuckle, the two friction bushings, and into the threaded compression nut. When the screw is tightened, the threaded and non-threaded compression nuts force the two frictional bushing into frictional contact with the barrel bushing to increase a force required to move the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion relative to each other. |
| US08205303B2 |
Hinge
A hinge includes a fixing member, a shaft fixed to the fixing member, a rotating member, an interfering member, and a fastener. The shaft includes a shaft post, and the fastener is fixed to a distal end of the shaft post. The interfering member defines a fixing hole departing from a center of the interfering member, and includes two guiding surfaces. The rotating member defines an oblong adjusting hole, through which the shaft post rotatably passes. A first resisting stub and a second resisting stub extend from the rotating member, to resist against the corresponding guiding surfaces. The shaft post is fixedly received in the fixing hole. When the rotating member is rotated relative to the shaft post, the first and second resisting stubs always resist against and move along the corresponding guiding surfaces, to urge the shaft post to relatively move in the adjusting hole. |
| US08205301B2 |
Hinge assembly and eletronic device using the same
A hinge assembly includes a first bracket, a second bracket, a damping member, and a torsion resilient member. The first bracket defines a damping protrusion. The second bracket is rotatable relative to the first bracket. The damping member defines a depression. The damping protrusion is configured to engage with the depression. The torsion resilient member urges the first bracket to rotate relative to the second bracket and the damping member. The engagement of damping protrusion and the depression prevents the first bracket from rotating when the first bracket rotates through a predetermined angle. When the first bracket rotates through the predetermined angle relative to the second bracket and the damping member, the first bracket together with the damping member are rotatable relative to the second bracket to any desired angle. |
| US08205299B2 |
Hinge and spring assembly
A hinge and spring assembly is provided for supporting at least one synthetic enclosure access door's on an enclosure. The enclosure has at least a first wall and at least one second wail, the second wall being formed in part by the access door. The access door has a mounting rib integrated therein. The hinge and spring assembly comprises a primary support element having at least one first hinge member and a spring support member. A door mounting member is secured to the mounting rib of the synthetic enclosure access door and comprises a spring mounting member and a second hinge member. The second hinge member of the door mounting member is movably attached to the first hinge member of the primary support element to form an articulating hinge joint. At least one spring member has first and second ends, the first end being secured to the spring support member of the primary support element, and the second end bend secured to the spring mounting member of the door mounting member. |
| US08205297B2 |
Swivel castor braking system
A swivel castor assembly, includes a body having at least one rotatable wheel engageable with a floor or ground surface below the body, a brake actuable to brake or prevent rotation of the wheel, and an element for mounting the body such that it is able to swivel about a generally upright axis. A head is adapted to be mounted to prevent or restrict its rotation about the upright axis. A brake activator is mounted to the head for movement between a braking position in which it activates the brake, a neutral position in which the brake is inactive and the body is not prevented from swivelling about the upright axis, and a direction-lock position in which the body may be swivelled to one of plural selectable orientations with respect to the head at each of which the body is locked against swivelling but the brake is inactive. |
| US08205296B1 |
Pet grooming vacuum accessory tool
A vacuum accessory tool has a nozzle body with a suction opening and a hose section for connecting the accessory tool with a hose of an external vacuum source. The nozzle body includes a serrated blade that can be used for grooming a domestic animal. The nozzle body further comprises a transparent or semi-transparent tool hood for viewing the area being groomed. The nozzle body is pivotally mounted to the hose section by a rotatable cuff for rotation of the nozzle body relative to the hose section. Adaptors connect the vacuum accessory tool to multiple different size hoses of a variety of vacuum cleaners. |
| US08205295B2 |
Water basin illumination
A vacuum cleaner assembly is disclosed. The vacuum cleaner assembly includes a housing assembly having a motor connected to a vacuum source, a particulate collection pan interconnected to the housing and a base and an illumination source for illuminating the particulate collection pan. |
| US08205291B2 |
Wiper system for front windscreens of motor vehicles
The invention relates to a wiper system for the front windscreens of motor vehicles. Said system comprises at least one wiper blade, which can be guided over the front windscreen (4) on a pivotable wiper arm (11), at least one bearing part (1) that can be pivoted about an axis (5), at least one fixing part (10) that can be connected to the bearing part (1) in a non-torsional manner and at least one single-axis articulation that connects the wiper arm (11) to the fixing part (10). The position of the connection between the bearing part (1) and fixing part (10) lies in the vicinity of the axis (5) about which the bearing part (1) is pivoted. |
| US08205289B1 |
Hand tool
A hand tool (10) for shaping joint compound (64) applied to a wall including a substantially rigid blade (12) having a handle (14), and wherein the blade (12) has a preselected non-adjustable curvature (12). |
| US08205288B2 |
Cleaning device
A cleaning device includes at least one cleaning cloth of one type of material providing a wiping function and a care label attached to an edge of the cleaning cloth. The label comprises a patch of a material of a type that has a different internal configuration than the material of the cleaning cloth and that provides a scrubbing function. |
| US08205287B2 |
Insulation element for an electrical appliance such as a dishwasher
An insulation element is provided for installation in a gap of thickness G provided between two objects. The insulation element includes a body made from a thermoplastic polymer material. The body has a first face, a second face and a thickness defined between the first and second faces. The body is characterized by a semi permanently pre-installation thickness T1 where T1 is less than G. The body swells upon heating to a thickness T2 where T2 is greater than or equal to G so that the insulation element bridges the gap, engages the two objects and provides a spring rate of between 4.0 and 275.0 grams per square inch. |
| US08205282B2 |
Pillow with air bladder insert
The pillow includes a pillow tick which includes first and second substantially identical fabric members. A chamber extends along the length of the pillow at one longitudinal edge thereof. An air bladder member with crushable foam or polyester pellets is positioned within the chamber. A valve extends from the air bladder member to provide adjustable neck support. Pressure is exerted on the foam with the valve open. When the desired firmness is achieved, the valve is closed. Two baffle members are positioned in the tick volume between the other longitudinal edge of the tick and the chamber. The tick volume contains natural or synthetic fill. The baffles angle toward each other to provide good support and comfort and to reduce movement of the fill. |
| US08205281B2 |
Removable bed, mattress, and seat wraps with integrated storage compartments
The present invention provides removable bed, mattress, and seat wraps with integrated storage compartments. Advantageously, these removable bed, mattress, and seat wraps allow a user to place pockets and other storage compartments of and in a wide variety of configurations where they are desired with respect to a bed, mattress, seat, or the like, and remove these pockets and other storage compartments quickly and easily when desired. For example, the removable bed, mattress, and seat wraps of the present invention may be used in conjunction with the headboard of a bed, a mattress, a box spring, a home seat, a vehicle seat, a boat seat, or virtually any other suitable structure, stationary or mobile. |
| US08205271B2 |
Hosiery with removable foot cushion
Footwear hosiery is provided, which includes a first layer defining a front portion, an arch portion and a rear portion. A second layer is connected with at least one of the arch portion and the front portion in a configuration to define a receptacle having an opening. A pad is configured for removable disposal within the receptacle. The first layer may be a fabric material. The second layer may be fabricated from a flexible material. |
| US08209768B2 |
Method of manufacturing an SPM probe with a scanning tip and with an alignment aid located opposite the scanning tip
A method of manufacturing an SPM probe having a support element, a cantilever, and a scanning tip on an underside of the cantilever, and having a mark located on the top side of the cantilever opposite the scanning tip. The mark on the top side of the cantilever is located exactly opposite the scanning tip on the underside of the cantilever. This makes it possible to identify the exact position of the scanning tip in the scanning probe microscope from the upward-pointing top side of the cantilever, which significantly simplifies the alignment of the SPM probe. The support element with the cantilever may be prefabricated conventionally and the scanning tip and the mark are then produced on the cantilever in a self-aligning way by means of a particle-beam-induced material deposition based on a gas-induced process. |
| US08209766B2 |
Scanning probe microscope capable of measuring samples having overhang structure
A scanning probe microscope tilts the scanning direction of a z-scanner by a precise amount and with high repeatability using a movable assembly that rotates the scanning direction of the z-scanner with respect to the sample plane. The movable assembly is moved along a curved guide by a rack-and-pinion drive system and has grooves that engage with corresponding ceramic balls formed on a stationary frame to precisely position the movable assembly at predefined locations along the curved guide. The grooves are urged against the ceramic balls via a spring force and, prior to movement of the movable assembly, a pneumatic force is applied to overcome the spring force and disengage the grooves from the ceramic balls. |
| US08209764B2 |
Sensitive data aliasing
Database management and security is implemented in a variety of embodiments. In one such embodiment, data sets containing sensitive data elements are analyzed using aliases representing sensitive data elements. In another embodiment, the sensitive data elements are stored in an encrypted form for use from a secure access, while the alias is available for standard access. |
| US08209762B2 |
Approach for printing locked print data using user and print data authentication
An approach is provided for printing locked print data using user and print data authentication. The approach is applicable to a wide variety of contexts and implementations and includes the use of bi-directional security measures to ensure a secure transmission of a document to a printer and secure retrieval of the document from the printer by one or more intended recipients. In particular, the bi-directional security measures ensure that: 1) the document is received only by the intended recipient designated by the creator, 2) both the document's creator and the intended recipient are successfully authenticated, 3) the document received by the intended recipient is the document that was created by the creator, and 4) the document received by the intended recipient is identical to the document created by the creator. |
| US08209761B2 |
Wireless network system, information providing apparatus and wireless terminal
A wireless network system, information providing apparatus and wireless terminal that can prevent the leak of information such as an address of the wireless terminal. A wireless network system includes an information providing apparatus that provides service information over a wireless network, and multiple wireless terminals each of which receives the service information provided from the information providing apparatus. In this case, the information providing apparatus includes destination possibility data in the service information, and each of the wireless terminals determines the destination possibility that the destination of the provided service information is the wireless terminal based on the destination possibility data included in the provided service information accepts the provided service information only if it is determined that there is the destination possibility. |
| US08209760B1 |
Quantifying a property of a focus computing resource based on proximity to other computing resources
The estimation of a risk factor applied to a negative potential of a focus computing resource based on proximity of the focus computing resource from other computing resources, and not just based on neighboring distance-1 computing resources. Upon determining that the risk factor applied to a negative potential of a focus computing resource is to be estimated, the negative potentials for one or more distance-1 computing resources are accessed. These negative potentials may have, in turn, been estimated based on distance and risk factor propagation from yet other higher distance computing resources. The negative potentials for the distance-1 computing resources are then used to estimate the risk factor applied to the negative potential of the focus computing resource. |
| US08209758B1 |
System and method for classifying users of antivirus software based on their level of expertise in the field of computer security
Disclosed are systems, methods and computer program products for classifying users of antivirus software based on user's level of expertise in the field of computer security. In one example, the system receives from antivirus software deployed on a user's computer information about security of the computer and history of user's usage of the software. The system categorizes the received information into categories based on (i) a number of computer threats detected by the user, (ii) a frequency of malware infections of the user's computer, and (iii) a level of user's proficiency with the antivirus software. The system then selects condition-action rules for each category of information and applies the selected rules to the categorized information to determine user's level of expertise in computer security. Finally, the system classifies the user as one of an expert or typical user based on the user's level of expertise. |
| US08209756B1 |
Compound attack detection in a computer network
An intrusion detection and prevention (IDP) device includes an attack detection module and a forwarding component. The attack detection module applies a compound attack definition to a packet flow of a computer network to determine whether the packet flow includes at least one pattern and at least one protocol anomaly. The forwarding component selectively discards the packet flow based on the determination. The IDP device may further include a reassembly module to form application-layer communications from the packet flows, and a plurality of protocol-specific decoders to process the application-layer communications to extract application-layer elements and detect protocol anomalies. |
| US08209747B2 |
Methods and systems for correlating rules with corresponding event log entries
Methods and systems for associating an event log entry with the rule that triggered its creation are described. In one embodiment, an apparatus is described. The apparatus has an event handling device for applying a plurality of rules; an event log with a plurality of log entries, and a hash value appender for appending a hash value log entries. When the event handling device performs an application of one of the rules, an entry is created in said event log, and the hash value generator appends a unique hash value to the entry. The unique hash value corresponds to the rule that was applied. |
| US08209742B2 |
Computer-implemented method for obtaining a minimum biclique cover in a bipartite dataset
A method includes providing a bipartite graph having vertices of a first type, vertices of a second type, and a plurality of edges, wherein each edge joins a vertex of the first type with a vertex of the second type. A unipartite edge dual graph is generated from the bipartite graph, and a minimum clique partition of the edge dual graph is recursively determined. A biclique is then created in the bipartite graph corresponding to each clique in the minimum clique partition of the edge dual graph. |
| US08209741B2 |
Human performance in human interactive proofs using partial credit
A system and method that facilitates and effectuates distinguishing a human from a non-human user. A human interactive proof (HIP) employs a partial credit algorithm in order to allow a user to make one or more mistakes during consecutive HIP challenges and still be identified as a human. The algorithm assigns a user partial credit based upon getting part of the challenge incorrect. The partial credit is tracked and if during one or more consecutive subsequent challenges the same user gets a portion of the challenge incorrect again, they can still be identified as human. |
| US08209739B2 |
Universal serial bus—hardware firewall (USB-HF) adaptor
A system and method in accordance with the present invention provides a protected area for software to execute on a separate hardware firewall adaptor when a storage device is operating in an unprotected environment when connected to an uncontrolled or unmonitored host system. This software provides security through a plurality of security, access management and monitoring (SAMM) applications when a USB storage device is connected to a computer in an uncontrolled, unprotected environment. |
| US08209738B2 |
Analysis of distributed policy rule-sets for compliance with global policy
A method for analysis of distributed device rule-sets for compliance with global policies includes enabling an administrator to specify a network topology with intercommunicating elements and parameters required to secure the intercommunication with access control elements of the network topology; establishing connections to the access controls elements to capture a snapshot configuration of device rule-sets of the access control elements; enabling the administrator to specify a set of global access constraints with reference to the access control elements; enabling the administrator to select between exhaustive analysis and statistical analysis; conducting the selected analysis to determine violations by the device rule-sets that fail to comply with the set of global access constraints, wherein statistical analysis quantitatively characterizes a level of compliance without conducting analysis of all potential network paths; and providing results of the selected analysis to the administrator through a graphical user interface (GUI) as the results are obtained. |
| US08209736B2 |
Systems and methods for managing television (TV) signals
Methods for managing digital television (TV) signals are disclosed. An embodiment of a method for managing digital TV signals, performed by an electronic device, comprises the following steps. Multiple first digital TV signals and multiple second digital TV signals are selectively received, thereby enabling a display device thereof or an external display to present a series of frames corresponding to the selected digital TV signals. |
| US08209732B2 |
Arrangement and method for managing testing and repair of set-top boxes
Arrangement and method for managing set-top boxes used by customers of a content service provider includes at least one automated tester each arranged to couple to set-top boxes and subject each set-top box to a series of automated tests to determine whether each set-top box is functioning properly or requires subsequent repair, and a processor unit coupled to each automated tester for receiving test results therefrom and monitoring testing of set-top boxes via the automated tester(s). Each automated tester is located at a testing facility maintained by the content service provider. A database stores the test results from the automated tester(s) and enables generation of customized reports about the set-top boxes tested by the automated tester(s). A billing system is coupled to each automated tester and to the processor unit and coordinates invoicing for testing performed by the automated tester(s) and repair of set-top boxes at a repair facility. |
| US08209731B2 |
Transmitter and receiver of video transmission system and method for controlling buffers in transmitter and receiver
Provided is a method for controlling a buffer in a transmitter and a receiver of a video transmission system in an environment where a channel transfer rate varies. The method includes: if a channel transfer rate is changed, changing a capacity of a buffer in a transmitter being used in proportion to the c rate, the buffer temporarily storing and outputting the video data to a receiver, or changing the delay time of a buffer in the receiver by gradually changing an operating clock in the receiver. |
| US08209730B2 |
Speculative video on demand
A method of transmitting a Video-on-Demand (VOD) program involves at a service provider head-end, separating VOD program data into first and second parts; transmitting the first part over a communication network to a recipient receiver for storage at a storage device as cached speculative data, where the transmitting is carried out as a data push when the communication network has available bandwidth to permit such transmitting and without regard for any order having been received for the VOD program to be sent to the receiver; receiving an order for the VOD program to be sent to the receiver; and streaming the second part to the receiver for reassembly into the VOD program at the receiver by combining the second part as it is streamed with the cached speculative data. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract. |
| US08209726B2 |
Distributing DBS content to multiple receivers over a single coaxial cable
A satellite transponder switch (STS) maintains a table that maps set-top boxes (STBs) to carrier frequencies. The STS receives a first request from a first STB for a first transponder band and a second request from a second STB for a second transponder band. The STS receives contact from the first STB on a control channel upon power-up of the first STB and in response to the contact from the first STB, assigns a first carrier frequency to the first STB. The STS frequency shifts the first transponder band to a first carrier frequency assigned to the first STB and the second transponder band to a second carrier frequency assigned to the second STB. The STS outputs a signal that comprises the frequency-shifted first and second transponder bands to the first STB and the second STB. The frequency-shifted first and second transponder bands are separated by a separation band. A first carrier frequency of the signal is unique to the first STB and a second carrier frequency of the signal is unique to the second STB. |
| US08209725B2 |
Method for providing graphical user interface for selecting broadcast program and AV apparatus therefor
A method for providing a GUI for selecting a broadcast program, and an AV apparatus are provided. According to the method for providing a GUI, a user selection regarding the broadcast programs that cannot be simultaneously selected is set according to a user operation that is input in an area containing graphics representing broadcast programs that cannot be simultaneously selected by a user. Therefore, if a user makes errors in selecting broadcast programs, for example, if a user selects two or more broadcast programs that cannot be simultaneously selected, the errors may be corrected more easily, instantly and intuitively. |
| US08209724B2 |
Method and system for providing access to information of potential interest to a user
The present invention provides a method and system for providing access to information of potential interest to a user. Closed-caption information is analyzed to find related information on the Internet. User interactions with a TV which receives programming including closed-caption information are monitored to determine user interests. The related closed-caption information is analyzed to determine key information therein. The key information is used for searching for information in available resources such as the Internet, and the search results are used to make recommendations to the user about information of potential interest to the user. |
| US08209723B2 |
Broadcast receiving apparatus, and method and program for broadcast reception
A broadcast receiving apparatus makes it possible to select a desired television program quickly by channel-surfing. The broadcast receiving apparatus outputs information of the received broadcast content as television program information of a channel for which the broadcast content is received, includes an operation detector that detects a channel that selects operation, an operation speed calculator that calculates a channel selecting operation speed from the detected channel selecting operation, a list item count determiner that determines, according to the calculated channel selecting operation speed, the number of channels for which the television program information is displayed, a channel determiner that determines channels to be listed so that the television program information is displayed for the determined number of channels, and a display that outputs the television program information of the determined channels to be listed. |
| US08209719B2 |
System for presenting status information associated with a media content processor
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computing device having a controller adapted to monitor one or more activities taking place at a media content processor, and present an iconic symbol in a graphical user interface window adjusted according to the one or more activities being monitored. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08209714B2 |
System and method of problem detection in received internet data, video data, and voice data
Methods and systems for problem detection related to received Internet data, video data, and voice data are disclosed. A method may include monitoring, at a set top box device, Internet data to detect a first problem related to the Internet data. The method may further include monitoring, at the set top box device, video data to detect a second problem related to the video data. The method may include automatically taking a first action upon detecting the first problem and automatically taking a second action upon detecting the second problem. |
| US08209708B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program products for generating events having a common event format
Methods, systems and computer program products are provided for generating events having common formats by obtaining a populated common base event including source specific situation information for an event source. It is determined if a format of the populated common base event conforms to a predefined event format and a common event format representation of the populated common base event is generated based on the predefined event format if the format of the populated common base event does not conform to the predefined event format. |
| US08209703B2 |
Apparatus and method for dataflow execution in a distributed environment using directed acyclic graph and prioritization of sub-dataflow tasks
A computer readable storage medium includes executable instructions to assess system cache resources, inter-process communication requirements and staging requirements to divide an extract, transform, load (ETL) dataflow task into a plurality of sub-tasks. The sub-tasks are then executed in parallel on distributed resources. |
| US08209692B2 |
Deallocation of computer data in a multithreaded computer
An apparatus, program product and method support the deallocation of a data structure in a multithreaded computer without requiring the use of computationally expensive semaphores or spin locks. Specifically, access to a data structure is governed by a shared pointer that, when a request is received to deallocate the data structure, is initially set to a value that indicates to any thread that later accesses the pointer that the data structure is not available. In addition, to address any thread that already holds a copy of the shared pointer, and thus is capable of accessing the data structure via the shared pointer after the initiation of the request, all such threads are monitored to determine whether any thread is still using the shared pointer by determining whether any thread is executing program code that is capable of using the shared pointer to access the data structure. Once this condition is met, it is ensured that no thread can potentially access the data structure via the shared pointer, and as such, the data structure may then be deallocated. |
| US08209689B2 |
Live lock free priority scheme for memory transactions in transactional memory
A method and apparatus for avoiding live-lock during transaction execution is herein described. Counting logic is utilized to track successfully committed transactions for each processing element. When a data conflict is detected between transactions on multiple processing elements, priority is provided to the processing element with the lower counting logic value. Furthermore, if the values are the same, then the processing element with the lower identification value is given priority, i.e. allowed to continue while the other transaction is aborted. To avoid live-lock between processing elements that both have predetermined counting logic values, such as maximum counting values, when one processing element reaches the predetermined counting value all counters are reset. In addition, a failure at maximum value (FMV) counter may be provided to count a number of aborts of a transaction when counting logic is at a maximum value. When the FMV counter is at a predetermined number of aborts the counting logic is reset to avoid live lock. |
| US08209688B2 |
Enterprise Java Bean (EJB) based enterprise printing architecture
Features of Enterprise Java Bean (EJB), Enterprise Printing Bean (EPB), JAVA, J2EE, and document authoring are combined to enable a robust enterprise printing architecture. A Java object encapsulates a print job specification and provides a framework enabling access control to print jobs as well as providing audit capabilities. Print control languages can be specified using methods provided by the Java object. Actual process implementation can be supplied via a server enabling another layer of security and control. A user wanting to securely print a job supplies appropriate credentials to the print job bean to gain access to the content and print server credentials allow printing of the print job. The EJB API is extendable to enable all of the J2EE capabilities found on standard EJBs to be applied to print Jobs. Further, a new Java API provides a more powerful page description language than that found in other printing languages. |
| US08209683B2 |
System and method for probing hypervisor tasks in an asynchronous environment
A system, method, and computer-usable medium for probing hypervisor tasks in an asynchronous environment. According to an embodiment of the invention, the partition firmware sends a request for data to the hypervisor. When the hypervisor receives the request for data, the hypervisor returns a taskID that identifies the task allocated to handle the request. Partition firmware records the taskID and a timestamp, which indicates the time in which the hypervisor received the request. A timer is set to measure the amount of time elapsed since the task ID was received by a requesting partition firmware. If the hypervisor has not provided the partition firmware with the requested data after a predetermined time period measured by the timer has elapsed, the partition firmware inquires about the status of the task associated with the taskID. If the task is still running, the partition firmware returns control of the partition to the operating system. |
| US08209681B1 |
Method of sampling hardware events in computer system
According to an embodiment, a method of sampling hardware events in a computer system comprises a first step and iterative performance of second and third steps. In the first step, an initiator virtual machine identifies a profiling event and a count to a virtual machine monitor. The virtual machine monitor iteratively performs the second and third steps. In the second step, the virtual machine monitor programs a hardware event counter with the count for the profiling event. In the third step, upon receiving an interrupt from the hardware event counter, the virtual machine monitor saves a sample that comprises a code-in-execution identifier. |
| US08209680B1 |
System and method for disk imaging on diverse computers
A system is disclosed that uses a dual loopback mounting mechanism to capture and deploy an image of a source disk with no need for the source disk to be loaded with special software or otherwise prepared. The image may be captured even where the source disk uses a proprietary file system. The invention also provides mechanisms to extract a system's hardware configuration from a static image of its disk, and to catalog, warehouse, reconfigure, customize, and deploy disk images on diverse computers. Still other mechanisms are provided to perform efficient physical-to-virtual, virtual-to-physical, and virtual-to-virtual system migration. |
| US08209679B2 |
Computer implemented method and system for processing a client request for an application program
A computer implemented method and system for processing a client request for an application program. The application program may require one or more software applications as prerequisites. In response to a client request for the application program, the system automatically determines prerequisite application programs associated with the requested application program. The prerequisite applications include a first set of direct prerequisite application programs and a second set of indirect prerequisite application programs. The method includes checking whether the second set contains a duplicate prerequisite application program that corresponds to an original prerequisite application program existing in the first set, and removing the original prerequisite application program from the first set automatically if the second set contains the duplicate prerequisite application program. Further, the method includes saving non-duplicated prerequisite programs of the first set. The pruned set of prerequisite programs and the requested program may be downloaded to the client. |
| US08209678B2 |
System, apparatus, and method for an upgrader module
A method and apparatus for obtaining and installing software updates on consumer electronics devices is described. In one embodiment, the method may include obtaining a software update for a consumer electronics (CE) device and a communications protocol for installing the software update on the CE device. The method may also include a portable device installing the software update on the CE device utilizing the communications protocol, in response to the portable device detecting a communications link between the portable device and the CE device. |
| US08209673B1 |
SLI approval policy database
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a system and method for implementing a scalable link interface (SLI) approval policy using a database. The resource manager within a GPU driver incorporates a database, which may be used to determine whether the current computer system configuration is approved for running in SLI mode. The database of specific approved configurations may be embedded within the GPU driver or stored in a separate file, which may be modified by an authorized user. The database may be encrypted to prevent unauthorized users from modifying to the database contents. When a given computer system configuration is an approved configuration within the database, the system may be enabled to operate in SLI mode. |
| US08209672B2 |
Systems and methods for transforming modeled business processes into executable processes
Systems and methods are provided for transforming modeled business processes into executable processes. The modeled processes may comprise graphically modeled business processes. The executable processes may comprise processes suitable for execution by a computerized or software-based system. In one embodiment, transformation rules are provided for mapping or converting, for example, EPC model constructs to BPEL constructs. The transformation rules can be applied to graphical constructs in a modeled business process to generate an executable business process comprising an ordered sequence of programming constructs. The ordered sequence of programming constructs can be stored in a database for subsequent execution of the executable business process. |
| US08209670B2 |
Program conversion program, program conversion apparatus and program conversion method
A program conversion program, a program conversion apparatus and a program conversion method that conversions a program having different process according to the content of an argument into a program which facilitate the analysis are provided. The program conversion apparatus includes a dedicated call destination program generating unit that detects the call destination program, an argument for differentiating the processes of the call destination program and the content of the argument from the program group and generates a program for executing only a process according to the content of the argument of the processes of the call destination program as the dedicated call destination program for each argument and each content of the argument, and a call source program rewriting unit that detects the call position for calling the call destination program from the program group and rewrites the call position to call the dedicated call destination program generated by the dedicated call destination program generating unit. |
| US08209668B2 |
Method and system for measuring the performance of a computer system on a per logical partition basis
Disclosed are a method and system for measuring the performance of individual logical partitions of a logically partitioned computer system. Preferably, the method and system both hardware and firmware to allow measurement samples to be collected only for user specified zones of interest. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of specifying a Zone or Zones of interest (a Zone being a logical partition), collecting measurement samples only from the one or more specified Zones of interest, and measuring the performance of each of these Zones using only the measurement samples collected from said each of the Zones. |
| US08209665B2 |
Identification of topics in source code
Topics in source code can be identified using Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) by receiving source code, identifying domain specific keywords from the source code, generating a keyword matrix, processing the keyword matrix and the source code using LDA, and outputting a list of topics. The list of topics is output as collections of domain specific keywords. Probabilities of domain specific keywords belonging to their respective topics can also be output. The keyword matrix comprises weighted sums of occurrences of domain specific keywords in the source code. |
| US08209659B2 |
Method and apparatus for creating a custom workflow
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for creating a custom workflow which facilitates performing repetitive processes by aggregating application-screens. During operation, the system receives a request from a client to open an application-screen for an application. In response to the request, the system opens the application-screen. Next, the system receives a request to add the application-screen to a custom workflow. In response to the request, the system adds the application-screen to the custom workflow. |
| US08209653B2 |
Router
Configuration of reconfigurable multidimensional fields are described. Information is provided for handling feedback, among other things. |
| US08209651B2 |
Wiring layout decision method of integrated circuit
A wiring layout method includes designing a layout of a power wiring for an integrated circuit; designing a layout of plural signal wirings for the integrated circuit; comparing the signal frequency; classifying the signal wirings; calculating an evaluation value of a temperature rise; and modifying the layouts of the integrated circuit. |
| US08209647B1 |
Extensible verification system
An extensible design verification system and methods thereof are disclosed. Pre-defined constraints from an integrated verification application are registered with a core which manages the verification system. The core is utilized by the integrated verification application to execute one or more verification tasks to generate a result. The result can be captured by a user interface. Constraints and the user-interface can be either pre-defined or user-defined. User-defined constraints and interface are managed in the same manner as those that are pre-defined. The user-defined constraints and interface are exportable for reuse by other designs. |
| US08209646B2 |
Apparatus and method for analyzing source code using path analysis and Boolean satisfiability
A computer readable storage medium includes executable instructions to identify a path in target source code. Constraints associated with the path are extracted. The constraints are converted to a Boolean expression. The Boolean expression is processed with a Boolean satisfiability engine to identify either a feasible path or an infeasible path. A feasible path is statically analyzed, while an infeasible path is not statically analyzed. |
| US08209639B2 |
Identifying layout regions susceptible to fabrication issues by using range patterns
A range pattern is matched to a block of an IC layout by slicing the layout block and the range pattern, followed by comparing a sequence of widths of layout slices to a sequence of width ranges of pattern slices and if the width of any layout slice falls outside the width range of a corresponding pattern slice then the layout block does not match the range pattern. If the comparison succeeds, further comparisons are made between a sequence of lengths of layout fragments in each layout slice and a sequence of length ranges of pattern fragments in corresponding pattern slices. If the length of any layout fragment falls outside the length range of a corresponding pattern fragment then the block does not match the range pattern. If all lengths are within their respective ranges, then the block matches the pattern, although additional constraints are checked in some embodiments. |
| US08209637B2 |
Unlocking a device by performing gestures on an unlock image
A device with a touch-sensitive display may be unlocked via gestures performed on the touch-sensitive display. The device is unlocked if contact with the display corresponds to a predefined gesture for unlocking the device. The device displays one or more unlock images with respect to which the predefined gesture is to be performed in order to unlock the device. The performance of the predefined gesture with respect to the unlock image may include moving the unlock image to a predefined location and/or moving the unlock image along a predefined path. The device may also display visual cues of the predefined gesture on the touch screen to remind a user of the gesture. |
| US08209636B2 |
Control system based on image or voice identification and a control method thereof
A control system based on image or voice identification includes a display unit, an order-catching device, a control device, a database and an acting device. A control method thereof includes steps of: showing a plurality of selection codes by the display unit for a user to observe and give an order according to one of the selection codes; catching images or voices of the order through the order-catching device and delivering the caught order to the control device; interpreting the order to obtain an action code, searching the database, and identifying one of the selection codes identical to the action code by the control device; and transmitting a control signal from the control device to the acting device, with the control signal corresponding to the selection code. |