Document Document Title
US08206654B2 Catalyst feed systems and methods for using the same
Catalyst feed systems and processes utilizing such systems are described herein. Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a process for improving the flowability of catalyst in a catalyst feed system, including providing a catalyst feed vessel with at least one heat exchange system for maintaining the catalyst system temperature below a critical flow temperature. Also disclosed is a catalyst feed system for the polymerization of olefins including a catalyst feed vessel; and a heat exchange system for maintaining a temperature of a catalyst within the catalyst feed vessel. Additionally disclosed is a process for polymerization of olefins including maintaining a supported catalyst in a catalyst feed vessel below a critical flow temperature of the catalyst; feeding the catalyst to a polymerization reactor; and contacting the catalyst with an olefin to form a polyolefin.
US08206647B2 Beverage manufacture, processing, packaging and dispensing using electrochemically activated water
A system using electrochemically-activated water (ECAW) for manufacturing, processing, packaging, and dispensing beverages. The system uses ECAW solutions in the beverage facility clean-in-place system to achieve improved microbial control while greatly reducing water usage and reducing or eliminating the use of chemical detergents and disinfectants.
US08206646B2 Method for consolidating and diffusion-bonding powder metallurgy sputtering target
Methods for manufacturing sputtering target assemblies and assemblies thereof are provided, particularly targets made of powders. Powders are adhered to a backing plate by use of a vacuum hot press, the powder preferably contacted by non-planar surfaces, and is compressed with at least about 95% density and substantially simultaneously diffusion-bonded to the backing plate.
US08206640B2 Process for collection of continuous fibers as a uniform batt
A process and apparatus for collecting continuous fibers or filaments as a uniform batt comprises a filament emitter in the form of a spinning die, a venturi, a diffuser, and a fiber collection bed. The filaments move downward after being created by the emitter, and exhaust ports create in the diffuser an airflow having a direction against the flow of the filaments so that the filaments are decelerated before contacting the fiber collection bed.
US08206634B2 Method of manufacturing a light guiding panel and an apparatus for the same, and a particle blasting apparatus for manufacturing the light guiding panel
Disclosed are a method of manufacturing a light guiding panel by means of carving fine engravings on a surface of a transparent substrate by plasting fine particles and an apparatus for the same. A distributed degree of the engravings gradually increases as they become far away from a light source position. The light guiding panel which has been so manufactured does not need a diffusion sheet and has a good brightness uniformity and a good light effectiveness.
US08206633B2 Method and apparatus for forming slats for fabric in coverings for architectural openings
A method and apparatus for forming a transversely curved or formed strip of material which can be cut to length for use in a fabric for coverings for architectural opening includes a supply role of a flexible fabric strip material that is sequentially passed through a heating chamber with an elongated upwardly convex extrusion across which the strip material is drawn and a cooling station before being wrapped on a take-up drum. The apparatus includes driven rollers about which the strip material passes and the strip material is exposed to tension detectors and controlled temperatures such that the strip material formed in the apparatus is uniform along its length.
US08206630B2 Method for producing a cleat sole
The invention relates to a method for the production of a sole (3) having at least one cleat (1), wherein the cleat (1) is arranged at the bottom side (2) of the sole (3). To improve the demoulding of the sole supplied with cleats from the injection molding tool, the invention comprises the steps: a) Production of at least on cleat (1), wherein the cleat (1) has a cleat base body (4) which can be connected with the sole (3), wherein at least one extension (5) is arranged at the cleat base body (5) which extents toward the ground; b) Inserting of the cleat (1) in a holding part (6), wherein the holding part (6) has a congruent receiving space (7) for at least a part of the cleat base body (4) and for the extension (5); c) Placing of the cleat (1) together with the holding part (6) in a recess (8) in a at least two-part injection molding tool (9, 10), so that a part of the cleat (1) projects into the cavity (11) which is formed between the parts of the injection molding tool; d) Injection molding of at least a part of the sole (3) by injecting of plastic melt into the cavity (11) of the injection molding tool (9, 10), so that a part of the cleat (1) is coated by the plastic melt; e) Demoulding of the injection-molded sole (3) together with the coated cleat (1) and the holding part (6); f) Removing of the holding part (6) from the cleat (1).
US08206618B2 Color filter ink set, color filter, image display device, and electronic device
A color filter ink set is adapted to be used to manufacture a color filter by an inkjet method. The color filter ink set includes a plurality of inks with each of the inks including a colorant and a liquid medium that disperses and/or dissolves the colorant. The inks include a green ink having C. I. Pigment Green 58 and a substance represented by a prescribed chemical formula. A viscosity at 25° C. of the liquid medium of the green ink is lower than a viscosity at 25° C. of the liquid medium of the ink other than the green ink. A difference (ηmax−ηmin) between a viscosity (ηmax (mPa·s)) of the ink having the highest viscosity among the inks at 25° C. and a viscosity (ηmin (mPa·s)) of the ink having the lowest viscosity among the inks at 25° C. is 1.0 mPa·s or less.
US08206617B2 Iridium-containing phosphor and method for producing the same
An iridium-containing group II-VI compound phosphor capable of efficiently emitting light without any economical problems or problems in energy efficiency or color purity is provided. A method for producing the phosphor is also provided. The phosphor comprises iridium and a group II-VI compound semiconductor, and the iridium is uniformly dispersed in surfaces of phosphor particles and in an inside of the phosphor particles. The method for producing the iridium-containing phosphor comprises firing an inorganic composition containing a group II-VI compound semiconductor and an iridium compound, and an iridium complex salt is used as the iridium compound.
US08206611B2 Phosphor and use thereof
A phosphor which emits light having high brightness, serves as an excellent orange or red phosphor whose light brightness is less decreased when exposed to an excitation source contains a crystal phase having the chemical composition expressed by the general formula [1]: (1−a−b)(Ln′pMII′1−pMIII′MIV′N3).a(MIV′(3n+2)/4NnO).b(AMIV′2N3)  [1] wherein Ln′ represents a metal element selected from the group consisting of lanthanoids, Mn, and Ti; MnII′ represents a divalent metal element except the Ln′ element; MIII′ represents a trivalent metal element; MIV′ represents a tetravalent metal element; A represents a metal element selected from the group consisting of Li, Na, and K; 00, 0≦n, and 0.002≦(3n+2)a/4≦0.9.
US08206608B2 Highly thermal conductive compound
The present invention provides a highly thermal conductive compound which has a high thermal conductivity, has a high consistency and a good coating workableness, and is excellent in thermal stability at a high temperature. A highly thermal conductive compound containing (A) 85 to 97% by mass of an inorganic powder filler, (B) 2 to 15% by mass of a base oil, and (C) 0.001 to 10% by mass of a compound represented by Y—(—R2—COO—)n—R1—X (wherein R1 and R2 each is a bivalent hydrocarbon group having a linear or branched chain having 1 to 36 carbon atoms, n is 1 to 15, X and Y each is at least one substituent selected from the group consisting of a carboxyl group and a hydroxyl group or a hydrogen atom, and at least one of X and Y is a carboxyl group or a hydroxyl group.
US08206605B2 Substrate processing method and substrate processing system
A substrate processing method capable of preventing a reduction in productivity of the fabrication of a semiconductor device from a substrate. An HF gas is supplied toward a wafer having a thermally-oxidized film, a BPSG film, and a deposit film, to thereby selectively etch the BPSG film and the deposit film using fluorinated acid. A residual matter of H2SiF6 produced at the time of etching is decomposed into HF and SiF4 by being heated.
US08206604B2 Methods and arrangements for managing plasma confinement
A method for confining plasma within a plasma processing chamber while processing a substrate is provided. The method includes igniting the plasma within a plasma generating area, wherein the plasma generating area is surrounded by a set of confinement rings. The method also includes providing a chamber wall outside of the set of confinement rings. The method further includes providing a dielectric liner electrode arrangement positioned between the chamber wall and the set of confinement rings, wherein the dielectric liner electrode arrangement having an electrode encapsulated within a dielectric liner, the dielectric liner electrode arrangement being coupled with the chamber wall to create a modified chamber wall. The method yet also includes providing a parallel LC circuit arrangement, the parallel LC circuit arrangement being coupled between the dielectric liner electrode arrangement and the chamber wall.
US08206603B2 Methods of etching nanodots, methods of fabricating integrated circuit devices and device structures, methods of etching a layer comprising a late transition metal, and methods of forming a plurality of transistor gate constructions
Embodiments of the invention include methods of etching nanodots, to methods of removing nanodots from substrates, and to methods of fabricating integrated circuit devices. In one embodiment, a method of etching nanodots that include a late transition metal includes exposing such nanodots to a gas comprising a phosphorus and halogen-containing compound and an oxidizing agent. After the exposing, the nanodots which are remaining and were exposed are etched (either partially or completely) with an aqueous solution comprising HF.
US08206602B2 Method of manufacturing magnetic recording medium
According to one embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a magnetic recording medium, including forming a first hard mask including carbon as a main component, a second hard mask including a main component other than carbon and a resist on a magnetic recording layer, contacting a stamper to the resist to transfer patterns of protrusions and recesses to the resist, removing residues in the recesses of the patterned resist, etching the second hard mask, etching the first hard mask, patterning the magnetic recording layer, and removing the first hard mask, the method further including, between etching the first hard mask and removing the first hard mask, removing the second hard mask remaining on the protrusions of the first hard mask, and removing a contaminating layer on a surface of the first hard mask by a mixed gas of oxygen-based gas and a fluorine compound.
US08206599B2 Washbox
Exemplary systems and methods relating to washboxes are described.
US08206596B2 Magnetic separation apparatus and method for recovery of solid material from solid-liquid mixture
The present invention relates to a magnetic separation apparatus for continuous separating and recovering magnetic solid particles from a solid-liquid mixture. The apparatus includes at least one magnetic separation unit and each unit includes: an outer cylindrical vessel having a material inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet; an inner cylindrical vessel, at least part of which extends along the axis inside the first cylindrical vessel without contacting with the inner surface of the outer cylindrical vessel; and a magnet, rendering the bottom of the inner cylindrical vessel magnetism during the first period and making the part of the surface lose its magnetism during a second period. When the solid-liquid mixture flows through the magnetic surface of the inner cylindrical vessel in the passage, the magnetic solids are absorbed and separated from the mixture.
US08206595B2 Method of recovering silver using anion-exchange resin
The present invention provides a method of recovering silver safely and efficiently from a chloride or bromide bath containing various metals. Specifically, a method of recovering silver from a hydrochloric acid solution containing alkali and/or alkaline earth metal chloride, silver, copper and iron ions, comprising the steps of: (1) bringing the solution into contact with a strong-base anion-exchange resin to adsorb silver, copper, and iron on the anion-exchange resin; (2) then washing the anion-exchange resin with water to remove the adsorbed copper and iron; and (3) then bringing the ion-exchange resin into contact with a hydrochloric acid solution to elute the adsorbed silver, is provided.
US08206585B2 Automatic oil-water separation and recovery system used on ships
An automatic oil-water separation and recovery device, which comprises a cylindrical tank, on the top of which exists an oil collector. The tank has an inflow pipe that links to a pre-separation regulating water distributor therein. The said water distributor is in the shape of an obconic bell mouth. At the lower part of the tank stands an outflow collector on which a bar-shaped oil-water separation unit is secured. The said outflow collector has an outlet. The said oil-water separation unit is made from stainless steel or plastic antipriming pipe firstly wrapped with unwoven cloth, and then taped with wires and outside the wires further wrapped with nonwoven cloth. All the cloth and wires are made of the same highly hydrophilic, oil-resistant material. The automatic oil-water separation and recovery devices described in this invention can be assembled together for separating and recovering ship-generated oily water. The assembled system works very well even though the oil content in the oily water fluctuates significantly. The average oil content in the treated water is about or lower than 5.0 m/L.
US08206584B2 Electrically conductive fluid treatment elements
Fluid treatment elements substantially inhibit electrical charge imbalances and/or build-ups of electrical charges. A fluid treatment element may comprise a multilayer composite including an electrically conductive fibrous matrix, having an upstream side and a downstream side, disposed on a porous substrate, also having an upstream side and a downstream side, which supports the fibrous matrix. The fibrous matrix may include a combination of conductive and nonconductive fibers. The multilayer composite may also include a drainage layer positioned along one of the upstream side of the fibrous matrix and the downstream side of the porous substrate.
US08206582B2 Shaking device for filter plates of filter press
A shaking device for filter plates of a filter press including a fixed support, a movable frame, a sleeve spring device, and a shaking rod. The fixed support includes a main beam and a support crossbeam. The movable frame includes a frame crossbeam and a vertical beam. The movable frame is disposed on the support crossbeam. One end of the sleeve spring device is attached to the frame crossbeam and the other end is attached to the shaking rod. The movable frame is driven by a gear motor. The shaking device further includes a cylinder assembly. The cylinder assembly is coaxially connected with the sleeve spring device and the shaking rod in a straight line. When the cylinder assembly acts on the shaking rod, the shaking rod shakes to separate and shakes a plurality of filter cloth rods of the filter plates to remove the filter cakes.
US08206581B2 High efficiency reverse osmosis system
A high efficiency reverse osmosis system which utilizes a tuned injector in fluidic communication with a reverse osmosis membrane. The tuned injector includes an injector housing, an injector nozzle, a mixing chamber and an injector throat. The tuned injector utilizes line hydrostatic pressure to inject raw water with an injector nozzle into the mixing chamber to mix with recirculated concentrate water drawn into the mixing chamber by venturi effect and hydrostatic pressure to form feed water. The feed water is then discharged through the injector throat across a reverse osmosis membrane to produce permeate water using the line hydrostatic pressure.
US08206577B2 System and method for pretreatment of solid carbonaceous material
This invention encompasses systems and methods for pretreating a carbonaceous material, comprising heating to a suitable temperature and for a suitable reaction time, a mixture comprising the carbonaceous material, one or more catalysts or catalyst precursors and a hydrocarbonaceous liquid.
US08206576B2 Nickel based catalyst using hydrotalcite-like precursor and steam reforming reaction of LPG
The present invention relates to a nickel-based catalyst using hydrotalcite-like precursor and a steam reforming reaction by using the catalyst, and particularly to a nickel-based catalyst prepared by dispersing nickel uniformly onto the inner part and the surface of the support through a substitution between the magnesium and the active nickel metal and optimizing the molar ratios of nickel, magnesium and aluminum in order to utilize nickel as an active metal and a hydrotalcite-like precursor consisting of aluminum and magnesium, which shows an increased specific surface area of the catalyst and surface area of the active nickel, and thus enables the production of hydrogen-rich gas in high yield during the steam reforming reaction of LPG with superior maintenance of catalytic activity for a long period of time due to the inhibition of carbon deposition.
US08206575B2 Hydroconversion processes employing multi-metallic catalysts and method for making thereof
A process for upgrading a hydrocarbon feedstock by hydroprocessing using multi-metallic catalysts is disclosed. In one aspect, the invention relates to hydroprocessing of a hydrocarbon feedstock using a catalyst derived from a catalyst precursor of the formula Av[(MP)(OH)x(L)ny]z(MVIBO4), wherein A comprises an alkali metal cation, an ammonium, an organic ammonium or a phosphonium cation, MP is selected from Group VIII, Group IIB, Group IIA, Group IVA and combinations thereof, L is an organic, oxygen-containing ligand, MVIB is at least one of Group VIB metals, and the atomic ratio of MVIII:MVIB is between 100:1 and 1:100.
US08206574B2 Addition of a reactor process to a coking process
A reactor process added to a coking process to modify the quantity or yield of a coking process product and/or modify certain characteristics or properties of coking process products.
US08206566B2 Electrochemical measurement system for the trace heavy metals in organic waste water
Disclosed herein is an electrochemical measurement system for analyzing heavy metals in organic compound-containing samples, comprising: a lower plate; a flow channel plate; an upper plate; an organic compound-decomposing electrode and a heavy metal analysis electrode; and a flow changeover portion. The disclosed system can continuously perform a pretreatment process for organic compound decomposition and a process for heavy metal analysis, thus making it possible to achieve the selective analysis and separation of heavy metals in wastewater. Also, it can substitute for expensive spectrophotometric analysis equipment and makes it possible to monitor trace heavy metals on-line in situ. In addition, it may include a small-sized battery as a power source, such that it is easy to carry and use.
US08206557B2 Methods and apparatus for distillation of shallow depth fluids
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a housing that has at least an inlet and an outlet. The housing is configured to receive a volume of fluid via the inlet. The volume of fluid is in a substantially liquid state and at least a portion of the volume of fluid includes a dissolved impurity. The apparatus also includes a heat-transfer element coupled to an interior volume of the housing. The heat-transfer element includes a surface, at least a portion of which is disposed at an angle with respect to a horizontal plane. The volume of fluid includes a surface parallel to the horizontal plane. The apparatus further includes a compression component configured to compress at least a portion of fluid boiled from the volume of fluid.
US08206555B2 Methods employing an impermeable transfer belt in a papermaking machine
A papermaking machine for making paper includes a forming section, a press section, and a drying section. The paper web is pressed between two press members while enclosed between a press felt and a transfer belt having non-uniformly distributed microscopic depressions in its surface, the web following the transfer belt from the press to a transfer point at which the web is transferred via a suction transfer device onto a structuring fabric, the web then being dried on a drying cylinder. The transfer point is spaced a distance D from the press nip selected based on machine speed, a basis weight of the web, and the surface characteristics of the transfer belt, such that within the distance D a thin water film between the web and the transfer belt at least partially dissipates to allow the web to be separated from the transfer belt.
US08206552B2 RF power delivery system in a semiconductor apparatus
Embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus which provide good RF uniformity within a processing chamber. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a substrate support assembly, a terminal, and a dielectric insulator. The substrate support assembly has a center passage formed along a center axis. An RF transmission line is provided. The RF transmission line has a substantially vertical portion and a substantially horizontal portion, wherein the terminal is coupled to the substantially horizontal portion of the RF transmission line. The dielectric insulator circumscribes the substantially horizontal portion of the RF transmission line. The dielectric insulator has a first opening through which the terminal passes.
US08206551B2 Processing thin wafers
There is described a wafer processing system for thinned wafers that are easily broken during handling. The system protects against breakage during handling and provides for temperature controls during processing.
US08206550B2 Method and system for manufacturing semiconductor device having less variation in electrical characteristics
A system for manufacturing a semiconductor device that has a gate electrode and a pair of diffusion layers formed in a semiconductor substrate on sides of the gate electrode, the system including structure for forming an insulating film and a gate electrode on a semiconductor substrate, obtaining a thickness of an affected layer formed in a surface of the semiconductor substrate, forming a pair of diffusion layers by injecting an impurity element into the semiconductor substrate in areas flanking the gate electrodes based on a predetermined injection parameter, performing activating heat treatment based on a predetermined heat treatment parameter, and deriving the injection parameter or heat treatment parameter in response to the obtained thickness of the affected layer such that the diffusion layers are set to a predetermined sheet resistance.
US08206549B2 Etching apparatus
An etching apparatus includes: an etching chamber; a piping unit disposed in an upper portion of the etching chamber and including a plurality of nozzles via which an etchant is sprayed; a substrate mask disposed below the piping unit; and a transfer unit disposed below the substrate mask and used to transfer a substrate. The substrate mask interposed between the piping unit including the nozzles and the substrate has a mesh structure or a plurality of holes or slits. Thus, the generation of microbubbles can be prevented during a wet etching process so that a thin layer formed on the substrate can be etched at a uniform etch rate. Also, a lift unit having a fixing unit may be disposed on a lateral surface of the substrate mask. The lift unit moves the substrate mask up and down so as to obtain a uniform etch rate.
US08206546B2 Heat shield having strain compliant matrix and method of forming same
A heat shield having a honeycomb core. The honeycomb core has a plurality of intersecting wall portions forming a plurality of cells. A strain compliant material is applied to the wall portions of the honeycomb core prior to filling of the cells with an ablative material. An ablative material at least substantially fills the cells of the honeycomb core.
US08206542B2 Method for manufacturing bamboo mats, bamboo mats and use thereof
A method for manufacturing bamboo mats which also relates to the use of such bamboo mats including bamboo mats and products manufactured from such bamboo mats. This method is found to produce bamboo mats with an improved form-retention and durability compared to known bamboo mats made of strips obtained directly from the ‘wet’ bamboo stem. The bamboo mats can be used in interior construction, for instance for furniture or the covering of floors, walls and ceiling.
US08206541B2 Finished carbon fiber collar stays and related methods
A method for manufacturing a finished carbon fiber (FCF) collar stay includes the steps of fabricating a FCF sheet having at least one design and producing a FCF collar stay from the FCF sheet. A finished carbon fiber (FCF) collar stay has at least one carbon fiber sheet impregnated with resin; the sheet may produce a plurality of like FCF stays.
US08206539B2 Panel of roofing shingles
A roofing panel, a roof, an array of roofing panels, and a method of manufacturing a roofing panel by transporting a capstock layer of the roofing panel through a moving belt mold, and forming a polymeric material in situ against the outer layer while in a mold cavity of the moving belt mold. The capstock layer is vacuum formed to shape and form a plurality of roofing shingles and to impress the shingles with surface topography features simulating natural materials.
US08206538B2 Composite with thermo-formability, method for making the same and method for making a casing with texture on surface thereof
The present invention relates to a composite with thermo-formability, a method for making the same and a method for making a casing with a texture on the surface thereof. The composite includes a polyurethane medium layer, a thermo-formable resin layer, a base layer and a surface layer. The thermo-formable resin layer is disposed on the polyurethane medium layer, and includes polyol. The base layer is disposed on the thermo-formable resin layer. The surface layer is disposed on the base layer. As a result, the composite has good stability after thermoforming, and plastic can be injected into the composite, so a PC film is unnecessary. Moreover, the composite may be adhered to a substrate directly or after thermoforming.
US08206537B2 Method for forming a conducting multi-polymer nanostructure
A method for forming a conducting multi-polymer nanostructure. The method includes forming a first conducting polymer nanostructure on a first electrode of a template, forming a second conducting polymer nanostructure on a second electrode of the template, and transferring the first and second conducting polymer nanostructures onto a substrate. The first conducting polymer is different from the second conducting polymer.
US08206536B2 Method of stacking flexible substrate
A method of stacking a flexible substrate is provided. The method includes the steps of: preparing a carrier substrate; stacking an adhesive layer on the carrier substrate; and stacking a flexible substrate having at least one image display device on the adhesive layer using a laminating or pressing method. Thus, the flexible substrate is easily fabricated without modification of conventional mass-production equipment for fabricating a display, and thereby a lightweight, thin, and compact flexible display can be realized.
US08206535B2 Inkjet printheads
A method of making an inkjet printhead comprising providing a substrate having first and second opposite surfaces, providing a support member, bonding the second surface of the substrate to the support member, and, after the substrate and support member are bonded together, forming a plurality of ink ejection elements on the first surface of the substrate, the method further including forming communicating ink supply slots passing respectively through the substrate and support member to provide fluid communication between an ink supply and the ink ejection elements.
US08206529B2 Method and device for internal refurbishment of corroded hollow sections
Corroded hollow sections, more preferably of orthotropic slabs, are cleaned and de-rusted on the inner surface with a rotating maximum-pressure water-jet continuously guided through the hollow section and angle-adjustable feeler-controlled corresponding to the respective interior surface region and capable of being throttled in critical regions. For the sealing of entering moisture and for corrosion protection as well as to improve the vibration behavior and the strength characteristics of the orthotropic slab, the cleaned and dried inner surface is holohedrally connected with a shapeable and stretchable fabric hose coated with a water-proof plastic in a sealing manner by means of an adhesive and using a pressure medium or a memory plastic hollow profile assuming its original shape under the effect of heat, wherein the internal pressure is maintained up to the curing of the adhesive.
US08206507B2 Evaporation method, evaporation device and method of fabricating light emitting device
The invention provides an evaporation apparatus, which is able to improve an efficiency of evaporation materials, uniformity of deposited films, and throughput of the evaporation process. Disclosed is an evaporation source holder, which is installed in an evaporation chamber and configured to hold an evaporation material, and a moving mechanism, which is configured to move the evaporation source holder during evaporation of the evaporation material. The evaporation apparatus is further characterized by a shutter over the evaporation source holder, a filter over the shutter, and a heater surrounding the filter.
US08206503B2 Method and composition for making a concrete product from sludge
A method for making a sludge aggregate concrete includes the steps of collecting and dehydrating sludge, sintering the sludge at a temperature of about 800˜900° C., grinding and sieving the sludge through a screen to obtain sludge ash, forming the sludge ash into an artificial sludge aggregate by mixing the sludge ash with an inorganic binder and water followed by granularizing, and mixing the artificial sludge aggregate with an inorganic binder and water to form the sludge aggregate concrete product.
US08206502B2 Titanyl phthalocyanine with improved milling properties
The invention is directed to mixtures of PcTiO and a minor amount of another, substituted titanyl phthalocyanine and the synthesis of mixtures of PcTiO and a minor amount of another, substituted titanyl phthalocyanine. The invention is further directed towards milled pigment compositions of such mixtures, and to use of such milled pigment compositions in an electrophotographic element.
US08206501B2 Heat and rain erosion resistant coating
A binder formulation is provided that is capable of forming a heat and erosion resistant coating on the surface of a substrate, particularly a substrate comprising titanium or aluminum. The binder formulation comprises a metal alkoxide compound, such as a titanium alkoxide and an organosilane, such as 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane (GTMS). The binder material may be capable of strongly bonding the binder to the substrate. The binder coating may also include one or more additives that may help improve the heat resistance and impact absorbance of the coating. The binder may also include one or more pigments so that the resulting sol-gel coating has a desired appearance and properties. The sol-gel coating can be cured under ambient conditions and does not require additional heat curing.
US08206499B2 Stable bitumen foam and its preparation and use
A process for the preparation of bitumen foam, wherein a gas is dispersed into the bitumen with a temperature of less than 200° C. and with a viscosity from 100-10,000 mPas measured at the temperature using EN 12596, wherein the process includes bringing the gas tangentially into contact with a bitumen stream, to obtain a bitumen foam that is not dehydrogenated, oxidised or otherwise chemically modified, and in which at least 10 vol % gas is distributed substantially homogeneously. This process can be applied simply and safely, and results in bitumen foam without additions being necessary for this. In this way bitumen can be processed at lower temperatures, even below 100° C., to asphalt or wearing course. The foam bitumen thereby has a half-life time that is much longer than the one of existing bitumen foams
US08206498B2 Methods of recovery of pore-forming agents for mesostructured materials
The invention provides methods of recovering a pore-forming agent from an inorganic material that defines a plurality of mesopores having a controlled cross sectional area to form a mesostructure having long-range crystallinity and also to methods of making one or more mesostructures that features removal, recovery, and/or reuse of the pore-forming agent. Suitable pore-forming agents include, for example, surfactants.
US08206497B2 Polyphenylated phthalocyanines with near-infrared absorption
Polyphenylated phthalocyanine water-soluble dyes with near-infrared absorption comprise four isoindole units linked together in a large ring to form a phthalocyanine macrocycle, with either four anthracenyl groups or four naphthacenyl groups each linked to an isoindole, and a metal atom optionally complexed to the phthalocyanine macrocycle.
US08206496B2 Mixed phthalocyanine and naphthalocyanine dyes for near-infrared applications
Mixed phthalocyanine and naphthalocyanine water-soluble dyes with near-infrared absorption comprise four isoindole units linked together in a large ring to form a phthalocyanine macrocycle. At least one benzene ring is linked to an isoindole unit and at least one naphthalene ring is linked to another isoindole unit. The remaining two isoindole units each have a benzene ring or a naphthalene ring linked thereto, in any combination. A metal atom is optionally complexed to the phthalocyanine macrocycle.
US08206493B2 Gas separation membrane
Problem to be Solved: To provide a gas separation membrane having an excellent performance balance (balance between gas permeation performance and gas separation ability) as a gas separation membrane.Solution: A gas separation membrane comprising a porous support member and a gas separating resin layer formed on the porous support member, wherein the porous support member has a mode diameter as measured by a mercury porosimeter of from 0.005 μm to 0.3 μm, and a pore size distribution index as measured by the mercury porosimeter of from 1 to 15.
US08206491B2 Apparatus for water separation in the vacuum system of a paper machine and method for utilizing the same
An apparatus is provided for implementing water separation in the vacuum system of a paper machine. The apparatus includes a guiding baffle structure connected to an inlet pipe and a water trap vessel, and a droplet separation cell mounted at the mouth of an outlet pipe.
US08206490B2 Contaminant separator and isolation loop for a fuel reactant stream for a fuel cell
A separator scrubber (58) and isolation loop (78) decontaminates a fuel reactant stream of a fuel cell (12). Water passes over surfaces of an ammonia dissolving means (61) within the scrubber (58) while the fuel reactant stream simultaneously passes over the surfaces to remove contaminants from the fuel reactant into the water. An accumulator (68) collects the separated contaminants and water, and an isolation loop pump (84) directs flow of the separated contaminant stream through the isolation loop (78). A heat exchanger (86) and an ion exchange bed (88) modify the heat of, and remove contaminants from, the separated contaminant stream, and the isolation loop (78) directs the decontaminated stream back onto the packed bed (62)-. Separating contaminants from the fuel reactant stream and then isolating and concentrating the separated contaminants within the ion exchange bed (88) minimizes cost and maintenance requirements.
US08206482B2 Vacuum appliance filter assemblies and associated vacuum systems
Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both dry and wet/dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as systems incorporating the use of such filters and methods for their use. The filters include a plurality of adjacently positioned pleats arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orifice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.
US08206481B2 HEPA (H-10) performance synthetic nonwoven and nanofiber composite filter media
A composite filter media structure and an associated method of making are provided. The structure includes a base substrate that includes a nonwoven fabric substrate formed from a plurality of bicomponent synthetic fibers using a spunbond process. The composite filter media structure includes a nanofiber layer deposited on one side of the base substrate by an electro-blown spinning process. In one aspect, the base substrate and the nanofiber layer are configured to provide at least an 85% filtration efficiency measured in accordance with an ASHRAE 52.2-1999 test method. In another aspect, the nanofiber layer has a basis weight of about 2.0 g/m2 to about 3.0 g/m2.
US08206480B2 Air filter unit with at least one main air filter and an auxiliary filter
In an air filter unit (10) comprising at least one main air filter (1) and an auxiliary air filter (2) that is connected by an air conduit (3) to the main air filter (1) and has at least one auxiliary filter element, the auxiliary filter element is formed, at the unfiltered air side of the main air filter (1), by an at least partially porous wall of the air conduit (3) closed off at the intake side. In the reverse case, when installing at the filtered air side, the auxiliary filter element is arranged within the air conduit connected to the main air filter.
US08206479B2 Air filter having fluted filter media
An air cleaner includes a housing and an access cover. The internal volume of the housing can be reached through an opening in a side wall of the housing. A filter element having fluted filter media is removable and replaceable from the air cleaner. The housing is constructed and arranged to cam the element into sealing engagement with the housing. The access cover includes structure to help support and ensure proper seating of the filter element within the housing. A method of installing the filter element in the air cleaner includes sliding a portion of the filter element against a slide surface in the housing. A method of servicing an air cleaner includes tilting the filter element against a tilt surface in the housing to release a seal between the filter element and the housing. The filter element can have a handle to assist in servicing of the air cleaner. The housing can have a window to allow visual inspection of the internal component of the housing and to determine visually whether a filter element is installed therein.
US08206477B2 Liquid trap device for gas
A liquid trap device for a gas is provided which includes a trap housing (3) that is formed from a ceiling wall (5), a bottom wall (6) and a peripheral wall (7), the ceiling wall (5) having provided therein a gas inlet port (20) and a gas outlet port (21), and a filter element (4) that is retained between the ceiling wall (5) and the bottom wall (6), the interior of the filter element (4) communicating with the gas inlet port (20) and the outer peripheral face of the filter element (4) communicating with the gas outlet port (21) via an internal space (8) of the trap housing (3), wherein the trap housing (3) is formed as a shape that in plan view is long along one laterally central line (X), and the filter element (4) and an outlet port upstream portion (21a), opening within the trap housing (3), of the gas outlet port (21) are disposed in proximity to first and second side wall portions (7a, 7b) respectively of the peripheral wall (7) facing each other on the laterally central line (X). This enables a liquid trap device for a gas to be provided in which a sufficient lateral distance from a filter element to a gas outlet can be guaranteed while having small dimensions and the performance in capturing a liquid can be enhanced.
US08206476B2 Cover for a diesel particulate filter
A cover (120) for a diesel particulate filter (106) includes a hollow chamber (128) with an open bottom (140) sized to receive the body of the diesel particulate filter (106), and a plenum (156) attached to the hollow chamber (128) to receive a supply of air, and to distribute that air to an air vent (152) formed in the top surface (150) of the hollow chamber (128) to direct the air across the top surface of the diesel particulate filter (106).
US08206474B2 Abrasive compacts
An abrasive compact having at least a tri-modal particle size distribution, and a binder phase, define a plurality of interstices. The binder phase is distributed in the interstices to form binder pools that correspond substantially in average size to that of an ultrahard polycrystalline composite material having a monomodal particle size distribution and substantially the same overall average particle grain size.
US08206471B1 Systems, apparatus and methods for optimizing the production of energy products from biomass, such as sawmill waste
Efficient biomass conversion systems, methods and apparatus utilize a fast pyrolysis unit installed at a sawmill or similar location where substantial quantities of biomass are generated, with the biomass generated at the sawmill fed into the fast pyrolysis unit under pyrolytic reaction conditions, and with exhaust gases containing entrained matter resulting from the pyrolytic reactions being separated into constituent char and bio-fuel constituents.
US08206469B2 Battery structures, self-organizing structures and related methods
An energy storage device includes a first electrode comprising a first material and a second electrode comprising a second material, at least a portion of the first and second materials forming an interpenetrating network when dispersed in an electrolyte, the electrolyte, the first material and the second material are selected so that the first and second materials exert a repelling force on each other when combined. An electrochemical device, includes a first electrode in electrical communication with a first current collector; a second electrode in electrical communication with a second current collector; and an ionically conductive medium in ionic contact with said first and second electrodes, wherein at least a portion of the first and second electrodes form an interpenetrating network and wherein at least one of the first and second electrodes comprises an electrode structure providing two or more pathways to its current collector.
US08206468B2 Battery structures, self-organizing structures and related methods
An energy storage device includes a first electrode comprising a first material and a second electrode comprising a second material, at least a portion of the first and second materials forming an interpenetrating network when dispersed in an electrolyte, the electrolyte, the first material and the second material are selected so that the first and second materials exert a repelling force on each other when combined. An electrochemical device, includes a first electrode in electrical communication with a first current collector; a second electrode in electrical communication with a second current collector; and an ionically conductive medium in ionic contact with said first and second electrodes, wherein at least a portion of the first and second electrodes form an interpenetrating network and wherein at least one of the first and second electrodes comprises an electrode structure providing two or more pathways to its current collector.
US08206465B2 Azo pigments, pigment dispersion, coloring composition, and ink for inkjet recording
An azo pigment showing excellent coloring characteristics such as tinctorial strength and hue and excellent fastness such as light fastness, and a pigment dispersion containing the azo pigment are provided. An azo pigment represented by the following general formula (1) and a pigment dispersion containing the pigment: Wherein Y, G, X1, X2, R1, R2 and R3 are defined in the claims and in the specification.
US08206463B2 Colored article of manufacture and a process for its preparation
A process for making a colored article of manufacture is disclosed. Accordingly an article of manufacture is first prepared of a material selected from the group consisting of metal, wood, glass, ceramic, masonry and polymeric materials. A polymeric coating (superstrate) is then applied to at least a portion of the surface of the article. At least a portion of the superstrate is brought into contact with a material system that contains (i) water, (ii) a carrier, (iii) a dye and (iv) a diol, under conditions calculated to bring about diffusion of said dye into said superstrate.
US08206461B1 Process and device for treating leather
Leather in form of hides or articles of leather or other articles comprised of similarly behaving material is introduced (for purposes of this application all of these articles of leather jointly referred to as “hides”) into rotating drum or stirring vessel or other form of similar device where it undergoes spraying with chemicals and drying to desired humidity to be followed by drying and another treatment of milling in rotating drum.
US08206458B1 Prosthetic system
A prosthetic device having a housing, an axle, at least three housing vanes, a flow medium and a valve. The axle is disposed within the housing and moveable independently of the housing. The axle has an axle reservoir and at least three axle vanes extending from the axle to contact the chamber wall. The three housing vanes extend from a chamber wall and contact the axle. A first opening and a second opening are formed in each axle vane. The flow medium is contained entirely within the chamber and the axle reservoir. The valve is disposed in the axle and operable in response to movement of the axle in a first direction relative to the housing to allow the flow medium to enter the axle reservoir from the chamber for storage under pressure.
US08206457B2 Prosthetic device for cartilage repair
A triphasic prosthetic device for repairing or replacing cartilage or cartilage-like tissue. The prosthetic device comprises a highly oriented hollow body component between a superficial random oriented polymer layer and a base component.
US08206455B2 Hip stem prosthesis
A hip prosthesis is provided for insertion into a femur. In one exemplary embodiment, the hip prosthesis includes a stem having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis. This stem may include anterior and posterior locking surfaces which diverge away from the longitudinal axis. A shank portion may extend distally from the anterior and posterior locking surfaces and converge at an angle distally toward the longitudinal axis.
US08206454B2 Self-cutting screw-in element
The present invention relates to a self-cutting screw-in element, e.g., an artificial hip joint socket, having a lateral surface which is at least partially curved or buckled in the threaded area, and a thread interrupted by at least one flute having a thread tooth profile tilted in the feed direction, in which the cutting edge formed between flute and thread tooth is displaced on the side of the thread tooth opposite to the feed direction, and/or in which the inclination or twist direction of the flute runs opposite to the twist direction of the thread and the inclination or twist angle of the flute is larger than the pitch angle of the thread. A design of this type is advantageous for specific applications because the forces necessary for screwing-in may thus be significantly reduced without disadvantageous effect on the other properties.
US08206450B2 Composite implants and methods of making and using the same
The present invention provides composite implants for the replacement or augmentation of non-load bearing or load bearing soft tissues, and methods of making and using these implant compositions. In one embodiment, a composite implant of the present invention comprises a soft polymeric component coupled to a porous polymeric substrate.
US08206449B2 Artificial intervertebral disc placement system
An intervertebral disc placement system includes a multi part intervertebral disc, such as a mobile core disc, and an associated placement instrument. The placement instrument holds the disc securely with the disc endplates angled for ease of placement of the disc into an intervertebral disc space and quickly releases the implant within the disc space. The disc includes upper and lower plates having notches in inner surfaces for engagement of the placement instrument. The placement instrument has a rotatable key configured to fit into the first and second notches to grasp the disc from the interior and eliminate the need for an external grasping mechanism which could interfere with disc placement.
US08206445B2 Method of arthroscopically assisted ligament reconstruction
A method of ligament reconstruction comprising forming a femoral tunnel and a tibial tunnel, forming a plurality of supplemental femoral tunnels through a sidewall of the femoral tunnel, and forming a plurality of supplemental tibial tunnels through a sidewall of the tibial tunnel. The plurality of supplemental femoral tunnels and plurality of supplement tibial tunnels providing a basis for suture material fixation of graft tissue/material over cortical bone.
US08206440B2 Implantable ocular microapparatus to ameliorate glaucoma or an ocular overpressure causing disease
A microapparatus (11) implantable in the eye (13) includes a cuasi-bistable microvalve (21) commanded by an intraocular pressure sensor (23) in situ. The microvalve mechanism includes a diaphragm (27) made of a conjugated polymer (29) that shows high deformation and biocompatibility capabilities and which volume depends from the electric potential applied by its pair of electrodes (31). The sensor and actuator-valve are coupled to a drainage conduit (15), the first to deform by the pressure in the ocular globe and the second in a position of buckling to normally close the drainage conduit. The sensor has a membrane of conductive polymeric material with these same properties and whose ohmic resistance varies with the mechanical deformation produced by the ocular pressure.
US08206429B2 Adjustable bifurcation catheter incorporating electroactive polymer and methods of making and using the same
A medical device having at least one static state, at least activated state, and at least one active region including electroactive polymer (EAP) capable of fine electro-activated movements. The EAP movements include bending components for proper alignment, rotating components for pooper fittings, making components more rigid or flexible, and increasing and decreasing the volume of components. The fine movements allow for highly versatile and adaptable medical devices.
US08206426B2 Light source and fiber optic brush for light delivery
A phototherapy apparatus is disclosed including: a handpiece including a body member and a grip; a plurality of elongated light transmitting elements, each of the elements extending between a proximal end enclosed within the body member and a distal end located outside of and distal to the body member; an ultraviolet light source; a light collection element; and one or more optical coupling elements. The proximal ends of the light transmitting elements are located in close proximity to each other The light collection element is configured to collect at least a portion of the light emitted from the light source. The one or more optical coupling elements are configured to direct at least a portion of the collected light to the proximal ends of the light transmitting elements to couple at least portion of the collected light into the light transmitting elements The light coupled into each of the light transmitting elements is transmitted along the element and emitted from the distal end.
US08206425B2 Cranial fixation device
A cranial fixation system and method are provided. The system includes two heads slidably connected with telescopic extensions and a spring or an elastomeric flexible component. The two heads are maintained in a distracted position by a locking mechanism until ready for cranial implantation. Once implanted, the locking mechanism is disengaged, thereby allowing the heads to compress towards each other by the spring and approximate the cranial bone flap to the skull.
US08206424B2 Bone anchoring nail
A bone anchoring nail is provided having a threadless shaft with a free end, a head opposite to the free end, the head having a substantially U-shaped recess for accommodation of a rod or a rod-shaped element, a longitudinal bore extending through the shaft and opening towards any one of the head and the free end and a plurality of openings extending through the wall of the shaft and being in communication with the bore. The bone anchoring nail allows quick insertion and reliable fixation enhanced by the in-growth of blood vessels.
US08206420B2 Spinous process device and method of use
A spinous process device and method are disclosed. The device includes a first plate having a first part slidably coupled to a second part, a second plate having a third part slidably coupled to a fourth part, and first and second connector devices configured to be placed through openings created in spinous processes and rotatably couple respective first and second parts to third and fourth parts of the first and second plates together allowing angular displacement of the second plate with respect to the first plate and secure the spinous processes between the first and second plates.
US08206412B2 Embolic protection during percutaneous heart valve replacement and similar procedures
Various devices are described to provide filtering of flow from the aorta to the left carotid artery and the right carotid artery. The filters can be brought into a desired position through one or more peripheral arteries. A single filter device can provide the desired filtering or a plurality of devices can be used. In particular a single filter device can span between the brachiocephalic artery and the left carotid artery. These filter devices can be used effectively to capture emboli generated during procedures on the heart so that emboli do not travel to the patient's brain where the emboli can cause a stroke or other adverse event. In particular, these filters can be used during percutaneous procedures on the heart, such as endovascular heart valve replacement.
US08206411B2 Trocar housing/stop-cock assembly
A trocar sleeve includes a trocar cannula and a trocar housing having a housing member base and a housing member cover. The trocar cannula and trocar housing are mechanically interfitted to form a trocar sleeve, wherein at least a portion of the trocar cannula sits within the housing member base with the housing member cover sitting over the trocar cannula for securing the at least a portion of the trocar cannula within the housing member base. The trocar sleeve also includes a stop-cock valve mechanically interfitted between the trocar cannula and the trocar housing.
US08206410B2 Surgical operating apparatus
A surgical operating apparatus includes an ultrasonic transducer which generates ultrasonic vibration, a transducer cover including a storing section which stores the ultrasonic transducer, an electric contact portion provided on an outer peripheral surface of a distal end portion of the transducer cover, and an insulative projection portion which is provided at a distal end portion of the transducer cover and projects more radially outward than an outer peripheral surface of the electric contact portion.
US08206404B2 Magnetically guided catheter
A catheter includes a flexible tubing having a proximal end and a distal end. The catheter also includes an electrode assembly attached to the distal end of the flexible tubing and having a first magnet therein. The electrode assembly further includes an electrically conductive tip electrode and an electrically nonconductive coupler which is connected between the tip electrode and the distal end of the flexible tubing. The coupler and the tip electrode are coupled by an interlocking connection. The catheter also includes a second magnet spaced from the electrode assembly along a longitudinal axis of the tubing. The first magnet and the second magnet are responsive to an external magnetic field to selectively position and guide the electrode assembly within a body of a patient.
US08206403B2 Direct access atherectomy devices and methods of use
An atherectomy device containing cannula systems having lumens adapted for insertion of a blood filter and an atherectomy catheter useful for performing atherectomy directly on a patient's cardiovascular tissue. Other embodiments include a lumen for arterial perfusion useful in providing oxygenated blood to the aorta during cardiopulmonary bypass. The distal end of the atherectomy catheter includes an assembly with a pincer, a loop with or without a mesh, laser, hydraulics, or other suitable mechanism adapted for removing atheroma from a cardiac or vascular tissue. Methods of using the systems for vascular atherectomy are also disclosed herein.
US08206400B2 Percutaneous translaminar facet fixation system
A percutaneous facet fixation system minimally invasive, reproducible, efficient, and effective. Capable of immediate stabilization of a facet joint complex, the instrumentation and methods may be used with C-arm and/or endoscopic visualization.
US08206399B2 Artificial intervertebral joint permitting translational and rotational motion
An intervertebral joint prosthesis having a ball component (22) for engagement with a first vertebra (26) and a trough component (24) for engagement with a second vertebra (27) adjacent to the first vertebra is disclosed. The trough component (24) includes a generally concave surface (50) having a substantially flat portion (52). When the ball component (22) and the trough component (24) are engaged to their respective vertebrae, the ball component (72) and the trough component (24) engage each other, permitting rotation and translation of the vertebrae with respect to each other. Both components include a flange (34,56) for engaging a vertebra. The invention also contemplates a method for and a tool for use in implanting a two-piece intervertebral joint prosthesis.
US08206395B2 Surgical instrument and method for the distraction or compression of bones
A surgical instrument for the distraction or compression of bones or bone portions comprises a pair of elongate cross members pivotally coupled for relative movement having at one end a respective pair of handles and at the other end a respective pair of jaws. The jaws are generally parallel to each other and define a first plane within which the jaws are relatively movable, the space on both sides of the plane defining a work space between the jaws. The instrument further comprises a fulcrum supported by at least one of the cross members projecting into the work space and having an axis spaced from the jaws.
US08206394B2 Torque limited instrument for manipulating a spinal rod relative to a bone anchor
An instrument for adjusting a spinal rod relative to a bone anchor includes a handle connecting a set screw driver with a reduction collar. The handle includes an inner shaft engageable with the set screw driver, an outer shaft engageable with the reduction collar, and a clutch connecting the inner shaft to the outer shaft and permitting selective rotation of the inner shaft relative to the outer shaft, and thus, selective rotation of the set screw driver relative to the reduction collar. The handle clutch may include a spring and a plurality of disc clutch members positioned about the outer shaft. The spring biases the disc clutch members into contact with one another and at least one disc clutch member may rotate relative to an adjacent disc clutch member upon application of a torque to the reduction collar and the outer shaft greater than a preselected torque value.
US08206393B2 Surgical instrument
A surgical instrument for removing bone, cartilage, or similar tissue is described. The surgical instrument has a shaft that extends in a longitudinal direction and supports a cutting plate which is inclined perpendicular or relative to the longitudinal direction, and a cutting element which is movably mounted on the shaft and supports a blade at the distal end in which the blade is pointing in the direction of the cutting plate and being advanced to the cutting plate in order to cut tissue.
US08206385B2 Catheter assembly with front-loaded tip and multi-contact connector
The invention is directed to a catheter suitable for medical procedures such as cardiac ablation. The catheter includes a front-loaded catheter tip with an electrically active element. The catheter can include an elongate catheter shaft assembly having an inner shaft member with a distal end and a proximal end, and an outer shaft member with a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen between the distal end and the proximal end. The inner shaft member can be inserted into the lumen of the outer shaft member along a longitudinal direction. The inner shaft member can include, at the distal end, a catheter tip member having a lateral dimension that is larger than a lateral dimension of the lumen of the outer shaft member. The catheter tip member includes at least one electrically active element, and the proximal end of the inner shaft member has at least one electrode disposed on the external surface of the shaft member, such that when inserted into a handle, the electrode electrically contacts an electrical connector element.
US08206383B2 Radio frequency ablation servo catheter and method
A system that interfaces with a workstation endocardial mapping system allows for the rapid and successful ablation of cardiac tissue. The system allows a physician to see a representation of the physical location of a catheter in a representation of an anatomic model of the patient's heart. The workstation is the primary interface with the physician. A servo catheter having pull wires and pull rings for guidance and a servo catheter control system are interfaced with the workstation. Servo catheter control software may run on the workstation. The servo catheter is coupled to an RF generator. The physician locates a site for ablation therapy and confirms the location of the catheter. Once the catheter is located at the desired ablation site, the physician activates the RF generator to deliver the therapy.
US08206382B2 Surgical apparatus with sensor for obtaining states of surgical instrument information
A surgical apparatus has a surgical instrument to treat a diseased part of a patient. An energy supply unit supplies energy for driving the surgical instrument. A sensor obtains information about states of the surgical instrument. An energy change detector detects whether magnitude of energy supplied to the surgical instrument is changed or not. A control unit controls driving of the sensor, based on a result of detection by the energy change detector.
US08206380B2 Method and apparatus for measuring catheter contact force during a medical procedure
A method for measuring the contact force exerted on tissue by a probe for heating the tissue and containing an antenna which is connected to a radiometer whose output reading indicates the temperature at depth of the tissue contacted by the probe comprises displaying the output reading of the radiometer, applying sufficient power to the probe to heat the tissue to a selected first temperature that is not lethal to the tissue, moving the probe into contact with the tissue, observing the increase in the displayed temperature reading that occurs when the probe contacts the tissue, and advancing the probe toward the tissue until the displayed temperature reading reaches a value corresponding to a selected tissue contact force. After the probe position in the tissue has stabilized, the applied power to the probe may be increased to heat the tissue to a selected second temperature that is lethal to tissue for a sufficient time to ablate the tissue followed by lowering the tissue heating to a sub-lethal temperature. Apparatus for practicing the method is also disclosed.
US08206378B1 Estimating the volume of fluid in therapeutic fluid delivery device reservoir
A number of parameters related to the operation of a fluid delivery device are determined based on pressures within the device sensed using multiple pressure sensors. In one example, the volume of therapeutic fluid within a reservoir of a fluid delivery device is estimated based on a measured pressure differential. In another example, the rate at which a therapeutic fluid is added to or removed from the reservoir is estimated based on the measured pressure differential.
US08206377B2 Torque limiter for an OCT catheter
An apparatus comprising a torque wire connected to an imaging probe; and a torque limiter defining a bore, a first end of the torque limiter being in mechanical communication with a motor, a second end of the torque limiter being in mechanical communication with the torque wire, the torque wire being disposed through the bore of the torque limiter. The torque limiter comprises a member defining at least one cutout which causes the torque limiter to break when rotational force on the torque wire exceeds a predetermined amount, thereby decoupling the motor from the torque wire.
US08206369B2 Stimulation method for the sphenopalatine ganglia, sphenopalatine nerve, or vidian nerve for treatment of medical conditions
A method is provided for surgically implanting a first electrode and a second electrode on or proximate to at least one of the sphenopalatine ganglia, the sphenopalatine nerves, or the vidian nerves located on different sides of a patient's face. One step of the method includes inserting the first electrode into a coronoid notch located on one side of the patient's face. A second electrode is inserted into a coronoid notch located on the other side of the patient's face. The first and second electrodes are then advanced on or proximate to first and second locations on different sides of the patient's face, respectively. Each of the first and second locations includes at least one of the sphenopalatine ganglia, the sphenopalatine nerves, or the vidian nerves.
US08206364B2 Collecting bag having improved closure and method of manufacturing such a collecting bag
The collecting bag is intended for human body wastes and has a bag member (1) and a discharge portion (8) including a discharge opening (9). The bag member (1) and the discharge portion (8) are formed by a first and a second film blank (2, 3). A first plate member (21) is positioned on the first film blank (2) and a second plate member (22) is positioned on an extension (3e) of the second film blank (3) such that the plate members have a distance (d) between them. Two strap members (23, 24) are positioned between the first and the second plate member (21, 22).
US08206357B2 Articulating surgical portal apparatus with spring
A surgical portal apparatus is provided which includes a housing and a portal member. The portal member is connected to the housing which extends therefrom. The portal member has a longitudinal axis which includes a longitudinal passageway for permitting a surgical object to pass therethrough. A seal mount is mounted to the housing and has an internal seal adapted to establish a substantial sealed relation with the surgical object, the seal mount adapted to articulate relative to the housing between a first position relative to the housing and at least one second position relative to the housing, the seal mount being normally biased toward the first position.
US08206354B2 Method for inserting a catheter
A method for inserting a multiple catheter assembly into a patient. The assembly includes a first catheter which includes a first distal end region, a first outer surface defining a first lumen, and a first transition region transitioning cross sections of the first outer surface and the first lumen. A second catheter includes a second distal end region, a second outer surface defining a second lumen, and a second transition region transitioning cross sections of the second outer surface and the second lumen. The outer surfaces of the first and second catheters are releasably joined by a splittable bond for allowing first and second distal tips of the assembly to be at least partially longitudinally split from each other. The method includes steps of separating the first and second distal end regions, and inserting the first and second distal tips through an incision and into an area to be catheterized.
US08206352B2 Flow controllers
An apparatus for selecting a flow rate of a fluid includes an axle including an elongated cylindrical member having flow paths, each flow path being defined by a corresponding set of radial holes, each set of radial holes comprising at least one radial hole that extends substantially between an outer surface of the axle and an interior cavity of the axle, and a barrel including an elongated cylindrical member within which the axle is disposed, the barrel having input ports and an output port, the barrel being configured to enable the axle to rotate about an axis of rotation that extends along a length of the axle, wherein a flow rate of a fluid is selected by rotating the axle to a position so that a set of radial holes is in alignment with one or more ports of the barrel.
US08206347B2 Feeding device including balloon tip and method of manufacture
A feeding tube device for delivering a substance into a stomach of a patient. The feeding tube may include an overlapping segment integrally formed with and extending from the distal end of the feeding tube, and an inflation lumen defined within the feeding tube. The overlapping segment may surround at least a portion of the distal end of the feeding tube to form a balloon structure in communication with the inflation lumen.
US08206345B2 Fluid control system for a medical device
The present invention provides a medical device having an elongate body with both a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the elongate body defines an intake lumen and an exhaust lumen. The medical device also has a first pliable element defining a cooling chamber disposed at a point along the elongate body, with the cooling chamber being in fluid communication with the intake lumen and the exhaust lumen. A second pliable element is provided which at least partially encloses the first pliable element, thereby defining a junction between the first and second pliable element. Moreover, a check valve is included which is in fluid communication with the junction between the first pliable element and second pliable element, the valve further being in fluid communication with the exhaust lumen. In addition, the medical device may include sensors or other monitoring means in fluid communication with the junction and the cooling chamber.
US08206343B2 Reinforced catheter with articulated distal tip
A reinforced medical catheter (10) includes an elongated tubular outer wall reinforced by an internal helical coil spring (36). Successive loops of the coil spring adjoining the distal end are longitudinally separated, and a working lumen extends longitudinally through the catheter. A longitudinally extending reinforcing cable is captured in the tubular outer wall against the exterior of the coil spring. A steering cable operably interconnected with the distal end of the coil spring extends proximally from the distal end of the coil spring freely through the working lumen to the proximal end of the catheter. The reinforcing cable and the steering cable may constitute a continuous elongated filament. Withdrawing the steering cable proximally through the working lumen causes the distal tip of the catheter to be deflected laterally.
US08206342B2 Fluid management system
A fluid management system with a detection circuit for detecting whether an attached surgical device is operational. The fluid management system changes at least one operation mode when the surgical device is detected as being operational. The fluid management system may include inflow, outflow, or inflow/outflow capabilities, and monitors at least one signal characteristic of an AC power signal provided to the surgical device.
US08206336B2 Methods for reducing pain using a transdermal local anesthetic patch with injection port in combination with an electromotive force
Described herein are transdermal delivery devices composed of at least one resealable injection port and at least one local anesthetic reservoir. The device effectively delivers anesthetic to the skin of the subject prior to puncturing the skin by syringes, needle sticks, or other instruments intended to be inserted into the skin. In addition, the transdermal delivery device may include a single use patch that does not include a local anesthetic refill port. The devices are used in combination with an electromotive force in order to enhance pain reduction when a subject is injected with a needle. Devices for imparting an electromotive force to a subject are also described herein.
US08206335B2 Apparatus and methods for delivering fluid and material to a subject
The present invention provides fluid and material delivery methods and devices for practicing the methods. The invention provides a method of delivering cellular material comprising injecting the cellular material into a subject such that the injected cells retain their inherent morphologic characteristics upon injection. The method comprises the steps of aspirating the cellular material into a fluid delivery device which incorporates a syringe arrangement. The cellular material is aspirated into the main body of the syringe until the desired amount of a material has filled the syringe body. The needle of the fluid delivery device is then inserted into the skin of a subject at an angle about parallel to the skin until a desired depth has been reached. The cellular material is then injected in the subject until the desired volume of material has been injected. The needle of the device is then rotated approximately 45 to 90 degrees and the needle is removed from the injection site.
US08206325B1 Ambulatory system for measuring and monitoring physical activity and risk of falling and for automatic fall detection
The present invention relates to a light-weight, small and portable ambulatory sensor for measuring and monitoring a person's physical activity. Based on these measurements and computations, the invented system quantifies the subject's physical activity, quantifies the subject's gait, determines his or her risk of falling, and automatically detects falls. The invention combines the features of portability, high autonomy, and real-time computational capacity. High autonomy is achieved by using only accelerometers, which have low power consumption rates as compared with gyroscope-based systems. Accelerometer measurements, however, contain significant amounts of noise, which must be removed before further analysis. The invention therefore uses novel time-frequency filters to denoise the measurements, and in conjunction with biomechanical models of human movement, perform the requisite computations, which may also be done in real time.
US08206324B2 Method for monitoring living body activities, and optical fiber type flat shaped body sensor, garment styled optical fiber type flat shaped body sensor and human body fitted optical fiber type flat shaped body sensor used for the same
A living body monitoring activity system detects major activities, or feeble living body activities. In a method for monitoring existence of human movements or living body activities in living environments (e.g., sleeping activities involving a bed, a Futon-mat, a pad, or a Tatami-mat), an optical fiber type flat shaped body sensor including an optical fiber affixed or fitted to a flat shaped body is used, and light is emitted into the optical fiber from a light source, and changes of polarized wave conditions of light propagating in the optical fiber are brought about by changes in form of the optical fiber type flat shaped body sensor caused by human movements or living body activities and are detected by a measuring apparatus for polarized wave fluctuations so human activities or movements are discriminated based on the detected value of the polarized wave fluctuations.
US08206323B2 Method and apparatus to detect ambulation
Low frequency harmonics detected by an accelerometer in a wrist-mounted device are used to infer ambulation. The fundamental rhythm or pitch is extracted from gathered accelerometer data and the determined pitch and associated properties are used to infer whether a subject is walking or not walking.
US08206321B2 Guide wire loading method and apparatus
A device for loading a guide wire into the open end of a tubular instrument such as a catheter. The device can be a block of material having a groove in its surface. The ends of the guide wire and the tubular instrument are placed into the groove and moved toward each other. When the ends meet, the groove guides the guide wire into the open end of the tubular instrument. The groove, or at least a portion of the groove, can have a cross-sectional contour that closely matches the outside radius of the tubular instrument. The groove can have one portion with a shallower depth than the other portion, with the guide wire run in the shallower portion and the tubular instrument in the deeper portion. The guide wire and the tubular instrument can be angled above the device, with just their ends moving along the groove.
US08206318B2 Blood test apparatus
It is intended to provide a means of easily removing a portion of blood bleeding from pierced skin, which has not been taken into a blood sensor but remained on the skin, in a blood test with the use of a blood test apparatus. By using this means, it becomes unnecessary in the blood test to separately prepare a paper sheet, etc. for wiping off. More specifically speaking, a blood test apparatus wherein a blood sensor is provided within a blood sensor unit detachable to the blood test apparatus body and the blood sensor unit has a part to be in contact with the skin in the test and an absorption means. It is favorable that the part to be in contact with the skin in the test serves as the absorption means.
US08206317B2 Tissue penetration device
A lancet belt has a first belt tape with a longitudinal axis and an adhesion material disposed on an adhesion side of the tape. A second belt tape has a longitudinal axis disposed on the adhesion side of the first tape with the longitudinal axes of the first belt tape and the second belt tape being substantially parallel. A plurality of lancets are disposed between the first belt tape and the second belt tape. Longitudinal axes of the lancets are substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axes of the first and second belt tapes.
US08206316B2 Tetherless biopsy device with reusable portion
A biopsy device comprises a body, a needle, and a cutter actuation mechanism. The needle extends distally from the body. The cutter actuation mechanism rotates and translates the cutter relative to the body and relative to the needle. The cutter has an overmold presenting a lead screw and a hex portion. The cutter actuation mechanism comprises a first gear disposed about the hex portion of the overmold and a second gear engaged with the lead screw of the overmold by a nut that is integral with the second gear. The cutter actuation mechanism is operable to simultaneously rotate the first gear relative to the body at a first rotational speed and the second gear relative to the body at a second rotational speed. With the lead screw and the nut rotating at different rotational speeds, the lead screw rotates relative to the nut at a third rotational speed.
US08206312B2 Multi-channel stimulation threshold detection algorithm for use in neurophysiology monitoring
The present invention relates generally to an algorithm aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to an algorithm capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system.
US08206304B1 Doppler transceiver and probe for use in minimally invasive procedures
A system is disclosed for the detection of blood flow. The system provides, a portable transceiver unit having a signal generator, a signal comparator, and an audio output whereby a user receives an audio signal indicating differences in Doppler signal, and a Doppler probe coupled to the portable transceiver. The Doppler probe including a piezoelectric crystal disposed at a first end of the Doppler probe; at least one wire transmitting signals between the transceiver unit to the piezoelectric crystal; a rigid or flexible sheath disposed around at least part of the at least one wire and the piezoelectric crystal; and a transceiver unit coupler disposed at a second end of the Doppler probe. The system may also have a quantitative blood flow meter or signal strength meter.
US08206303B2 Apparatus and method for simulating arterial blood flow under various pressure conditions
An apparatus and method for simulating human ophthalmic artery for testing of ultrasound devices is disclosed, whereby two chambers are provided and are capable of being independently pressurized, one representing the intra-cranial space and the other representing extra-cranial space, and whereby a tube running through both chambers is provided, simulating the course of the ophthalmic artery and capable of being pressurized to stimulate arterial pressure. The apparatus is operated by pressuring both chambers, and pumping a blood-imitating fluid through the vessel in a pulsatile manner.
US08206300B2 Ablation device with articulated imaging transducer
A system for imaging and treating tissue comprises a probe having a deflectable distal tip for carrying an imaging array and a delivery needle for advancement within a field of view of the imaging array. Optionally, the needle will carry a plurality of tines which may be selectively radially deployed from the needle. The imaging array will preferably be provided in a separate, removable component.
US08206299B2 Image guided high intensity focused ultrasound treatment of nerves
A method for using high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to treat neurological structures to achieve a desired therapeutic effect. Depending on the dosage of HIFU applied, it can have a reversible or irreversible effect on neural structures. For example, a relatively high dose of HIFU can be used to permanently block nerve function, to provide a non-invasive alternative to severing a nerve to treat severe spasticity. Relatively lower doses of HIFU can be used to reversibly block nerve function, to alleviate pain, to achieve an anesthetic effect, or to achieve a cosmetic effect. Where sensory nerves are not necessary for voluntary function, but are involved in pain associated with tumors or bone cancer, HIFU can be used to non-invasively destroy such sensory nerves to alleviate pain without drugs. Preferably, ultrasound imaging synchronized to the HIFU therapy is used to provide real-time ultrasound image guided HIFU therapy of neural structures.
US08206298B2 Ultrasonographic elasticity imaging device
An ultrasonographic device includes an ultrasonic wave transmitter/receiver section which transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a test subject through a probe, a phasing addition circuit which controls the phase of the received ultrasonic wave and generates RF signal frame data, an RF signal frame data selection section which makes variable the frame interval of the RF signal frame data to be outputted, and an elastic image generating section which sets the optimum imaging range for each elastic frame data generated based on the RF signal frame data and generates elastic image.
US08206297B2 System and methods for processing analyte sensor data
Systems and methods for processing sensor analyte data, including initiating calibration, updating calibration, evaluating clinical acceptability of reference and sensor analyte data, and evaluating the quality of sensor calibration. During initial calibration, the analyte sensor data is evaluated over a period of time to determine stability of the sensor. The sensor may be calibrated using a calibration set of one or more matched sensor and reference analyte data pairs. The calibration may be updated after evaluating the calibration set for best calibration based on inclusion criteria with newly received reference analyte data. Fail-safe mechanisms are provided based on clinical acceptability of reference and analyte data and quality of sensor calibration. Algorithms provide for optimized prospective and retrospective analysis of estimated blood analyte data from an analyte sensor.
US08206295B2 Suction-based tissue manipulator
A surgical assembly including a flexible shell that defines a flexible sheet-like structure with a major top wall opposite a major bottom wall. The top wall is impermeable to air flow therethrough and has a first set of holes that allow for air flow therethrough. The bottom wall is impermeable to air flow therethrough and has a second set of holes that allow for air flow therethrough. A first fluid path supplies a source of suction to the first set of holes in a manner that is independent to suction supplied the second set of holes. A second fluid path supplies a source of suction to the second set of holes in a manner that is independent to suction supplied to the first set of holes. The supply of suction to the first set of holes is used to engage and hold tissue adjacent the top wall by suction forces applied through the first set of holes. The supply of suction to the second set of holes is used to engage and hold tissue adjacent the bottom wall by suction forces applied through the second set of holes. The tissue that is engaged adjacent the top wall is sealably disposed about the first set of holes, and tissue that is engaged adjacent the bottom wall is sealably disposed about the second set of holes.
US08206293B2 Retractor
The retractor system for use in spinal surgery and other types of surgical procedures that is a simple and efficient solution for minimally invasive access to thoracolumbar spine is disclosed. The fully customizable design allows the surgeon to independently angle the retractor blades and expand the retractor in both cephalad-caudal and medial-lateral directions. With an offering of a range of blade lengths, access can be tailored to the patient's anatomy. Auxiliary instruments such as the retractor inserter, universal hex driver and blade removal instrument allow quick and controlled access to the surgical site. The retractor system provides versatility and control ensuring minimal tissue trauma.
US08206291B2 Portal device
A surgical portal device includes a body portion defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen configured to allow a surgical instrument to pass therethrough. At least one securing member is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the body portion and is longitudinally translatable with respect to the body portion between a first, non-actuated position and a second, actuated position. The one securing mechanism has a fixation segment configured to grasp tissue when the one securing member is in the second, actuated position to facilitate fixation of the body portion within the tissue. The body portion may include a channel. The one securing member may be disposed at least partially within the channel and is longitudinally translatable with respect to the channel.
US08206288B2 Endoscope with resistance heater
A medical endoscope and insertion portion for a medical endoscope having a fiber tube that encloses an image guide and is surrounded by optical fibers, the distal opening of said fiber tube being sealed by a window, which is heated by an electric resistance heater located close by, wherein the heater is designed as heating foil arranged on the outer surface of the fiber tube.
US08206284B2 Integrated endoscope and accessory treatment device
An integrated endoscope and accessory treatment device is provided. The device employs a medical treatment device at its distal end that is combined with the endoscope as a complete system. The treatment device is controlled by integrated elements at the proximal end of the endoscope. The treatment devices may include tissue apposition devices, tissue cutting devices, forceps and others.
US08206283B2 Guidewire and catheter locking device and method
Locking device that is mounted on an endoscope or the like for selectively securing the position of a guide wire and/or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like. The locking device preferably includes a side wall with an opening therein for receiving the proximal end of a guide wire or catheter. The opening is preferably J-shaped or boot shaped, and has an entry end and a locking end. Once a guide wire or catheter is in a desired position within a body cavity, the portion of the guide wire or catheter that extends outside of the endoscope or the like may be moved into the opening. More particularly, a portion of the guide wire or catheter may be inserted by an operator through the entry end of the opening and into the locking end, wherein the locking end frictionally secures the position of the guide wire or catheter relative to the endoscope or the like.
US08206278B2 Wrap for a heart assist device
A heart assist device in which an inflatable balloon or chamber is held against an outside surface of a curved arterial vessel by a wrap (20) formed from a flexible sheet-like material. The wrap (20) having a first end portion (22), a second end portion (30) and an intermediate portion (26) connecting together the first and second end portions (22, 30). The intermediate portion (26) comprising at least three separate elongate sections (26a-c) arranged in side by side array each connected at each end to a respective one of the end portions (22, 30) of the wrap (20). The improvement in that the laterally outer ones (26a,b) of the elongate sections are longer than the central one (26c) of them. As a result, if the wrap (20) was laid on a planar surface, the central (26c) one of the elongate sections would lie substantially in that plane and the laterally outer ones (26a,b) of the elongate sections would, intermediate their ends, project above that plane.
US08206272B2 Multi-function exercise machine with pedaling capability and swivelable seatback
An exercise machine suitable for exercising a person's muscles contains a frame (100), a seat (102) situated over the frame, a seatback (104), a connection mechanism (106) for flexibly and adjustably connecting the seatback to the frame or/and the seat, and a pedaling mechanism (112) connectable to the frame. The pedaling mechanism has a pair of movable pedals (140) that revolve generally around a pedaling axis. The seatback is capable of swiveling.
US08206271B2 Cyclical skating motion exercise machine
A cyclical skating motion exercise machine has a base frame assembly. A first pedal arm mounted on a first pedal axle, wherein the first pedal axle is substantially vertical. A first link assembly mounted to the first pedal arm at a first pedal joint. The first pedal joint provides motion between the first link assembly and the first pedal arm. A first pedal mounted to the first pedal arm for supporting a user's foot. A second pedal arm is mounted on a second pedal axle, wherein the second pedal axle is substantially vertical. A crank assembly has a first link assembly is mounted to the a crank assembly, and the crank assembly has rotational inertia is substantially orthogonally to the first pedal axle.
US08206270B2 Apparatus and method for temporary mounting of a hangboard
According to one embodiment a removable assembly provides for mounting of a hangboard including a first unit and at least a first bracket for connecting the hangboard to the first unit. The first unit may include a first member configured to be placed over a door opening on a first side of a wall and a second member which can be positioned across the opening and against a second side of the wall. A third member is configured for attachment to the second member such that when the first member is placed over the opening and the second member is positioned against the second side of the wall, at least a portion of the third member is positioned above the second member. A related method provides a removable assembly for mounting of a hangboard. Numerous other embodiments are disclosed.
US08206267B2 Virtual ankle and balance trainer system
A rehabilitation system that combines robotics and interactive gaming to facilitate performance of task-specific, repetitive exercise to enable individuals undergoing rehabilitation to improve the performance of coordinated movements of the ankle, and to practice balance activities, is disclosed. More specifically, the rehabilitation system includes at least one two degree-of-freedom robotic, haptic interface for a mammalian foot and interactive gaming hardware that is coupled to a controller, to provide a virtual reality-like environment.
US08206266B2 Sensor, control and virtual reality system for a trampoline
A trampoline exercise system that is designed to show an avatar of a user, which is jumping on a trampoline. The exercise system includes a computer module, a trampoline configured to provide a platform for a user to perform exercises thereon, and a sensor module designed to sense movements of a user performed on the trampoline. The sensor module provides information that is received by the computer module that controls the display of a users' avatar on a video monitor in response to the users' motion on the trampoline. Several types of sensor may be used to sense the movement of the user, including body mounted sensors, trampoline mounted sensors, and remote viewing sensors.
US08206265B2 Control system for dual clutch transmission
The present invention provides a control system for a dual clutch automatic transmission having a torque converter. The transmission provides seven forward speeds or gear ratios and reverse. The control system includes a hydraulic pump, a pressure regulator assembly and control valves that provide and release pressurized hydraulic fluid to the torque converter, a pair of input clutches and eight synchronizer clutches. A first pair of control valves are high flow rate valves which are capable of rapidly engaging and disengaging the input clutches. A second pair of high flow rate valves, control valves and spool valves provide a branching control circuit which controls engagement and disengagement of the synchronizer clutches. A control valve linked to the shift lever blocks hydraulic fluid flow to the first pair of high flow rate valves to inhibit input clutch activation when the shift lever is in Park or Neutral.
US08206261B2 Method of transmitting the power of a hybrid vehicle between a heat engine shaft and a wheel axle shaft of the vehicle
The invention relates to a method of transmitting power between a shaft of a heat engine and a wheel axle shaft of a hybrid vehicle. The inventive method involves the use of: a power transmission device comprising an electric machine which is connected to (i) the heat engine by means of a clutch and (ii) a wheel axle shaft; and a starting system which is mechanically independent of the electric machine and which is connected to the heat engine. According to the invention, the heat engine is started by applying a torque to the shaft simultaneously using the starting system and the clutch.
US08206257B2 Multi-speed transmission
A multi-speed transmission having four gearsets, eight shafts and six shifting elements. The sun gear of gearset (P2) couples, via shaft (5) and brake (05), the housing (G), and, via clutch (15) the drive shaft. The carriers of gearsets (P2, P3) communicate, via shaft (4) and brake (04), with housing (G), and the sun gear of gearset (P3) communicates, via shaft (8) and clutch (18), with the drive shaft. The ring gears of gearsets (P2, P3) communicate, via shaft (6), with the ring gear of gearset (P4) and the sun gear of gearset (P1). The ring gear of gearset (P4) and the sun gear of gearset (P1) are connected with one another. The sun gear of gearset (P4) communicates, via shaft (3) and brake (03), with housing (G). The carriers of gearsets (P1, P4) communicate, via shaft (7) and clutch (17), with the drive shaft and the output shaft couples the ring gear of gearset (P1).
US08206256B1 Simultaneous multiple rotation interface
A simultaneous multiple rotation interface where a series of discs rotate about an eccentric camshaft. Each disc is engaged with the other by a series bearings embedded within each disc. As the camshaft rotates, each disc alternatively engages an outer shell so as to rotate the shell in the same direction as the shaft, albeit at a reduced speed.
US08206252B2 Hybrid powertrain having a multi-speed transmission
A hybrid powertrain includes an internal combustion engine, at least one electric machine and a multi-speed transmission. The electric machine is connected to a shaft between the internal combustion engine and the multi-speed transmission. The transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing.
US08206250B1 Bat with circumferentially aligned and axially segmented barrel section
A bat having a handle portion, a transition portion attached to the handle portion, and a barrel portion attached to the transition portion. The area(s) adjacent to the central portion of the barrel have an increased performance with respect to the central portion of the barrel to effectively enlarge the sweet spot, or preferred hitting area. At least one tubular member of the barrel is circumferential aligned and axially spaced from another tubular member.
US08206248B2 Racket
A tennis racket includes a frame that includes a shaft and a looped frame portion, the shaft having a grip formed on one end side thereof, the frame portion being joined to the other end side of the shaft and forming a hitting face with a string being strung across and a plurality of insertion holes that provide communication between an inner peripheral side surface and an outer peripheral side surface of the frame portion and through which the string is inserted. Shock absorbing portions and hard portions are provided in an alternating fashion on at least a part of the outer peripheral side surface of the frame portion. Each shock absorbing portion is formed between insertion holes that are adjacent to each other. Each hard portion is formed between insertion holes that are adjacent to each other and is less elastically deformable than the shock absorbing portion.
US08206241B2 Golf club assembly and golf club with sole plate
A body member has a face plate and a first engaging member. A sole plate has a second engaging member, the first and second engaging members being interlocked with one another. A layer of resilient material is disposed between the first engaging member and the second engaging member.
US08206224B2 User created content and quests
A computer-implemented method of providing an environment for a crafting player to craft a role-playing content and/or quests in a computer game, the method including: obtaining tokens that represent in-game assets; placing the tokens to craft the role-playing content and/or quests; inviting other players to participate in the role-playing content and/or quests; running the role-playing content and/or quests; receiving at least one reward based on the rating entered by the other players; and saving a layout and composition of the crafted role-playing content and/or quests in a blueprint. Keywords include MMO, role-playing event, quests, and souvenirs.
US08206218B2 3D videogame system
A 3D videogame system capable of displaying a left-right sequences through a different, independent VGA or video channel, with a display device sharing a memory in an immerse manner. The system has a videogame engine controlling and validating the image perspectives, assigning textures, lighting, positions, movements and aspects associated with each object participating in the game; creates left and right backbuffers, creates images and presents the information in the frontbuffers. The system allows handling the information of data associated to the xyz coordinates of the object's image in real-time, increases the RAM for the left-right backbuffer, with the possibility to discriminate and take the corresponding backbuffer, whose information is sent to the frontbuffer or additional independent display device sharing a memory in an immerse manner.
US08206210B2 System and method for communicating game session information
According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a contract is established for a session comprising two or more plays of at least one gaming device. Information about the game play session, such as outcomes generated at the at least one gaming device, is communicated to a player device. The information is presented to a player via the player device.
US08206203B2 Method and conveyor assembly for unloading birds from a compartment for holding birds
The present invention relates to a method for unloading birds from a compartment for holding birds, wherein a first conveyor belt is provided above the birds and a second conveyor belt is provided underneath the birds, for moving the birds toward the exit of the compartment. The present invention further relates to a conveyor assembly for unloading birds from a compartment for holding birds, the device includes a first conveyor belt which is configured to be provided above the birds and a second conveyor belt which is configured to be provided underneath the birds, for moving the birds toward the exit of the compartment.
US08206201B2 Working system using brush tool
A method of producing a brush for carrying out surface roughing, polishing, lapping, and smoothing operations comprises a first molding operation of one or more mixes including one or more moldable synthetic materials so as to obtain a base portion (6; 160) and a plurality of bristle members (3; 130, 130a, 130b) projecting from a surface (6a; 160a) of the base portion (6; 160) and including at least one abrasive material. The invention also relates to a brush tool of synthetic material including one or more abrasive grain material in the bristle members (3; 130, 130a, 130b) thereof.
US08206200B2 Extension pole apparatus for sander
Extension pole apparatus includes an attachment component (20,100) having an elongate body (22,105) that is adapted to receive a tubular or rod like component so that the latter extends generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the body. A pair of plates (24,25;110a,110b) are mounted to and project laterally from the body. The plates extend generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the body for receiving between them an aligned element of a powered sanding apparatus, which aligned element is a hollow shaft or a rib of a motor unit of the apparatus. Means (29,155) is included by which the plates may be rigidly fastened to the aligned element. A tubular or rod like component is receivable into the elongate body, and means (23,165) is provided by which the tubular or rod like component may be fastened to the attachment component while it is received in the elongate body.
US08206199B2 Electric abrasive sharpener
An electric abrasive sharpener for sharpening edges having pairs of interlocking abrasive wheels formed with opposite abrasive helical threads. Each end of the threads respectively has lead-in section and lead-out section having chamfer edge portion to eliminate kickback. The abrasive wheels of the sharpener is driven by a single phase AC motor connected to a motor drive that steps down the rotational speed of the output shaft of the motor to rotate the abrasive wheels with increased torque.
US08206193B2 Accoustic buoy
A buoy provided preferably for ascending in the water from an initial submerged position. The buoy comprises a buoyancy element positioned at an upper portion of the buoy in the ascending direction. Further the buoy comprises a storing structure for an elongated member positioned below the buoyancy element in the ascending direction, wherein one end of the elongated member is connected to the buoy and the other end of the elongated member is connected to an object submerged in the water. The buoyancy element is provided to obtain a rotation of the buoy around its central axis thereby paying out the elongated member while the buoy is ascending essentially vertically in the water.
US08206191B2 Water jet propulsion watercraft
A water jet propulsion watercraft includes a pair of jet propulsion devices arranged right and left of a hull centerline. Each jet propulsion device includes a jetting unit arranged to jet water, a deflector supported on the hull and arranged to rotate to right and left, the deflector including a forward drive jet port and a reverse drive jet port. Each jet propulsion device includes a bucket arranged to change between a forward drive position and a reverse drive position. The bucket includes a reflecting surface arranged to reflect the water jetted from the forward drive jet port when the bucket is at the reverse drive position, and an auxiliary nozzle including an entrance opened to the reflecting surface and arranged to jet water introduced into the entrance along a hull right/left direction. The entrance of the auxiliary nozzle is spaced away from the forward drive jet port in the hull right/left direction and does not oppose the forward drive jet port in a state where the bucket is arranged at the reverse drive position and the deflector is arranged at the straight drive position.
US08206190B2 Amphibious fighting vehicle running on land and water surfaces
An amphibious fighting vehicle capable of moving on a water surface including a front planing tracked belt disposed on a front portion of the amphibious fighting vehicle, a rear driving tracked belt, side buoys disposed on lateral sides of the amphibious fighting vehicle, a rear buoy disposed on a rear end of the amphibious fighting vehicle, the buoys assisting in setting an immersion line of the amphibious fighting vehicle at a predetermined value, and a set of identical engines that propel the amphibious fighting vehicle at a speed sufficient for movement on the water surface and a land surface.
US08206189B2 Inner terminal
There is provided an inner terminal capable of providing enhanced reliability of connection in a circuit board. There is also provided an inner terminal capable of providing enhanced high-frequency characteristics by appropriately adjusting impedance. An expanded part (31) for carrier-disconnection is integrally formed with an interconnecting part (27) of an inner terminal (21). The expanded part (31) is formed to be expanded from opposite sides of a horizontal part (29). Also, the expanded part (31) is formed in a plate shape having the same thickness as the horizontal part (29) and also having the front and rear sides which are flush with the horizontal part (29). The expanded part (31) is formed such that edges of the expansion serve as parts at which the inner terminal is disconnected from the carrier when the terminal is produced.
US08206188B1 Connector terminal
A connector terminal curved from a strip-shaped metal plate has a soldering plate of which a substantial middle of one end edge extends upward to form a bracket plate, an arched connecting portion bent upward from the other end of the soldering plate and apart facing the bracket plate, and a flexible arm extending from a free end of the connecting portion towards the bracket plate and parallel to the soldering plate. Two opposite side edges of a top end of the bracket plate oppositely protrude to form a pair of blocking ears. A free end of the flexible arm is arched upward to form an inverted-V shaped contacting portion adjacent to the bracket plate. Two ends of a distal edge of the contacting portion further extend beyond the two opposite side edges of the bracket plate to form a pair of resisting tails respectively restrained under the blocking ears.
US08206187B2 Female terminal fitting
A tab (51) of a male terminal (50) is inserted into a main portion (11) of a female terminal (10). The tab (51) contacts a contact portion (16) of a resilient contact piece (15) to connect the female and male terminals (10, 50) electrically. A guiding portion (18) is formed on an inner surface of the main portion (11) for guiding the tab (51) inserted into the main portion (11) to a position where the tab (51) contacts the contact portion (16). The guiding portion (18) extends from a position before a contact position of the tab (51) with the contact portion (16) to the contact position while being inclined with respect to an inserting direction of the tab (51).
US08206186B2 Electrical connector assembly, test lead assembly therefor, and associated method
A test lead assembly is provided for an electrical connector assembly, such as a terminal board. The terminal board includes a generally planar member and a number of fasteners, such as terminal screws, which are structured to fasten and electrically connect electrical conductors to the generally planar member. The test lead assembly includes an extension member having first and second opposing ends, and an intermediate portion extending therebetween. The first end is fastened to the enlarged head of a corresponding one of the terminal screws. A connection element is disposed at or about the second end of the extension member. In one embodiment the connection element is a thumb screw that electrically connects a test element to the extension member. The test lead assembly enables the terminal board to be tested, without loosening or otherwise disturbing the electrical connections of the terminal board. An associated method is also disclosed.
US08206184B2 Connector assembly for vehicle charging
A connector assembly is provided with a support structure having an elongate shape and an inlet for receiving a charging cable. A fitting is disposed in mechanical interlocking engagement with a distal end of the support structure for interconnecting the support structure with a vehicle charging receptacle. The support structure and the fitting are configured for disconnecting from each other when the connector assembly is subjected to a lateral load above a predetermined threshold value.
US08206183B2 Universal connector assembly and method of manufacturing
An advanced modular plug connector assembly incorporating an insert assembly disposed in the rear portion of the connector housing. In one embodiment, the connector has a plurality of ports in multi-row configuration, and the insert assembly includes a substrate adapted to receive one or more electronic components such as choke coils, transformers, or other signal conditioning elements or magnetics. The substrate also interfaces with the conductors of two modular ports of the connector, and is removable from the housing such that an insert assembly of a different electronics or terminal configuration can be substituted therefor. In this fashion, the connector can be configured to a plurality of different standards (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet and 10/100). In yet another embodiment, the connector assembly comprises a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs) received within the housing. Methods for manufacturing the aforementioned embodiments are also disclosed.
US08206182B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector (100), comprising an insulative housing (1) defining a base portion (11) and a mating portion (12) extending from the front side of the base portion along a mating direction; a plurality of passageways (114) disposed in the base portion with an opening backwards and extending along the mating direction; a plurality of receiving spaces (121) disposed in the mating portion and communicating with the complementary passageways; a plurality of contacts (2) mounting to the insulative housing along the mating direction, and each contact including a flat base part (21) mounting to the base portion of the insulative housing, a connecting part (22) extending forwards from the base portion and received in the passageways, a mating part (23) extending from the connecting part and disposed in said receiving space, and a spacer part (24) located between the base part and the connecting part; wherein the spacer part covers the opening of the passageways.
US08206177B2 HDMI connector structure
An HDMI connector structure includes a base, a circuit board, a chassis and a metal casing. The base includes a containing space, a retaining wall formed at a front end of the containing space, and an opening formed on the retaining wall. The circuit board is installed in the containing space, and an end of the circuit board is passed through the opening and out of the retaining wall, and at least one surface of the circuit board has a plurality of conductive pins, and a transmission line segment is extended from an end of each conductive pin and electrically coupled to a conductive terminal The metal casing includes a hollow main body, and the base is installed in the empty main body, and a front end of the hollow main body is provided for exposing a port from an end of the circuit board.
US08206172B2 Plug lock structure
A plug lock structure that locks a power feeding plug to an inlet, which is fixed to a power feeding subject. The inlet includes a catch. The power feeding plug includes a hook, hooked to the catch, and an operation portion, which separates the hook from the catch. The plug lock structure includes a lock member pivoted in a direction in which the lock member forces the hook against the catch and a direction in which the lock member moves away from the catch together with the hook. A lock block is moved between a first position, at which the lock block permits pivoting of the lock member when the hook moves from the hooked state, and a second position, at which the lock block restricts pivoting of the lock member by contacting the lock member when the hook moves from the hooked state.
US08206171B2 Charging connector
A charging connector (10) has a fitting (13) connectable to a vehicle-side connector (50) and a main body (11) with a forward opening (11A) to accommodate the fitting (13) so that a front end of the fitting (13) projects forward from the opening (11A). A lever (14) including an arm (14C) extends from the interior of the main body (11) to the front end of the fitting (13) to hold the vehicle-side connector (50) and the fitting (13) in a connected state. A protective wall (11B) extends forward from the opening (11A) of the main body (11) and covers the arm (14C) between the fitting (13) and itself. A lock (31) is at a front end of the lever (14) and has a lock projection (14A) that projects toward the fitting (13) and a reinforcement (14B) the projects toward a side opposite to the fitting (13).
US08206167B2 Adapter set for fluorescent lamps converting to luminescent tubes having smaller diameters equipped with electronic ballast
An adapter set for fluorescent lamps with electronic ballast for converting to a fluorescent tube having a smaller diameter. The electronic ballast and the end cap adapter each on one axial front thereof comprise contact pins having dimensions of fluorescent tubes of larger diameters, and on the opposite axial front have contact sockets for receiving two contact pins of the fluorescent tube having a smaller diameter. Preferably, the electronic components of the ballast are located on at least two spatially separated partial circuit boards which may be connected to each other by a flexible contact strip. A jacket tube has at least one cable channel that extends axially relative thereto to house the wiring connecting the contact pins of the end cap adapter and the electric ballast.
US08206165B2 Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly is configured so that a plug can be connected to or disconnected from a receptacle easily and reliably. Levers (40A, 40C) of plug (30A, 30C) out of three plug (30A, 30B, 30C), the plug (30A, 30C) being connected to hoods (26A, 26C) on both end sides of a receptacle (20), each have a length such as to project to outward from the hoods (26A, 26C), and the levers (40A, 40C) are configured so as to be locked to a receptacle (21) on the outside of the hoods (26A, 26C).
US08206164B2 Securing device
A securing device for a plug unit configured to automatically establish a secured state when the plug unit is plugged in includes an engagement element configured to automatically trigger the secured state through an engagement when the plug unit is plugged in, the automatically established secured state corresponding to a first stable position of the securing device, and an actuatable releasing device configured to unplug the plug unit. The actuatable releasing device is configured to actuate so as to undo the secured state and move the securing device into a second stable position. An unplugging and plugging in of the plug unit enables the securing device to move out of the second stable position.
US08206163B2 USB connector and USB device
A USB connector for connecting with a USB female comprises a rotating shaft assembly which is capable of rotating, metal legs, a connecting line, and a substrate, and said rotating shaft assembly includes a rotating shaft, a rotating shaft sleeve and a rotating shaft support, the rotating shaft is disposed in the rotating shaft sleeve and is capable of rotating relative to the rotating shaft sleeve, the rotating shaft sleeve is located in a support hole of the rotating shaft support, and the rotating shaft assembly with the rotating shaft support is fixed on the surface of the substrate by the rotating shaft support. According to the USB connector and the USB device, the metal legs are formed on the surface of the substrate to ensure the connecting strength of the metal legs and reduce the thickness of the USB device.
US08206161B1 Electrical connector assembly
An electrical connector assembly includes a printed circuit board and an electrical connector. The printed circuit board has a circuit board and a soldering board. A plurality of soldering holes is opened on the soldering board. The electrical connector has an insulating housing. A plurality of signal terminals are assembled in the insulating housing and each signal terminal has a soldering tail projecting upward beyond the propping portion for being inserted into the soldering holes and then soldered with the soldering board. A main shell has a lower shell, a front shell for accommodating the insulating housing therein. An upper shell matches with the lower shell to define a receiving room for receiving the circuit board therein. The upper shell has an auxiliary plate covered on the soldering board and cooperating with the front shell to enclose the soldering board thereamong.
US08206155B2 Trigonometry teaching aid system
The present invention provides a teaching aid system (10) for assisting students in applying trigonometric classroom lessons in real life applications both in indoor and outdoor settings. The teaching aid system consists of a pivoting scope (16) and an asymmetrically weighing gravity dial (18) that are pivotally mounted to a pair of support members (12). A tape measure (42) and an arithmetic electronic calculator (46) are attached on the support members (12) to enable students compute trigonometric formulations and applications of the same, when utilizing the system for real life objects either in indoor or outdoor settings. For determining dimensions of viewed objects, the student determines the distance from the viewed object using the tape measure (42), and the angles between the top and bottom of the viewed object using the scope (16) and gravity dial (18). Then applying the proper trigonometric formulae from a booklet or other conventional trigonometric formulae sources, the student can determine the height, elevations or slopes of objects.
US08206154B2 Dentition score
Methods, systems, algorithms, and uses for dentition scores having clinical applicability for an individual patient are described herein. The scores increase as a condition worsens and decrease with treatment. The score can be used to communicate the status of a patient's dentitions to the patient, to an insurer, or to another health care professional.
US08206153B2 Method for selecting implant components
Methods of selecting or designing an implant to be used in a patient are provided. A CT scan of a patient's mouth is performed. A 3D CAD model of the patient's mouth is created utilizing data generated by the CT scan. Properties of the patient's mouth are determined based upon CT scan data and assigned to the 3D CAD model. A desired location for an implant is selected. A FEA simulation is performed on the 3D CAD model to choose an implant or to design an implant that optimizes a selected variable.
US08206151B2 Dental wedge
A dental wedge for use in the inter-proximal space between adjacent teeth. The wedge includes a taper section ending at a tip, and a body section extending to the tapering section at one end. The body section has an inverted V-shaped cross-section, flexing of the sides of the V-shape allowing the wedge to adapt to various contours of the inter-proximal space. The mid-portion of the body section is narrower than at least a portion of the wedge at either end of the mid-portion.
US08206150B2 Method for extinguishing a candle at timed intervals using a combustible material
A method for extinguishing a candle at timed intervals using a combustible material is disclosed. In one exemplary embodiment, the method includes: utilizing a combustible composition adapted for application to a wick segment; utilizing a combustible first wick segment; coupling a combustible second wick segment to the combustible first wick segment; placing the combustible second wick segment adjacent to the first wick segment; and configuring the combustible second wick segment to, as the combustible first wick segment, once ignited, burns down to the combustible second wick segment, interrupt and slowly self-extinguish the burning of the first wick segment. The candle wick is configured to be relit, post extinguishment, without having to physically remove a non-combustible barrier. A combustible composition also is disclosed. A candle further is disclosed.
US08206145B2 Injection molding apparatus having an edge-gated runnerless nozzle
A nozzle body defines an upstream channel. A downstream bracing portion has a lateral bore. A nozzle tip extends laterally through the lateral bore of the bracing portion and has a sealing surface for engaging a gate component that defines a mold gate. The runnerless nozzle further includes a securing component inserted into the bracing portion to hold the nozzle tip against the bracing portion. The bracing portion or the securing component defines a lateral channel in communication with the upstream channel for delivering molding material to the nozzle tip. The nozzle tip can be removed by removing the securing component.
US08206143B2 Modular articulating cement spacer
The present teachings provide a modular articulating cement spacer mold for forming a temporary implant comprising a mold first portion; a mold second portion; a hinge region connecting the mold first portion and mold second portion; and a self-securing device to removably secure and separate the mold first portion and the mold second portion. Other modular articulating cement spacer molds are also provided.
US08206142B2 Hydraulic locking mechanism for multiple extrusion heads of an extruder
A hydraulic locking mechanism for multiple extrusion heads of an extruder, has two Y-shaped clamping arms, six wedges, six pushing bars, six oil cylinder brackets, six oil cylinders, and six locking holes. A pair of locking holes is formed on both sides of an upper portion and a lower portion of the barrel and the extrusion head thereof, respectively. The wedge is disposed on inner wall of the locking hole, and a locking hole thereof has a sectional area gradually decreasing from the outside to the inside. The clamping arms are disposed on both sides of the barrel and the extrusion head via fastening devices. A through hole for the pushing bar is disposed on a branch of each of the clamping arm and corresponds to six locking holes. A piston rod of the oil cylinder is connected to a rear end of the pushing bar, the six oil cylinders and the six pushing bars are respectively fixed on six branches of the two clamping arms via six brackets of an oil cylinder. The pushing bar is capable of moving along the through hole for the pushing bar as being driven by the oil cylinder, and a front end thereof is inserted in the locking hole and penetrably disposed in the through hole for the pushing bar. A slant is formed on the outer side on a front end of the pushing bar.
US08206140B2 Revolving vane compressor
An exemplary revolving vane compressor includes a cylinder having a discharge port in and through the cylinder. A rotor housed within the cylinder is eccentrically mounted relative to the cylinder. A vane is mounted in a slot in the rotor. The vane is for sliding movement relative to the rotor. The vane is securely connected to the cylinder to force the cylinder to rotate with the rotor. A pressure shell surrounds the cylinder and the rotor. Each discharge port is for discharging fluid into an enclosed volume of the pressure shell. The cylinder is held within the enclosed volume.
US08206139B2 Rotary compressor and refrigeration cycle equipment
A rotary compressor, which contains a motor unit and compression mechanism in a sealed case, transmits the rotational power of the motor to the compression mechanism through a rotary shaft and crankshafts eccentrically provided in the rotary shaft, and compresses a refrigerant in the compression mechanism, wherein the rotary compressor is configured to have H/(φDa•E)=K, and K≦0.065, and the formula 0.35+0.07•K•H≦L/φDb≦0.45+0.07•K•H, assuming that the inside diameter of the cylinder forming the compression mechanism is φDa [mm], the cylinder height is H [mm], the crankshaft eccentricity is E [mm], the crankshaft diameter is φDb [mm], and the sliding lengths of the crankshaft and a roller fitted over the crank are set to L [mm].
US08206138B2 Scroll fluid machine with ball coupling rotation prevention mechanism
This invention provides a scroll type fluid machine which can simultaneously realize the stabilization of the behavior in the rotational direction of an orbiting scroll and the reduction in the manufacturing cost by the ease of holding a grease. In the scroll type fluid machine, three pairs of rotation prevention mechanisms are provided between a casing and an orbiting scroll. The rotation prevention mechanism is constituted of first and second ball coupling mechanisms having a function different from each other. The first ball coupling mechanism supports the thrust load of the orbiting scroll. Meanwhile, the second ball coupling mechanism supports the rotation force of the orbiting scroll.
US08206136B2 System of diaphragm and co-acting part
The invention relates to a system of bellows and co-acting part, including a co-acting part which comprises a stiff outer wall, and a bellows co-acting therewith which comprises a flexible wall of a predetermined shape and thickness, wherein the flexible wall of the bellows is movable along the stiff outer wall of the co-acting part, wherein the bellows includes at least two separately deformable flexible wall parts' which each co-act with a different part of the stiff outer wall of the co-acting part.
US08206135B2 Valve-type oil feeder
A valve-type oil feeder comprising a housing, a valving spindle, and a piston. The housing has a valve chamber and a piston chamber, the valve chamber has an oil inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet; the piston chamber has an oil intake chamber, an oil discharge chamber, and an oil outlet; the oil intake chamber communicates with the second outlet, and the oil discharge chamber communicates with the first outlet and the oil outlet respectively; the valving spindle is arranged in the valve chamber and movable between an original position at which the oil inlet is cut off from the second outlet while the first outlet communicates with the second outlet, and a working position at which the oil inlet communicates with the second outlet while the first outlet is cut off from the second outlet The present invention is applicable to various fluid and semi-fluid media, and applicable to various pressure and viscosity ranges. By controlling the operation of the valving spindle, lubricant can be supplied conveniently as necessary, and the delivery quantity of lubricant can be adjusted easily; moreover, the valve-type oil feeder is characterized in simple structure, wide application range, low production cost, and reliable operation.
US08206134B2 Combined power pack unit
A power pack unit includes a first hydraulic pump including a first pump enclosure accommodating a first pump cartridge. A second hydraulic pump includes a second pump enclosure accommodating a second pump cartridge. A hydraulic fluid reservoir is positioned between the first and second hydraulic pumps. A first end of the reservoir is secured to the first pump enclosure and a second end of the reservoir is secured to the second pump enclosure. The first and second hydraulic pumps and the reservoir can extend along a common axis. First and second motors can be connected to the first and second pumps. The entire structure can extend along a common axis.
US08206132B2 Slide valve actuation for overpressure safety
A compressor (20) has an unloading slide valve (100). The valve has a valve element (102) having a range between a first condition and a second condition, the second condition being unloaded relative to the first condition. A piston (124) is in a cylinder (128) and mechanically coupled to the valve element. A control valve (140) is coupled to a headspace (138) of the cylinder to selectively expose the headspace to a flu source (144), pressure of fluid in the headspace producing a force on the piston and valve element in a direction from the second condition toward the first condition. The compressor includes a pressure relief valve coupling (180) in the headspace to suction conditions to unload the compressor responsive to an overpressure.
US08206131B2 Fuel pump
A housing has a compression chamber and a first passage, through which the compression chamber communicates with an accumulation chamber. A discharge valve is provided in the first passage and configured to open to supply fuel from the compression chamber to the accumulation chamber in response to increase in pressure in the compression chamber. A second passage is configured to communicate the accumulation chamber with the compression chamber via the discharge valve. A valve element allows fuel flow from the accumulation chamber to the compression chamber. A biasing unit biases the valve element to seat the valve element on a valve seat of the second passage. The sidewall of the valve element and the inner wall defining the second passage therebetween define a throttle midway through the second passage for restricting fuel flow from the accumulation chamber to the compression chamber.
US08206129B2 Supercharged internal combustion engine including a pressurized fluid outlet
A supercharged internal combustion engine including a pressurized fluid outlet, the engine comprising a two-ended piston, with one end received in a combustion chamber, and another end received in a hydraulic chamber. The piston further including a portion intermediate the two ends and received within an air chamber, and the air chamber has an air outlet communicating with a combustion air inlet to the combustion chamber.
US08206127B2 Liquid pressure-feed device
A liquid pressure-feed device is provided wherein a working fluid discharge port can be connected to a liquid generation source side through an external pipe or can be connected to a liquid inlet port of a closed vessel without going through an external pipe. A closed vessel outer opening for opening a working fluid discharge port outwards of a closed vessel is provided and a communication passage for connecting the working fluid discharge port to a liquid inlet port is formed in the closed vessel. When connecting the working fluid discharge port to the liquid generation source side through an external pipe connected to the closed vessel outer opening, a ring member is used to provide closure between the working fluid discharge port and the liquid inlet port and provide communication between the working fluid discharge port and the closed vessel outer opening. Instead, when connecting the working fluid discharge port to the liquid inlet port, a plug member is used to close the closed vessel outer opening.
US08206126B2 Fuel pump with inner channel priming
A pump unit (12) includes a pump housing (14), a pump cover (16), and an impeller (18) between the pump housing and pump cover. The pump housing and pump cover define a first channel (32) and a second channel (34) each having an inlet and an outlet. The impeller has first vanes (36) cooperating with the first channel and second vanes (38) cooperating with the second channel. The outlet of the second channel is constructed and arranged to provide fuel to an engine upon rotation of the impeller. A jet pump (38) is fluidly connected with the outlet of the first channel such that as the impeller rotates, the jet pump causes fuel to be drawn into the reservoir (37). Connecting structure (44, 44′) fluidly connects the first and second channels such that upon rotation of the impeller, fuel in the second channel flows into the first channel to prime the first channel.
US08206124B1 Oil-gas vapor collection, storage, and recovery system using a variable volume gas bag connected with a control switch
An oil-gas vapor collection, storage, and recovery system ensures that no air or oxygen leakage into the production tank occurs when gauging and/or emptying a tank. The system provides a constant reservoir-type storage system by utilizing a variable volume gas bag, expanding with a surge of gas from the separator and with minimal water column pressure from the plunger lift system, thereby containing the gas surge, but contracting with gas dissipation thus minimizing the compressor cycling, while accommodating rapid liquid and vapor influxes into the tank thus maintaining constant tank pressure. With expansion, the bag actuates a switch which activates a compressor, which, in turn, compresses the contained gas into the pipeline. Upon bag collapse, a switch is activated to turn off the compressor. Thus, the system provides constant storage tank pressure because the gas bag accommodates and controls variable gas volume.
US08206123B2 Automated yield monitoring and control
A system is adapted to automatically maintain a desired yield level for a slurry flow. Measurements of the electrical conductivity of a slurry are taken and corrected for the effects of temperature and pressure. The corrected conductivity measurements are used to arrive at a value for system yield. The system automatically determines if the yield is too high or too low relative to a desired level, and controls the rate at which accelerator is added to the slurry in order to increase or decrease yield.
US08206119B2 Turbine coverplate systems
In one embodiment, a coverplate may be configured to axially overlay a plurality of blade retaining slots within a wheel post of a rotor wheel. The coverplate may include a tab for radially securing the coverplate within a complementary groove of the rotor wheel and an aperture configured to align with a corresponding aperture of the turbine wheel to receive a fastener for axially securing the coverplate to the rotor wheel.
US08206117B2 Turbine components and methods of manufacturing turbine components
Turbine components are provided. In an embodiment, by way of example, a hub and a ring are included. The hub comprises a first material. The ring is bonded to the hub. The ring comprises a plurality of arc segments forming a ring, each arc segment comprising a second material comprising a single crystal superalloy material having a predetermined primary orientation and a predetermined secondary orientation, each predetermined primary orientation of each arc segment being substantially equal, and each predetermined secondary orientation of each arc segment being substantially equal, each arc segment adjacent another arc segment, and the adjacent arc segments having a predetermined crystallographic mismatch therebetween. Methods of manufacturing are also provided.
US08206116B2 Method for loading and locking tangential rotor blades and blade design
An array of blades for use in an engine includes a disk having a slot, a pair of rails adjacent the slot and extending above an upper surface of the slot, and a pair of shoulders located outside the rails. A plurality of radially loaded blades are inserted into the slot. A plurality of snaps overhang the rails and rest on the shoulders. Each of the blades is positioned between a pair of snap seals and overlaps a side edge of each one of the pair of snap seals.
US08206115B2 Scalloped surface turbine stage with trailing edge ridges
An engine stage includes a row of airfoils joined to corresponding platforms to define flow passages therebetween. Each airfoil includes opposite pressure and suction sides and extends in chord between opposite leading and trailing edges. Extending from a surface of the platforms is a trailing edge ridge structure which adjoins the pressure sides, suction sides, and trailing edges of the airfoils with their respective platforms.
US08206111B2 Adjustable, self-aligning rotor locking device for an aerogenerator
Wind turbine having a rotor, a nacelle frame (13) housing with electrical generation means coupled to the rotor hub (11), braking means and control means of the drive train rotational position, the nacelle frame (13) and the rotor hub (11) having an arrangement for preventing the rotor hub (11) rotation when certain maintenance or assembly activities should be carried out, the arrangement including at least one sliding pin (21) in the nacelle (13), first actuating means (31) for pushing/pulling it axially into/from at least one corresponding hole (23) in the rotor hub (11) and means for allowing vertical and lateral adjustment displacements of the sliding pin (21) so that it can remain concentrically aligned with the hole (23) when it is inserted into it.
US08206109B2 Turbine blade assemblies with thermal insulation
A turbine blade assembly for a gas turbine includes a spar with raised ribs, a spacer with a plurality of protrusions mounted around the spar, and an outer shell mounted around the spacer. The protruding portions on the spacer surround the raised ribs on the spar. The protruding portions of the spacer act to space the interior surfaces of the outer shell away from the spar to provide a thermal insulation layer of cooling air.
US08206106B2 Oscillating windmill
In a preferred embodiment, pairs of oscillating wind paddles are mounted in the lee of a wind turbine of the lift type. An oscillating wind paddle assembly has an upper pair of paddles moving between a first position at substantially right angles to the direction of wind and a second position substantially parallel to the direction of the wind and mounted on arms extending to either side of a shaft to which they are connected through a one-way clutch, and a lower pair of paddles moving between a position at substantially right angles to the direction of the wind and a second position substantially parallel to the direction of the wind and mounted on arms extending to either side of the same shaft to which they are connected through a one-way clutch, one of the paddles being a drive paddle and the other a recovery paddle, the two pairs of paddles being out of phase with respect to one another.
US08206103B2 Fan assembly
A fan assembly includes a fan, two mounting members fixed to two opposite sides of the fan, and a fixing plate. Each of the mounting members includes an inner wall facing the fan and an outer wall away from the fan. The outer wall of each of the mounting members defines a recess and forms a block adjacent to a bottom of the mounting member. The blocks of the mounting members are adjacent to a first end of the fan. The fixing plate includes two engaging members respectively engaging in the recesses of the mounting members, a stop plate engaging with a second end opposite to the first end of the fan, and two resilient tabs respectively resisting against the blocks of the mounting members to sandwich the fan between the resilient tabs and the stop plate.
US08206101B2 Windward cooled turbine nozzle
A turbine nozzle includes a hollow vane mounted between inner and outer bands. The inner band includes a mounting flange between forward and aft lips. An aft pocket is found in the inner band between the flange and aft lip. And, an impingement bore extends through the flange into the windward half of the pocket and is directed aft toward the opposite leeward half of the pocket for co-rotation with purge flow during operation.
US08206096B2 Composite turbine nozzle
A composite nozzle segment includes one or more airfoils extending radially between arcuate radially outer and inner band segments having band plies curved about a centerline axis, an outer chordal seal line on an outer aft flange of the outer band segment, and thickened areas in corners of the outer aft flange along pressure and suction side edges of the outer band segment. The thickened areas may be thickest at the pressure and suction side edges and thinnest near a middle of the outer band segment. The thickened areas taper off from an aft end of the thickened area towards a forward flange of the outer band segment. Insert plies may be disposed between some of the band plies within the thickened areas may be grouped together in a discrete group or be interspersed with some of the band plies. The insert plies may have triangular shapes.
US08206095B2 Compound variable elliptical airfoil fillet
A gas turbine engine blade or vane having a first platform, an airfoil, and a compound fillet extending about a region where the airfoil joins the first platform is disclosed. The compound fillet has a first conic surface and a second conic surface, with the first conic surface tangent to the airfoil and to an offset platform surface and the second conic surface tangent to the first conic surface and the first platform. The two conic surfaces are of different sizes, with different radii, and the conic surfaces can vary in size about the periphery of the joint between the airfoil and the first platform.
US08206094B2 Stationary blade ring of axial compressor
An inner shroud portion and an outer shroud portion dividedly formed per stationary blade are formed integrally with each stationary blade. A plurality of the stationary blades adjacent to each other in a circumferential direction are coupled together by a band member at the outer shroud portions. The inner shroud portions are held between seal holders which are formed as two divided members in the flowing direction of a working fluid, which are fastened by a bolt, and which have a length corresponding to the plurality of the stationary blades. The plurality of stationary blades, the inner and outer shroud portions, the band member, and the seal holders assembled in this manner constitute a unit. A plurality of the units are connected in the circumferential direction to constitute a stationary blade ring of an axial compressor.
US08206093B2 Gas turbine with a gap blocking device
There is described a gas turbine with a channel wall that limits a flow, said channel wall comprising first and second wall sections, one of the wall sections being part of a combustion chamber of the gas turbine and the other wall section being part of an annular hot gas channel of a turbine unit, and the two adjacent wall sections facing each other with a gap there between. In order to reduce the leakage quantities of blocking gas that protect the gap from the entry of hot gas, it is proposed that blocking element projects from the side of the first wall section into the gap and can be displaced transversely thereto, said blocking element comprising a piston face disposed in the first wall section and a sealing structure lying opposite the piston face, it being possible to press said sealing means against an end sealing section of the second wall section by means of a pressure medium that acts on the piston face.
US08206088B1 Flow control system for an aircraft
A method for providing a flow control system for an aircraft. A compressor is removed from an existing air cycle machine, along with compressor ducting that is connected to a primary stage outlet of the heat exchanger and a secondary stage inlet of the heat exchanger in the existing air cycle machine. A first connector duct is provided and connected to the primary stage outlet of the heat exchanger and the secondary stage inlet of the heat exchanger. The turbine is removed from the existing air cycle machine, and a second connector duct is provided and connected to the upstream turbine duct directly and the downstream turbine duct.
US08206085B2 Turbine engine shroud ring
In one embodiment, a system includes a turbine engine that includes a rotor including multiple blades. The turbine engine also includes a shroud disposed about the blades. The shroud includes multiple segments engaged with one another via mating teeth. The mating teeth are oriented in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis of the turbine engine.
US08206083B2 Carbon hydrostatic face seal
A force balanced seal for use with a rotor in the turbomachine has a member in opposed facing disposition to the rotor with a face dam portion of the member having a surface parallel with the sealing surface of the rotor, a groove in the member facing the rotor and bounding the face dam surface, an air bearing surface in the member facing the sealing surface of the rotor, a second passageway through the member from the air bearing surface to a radially outwardly facing surface of the member and a first passageway through the member from the groove to a member surface facing oppositely from the air bearing surface. An operating clearance between the seal and rotor is maintained by a closing force, exerted through a plurality of springs, and an opposing opening force created by pressurized air venting through the second passageway to the first passageway.
US08206081B2 Vacuum pump
A vacuum pump (100) comprises a pumping mechanism having an annular pumping chamber (112, 114, 116) extending about a longitudinal axis (107) and through which fluid is pumped by the pumping mechanism. A plenum (126) located remote from the pumping mechanism has an inlet (128) for receiving fluid to be pumped by the pumping mechanism and a plurality of outlets (132) arranged about the longitudinal axis (107) for supplying fluid to the annular chamber.
US08206079B2 Temperature controlling apparatus
An apparatus for controlling the temperature of a component, which is situated in use in a gas stream, provides a nozzle to create a jet of air at an angle to the gas stream, the jet being directed into the region of the stagnation point of the component so as to control the temperature of the component. The invention is particularly suited to preventing or reducing the formation of ice on vanes of gas turbine engines, but may also be applied to other components, and may equally be used in situations where a component is to be cooled rather than heated.
US08206078B2 System and method for monitoring radial motion of a rotating shaft of a turbocharger
A system is provided for monitoring radial motion of a rotating shaft of a turbocharger. The turbocharger includes a compressor and a turbine coupled to opposing ends of the shaft. The system includes a thrust collar including a cylindrical portion and a flange configured to radially extend from one end of the cylindrical portion. The thrust collar is configured to rotate with the shaft. A sensor is positioned within a separation of an outer surface of the thrust collar flange, and the sensor is configured to monitor the separation as indicative of the radial motion of the shaft. Additionally, a method is provided for monitoring radial motion of a rotating shaft of a turbocharger.
US08206069B1 ATV/motorcycle lockdown apparatus
An apparatus for securing one or two personal transport vehicles such as motorcycles or ATV's in an upright position on a support surface such as the bed of a truck or the ground includes a pair of elongated straight handlebar struts telescopically adjustable to a length fixable by a first key lock. Each strut has an upper hook lockable by a second key lock to a handlebar of a personal transport vehicle, and a lower hook securable within a perforation through an anchor member such as a truck bed component or an elongated, perforated channel member, by a third key lock. The apparatus includes an elongated cross-lock arm telescopically adjustable to a length fixable by a cross-lock arm key lock. Each cross-lock arm has at one end thereof a swivelable hook for engaging a structural member of a personal transport vehicle, and at the other end a fixed hook for engaging a perforation through an eye plate protruding from the strut, the longitudinal position of which eye plate is adjustable on the strut. A pair of struts and a pair of cross-lock arms are used to secure a single vehicle, and a pair of vehicles is securable by a pair of struts and single cross-lock arm disposed between the vehicles.
US08206068B2 Main spindle device
In a main spindle device provided with a housing and a main spindle, a labyrinth-forming annular groove is formed, in the circumferential direction of the main spindle, on the outer circumferential surface of a protruding portion of the spindle that protrudes from the housing on the front side. A housing lid member having a protruding portion that is inserted into the labyrinth-forming annular groove so as not to contact an inside surface of the labyrinth-forming annular groove all around the periphery is fixed to the housing on the front side thereof and forms a labyrinth seal portion between the protruding portion and the labyrinth-forming annular groove. The housing lid member is constructed so that the housing lid member can be divided into at least two pieces with respect to the circumference of the labyrinth-forming annular groove.
US08206066B2 Cutting tool and round double sided cutting insert therefor
A cutting insert for retention in a rotating cutting tool having an axis of rotation has two opposing end surfaces and a peripheral surface extending therebetween, each end surface having a mutual first axis of symmetry passing through the end surfaces about which each end surface has N-fold rotational symmetry for some value of N where N is chosen from the group consisting of 2, 3 and 4. A peripheral cutting edge is formed at the junction between each end surface and the peripheral surface, the peripheral cutting edge having N curved cutting edges merging with N straight cutting edges which extend between the curved cutting edges at extremities thereof. The curved cutting edges of the two end surfaces are not aligned in an end view of the cutting insert along the first axis of symmetry.
US08206063B2 Concentrically loaded, adjustable piering system
A piering system includes a heave plate attached to a foundation and supported by a pier. A downward facing socket is permanently attached to the heave plate. The socket receives the top end of a heavy stud of a coupling assembly, the bottom end of the stud is screwed into a captive nut of a shim-block. A nut is welded to the stud leaving about ½ inch of the stud protruding upwards for insertion into the socket. The nut may be turned to adjust the height of the stud. The shim-block and coupling assembly are supported by a head plate which is supported by the pier. The head plate includes a wide table for supporting a pair of jacks on opposite sides of a house jack facilitating installation of the system. The cooperation of the ball and socket helps to prevent “off-set loads” which otherwise may break the piering system.
US08206061B1 Eccentric vibratory weight shaft for utility compactor
A utility compactor is disclosed that includes a roller disposed on top of and connected to a base plate. The roller has two opposing vertical supports. The compactor also includes an eccentric vibratory shaft extending between and rotatably connected to the two vertical supports of the roller. The eccentric vibratory shaft includes a first rotor shaft coaxially spaced apart from a second rotor shaft. The first and second rotor shafts are coupled together by an offset shaft. The offset shaft has an I-beam cross section and includes a first angled portion, a second angled portion and a center portion disposed between and coupling the first and second angled portions together. The first angled portion is coupled to the first rotor shaft; the second angled portion is coupled to the second rotor shaft. The first and second angled portions are angled with respect to a first axis passing through the first and second rotor shafts such that the center portion has a second axis that is offset from and at least substantially parallel to the first axis.
US08206060B2 Sheet-like element for reinforcing, separating and draining large structures, such as road embankments
A sheet-like element for reinforcing, separating and draining large structures such as road embankments. The element includes a sheet-like body which has a lattice like configuration with main wires and transverse wires stretched respectively along two mutually substantially perpendicular directions and that intersect in nodes. The main extend in the extrusion direction of the blank. The main wires have an upper rim and a pair of substantially vertical lateral walls extending downwardly from the upper rim at opposite ends of said upper rim. The main wires have a lower rim in regions remote from the nodes. The main wires have a lower portion in regions at the nodes which converge with the transverse wires.
US08206057B2 Trail marking system and method
A plurality of biodegradable stakes for use as trail markers that are coated with a biodegradable coating comprised of an adhesive and a fluorescing compound for inserting into the ground such that the coated surface of the marker is exposed at various distances from each other such that the stakes glow when a source of ultra-violet light is present and thus form a route or trail by which a person can find their way to a point of interest even in low light conditions, while remaining unobtrusive so that one has difficulty seeing the stake without ultraviolet light and unless one is specifically looking for it thereby not detracting from the natural appearance of the location.
US08206052B1 Modular scaffold horizontal end connector
The invention is an end connector for a horizontal scaffold member where the top of the end connector is inserted into the interior of a scaffold pipe. The invention includes a locking latch that includes a rotating latch member and a rotating lock that interfere when the latch is locked.
US08206050B2 Dispenser having an anti-rotation piston
An elongate container includes a cylindrical chamber having an opening at one end of the container. A collar is affixed to the elongate container, and a threaded rod is axially disposed within the cylindrical chamber and coupled to the collar. The collar is adapted to rotate the threaded rod relative to the elongate container. A piston is disposed within the cylindrical chamber and is threadingly engaged with the threaded rod. The piston includes a sealing ring adapted to circumferentially seal against an inner wall of the cylindrical chamber and at least two axially aligned ribs. The ribs are disposed on a side of the piston and seated against the inner wall of the cylindrical chamber. With this arrangement, rotation of the threaded rod causes translation of the piston in the axial direction.
US08206042B2 Electro-optic device packages
A package design for electro-optic devices has been developed in which the substrate supporting the electro-optic element serves also as the base of the device housing. The electro-optic element is flip-chip bonded to the substrate. In a preferred embodiment the substrate is a multi-level wiring board.
US08206041B2 High power optical connector and optical fiber system using the same
This high power optical connector is used at least on a light-receiving side of an optical fiber. The high power optical connector is provided with: a housing; a ferrule which is accommodated in the housing to retain the optical fiber; and a flange which is connected and fixed to the housing while being in contact with an end portion of the ferrule. The ferrule is made of a transparent glass; and the flange is made of a transparent material which transmits a light which propagates through the optical fiber.
US08206039B2 Support device for bearing assemblies
A support device for a bearing assembly includes a housing with a bore and a centerline and a bearing having a bore for receiving a rotatable shaft. The support device has an annular body disposable within the housing bore and having a central axis and inner and outer surfaces extending circumferentially about the axis, the inner surface defining a central bore for receiving the bearing. One or more first integral spring portions extend generally between the inner and outer surfaces and have a first stiffness and one or more second integral spring portions are each spaced circumferentially from the first spring(s). The second spring extends generally between the inner and outer surfaces and has a second, greater stiffness. The body is adjustably angularly positionable about the body axis to adjust a position of the shaft axis with respect to the housing centerline when disposed within the support bore.
US08206037B2 Linear guide
A linear guide, which has at least one approximately U-shaped carriage with side limbs that engage at least partially over a guide rail, at least two recirculating ball shoes for the longitudinally movable support of the carriage with respect to the guide rail and adjusting means for pressing the recirculating ball shoes against the guide rail without play. At least one component is provided which has, in cross-section, at least one wedge-shaped portion, which projects at least partially into a likewise wedge-shaped intermediate space between at least one recirculating ball shoe and one of the side limbs. It is possible to realize reliable and automatic play adjustment which can be realized in a cost-effective manner, with a compact design of the linear guide being maintained.
US08206033B2 Self-standing bag and manufacturing method thereof
The self-standing bag comprises a package for accommodating a content, a port provided in the center of the top portion of the package, and reinforcing members formed of a thermoplastic resin which cover the outer faces of both side edges of the package. The lower end portion of the reinforcing member is located above the bottom edge of the package. The lower end portion of the reinforcing member is projected inward of a lower cutout.
US08206028B2 Portable device and portable watch
A portable device, such as a wristwatch, has a push-button that includes an engaging portion, and the push-button is mounted on a watch sheath. A stopper is arranged on the watch sheath. The stopper is movable between a locked position in which the push-button is held at a predetermined position by engagement with the engaging portion and an unlocked position in which the operation of the push-button is allowed. A circular operating ring surrounds an hour plate mounted on the watch sheath and is rotatably mounted on the watch sheath from the front side thereof. The movement of the stopper between the locked position and the unlocked position is interlocked with the rotating operation of the operating ring.
US08206026B2 Food flipping and turning apparatus
A cooking apparatus includes a spatula assembly and a cooking container comprising an upper access opening and an inner, cooking surface having a spherical surface portion. The spatula assembly includes a spatula driver and a curved spatula pivotally mounted to the cooking container for moving along the cooking surface and about a pivot axis between first and second positions. The pivot axis passes through the center point of the spherical surface portion. The spatula assembly may be constructed so that at least one of the first and second positions is above the pivot axis. The curved spatula may also include a spatula body having an outer surface and a barrier member extending radially inwardly from the outer surface, the outer surface contacting the cooking surface of the cooking container.
US08206024B2 Ultrasonic treatment chamber for particle dispersion into formulations
An ultrasonic mixing system having a particulate dispensing system to dispense particulates into a treatment chamber and the treatment chamber in which particulates can be mixed with one or more formulations is disclosed. Specifically, the treatment chamber has an elongate housing through which a formulation and particulates flow longitudinally from an inlet port to an outlet port thereof. An elongate ultrasonic waveguide assembly extends within the housing and is operable at a predetermined ultrasonic frequency to ultrasonically energize the formulation and particulates within the housing. An elongate ultrasonic horn of the waveguide assembly is disposed at least in part intermediate the inlet and outlet ports, and has a plurality of discrete agitating members in contact with and extending transversely outward from the horn intermediate the inlet and outlet ports in longitudinally spaced relationship with each other. The horn and agitating members are constructed and arranged for dynamic motion of the agitating members relative to the horn at the predetermined frequency and to operate in an ultrasonic cavitation mode of the agitating members corresponding to the predetermined frequency and the formulation and particulates being mixed in the chamber.
US08206022B2 Backlight assembly and cover for a compact display apparatus
A back cover for a backlight assembly capable of achieving a more compact a display apparatus includes a cover element, a line portion, and a plurality of point light sources. The cover element includes a metallic layer, and the cross-section of the cover element has an L-shape. The line portion is formed over the cover element. The point light sources are mounted on the surface of the cover element to receive a driving voltage from the line portion. A bottom cover portion of the cover element covers an opening portion. A side cover portion of the cover element faces the side wall. The point light sources mounted on the cover element emit light on a side surface of a light guide plate.
US08206018B2 Water jet guided laser device having light guide pipe
An exemplary water jet guided laser device includes a water-ejecting device and a hollow light guide pipe. The water-ejecting device has a water chamber, a light incident through hole and a water-ejecting through hole defined at opposite sides thereof. The light incident through hole and the water-ejecting through hole are in communication with the water chamber. The water-ejecting device is configured for ejecting water from the water chamber through the water-ejecting through hole. The light incident through hole is configured for introducing a laser beam in the water chamber. The hollow light guide pipe is mounted in the water chamber and aligned with the light incident through hole and the water-ejecting through hole. The light guide pipe is watertight and is configured for receiving and guiding the laser beam from the light incident through hole to the water-ejecting through hole.
US08206009B2 Light emitting diode lamp source
A light fixture includes a core member having a top end, a bottom end, and a body extending between the top and bottom ends. The core member includes a solid, single member or modular members. The body includes outer surfaces (“facets”) spaced along an outer perimeter thereof. Each facet can receive one or more light emitting diode (“LED”) packages in various different positions, with different electrical and other configurations. By rearranging and/or reconfiguring the LED packages, the light fixture can have different optical distributions, such as that traditionally provided by metal halide, high intensity discharge, quartz, sodium, incandescent, and fluorescent light sources. Heat pipes extending through the core member dissipate heat from the LEDs. Active cooling modules and/or fins may assist with this heat dissipation. The heat pipes and/or a separate elongated structure extending through the core member can secure the core member to the light fixture.
US08206007B2 Vibrating LED lighting device
A wand attached to an eccentrically weighted motor randomly vibrates the wand. An LED cluster including blue, red, and green LEDs is coupled to an end of the vibrating wand for providing a visual display of blue, violet, red, yellow, green and white light.
US08206005B2 Light assembly
A light assembly is disclosed which can include an LED array and a reflector. The LED array can include a plurality of LEDs which are disposed such that each LED is substantially aligned to define a focal axis. Each LED can emit light substantially along an optical output axis, with each optical output axis being perpendicular to the focal axis. The optical output axis of the LED array can be disposed in intersecting relationship with the reflector surface. The reflector can be defined by a curve section defined with respect to a principal axis. The principal axis and the output axis of the LED array can be in non-parallel relationship with each other. The optical output axis of the LED array can be substantially perpendicular to the principal axis of the curve section of the reflector.
US08206002B1 Modular lighted floor mat for use beneath equipment
A modular lighted floor mat for use beneath equipment for providing hands-free light necessary to work on the equipment. The modular lighted floor mat for use beneath equipment includes a lighted floor mat assembly including a base member, light-emitting members, and a transparent load-bearing cover being disposed over the light-emitting members and the base member and being capable of withstanding substantial weights and also being impervious to chemicals.
US08206001B2 Methods and apparatus for providing lighting via a grid system of a suspended ceiling
Methods and apparatus for providing sources of light, or mechanical and/or electrical connections for light sources, via a grid system of a suspended ceiling. All or a portion of a grid system for a suspended ceiling may be configured to support the generation of light. Lighting units may be coupled to various portions of the grid system in a removable and modular fashion, so as to be completely or substantially recessed above the ceiling surface, or as pendant components hanging below the ceiling surface. Lighting interface components of the grid system also may be configured to facilitate significant thermal dissipation from lighting units. In one exemplary implementation, one or more LED-based lighting units may be coupled to one or more lighting interface components of the grid system so as to provide controllable multi-color and/or essentially white light.
US08205999B2 Multi view display device
A multi view display comprising a light emitting element having an optical cavity formed by a first and a second reflecting layer, at least said second reflecting layer being semi-transparent, and a light emitting layer arranged between said reflecting layers, wherein said optical cavity is designed so that light emitted in at least two preferred viewing directions has a higher intensity than light emitted in other directions. The invention is based on interference phenomena in the optical cavity, making it possible to realize a light emitting element that intrinsically emits more light in the preferential viewing directions than in other directions. This emission profile makes the light emitting element very useful in a multi view display, reducing the problems of cross talk.
US08205994B1 Minimum retroreflectivity compliance system, method and assembly
A system, method and assembly for performing traffic sign inspections is provided. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a first plurality of sheetings that each have a combination of retroreflectivity and color that is different from the combination of retroreflectivity and color of each of the other first plurality of sheetings; a first clamp and second clamp for clamping one of said first plurality of sheetings to a traffic sign; a first handheld light source; and a first enclosure for removably housing the first plurality of sheetings, said first and second clamps, and said first handheld light source. The assembly may further include a second enclosure for removably housing a second plurality of sheetings that each has a combination of retroreflectivity and color that is different from the combination of retroreflectivity and color of each of the other second plurality of sheetings.
US08205993B2 Projection-type image displaying apparatus
A projection-type image displaying apparatus takes in outside air through an air inlet formed in a housing unit to cool at least one of an optical modulator and an optical element that are accommodated in the housing unit, the optical modulator forming an optical image and the optical element being disposed between the optical modulator and a light source. The projection-type image displaying apparatus includes a cooling fan, a first dustproof filter disposed at the air inlet of the housing unit, a second dustproof filter disposed in a flow path that guides the outside air toward the optical modulator or the optical element after the outside air passes through the first dustproof filter and the cooling fan, and a holder for holding the optical modulator or the optical element, the holder having an outside-air introducing portion, wherein the second dustproof filter is attachable to the outside-air introducing portion.
US08205991B2 Method of eye registration for optical coherence tomography
A method is disclosed for use in eye registrations and examinations, some embodiments of the method including acquiring scan pattern scans; forming images from the scans; registering the images; generating a feature map from the scan pattern scans; identifying features on the feature map; and recording positional information of features.
US08205985B1 Hat-mounted eyewear
Eyewear mountable thereto an existing baseball style cap is herein disclosed, comprising a similar appearance and utilization as a standard pair of sunglasses and a separate baseball cap; however, a modified earpiece is routed upward and fastened to the lower edge of the baseball cap with a free-turning assembly on each side of the cap. In use, the eyewear pivots around and down to the underside of the bill for use and pivots back to the top of the bill for storage.
US08205981B1 System and method for single pass printing on textiles
Systems and methods are described for printing directly onto textiles including digitally printing an image in a single pass. The systems and methods provide for printing in one pass, thereby reducing distortion from movement of the textile or misalignment of the print head(s). The systems and methods provide for a second print head that may operate as a redundant print head.
US08205979B2 Liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes ejection orifices allowing liquid to be ejected therethrough, passages communicating with the ejection orifices and the pressure chambers each accommodating an energy generating element generating energy for ejecting the liquid therein, a supply port supplying the liquid to the passages, and a filter including substantially cylindrical members between the supply port and passages and having openings. Each of the ejection orifices has a substantially circular cross section having larger and smaller diameters substantially perpendicularly to its liquid ejecting direction. Each of the openings has a substantially rectangular cross section having longer and shorter sides substantially perpendicularly to its liquid supplying direction. The relationships D1>L1, D1L2≧D1 are satisfied where D1 is the smaller diameter, D2 is the larger diameter, L1 is the shorter side, and L2 is the longer side.
US08205975B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus for performing recording by reciprocally moving a liquid discharge head includes the liquid discharge head, which includes a case, a connection terminal group including a plurality of connection terminals capable of electrically connecting to the recording apparatus and which is provided on one face of the case, a liquid discharge substrate for discharging a liquid from a discharge port according to a signal transmitted from the recording apparatus via the connection terminals, and a supporting substrate supporting the liquid discharge substrate, which is provided on another one face of the case. The recording apparatus includes a standby area provided on the one end of the recording apparatus where the liquid discharge head is on stand-by when recording is not performed, and a carriage including a connection terminal which can electrically connect to the liquid discharge head, is mounted with the liquid discharge head, and reciprocally moves between the standby area and another end of the recording apparatus.
US08205974B2 Ink tank and printing apparatus
An ink tank with a high volume efficiency and a printing apparatus which are capable of completely using up ink stored in the ink tank. A meniscus holding force (Pm1) of a non-compressed portion (22b) of an ink guide member (22) is set higher than an initial ink-storage-portion negative pressure (P1), and lower than a used-up ink-storage-portion negative pressure (P2). In addition, a meniscus holding force (Pm2) caused under compression is set stronger than the used-up ink-storage-portion negative pressure (P2), and weaker than a meniscus holding force (Phf) of a head filter (50).
US08205971B2 Electrically grounded inkjet ejector and method for making an electrically grounded inkjet ejector
An inkjet ejector provides electrical conductors for grounding electrically isolated layers in the ejector while electrically coupling a transducer of the ejector to a firing signal circuit. The inkjet ejector includes a diaphragm plate have a first side and a second side, a plurality of transducers mounted to the first side of the diaphragm plate, a polymer layer located on the second side of the diaphragm plate, an electrically conductive layer that is isolated from electrical ground by the polymer layer, and a plurality of electrical conductors, at least one of the electrical conductors extends from the electrically conductive layer to electrical ground through the polymer layer and other electrical conductors of the plurality of electrical conductors extend from each transducer to a firing signal circuit, the electrical conductor extending from the electrically conductive layer being the same material as the other electrical conductors in the plurality of electrical conductors.
US08205959B2 Method of maintaining printhead with cleaned pad
A method of maintaining a printhead in an operable condition is provided in which a pad is moved between a first position in which the pad is sealingly engaged with the printhead, a second position in which the pad is disengaged from the printhead and a third position in which the pad is engaged with a pad cleaner. The pad is biased towards the second position relative to the third position.
US08205956B2 Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus configured to record images on front and back surfaces of a sheet, including: a head which ejects ink onto the sheet for recording; a sheet-supply roller which contacts the sheet so as to transfer the sheet for supplying to the head; a sheet-supply path which is provided between the sheet-supply roller and the head, which has a U-shape, and through which the sheet is transferred such that one of surfaces thereof opposite to the other of the surfaces contacted by the sheet-supply roller faces the head; and a sheet-stopping control section configured to control the sheet-supply roller such that the sheet transferred by the sheet-supply roller is stopped for a first time in the sheet-supply path in a state in which the sheet is deformed so as to have a U-shape, after an image has been recorded on the front surface of the sheet and before an image is recorded on the back surface thereof.
US08205954B2 Image recording apparatus and image recording method
An image recording apparatus includes a feeding device which feeds a recording medium based on a target feed amount, a recording device which records an image on the recording medium that is fed by the feeding device, a feed-amount correcting portion which corrects the target feed amount, and a recording-position adjusting portion which adjusts a first position in which an image recording is initiated on the recording medium, corresponding to a correction of the target feed amount by the feed-amount correcting portion.
US08205945B2 Rotary mechanism of rotary seats
A rotary mechanism includes an upper seat pan, a lower seat pan and an arc slideway mechanism. The upper and lower seat pans are connected at their sides and can rotate relative to each other. A middle inner slide rail of the arc slideway mechanism, which has a long through-hole in its center and is fixed to the lower seat pan, is positioned between an upper supporting plate and a lower supporting plate, both of which have a long aperture in their respective centers. Fixed parts run through the long through-hole and the long apertures, and fix an upper outer slide rail and a lower outer slide rail. A locking mechanism having portions fixed to the upper seat pan and the lower seat pan, respectively, is arranged to cooperate with the arc slideway mechanism to limit relative rotation of the upper and lower seat pans.
US08205943B2 Foldable rocking chair
A foldable rocking chair includes a base having a curved rocking portion, a first adjustment rod pivotally connected to the base, a seat having a front end pivotally connected to a front end of the base, a second adjustment rod pivotally connected to the seat, and a folding joint for interconnecting the first and second adjustment rods. The seat is adjustable relative to the base between a fully unfolded position and a folded position. The folding joint is constructed so as to allow pivoting movement of the seat from the folded position to the fully unfolded position, while preventing pivoting movement of the seat from the fully unfolded position to the folded position when no external force is applied the folding joint.
US08205942B2 Stadium seat
A seat frame of a stadium seat includes a lower cross beam, bench-engaging support arms configured to mount over a top, flat surface of the stadium bench, and upright support members. The upright support members include rounded upper ends that may be rearwardly canted.
US08205938B2 Seat device
A seat device, in particular a motor vehicle or airplane seat device, has a table mounting unit. It is suggested that the table mounting unit comprises at least one coupling gear.
US08205937B2 Mobile folding table with high-speed cylinder lift-assist and stabilizer mechanism
The present invention provides a mobile folding table with attached seating having an improved lift-assist mechanism. In particular, the table includes a gas cylinder that provides a force tending to extend the cylinder to assist in folding the table into a storage position, the cylinder providing substantially no force to resist rapid extension thereof. Preferably, a mobile folding table according to the present invention also includes a stabilizing mechanism including center bench legs attached to a center leg structure that is maintained substantially upright whether the table is in an unfolded use configuration, in a mobile folded storage configuration, or in the process of being folded or unfolded. In this manner, the attached benches are prevented from freely tipping when the table is being folded or moved.
US08205936B2 Chair convertible into a chaise-lounge
A chair convertible into a chaise lounge comprises: a stationary base structure having a front section and a rear section, a sitting unit including a seat portion and a backrest portion, wherein the seat portion is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane; and two foot-rests, each of which has a portion for resting the feet and a portion for resting on the floor. Each of the foot-rests is articulated to the front section of the base structure about a respective vertical axis of articulation and is rotatable substantially through 180° between an inoperative position and an operative position. In the inoperative position, each portion for resting the feet extends underneath the seat portion of the sitting unit, and in the operative position each portion for resting the feet extends forward beyond a front edge of the seat portion and has an inclination with respect to a horizontal plane opposite with respect to the inclination of the seat portion.
US08205935B2 Collapsible stool for easy storage
A collapsible stool for easy storage, comprising a collapsible, bench body member, a bench body support panel; and a bench cap. When in use, the bench cap is mounted on the bench body member in its expanded state. The bench body member, in its expanded state, forms a four-sided cylindrical body. Each of the four walls of the four-sided cylindrical body is made of a soft exterior layer, and a solid composite panel that is enclosed within the soft exterior layer. The bench cap is a non-collapsible cap-shaped body that is formed from a bench cap surface member, and bench cap walls to which the bench cap surface member is connected. The bench cap surface member and the bench cap walls are made of a soft exterior layer, and a solid composite panel enclosed within the soft exterior layer. When stored, the bench body support panel and the collapsed bench body member of the present collapsible stool are disposed in the non-collapsible bench cap, forming a single unit that is convenient for storage and transportation.
US08205932B1 Air foil wing for trailer
An air foil structure attachable to a semi-trailer of a tractor-trailer rig is herein disclosed, intended to produce various aerodynamic affects such as reducing turbulence, creating lift, and creating down force. The air foil apparatus is mounted to a trailer chassis and extends upwardly to a height approximately that of the cab portion of the tractor. The air foil apparatus comprises a stationary pedestal structure having a pair of attached vertical hydraulic cylinders which connect to the air foil wing portion. The hydraulic cylinders enable height adjustment of the air foil wing by an operator during transit via a remote controller within the cab area. The angle of the wing may be manually adjusted and secured in position via pivoting trunnion mounts. The current height of the air foil wing is displayed upon the remote controller allowing an operator to effectively lower the air foil wing during transit when approaching height-restricting objects.
US08205924B2 Pick-up style utility vehicle with expandable cargo bed
A pick-up style utility vehicle has a front seat, a rear seat, a cargo bed that is expandable forward, and a screen shield arranged at the front end of the cargo bed. The position of the cargo bed can be changed between an expanded state and a non-expanded state. A winding device for the screen shield is provided on a front panel. The screen shield is made of a net material having flexibility, for example. One end of the screen shield is windably supported by the winding device. The other end of the screen shield has an engaging portion. A first engaged portion for a non-expanded position and a second engaged portion for an expanded position are provided in the cabin frame.
US08205923B2 Retaining clip for ditch molding
A ditch molding has a head with left and right wings that lap onto the roof, a stem depending from the head, and an enlarged foot at the lower end of the stem. A molding clip has a base mounted in the ditch and left and right biasing arms have wedge faces that engage with the foot to urge the foot downwardly into the ditch, establishing an installed position of the molding. The left and right biasing arms yield away from each other upon an upward movement of the foot. Left and right trap arms also provided on the clip have trap ends overlying the foot of the molding in spaced relation there from when the molding is in the installed position. Upward movement of the foot causes the foot to engage with the trap ends of the trap arms, trapping the foot against further upward movement.
US08205917B2 Quick connect fitting for respiratory devices
There is provided a novel fitting having male and female ends and a tapered internal luer-type seal. The male fitting end has a periphery upon which is mounted at least one boss. The female fitting end has a slot into which the boss may be inserted. At the bottom of the slot is a stop to limit the insertion depth of the boss. The male and female ends may then be rotated relative to each other to move the boss into a window on the female end. The window has a frame and the upper frame is angled slightly, corresponding to the boss, which serves to draw the male end farther in to the female end. The window has a side frame that stops the rotational movement of the boss. When the movement of the boss is stopped, the male and female tapers are in substantially leak-free contact. There is also provided a closed suction catheter using the novel fitting, such that the catheter may be easily and quickly removed and replaced.
US08205915B1 Piping joint assembly system and method
A pipe fitting and associated piping joint assembly package allow re-use and repair of push-fit piping fittings and valves without damage to the fitting or valve elements or the pipe, and without coining, gluing or threaded engagement of parts. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a pipe fitting having first and second radial housing elements for receiving one or more sealing members and a fastening ring, respectively. The fastening ring can be a split fastening ring. The split fastening ring and the sealing members provided as part of the present invention are capable of being removed and/or replaced.
US08205914B2 Coupling assembly for a fluid-flow circuit
A coupling assembly including an endpiece defining a fluid flow passageway and being adapted to be secured to an outlet of a fluid-flow circuit, and a coupling member including a body defining at least one housing for receiving locking balls, a slider defining an axial wall of the at least one housing, a control member surrounding the body and slider and being provided with a ball-locking element that is movable between a rest position in which it and the slider, in an advanced position thereof, retain the locking balls in an innermost locking position, and a release position wherein the slider is movable to allow the locking balls to move both linearly and outwardly to an unlocked position thereof, and return elements for returning the control member to its rest position.
US08205913B2 Respiratory triple swivel manifold
A respiratory triple swivel manifold is provided which has a base port, which is coupled to a central body. The central body has two laterally-positioned arms, and each arm has a lateral port. Each base port and each lateral port has an inner sleeve which is movable relative to its port. The manifold also has a proximal port coupled to the central body, which may or may not have a rotatable inner sleeve. At least one of the arms and its respective lateral port is positioned at an angle in a range of greater than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees relative to the central body. Desirably, the base port, the central body and its arms and their respective ports form a Y-shape. The proximal port may intersect the Y-shaped manifold. The base port includes a ramp to direct an object moved through one port into a passageway of the manifold and through the base port to an endotracheal tube without folding, twisting or bunching of any portion of the object within the manifold.
US08205911B2 Telescoping tube system for a vacuum cleaner
A telescoping tube system for a vacuum cleaner, with an inner jacket tube, an outer jacket tube, an inner suction tube and a cable, the inner jacket tube having a smaller cross section than the outer jacket tube so that the inner jacket tube and the outer jacket tube form a telescoping jacket channel, the inner suction tube being located inside of the jacket channel, and the cable being guided within the jacket channel and outside of the inner suction tube. In the telescoping tube system, losses of suction force by the intake of secondary air are reduced to a minimum and reliable cable routing is ensured by there being an outer suction tube, the outer suction tube and the inner suction tube forming an essentially closed suction channel within the jacket channel.
US08205910B2 Utility vehicle having modular components
Multiple embodiments are disclosed which display modularity for accomplishing multiple modes of operation for a utility vehicle. The utility vehicle (100) may include a rear cargo platform (450), a plurality of connection points (460) disposed in matrix and adapted to couple an item to the rear cargo platform, and three or more couplings (490) for adding a subsection (470) in a non-pivotable manner or pivotably coupling the rear cargo platform. The vehicle may be a four-wheeled vehicle that coverts to a six-wheeled vehicle by the addition of the subsection. The utility vehicle may include a subsection cargo platform which may be coupled to the rear cargo platform and may pivot rearward. The utility vehicle may include couplings for adding a second subsection.
US08205908B2 Inflatable airbag assembly having a cosmetic cover with a flexible mounting bracket
Inflatable airbag assemblies can be mounted on a driver's side of a vehicle within a steering wheel. A gap is formed between the airbag assembly cover and the steering wheel. Maintaining a consistent width of the gap can be accomplished with an airbag assembly that is bolted to the steering wheel by minimizing the number of components used to attach the airbag assembly to the steering wheel. A flexible airbag housing mounting bracket can be used to allow the housing and cover to be positioned and oriented within the steering wheel so that the gap between the airbag cover and the steering wheel is maintained.
US08205903B2 Adjustable handlebar for a vehicle
Each side of an adjustable handlebar assembly has a hand grip assembly receiving portion having one of an elongated hollow member and an elongated member, a hand grip assembly and at least one releasable fastener. The hand grip assembly has the other of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member, and a hand grip disposed on the other of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member. The at least one releasable fastener is disposed on one of the elongated hollow member and the elongated member. The elongated member is received coaxially in the elongated hollow member. The hand grip is axially movable and pivotable relative to the hand grip assembly receiving portion. The at least one releasable fastener is operative to selectively and releasably fix the elongated member relative to the elongated hollow member.
US08205899B2 Extendible axle member for the rear of an agricultural harvester
An extendible axle member (146 or 148) is provided for a pivoting axle of an agricultural harvester (100), the extendible axle member (146 or 148) having an elongate telescopic portion (400) with bearing surfaces for being slidably received in an outer axle member (142 or 144), wherein the elongate telescopic portion (400) is formed integral with and abuts a C-frame for supporting a steering knuckle (158 or 160).
US08205895B2 Swingable and speedable freewheeled vehicle
A swingable and speedable freewheeled vehicle includes a swingable device installed between a frame and each rear wheel. The swingable device has a guiding track fixed to a seated member, a spindle pivoted on said seated member, and a sliding assembly for sliding along the guiding track. Thereby, while driving the freewheeled vehicle via swinging, a sliding stem of the sliding assembly would slide along the guiding track and subject to an inertial force. Accordingly, a distance between the ground and the frame would be varied commensurately with the freewheeled vehicle moving along with the inertia force during the sliding so as to readily and speedily motivate the freewheeled vehicle forwards.
US08205893B2 Variable chassis adjustment system
In an example embodiment, an adjustment apparatus for varying the ground clearance of a vehicle includes an adjustable leg configured to couple to a chassis and wheel of a vehicle, and a removable stop to releasably fix the adjustable leg in a desired condition. The adjustable leg may include a main leg and a drop leg that is movable within the leg, the main leg configured to couple to a chassis of a vehicle and the drop leg configured to couple to a vehicle wheel.
US08205890B2 Resilient high pressure metal-to-metal seal and method
A high pressure metal-to-metal seal utilizes an expandable metal seal element able to withstand caustic fluids, high pressure, and high temperature. The metal-to-metal seal assembly is resilient for repeatable sealing and comprises an energizing metal ring and a metal sealing ring. Engagement of these two rings expands surfaces of the metal sealing ring to create inner and/or outer metal-to-metal seals.
US08205885B2 Two-dimensional tiling puzzle having three-dimensional features
A tiling puzzle having a first two-dimensional portion and a second three-dimensional portion that extends away from the plane of the first two-dimensional portion.
US08205882B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, including: a recording head; a conveyor belt to convey the medium in a conveyance direction; an attraction device including a first electrode having first extending portions and a second electrode having second extending portions and configured to permit the belt to generate an attractive force to attract the medium to the belt by giving mutually different potentials to the first and second electrodes; and, a pressing device including a contact member having electrical conductivity and disposed at a position where the contact member is opposed to respective upstream sections of the first and second extending portions, which upstream sections are located on an upstream side of the head in the conveyance direction, the contact member being configured to contact the medium placed on the belt, the pressing device being configured to press the medium onto the belt by the contact member.
US08205880B2 Sheet feeding device and skew detecting method
A plurality of moving-amount detecting units respectively detects a moving amount of the sheet fed by a feeding unit at a plurality of points in a width direction of the sheet. A skew detecting unit detects a skew of the sheet based on the moving amount of the sheet detected by the moving-amount detecting units.
US08205879B2 Sheet conveyance apparatus having skew conveyance mechanism with sheet deforming unit and image forming apparatus including the same
A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a reference surface extending along a sheet conveyance direction and configured to regulate the position of a side edge of a sheet to be conveyed, a skew conveyance mechanism configured to convey the sheet obliquely so that the side edge of the sheet collides against the reference surface, and a sheet deforming unit configured to deform the side edge of the sheet when the sheet is conveyed toward the reference surface by the skew conveyance mechanism.
US08205878B2 Image forming apparatus capable of providing side registration
An image forming apparatus includes: a sheet conveyance path in which a sheet is conveyed; at least one sheet feeding mechanism to supply the sheet to the sheet conveyance path; a sheet conveyance mechanism to convey the sheet in a sheet conveyance direction; a detection mechanism to detect a position of a side of the sheet parallel to the sheet conveyance direction; a movement mechanism to move the sheet in a direction perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction; a memory to store reference position information specific to the at least one sheet feeding mechanism, respectively; and a movement control mechanism to control a movement distance of the movement mechanism based on the detected position and the reference position information specific to a selected one of the at least one sheet feeding mechanism.
US08205871B2 Separator device using balls for separating flat articles
A separator device for separating flat articles one-by-one from a stack of flat articles and for conveying them downstream, said separator device comprising at least one flexible bag provided with a plurality of balls and co-operating with a drive member so that, by deforming while said flat articles are being conveyed downstream, it separates said flat articles one-by-one. A particular application lies in separating mailpieces.
US08205870B2 Paper feeding device and program for controlling the same
A paper feeding device for feeding a sheet of printing paper to a printing position of a printing apparatus in order to print the paper is disclosed. The paper feeding device includes a paper tray that stores plural sheets of the paper, a transport unit that transports the paper from the paper tray to the printing position, a guide unit that is provided to adjust a guide width in accordance with the width of the paper which is substantially perpendicular to a feeding direction of the paper transported by the transport unit, and to guide the paper which is transported from the paper tray by the transport unit.
US08205867B2 Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
Provided is a sheet processing apparatus for processing sheets, including: a sheet process tray on which sheets to be processed are stacked; a sheet transport means for transporting processed sheets on the sheet process tray; a pressure member which is provided on an upstream side of the sheet transport means with respect to a sheet transport direction and which moves in the sheet transport direction while pressing the processed sheets, for transporting the processed sheets in cooperation with the sheet transport unit; and a controller for selectively operating the pressure member.
US08205866B2 Form having abutting interconnected substrates and method of making same
A business form product (10) broadly including a printable sheet (12), a magnetic sheet (14) aligned edge-to-edge with the printable sheet (12) to define a seam (16), and a heat-resistant tape (18) applied over the seam (16) to retain the sheets (12,14) in the edge-to-edge relationship is disclosed. The inventive business form product (10, 106) is formed by joining multiple continuous webs (38, 58) edge-to-edge and marrying the webs (38,58) with an adhesive strip.
US08205864B2 Strut for a wheel suspension of motor vehicles
The invention relates to a strut for a wheel suspension of motor vehicles, comprising a telescoping shock absorber and a support spring which surrounds it, as well as with a vertical adjustment means with a driven driving spindle which is pivoted by way of a body-mounted bearing on the engine housing side, which interacts with a vertically adjustable lifting element which is arranged to be non-rotatable and which bears the spring plate of the support spring. According to the invention, the driving spindle, in addition to the body-mounted bearing, is supported directly or indirectly on the cylinder tube of the shock absorber to be able to pivot and move axially relative to it.
US08205863B2 Distributor for a gas-liquid contacting vessel
One exemplary embodiment can be a distributor for a liquid in a gas-liquid contacting vessel. The distributor can include: a first member forming a plurality of apertures permitting a liquid to pass there-through; a first compartment coupled to the first member forming a barrier proximate to a perimeter of a first aperture of the plurality of apertures; and a second compartment coupled to the first member forming a barrier proximate to a perimeter of a second aperture of the plurality of apertures. Generally, the first compartment forms a hole at a first height and the second compartment forms a hole at a second height different from the first height with respect to the first member.
US08205862B2 Device for mixing water and gas
A device for mixing water and gas for drinking purposes including mixing of water and gas, in which a water supply and a gas supply end. The mixing includes a turbulence generator, having a housing containing a mixture of water and gas and a plunger with two frontal faces. The plunger and the housing can be moved relative to each other in an oscillating manner. A flow connection is provided between the two frontal faces of the plunger.
US08205855B2 Electric control valve
An electric control valve provided in the present invention has a valve gate and a control actuator including a middle seat (10), a setting part (9), a thermal sensitive element (7), a pushing rod (11) and a memory alloy spring (6), wherein, the thermal sensitive element (7) is disposed within the middle seat (10) and fixed by the setting part (9), with both poles on it being connected with control terminals respectively, the thermal sensitive element (7) is surrounded by the memory alloy spring (6) and the pushing rod (11) located under the memory alloy spring from outside. Through applying operating voltage on the thermal sensitive element within the electric control valve and then swiftly transmitting heat to the memory alloy spring, when the temperature of the memory alloy spring reaches to a deforming temperature, the memory alloy spring deforms and expands and thus pushes the pushing rod to move. A core 4 and a piston are then driven to move by magnetic coupling. Therefore, the valve is controlled to be closed off. The electric control valve provided in the present invention has characteristics of low energy consuming and stable operating performance, achieving a sensitive remote control of the electric control valve.
US08205852B2 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.
US08205851B2 Apparatus for holding substantially cylindrically shaped elements
A self-adjusting apparatus is provided for clamping and supporting a substantially cylindrical element. When an element is placed in the self-adjusting apparatus, the element is supported at about 90° from the surface on which the apparatus sits. This is achieved with an integrated clamping mechanism and, preferably, with a self-centering mechanism comprising flexure springs and a retaining-center pin. The clamping mechanism applies a substantially radial force on the element that is directly proportional to the substantially cylindrical element's weight, and can be less than the weight of the element, preventing damage to the element. The present invention can include a liquid management system for when the apparatus supports a tree trunk. The liquid management system can include a reservoir, a funnel for filling the reservoir, a capillary wick and mat that provides water to the tree even when it is above the level of water in the reservoir.
US08205850B2 Hands-free reading device
The disclosed hands-free reading device is a particle filled bag having an alcove to support a book or other item comprising readable text in a hands-free reading position. A method of arranging an item for the purposes of reading is also provided.
US08205849B2 Display screen turning apparatus and television set
This display screen turning apparatus includes a first support member of metal supporting a display screen portion and a second support member of metal supporting the first support member to be anteroposteriorly rotatable by a prescribed angle with respect to a vertical plane, and either the first support member or the second support member has a receiving hole, while either the second support member or the first support member integrally has a platelike support shaft of metal inserted into the receiving hole.
US08205846B2 Magnetic holding device for a shower device on a rod
A holding device for a shower device has a holder for the shower device that may be attached to and displaced along a hollow rod, the holder surrounding the rod in a collar-like manner. A displaceable carriage having a certain frictional effect and comprising two magnets is disposed in the rod. The holder has two magnets for attachment on the rod such that, in the holding position, the magnets of the carriage interact with the magnets of the holder under a magnetic attractive force so as to prevent the holder from sliding downward because a clamping or frictional effect results from the attractive force of the magnets.
US08205845B2 Holding arrangement having a weight balance
A holding arrangement is suitable especially for medical-optical equipment (108). The holding arrangement includes a carrier arm (101) for accommodating a load. The carrier arm (101) is pivotally mounted on a holder (102) with the aid of a first rotational joint (103). The holding arrangement further includes a linear spring arrangement (120) for generating a longitudinal force which acts upon the carrier arm (101) in order to compensate a load torque arising in the first rotational joint (103) of the carrier arm (101). The linear spring arrangement (120) for generating a longitudinal force is pivotally mounted on the holder (102) and applies a force on a curved carrier (119) which is operatively connected to the carrier arm (101).
US08205843B2 Rollerball leveling leg
A leveling leg for an appliance is provided, including a main shaft and a foot coupled to the main shaft. A recess extends at least partially into the foot and includes an opening through a bottom surface of the foot. A ball is adapted to be received within the recess. The opening substantially surrounds at least a portion of the ball and is configured to inhibit removal of the ball from the recess. In one example, the ball is adapted to be received within the recess by a snap-fit engagement with the at least one arm. In another example, a plurality of arms are at least partially disposed within the recess and cooperate at one end thereof to engage the ball at an area below a great circle of the ball to inhibit removal of the ball from the recess.
US08205835B2 Systems and methods for aerial cabled transportation
The technology described herein provides for the creation of an atmospherically-lifted multi-tethered structure in a semi-stationary position in the atmosphere, which supports cabled cargo handling operations within the three-dimensional space beneath the structure, allowing cargo loads to move directly from source to destination in that same space (between the ground and the atmospherically-suspended structure itself). The design combines a highly configurable aerial platform with the usefulness of complex cargo transportation systems to enable transit both at high speeds over long distances, and at low speeds on the localized level. Constant atmospheric lift from buoyancy and wind effects allows for a flexible transportation infrastructure over a broad three-dimensional area.
US08205833B2 Composite leg structure for a lightweight aircraft seat assembly
An aircraft passenger seat configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention utilizes composite materials to achieve significant weight savings relative to conventional seat designs. The seat includes one or more lightweight composite support legs, a lightweight composite seat pan, and a lightweight composite seat back structure. The support legs are coupled to the seat pan, which is in turn coupled to the seat back structure. The support legs utilize composite frame elements that are formed as continuous compression molded composite extrusions. The seat pan includes composite fore and aft cross beams that are also formed as continuous compression molded composite extrusions. The aft cross beam includes a rear flange that serves as a flexible “hinge” for the seat back structure. The seat can leverage producible and relatively inexpensive composite manufacturing techniques such that the seat can be economically produced for use as an economy class seat.
US08205821B2 Engine propulsion system and methods of assembling the same
A method for exhausting gas from an aircraft engine assembly is provided. The method includes coupling a first exhaust duct in fluid communication only to a first engine. The first exhaust duct includes a primary outlet and a secondary outlet. The method further includes coupling a second exhaust duct in fluid communication only to a second engine. The second exhaust duct includes a primary outlet and a secondary outlet. The method also includes aligning a portion of the first engine secondary outlet concentrically within a portion of the second engine secondary outlet.
US08205817B2 Bead mill with separator
A bead mill for performing wet comminuting including a stationary vessel having an internal wall and forming a milling chamber to be filled at least partly with milling bodies, raw particles and a carrying liquid to form a suspension within the milling chamber; an activator shaft, rotatable around an axis concentric with the stationary vessel and a rotating activator connected to the activator shaft, to comminute said raw particles to produce milled particles; characterized in that said bead mill further comprises a separator, containing a separator chamber disposed substantially vertically, a laminarization portion providing an upward laminar suspension flow within the separator chamber, to separate the milled particles from the milling beads and raw particles depending on the flow velocity of said upward laminar suspension flow.
US08205812B2 Enclosures for multiple fluidic oscillators
An improved fluidic device that operates on a pressurized liquid flowing through it at a specified flow rate to generate an oscillating spray of liquid droplets having desired properties (e.g., average spatial distribution, size, velocity, frequency and wavelength of liquid droplets at a defined distance in front of the device) includes: (a) a plurality of fluidic oscillators, each having a channel that is part of a fluidic circuit for inducing oscillations in the pressurized liquid that flows through the oscillator, (b) a housing having an exterior surface that includes a front face with a center-point and a rear face, (c) a plurality of passages, each of which extends through the housing and intersects with its front face to define an outlet, with each passages configured to allow for the insertion of one of the plurality of fluidic oscillators into each of the plurality of passages, and (d) a geometrical arrangement of these outlets in the housing front face that is chosen so as to achieve the desired properties of the oscillating spray when the device is operating at its specified flow rate.
US08205810B2 Sanitary water outlet
A sanitary water outlet (1) having a conduit (4) at the discharge end. The conduit (4) is provided with at least one perforated plate (5) and/or a grid structure or lamellar structure with a number of discharge holes or discharge openings (7) which are bordered by flow guide walls (6). The water outlet is characterized in that it has a joint sleeve (2) which is adjustably or pivotally disposed in a socket (3) while the conduit (4) is provided inside the joint sleeve (2). The water outlet allows the water jet that is discharged from a water discharging plumbing fixture to be oriented as needed without requiring a ball-and-socket joint which uses a lot of space and may not be aesthetically appealing.
US08205805B2 Fuel injector assemblies having acoustical force modifiers and associated methods of use and manufacture
The present disclosure is directed to fuel injectors that provide efficient injection, ignition, and combustion of various types of fuels. One example of such an injector can include a sensor that detects one or more conditions in the combustion chamber. The injector can also include an acoustical force generator or modifier that is responsive to the sensor and can be configured to (a) induce vibrations in the fuel in the injector body and/or in the combustion chamber, (b) induce vibrations in air in the combustion chamber, (c) induce vibrations in a valve driver or other injector component to actuate a flow valve, and/or (d) control patterning of fuel injected into the combustion chamber.
US08205803B2 Device for fastening railway rails
The present invention relates to a fastening device (100) for fastening a railwayrail (10) onto a support (4), comprising a primary element (101) and a secondary element (102). The secondary element (102) corresponds to nut and bolt fasteners comprising at least one nut and one screw (9) with a screw body (82) and a screw head. The primary element (101) comprises at least one part (1,2) with an upper surface and lower surface, said part being crossed in its thickness by at least one aperture (80) able to receive said screw (9). Said aperture (80) is formed by a first recess (8) located on the upper surface of said part and intended for receiving the screw body and a second recess (8) located on the lower surface of said part and intended for receiving the screw head. According to the invention, the upper surface of the lower part is inclined according to a first slope (12) and the lower surface of the upper part is inclined according to a second slope (14), the first slope and the second slope being complementary. According to the invention, the upper part comprises means (81) for tilting the screw, said means located on the edges of the first recess.
US08205802B2 Premounted unit of a tube portion and a thermostat valve
A premounted unit includes a pipe stub and a thermostatic valve. The pipe stub includes a valve seat mechanically biased by a valve spring against the valve seat and resting at its other end against a mating rest element. The unit further includes an expansible element which is configured between a segment of the pipe stub and the valve member and which opens the thermostatic valve as a function of temperature against the force of the valve spring. The unit further includes a U-shaped retention yoke of which the central strip rests against the mating rest element and the legs are connected to an annular cap element thereby recesses being constituted at mutually opposite sides at the inside of the annular cap element and the legs of the retention yoke being fitted at its ends with outwardly pointing hook elements that engage the recesses.
US08205796B2 Transit security detection system
A method and system for processing exposure to an item of interest in a transit system is disclosed. Detectors are sensitive to the item of interest such as chemicals, biologic compound, radiation, nuclear, and/or explosives to produce detector or other information. A threat assessment value is determined periodically. The fare media is read for card information, which can be used in addition to detector or other information. The assessment value along with the card information, detector information and/or other information is used in determining if an action is taken, for example, if a user can pass a portal to get access to the transit system.
US08205795B2 Communication device, remote server, terminal device, financial card issue system, financial card authentication system, and program
A communication device, a remote server, a terminal device, a financial card issue system, a financial card authentication system, and a computer-readable storage medium for authenticating card information. In one embodiment, a communication device incorporates an IC chip. The communication device may be connected to a financial institution server and a remote server through a network. The communication device may include a card issue request portion for requesting the financial institution server to issue a first card; a card information write request portion for receiving first card information corresponding to the first card from the financial institution server and requesting the remote server to write the first card information; and a storage portion including a first individual area, a second individual area, and a common area.
US08205794B2 Wireless payment method and systems
A method for conducting a transaction is disclosed. The method includes using a first portable electronic device, and directly transmitting a request for payment to a second portable electronic device through a wireless link. Then, the second portable electronic device transmits an approval of the request for payment to the first portable electronic device. One of the first and the second portable electronic devices then sends the request for payment to a payment hub service. The payment hub service then facilitates the transfer of funds from a payer institution to a payee institution to complete the transaction.
US08205792B2 Method of authorizing automated banking machine use responsive to user data read from data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data read from data bearing records, such as user cards, to cause machine user authorization and financial transfers. Account data read from a user card is associated in a data store with instructions for displaying a customer interface uniquely associated with the particular bank where the user holds the account. The customer interface includes user-selectable financial transaction options. The arrangement enables the customer interface of the user's home bank, with which the user is familiar, to also be automatically displayed when the user operates automated banking machines of other banks.
US08205790B2 System and methods for customer-managed device-based authentication
A system and methods for customer-managed device-based authentication are disclosed. Embodiments of the invention provide a user interface that allows a customer with an on-line account to access and manage device fingerprint information that can be used to control or regulate the customer's access. Such a system can collect user input regarding device preferences related to specified devices to be used to access or to be prohibited or restricted from accessing an account. Information regarding these devices is stored in a database. The system can then assay a device fingerprint for a device to authenticate access by the device to the account based on the device preferences. In some embodiments, input can also be collected regarding alert preferences related to alerts connected with accessing the account from specified devices.
US08205789B2 System and process for handling, prepping, tagging and shipping plants
A plant handling, tagging and shipping system includes a flood trailer towed by a cart for delivering potted plants from a grow site to a prepping station while also soaking the pots, an on-demand tag-printing system for printing plant tags based on customized client data, and a conveyor system that enables workers to trim, weed, clean, and tag the plants as they travel along the conveyor. This novel system and process for handling, tagging and shipping plants provides enormous efficiencies as compared with traditional processes.
US08205785B2 Counter-rotating spindle for friction stir welding
A counter-rotating spindle includes a shoulder tool, a pin tool inserted in the shoulder tool, a first motor that is connected with the pin tool and rotates the pin tool, and a second motor that is connected with the shoulder tool and rotates the shoulder tool. The direction and the speed of the rotation for the pin tool may be selected independently from the speed and direction of rotation of the shoulder tool enabling optimization of the friction stir welding process. Counter-rotating the pin tool and the shoulder tool may improve the mixing abilities and efficiency of the pin tool and may prevent the galling effect between the pin tool and the shoulder tool. The counter-rotating spindle may be used, for example, for continuous path friction stir welding and spot welding of aluminum and its alloys, including cast alloys, as well as joining similar and dissimilar alloys.
US08205784B1 Systems and methods for joining metal
A metal joining system having a first burner assembly configured to selectively heat a first zone and an assembly support at least partially vertically lower than at least a portion of the first heat zone and a first hood vertically above at least a portion of the assembly support.
US08205783B2 Soldering apparatus
In a reflow soldering apparatus, when changing the operation mode from a production mode to a temperature profile mode, a warning-issue-time is set to a point of time (for example, several seconds) before the circuit board reaches an exit of the main body of the soldering apparatus to issue an alarm at this set time. A control unit thereof calculates a period of time when the alarm issues based on the set warning-issue-time before circuit-board-discharge and the like. After a sensor of entrance side has detected that the circuit board enters into main body of the reflow soldering apparatus, the control unit determines whether or not the starting time of the alarm sound has been elapsed. The control unit controls the information unit to sound the alarm when the control unit determines that the starting time of the warning issue has elapsed.
US08205778B2 Nailing device adapted for nail units of different sizes
A nailing device of the present invention mainly includes a main body, a striker, an actuator, a resilient member, a nail slot, a magazine, a guider, an adjuster and a controlling means. The magazine has a main rail and a sub rail parallel to the main rail, and the main rail is substantially as tall as the sub rail. The adjuster has a protrusive portion having a guiding surface facing the magazine. The guiding surface is vertically formed with two parallel longitudinal grooves and has a bottom end. The longitudinal grooves extend toward the bottom end. The controlling means is for selectively pushing the adjuster to flush the guiding surface with a step surface of the guider.
US08205777B2 Fuel, gas, combustion type power tool driven by the fuel gas, and compressed gas container for the combustion type power tool
A fuel gas has a gas including at least 40 weight % or more of 1-butene and propane, or at least 56 weight % or more of 1-butene and propylene. A combustion type power tool is driven by the fuel gas. A compressed gas container for a combustion type power tool has an inner side vessel filled with the fuel gas. When the fuel gas includes propane, 1-butene may be equal to or higher than 59 weight % and equal to or lower than 95 weight %. When the fuel gas includes propylene, the 1-butene may be equal to or higher than 70 weight % and equal to or lower than 96 weight %.
US08205776B2 Dual function clip device for an electronic device having a screen
A dual function clip device for an electronic device having a screen has a body for receiving the electronic device, a clip mechanism with an arm movable relative to the body, and a viewing position support mechanism. The arm is pivotally movable about an axis in a first longitudinal position. The arm and its pivot axis is also movable longitudinally along a longitudinal axis of the device to at least one second longitudinal position where it may pivot open about the pivot axis. When the arm is open in the second longitudinal and open pivoted position, the clip device may be positioned to engage an upwardly facing flat surface so that the electronic device may be oriented to a viewing position to display its screen. A release lock and securement device are used for retaining the arm and for viewing position support. A method for displaying the screen is also described.
US08205772B2 Dispenser
A dispenser for fluid to pasty masses has a pump chamber that has an outlet valve. The pump chamber consists of an upper pump chamber part and a lower pump chamber part, which can be moved, relative to one another, for a pumping process. In order to prevent unintentional exit of mass under certain stresses such as severe vibrations, the outlet valve is moved into a release position before the beginning of a pumping process, by means of a control part.
US08205771B2 Dispenser and self-piercing lid for dispensing pumpable products
The presently disclosed subject matter comprises a pouch to house a pumpable product, a pouch fitment sealed within or outside the pouch, and a rigid dispenser for containing the pouch and fitment. In some embodiments, the system can further comprise a pump operatively connected to the rigid dispenser to dispense the pouch contents. The rigid dispenser is advantageously configured with a raised segment to support, center, and elevate the fitment sealed within said pouch.
US08205769B1 Compartmented dispensing container
A container for storing and dispensing consumable products. Modular construction is utilized wherein there is one base container and at least one subcontainer mounted above the base container. The base container has a floor, a peripheral wall, and a cover panel. Each subcontainer has a peripheral wall and a cover panel, and is coupled to a container below, such as the base container or another subcontainer, in stacked fashion. The cover panel of that container immediately below forms the floor of the container above, thereby obviating the necessity of forming a floor in each container. Each container may have a closure to enable contents to be withdrawn therefrom. The various containers are coupled together to form a stack by a removable band. When contents of the uppermost container are depleted, the empty container is removed from the stack to reveal the next container.
US08205768B2 Container lid and associated assembly
A lid and container assembly includes a container having a rim portion that defines a container opening, and a lid having (i) a cover portion positioned over the container opening, and (ii) a skirt extending from the cover portion and positioned circumferentially around the rim portion. The skirt defines an interior facing surface and an exterior facing surface. The skirt includes a sealing band extending from the interior facing surface positioned in contact with the rim portion. The sealing band defines a vertex along the extent of the sealing band. The vertex possesses (i) a first height at a first circumferential position of the sealing band, and (ii) a second height at a second circumferential position of the sealing band. The second height is greater than the first height. Height of the vertex asymptotically increases as the sealing band extends from the first circumferential position to the second circumferential position.
US08205765B2 Gas absorption reservoir with optimized cooling
The invention relates to a fuel reservoir for gaseous fuel in a vehicle, in particular a sorption reservoir. The fuel reservoir is delimited by at least one wall and includes a sorption material that is contained in its interior. The fuel reservoir has a tank inlet valve containing a shut-off valve and a throttle restriction valve. The restriction of the gaseous fuel takes place inside the fuel reservoir.
US08205761B2 Lightweight child-resistant closure
A child-resistant container closure includes a base cap having a top, a skirt, and a plurality of asymmetric teeth recessed in the skirt below the top, and a cover cap having a top, a skirt, and a plurality of asymmetric downwardly extending teeth adjacent to the skirt, the teeth being adapted for asymmetric engagement with the base cap teeth, the skirt having a plurality of interspersed vertical legs each spaced apart from adjacent legs by vertical openings, the legs being joined at a bottom end of the skirt by a support ring, the base cap teeth each having a sloped sliding face to ensure that one of the cover cap teeth will drop into a notch between adjacent base cap teeth when the cover cap is rotated in one direction.
US08205760B2 Curved curtain rod
A curved curtain rod formed by a curved telescopic rod and two fixing bases is revealed. The curved telescopic rod is formed by two curved tubes sleeved with each other while each end of the curved telescopic rod is connected to each fixing base respectively. The fixing base includes a pivotal base having a hollow cylinder mounted with a buffer part therein, a pivotal part whose one end is moveable and connected to the buffer part while the other end is a projecting rod connected to the telescopic rod, and a cover with a central opening covered around the pivotal base. One end of the pivotal part is limited in an inner side of the central opening while the projecting rod passes through the central opening to the outer side, moves and pivots so as to adjust the angle between the telescopic rod and the fixing base.
US08205759B2 Product display shelf with compliant member
A product display shelf comprising a bottom surface, a rear surface and at least one compliant member is disclosed. The bottom surface is configured to support at least one product thereon. The rear surface extends upwardly from the bottom surface. The at least one compliant member is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the rear surface and is configured to substantially prevent the product supported by the bottom surface from movement relative to the bottom surface upon movement of the product display shelf.
US08205756B2 Hydrocyclone
A hydrocyclone (1) for separating a liquid mixture into a heavy fraction and a light fraction, comprising a housing (2) forming an elongated separation chamber (3) having a circumferential wall (4), a base end (5), an apex end (6), means (10) for supplying the liquid mixture to the separation chamber (3) via the at least one inlet member (7), so that during operation a liquid stream is generated as a helical vortex (11) about a centre axis (12), at least one path (13) in the circumferential wall (4) at least over a portion of the separation chamber (3), and at least one means for creating turbulence, which comprises at least one step (14) in the path (13) of the circumferential wall (4) showing an increase of the radius of the separation chamber (3), wherein the at least one step (14) having an angle (α) relative the centre axis (12).
US08205755B2 Filter media
Aspects of the present disclosure provide composite carbon blocks with improved capacity for the removal of contaminants such as THMs (trihalomethanes) and trace VOCs (volatile organic compounds) found in water. In one aspect, a filtration matrix comprises a polymeric binder and an adsorptive media comprising activated carbon having a bulk density of 0.54 (0.57, or even 0.60) g/cc or greater. The carbon BET surface area can be 1100 (950, or even 550) m2/g or less. The polymeric binder can be ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. Also provided are methods of making filtration matrixes.
US08205747B2 Display pack and packaging method and apparatus
A display pack for a consumer product is made of two sheets of corrugated cardboard and a clear plastic container with a flat insertion portion sandwiched between the cardboard sheets. The two cardboard sheets are adhered together in a peripheral area of the package by a heat-sensitive adhesive, and the corrugations of the cardboard sheets are crushed and flattened in the peripheral area. To seal the package, the peripheral area of the two cardboard sheets is subject to sufficient pressure to crush the corrugations inside the cardboard sheets and flatten them in that area. Heat is applied to the outer side of the cardboard sheets in the peripheral area and conducted to the adhesive material between the two sheets to activate the adhesive material. A sealer machine with a heated sealing press or parallel sets of heated rollers may be used to carry out the sealing process.
US08205743B2 Carrier and method for transporting a container
A carrier for transporting at least one container along a conveying path, has a base that can be placed on a conveyor surface of the conveying path, and at least one retaining plate for retaining the container at least during transport. The container has a lower region and a head region on the top, and the retaining plate is configured and disposed in the carrier for engaging at the head region of the suspended container. The container is inserted into the carrier such that it is supported at the head region of the carrier and is retained during transport in a suspended manner.
US08205735B2 Monitoring handrails to reduce falls
A monitor, which may be closely associated with a handrail, may determine the amount of force applied to the handrail. The monitor may also determine the pattern in which force is applied to the handrail in order to assess how the user is contacting the handrail. The user's application of force to the handrail can be monitored along the course of movement along the handrail and may be compared to historical usage patterns.
US08205734B2 Friction disk for a wet-running clutch for a motor vehicle
A friction disk for a wet-running clutch for a motor vehicle includes a lining carrier ring, provided with connecting areas for connecting the friction disk to a drive side or to a takeoff side of a clutch, and a plurality of friction lining elements, carried on at least one side of the lining carrier ring, fluid flow channels are provided between the friction lining elements which are directly adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction, wherein at least some of the fluid flow channels have different channel widths.
US08205731B2 Lockup device, and fluid-type torque transmission device equipped with same
A lockup device 5 of a torque converter 1 has a piston 51, a first plate 61, a second plate 62, a intermediate plate 63, a plurality of first springs 64, and a plurality of second springs 65. The intermediate plate 63 is provided so as to be able to rotate with respect to the piston 51 within a specific angular range. The second springs 65 are disposed more to the outside in the radial direction than the first springs 64 so as to act in series with the first springs 64 via the intermediate plate 63, and are supported by the intermediate plate 63 so as to be elastically deformable in the rotation direction. The driven plate 68 has prongs 68a that can come into contact with the ends of the second springs 65, and is fixed to the outer peripheral part of the turbine 4.
US08205722B2 Method and system for dividing destination calls in elevator system
In an elevator system including at least two elevator groups having at least one shared floor and destination call appliances on at least the shared floor for receiving destination calls from passengers, destination call appliances are connected to group controls of the elevator groups. Destination calls from passengers are divided between the elevator groups based on defined division criteria.
US08205720B2 Method for installing the hoisting roping of an elevator
A method for installing the hoisting roping of an elevator, the elevator including at least an elevator car that moves in essentially a vertical direction in the elevator hoistway, a hoisting machine, a traction sheave, and at least a plurality of diverting pulleys includes fitting a plurality of hoisting ropes to pass around a plurality of diverting pulleys as well as the traction sheave, the hoisting ropes, after the installation, forming the hoisting roping of the elevator. Each hoisting rope is guided to pass around each diverting pulley and/or the traction sheave such that a loop is formed from the part between the first and second end of the hoisting rope, the loop being fitted to pass around the diverting pulley and/or the traction sheave.
US08205707B2 Arrangement structure of inclination angle sensor
In a vehicle of a type which does not bank a vehicle body at the time of turning, an inclination angle sensor is provided which receives the least influence of a centrifugal force at the time of turning. In a four-wheeled buggy that includes a vehicle body frame, four longitudinal wheels including front wheels and rear wheels are provided together with an engine, a fuel tank and a fuel pump. A steering shaft is connected to a steering handle with an inclination angle sensor arranged above a seat and being positioned in front of the steering shaft. Accordingly, the inclination angle sensor is hardly influenced by a centrifugal force at the time of turning.
US08205694B2 Method of generating a propagation gait for a robot
The method and apparatus consist of a robot body having at least two, but preferably six appendages. The appendages are organized into appendage groups of one to six appendages. The appendages are linked mechanically into groups of two or more and each group is actuated using a single drive actuator. A selective engagement mechanism is used to selectively engaged and disengage one or more appendages at a time in a way that allows for at least one appendage and at most all but one appendage per group to be engaged to a group's drive actuator. When the appendage is disengaged it is preferably locked in place to resist a reasonable force applied to them externally, such as the force equivalent to the weight of the robot.
US08205693B2 Casing and liner drilling shoes having selected profile geometries, and related methods
A casing bit, which may comprise a composite structure, for drilling a casing section into a subterranean formation, and which may include a portion configured to be drilled therethrough. Cutting elements and methods of use may be included. Adhesive, solder, electrically disbonding material, and braze affixation of a cutting element may be included. Differing abrasive material amount, characteristics, and size of cutting elements may be included. Telescoping casing sections and bits may be included. Embodiments may include: at least one gage section extending from the nose portion, at least one rotationally trailing groove formed in at least one of the plurality of blades, a movable blade, a leading face comprising superabrasive material, at least one of a drilling fluid nozzle and a sleeve, grooves for preferential failure, at least one rolling cone affixed to the nose portion, at least one sensor, discrete cutting element retention structures, and percussion inserts.
US08205691B2 Downhole vibration dampener
A down hole vibration dampener is disclosed that uses a set of polyurethane rings and steel support rings to create a shock absorber within the drill string to reduce the amount of vibration in the drill string. A splined mandrel extends longitudinally within a hollow cylindrical housing. A seal structure present between the exterior of the mandrel and the interior of the housing forms a lubricant receiving chamber. The series of polyurethane and steel rings are located in the lubricant chamber and are compressible longitudinally to absorb vibration and shock loads.
US08205690B2 Dual acting locking jar
A double action locking jar is operable to provide a jarring force in an upward or downward direction. A pair of pressure pistons form a pressure chamber in which a Belleville spring stack is located. A metering orifice in one of the pistons serves to provide a delay mechanism for release of a mandrel within the housing. Two collets are located within the housing for mechanically releasing the mandrel when a tension or compression force is applied to the mandrel. The jar may be mechanically actuated only by allowing the pistons to freely move within the housing without hydraulic resistance.
US08205682B2 Rotary switch
A rotary switch for shifting a switch element is disclosed. The switch includes a twist handle, a torsion spring, a rotatable actuating element and a common axis. The twist handle, the torsion spring and the rotatable actuating element are supported so as to be rotatable about the common axis. The twist handle and the rotatable actuating element are coupled with each other by the torsion spring in such a manner that a twisting of the twist handle relative to the rotatable actuating element twists the torsion spring. An eccentric is provided on the rotatable actuating element in order to convert a rotary motion of the rotatable actuating element into a shifting motion of the switch element.
US08205679B2 Method for efficient deployment of intelligent completions
A technique enables efficient deployment of instrumentation gauges in a wellbore. The technique comprises preparing offline a plurality of assemblies having a combined packer and gauge mandrel with an associated gauge. Each assembly is combined with a segment or length of instrumentation cable that is fully spliced with the gauge during offline assembly time. Various splice halves also can be assembled during offline assembly time.
US08205678B1 Blowout preventer with a Bernoulli effect suck-down valve
The present invention is a blowout preventer including a large frustoconical funnel, made of metal or other material. The large end of the funnel is placed over a well pipe (or other pipe) through which oil (or gas or other fluid) is blowing out. The small end of the funnel is connected to a return pipe. A high pressure pipe with a smaller diameter is inserted into the well pipe. Air is pumped under high pressure through the high pressure pipe, separating the oil and forcing the oil that is not kept down in the well pipe by the pressure up through the return pipe. The Bernoulli effect keeps the funnel on the well pipe. A gasket at the top end of the channel prevents leaks. Channels and rotating blades near the top of the funnel accelerate the flow, reducing pressure and increasing the suction due to the Bernoulli effect.
US08205676B2 Water well cleaning apparatus and method
A method and system for cleaning the perforations of well casings employs a non-rotating tubing string attached to a hydraulic jet carrier body. The carrier body has outwardly extending arms which terminate in spray nozzles, each of the nozzles expelling a stream of fluid under pressure against the well casing with an inertial force. The nozzles are oriented on the carrier body such that the reactive force for each jet is directionally offset with respect to the central axis of the carrier, thereby creating a twisting moment tending to rotate the carrier body about its central axis. The nozzles are located a fixed distance from the carrier body which is between about ½ and 1½ inches from the well casing perforations in use.
US08205674B2 Apparatus, system, and method for in-situ extraction of hydrocarbons
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for in-situ extraction of hydrocarbons from a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. The system includes a well drilled through a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, and a completion unit that places an injection tube near a fluid injection point near the bottom of a target zone and a production tube near a fluid production point near the top of the target zone. An isolation unit isolates the fluid injection point from the fluid production point such that injected fluid flows through the target zone. The system further includes a heat source, and a fluid that delivers thermal energy from the heat source to the hydrocarbons in the target zone to entrain the hydrocarbons in the fluid. The resulting production fluid is heated, free hydrogen is added, and the production fluid is treated on a catalytic reactor to reduce the size of the hydrocarbon chains.
US08205671B1 Downhole bridge plug or packer assemblies
A bridge plug or packer assembly includes a mandrel; at least one sealing element provided on the mandrel; a pair of backup rings each having a plurality of spiral ring grooves provided on the mandrel on respective sides of the at least one sealing element; and a pair of pressure-applying elements provided on the mandrel on respective sides of the pair of backup rings, respectively.
US08205670B2 Metal annulus seal
A wellhead seal assembly forms a metal-to-metal seal between inner and outer wellhead members. A metal seal ring has inner and outer walls separated by a slot. An energizing ring has a C-ring captured on its outer surface. When the energizing ring is moved further into the slot, the C-ring is forced from its pocket and engages a profile on the seal ring, locking the energizing ring to the seal assembly.
US08205667B2 Heat exchanger with connector
A heat exchanger includes a plurality of tubes, a header tank coupled to the plurality of tubes, and a connector coupled to the header tank. The connector includes a female joint part that is to be coupled to a male joint part of an external pipe and a tubular part that extends from the female joint part and has a closed end on a side opposite to the female joint part. The connector is coupled to the header tank such that a side wall of the tubular part is located on an outer periphery of the header tank.
US08205664B2 Combination heat sink
A combination heat sink form of a stack of radiation fins is disclosed. Each radiation fin has retaining flanges at two opposite lateral sides for securing another radiation fin. Each retaining flange has a bottom neck perpendicularly extending from the respective radiation fin, two pairs of vertically spaced retaining fingers respectively extending from two opposite lateral sides of the bottom neck in a parallel manner relative to the respective radiation fin for securing another radiation fin, a top retaining notch defined between the two pairs of vertically spaced retaining fingers above the bottom neck for accommodating the bottom neck of another radiation fin, and a retaining gap defined between each two vertically spaced retaining fingers for receiving another radiation fin.
US08205660B2 Device for transferring continuous casting slabs
A device for transferring continuous cast slabs arranged parallel to and equidistant from one another to an individual production line arranged in extension of one of the continuous casting strands, wherein the cycle time for transferring and conveying the slabs is to be reduced. This is achieved by a ferry which is movable transversely by steps between the ends of the continuous casting strands and the start of the production line and which has berths serving for receiving and delivering the slabs substantially simultaneously.
US08205658B1 Operating device for rotating a winding roller of a window blind
An operating device for rotating a winding roller of a window blind, includes an upright rotating shaft rotatable to cause rotation of the winding roller and having thread segments, a sleeve shell surrounding the rotating shaft, upper and lower coupling members anchored on the sleeve shell and each having grip ends and cammed surfaces confronting the thread segments and the sleeve shell, and an actuating member having a camming surfaces disposed to be moved upward or downward to make an upper or lower friction engagements between the upper coupling member and rotating shaft, and between the lower coupling member and the rotating shaft for rotating the rotating shaft.
US08205657B2 Covering and component parts thereof
An architectural covering arrangement having two side rails for mounting in parallel either side of a window pane and at least one movable end rail for mounting perpendicular to the side rails and extending from one side rail to the other side rail, the side rails having on respective faces to be mounted on a window pane, a two-layer fastening structure with one of the layers adhered to the respective side rail and the other of the two layers to be adhered to the window pane, the two layers being freely attachable and detachable from one another.
US08205651B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire according to the present invention improves wet performance.The pneumatic tire has a tread surface 1. A first main groove 2 extending in the circumferential direction TC of the tire is provided in the tread surface 1. First lateral grooves 7 extending from the first main groove 2 outward in the widthwise direction of the tire beyond one ground contact end TX1 of the tire are disposed at prescribed intervals in the circumferential direction TC of the tire. Blocks 8 are defined by the first main groove 2 and the first lateral grooves 7. The first lateral grooves 7 comprise inner groove portions 7A and outer groove portions 7B. The inner groove portions 7A extend with their widths gradually increasing from the first main groove 2 outward in the widthwise direction of the tire to midways of the first lateral grooves 7. The outer groove portions 7B extend with their widths gradually decreasing from the gradually increasing inner groove portions 7A outward in the widthwise direction of the tire beyond the one ground contact end TX1 of the tire. A circumferential narrow groove 5 which extends in the circumferential direction TC of the tire and is less in width than the first main groove 2 is disposed at boundary positions between the inner groove portions 7A and the outer groove portions 7B.
US08205650B2 Clamping assembly for woodworking knife
A clamping assembly to hold a woodworking knife in place in a woodworking machine. The clamping assembly comprises a clamping component comprising a body and an actuator. The body has three discrete contact positions distributed thereon: 1) a fulcrum located generally at one end, 2) a knife abutting portion located generally at the other end, and 3) a bearing surface located elsewhere. The actuator is for applying a clamping force to the body along a clamping axis located intermediate of the knife abutting portion and the fulcrum. The fulcrum is a surface having a normal that is at an angle to the clamping axis. The bearing surface is a surface wherein a line normal to the bearing surface intersects the line normal to the fulcrum at a position outside of the clamping component at a location farther askew of the clamping axis than the fulcrum.
US08205649B2 Cutter assembly and electric pencil sharpener
A cutter assembly for an electric pencil sharpener has a cutter bracket and a cutter. The cutter bracket has a pencil sharpening hole and an engaging structure. The pencil sharpening hole is defined in the cutter bracket for a pencil to be inserted into the pencil sharpening hole. The engaging structure is formed on the cutter bracket to engage a rotating frame in the electric pencil sharpener. The cutter is mounted rotatably on the cutter bracket. Accordingly, the cutter assembly is replaceable for the electric pencil sharpener when the cutter of the cutter assembly is damaged or worn.
US08205648B2 Electronic pencil sharpener
An electric pencil sharpener includes a housing unit having an opening, a driving member driven by a motor, a cutting unit, and a panel unit. The cutting unit includes an outer frame mounted removably in the housing unit and including a ring gear, an inner frame disposed pivotally within the outer frame, and at least one cutting member disposed pivotally on the inner frame. The inner frame has a driven portion connected co-rotatably and removably to the driving member, and a cutting groove. The cutting member has a blade portion adjacent to the cutting groove, and a planetary gear portion meshing with the ring gear. The panel unit is mounted removably to the housing unit for covering the opening, and has a pencil-feeding hole. When the panel unit is removed from the housing unit, the cutting unit can be taken out of the housing unit through the opening.
US08205646B2 Powder filling apparatus, powder filling method and process cartridge
A powder filling apparatus and a powder filling method which enable powder to be densely filled in a short period of time is to be provided. This is a powder filling apparatus having a pressure hopper wherein the pressure hopper has a discharger for discharging powder and a gas inlet positioned above at least the surface of a powder layer formed by the powder in the pressure hopper; the powder layer is so formed as to blockade the discharger in the pressure hopper; in the powder filling apparatus, the inside of the pressure hopper is pressurized by leading in gas through the gas inlet in a state in which the discharger is closed, and the powder layer so formed as to blockade the discharger is discharged by opening the discharger after the pressurization thereby to utilize that pressure to load the powder into the filling container.
US08205643B2 Multi-tubular fluid transfer conduit
A fluid transfer system having improved stress accommodation properties and thermal insulation properties is provided. The fluid transfer system includes a fluid transfer conduit comprising a plurality of concentric tubes configured to divide and distribute an axial stress induced in the fluid transfer conduit to each of the tubes and a vacuum cavity between the fluid transfer conduit and a structural support of the fluid transfer system to insulate fluid from a surrounding environment.
US08205637B2 Flow-actuated actuator and method
A flow-actuated actuator includes a plurality of rings positionable within a structure, each ring having a full bore therethrough, and a plurality of elongated members in operable communication with the plurality of rings providing orientation of each ring to at least one adjacent ring. The plurality of rings and the plurality of elongated members are configured to generate an urging force in response to fluid flow thereby.
US08205632B2 Fluid flow control device
A fluid flow control device such as a volume booster has an inlet, an outlet and an exhaust port all for an operating fluid. A pilot inlet receives a pilot pressure signal which operates a valve stem actuator via a diaphragm assembly. The valve stem is operable to open a supply valve between the inlet and outlet and, separately and independently, to open an exhaust valve disposed between the outlet and the exhaust. In a further position both the valves are closed. Movement of the stem in a reciprocal manner by the diaphragm assembly causes a respective annular shoulder to engage a respective valve and lift it off a valve seat against the force of a biasing spring. A first fluid leak path is provided between the valve stem and the supply valve for allowing fluid to leak through the supply valve chamber when the supply valve is open and a second fluid leak path is defined by the exhaust valve for allowing fluid to leak through the exhaust valve chamber. The leak paths provide for a force balancing arrangement that allows the valve stem to move easily and the diaphragm assembly to be reduced in size. The arrangement allows the exhaust port to be positioned on the same side of the diaphragm assembly as the inlet and outlet so that fluid can be vented through the exhaust at flow volume comparative to the operating fluid flow in the inlet and outlet.
US08205629B2 Real time lead-line characterization for MFC flow verification
A method and apparatus that solve the problem of accurate measurement of gas flow so that the delivery of gases in semiconductor processing may be performed with greater confidence and accuracy by performing real-time characterization of a lead-line for mass flow controller (MFC) flow verification are provided. In one embodiment a mass flow verifier (MFV) provides rate of rise information to a controller via a digital interface without correcting for lead-line influences. After receiving the rate of rise data, the tool host computer computes a gas mass correction factor in real-time based on at least one of the following: MFC temperature sensor data, lead-line temperature sensor data, lead-line pressure transducer data, and lead-line volume. The rate of rise data and gas mass correction factor are used to compute accurate mass flow. The accurate mass flow information may be used to calibrate the MFC.
US08205628B2 Portable barrier having protection mode and storage mode
A portable barrier includes a pedestal assembly and a cover assembly. The pedestal assembly includes (i) a plurality of legs that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of legs include a first lateral leg having a first free leg end, and a second lateral leg having a second free leg end, and (ii) a first limiter connected to the first lateral leg and the second lateral leg. The cover assembly including (i) a plurality of arms that are movable with respect to each other, the plurality of arms include a first lateral arm having a first free arm end and a second lateral arm having a second free arm end, and (ii) a covering connected to the first lateral arm and the second lateral arm. The portable barrier is configured to be moved between a protection mode and a storage mode.
US08205626B2 Tree stand cover
The present device protects a tree stand attached to a tree comprising a fabric member having a first and mating edges. The first edge includes a channel and the mating edge is divided into three sections. The first and third sections are parallel to the tree and the second section is disposed between the first and third sections. Further, the second section includes a channel. The fabric member is configured to cover a portion of the tree stand with the mating edge against the tree. The device includes two securing members each having connectable ends. A portion of the first securing member is disposed within the first channel and a portion of the second securing member is disposed with the second channel. Additionally, the device includes a connecting member having a first end that engages the first securing member and a second end that engages the second securing member.
US08205623B2 Coatings for personal grooming apparatus containing calcium carbonate derived from mollusk shells or pearls
This disclosure relates to personal grooming apparatus that include coatings on the surface thereof that incorporate calcium carbonate derived from the shell of a mollusk and/or from a mollusk pearl. Other aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods for producing such apparatus, and methods of grooming the hair or skin of an individual.
US08205622B2 Electronic cigarette
An electronic cigarette has two tubes that resemble a cigarette: an electronic inhaler and an electronic atomizer. The two tubes are connected through one or more electric connectors to form an electronic cigarette. Inside the inhaler is a rechargeable or non-rechargeable power source such as a battery, which supplies electric power to the electronic inhaler and atomizer and ensures that both work together like a cigarette. In addition to the power source, the inhaler also includes other major components: an electric airflow sensor to detect air movement generated by a user's inhaling or puffing act and a Single Chip Micyoco which controls the atomization process. The sensor's role is to collect an airflow signal that triggers the Single Chip Micyoco, which in turn instructs the electronic cigarette to supply electric power to the inhaler and atomizer connected through an electric connector. Inside the electronic atomizer are an electric connector, electric heating wire, liquid container, and atomizer cap with an air-puffing hole. The user inhales through the air-puffing hole at an end of the electronic cigarette to create an air inflow, which triggers the atomization process. The Single Chip Micyoco driven by a software program controls the electronic cigarette in an on/off manner according to the signal detected by the electric sensor on the airflow and completes a cycle of atomization, which converts a solution of a liquid form inside the liquid container to a gas form. This entire process achieves the emulated smoking process of a user, who is satisfied with scent taste that mimics cigarette smoking.
US08205621B1 Smoking device for aiding cessation of smoking
A smoking device configured for controlling smoke/ambient air ratio for use by a user, the smoking device comprising a cigarette holder having a first passage, wherein the first passage includes a receiver portion and an exit portion. The smoking device further comprises a mouthpiece having a second passage and a third passage, wherein the first passage is fluidly connected to the second passage at the exit portion of the first passage. The third passage is normally unenclosed when not in use and becomes enclosed as a result of cooperation between the mouthpiece and a user's mouth and smoke generated from said cigarette is configured to be drawn through the first and second passages at a first flowrate and ambient air is configured to be drawn through the third passage at a second flowrate, into the user's mouth.
US08205618B2 Mouthguard
The present invention is a mouthguard to be used in sports to protect the mouth and teeth from blows to the face and head. The mouthguard has a three layer laminate construction and is fabricated from thermoplastic material that may be softened in hot water to enable a user to form it to the contours of his or her mouth. The mouthguard is formed from an upper portion shaped into a channel with holes distributed on the channel floor and a lower platform with posts aligned to fit into the holes. A part of the posts extend from the upper portion to the platform to form gaps between the upper portion and the platform with the gaps acting as air cushions. In one embodiment, a strap is attached to the assembled mouthguard.
US08205614B2 Delivery device
A delivery device, e.g. an inhaler, includes a rotatable metering member adapted to dispense a measured amount of material, a material delivery passage and a material delivery orifice and at least one actuator member adapted to move the metering member from a material retaining position to a material dispensing position. In a magazine including a plurality of metering members, the actuator and metering members may operate in a radial direction. A plurality of rotatable magazines may be utilized in the delivery device. The delivery device may be used to deliver a single or a combination therapy.
US08205609B2 Solar heat absorbing window
A window with an integral solar heat-absorber is provided in a compact, low-cost package. Two transparent panes are separated from one another to provide a first passageway for receiving a working fluid. The periphery of the panes is secured in a frame in which a heat exchanger is also secured, the heat exchanger having a second passageway for the working fluid and a third passageway for a service fluid. The first and second passageways are coupled to make a working fluid circuit.
US08205600B2 Apparatus and system for the production of ozone for an internal combustion engine
An apparatus for the production of ozone for an internal combustion engine comprising a non-conductive shell having a first and second opening which allows air to flow therethrough and first and second electrodes disposed inside the shell. The first electrode is spaced a distance from the second electrode, the first electrode having a smaller diameter than, and being aligned axially within the second electrode. The first electrode permits air to flow therethrough. A high voltage source is connected to the first and second electrode, the high voltage source capable of producing a voltage differential on the first and second electrodes sufficient to cause the production of ozone. A change from oxygen to ozone occurs in the air flowing through the apparatus. The shell is preferably cylindrical.
US08205595B2 Control device for internal combustion engine
The object of the present invention is to provide an internal combustion engine control apparatus which can control an internal combustion engine output with a high accuracy even when an internal combustion engine output lower than an unloaded idling equivalent output is demanded. The internal combustion engine of the present invention has an accessory such as a generator driven through an output axis of the engine, an ECU for totally controlling the engine and accessory, and an accessory driving control section for controlling the driving of the accessory. The ECU calculates a target engine output according to a demand from a driver or the like and, when the target engine output is lower than the unloaded idling equivalent output, sends a control signal to the accessory driving control section 16 so as to increase the load of the accessory and further make the idle-up amount zero. When the target engine output is not lower than the unloaded idling equivalent output, an idle-up amount corresponding to the load of the accessory is determined. Then, the idle-up amount of output is added to the target engine output, and the engine device is controlled according to thus calculated value.
US08205587B2 Internal combustion engine with variable valve gear
In an engine with a cam phase change mechanism which is disposed on one end portion of an intake camshaft and variably changes a phase of a drive cam of an intake valve relative to a crankshaft, the cam phase change mechanism is configured so that two vane-type hydraulic actuators of which variable-phase torques produced at the same supplied oil pressure are different are arranged axially relative to the intake camshaft.
US08205584B2 Control device for variable valve mechanism
A brushless motor of a variable valve mechanism varies a actuation parameter of an intake valve of an engine. A position sensor outputs a pulse signal when the brushless motor rotates. A position counter calculates a counter value by counting edges of the pulse signal. A motor control device obtains a detection value of a motor rotational angle based on the counter value when the motor control device is in a powered state. An engine control device determines that the detection value of the motor rotational angle is displaced from the actual value when the engine control device detects that the engine is operating and the motor control device portion is in a non-powered state.
US08205583B2 Cylinder charge temperature control for an internal combustion engine
A method is disclosed for operating an engine with a first cylinder providing a net flow of gases from the intake to the exhaust while combusting; and a second cylinder providing a net flow of gases from the exhaust to the intake. Both the first and second cylinders may carry out combustion during such operation.
US08205582B2 Exhaust check valve and piston return system
An exhaust check valve and piston return system wherein a main exhaust valve is opened as a result of combustion products from the combustion chamber being routed through a signal line. In addition, as a result of the opening of the main exhaust valve, an exhaust check valve, incorporated within a side wall portion of the cylinder housing at a location disposed downstream of the main exhaust valve, as considered in the direction of flow of the exhaust gases out from the combustion chamber, is forced to its open position so as to permit the combustion gases to be exhausted from the combustion chamber, thereby permitting the piston to move upwardly so as to complete its return stroke.
US08205579B2 Stay-along lead for guiding individuals
The invention provides a new tether or leash product in the form of a guide assembly that provides an alternative to wrist cuffs and harnesses that physically bind a dependent individual. The guide assembly, or tether system, allows a dependent individual to engage a security grip or handle in the shape of a character or other appealing design. The security grip is removably attached to a tether, lead, line, or other extension device that ultimately connects to another individual, such as a parent or a caregiver. The dependent individual is trained to engage the security grip by removing the security grip from the lead portion of the guide assembly and enjoying the security grip as a separate toy. By developing an affinity for the security grip, the dependent individual desirably engages the security grip when in use with the guide assembly.
US08205575B2 Particulate collector for liquid containment system
A particulate collector configured to engage a container proximate to the container perimeter and which can disengage from the perimeter of the container to collect particulate accumulated in an amount liquid in the container.
US08205573B2 Rotary parlour for automatic milking of animals and a method for attaching teat cups to milking animals on a rotary platform
A rotary parlour for milking of animals includes an annular rotary platform (20) adapted to form a support surface (18) for the animals (22), positioning elements (19, 23) for arranging the animals (1) in milking positions on the platform (20), a drive mechanism (30) adapted to supply a rotational motion to the platform (20), and teat cup storing devices (11) for holding parked teat cups (2, 2′) in predetermined storing positions. The teat cup storing devices (11) are mounted in positions such that the teat cups (2, 2′) are located vertically above the platform (20) in their storing positions.
US08205572B2 Vacuum treatment installation for the production of a disk-shaped workpiece based on a dielectric substrate
A vacuum treatment installation has a vacuum receptacle with a first planar metallic electrode face, a second dielectric electrode face facing the first planar metallic electrode face which forms a surface of a dielectric areal configuration, a metallic coupling face facing a backside of the areal configuration, electric connections on the coupling and on the first electrode face, a gas line system through the coupling face and an areal distributed pattern of apertures through the areal configuration and wherein the areal dielectric configuration is formed by several ceramic tiles.
US08205571B1 Boat having a tower
A boat has a hull and a deck is disposed on the hull. A tower is connected to the deck. The tower has a top. The top has at least one storage compartment defined therein. A canopy is connected to the top, the canopy has at least one frame member and a canvas connected to the at least one frame member. The canopy has an extended position and a retracted position. The canvas and the at least one frame member are disposed at least in part in the storage compartment of the top when the canopy is in the retracted position. A boat having a tower with a top and a canopy attached thereto is also disclosed where the tower is movable between a first position and a second position.
US08205568B2 Workboat for lifting and transporting waterborne items
A workboat comprises a floatable body having a bow and a stern, a mast having at least two rails mounted at the bow, a carriage that is movable longitudinally along the rails of the mast, and at least two forks extending outwardly from the carriage for lifting items in the water.
US08205566B2 Single disc liquid fertilizer opener
A method and apparatus to be mounted upon a planter row unit for delivering liquid fertilizer to the bottom of a trench without contacting the seed to be planted may be integrated with a cleaner for the furrow opening device. The system as claimed and described is adapted for mounting to substantially all modern row units employing floating row units. The method and apparatus as described does not interfere with existing down pressure or seed placement systems as found on modern row crop planters. As described and implemented, the method and apparatus is more compact and lighter in weight than the prior art. The attached assembly for a seed planting unit works in combination with a seed trench opener to form a trench for the deposit of liquid fertilizer offset from and parallel to the later formed seed trench.
US08205565B2 Apparatus and method for injecting waste tires through the burner end of a kiln
A device is provided for accelerating and propelling whole tires into the combustion zone of a kiln. More specifically, the device comprises an upper accelerating assembly and a lower accelerating assembly for providing approximately constant exit velocity to a whole tire regardless of its size or weight.
US08205561B1 Reading or writing table attachable to wheelchairs
A frame includes a pair of parallel arms that are transversely spaced apart from one another. A first brace interconnects the parallel arms at their respective leading ends and a second brace interconnects the parallel arms at their respective mid-lengths. A table has a first end hingedly connected to the second brace. A first and second plurality of teeth is provided along an extent of the first and second arms, respectively. First and second support struts hingedly interconnect the table to preselected teeth when the table is in a first angular position relative to the frame. First and second book supports are slideably mounted on the table and lockable into any selected position. The parallel arms are releasably attached to the armrests of a conventional wheelchair. The support struts are disengaged from the teeth to enable folding the table into a horizontal storage position where it overlies the frame.
US08205560B2 Low profile shear pad and adapter
A low profile mounting assembly for use between a rail car side frame pedestal and the rail car roller bearing includes a shear pad and a bearing adapter. In one embodiment, the shear pad has relatively thin plates joined by an elastomeric layer. In another embodiment, the shear pad includes a projection extending downwardly from a plate to be received and retained by a recess defined in a top surface of the adapter. In another embodiment, a central cavity formed in a lower plate of the shear pad cooperates with the adapter top surface to distribute forces on the roller bearing. In another embodiment, an elastomeric projection of a shear pad plate bears against ridges on the adapter top surface to prevent disengagement.
US08205558B2 System and method of improving throughput and vehicle utilization of monorail factory transport systems
Means and methods for optimizing the utilization of monorail-based vehicles carrying a work-in-progress in a clean manufacturing environment. The method includes increasing the number of pick up and drop off points on a primary or secondary monorail transportation network, to amplify the number and frequency of pick up and drop off events per vehicle per circumnavigation of the network or loop. By increasing the number of pick up and drop off events, the empty run or idle time of the corresponding vehicle will decrease, improving utilization and throughput.
US08205551B2 Method for transferring a micron-sized pattern onto an optical article and optical article thus obtained
The inventive method consists in transferring a pattern (P) onto the optical article (1) in the form of one or several portions of transferable material (3) retained by a pressure-sensitive adhesive material layer (2) and in applying transferable material portions with the aid of a pad by placing the adhesive material layer between the pad and a pattern receiving article. The use of the pressure-sensitive adhesive material makes it possible to use the different materials in the form of a transferable material. Said method is particularly suitable for producing patterns, in particular in the form of holograms on optical lenses, in particular ophthalmic lenses.
US08205550B2 Method for operating an anilox printing unit and printing press for carrying out the method
A method of operating an anilox printing unit in which ink accumulates on and detaches from a feed blade and, after detaching from the feed blade, forms ink accumulations on a screen roller, and in which a gap is formed between the screen roller and a further roller for the ink accumulations to pass through the gap without contacting the further roller, includes forming the gap by displacing the axis of the further roller and evening out the ink accumulations on the screen roller to such an extent that the ink accumulations that have been evened out pass the gap without contacting the further roller. A smoothing roller, for example, may be used to even out the ink accumulations. A printing press for carrying out the method is also provided.
US08205549B2 Systems and methods for forming continuous ink images
A wheel assembly for applying ink to a target surface employs a wheel member, first and second adhesive sheets, and at least one inking member. Each adhesive sheet defines an inner adhesive surface and an outer adhesive surface. The inner adhesive surface of the first adhesive sheet secures the first adhesive sheet to the wheel member. In a first mode, the at least one inking member is detachably secured relative to the wheel member by an exposed outer adhesive surface of the second adhesive sheet. In a second mode, the at least one inking member is detachably secured relative to the wheel member by an exposed outer adhesive surface of the first adhesive sheet. The at least one inking member is brought into contact with the target surface to transfer ink on the at least one inking member to the target surface.
US08205547B2 Embossing apparatus, and method for embossing cards
The invention relates to an embossing apparatus for embossing cards, in particular plastic cards, comprising a feed unit for feeding a card into an embossing region, and an embossing device. The embossing device comprises a displaceable, actuatable embossing die which can be positioned above a position that is to be embossed in the embossing region; a plunger unit which has a displaceable plunger for moving forward the actuatable embossing die, and a striking mechanism for applying pressure to the plunger of the plunger unit in order to carry out an embossing on a card in the embossing region by means of the embossing die.
US08205546B2 Engineered top infeed hopper system
A baler for making compacted bales of a cellulosic and preferably woody biomass material, the baler comprising: a housing defining a compaction chamber therein, wherein the housing comprises a top wall, an infeed opening defined in the top wall for introducing the material into the compaction chamber, and a hopper system comprising: first and second doors pivotably attached to the housing in opposing array over the infeed opening, wherein each door comprises a pivot having a plurality of fingers extending in planar array therefrom and defining a plurality of recesses disposed therebetween, and wherein the fingers of the first and second doors are staggered such that the fingers of each door are positioned opposite to and receivable by the recesses of the other door, and actuator means for pivoting the doors upwardly to form a chute for directing the material toward the infeed opening, and downwardly to intermesh and preferably interlock the fingers and substantially cover the infeed opening.
US08205543B2 Pressure cooker equipped with a screen
A pressure cooker equipped with a screen is disclosed, having a pan with a lid designed to be added to the pan, the lid having locking and release elements. The locking/release elements have a locking opening fitted through the wall of the pan and one pin with a mobile mounting on the lid, movable between a locked position with the pin engaged inside the locked opening and a released position where the pin is clear of the opening. The cooker includes a screen attached to the pan to mask the locking opening.
US08205536B2 Integrated weapons pod
An integrated weapons pod includes a plurality of pod components such as a targeting system, a weapons bay, a central processing unit (“CPU”), a wireless data link, and an external shell. The external shell houses the targeting system, the weapons bay, the CPU, and the wireless data link in a single freestanding unit. The weapons bay is configured to house one or more weapons and deploy the one or more weapons at a target. The CPU is operable to control operation of the targeting system, the weapons bay, and the wireless data link. The targeting system is operable to provide to the one or more weapons location information identifying a location of the target, and the wireless data link is operable to exchange data with a remote operator.
US08205535B2 Fiber cable made of high-strength synthetic fibers for a helicopter recue winch
A fiber cable for helicopter rescue winches includes a plurality of load-bearing synthetic-fiber strands braided with one another, at least one electrically conductive insert, and a wear indicator providing a visual check of a state of the fiber cable, where the load-bearing synthetic-fiber strands are encased in a radial direction by a friction-reducing stable fiber layer, an inner cable jacket, and outer cable jacket.
US08205534B2 Cutting methods and cutting apparatus
The present invention provides cutting methods and cutting apparatus that can precisely cut workpieces in complicated shapes with high aspect ratios regardless of materials of the workpieces. The present invention is cutting methods and cutting apparatus using a wire saw wherein cutting processing is performed for a workpiece by extending a cutting wire on a cutting arm that rotates around a wire's center axis or a real cutting position relative to a fixed section and rotating the cutting arm such that a cutting direction of the wire matches a support direction of a total stiffness that supports the wire.
US08205529B1 Hybrid low profile and standard ratchet system
A low profile ratchet wrench incorporates a ratchet gear drive having a female section of a socket or tool drive interface. The socket incorporates a male section for attaching the socket to a ratchet drive head section. By utilizing a female section of the interface in the wrench, the projected height of the socket is reduced as compared to a standard socket. An optional female section can be a cavity provided within the male section of the socket or other tool, allowing the tool to be used on both a standard wrench and a low profile wrench. A snap ring is disposed within a recession about an engaging end of the male section. The snap ring rests against a chamfer in a peripheral edge of the female drive tool interface securing the socket with the gear. Accessories can include attaching section style adapters, size adjusting adapters, extensions, universal joints, and wobble features.
US08205527B2 Watchband bottle opener with central extending projection to receive a bottlecap thereunder
A bottle opening wristband, having: a pivot member; a buckle loop rotatably connected to the pivot member; a first projection extending from a center edge of the buckle loop, the projection being dimensioned to be received under an edge of a bottle cap; and a second projection positioned opposite the first projection, wherein the first and second projections are positioned on opposite sides of the pivot member.
US08205526B2 Pressurized hub system
A system for pressurizing a hub having a bearing chamber formed from an air-tight sealing arrangement located on each end of a hub to form a closed air system in the interior of the hub or in combination with a second hub. The closed air system fluidly coupled to a pressurized air tank for receiving pressurized air. A pressure gauge provides a visual indication of the air pressure in the closed air system whereby a breached seal condition within the hub can be detected.
US08205522B2 Link assembly with defined boundaries for a snake like robot arm
In a “tip following” robotic arm, the apertures through which control cables pass are arranged to ensure that the cables are maintained in contact with at least a part of the aperture, leading to a more stable and controllable arrangement.
US08205518B2 Pinion meshing with a given face gear in accordance with altered design parameters
A face gear set having a face gear and an original pinion. The original pinion may mesh with the face gear. The face gear set may have a new pinion, different from the original pinion, which meshes with the face gear in accordance with at least one design parameter different from a corresponding design parameter of the original pinion. The new pinion may have a tooth surface defined by a theoretical plane. The tooth surface of the new pinion may maintain tangency contact with the original pinion during rotation and translation of the plane over a meshing area of the original pinion with the face gear, and also during rotation of each of the face gear, the original pinion and the new pinion at constant speed about the new pinion's axis of rotation.
US08205514B2 Control moment gyroscope
A control moment gyroscope (CMG) is provided for deployment on a spacecraft. The CMG includes a stator housing, an inner gimbal assembly disposed in the stator housing, and a torque motor coupled to the stator housing and at least partially disposed around an intermediate portion of the inner gimbal assembly. The torque motor is configured to rotate the inner gimbal assembly about a gimbal axis.
US08205512B1 Systems and methods for collection and detection of particulates in the air
Embodiments include systems and methods for collection and identification of particulates in the air. In one embodiment, two different path ways are provided from a single adjustable inlet: one for collection and one for detection. A removable insert positionable within a collection tube enables a user to switch between the collection mode and the detection mode. This embodiment captures both the physical mechanisms of switching the air flow paths as well as sequencing of controls and valves and regulation or changing the air flow rate in the different modes of operation. This and other embodiments are disclosed herein.
US08205511B1 Air-sampling device and method of use
The present disclosure concerns embodiments of a sampling apparatus that utilizes one or more cyclone separators to collect airborne particles from the atmosphere. In one representative embodiment, the sampling apparatus includes a collection-vessel retaining member that is adapted to be removably coupled to a collection vessel. The retaining member has an air-inlet conduit for permitting air to flow through the open end of the collection vessel and an air-outlet conduit for permitting air to exit the open end of the collection vessel. The air-inlet conduit and the air-outlet conduit are configured to cause air flowing into the collection vessel to establishes a cyclonic flow path, which causes airborne particles to separate out from the air stream and collect in the collection vessel.
US08205510B2 Hand brake torque input coupler and indicator
A hand brake torque input indicator arrangement for detecting and indicating a torque of rotating mechanical components has an indicator provided between two rotatable bodies, a shaft and a wheel, which are coupled to the indicator so that a torque acting on the shaft by the wheel or vice versa can be indicated.
US08205507B2 Ultrasonic sensor for measuring flow rates in liquid melts
The invention relates to an ultrasonic sensor for measuring flow rates in liquid melts at high temperatures. The aim of the invention is to provide an ultrasonic sensor for carrying out local, continuous, reliable rate measurements in hot melts. To achieve this, the ultrasonic sensor contains an ultrasonic waveguide that is connected to the piezoelectric transducer and consists of a material with low acoustic damping properties in a temperature range relevant for the area of application of above 200 DEG C, said material being chemically resistant to the melt. In addition, the end face of the ultrasonic waveguide facing the melt is closed and can be wetted by the melt.
US08205506B2 Device for fixing of a prismatic mechanical test piece, method of utilization thereof and uses
A device for the fixing of a prismatic mechanical test piece, which consists of two mechanisms that secure the test piece (7) on both sides, where each mechanism consists of two independent blocks (1 and 2), the second block (2) being displaceable in relation to the first (1), at least two rods (3) and a cylinder (4) for assisting the attachment between both blocks (1 and 2), a screw (5) for assuring the attachment between both blocks (1 and 2), and an adapter plate (6) which is adjusted to the second block (2) by means of a pin or bolt (8). Moreover, both blocks (1 and 2) have on the surface facing the test piece (7), an inclined plane (9) which has a grinding at each end in the form of a dovetail (10), such that the test piece (7) remains secured between the two grindings (10).
US08205505B2 Pressure testing device
A pressure testing device includes: a vacuum pump having positive and negative pressure terminals; a first solenoid valve having a first intake terminal and a first exhaust terminal connected to the negative pressure terminal; a second solenoid valve having a second exhaust terminal and a second intake terminal connected to the positive pressure terminal; a pressure sensor having one end connected to the first intake terminal and the second exhaust terminal and the other end connected to a pressure testing terminal of an object; an operation module for displaying an operation interface to input pressure testing parameters; and a control unit for performing an air-extracting process through the vacuum pump and first solenoid valve or an air-exhausting process through the vacuum pump and second solenoid valve to the object according to the inputted parameters and displaying the state of the object sensed by the pressure sensor through the operation module.
US08205504B2 Micron-scale pressure sensors and use thereof
An optical fiber sensing device for detecting physical parameters such as pressures, strains and temperatures comprises a probe housing therein an optical fiber. The distal end of the probe houses a distal portion of the optical fiber having a section provided with a fiber Bragg grating. The proximal end of the probe is mounted into a holder. The optical fiber is sealably mounted into the probe housing with a first seal overlaid the proximal portion of the optical fiber The seal may extend to about the proximal end of the optical fiber section with the Bragg grating. A second seal is overlaid the distal portion of the optical fiber and extends from the distal end of the probe to about the distal end of the optical fiber section with the Bragg grating. The proximal end of the probe is communicable with a fiber Bragg grating interrogation system.
US08205501B2 Mounting structure of ultrasonic sensor
A mobile object includes a wall member to which an ultrasonic sensor is fixed. The wall member has a through hole through which an oscillating face of the ultrasonic sensor is exposed from the wall member. A closing member closes a gap generated between the wall member and the ultrasonic sensor. The closing member connects an edge of the through hole located outside of the wall member and an edge of the oscillating face of the ultrasonic sensor. The closing member has an outer face exposed from the wall member, and the outer face of the closing member has asperities.
US08205500B2 Systems and methods for inspecting an object using ultrasound
An ultrasound inspection system is provided for inspecting an object. The inspection system includes an ultrasound probe configured to scan the object and acquire a plurality of ultrasound scan data. The inspection system further includes a processor coupled to the ultrasound probe and configured to apply a transfer function to the ultrasound scan data to compensate for distortion of a plurality of ultrasound signals through the object and thereby generate a plurality of compensated ultrasound scan data, and to process the compensated ultrasonic scan data to characterize a feature in the object.
US08205497B1 Microelectromechanical inertial sensor
A microelectromechanical (MEM) inertial sensor is disclosed which can be used to sense a linear acceleration, or a Coriolis acceleration due to an angular rotation rate, or both. The MEM inertial sensor has a proof mass which is supported on a bridge extending across an opening through a substrate, with the proof mass being balanced on the bridge by a pivot, or suspended from the bridge by the pivot. The proof mass can be oscillated in a tangential direction in the plane of the substrate, with any out-of-plane movement of the proof mass in response to a sensed acceleration being optically detected using transmission gratings located about an outer edge of the proof mass to generate a diffracted light pattern which changes with the out-of-plane movement of the proof mass.
US08205493B2 Plug-in sensor having improved fluid mechanics
A plug-in sensor for determining an aspirated air mass of an internal combustion engine flowing through a flow pipe has a plug part, which is able to be introduced into the streaming medium with a specified orientation to the main flow direction. Provided in this plug part is at least one flow channel having at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. Accommodated in the at least one flow channel is at least one sensor for determining the at least one parameter. The plug part has a rounded inflow side, which points counter to the main flow direction. The plug part at least partially has an airfoil profile, which is designed such that an asymmetrical flow profile of the fluid medium comes about when the plug part is introduced into the streaming fluid medium.
US08205491B2 Method and system of testing a fuel injector
Disclosed is both an apparatus and method for quantifying an injection event of a fuel injector, including both multiple pulse and single pulse injection events. Typically, the fuel injector is a common rail injector. The apparatus includes a pressure chamber for isolating a portion of the injection pressure for reducing pressure waves and reflections which can create “noise” in the detection of an injection pressure. The invention further includes determining the precise start and end times of injection using cavitation created by the injection event by determining the intensity of light within a spray chamber.
US08205488B2 Fully digitally controller for cantilever-based instruments
A controller for cantilever-based instruments, including atomic force microscopes, molecular force probe instruments, high-resolution profilometers and chemical or biological sensing probes. The controller samples the output of the photo-detector commonly used to detect cantilever deflection in these instruments with a very fast analog/digital converter (ADC). The resulting digitized representation of the output signal is then processed with field programmable gate arrays and digital signal processors without making use of analog electronics. Analog signal processing is inherently noisy while digital calculations are inherently “perfect” in that they do not add any random noise to the measured signal. Processing by field programmable gate arrays and digital signal processors maximizes the flexibility of the controller because it can be varied through programming means, without modification of the controller hardware.
US08205487B2 Probe microscope setup method
A scanning probe microscope and method of operation for monitoring and assessing proper tracking between the tip and sample, as well as automating at least some aspects of AFM setup previously done manually. Preferably, local slopes corresponding to the acquired data are compared to determine a tracking metric that is self-normalizing.
US08205486B2 Plant-controlled atmometer for measuring crop evapotranspiration
An atmometer device comprises a porous evaporator member, a suction tube communicating water from a reservoir to the porous evaporator member, a sensor measuring a moisture characteristic of soil associated with a crop, a mechanism arranged for controllably varying a rate of evaporation of the water through the porous evaporator member responsive to the moisture characteristic measured by the sensor, and an indicator arranged to indicate water loss in the reservoir. By controlling rate of evaporation of the water through the porous evaporator member responsive to the measured moisture characteristic of the soil, the amount of water loss in the reservoir during the given time period more accurately reflects crop evapotranspiration.
US08205482B2 Hydrogen sensor with detection film comprised of rare earth metal particles dispersed in a ceramic
A hydrogen sensor (100) is provided with a substrate (2), a detection film (4) formed on the substrate (2), and a hydrogen permeable protective film (10) formed on the detection film (4). The detection film (4) is composed of a first ceramic (6) and rare-earth metal particles (8) dispersed in the first ceramic (6). The protective film (10) is composed of a second ceramic (12) and hydrogen permeable metal particles (14) dispersed in the second ceramic (12). Preferably, the thickness of the detection film (4) is 5 to 1,000 nm, and the thickness of the hydrogen permeable protective film (10) is 5 to 40 nm.
US08205478B1 Smoke detector testing tool
An apparatus to aid in the testing of smoke detectors comprises a rifle-shaped design which holds and dispenses aerosol cans of smoke and air is herein disclosed. The apparatus is approximately four (4) feet long and includes additional extension tubes approximately three (3) feet long. In such a manner the apparatus is capable of reaching smoke detectors that are seven (7) feet or more above the users head. In addition to dispensing smoke for testing and air for purging, the apparatus also includes a magnetic adapter for testing smoke detector switches, a mechanical probe attachment for smoke detector activation, and a holder for electronic devices such as barcode scanners. In such a manner the testing and maintenance of most smoke detectors can be performed safely from ground level without the use of ladders or other assistance.
US08205477B2 Container end closure
A metallic container end closure is provided which includes a channel or groove in a predetermined location in at least one of an inner panel wall, outer panel wall, or chuckwall, and which is formed by a shaping tool. An apparatus and method for spin-forming the end closure with the improved geometry is also provided herein.
US08205474B2 Method and plant for integrated monitoring and control of strip flatness and strip profile
Apparatus and method of controlling strip geometry in casting strip having a rolling mill. A target thickness profile is calculated as a function of the measured entry thickness profile of the strip while satisfying profile and flatness parameters. A differential strain feedback from longitudinal strain in the strip is calculated by a control system by comparing the exit thickness profile with the target thickness profile, and a control signal is generated to control a device capable of affecting the geometry of the strip processed by the hot rolling mill. A feed-forward control reference and/or sensitivity vector may also be calculated as a function of the target thickness profile, and used in generating the control signal sent to the control device. The control device may be selected from one or more of the group consisting of a bending controller, gap controller and coolant controller.
US08205473B2 Profiled key for cylinder locks
A key for use in a cylinder lock with a rotatable key plug having an elongated key blade with a relatively wide lower portion and a relatively narrow upper portion. A step-like transition region between the wider lower portion and the narrow upper portion. The key blade includes a longitudinal profile groove located adjacent to the step-like transition region that extends along at least a portion of the length of the blade. An inner wall of groove is substantially parallel to a side surface of the lower portion of the key blade. The longitudinal profile groove includes an undercut portion adjacent to and inside a ridge portion of the key blade. The outside of ridge portion forms a part of the side surface of the blade in the relatively wide lower portion up to the step-like transition region and the inside of ridge portion facing inner wall of the groove.
US08205469B2 Two-stage screw compressor and refrigerating device
There is provided a two-stage screw compressor including a first-stage compressor that compresses a fluid, a second-stage compressor that further compresses the fluid compressed by the first-stage compressor, a motor that drives the first-stage compressor and the second-stage compressor, and a box body that serves as a flow passage connecting an outlet of the first-stage compressor and an inlet of the second-stage compressor, and also forms a connection space storing a transmission mechanism for transmitting a rotation force from the motor to the first-stage compressor and to the second-stage compressor, wherein the connection space is sealed by the casing of the motor, and the connection space and an internal space of the casing of the motor communicate with each other.
US08205462B1 System and method for recycling non-usable refrigerant containers
A system and method for recycling non-reusable refrigerant transport containers. At least one intact refrigerant transport container is received into a sealed chamber. The refrigerant transport container is punctured to release residual refrigerant, which is removed and compressed. The container is shredded and/or compacted. A refrigerant transport container deposit program is provided, comprising: encoding a deposit container prior to use; receiving the encoded spent container and releasing the imposed deposit; automatically removing residual refrigerant from the spent container; and recycling materials from the refrigerant transport container. A database storing a record relating to the encoded refrigerant transport containers may be employed for tracking.
US08205459B2 Thermo-electro-acoustic refrigerator and method of using same
A thermo-electro-acoustic refrigerator comprises a sealed body having a regenerator, hot and cold heat exchangers, an acoustic source, and an acoustic energy converter. A first drive signal drives the acoustic source to produce an acoustic pressure wave in the region of the regenerator. The converter converts a portion of the acoustic pressure into a second drive signal which is fed back to and further drives the acoustic source. The pressure wave produces a thermal gradient between the cold and hot heat exchangers, permitting heat extraction (cooling) within at least one of the heat exchangers. The resonant frequency of the refrigerator can be controlled electronically, and is not limited by the physical structure of the refrigerator body and its elements.
US08205456B1 Dual heat exchanger power cycle
A power plant for burning a fuel in a low pressure combustion chamber to produce electrical power. A first compressor supplies compressed air through a first heat exchanger to add heat to the compressed air. The heated compressed air is passed through a first turbine to drive a first electric generator. The first turbine outlet is passed through a second heat exchanger in series with the first heat exchanger to further heat the compressed air. The compressed air is then passed through a second turbine to drive a second electric generator and produce electric power. The outlet from the second turbine is passed through a first combustor to produce the hot gas flow through the second heat exchanger. The outlet from the second heat exchanger is passed through a second combustor before passing through the first heat exchanger. The outlet from the first heat exchanger is passed through a heat recovery steam generator to generate steam to drive another turbine and another generator. An additional compressor and intercooler can be used to supply the compressed air to the first heat exchanger. With this system, one or more fuels can be burned under low pressure and without passing the contaminants from combustion through the turbines.
US08205452B2 Apparatus for fuel injection in a turbine engine
In one embodiment, a system includes a fuel nozzle that includes a fuel injector configured to output a fuel flow and a premixer tube disposed about the fuel flow output from the fuel injector. The premixer tube includes a perforated portion and a non-perforated portion, and the non-perforated portion is downstream of the perforated portion.
US08205450B2 Method of operating an electrically assisted turbocharger and a boosting device
A method of operating a turbocharger is provided, wherein the turbocharger comprises a compressor for compressing inlet air to be supplied to an internal combustion engine and an exhaust gas turbine for driving said compressor. The turbocharger further comprises an electric motor for driving said compressor operable by an electric supply system including an alternator and an electric energy storage device. A connection between said alternator and said electric energy storage device is disconnectable by a switch. According to the present invention, the method comprises the following steps:detecting a transient condition, wherein said internal combustion engine is required to be accelerated;supplying electric energy to said electric motor only from said electric energy storage device at the beginning of said transient condition until a predetermined state is reached;supplying electric energy to said electric motor from the electric supply system after said predetermined state is reached.
US08205449B2 Internal combustion engine and control system for internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine having a turbocharger is provided. The engine includes a turbine of the turbocharger located in an exhaust system of the engine, an upstream side catalyst located upstream of the turbine, a catalyst bypass passage bypassing the upstream side catalyst, a catalyst bypass passage on/off valve for opening and closing the catalyst bypass passage, and a first exhaust gas recirculation passage for recirculating a part of exhaust gases from a portion between the upstream side catalyst and the turbine to an intake system of the engine. The engine, that further includes a second exhaust gas recirculation passage for recirculating a part of exhaust gases from an upstream side of the upstream side catalyst to the intake system, and a switching valve for switching between the first exhaust recirculation passage and the second exhaust recirculation passage, is provided.
US08205441B2 Zone heated inlet ignited diesel particulate filter regeneration
An exhaust system that processes exhaust generated by an engine is provided. The system includes: a particulate filter (PF) that is disposed downstream of the engine and that filters particulates from the exhaust; and a grid that includes electrically resistive material that is segmented by non-conductive material into a plurality of zones and wherein the grid is applied to an exterior upstream surface of the PF.
US08205440B2 Intrusive SCR efficency testing systems and methods for vehicles with low temperature exhaust gas
An exhaust diagnostic system includes an exhaust gas temperature management module that selectively increases a temperature of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst to a predetermined testing temperature range using an intrusive exhaust gas temperature management approach. An SCR efficiency testing module estimates an efficiency of the SCR catalyst while the temperature is within the predetermined temperature range.
US08205437B2 On board diagnostic system
An exhaust system for an internal combustion engine, which system comprises a monolith substrate (10) coated with a catalyst, which monolith substrate comprising a plurality of substantially parallel channels, each channel having a length extending from an upstream end to a downstream end; and a first sensor disposed in a hole (16) defined in part by an external wall of the monolith substrate, wherein the monolith substrate comprises a portion (12) of the plurality of channels wherein the catalyst composition in at least a part of the length of channels extending from the upstream end has an increased activity for a reaction for which the catalyst composition is intended relative to catalyst composition in a remainder (14) of the monolith substrate, the arrangement being such that the sensor is contacted substantially only with exhaust gas that has first contacted the catalyst composition having an increased activity.
US08205436B2 Unintended exothermal reactions monitoring for diesel after-treatment systems
An algorithm or diagnostic for detecting and alarming unintended exothermic conditions in exhaust after treatment components selectively detects alarming temperature variations in exhaust after treatment components when caused by internal unintended exothermal events, rather than transient conditions that are externally driven. Not only are the output temperature and the delta temperature (T_out−T_in) across the component monitored in each after-treatment device, but also the input temperature is deeply analyzed through its recent history data in order to determine if any input variations caused the output changes.
US08205435B2 Deterioration determination device for catalyst, catalyst deterioration determining method, and engine control unit
A deterioration determination device for a catalyst, which is capable of accurately determining deterioration of a catalyst without being influenced by the response delays of outputs from the upstream and downstream oxygen concentration parameter sensors. The deterioration determination device includes upstream and downstream LAF sensors for detecting respective upstream and downstream oxygen concentration parameters. After switching exhaust gases flowing through the former parameter sensor into the catalyst to a reduction atmosphere, an upstream oxygen concentration parameter detected for comparison when a predetermined time period elapses after it exceeds a predetermined value is compared with a downstream oxygen concentration parameter detected for comparison when the predetermined time period elapses after it exceeds the predetermined value. Based results of the comparison, deterioration of the catalyst is determined.
US08205432B2 Epicyclic gear train for turbo fan engine
A two-stage turbofan system for use in a gas turbine engine comprises a first-stage fan shaft, a second-stage fan shaft, a stationary torque tube and a gear system. The second-stage fan shaft connects with a drive shaft in the gas turbine engine such that the second-stage fan shaft is driven at the speed of the drive shaft. The stationary torque tube is connected with a fan case in the gas turbine engine. The gear system is connected to the second-stage fan shaft and the torque tube. The first-stage fan shaft extends from the gear system such that the first-stage fan shaft is driven at a speed reduced from that of the drive shaft.
US08205428B2 Capacitive stator
A standard 4-pole electric motor stator with capacitive plates in-line with the magnetic poles, but electrically 90° out of phase, produces two Lorentz force geometries 90° out of phase with each other (i.e., vertical, horizontal). An alternating source electrically rotates this pair of Lorentz geometries producing a propagating electromagnetic wave at the source frequency within the vacant internal cavity. Any charged particle within the cavity and along its axis will be accelerated or decelerated from an initial velocity via the Lorentz force. The rotating geometry provides for the coupling of the Lorentz force through a current loop and diamagnetism, providing acceleration and deceleration of non-charged particles. The force coupling is dependent upon the material's electromagnetic properties, the frequencies generated by the capacitive stator, and the velocity of the particles within the capacitive stator's influence.
US08205426B2 Method and apparatus for operating gas turbine engines
A method for assembling a turbine engine to facilitate reducing an operating temperature of a lubrication fluid during engine operation, the gas turbine engine including a fan assembly, a booster downstream from the fan assembly, and a splitter circumscribing the booster. The method includes coupling a radially inner wall and a radially outer wall at a leading edge to form a splitter body, and coupling an inner support structure within the splitter body such that a cooling circuit is defined between at least a portion of the inner support structure and the inner and outer walls, said cooling circuit configured to circulate lubrication fluid therethrough such that as a temperature of the lubrication fluid is reduced and a temperature of at least a portion of the inner and outer walls is increased.
US08205424B1 Baler pre-cutter rotor design having reinforced tines
Tines of a baler pre-cutter rotor each include a plate having a plurality of points disposed at equally spaced locations about a rotation axis of the rotor, with each point having a leading region reinforced by a pair of straps fixed in sandwiching relationship to the point. In one embodiment, the pair of straps is also applied to opposite sides of a trailing region bordering a circular mounting hole of the plate. In another embodiment, a second pair of straps abuts each first pair of straps and reinforces a leading region bordering the circular mounting hole. Instead of the second pair of straps, a ramp may be provided on a side surface of the plate for deflecting crop towards a pre-cutter stationary cutting knife. Instead of including separate straps, the tines can be cast or forged as identical sections including a tine point.
US08205420B2 Horseback riding spur mechanism
A spur attachable to a boot is provided. The spur includes a body comprising a first arm, a second arm, a third arm, a fourth arm, and a neck with a head disposed on the distal end of each arm. The first arm, the second arm, the third arm, and the fourth arm are configured to be forward relative to a heel of the boot and the neck is configured to be rearward relative to the heel of the boot, and the third arm and fourth arm are configured to tighten a single strap attached to the head disposed on the distal end of each arm when the neck drops relative to the boot.
US08205414B2 Method to produce a modified atmosphere for food preservation
An appliance system including a module removably mounted to an appliance, one or more removable gas canisters operably connected to the module, and a food retaining enclosed space operably connected to the module. The one or more gas canisters supply a modified atmosphere in the food retaining enclosed space to produce a modified atmosphere that enhances preservation of the food contained in the food retaining enclosed space. A method of modifying the atmosphere in a food storage space for food includes the steps of: providing a module capable of being removably engaged to an appliance and typically receiving power from the appliance and at least one removable gas canister; operatively connecting or otherwise engaging the module with the appliance; operatively connecting or otherwise engaging the module to a food storage area having an existing atmosphere; and removing at least a portion of the existing atmosphere from the food storage space and replacing it with a modified food storage atmosphere using at least one of the at least one removable gas canisters to supply the modified atmosphere to the food storage area.
US08205412B2 Panelization method and system
A prefabrication system having a floor component and a frame component. In particular, the floor component includes a deck member, which can be made of deck sections, profiles, or panels. For example, the deck member can be made of continuous panels that cover the desired width and length of the floor component. Alternatively, the deck member can be made of preassembled sections that are combined in juxtaposed relation to form the desired width and length. The frame component includes opposing horizontal support channels that are attached to opposing vertical columns, respectfully.
US08205411B2 Apparatus for supporting formwork panels in wall construction
An apparatus for supporting formwork panels in wall construction comprises a pair of rails for supporting the lower edges of a pair of formwork panels. Spacers fixed to the floor engage the rails to maintain them parallel to one another a predetermined distance apart.
US08205410B2 Transition molding and installation methods therefor
The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a foot, a first arm, and a second arm. The foot is positioned along a longitudinal axis of the molding, and the first arm extends generally perpendicularly to the foot. The second arm may also extend generally perpendicularly to the foot. A tab depends from at least one of the first and second arms. At least one of the tab and the foot engage a track in order to position the assembly over the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the foot in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the foot to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.
US08205409B2 Grating system with enhanced see-through characteristics
A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are typically seated on the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
US08205399B2 Portable dwelling
A portable dwelling for use on the ground is disclosed having an enclosure with an interior space so dimensioned to receive an adult human being in a reclined or laying position and in an upright sitting position within the interior space. The enclosure has a plurality of surfaces between the interior space and an exterior space capable of maintaining dryness of the interior space in the event of a rainfall. Wheels are attached to the enclosure to facilitate movement of the enclosure along the ground. The enclosure has a mass capable of being moved along the ground via the wheels by the single adult human being, and has an exterior profile so dimensioned to allow the enclosure to be moved along a sidewalk of a city without completely obstructing a navigable portion of the sidewalk.
US08205394B1 Adjustable bathtub ledger strap and method of use
A bathtub ledger strap for use with the installation of a bathtub, such ledger strap being of generally planar construction for attachment to a ledger stud in a position corresponding to a wall stud, such ledger strap having a top portion, a mid portion and a lower portion disposed along its length with such portions having apertures/slots for adjusting the height and level of the ledger stud on a corresponding wall stud using screws and levering means and for permanently attaching the rim of the bathtub to the ledger strap and corresponding wall stud after the ledger stud is at the desired height and level state.
US08205392B2 Method for mounting an auxiliary member on a door or window frame
A method for mounting an auxiliary member on a window or door frame already installed and whereon is mounted a drive assembly comprising at least one actuating member and at least one transmission rod mounted in at least one slot of the frame. The method comprises the steps of, providing, between the auxiliary member and the rod, a coupling that is slidable in a longitudinal direction and fixed in any direction orthogonal to the direction of sliding, and forming a through hole in the rod by a screw carried by the auxiliary member, and fastening the auxiliary member to the rod by the engagement of a tip of the screw with the through hole.
US08205389B1 Window seal assembly having a T-shaped trim member
A window seal assembly having glass run channels (134, 210), outer belt seals (300) and a T-shaped trim member (128). The window seal assembly eliminates the need for joints, seems, metal fasteners and end caps resulting in an improved aesthetic appearance as well as enhanced window seating. The trim member (128) can having various finishes such as low gloss black, high gloss black and chrome.
US08205387B2 Delayed egress sliding door and method
Systems and methods are described for controlling a breakaway feature in a sliding door. The sliding door can be mounted in a doorway on a door hanger. The door is typically attached at one end using a hinge mechanism and maintained in planar alignment with the doorframe by a controllable mechanism such as an electromagnetic shear lock. An activation switch, such as a push-bar switch, initiates a delayed egress sequence that disengages the shear lock by controlling an energizing current in a magnet. When the shear lock is disengaged, the door can swing on the hinged mechanism. The delayed egress sequence can include one or more delays prior to disengaging the shear lock. Override signals can inhibit or force disengagement of the shear lock.
US08205384B2 Shutter for covering non-rectangular architectural openings
A shutter for covering for architectural openings having non-conventional geometries. The shutter may be used for covering a wide variety of shapes of openings, including arched, curved, circular, oval, triangular, hexagonal, square and rectangular geometries, as well as any combination of these geometries. A plurality of frame blocks form a frame of the shutter, each frame block having front and rear faces; a top surface; an outer surface; a vertical inner surface, and a horizontal bottom surface, wherein the bottom surface of a first block of the plurality of frame blocks rests on the top surface of a next lower second block of the plurality of frame blocks and extends inwardly beyond the vertical inner surface of the second block to define a cantilevered portion.
US08205380B2 Method of growing plants
The invention provides a method of growing plants in a non-fibrous growth substrate, the method comprises providing at least one non-fibrous growth substrate comprising wetting agent, positioning one or more plants for growth in the growth substrate, characterized in that the wetting agent comprises ionic surfactant and the non-fibrous growth substrate is selected from the group consisting of urea formaldehyde foam, perlite, vermiculite, expanded clay, coco chips, coco dust, lava, pumice and mixtures thereof.
US08205379B2 Mushroom compost compacting system and method
A mushroom compost compacting system and method includes a roller assembly mounted to a compost receptacle to form a nip, and a web or conveyor to convey mushroom compost to the nip. Mushroom compost is compacted at the nip from an initial compost height to a final compost height. The roller assembly has a roller, a shaft, and fixtures coupled to each end of the shaft. The fixtures are adjustable to define the roller nip height. In one embodiment, the fixtures are mounted to sleeves that engage the sidewalls of the compost receptacle. In another embodiment, the ends of the fixtures are mounted to a support, which may be a joist or a separate channel extending under the floor portion of the compost receptacle, or which may be a post that forms support structure for the compost receptacle.
US08205376B1 System for carrying and changing pre-rigged fish hooks
A system for carrying and changing pre-rigged fish hooks comprising a fish hook carrying device including a flexible support structure having a hook retainer end and line retainer end. The hook retainer end includes a fish hook retainer and the line retainer end includes a plurality of sleeves. Each separate sleeve is for accepting a weight attached to the line of a different pre-rigged fish hook. Each separate weight provides a constant downward straightening force on the line to which it is attached when the carrying device is flexed by a fisherman. The system may further include pairs of indicia, one on the hook retainer and one on a corresponding sleeve, to aid a visually impaired fisherman to keep the line of each pre-rigged fish hook untangled along the support structure.
US08205375B1 Mounting with shock and harmonic vibration dampener
A mounting assembly for attaching an accessory to a dovetail rail interface on a firearm includes a body having a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion is configured to engage the dovetail rail interface and the upper portion is configured to receive and retain an accessory such as a scope or aiming device. A spring dampening structure resides within the body of the assembly wherein dampening structure is configured to dampen shock waves and harmonic vibration transferred into the body from operation of the firearm. A clamping assembly is configured to releasably clamp the body to the dovetail rail interface.
US08205368B2 Spinner trophy
A novel spinner trophy that includes a supporting base and a decorative member connected to the supporting base for rotation with respect thereto.
US08205366B2 Snap mobile for advertising a product or event
A snap mobile is disclosed for advertising a product or event and includes a display card having a first printed surface and an oppositely aligned second surface. The display card has a width divided by at least five score lines into first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth panels, with the first and sixth panels having an equal width. The snap mobile contains no adhesive between the second, third, fourth and fifth panels. This lack of adhesive enables the snap mobile to be manipulated into three separate and distinct positions after the first panel is secured to the sixth panel.
US08205364B2 Iron
Provided is an iron which enables ironing to be performed efficiently through both forward and backward movements of the iron and which provides improved usability thereof when moved backward in the direction of a rear end portion of a soleplate. A support is provided for supporting an iron main body to be in a self-standing state where the soleplate, which has the front and rear end portions each formed in a pointed shape, is substantially vertically disposed. The support has first and second support portions that are provided to both sides of the rear end portion so as to protrude backward from the iron main body, and has a third support portion provided at a rear portion of a grip part. A space that allows the rear end portion of the soleplate to be visible is provided between the first and second support portions.
US08205362B2 Digging point assembly
A digging point assembly for use in earthworking which comprises a main body which includes a socket member defining a hollow socket for engagement with a leading tip of a tyne and first and second replaceable wear parts which are mounted to the main body to protect the leading end and top of the socket member which are normally exposed to wear in movement through soil, the first wear part being maintained in an operative position at the leading end of the socket by the tyne and cooperating with the second wear part to maintain the second wear part in operative position protecting the top of the socket member. The digging point assembly may also include a third replaceable wear part at the leading end of the body part which is held in position by cooperation with the first replaceable wear part.
US08205360B1 Snowplow laser guidance system
A snowplow laser guidance system is disclosed. The system can include, for example, a laser light source, a laser exit window through which a laser beam generated by the laser light source is transmitted, and a pressurized gas conduit. The pressurized gas conduit can have an opening positioned such that gas released through the opening flows across a face of the laser exit window. This can be useful to remove accumulated material, such as snow, ice, water, and dirt. The gas can be, for example, pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source of a snowplow vehicle. Release of pressurized gas across the face of the laser exit window can occur at a programmed frequency and/or in response to an operator signal, such as a signal from a switch on a control panel. The system also can include a heater connected to the laser exit window for defrosting.
US08205357B2 Interchangeable midsole system
Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a shoe assembly having at least an outsole portion and a midsole portion, the midsole portion is removably engaged with the outsole to allow replacement of the midsole with another midsole having different structural features, and at least one projection extends from the midsole through an aperture of the outsole, the projection configured to engage with a corresponding aperture of the outsole to align and secure the midsole to the outsole.
US08205351B2 Dispensing vessel for clothes dryer
A dispensing vessel for introducing moisture into a clothes drying environment includes a sponge-like core configured to at least temporarily retain a moistening substance therein, a generally oblong-shaped cover substantially surrounding the core and retaining the core in a compressed condition, and a moistening substance retained within the core. The cover includes a fill opening defined therethrough, the fill opening providing access to an interior of the cover from an exterior of the cover, a plurality of protuberances spaced generally evenly from one another, each protuberance having a generally conical shape, and one or more dispensing openings, each dispensing opening disposed at a distal end of a protuberance of the plurality of protuberances, and each dispensing opening providing access to an exterior of the cover from an interior of the cover. Furthermore, each of the dispensing openings is not positioned generally opposite the fill opening.
US08205348B2 Tile spacer and holder therefor
The present invention relates to a removable tile spacer for enabling even spacing between a first tile and a second tile that are perpendicular to each other. The second tile has an end opposite the first tile. The removable tile spacer includes a first elongate member interposable between the first tile and the end of the second tile to provide spacing between the first tile and the second tile. The tile spacer includes a body. The first elongate member is connected to and extends away from the body at an angle relative to the body such that the body has at least a portion which is spaced-apart from both the first tile and the second tile when the first elongate member is interposed between the first tile and the end of the second tile. This thereby facilitates removal of the tile spacer when tile spacing is completed.
US08205343B2 Safety razor having pivotable blade unit
A safety razor includes a handle and a blade unit having at least one blade. The blade unit is connected to the handle for a pivotal movement relative thereto. One of the handle and the blade unit has a concave portion formed on its surface. A relative movement transfer member is formed between the handle and the blade unit for transferring a relative movement between the handle and the blade unit caused by the pivotal movement. A return force generating member is formed in the concave portion for generating a return force for the blade unit in response to the relative movement transfer member. The return force generating member includes a holding structure for holding a part of the relative movement transfer member, and an elastic member connected to the holding structure for generating the return force in response to the relative movement transfer member.
US08205340B2 Safety scalpel with blade retention
A surgical scalpel is presented which combines the attributes of cost-effectiveness in design and safety of single use scalpel devices and the ability to be autoclavable so as to promote the device as a multiple use device as well. The design of the device is such as to afford medical personnel the feel, weight and balance of the original metal unguarded scalpel, while maintaining safety through the shielding of the blade during non-use and the ability to dispose of the blade in a safe controlled manner. The user is able to remove the blade through the biasing action of a living hinge and have it securely attached to the shield of the device for later discharge into a sharps container, all without having to place ones hands near the unguarded sharp. The device to designed to use existing styles of blades currently available without needing costly inventories of specially created blades. This device is presented in several embodiments containing similar attributes for safety and discharge of the blade.
US08205336B2 Method for manufacturing a combustor heat shield
A combustor heat shield comprises a heat shield member defining at least one opening for receiving a fuel nozzle. A louver is received in the opening. The louver has a flow diverting portion extending radially outwardly from the opening for directing air along the hot side of the heat shield member.
US08205335B2 Method of repairing knife edge seals
A method of repairing a gas turbine knife edge seal assembly in which assembly is included a used honeycomb ring seal and a knife edge. The method includes removing the used honeycomb ring seal, removing material from the knife edge to a first knife edge radial height, installing a replacement honeycomb ring seal with a stock radial thickness, and removing material from the replacement honeycomb ring seal to a finished radial thickness for sealable engagement with the knife edge. The finished radial thickness of the replacement honeycomb ring seal establishes a first radial gap between an inner annular surface of the replacement honeycomb ring seal and the knife edge before the knife edge seal assembly begins rotating in the gas turbine.
US08205329B2 Method for manufacturing dielectric layer constituting material, dielectric layer constituting material obtained thereby; method for manufacturing capacitor circuit forming piece using dielectric layer constituting material, capacitor circuit forming piece obtained thereby; and multi-layer printed wiring board obtained by using dielectric layer constituting material and/or capacitor circuit forming piece
An object is to obtain a dielectric layer constituting material, a capacitor circuit forming piece, etc. in which unnecessary dielectric layer is removed except capacitor circuit parts that improve accuracy of position of an embedded capacitor circuit in a multi-layer printed wiring board. For the purpose of achieving the object, “a method for manufacturing a dielectric layer constituting material characterized in that step a is a step for forming a first electrode circuit by etching a conductor layer on one side of a metal clad dielectric comprising a conductor layer on each side of a dielectric layer; step b is a step for removing the dielectric layer that is exposed between the first electrode circuits to manufacture the dielectric layer constituting material; and the step a is conducted and then the step b is conducted” is adopted. Then as a process for manufacturing a capacitor circuit forming piece, the dielectric layer constituting material obtained above is used and a process for forming a second electrode at a position facing the first electrode is conducted.
US08205325B2 Device for applying an electronic component
The invention relates to a device for applying an electronic component having terminal faces, to a substrate, also having terminal faces, wherein the component is removed from a feeding device by means of an application device. An application device subsequently positions the component on the substrate in such a manner that the component terminal faces which extend from a contact side of the component up to a component rear side and the substrate terminal faces are in an overlapping position. A direct application of laser energy subsequently contacts the terminal faces to the component terminal faces. The application device has a contact nozzle with a component accommodating area for accommodating the component. The contact nozzle has a vacuum opening coupled to a vacuum duct and an emission opening for applying laser radiation to the component. The emission opening includes two emission windows which are spaced apart from one another by a component contact surface and each of the two emission windows is assigned to one of the terminal faces of the component. The component contact surface is formed by two front surfaces of two support bars which are arranged so as to be located opposite one another and which are embodied in the vacuum duct.
US08205322B2 Method of manufacturing laminated core
A method of manufacturing a laminated stator core includes: forming a band-shaped yoke core sub-piece having a shape that an outer half is developed in a straight line when a yoke portion of the laminated stator core is divided into two halves in the width direction by punching a metal plate; forming an outer laminated yoke body by winding and laminating the band-shaped yoke core sub-piece in a spiral shape and coupling it in a caulking manner; forming an inner yoke-attachment magnetic core sub-piece having an inner yoke sub-portion obtained by dividing the inner half in a unit of magnetic poles when the yoke portion of the laminated stator core is divided into two halves in the width direction, by punching a metal plate; forming an inner yoke-attachment laminated magnetic sub-body by laminating and coupling a predetermined number of the inner yoke-attachment magnetic core sub-pieces to each other in a caulking manner; forming an intermediate assembly in which the inner yoke sub-portions form a ring shape by winding a coil on the inner yoke-attachment laminated magnetic sub-body and connecting the ends of the inner yoke sub-portions in a predetermined number of the inner yoke-attachment laminated magnetic sub-bodies to each other; and coupling the inner yoke-attachment laminated magnetic sub-bodies to the outer laminated yoke body by shrink-fitting the outer laminated yoke body to the outer circumference of the intermediate assembly.
US08205320B2 Method of manufacturing a rotating electric machine
There is provided a rotating electric machine capable of reducing torque pulsation, even when a slight stepped portion is present in an inner diameter shape of a stator core formed by allowing split cores divided in every magnetic pole to be in an annular shape. The stator core is formed by stacking a plurality of laminates prepared by stack of split core members formed by punching steel sheets and arranged in an annular shape in a state where the laminates are rotated one another by a predetermined angle. With such a configuration, it is possible to mutually offset torque pulsation components caused by the shape asymmetry of the laminates and reduce the torque pulsation components of the stator core on the whole.
US08205317B2 Method of manufacturing a controlled porosity stent
A method of manufacturing a stent includes forming a stent blank including a predetermined alloy composition, the alloy composition including at least base element and at least one sacrificial element and forming a stent framework from the stent blank. The method further includes removing at least a portion of the sacrificial element and forming at least one pore based on the removal. A method of manufacturing a vascular treatment system includes forming a stent blank including a predetermined alloy composition including at least one base element and at least one sacrificial element. The method further includes forming a stent framework and removing at least a portion of the sacrificial element. The method also includes forming at least one pore based on the removal, bending the stent framework to a delivery shape, and attaching the bent stent framework including the formed pores to a catheter.
US08205316B2 Method for fastening a cord lock device on a fabric
A method for fastening a cord lock on a fabric is provided. The method includes the following steps: (a) providing a cord lock with at least one through hole in which at least one cord may pass, wherein the cord lock has an inner lateral wall extended upwards from a lower surface thereof to an inner surface thereof to define a recess portion; (b) providing a buckling element, wherein the buckling element has a protrusion protruded upwards from an outer surface thereof; (c) disposing the buckling element on the fabric via the protrusion passing an aperture of the fabric; and (d) fastening the cord lock onto the buckling element and the fabric via the protrusion received in the recess portion.
US08205315B2 Composite tube assemblies and methods of forming the same
A composite tube assembly and a method of making the same are provided. The composite tube assembly includes a composite tube and a fitting penetrating the composite tube. The fitting includes a reduced diameter section surrounded by a reduced diameter tube portion of the tube. A bolstering structure surrounds this reduced diameter tube portion. The method includes inserting the fitting into the composite tube, heating the tube portion surrounding the fitting to soften the same, radially compressing the tube portion onto the fitting reduced diameter section, and providing a bolstering structure surrounding the compressed tube portion.
US08205314B1 Reversible cable covering for use in chroma key videography
A method for providing a colored mask for a cable, wire or rope that can be quickly changed between two colors. A sheath covering is provided for a flexible element, such as a cable. The sheath covering has a length, a first side, an opposite second side, and two side edges. The first side of the sheath covering is pigmented in a first key color. Conversely, the second side of each sheath covering is pigmented in a second key color. The sheath covering is formed into a tubular structure around the flexible element. Depending upon which way the sheath covering is curved, either the first side or the second side can become the visible exterior of the tubular structure. Accordingly, to mask a flexible element in a first color, the sheathing covering is positioned around the flexible element. To change the color, the sheathing covering is merely inverted.
US08205308B2 Friction clamp
A clamping mechanism, including: a deformable body configured to provide a friction fit with at least one element to which it is fitted, at least one slot in the deformable body, wherein the slot traverses at least a portion of the longitudinal and latitudinal direction of the body.
US08205306B2 Zipper pull repair apparatus
The present invention discloses a single-part zipper pull comprised of two rotatable halves secured together on a pin. On one end of the zipper pull is a handle by which fingers can grasp the pull. On the other end of the zipper pull are clasps to latch to the zipper slider. The complete clasp is made up of the two J hooks, one on each half. The handle is made complete by rotating the two halves of the zipper pull together. In the open position, the J hooks have a gap by which to engage the zipper slider crown. In the closed position, the clasps come together making a complete loop thereby securing to the zipper slider crown. Once the zipper pull tab is closed, a latch and receiver engage to prevent the two halves from rotating to an open position.
US08205302B2 Hinge assembly
A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a rotary member, and a tube. The rotary member includes a friction body and is fixed to the shaft. The tube rotatably engages with the friction body of the rotary member. When the tube rotates to a predetermined position relative to the rotary member, the friction body deforms, thereby generating friction between the friction body and the tube.
US08205300B2 Hinge structure
A hinge structure includes a first bracket, a fastener, a second bracket and a resilient member. The fastener is secured on the first bracket. The second bracket is rotatably fixed on the first bracket about the fastener. The second bracket is set in a first position near the first bracket. The resilient member is mounted around the fastener to bias the first bracket towards the second bracket.
US08205298B2 Hinge
A hinge includes a base receiving a coupling device detachably mounted onto a mounting seat. An outer resilient plate includes an end pivotably mounted onto the base. A fixed seat is pivotably mounted onto the other end of the outer resilient plate. A buffer device includes a connecting member, a buffer, and an inner resilient plate. Each of a first pivot hole of the connecting member, an end of the buffer, and an end of the inner resilient plate is pivotably mounted onto the base. The other end of the buffer is pivotably mounted onto a second pivot hole of the connecting member. The other end of the inner resilient plate is slideably mounted onto an arcuate slot of the connecting member. The inner resilient plate further includes a fulcrum pivot hole intermediate the ends thereof. The fulcrum pivot hole is pivotably mounted by a pivot to the base.
US08205294B2 Vacuum cleaner having suction path switching unit
A vacuum cleaner having a suction path switching unit is provided that includes a cleaner body having a body frame; a suction inlet body hinged to the body frame; an extension pipe assembly having a hose and an extension pipe connected in fluid communication with the hose; and a suction path switching unit disposed on the body frame. The suction path switching unit has a switching duct, at least a portion of which is elastically arranged on a suction path to be displaceable on the suction path. As the extension pipe is fixed on or separated from the body frame, the switching duct is selectively displaced to a first position of opening a first suction path flowing from the suction inlet body to the dust collecting unit or a second position of opening a second suction path flowing from the extension pipe to the dust collecting unit.
US08205292B1 Wiper arm having swivel cover allowing access to the head and pivot shaft
A windshield wiper arm assembly that is adapted to support a wiper blade as it moves across a surface to be wiped. The windshield wiper arm assembly includes a body and a head supported by the body and adapted to be mounted to a pivot shaft that defines a pivot axis P and drives the wiper blade in an oscillating manner across the surface to be wiped. The body also includes an opening providing access to the head mounted to the pivot shaft. A cover is mounted to the body at the opening and is movable about an axis A substantially parallel to the pivot axis P from a first position closing the opening to a second position allowing access to the head.
US08205286B1 Pillow for female breasts
A pillow for female breasts, comprising a pillow comprising a first lateral wall, and top and bottom walls. The top wall has first and second openings. The first and second openings receive each breast of a woman when lying thereon. A protective cover comprises a first upper portion, a bottom portion, and a second lateral wall. The first upper portion has first and second interior sidewalls that align with and fit within the first and second openings respectively. An outer cover comprises a second upper portion and a third lateral wall. The second upper portion has first and second pocket members that align with and fit within the first and second interior sidewalls that in turn align with and fit within the first and second openings respectively. The protective cover is dressed on the pillow, and the outer cover is dressed on the protective cover and the pillow.
US08205284B2 Nursing pillow
A prenatal/postnatal pillow is disclosed. The pillow includes a body with a first end, a medial portion, and a second end. The pillow may possess a generally C-shaped structure defining an interior well operable to curve around a body part of a user. The interior of the pillow body defines a cavity, which may include a series of cells containing a predetermined amount of fill material. The ends of the pillow body may include fasteners that connect to draw the ends of the pillow together, forming a compact support surface. The pillow also includes an internal compartment for storing articles such as blankets, bottles, etc.
US08205283B1 Travel face pillow
A travel face pillow provides a portable soft cushion for resting while supporting the head. The travel face pillow may comprise a face support pillow having a left hand pillow and a right hand pillow with the left hand pillow and a right hand pillow centered approximately 180 degrees from each other with the face support pillow surrounding a face opening, a head opening surrounding the face support pillow wherein the head opening is larger than the face opening, a pair of hand entrance slots extending between the head opening and the face opening with each of the pair of hand entrance slots aligned for providing hand access to one of a pair of hand pockets wherein each of the pair of hand pockets is adjacent to a one of the left hand pillow and the right hand pillow respectively, and a pair of thumb cushion tabs coupled to the face support pillow at the head opening with each one of the pair of thumb cushion tabs coupled and aligned respectively to one of the pair of hand pockets for receiving, and an outer surface surrounding the face support pillow.
US08205277B2 Manufacturing method for micro-nano bubble bathtub water and micro-nano bubble bathtub
In the upper part and the lower part of a micro-nano bubble generation section 34 in a micro-nano bubble bathtub 1, two kinds of micro-nano bubbles different in a size distribution are generated by first and second micro-nano bubble generators (submerged pump-type micro-nano bubble generator 2 and spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) of two kinds, so that bathtub water containing micro-nano bubbles in a wide size distribution can be produced in a large amount. Some of the water containing micro-nano bubbles generated in the lower part is thrown into the first micro-nano bubble generator (spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10) in the upper part, so that the spiral flow-type micro-nano bubble generator 10 can generate micro-nano bubbles in a smaller size. Therefore, in this bathtub, micro-nano bubbles abundant in size and large in amount can be produced economically.
US08205269B2 Golf glove
Disclosed herein is an improved golf glove for ensuring proper grip and alignment when worn by a user while playing golf. The glove can include several restrictors located between the thumb and fingers of the glove to prevent the fingers from separating, while still allowing the ends of each finger to move freely.