最新美国发明专利第2012-08-07期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08236001B2	Instrument for preparing and/or machining a femoral head The invention relates to an instrument for preparing and/or machining a femoral head (11) embodied on a femoral neck (19). Said instrument comprises tactile forceps (91) that are provided with two forked levers (13, 15) and two tactile jaws (23, 25), each of which is assigned to one of the forked levers (13, 15). The forked levers are interconnected at a fulcrum (93). The inventive instrument features a manipulating end and a working end. The tactile jaws are located at the working end of the instrument. A guiding element (28) is provided which encompasses a centering pin (21) and is mounted and/or guided at least at two points (105, 107) spaced apart from each other in the direction of the centering pin (21) in such a way that the centering pin (21) always lies on a central plane (12) of the tactile forceps (91) regardless of an opening angle of the tactile forceps (91), said central plane (12) containing the fulcrum (93). The bearing and/or guiding points (105, 107) are directly and/or indirectly hinged to the tactile forceps (91).
US08235999B2	Configured and sized cannula A dilator retractor and the dilators that are used for minimally invasive spinal surgery or other surgery are configured to accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient as by configuring the cross sectional area in an elliptical shape, or by forming a funnel configuration with the wider end at the proximate end. In some embodiments the distal end is contoured to also accommodate the anatomical structure of the patient so that a cylindrically shaped, funnel shaped, ovoid shaped dilator retractor can be sloped or tunneled to accommodate the bone structure of the patient or provide access for implants. The dilator retractor is made with different lengths to accommodate the depth of the cavity formed by the dilators.
US08235998B2	Instruments and methods for in situ bending of an elongate spinal implant Systems, instruments and methods are provided for bending an elongate spinal implant used in a medical procedure. In one form, an instrument for bending an elongate spinal implant includes a proximal handle portion and a bending mechanism having an implant engaging member movably coupled to the proximal handle portion. The bending mechanism is operable to articulate the implant engaging member relative to the proximal handle portion while a second implant engaging member associated with the articulating implant engaging member holding the elongate spinal implant in position. In another form, systems and methods are provided to bend in situ an elongate spinal implant associated with an orthopedic construct.
US08235997B2	Rod locking instrument Instruments and methods are provided for securing a spinal rod in one or more coupling devices secured to the spine by one or more anchor members. The instruments include members for grasping the coupling device and members for shifting one or more elements along a linear path to fix the position of an anchor member and/or fix the position of the rod with respect to the vertebra.
US08235993B2	Insulating boot for electrosurgical forceps with exohinged structure An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof that are movable about a pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue. A movable handle is included that actuates the shaft to move the jaw members relative to one another. One or both of the jaw members are adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy to tissue held therebetween. An insulating boot is disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members, about the pivot and at a distal end of the shaft. The insulating boot includes an inner flexible portion and an outer shell that is operably engaged with one or both of the pair of jaw members.
US08235991B2	Electrosurgical apparatus and method for coagulative treatments through radiofrequency An apparatus for electrosurgery (1) comprising a plurality of adjacent electrodes (2-5) arranged aligned and an electrosurgical current generator (6), connected or connectable to the electrodes (2-5) to induce the flowing of an electrosurgical current through the tissue portions interposed thereamong, wherein said generator (6) powers the electrodes (2-5) so that each electrode lies at a potential (V3-V5) greater than that of the electrode preceding it in the sequence.
US08235989B2	Method and device for non-thermal electrically-induced closure of blood vessels by occlusion Methods and devices for the non-thermal, electrically-induced temporary or permanent closure of blood vessels. Methods and devices employ pulsed electrical energy according to a defined regime to effect controlled occlusion of targeted blood vessels without heating the vessel and with minimal damage to adjacent tissue. The extent of vessel closure, i.e., temporary (vasoconstriction) or permanent (thrombosis), is controlled based on the manipulation of various parameters of the electrical stimulation regime as well as the configuration of the electrodes used to apply the regime.
US08235987B2	Thermal penetration and arc length controllable electrosurgical pencil An electrosurgical pencil is provided, which includes an elongated housing, an electrocautery electrode supported within the housing and extending distally from the housing. The electrocautery electrode is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy. The pencil also includes at least one voltage divider network supported on the housing and electrically connected to the source of electrosurgical energy for controlling intensity, frequency, and/or mode of electrosurgical energy being delivered to the electrocautery electrode.
US08235983B2	Systems and methods for delivering energy to passageways in a patient Systems and methods for delivering energy to passageways in a patient, such as airways in the lung of a patient for treating asthma. One embodiment of a method for delivering energy to a passageway comprises positioning an access device in a lung airway of a patient and advancing an elongated body of a treatment device along the access device until an energy delivery unit at a distal portion of the elongated body projects from the access device. The method can further include expanding the energy delivery unit such that energy delivery elements contact a sidewall of the airway and activating an energy supply coupled to the treatment device such that energy is delivered to the sidewall of the airway. A single person physically operates both the access device and the treatment device while expanding the energy delivery unit and activating the energy supply.
US08235982B2	Electrosurgical system having a sensor for monitoring smoke or aerosols An electrosurgical system includes an evacuator apparatus and a sensor. The evacuator apparatus evacuates aerosol and smoke generated during application of electrosurgical energy. The sensor is operatively coupled to the evacuator apparatus and senses the aerosol and smoke generated during application of the electrosurgical energy. The sensor generates data in response to the sensed aerosol and smoke. The sensor operatively communicates the data to the evacuator apparatus and the evacuator apparatus evacuates the aerosol and smoke as a function of the data.
US08235981B2	Electrosurgical devices with directional radiation pattern A device for directing energy to a target volume of tissue includes an antenna assembly and an elongated body member. The elongated body member includes a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, wherein the proximal and distal end portions define a longitudinal axis. The elongated body member has a chamber defined therein that extends along the longitudinal axis, and a body wall surrounding the chamber. An antenna assembly is disposed in the chamber. The elongated body member also includes an opening in the body wall to allow energy radiated from the antenna assembly to transfer into the target volume of tissue.
US08235976B2	Cryo-temperature monitoring Devices and methods for cold-treating lesions within the body. A temperature monitoring device for use with a cryo therapy apparatus may include a cryo therapy apparatus, one or more tubular members coupled to the cryo therapy apparatus, and a temperature monitoring member coupled to the tubular member. The temperature monitoring member may comprise a retractable needle, an infrared sensor, an ultrasound transmitter, or a stent having a plurality of spikes.
US08235974B2	Method for hair removal A method for hair removal from a skin area by selective photo-inactivation of the pilo-sebaceous apparatus using derivatives of ALA with alkylene-glycol chains. Selectivity of the method is further enhanced by treatment of the epidermis by agents reducing PpIX levels in the epidermis. Side effects are diminished by using short drug/light intervals.
US08235970B2	Device affixing tubes to a cannula A medical device including: a cannula, a first tube joined to the cannula; a second tube joined to the cannula; and a unitary fastener secured to the first tube, cannula and second tube, the fastener being subject to opposing forces from the first and second tubes.
US08235967B2	Safety assembly for a syringe A safety support device for a syringe comprises a support sheath (16) for the body (10) of the syringe and an inner sheath (18) suitable for sliding relative to the support sheath between a waiting, retracted position and the extended position for protecting the needle (14) of the syringe. The device has means for holding the syringe body (10) relative to the support sheath (16) and retaining means (30, 32, 22) suitable for being activated to retain the inner sheath in the waiting, retracted position inside the support sheath and for being deactivated by the piston (12) of the syringe to allow the inner sheath (18) to extend into its protective, extended position.
US08235964B2	Pant-like absorbent article and a method for making it A pant-type absorbent article having a first body panel and a second body panel, the first and second body panels being interconnected by side panels. The respective side panel is formed by a bridge member having a first longitudinal edge portion attached to the first body panel and a second longitudinal edge portion attached to the second body panel, the bridge before use of the article being folded in an accordion-like fashion and can be extended and unfolded when the article is to be used so as to form the side panels of the article. In one embodiment at least one of the bridge members is refastenably attached to one body panel, wherein a first fastening member is arranged on the bridge member at or close to one longitudinal edge portion thereof and a complementary second fastening member is arranged on the respective body panel.
US08235962B2	Absorbent pant garments having optimized leg opening shape An absorbent pant garment having a leg opening shape and fastener placement that, together, minimize the likelihood of fastener pop-opens during use. The garment includes a pair of front and back side panels on opposite transverse sides of the garment, with a refastenable seam formed between the front and back side panels including a fastening component on the front side panel and a mating fastening component on the back side panel, with elasticity in the front and/or back side panel. Each of the front and back side panels includes a waist end edge and a leg end edge, with a portion of the waist end edge and a portion of the leg end edge substantially parallel to one another adjacent a distal edge for a distance greater than a transverse width of the fastening component or mating fastening component bonded thereto. These parallel portions of the side panel edges space the fastening components and mating fastening components away from major stress points of the garment, thereby reducing the likelihood of fastener pop-opens.
US08235961B2	Disposable pants-type diaper A disposable pants-type diaper of the present invention comprises a diaper main body including a front portion, a back portion, and a crotch portion positioned therebetween, and having a waist opening and a pair of leg openings formed by joining the front portion and the back portion; an absorbent core disposed in the crotch portion; a first elastic means disposed along an upper part of an edge of the both leg openings; and a second elastic means disposed in a middle part in a front-back direction of the crotch portion, extending in a diaper width direction to near the edge of the both leg openings, and having straight side edge portions. According to the disposable pants-type diaper of the above, a foot is hardly caught by the edge of the leg opening in wearing, resulting in easily wearing; and a fitting property of the crotch portion is excellent.
US08235960B2	Absorbent product In an absorbent product in which an absorbent sheet member having an opening and a back sheet are overlapped, a rear pocket is formed between a rear absorbent core of the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet, and side pockets are formed on both sides of the opening. By contracting elastic members bonded to a core covering sheet on the both sides of the opening, the core covering sheet of the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet largely stand up in each side pocket, and the rear absorbent core is raised upward. Thus, it is possible to keep the distance large in a thickness direction between the absorbent sheet member and the back sheet in the vicinity of the opening and to fit a portion around the opening of the absorbent sheet member to a wearer.
US08235958B2	Absorbent article and method for producing absorbent article The invention provides an absorbent article that is small and that can be easily worn by a user and a method for producing the absorbent article.The absorbent article that is used in abutment against a user's body includes: an absorbent body for absorbing fluid; and an absorbent-article main body whose face on a side close to the user's body in use is joined to the absorbent body. The absorbent body has a longitudinal direction, a width direction, and a thickness direction. One end section of the absorbent body in the longitudinal direction is undetachably joined to the absorbent-article main body, and another end section of the absorbent body in the longitudinal direction is detachably joined to a portion inside an outer edge of the absorbent-article main body. The absorbent body has a non-joined section that is not joined to the absorbent-article main body, between the joined section on a side close to the other end section and the outer edge of the absorbent-article main body.
US08235957B2	Absorbent article with sublayer An absorbent article includes a backsheet and a sublayer. The sublayer including at least a first acquisition layer and a second acquisition layer. The sublayer includes one or more areas with a plurality of combined holes. The combined holes are formed by holes extending through the first acquisition layer and holes in or extending through the second acquisition layer, or by holes in or extending through the second acquisition layer and indentations in the first acquisition layer. The combined holes have an average smallest dimension of at least 2 mm, and the surface areas of the holes through the first layer, or of the indentations in the first layer, are less than the corresponding surface areas of the holes in or through the second layer.
US08235953B2	Metering device and method for operating same A metering device, a metering element, and a method for operating same, the metering element having a storage container open on one side for receiving the substances to be metered and a plunger which is axially movable and reversibly seals the opening of the storage container and which preferably has at least one centrally located metering opening for metering the substances provided in the storage container, the plunger including a separation device for particles.
US08235952B2	Auto injector The present invention relates to a disposable injection device for delivering a dose of medicament, comprising a generally elongated housing (10), a container (14) containing medicament to be injected through a needle (16), force means (34) acting on said container and capable of, upon activation, move said container and said needle for penetration and subsequently expelling medicament through said needle, activating means (26) arranged to activate said force means, characterized in that said activating means comprises a needle shield (12) arranged slidable in relation to said housing, a collapsible holding member (58) connected to the inner end of said needle shield, whereby, upon movement of said needle shield, said collapsible holding member collapses when a certain force is applied by the needle shield, and whereby further movement of said needle shield activates said activation means, which in turn releases said force means initiating an injection of medicament.
US08235951B2	Attachment for a syringe or cartridge The invention relates to an attachment for a syringe or cartridge having a cannula, wherein the attachment comprises a sealing element, which is molded onto the cannula.
US08235945B2	Safety device to cover the needle tip of intravenous catheter apparatus A safety device for the needle of intravenous catheter apparatus comprising of a tip blocker which blocks the needle tip, a spring assembled in compressed state held by a disc inside the groove of the tip blocker which pushes the tip blocker downwards and a bush fitted in the needle passageway which does not allow the needle to come out of the safety device. The safety device is capable of locking inside it and covering the needle tip so that the needle of intravenous catheter apparatus can be disposed of safely.
US08235937B2	Device and method for delivering micronized therapeutic agents in the body The present invention provides a catheter and catheter assembly for delivering micronized therapeutic agents to a target site in the body and, in particular, to a target site in the heart. The micronized therapeutic agents are delivered in aerosol form or dry powder form. The present invention also provides a method of delivering micronized therapeutic agents to a target site in the body by placing the therapeutic agents in a catheter, positioning the catheter in the target site, and exposing the therapeutic agents to an energizing mechanism sufficient to create supersonic flow to carry the therapeutic agents from a stationary state in the catheter to a mobile state towards the target site.
US08235934B2	Functional thin tube device The object of the invention is to provide a functional thin tube device in which a pump and a liquid drawing device are constituted to be not separate without a sophisticated channel design and to correspond to various applications. A functional thin tube device includes a hollow tubular body, a plurality of vibrating ring bodies mounted as being kept in contact with the tubular body spaced an interval along an axial direction on an outer circumference of the tubular body, and an energy supply means of energy for vibrating the vibrating ring bodies. The energy supply means is constituted to supply energy such that the displacement caused by vibrations is mutually different among the vibrating ring bodies.
US08235931B2	Waste balancing for extracorporeal blood treatment systems One or more waste balancing systems may be used in a fluid circulating system for medical use. The fluid circulating system may be part of a blood treatment system for a patient suffering renal failure. A waste balancing system may include a pressure element operable to maintain a constant fluid pressure created by the combined weight of waste removed from a patient and replacement fluid for providing to a patient. Multiple evaluation characteristics or control parameters may be evaluated or controlled for safety and accuracy. At least part of the waste balancing system may be incorporated into a disposable cartridge.
US08235926B2	Brace for restraining shoulder movement A shoulder brace comprises a girdle, at least one tether connected to the girdle, and an arm band connected to the at least one tether. In one embodiment, the girdle includes at least one pad holder in the form of a pocket. The at least one tether is fastened at one end to the girdle. The opposite end of the tether is fastened to an arm band. The arm band of the brace may be provided as part of a separate flexible strip of material or may be integral with the opposite end of the tether. The arm band is fashioned to wrap around the arm of an athlete. With the tether secured to both the girdle and the arm band, the range of movement of the athlete's arm and shoulder is restricted.
US08235923B2	Compression device with removable portion A device for applying compression treatment to a part of a wearer's body comprises first and second inflatable bladders spaced apart from one another along an axis of the device. A line of weakness in a connecting section between the first and second bladders extends generally transverse to the axis of the device for selectively separating the inflatable bladders from one another. The device includes an overlying layer in generally opposing relationship to one of the first and second bladder layers. The overlying layer is discontinuous generally adjacent to the line of weakness to define terminal edge margins of the overlying layer extending generally along the line of weakness. Each of the terminal edge margins are connected to at least one of the first and second bladder layers on an opposite side of the line of weakness from the other terminal edge margin.
US08235921B2	Computerized portable device for the enhancement of circulation A portable limb-mounted device for enhancing blood and/or lymph flow in a limb and/or for preventing stasis related disorders, the device comprising an energy generating device, an actuator, one or more compressing elements for generating squeezing forces on the limb of a user, a sensor located adjacent to the body of the user and coupled to a transceiver device, and a transceiver device coupled to the sensor to receive signals generated by the sensor, to transfer the signals received from the sensor device to a computing device. The device further comprises a computerized control system including a microcontroller and a memory device to store activity related information for subsequent downloads to an external computer-based monitoring device.
US08235919B2	Ultrasonic method and device for wound treatment An apparatus and method are provided for generating ultrasonic energy from a non-contact distance from the surface of the wound; and delivering the generated ultrasonic energy to the wound through a gaseous medium. The generated ultrasonic energy has a significantly large amplitude such that the ultrasonic energy has an intensity capable of penetrating the wound tissue to a beneficial depth to provide a therapeutic effect for decreasing the healing time for the wound.
US08235916B2	System and method for manipulating insertion pathways for accessing target sites A method for accessing a target site in the body by transferring a guidewire from an initial insertion site on the body to a different insertion site on the body is provided. In one aspect, a method for transferring a medical device or component, such as a sensor lead, from an initial insertion site to another insertion site is also provided. A guidewire of sufficient length, pliancy and deformability to perform a transfer from one insertion site to another insertion site is provided. In one aspect, the guidewire comprises a removable core mandrel to increase rigidity, facilitate insertion and/or improve steerability. A kit or system, comprising introducers, guidewires and catheters for performing a guidewire or device transfer is also provided.
US08235912B2	Segmenting a cardiac acoustic signal The invention relates to segmentation of cardiac acoustic signals, such as the heart sound signal, based on statistical algorithms. A duration-dependent Hidden Markov Model is disclosed which models the shifting states of the heart, based on the cardiac acoustic signal and the time spent in the given states relating to physiological events, e.g. the various states of the heart during the heart beat cycle.
US08235909B2	Method and system for controlled scanning, imaging and/or therapy A method and system for three dimensional scanning, imaging and/or therapy are provided. In accordance with one aspect, an exemplary method and system are configured to facilitate controlled scanning within one-degree of freedom. For example, an exemplary method and system can enable multiple two-dimensional image planes to be collected in a manner to provide an accurate and computationally efficient three-dimensional image reconstruction while providing the user with a user-friendly mechanism for acquiring three-dimensional images. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary scanning and imaging system comprises an imaging probe, a control system, a positioning system and a display system. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the positioning system comprises a guide assembly and a position sensing system. The guide assembly is configured to provide pure rectilinear or rotational motion of the probe during scanning operation while the position sensing system is configured to detect the direction and position of the probe during scanning.
US08235908B2	Blood vessel sensing catheter having working lumen for medical appliances Devices and methods are disclosed for providing a sensing element to scan tissue and detect the presence of structures within the tissue to avoid the structures when performing a procedure on the tissue. A catheter includes a blood vessel sensing assembly and a working lumen adapted to receive a medical appliance or instrument for performing various medical procedures.
US08235906B2	System and method for accelerated focused ultrasound imaging A system and method for performing accelerated ultrasound imaging provides significant increases in image acquisition speed using substantially simultaneous transmission of a plurality of ultrasound beams into an object being imaged. The resulting acquired echo signal contributions resulting from the reflection of the simultaneously transmitted beams off different features of the object being imaged are separated by employing a spatial decoding scheme. The spatial decoding scheme characterizes how received signals from features within the object being imaged are measured differently by each of the elements of an ultrasound transducer. The present invention may further include a temporal encoding and decoding scheme, which includes the modulation of a potion of the ultrasound beams transmitted during a portion of ultrasound data acquisition periods, to provide improved separation of the signal components from different features.
US08235903B2	Remotely controlled implantable transducer and associated displays and controls An implantable, remotely controlled medical device that incorporates an imaging/therapy ultrasound system may be minimally invasive and equipped with an anchoring portion for securing the device within a human body. Transducers for imaging/therapy may be manipulated remotely using motors and/or selectively actuated to obtain different fields of view and stereoscopic imaging. The implantable medical device can be in the shape of a disc, double disc, sphere or pellet, for example, and may be implanted during open surgery using a manipulatable tool or using a minimally invasive image-guided sheath or catheter. The imaging system comprises one or more ultrasound transducers and can be used to provide therapy to or obtain ultrasound images of a target and surrounding volumes or focal points. The device may be controlled and report data by wired or wireless means and, if wireless, permanently worn inside the body as the patient follows their normal daily routine.
US08235902B2	System and method for tissue change monitoring during HIFU treatment A method and apparatus is disclosed for determining the presence of tissue change due to exposure to HIFU Therapy.
US08235897B2	Device for non-invasively measuring glucose In order to increase the accuracy of non-invasive glucose measurement, the device uses a combination of three non-invasive methods: ultrasonic, electromagnetic and thermal. The non-invasive glucose monitor comprises a Main Unit, which drives three different sensor channels (one per technology), located on an external unit configured as an ear clip attached to the subject's ear lobe. To effect the ultrasonic channel, ultrasonic piezo elements are positioned on opposing portions of the ear clip and thus opposite sides of the ear lobe. For implementation of the electromagnetic channel, capacitor plates are positioned on opposing portions of the ear clip and the ear lobe serves as the dielectric. The thermal channel includes a heater and a sensor positioned on the ear clip in close juxtaposition to the ear lobe.
US08235896B2	Analyte monitoring device and methods of use An analyte monitor includes a sensor, a sensor control unit, and a display unit. The sensor has, for example, a substrate, a recessed channel formed in the substrate, and conductive material disposed in the recessed channel to form a working electrode. The sensor control unit typically has a housing adapted for placement on skin and is adapted to receive a portion of an electrochemical sensor. The sensor control unit also includes two or more conductive contacts disposed on the housing and configured for coupling to two or more contact pads on the sensor. A transmitter is disposed in the housing and coupled to the plurality of conductive contacts for transmitting data obtained using the sensor. The display unit has a receiver for receiving data transmitted by the transmitter of the sensor control unit and a display coupled to the receiver for displaying an indication of a level of an analyte. The analyte monitor may also be part of a drug delivery system to alter the level of the analyte based on the data obtained using the sensor.
US08235892B2	Laryngoscope dental protection device A dental protection device for a laryngoscope includes an elongated pad with a top surface and a bottom surface, an adhesive applied to the bottom surface and a pull-tab attached to the pad.
US08235887B2	Endoscope assembly with retroscope An endoscope includes an insertion tube having a distal end and an imaging device with a steerable extension. The proximal end of the extension is attached to the distal end of the insertion tube. An endoscope includes an insertion tube having a distal end region and a rear-viewing imaging device at least partially disposed inside the distal end region. An endoscope includes an insertion tube having a distal end cap, an imaging device, and a link that couples the imaging device to the distal end cap of the insertion tube.
US08235886B2	Implantable fixation assembly for removably securing medical device An implantable fixation assembly (30) for removably securing a (medical) device in a human body is disclosed. The assembly includes: an anchor portion (1) securable to bone; a pair of spaced apart legs (15), at least one leg (15) being resiliently flexible, the ends (15a) of the legs (15) attached to the anchor portion (1); a clamp portion (2) attached towards or at the ends (15a) of the legs (15); a screw and nut combination having an axis of rotation longitudinal to the legs, the combination operably engaging at least one of the legs (15) so as to pull them together or push them apart thereby actuating the clamp portion (2) to secure the device, wherein the actuating is reversible for selectively gripping and releasing the device.
US08235884B2	Cardiac tissue energy dispersion device An electromagnetic cardiac assembly adapted to assist ventricular output in a human heart includes a magnetic mat adapted for mounting inside a human body near the heart. The mat is made from a material responsive to application of an electromagnetic field so as to be movable into compressive relation with the heart in response to application of the electromagnetic field thereto and movable out of said compressive relation to permit the heart to relax when application of the electromagnetic field is discontinued. The assembly also includes an electromagnetic subassembly adapted for mounting on the human body in functionally cooperative relation with respect to the mat, and an energy dispersion device adapted for mounting between the mat and the heart. The energy dispersion device is constructed and arranged to disperse energy between the mat and the heart.
US08235883B2	Sharps disposal system A sharps disposal system for safely collecting and disposing of medical sharps includes a cabinet defining an enclosure for receiving a removable used sharps receptacle therein. The cabinet includes a passageway through which sharps may be deposited in the sharps receptacle. A single lock, double door design facilitates safe removal and disposal of sharps deposited in the sharps receptacle.
US08235882B2	Decanter centrifuge with a hinged lid A centrifuge housing has a lid with a hinge with two hinge parts and a horizontal hinge axis. The lid is able to rotate between a closed position, in which the lid's centre of gravity is positioned on one side of a vertical plane through the hinge axis, and a fully opened position, in which the centre of gravity is positioned on the other side of the vertical plane. A longitudinal spring is connected to a connection member for urging it longitudinally. The connection member is connected at a hinge point at a distance from the hinge axis. The spring assists raising the lid initially during opening and closing the lid initially during closing from the fully opened position. The lid has a position of stable equilibrium in an intermediate position between the closed position and a vertical position.
US08235881B2	Folder with signature support and method A method for folding signatures is provided. The method includes the steps of forcing a trail edge of a first signature away from a folding cylinder using a signature support, tucking a second signature held by a gripper using a tucker at a first fold location and performing a mode change to tuck a further signature at a second fold location different from the first fold location, the mode change including moving the gripper and the signature support automatically with respect to the tucker. A signature support is also provided.
US08235880B2	Apparatus and methods of packaging golf balls Embodiments include a golf ball packaging box that can be converted into a putting aid. The golf ball packaging box is configurable to be positioned in a first configuration to package golf balls for sale and is configurable to be positioned in a second configuration to present a putting aid.
US08235870B2	Method and apparatus for integrating physical exercise and interactive multimedia A physical exercise apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing. The method through instruction and gaming can be delivered auditorially and/or visually, through interactive multimedia systems, on a timed and/or touch sensitive system, as well as an array of different technologies such as the internet.
US08235868B2	Clutch control apparatus for vehicle A clutch control apparatus for a vehicle provided with a hydraulic clutch in the middle of a power transmission path between an engine and a drive wheel. Before the clutch of the vehicle is brought into an engagement state, intermittent hydraulic pressure Y is applied to the clutch while maintaining the clutch in a disengagement state, and thereafter a predetermined hydraulic pressure is applied to the clutch to bring it into the engagement state. A solenoid valve is provided to control hydraulic pressure supplied to the clutch. Before the clutch is brought into the engagement state, a pulsed drive current D is supplied to the solenoid valve. The clutch control apparatus so configured suppresses a motion delay at the time of engaging the clutch, thereby allowing a quick and smooth start and shifting of the clutch.
US08235861B2	Split torque compound planetary drivetrain for wind turbine applications A compound planetary gear transmission unit includes a second stage with axially staggered planets.
US08235855B2	Hydraulic control apparatus for automatic transmission A hydraulic control apparatus for an automatic transmission includes linear solenoid valves each configured to control a line pressure in accordance with an electromagnetic force of a solenoid. The linear solenoid valves each include a spool and are controlled under a normal hydraulic control mode or a current consumption decrease mode. The spool is actuated in accordance with the electromagnetic force. An output fluid pressure is controlled to be a maximum output fluid pressure from a minimum output fluid pressure with the spool at a balanced position under the normal hydraulic control mode. A current consumption for generating the electromagnetic force is decreased to make the fluid pressure equal to or lower than the minimum output fluid pressure under the normal hydraulic control mode and to hold the fluid pressure within a range corresponding to the balanced position under the current consumption decrease mode.
US08235853B2	Hybrid transmissions with planetary gearsets A transmission for use in a motor vehicle having an engine and a driveline is provided. The transmission includes an input shaft driven by the engine, an output shaft adapted for connection to the driveline, a mainshaft, a first planetary gearset, a motor/generator and a second planetary gearset. The first planetary gearset includes a first input member driven by the input shaft, a first output member driving the mainshaft and a first reaction member. The second planetary gearset includes a second input member, a second output member fixed to the output shaft and a ring gear operable to drive or be driven by the motor/generator. A rotor of the motor/generator circumscribes and is fixed to the ring gear.
US08235852B2	Power transmission belt A power transmission belt having a body with a rubber layer defining spaced friction drive surfaces at laterally oppositely facing side surfaces. Short reinforcing fibers are embedded in the rubber layer in an amount of 15-50 parts by weight per 100 weight percent of rubber in the rubber layer. The short reinforcing fibers include polyamide short reinforcing fibers that make up at least 50 weight percent of the short reinforcing fibers embedded in the rubber layer. A plurality of the polyamide short reinforcing fibers project from the friction drive surfaces and have exposed, flattened ends. Flat particles of inorganic powder are adhered to the friction drive surfaces to reside captively between the flattened ends of the polyamide short reinforcing fibers and locations on the friction drive surfaces at which the short reinforcing fibers do not project.
US08235850B2	Multiple sprocket assembly A multiple sprocket assembly for a bicycle includes a larger diametrical sprocket and a smaller diametrical sprocket. The larger diametrical sprocket includes at least one auxiliary guiding portion for facilitating a bicycle chain to shift from the smaller diametrical sprocket to the larger diametrical sprocket.
US08235849B2	Combined chain ring protector and chain guide A combined chain guide and chain ring protector for a bicycle for off-road use having a lower bracket sleeve, a chain ring around which a drive chain extends and a chain ring outer radius. The protector includes a mounting bracket secured at the lower bracket sleeve and a guard mounted thereto. An outer edge of the guard extends beyond the outer radius of the chain ring, thereby protecting a portion of the chain ring from inadvertent impacts. The chain guide extends from the mounting bracket along a path of the drive chain, and preferably includes an upper guide having an inner barrier positioned inboard of the bicycle chain an outer barrier positioned outboard of the inner barrier and an upper barrier positioned above the bicycle chain for preventing the chain from derailing from the chain ring in an upward direction.
US08235848B2	Vehicle transmission having continuously variable transmission ratio A vehicle transmission with continuously variable transmission ratios, which has a first conical disk pair arranged on a first shaft, and a second conical disk pair arranged on a second shaft, a belt arranged between the conical disk pairs, and an input shaft which has an output wheel mounted rotatably thereon. The input shaft can optionally be rotationally engaged with the first or second shaft and the output wheel can be rotationally engaged with the respectively other shaft. Also, a multi-disk clutch transmits a rotational force between the input shaft and the first or second shaft and the output wheel can be rotationally engaged with the other shaft by way of a dog clutch. The first multi-disk clutch and the first dog clutch can be actuated by a first hydraulically actuated device and the second multi-disk clutch and the second dog clutch can be actuated by a second hydraulically actuated device.
US08235845B2	Variable density core golf balls A golf ball is provided having a modified density gradient among the inner layers to produce a desired high or low moment of inertia and controlled spin rate is disclosed. The golf ball has three or more inner layers in addition to a cover, and the density of the inner layers is selected such that the layers inside the cover have a density progression from the core to the cover or from the cover to the core.
US08235843B1	Golf club head with composite weight port A golf club head having a face component, a crown, and a composite sole or a composite body patch with one or more weight ports for receiving one or more weight inserts is disclosed herein. At least part of each of the weight ports is integrally formed in the composite sole or composite body patch, and each of the weight ports include a weight receiving region for receiving a weight and a screw receiving region for receiving a screw that secures the weight in the weight port.
US08235839B2	Interchangeable shaft system A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discreet orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08235838B2	Temporary golf club shaft-component connection A temporary shaft-component connection for assembling a selected golf club shaft with a club head and/or hand grip segment, to facilitate custom club design and fitting to suit the needs and preferences of an individual golfer. The temporary shaft-component connection is particularly designed for use with nonmetallic club shafts formed from a graphite-based composite material or the like having a range of different lengths and stiffness (whip) characteristics. In a shaft-head connection, a metal adapter insert is mounted onto a lower end of the club shaft and includes one or more flat surfaces for reception into a matingly shaped socket in the hosel of a selected club head to prevent relative rotation between the club shaft and head. A compression nut carried on the shaft is threaded onto the hosel to axially engage and retain a thrust flange on the shaft or adapter or adapter insert, to prevent axial separation of the club head and shaft.
US08235837B2	Interchangeable shaft system A golf club incorporating an interchangeable shaft system includes a shaft, a shaft sleeve, a club head. The shaft sleeve is coupled to an end of the shaft and is received in a hosel included in the club head. The shaft sleeve is removably coupled to the club head. Hosel and shaft sleeve alignment features provide discreet orientations between the shaft and club head.
US08235833B2	Transitioning hollow golf clubs The present invention relates to a set of golf club irons in which some of the club heads have a hollow space, and some of the club heads do not have a hollow space. The hollow space is preferably defined by a lower portion of the front face, a portion of the sole, and a rear wall. The presence of the hollow space moves the club head center of gravity back (away from the face) and down (toward the sole), making it easier to get a golf ball airborne. The volumes of the hollow spaces generally transition or get progressively smaller with an increase in the club loft angle, thus altering the center of gravity location and moments of inertia by different amounts for different clubs. The hollow spaces may be empty or filled, in whole or part.
US08235832B2	Set of iron clubs with constant ground roll A set of iron clubs where each club in the set has the same or substantially the same ground roll. The set is produced by adjusting at least two club design characteristics of the clubs based upon measured or assumed player swing data. The design characteristics of the clubs include club length, static clubhead loft, location of the center of gravity, shaft flexibility, and groove volume. Preferably, club length and static clubhead loft are adjusted for coarse adjustments, while the other characteristics are used to fine-tune the design.
US08235827B2	Compliant joint Disclosed is a compliant joint achieving passive compliance. The compliant joint includes a housing and a rotating member mutually rotatably provided; and a cam provided between the housing and the rotating member, and connected to the housing and the rotating member respectively. The cam is connected to the rotating member to rotate together with the rotation of the rotating member, or be independent of the rotating member so as to move in the axial direction of the rotating member separately from the rotating member. The cam is connected to the housing such that the cam can maintain the connection with the housing when external force below a designated value is applied to the rotating member, and release the connection with the housing in the case that external force more than the designated value is applied to the rotating member.
US08235825B2	Smart card holder for automated gaming system and gaming cards Methods and systems for intelligent tracking and/or play and/or management of card gaming use an intelligent card distribution or holding device with detectors for determine the value and unique identity of individual cards and for recording card play. In specific embodiments, the system utilizes various types of sensors and electronic circuits and software to scan, track, monitor, compute, and interface with electronic devices, to enable the automatic operation of Casino table games. The system can scan playing cards, scan gaming chips, indicate a players win/loss/draw, increase and or decrease player betting positions. Compute awards to players based on their playing activity, photograph individual players, and transmit player's images to casino security/surveillance departments and or other authorized casino personnel. The system may activate table displays that indicate each player's win/loss/draw of their bets, and or dealers card count, indicate in the game of blackjack when a dealer has blackjack, or any other significant event that occurs such as indicating when a player has a winning/loss/draw on specific card combinations.
US08235820B2	Gaming device system allowing photos to be downloaded as game indicia on gaming device and method of use A system and method for allowing users to select photos from social networking websites (e.g., Facebook®) or other dedicated websites for use with select gaming devices wherein the selected photos are used as game indicia (e.g., game reel indicia). Thus, instead of cherries and bars, the gaming device may depict photos of a player's girlfriend and pet. “Friends” of the player may also be able to observe the real-time gaming activities of the player via the social networking website or other dedicated website.
US08235815B1	Capture and utilization of real-world data for use in gaming systems such as video games A portable sensor unit for capturing motion and/or other data may be securely mounted on objects such as a user's limb, a vehicle, or other items. The sensor unit may then collect motion and/or other data from the object to which it is affixed, and may provide this data to a data logger which stores the data. The data logger may subsequently communicate the data to a gaming system which may tailor the motion characteristics of a virtual object to resemble those of the real-world object from which the motion data was captured. Thus, a user can (for example) capture motion data from a vehicle, with this data being supplied to a video gaming unit which provides a virtual vehicle having the same acceleration/deceleration, handling, and other characteristics.
US08235812B2	Gaming system having multiple player simultaneous display/input device A game table having a multiplayer interactive display/input device which enables multiple players to simultaneously play primary or base wagering games and/or secondary or bonus games using the display/input device. The display/input device enables multiple players to simultaneously interact with the game table and the various games using the same display/input device. The game table enables multiple players to manipulate displayed objects (such as virtual cards or other game symbols) displayed by the display/input device at the same time. This enables the display/input device to simultaneously display the same game to multiple players in an integrated seamless manner without the need for multiple different sets of display devices and input devices for each of the players.
US08235809B2	Gaming machine allowing a player to change the volatility of a game based on an amount of play history The present invention is a gaming machine for playing a game and paying out an award according to play results, comprising a detector which recognizes a play history of a player, an analyzer which analyzes the play history, a controller which changes a volatility of the game according to the play history, and an initiator which initiates the game with changed volatility.
US08235807B1	System for managing accounting A method for managing game accounting on at least one gaming machine comprising one or more active games is provided. The method comprises providing a memory means operatively connected to the gaming machine, wherein the memory means comprises a set of active game meters for each active game on the gaming machine, and one set of removed game meters accumulating data corresponding to all games removed from the gaming machine. Active game data is received and stored in applicable active game meters. For any removed game, the game state data is captured prior to the game's removal and is stored in the applicable accumulating removed game meters. The stored game data is accessed in the active and removed game meters and a theoretical win value is used to determine the overall gaming machine performance.
US08235805B2	Cashless computerized video game system and method A system and method for operating one or more games for a plurality of players including identifying at least two players participating in a selected one of the games at the expiration of a predetermined time period, and establishing a wager pool corresponding to a total of wager amounts from each of the identified players. The wager pool is reduced by a takeout amount. One or more random numbers are generated, and one or more winners of the selected game are determined based on the one or more random numbers. Funds are distributed from the wager pool to the determined one or more winners of the selected game.
US08235803B2	Gaming machines with normalized power consumption An exemplary power manager is adapted to supply power from a power supply to a first component of a gaming machine. The first component consumes a larger amount of current during a second time interval than during a first time interval, where the first component alternates between the first and second time intervals during operation. A rechargeable energy storage device is used to supply a substantial portion of the current to the first component during the second time interval from energy stored in the energy storage device prior to the start of the second time interval. This causes the current supplied from the power supply to the power manager during the second time interval to be less than the total current required by the first component during the second time interval and thus reduces the peak current load of the power supply during the second time interval.
US08235801B2	Gaming system and method for providing enhanced player opportunities for depositing monetary amounts above a designated level An apparatus and method providing at least one input device which enables a player to deposit an amount of money into a gaming device and a memory device configured to store the deposited amount of money. The gaming device displays the amount of money deposited by the player on a credit meter or display. The gaming device includes a game operable upon a wager. The gaming device further includes at least one input device for enabling the player to initiate a play of the game by inputting the wager using the deposited funds. The game includes a plurality of award opportunities. The gaming device determines which of the award opportunities will be employed based on the amount of money deposited by the player. In one embodiment, the gaming device provides an enhanced award opportunity if the amount of money deposited by the player is at or above a designated amount of money. In one embodiment, the deposited amounts are on a gaming system, such as a gaming system accessed through the internet.
US08235800B2	System and method for substantially removing chance from a mixed contest of chance and skill The system and methods of the present application comprise one or more computers for substantially removing the element of chance in a contest that would normally be on whose outcome would be determined by a mixture of chance and skill. The system comprises one or more computers that interact with a user in order to reduce or eliminate the elements of chance, thereby forcing the contest to obey the law of averages within a finite number of iterations of the contest, thereby reducing variance and increasing the success of skillful players.
US08235792B2	Game method using community lines The claimed embodiments contemplate methods, systems and apparatuses directed to gaming machines that provide a common reel display for multiple players. Various combinations of reel lines, utilized to determine possible wins from symbols across multiple reels, of the reel display, may be available to the players. For example, a first player may be permitted to bet on one set of reel lines and a second player may bet on another set of reel lines. Also, for example, both players may bet on some reel lines and other reel lines may only be available to certain players. A community reel line may also be made available to both players or perhaps just one player upon satisfaction of certain conditions. The ability to have multiple players bet on a common reel display advantageously adds to the excitement and enjoyment of a gaming session.
US08235790B2	Slot machine A slot machine includes a display device for displaying a symbol matrix display region in which plural types of symbols are displayed; a memory for storing data concerning a number of predetermined symbols arranged in the symbol matrix display region; and a processor for controlling the display device and the memory, the processor being programmed to: (a) execute a basic game; (b) rearrange the plural types of symbols in the symbol matrix display region during the basic game; (c) cumulatively store in the memory, the data concerning the number of the predetermined symbols from among the plural types of symbols, the predetermined symbols being rearranged in the symbol matrix display region during the basic game; (d) determine a number of times in executing a free game by executing a sub game by a number of times equal to the number of the predetermined symbols rearranged in the symbol matrix display region by referring to the data concerning the number of the predetermined symbols stored in the memory; and (e) execute the free game based on the number of times determined in the itemized (d).
US08235788B1	Integrated display and input system A display and input system 10 provides an enhanced means for displaying service and system information 14 from a system network 18 to a player and to a casino employee. The display and input system 10 enables part or all of a video display screen 40 in a gaming device 50, which had previously been used only as a gaming interface 30, to be utilized as a systems interface 20 for data entry and retrieval of the service and system information 14. This provides a dramatic improvement over traditional system components 60 (input/output peripherals) that have been used as in the past to access service and system information 14 from the system network 18, such as 2-line, 20 character VF displays and 12-digit keypads. The display and input system 10, does not control game play itself (e.g., game play betting, game play flow, or game play operation). Rather, the system 10 provides a limited form of game play monitoring, indirectly, with respect to the monitoring player points.
US08235783B2	Wagering games utilizing a play or pass methodology related application data A monitor screen is provided on which symbols may be provided for use in video wagering games, including poker games, card games, slot games, bingo and keno. The player makes a wager to purchase a block of sequentially-playable games. The wager is the aggregate total of the wagers placed on each individual game. This aggregate total wager becomes the wager for the first game. A first partial (or intermediate) outcome of the first game is displayed. The player, having certain information about the potential final outcome from the partially displayed outcome, may choose to either: (a) play the partial first game to a final conclusion, or (b) pass by forfeiting the wager for the individual game. If the player decides to play the first game to its conclusion, the player will either lose the aggregate total wager, or win according to a predetermined paytable, in either case terminating any further play of the remaining games. If the player passes, the individual game wager is forfeited, and the partial outcome of the next sequential game in the block is displayed. The wager on this next or second game is the aggregate total wager minus the first single game wager. The process is repeated, subtracting individual passed game wagers from the aggregate total wager, until the player plays a game to its conclusion.
US08235779B2	Gaming machine determining payout symbol in second game requiring more player's involvement The present invention provides a gaming machine which: displays a moving symbol on a main display in a case where a plurality of specific symbols are displayed; displays a plurality of score symbols associated with scores on a second display from a first side edge to a second side edge of the second display; displays the moving symbol in a direction that intersects with a moving direction of the score symbols displayed on the second display in response to each input from an input device; and, in a case where the moving symbol is determined to superimpose any one of the plurality of score symbols, provides an award corresponding to a score of the score symbol being superimposed.
US08235774B2	Poultry wing portioner A poultry wing portioner is provided for separating poultry wings. The portioner includes a loop conveyor, a wing holder, a circular saw, and driving means for the loop conveyor and the circular saw. The portioner is configured to allow a user to place poultry wings onto the holder, which is conveyed past the circular saw. The circular saw cuts poultry wings into the portions of a drumette, a midwing, and a wingtip.
US08235772B2	Method and device for pin removal in a confined space A method for drilling or cutting a pin surrounded by solid material includes the use of a water jet tool having a nozzle that is arranged at an angle with respect to a main body of the water jet tool. The water jet is directed over a portion of the surface of the pin, and removes that portion thereby fragmenting the pin. In order to minimize damage to the surrounding material, the portions removed touches the interface between the pin and the surrounding solid material at a minimal number of points and over a minimal extent of the interface. The method is applicable in particular to the removal of pins used in a press-fit for the securing of blades on a turbine rotor. The method facilitates “in situ” removal of pins within a confined space in a short time and at reduced cost.
US08235766B2	Full torso maternity garment A maternity garment, which provides mild support to shape a woman's body and to act as a suspender for bottoms such as pants, shorts, or skirts that may be ill fitting due to body changes as a result of pregnancy, wherein the preferred garment has at least one shoulder strap, a belly panel, a hip band, two side panels, and a back panel, and is made of high performance fabric with varying degrees of compression.
US08235763B1	Fighting purr game call A turkey game call includes a housing assembly and a striker assembly to generate fighting purr sounds. The housing assembly may include a base, a wall surrounding the periphery of the base, and a beam extending across the base. The striker assembly may include a control handle, a central hub connected to said handle, and a pair of striker plates connected to said central hub. Two posts are connected to the base proximate said striker plates, with each striker plate engaging one of said corresponding posts to generate the fighting purr sounds.
US08235757B2	Plug An electrical connector for terminating a cable formed of twisted pairs, including a termination assembly having a divider for dividing and guiding the pairs to a respective termination location and a pair of contacts positioned adjacent each location where wires of each pair are separated for termination. The electrical connector is preferably an RJ plug and the divider is preferably mounted on a printed circuit board which is provided with a laser trimmed tuneable circuit to compensate for crosstalk.
US08235753B2	Contact, and card adaptor and card connector having the same In a contact of the present invention, a first plate spring piece portion 11c having a first fulcrum portion 11b in one side extends in a cantilevered manner from the first fulcrum portion 11b in a direction opposite to a card insertion direction so as to be elastically deformable in a thickness direction of the card. A second plate spring piece portion 11e having in one side a second fulcrum portion 11d which is the other side of the first plate spring piece portion 11c is formed in a shape where the second plate spring piece portion extends at an inclination angle from the second fulcrum portion 11d in the card insertion direction so as to be elastically deformable in the card thickness direction. The other side of the second plate spring piece portion 11e is to be contacted with the contact pad 2 of the card 1.
US08235751B2	Coaxial cable port locking terminator and method of use thereof Disclosed herein is a coaxial cable interface port locking terminator including an outer terminator housing and an inner connector body housed within the outer terminator housing. The coaxial cable interface port locking terminator further includes a ratcheting device in operable communication with the outer terminator housing and the inner connector body, the ratcheting device preventing rotation of the outer terminator housing with respect to the inner connector body when the outer terminator housing is rotated in the first direction, the ratcheting device including at least one separate component from the outer terminator housing and the inner connector body. Furthermore, rotation of the outer terminator housing in a second direction does not cause rotation of the inner connector body in the second direction.
US08235748B2	External quick connect modular plug for a wiring device The modular electrical wiring device includes an electrical wiring device and an external plug that is electrically coupled by one or more wires to the wiring device. The modular plug is releasably coupled to a connector in a male-female relationship. Both the modular plug and connector include internal contacts for electrically coupling one to the other. The connector is electrically coupled to and directly terminates one or more building wires, which are used to provide power to one or more of the wiring devices. The external plug is removably coupled to the connector to provide electrical power to the wiring device by establishing and electrical pathway from a source of electrical power, through the building wires, the connector and the modular plug to the wiring device.
US08235744B1	Electrical connection system including connector body with integral primary and secondary latch A first connector is matable to a second connector in an electrical connection system. The first connector has a connector body that contains a primary and a secondary latch. The respective latches and the connector body of the first connector are molded to form a single unitary piece. The single unitary piece is constructed to define a space intermediate the primary latch and the connector body. The space is adapted to fit a latch position assurance lock to prevent displacement of the primary latch. The primary and the secondary latch respectively communicate with at least one primary and at least one secondary latch ramp disposed on the second connector when at least the first connector is unmated from the second connector. A method to assemble an electrical connection system using the single unitary piece of the first connector is also provided.
US08235739B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector comprising a housing provided with an opening through which an FPC is inserted into the housing, a plurality of conductive contacts arranged on the housing for coming into contact with signal connecting terminals on the FPC inserted in the housing, and a conductive shell mounted on the housing and provided therein with a holding member operative to hold the FPC inserted in the housing and a releasing member extending from the holding member to be operative to release the FPC from holding by the holding member, wherein the holding member includes an engaging projection for engaging with an engaging edged portion provided on the FPC inserted in the housing and the releasing member includes a handle portion positioned on the outside of the housing to be handled for causing the engaging projection of the holding member to disengage from the engaging edged portion on the FPC inserted in the housing.
US08235736B2	Connector A connector is connectable to a cable having a plurality of signal wires and a drain wire. Each of the signal wires includes a signal conductor. The connector comprises a plurality of contacts, a holding member and a shell. The holding member is provided with an accommodating portion configured to accommodate an end part of the drain wire. The accommodating portion extends through the holding portion along a predetermined direction. The contacts configured to be connected to the signal conductors, respectively. The contacts are held by the holding member so that connection works between the contacts and the signal conductors are performable along the predetermined direction. The shell covers, at least in part, the holding member. The shell has a fixing portion exposed in the accommodating portion so that the end part of the drain wire is fixable to the fixing portion within the accommodating portion.
US08235734B2	Electrical connector An electrical connector that includes: an insulating body, having a plurality of receiving holes disposed thereon, a plurality of solder balls, respectively received in one of the receiving holes, a plurality of terminals, in which each terminal has a base correspondingly received in one of the receiving holes, a first extending portion and a second extending portion extend downwards from the base, a first hook extends laterally from an end of the first extending portion, a second hook extends laterally from an end of the second extending portion, and the first hook and the second hook respectively hook a periphery of the solder ball under a horizontal center line of the solder ball.
US08235733B2	Electrical connector for circuit board In an electrical connector to be attached to a circuit board, a terminal has a contact section on one free end side to contact with a terminal of a mating connector and has a connecting section on the other free end side to be connected by soldering to a circuit portion of a circuit board. The terminal has a holding section and a connecting section. The holding section has a face-contact section, a backside section, and a side-face section. The terminal has a low solder wetting area at least on a part of a circumferential area of the holding section in the longitudinal direction, and the contact section is formed above the upper end of the low solder wetting area on the backside section. The upper end of the low solder wetting area is provided below the upper end at the side-face sections and the contact-face section.
US08235732B2	Battery system A high voltage connector for a battery system includes an upper body having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the upper body is located internal to a battery system housing and configured to receive at least one contact from the battery system. The second portion is located external to the battery system housing and is configured to receive at least one contact from a vehicle. The high voltage connector also includes a lower body coupled to the upper body and at least one connecting member provided between the upper body and the lower body. The connecting member is configured to conductively connect the contact of the battery system to the contact of the vehicle.
US08235729B2	Connector A connector has an insulating housing of which two opposite ends extended frontward to form a pair of supporting arms, terminals mounted in the insulating housing having soldering portions projected out of a bottom of the insulating housing, and a positioning member. The positioning member has a base slice. A rear of a side edge the base slice is extended downward to form a holding slice movably received in a through slot recessed at the supporting arm. A front of the side edge of the base slice is extended downward and then bent perpendicularly to form a soldering slice. As the height between the base slice and the soldering slice is bigger than that of the supporting arm, the positioning member is capable of moving up-and-down to adjust the relative position between the soldering slice and the soldering portions of the terminals.
US08235728B2	Apparatus for practicing ophthalmologic surgical techniques An apparatus for teaching and practicing an ophthalmologic surgical technique of creating the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis comprises a flexible and removable cellophane-type cover, which is wrapped substantially around a putty-like malleable body to mimic the human anterior lens capsule and lens anatomy.
US08235726B2	Process and system for simulation or digital synthesis of sonographic images The invention relates to a method for the simulation or digital synthesis of echographic images, characterized by the direct transformation in real time, or quasi real time, of the information contained in an IRM-type medical or veterinary image, without delimitation or segmentation of the bodies or structures contained in the volume of data of the IRM image, according to at least one two-dimensional observation window which can be modified in real time, or quasi real time, in terms of the dimension, position, direction and orientation thereof, the characteristics thereof depending on the type of virtual echographic probe determined, and reproducing all of the attenuation, reflection, refraction and dispersion effects, and the regulation effects of a real echographic image, each echographic image supplied cumulating the results of the simulations of the pre-cited effects.
US08235725B1	Computerized method of assessing consumer reaction to a business stimulus employing facial coding A computerized method of assessing an individual's reaction to a business stimulus. The method involves (a) visually recording facial expressions of a human subject as the subject is exposed to a business stimulus so as to generate a chronological sequence of recorded facial images; (b) automatically detecting and recording expressional repositioning of each of a plurality of selected facial features by conducting a computerized comparison of the facial position of each selected facial feature through sequential facial images, (c) automatically coding contemporaneously detected and recorded expressional repositionings to at least one of an action unit, one or more emotions, or a combination of an affiliation value and a motivation value, and (d) reporting a tally of at least one of the coded action units, coded emotions or coded combination of an affiliation value and a motivation value over a given time period along with an identification of the business stimulus to which the subject was exposed during that given time period.
US08235723B2	Flight simulator yoke A flight simulator yoke is provided having a single handle having a handgrip and yoke shaft operable from a left side of a user, wherein a neutral position for the handle is at a 45 degree angle. The yoke may further include two trim axes traverse to each other; and two moveable spring devices. The spring devices are operatively coupled to the trim axes, each spring device having a positive center detent, wherein the positive center detent requires a predetermined amount of force in order to move the yoke along each trim axis. The flight simulator yoke may simulate a yoke of a Cirrus aircraft.
US08235721B2	Dental implants for implantation in a human or animal jawbone and methods of manufacturing same The subject matter of the invention is, in one example, a dental implant for implantation in a human or animal jawbone with an implant for receiving a dental prosthesis. Providing a dental implant that can be implanted with less discomfort for the patient is achieved in that the implant is at least in parts surrounded with bone substance of the patient, said bone substance not originating from the place in the jaw of the patient at which the dental implant is intended to be implanted.
US08235712B1	High temperature heat-shrink steam tunnel A device intended to assist in the accurate and controlled shrinkage of thermo-shrinkable container-jacketing material. Said device producing at least an elevated temperature in a heated processing zone. Heat energy available in said heated processing zone primarily derived from a first heat source, preferably pressurized steam. Said first heat source steam exhibiting preferred characteristics related to the controlled shrinking of thermo-shrinkable materials. A second heat source, other than steam, acting in cooperative relationship with said first heat source steam, delaying the decay of one or more preferred characteristics of said first heat source steam. Said first heat source steam, urging said heat-shrinkable materials to shrink, substantially conforming to receiving containers in a preferred manner along one or more axis.
US08235710B2	Device and method for continuously and catalytically removing binder, with improved flow conditions The apparatus for the continuous catalytic removal of binder from metallic and/or ceramic shaped bodies produced by powder injection molding, which comprises a binder removal furnace through which the shaped bodies pass in a transport direction and are brought to a suitable process temperature, a feed facility for introduction of a process gas which is required for binder removal and comprises a reactant, at least one facility for the introduction of a protective gas into a reaction space of the binder removal furnace and a flare to burn the gaseous reaction products obtained in binder removal, wherein one or more devices which lead to a flow of the process gas directed transversely to the transport direction in the apparatus are present.
US08235709B2	Multi-output valve and burner useful to promote non-stationary flame A valve useful in distributing gas received in one inlet to several outlets in a sequence, and burner apparatus including this valve for feeding material in sequence to outlets of a burner thereby forming a non-stationary flame at the burner.
US08235708B2	Heater configured to operate with a first or second fuel A heater can be configured to operate with either a first fuel at a first pressure or a second fuel at a second pressure and can include an elongated tubular combustion chamber, a first combustion chamber nozzle outlet, a second combuston chamber nozzel outley, and a fluid flow controller. In some embodiments, the fluid flow controller is configured to direct the first fuel to the first combustion chamber nozzle outlet and then to the second combustion chamber nozzle ourlet when the controller is in a first position. In a second position, the fluid flow controller is configured to direct the second fuel to the second combustion chamber nozzle outlet.
US08235705B2	Apparatus for producing a sulfur concrete substance A sulfur-containing material in a melt state is stored in material hopper 1 heated to a temperature within a preset temperature range of which a lower limit is equal to or above a melting point of sulfur. The stored sulfur-containing material is sucked by pressure generators 2a, 2b and pulled out into cylinders 11a, 11b heated to a temperature within the preset temperature range. The pulled out sulfur-containing material is pushed out from the cylinders under predetermined pressure applied by the pressure generator, and thereafter, the resultant material is injected from injection port 24 into mold 5 having therein a cavity which can be hermetically sealed and the mold being heated to a temperature within the preset temperature range. The injection port of the mold after the sulfur-containing material is fully injected in the cavity is closed. By stopping heating of the mold, the sulfur-containing material injected in the cavity is slowly cooled. After that, a modified sulfur concrete substance formed by cooling and solidifying the sulfur-containing material in the cavity is taken out from the mold.
US08235703B2	Apparatus for transferring doses An apparatus for transferring doses includes a forming arrangement for forming an object from a dose of flowable material and a transferring arrangement for transferring the dose to the forming arrangement. The transferring arrangement has a recess for receiving the dose. The recess is provided with a rolling arrangement for guiding the dose inside the transferring arrangement.
US08235702B2	Apparatuses and methods for processing doses of flowable material An apparatus comprises an extruding device having a dispensing opening for extruding a flowable material along an exit direction through the dispensing opening, and a cutting arrangement for separating a dose from the flowable material, the cutting arrangement being movable with a motion component that is parallel to the exit direction.
US08235696B2	In-mold forming apparatus, in-mold forming method, in-mold formed article manufacturing method, and dust collector An in-mold forming apparatus including a first mold and a second mold for injection molding and a film feeding mechanism for feeding in-mold foil between the first mold and the second mold. A transfer foil is formed on the in-mold foil. The in-mold forming apparatus further includes a mold closing mechanism for closing the first mold and the second mold, thereby to fix the in-mold foil inside a cavity formed between the first mold and the second mold, a resin injection forming mechanism for injecting fused resin into the cavity, thereby to unit the transfer foil formed on the in-mold foil with the resin, and a charger arranged in the neighborhood of at least one of the first mold, the second mold, and the in-mold foil. The charger includes a charging unit for freeing ions and charging particles in the neighborhood of the in-mold foil, and an electrode for adsorbing the particles charged by the ions.
US08235695B2	Pattern forming device, pattern forming method, and device manufacturing method Six auxiliary sheet holders SH2 and SH3 temporarily holding a sheet S are minutely driven in the −Z-axis direction by a control device so that holding surfaces thereof are positioned on the slightly lower side (−Z side) of the holding surface of the sheet holder SH1. Accordingly, an appropriate tension is applied to the sheet S in the width direction (Y-axis direction) and the longitudinal direction, so that the center portion of the sheet S is fixed onto the holding surface of the sheet holder SH1. That is, in the state where an XY two-dimensional tension is applied to a separate area SAi of the sheet S, a rear surface portion corresponding to the separate area SAi of the sheet S is changed in accordance with the flat shape of the holding surface of the sheet holder SH1. In addition, in the state where the tension is applied to the predetermined area in the longitudinal direction and the width direction, the rear surface portion corresponding to the predetermined area of the sheet material S is changed in accordance with the flat reference surface so as to be flattened. In addition, the predetermined area of the flattened sheet material is irradiated with an energy beam so as to form a pattern thereon.
US08235694B2	Injection mold for forming a light guide plate An injection mold for forming a light guide plate including a first block, a second block configured to face the first block, a forming portion included between the first and second blocks facing each other and having a shape of the light guide plate, an injection portion formed at the first block and configured to receive injected resin for forming the light guide plate, and a gate portion configured to guide the injected resin from the injection portion to the forming portion. Further, a width of a first end portion of the gate portion that is connected to the forming portion is 50%-80% of a width of the forming portion.
US08235693B2	Power supply device for electrically driven injection molding machine and electrically driven injection molding machine A power supply device for supplying an electric power to a servo amplifier is configured by an AC/DC converter and a power accumulating device. Among a molding cycle, during a process where an amount of consumed power is small, a DC voltage is supplied to the servo amplifier from the AC/DC converter and a power is accumulated in the power accumulating device. In a process such as an injection process where a large power is required, a high DC voltage is supplied to the servo amplifier from the power accumulating device in place of the AC/DC converter.
US08235691B2	Dual displacement external gear pump An external gear pump which has a certain flow rate or volumetric capacity at a given speed can be taken apart and the parts rearranged and assembled into a second pump operating at the same speed with a flow rate or volumetric capacity that is different from the original pump. No new parts are required for the second pump configuration and all original parts are used. With this structure, pumps with different flow rates can be built using fewer parts than conventional designs.
US08235684B2	Air pump capable of inflating and deflating an inflatable product An air pump includes a sliding member disposed movably a housing and cooperating with the housing and a partition casing in the housing to define first and second chambers thereamong. The air pump is operable between a deflation state, where air from an inflatable product connected to an air nozzle on the housing into an air impeller chamber in the partition casing through the first chamber and an air inlet in the partition casing is driven by rotation of an air impeller to flow outside the air pump through an air outlet in the partition casing, the second chamber and an first vent unit in housing, and an inflation state, where air flowing from the outside into the air impeller chamber through a second vent unit in the sliding member, an air pipe of the sliding member and the air inlet is driven to flow into the inflatable product through the air outlet, the first chamber and the air nozzle.
US08235682B2	Pump including an insertion valve sleeve having at least one orifice Pump, in particular a servo steering pump for motor vehicles, having a flow control valve and a valve sleeve which has inflow openings to the flow control valve and a pressure connection to a hydraulic load.
US08235677B2	Compressing diaphragm pump having automatic air expelling and pressure abnormal-preventing features for spray use A compressing diaphragm pump having automatic air expelling and pressure abnormal-preventing features for spray use has a hollow tubular air discharge assembly having a plunger body and compressed spring as well as an air passage pierced at the wall of the water exit port and an air discharge orifice pierced of the central top surface of the air discharge assembly for connecting with the plunger body. When air is mixed within the pressurized water, the resilient force of the compressed spring is bigger than the water pressure of the pressurized water. This allows the air mixed in the pressurized water to get into the air passage and pass the plunger opening of the plunger body via through pore, and is dispelled out of the upper hood via the air discharge orifice of the air discharge assembly.
US08235676B2	Net-displacement control of fluid motors and pumps Methods for controlling the net-displacement of a rotary fluid pressure device are disclosed. One of the net-displacement control methods (47) includes obtaining a desired input parameter (23) and a relative position (21) of a first member (43) and a second member (35) of a fluid displacement mechanism. A determination of a first and second output value is then made for each of a plurality of volume chambers (45) when the volume chambers (45) are supplied with fluid at fluid inlet and fluid outlet conditions, respectively. A total output value is then computed for each of a plurality of control valve configurations (63) and compared to the desired input parameter (23). The control valve configuration (63) with the total output value most similar to the desired input parameter (23) is then selected. A plurality of control valves (15) are then actuated in accordance with the selected control valve configuration (63).
US08235672B2	Fan A fan includes a hub and a plurality of blades formed on the hub with a rake angle. In an axial direction of the hub, no part of a trailing edge of any of the blades is disposed past an air outlet end of the hub at more than a distance approximately equal to 25% of a diameter of the hub.
US08235671B2	Wind turbine blade shear web connection assembly A wind turbine blade has upper and lower shell members with a respective spar cap configured on an internal face of the shell members. A shear web extends between the spar caps along a longitudinal length of the blade. A connection assembly is configured between the transverse ends of the shear web and the spar caps and includes a channel structure configured on the spar cap. The channel structure includes rigid side walls that extend from the spar cap along the longitudinal sides of the shear web. Bond paste is disposed between the channel structure side walls and the longitudinal sides of the shear web.
US08235669B2	Axial flow hydraulic turbine with blade mounting A hydraulic turbine has a runner blade fixedly mounted to a runner hub. The runner blade has a mounting flange having a generally rectangular shape held in contact with a complementary generally rectangular shaped outside surface portion of the runner hub. The complementary rectangular shapes increases surface contact area between the blade mounting flange and the hub over that of circular shaped flanges and thereby reduces the stress levels between the blade flange and the hub. Further, the surface contact area between the blade mounting flange and the blade root is increased to thereby reduce the stress level in the blade root fillets.
US08235668B2	Multiblade air blower A multiblade air blower has a multiblade impeller, an orifice, an axially overlaid portion, and an airflow collision prevention device. The multiblade impeller includes a main plate and a blade. The blade is provided at the main plate to form a blade inner periphery. The orifice has an open end and an orifice inner periphery. The open end is positioned toward the main plate from a blade end face. The orifice inner periphery has an inner diameter larger than that of the blade inner periphery, and guides air to the multiblade impeller. The axially overlaid portion is a part where the orifice and the blades are overlaid. The airflow collision prevention device is provided at the blade and at an inner side of the orifice inner periphery. The multiblade air blower suppresses loss of air distribution efficiency and increased noise.
US08235662B2	Wind turbine metrology system A wind turbine and system for controlling a wind turbine using a nosecone mounted metrology system is disclosed. The wind turbine comprises at least one wind sensor for determining at least one wind characteristic. The wind sensor is mounted on a boom and located at a predetermined distance outward from the wind turbine nosecone.
US08235659B1	Lance and slit seamed housing and method of manufacture A lanced and/or slit seamed housing and method of manufacture having a peripheral rolled and lanced or punched seam between a wrapper and the housing panels. The method of manufacture utilizes similar or dissimilar sheet materials in a variety of material thicknesses and with or without coatings applied prior to formation whereby a housing is formed quickly and safely. The rolling and lancing method manufactures a blower housing with an assured and positive sealed seam between the panels and wrapper of the housing. The lances or slits maintain the integrity of the seam and prevent slippage between the wrapper and panels.
US08235656B2	Catenary turbine seal systems In one embodiment, a catenary seal structure may be mechanically supported only by two adjacent rotor wheels to isolate a volume between the two adjacent rotor wheels. The catenary seal structure may be annularly disposed about the rotational axis of the adjacent rotor wheels.
US08235644B2	Personal mobility vehicle lift A personal mobility vehicle lift mounted to the rear portion of a vehicle to transport a personal mobility vehicle from location to location comprising a platform assembly configured to support a personal mobility vehicle thereon operatively coupled to a lift assembly to selectively raise and lower the platform assembly with or without a personal mobility vehicle thereon and a mount assembly coupled to the lift assembly to mount the personal mobility vehicle lift to the rear portion of a vehicle.
US08235642B2	Systems and methods for handling a load Disclosed is a load handling system including: a trailer capable of being hitched to a towing vehicle and/or to other trailers in order to form a conveyor train. Wheels and a shaft support a chassis equipped with a loading and unloading module for a load-bearing dolly. The loading and unloading module includes a conveyor defining a first incline for positioning the dolly, whereby the dolly is no longer in contact with the ground and is held in position on the trailer, and a second incline, the second incline having a symmetric position with respect to the first incline. The conveyor enables loading and unloading of the dolly on the first side of the trailer and on the second side of the trailer.
US08235640B2	Apparatus for moving containers An apparatus for moving containers into or from a chamber provided with at least a supporting surface for the containers, comprises a pushing element for engaging the containers and a driving arrangement for moving the pushing element through the chamber along a sliding direction, the driving arrangement comprising, a modular rod assembly for supporting the pushing element and including a set of rod elements which can be mutually and removably associated, an assembling arrangement for connecting or disconnecting the rod elements to or from the modular rod assembly so as to change a length thereof and to move the pushing element.
US08235637B2	Anti-loosen self-tapping screw The anti-loosen self-tapping screw includes a head, rod and a thread. The rod extends from the head and an end of the rod forms a conic tapping tip. The thread is around the rod from the tapping tip to a position near the head. The thread is provided with an axial groove to cut off the thread. The divided ends along one side of the groove are separately provided with expanded portions whose cross-sections are expanded.
US08235635B1	Wall and ceiling anchor with fins and hinge An anchoring fastener comprises a shaft (100) with straight and tapered portions, a tip (105) at the front, cam follower surfaces (110, 111) at the rear, a body (120) with a bore, a head (125) with a hole, and fins (115). There is a bendable region by the fins. The anchor is inserted into a wallboard (600) until the head contacts the wallboard. The fins slice into the wallboard, thereby preventing rotation during and after insertion. An activating member (900), a screw or a pin, is inserted into the hole and urged against the cam follower surfaces, thereby forcing the shaft to rotate until it comes into contact with the inner surface (615) of the wallboard. An object-holding washer (905), restrained by the activating member, is secured to the anchor which in turn is secured to the wallboard.
US08235631B2	Bag for retaining wall A bag for retaining structures, includes a plurality of cells aligned side-by-side in a continuous manner and configured to be filled with a filling material. Each cell of the bag includes a bottom wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, a back wall, and a front wall, the front wall being longer than the back wall. Furthermore, the first and second side walls each include a) a first corner located where the back wall connects with the bottom wall, said first corner being substantially 90 degrees; and b) a second corner located where a respective top edge of each side wall connects with the rear wall, said second corner being substantially 90 degrees.
US08235627B2	System and method for detecting and remediating contamination A system for detecting and remediating a discharge of fuel from a fuel source facility is disclosed. The system can comprise a contamination detection subsystem configured to detect a discharge of fuel from the fuel source facility and a remediation subsystem configured to remediate contamination due to the discharge of fuel. A controller can automatically activate the remediation subsystem upon detection of a discharge by the contamination detection subsystem. The controller can automatically send a notification that a contamination has been detected and the remediation system has been activated. Alternatively or in addition, the controller can automatically send a notification that a contamination has been detected and the remediation system has been activated.
US08235624B2	Restrictor plate with securing system A restrictor plate assembly is disclosed. The assembly is adapted for being positioned within a catch basin throat so that the throat extends rearward of the assembly. The assembly has a longitudinally extending restrictor plate and a restrictor plate securing system, which includes a first clamp arm, pivotally positioned against the restrictor plate, for engaging a first throat surface of the catch basin; a second clamp arm pivotally positioned against the restrictor plate, for engaging a second throat surface of the catch basin, the second throat surface opposing the first throat surface; and an urging member which simultaneously urges the first and second clamp arms against the first and second throat surfaces, respectively.
US08235620B2	Fluid applicator Applicators for fluids such as paints utilizing a roller are known and more recently utilization of an incrementally displaceable piston in order to force fluid flow to a roller has been disclosed. In order to ensure appropriate presentation of the fluid, that is to say paint, to the roller an appropriate gap between the roller and the housing is required. By position of a cam and/or flap control of a housing to roller gap is achieved.
US08235618B2	Sample dose with applicator Device for distributing a low volume or dose of product includes a reservoir defined by a joining area of two groups and that contains a distribution orifice, and an applicator including a grasping organ and a distribution organ composed of a rod, whose end is fitted with a distribution nozzle and whose other end is included in the grasping organ, at least one of the groups being a shell including a cavity having a collar that the joining area in part of and at least one of the groups has a collar including a trough; the distribution orifice communicating with the reservoir by a neck formed by the space between the two groups, the trough forming its wall at least partially; the neck including a breakable structure, breaking an area opening the orifice.
US08235616B2	Safety closure for nail polish bottle A molded, plastic safety closure adapted for use on a nail polish bottle. Closure includes an inner cap, and an overcap that fits over the inner cap in a telescoping manner. Inner cap includes a hollow cylindrical section, a top wall, a plurality of teeth spaced about the top wall, a post extends upwardly from said top wall, and pawls are spaced around the post. Overcap includes a plurality of complementary teeth spaced about its interior, and vanes spaced around the interior of the overcap. The two sets of teeth are normally maintained apart by spring fingers that provide an upwardly directed biasing force. When the closure is subjected to a downwardly directed force, the two sets of teeth are brought in alignment, and the vanes and pawl cooperate to provide a ratchet mechanism. The inner cap and outer cap are rotated as a unit, and provide sufficient torque to unseat the closure, and allow access to the contents of the nail polish bottle.
US08235613B2	Label printer having a cutter mechanism for cutting a strip-form printing medium A label printer includes a cutter mechanism, a main body frame, and an upper cover. The cutter mechanism includes an upper blade which is a fixed blade and a lower blade which is a moving blade that advances and retreats relative to the upper blade, and that cuts a printing medium by causing the lower blade to advance and retreat relative to the upper blade. The lower blade is attached to the main body frame. The upper blade is attached to the upper cover, which opens and closes an upper portion of the main body frame. The upper blade is separated from the lower blade when the upper cover is opened.
US08235612B2	Printing apparatus to prevent multifeed related printing errors and method thereof A printing apparatus includes a multifeed sensor to detect whether printing paper sheets are multifed, a measuring unit to measure an interval between the multifed paper sheets, if the multifeed sensor detects that the printing paper sheets are multifed, and a control unit to delay printing using the measured interval so that a lastly fed printing paper sheet is printed. As a result, a printing error due to multifeed of two or more printing paper sheets can be avoided.
US08235611B2	Key structure of a keyboard A key structure of a keyboard, comprising: a backplane and a plurality of key caps. The backplane is concaved a plurality of grooves. A frame is deposed on the groove, and outside of the frame two fixed bases and two positioning columns are correspondingly deposed on the opposite sides. A clamp is deposed on the fixed base. A link bar, consists of a cross bar and two struts. The cross bar and the struts are mutually perpendicular and shown as an upside-down U shape. A key cap, in which a convex column is extended from the inside of the key cap, and two clips are protruded respectively on the opposite sides of the convex column, as well as a slot is deposed on the clip. The clips are adapted to position the cross bar of the link bar to a clamp of a fixed base on the backplane. And two struts are adapted to be held by the positioning column, so that the two struts only can be moved up and down and will not mismatch. Moreover, combining the key cap with the backplane to make the convex column plugging into the frame, therefore the two slots of the clip are adapted to be combined with the two struts. No matter what position of the key cap surface is pressed, the key cap will be affected by the link bar; such will make the key being pressed down completely.
US08235604B2	Optical connector and fiber module An optical connector that permits an optical fiber ribbon to be led out in multiple directions and an optical fiber module that uses the optical connector are provided. The optical connector comprises a connector main body and a guide groove formed on the connector main body in which an optical fiber ribbon is arranged, wherein the guide groove is comprised of an end face holding slot, a vertical guiding face, an arcuate guiding face formed in arc-shape, and a positioning face for widthwise positioning and fixing the optical fiber ribbon and wherein the vertical guiding face and the arcuate guiding face and the positioning face define a space that opens toward a top face of the connector main body; and the optical fiber module comprises the optical fiber ribbon and the optical connector.
US08235602B2	System and method for positioning a probe An adapter couples a length of optical fiber to a hollow probe and to an optical coherence tomography instrument. The length of optical fiber may be greater than the length of the adapter itself. The optical fiber is fixed to an optical coupler at a proximal end of the adapter and may be maintained in a curved configuration by features located in an internal cavity of the adapter. An optical fiber advance mechanism be used to advance and/or retract the length of optical fiber to align it within the hollow probe.
US08235600B2	Method for manufacturing one-piece LC type optical fiber adapter The present invention generally relates to a method for manufacturing a one-piece LC type optical fiber adapter, more particularly to a method that is simpler and easier to assemble the LC type optical fiber adapter.
US08235599B2	Hydrodynamic tapered roller bearings and gas turbine engine systems involving such bearings Tapered roller bearings and gas turbine engine systems involving such bearings are provided. In this regard, a representative bearing cage for a gas turbine engine includes: an outer cage rim and an inner cage rim; the outer cage rim having a rounded edge at a location of contact between the outer cage rim and a roller.
US08235598B2	Bearing apparatus A bearing apparatus includes two split outer ring halves disposed in close contact with each other and a plurality of rollers. A circumferential end of each of the split outer ring halves has a concave-and-convex shape including a first slope portion inclined with respect to a line extending along an axial direction of the split outer ring halves and a second slope portion inclined in an opposite direction to that of the first slope portion. Each of the rollers is provided with crowning so as to be shaped in barrel form, and an amount of crowning is set such that an apex of a projecting portion at the concave-and-convex shape of each of the split outer ring halves is located on an axially outer side of a rolling surface of the roller rolling on an inner peripheral surface of each of the split outer ring halves.
US08235597B2	Combined radial-axial roller bearing A combined radial-axial rolling bearing for rotatably mounting a rotary body in the region of a diameter step. The rolling bearing has a radial bearing unit which is assigned to a circumferential surface of the rotary body and which at least has a radial bearing ring, and an axial bearing unit which is assigned to an axial surface of the rotary body and which at least has an axial bearing ring. To mount the rotary body radially in the region of the larger diameter, the radial bearing unit is assigned to a circumferential surface which has the larger diameter. The radially outer rim of the axial bearing ring is latched to a rim of the radial bearing ring which faces toward the radially outer rim, such that the two bearing rings form a structural unit which can be assembled in one work step, but otherwise remain functionally separate.
US08235595B2	Guide rail and method for manufacturing same A guide rail includes a base rail with at least one finger extending from a first portion of the base rail, and at least one finger extending from a second portion of the base rail. A race insert is mounted against the fingers. A first race way is associated with the at least one finger extending from the first portion of the base rail. A second race way is associated with the at least one finger extending from the second portion of the base rail. The first and second race ways have different load transmission directions. The load transmission direction of the first race way is non-parallel to the at least one finger extending from the first portion of the base rail. The load transmission direction of the second race way is non-parallel to the at least one finger extending from the second portion of the base rail.
US08235594B2	Alignment fixture for X-ray images An alignment fixture for taking X-ray images of a patient, such as an image of the patient's hip region preparatory to hip arthroplasty. The alignment fixture comprises multiple support legs for resting on the patient at known positions, such as upon known bony prominences, in combination with aiming marks used for anatomically aligning the patent's pelvis under an X-ray beam. A ruled grid plate on the fixture is adjustably positioned between an image beam source and the patient, as a function of patient thickness in the pelvic region, so that a ruled grid overlays the anatomical region of interest and exhibits an apparent parallax image magnification corresponding with the parallax image magnification of a centerline of the anatomical region, such as the hip joint. X-ray images taken by use of the alignment fixture can be viewed and/or scaled to select a properly sized prosthesis for the specific patient.
US08235588B2	Method for automated testing of a material joint In a method for automated, contactless and non-destructive testing of a material joint (4), a dynamic threshold value is varied between a minimum threshold value and a maximum threshold value, with regions of a heat flow dynamics through the material joint (4) being determined which represent values of the heat flow dynamics exceeding the dynamic threshold value. The regions of the heat flow dynamics are examined with respect to an abrupt change in perimeter. An Abrupt change in perimeter occurs if a boundary (7) between a molten zone (5) and a non-molten but still adhering zone (6) of the material joint (4) is being crossed.
US08235587B2	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 locking member and a leaf spring are arranged on the watch sheath. The locking member 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 where operation of the push-button is allowed. The locking member is urged by the leaf spring toward the unlocked position. A circular operating ring surrounds an hour plate mounted on the watch sheath and the operating ring is rotatably mounted to the watch sheath from the front side. The movement of the locking member between the locked position and the unlocked position is interlocked with a rotating operation of the operating ring.
US08235584B2	Chronograph control device The present invention concerns a chronograph control device including a first, pivotably mounted lever, which is activated by a first push-button and whose movement in the direction of the first push-button is limited by a first stop member, and a second, pivotably mounted lever, which is activated by a second push-button and whose movement is limited in the direction of the second push-button by a second stop member. A spring is mounted on the second lever. The first lever is associated with an arm, provided with a beak. The beak cooperates with the spring such that, when one or other of the two levers is activated by one of the push-buttons, the beak and the spring move relative to each other in such a way that the beak is subjected to the return force of the spring.
US08235583B2	Mixing blade with removable wearing element The invention relates to a mixing blade (6) consisting, of a base part (15) fixable to a shaft and a removable wearable element (12). The aim of said invention is to develop a more economical mixing blade. For this purpose, the wearable element (12) and the base part (15) overlap on at least 30% of the base part length and define different cross-sections of the mixing blade (6) in said area.
US08235581B2	Mixing device comprising a rotor rib The present invention relates to a mixing device for mixing a liquid, such as water, with an instant ingredient to form a beverage. The mixing device comprises a mixing chamber and a rotor which, during rotation about the axis of rotation, defines a surface of revolution extending along the circumference of the rotor. The rotor is arranged in the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber comprises a peripheral wall zone having a substantially circular cross section. The peripheral wall zone surrounds the surface of revolution. An outlet duct for discharging the mixture formed is connected to the mixing chamber. The inlet of the outlet duct is provided at the rotor. At least one rotor rib is provided at the peripheral wall zone. This rotor rib extends from the peripheral wall zone in the direction of the surface of revolution of the rotor. The invention furthermore relates to a beverage-making device comprising a mixing device according to the invention, as well as to the use of a mixing device according to the invention.
US08235580B2	Reclaim function for semiconductor processing systems In one embodiment, a method of controlling fluids in a semiconductor processing system includes mixing two or more chemical compounds in a blender to produce a solution and supplying the solution to a reclaim tank, where the solution is dispense to a process station. The solution can be monitored at a location between the tank and the process station to determine whether at least one of the chemical compounds is at a predetermined concentration. Upon determining that the at least one chemical compound in the solution is at the predetermined concentration the solution is flowed to the process station. The method further includes removing at least a portion of the solution from the process station and returning the removed portion of the solution to the reclaim tank. The removed portion of the solution is monitored at a location between the process station and the reclaim tank to determine whether at least one of the chemical compounds in the removed portion of the solution is at a predetermined concentration. Upon determining that the at least one chemical compound in the removed portion of the solution is at the predetermined concentration, the removed portion of solution is flowed to the process station.
US08235579B2	Device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium The invention relates to a method and a device for introducing ultrasound into a flowable medium using a sonotrode, wherein the flowable medium is not in direct contact with the sonotrode. Disclosed is a method comprising the following steps: placing a film (8) on the sonotrode (4) in such a way that the contact force by means of which the film (8) is pressed on the sonotrode (4) is always so great that the film (8) follows the lifting motions of the sonotrode (4) in the corresponding frequency and amplitude; applying ultrasound power through the film (8) into the medium (2) and transmitting the wear phenomena onto the film (8).
US08235578B2	Agitation vessel Provided here is an agitation vessel which enhances energy transmission efficiency in an agitation apparatus and an analysis apparatus, simplifies the structure of the agitation apparatus and the analysis apparatus, and allows for downsizing and improved maintenanceability. An agitation vessel (5) agitates retained liquid by sound waves. A sound wave generating member (24) which generates sound waves is provided integrally with the agitation vessel (5). The agitation vessel (5) includes a bottom wall (5d) and plural side walls (5c) made of an optically transparent material, and a part of the opposing side walls among the plural side walls (5c) is a photometric window (5b) that optically measures the liquid agitated. The sound wave generating member (24) is arranged on the side wall (5c), on which the photometric window (5b) is arranged, among the plural side walls (5c).
US08235576B2	Concrete cooling injection unit and method of injecting a coolant into a concrete mixture A method and apparatus for cooling a mixture with an injection system. The injection system is adjustable to accommodate the relative position and particular specifications of a given container (e.g., concrete mixer). In one embodiment, the injection system is operable to inject a coolant directly into the mixture while in the mixing process.
US08235575B2	LED light board Disclosed is a light emitting diode (LED) light board. The LED light board includes: a light guide panel (LGP) shaped as a rectangle; an LED module disposed at a lateral side of the LGP and including a plurality of LEDs; a first frame having the LED module embedded therein and coupled to one side of an edge of the LGP; a second frame coupled to the other side of the edge of the LGP perpendicular to both ends of the first frame; and a corner finishing end on which the first frame and the second frame are connected to each other and corners of the first frame and the second frame are finished. The first and second frames include a sidewall formed at one edge of the LGP, an upper wing bent on an end of a sidewall, and a lower wing bent on the other end of the sidewall.
US08235567B2	Illuminated interior trim component A lighting system is provided that includes an interior trim component having a light transmissive element. The interior trim component is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The vehicle lighting system also includes a light source optically coupled to the light transmissive element at least while the interior trim component is located in the first position. The light source is configured to illuminate a region of a vehicle interior.
US08235566B2	Straddle-type vehicle A motorcycle is provided with a head light and an auxiliary light that are arranged along an up and down direction of a vehicle, and is provided with a front cover that can cover at least a portion of the legs of a rider. The respective lenses of the head light and the auxiliary light are arranged to be exposed in a forward portion of the vehicle. The front cover has an outside cover that is formed on both sides of the head light and the auxiliary light, and a head light cover that is formed in a portion closer to a center of the front cover than the outside cover. The head light and the auxiliary light protrude forward of the front edge of the outside cover. The head light cover protrudes forward of the outside cover.
US08235563B2	LED lamp An LED lamp includes a bracket and an LED module. The bracket includes a mounting body configured for fixing the LED lamp at a desired position and a heat dissipation portion extending from the body. The LED module includes a circuit board thermally attached to the heat dissipation portion and an LED connected to the circuit board. A lamp cover is secured to the heat dissipation portion and covers the LED module.
US08235558B1	Artificial candles with realistic flames An artificial candle has a delicate glowing shroud or sock that can flutter like a candle flame, and the shroud may surround a “wick” that can be seen through the shroud to glow. Such a diaphanous shroud can be actuated by a fan, air pump, solenoid or conductor, which can be provided adjacent to the shroud or distanced from the shroud, for example in a central body of a chandelier. The wick may be lighted by a light emitting diode (LED), and the shroud can include fluorescent material that absorbs and reradiates some of the light from the wick. The wick and the shroud can be coupled to a shaft that simulates a wax candle body. A standard threaded fitting can be provided so that the artificial candle can thread into a socket to replace a light bulb.
US08235555B2	Multiple use LED light fixture The invention provides a multi-use light fixture that includes a light engine, a rugged housing, and an external power supply removeably embedded within an optional external enclosure. The light fixture includes several novel heat management features designed to reduce the risk of failure and thereby increase the reliability of the light fixture. The light engine includes groups of light modules, each having a light emitting diode (LED) and a zener diode. The housing includes an internal gap defined between the a circuit board and the housing. The housing also includes an arrangement of external fins and vents that dissipate heat generated by the light engine. The lens cover includes a plurality of inlets to supply ambient air into the fixture. During operation, heat is generated by the light modules, namely the LEDs, and then is transferred along a first flow path through a main body portion of the housing and the fins for dissipation to ambient and a second air flow path whereby ambient air flows through the light engine to increase the performance and efficiency of the light engine.
US08235554B2	LED reflector fixture Provided is a light fixture having a first elongate body defining a mounting surface. A light module is disposed adjacent the mounting surface and includes a module body and a plurality of light emitting devices disposed on the mounting body. The light emitting device defines an emitting axis about which light is emitted. The fixture further includes a first reflector member and a second reflector member disposed on opposed sides of the emitting axis for reflecting light emanated by the light emitting devices. The first reflector member and the second reflector member are pivotable to vary the angle at which light is emitted from the light fixture.
US08235552B1	Cordless flashlight and radio device A portable battery-powered device comprises a lamp unit pivotably attached to a front side of a housing. A radio unit is disposed within the housing. At least one speaker is electrically coupled to the radio unit and is disposed on the front side of the housing such that the lamp unit and the speaker face the same direction. A battery pack holder is disposed on a bottom side of the housing and is configured to retain a rechargeable battery pack.
US08235544B2	Solar light assembly for street and park lighting The present solar light assembly uses a unique housing having a light that can be adjustably rotated and tilted for park and street lighting applications. Once assembled, the housing is covered by a solar panel that charges a remotely located battery and acts as a protective lid over the housing. Rather than removing the solar panel to access the contents of the housing, the housing can be accessed by excessively tilting the light until a shroud swings away from an opening in the housing designed to accommodate the light. The shroud, which can retract into the housing, protects the contents of the housing from inclement weather and from view. When the light is excessively tilted, the shroud swings away from the housing to expose wires, electronics and other contents of the housing that may require servicing. Because a solar light system is pole mounted at least several meters above ground level, being able to easily access the housing from below without needing to remove any heavy or awkward parts provides a much safer alternative than other solar light systems.
US08235542B2	Illumination device for paved floor An illumination device for illuminating a paved floor comprising a container, which comprises a box creating a cavity therein and a first frame, integrally connected to the upper rim of the box; an illumination set comprising at least one light source (e.g. LED), where the illumination set is installed inside the container, where at least one light source enables illumination of the illumination device; a cover, which is adapted to be seated within the first frame, where the cover enables light from the illumination set to be transferred therethrough; a second frame, enabling to hold the cover between the first and the second frame; and at least two fastening means enabling to fasten the second frame to the first frame to hold the cover therebetween. The illumination device may be configured to be installed in the paved floor as one of the floor's tiles.
US08235541B2	Backlight module and display device A backlight module including a circuit board, at least one first light emitting diode (LED) device, at least one second LED device, and a reflection device is provided. The first and second LED devices are disposed on a carrying surface of the circuit board and electrically connected to the circuit board. The brightness of the first LED device is greater than that of the second LED device. The reflection device is disposed on the circuit board and exposes the first and second LED devices. The reflection device has at least one first reflection region disposed around the first LED device and at least one second reflection region disposed around the second LED device. The reflection ratio of the first reflection region opposite to the light-emitting energy of the first LED device is smaller than that of the second reflection region opposite to the light-emitting energy of the second LED device.
US08235539B2	Elongated LED lighting fixture The invention provides an elongated lighting fixture with multiple light emitting diodes (LEDs) arrayed in two groups that are angled to each other. The fixture provides an extremely broad light emitting angle and includes an elongated housing having a pair of side walls with at least one fin to dissipate heat. Each side wall has a support member extending upward at angle from the side wall, wherein the side walls terminate at a central wall. A generally transparent cover is connected to the housing and extends between opposed ends of the housing. A first elongated fastener and a second elongated fastener are utilized to mount a first group of LEDs and a second group of LEDs to the first support member and the second support member, respectively. First and second interconnection board assemblies are affixed to respective support members beneath the group of LEDs by the first and second fasteners. When the first and second interconnection board assemblies are energized by an internal power source, current travels from each interconnection assembly through the fasteners to each group of LEDs for illumination.
US08235538B2	LED device with high color-rendering index An LED device with high color-rendering index includes a substrate; three white light units arranged on the substrate, each of the white light units being an LED element that combines a blue light chip with fluorescent glue to produce a mixed light; and a red light unit arranged on the substrate among the three white light units and being an LED element that combines a red light chip with fluorescent powder to produced a mixed light. With the specific arrangement of positioning the red light unit among three white light units, a mixed light produced by the LED device is a visually comfortable warm white light with high color-rendering index. Therefore, the LED device can be used in an environment where a large quantity of LEDs are needed, so largely reduces the users' eye discomfort.
US08235537B2	Plasmonic retroreflectors An article having: a retroreflective optical element and a plasmonic material on the optical element. A method of: performing an optical measurement on a substrate having a plurality of the articles.
US08235536B2	High intensity image projector using sectional mirror Image projectors with increased light intensity and methods for providing brighter images are provided. Image projectors, described herein, can provide the brightness while still providing any or all of compactness, low power consumption, and long lifetime. To increase brightness, sectional mirrors are used to respectively compress the light from two light sources into a single pupil (e.g. an aperture) of an imaging device. The compression can be accomplished by regions (e.g. sections) of the mirror having different angles with respect to the pupil. Relatively little light may be lost in the compression since minima for a light intensity pattern from a light source may occur between the regions that reflect the light.
US08235535B2	Projector and control method of projector A projector which modulates light emitted from a light source and projects the modulated light, includes: a light source drive device which includes a light source drive unit for driving the light source and a light source control unit for controlling operation of the light source drive unit; and a control unit which includes a first communication unit connected with the light source control unit and a second communication unit connected with the light source drive unit, and allows the light source control unit to control operation of the light source drive unit by outputting control command from the first communication unit. The control unit determines whether the control corresponding to the control command has been normally performed, and outputs control information from the second communication unit to control the light source drive unit when it is determined that the control has not been normally performed.
US08235534B2	Projector that projects a correction image between cyclic main image signals A projector has: light source (1R, 1G, 1B); a light modulation unit (6) that modulates a light emitted from the light source based on image signals; a display control unit (41) that outputs the image signals including main cyclic image signals to the light modulation unit, and controls the display thereof; a projection unit (7) that projects the image based on the light modulated by the light modulation unit; and an imaging unit (40) that captures an image to be displayed based on the light projected from the projection unit, and the display control unit inserts a correction image signal for projecting a correction image, which is visually recognized as a uniform white or gray screen when time integration is performed, between the cyclic main image signals.
US08235531B2	Optical interference reducing element for laser projection A laser projection system comprising a laser source system configured to emit coherent light, an optical integrating system configured to uniformize coherent light it receives, a randomizing optical element configured to spatially move over time in order to temporally randomize the phase, angle or spatial location of coherent light it receives, an image forming system configured to interact with laser light that has been both uniformized by the optical integrating system and randomized by the randomizing optical element, thereby forming a laser light image, and a projection system configured to project the laser light image onto a viewing screen.
US08235529B1	Unlocking a screen using eye tracking information Methods and systems for unlocking a screen using eye tracking information are described. A computing system may include a display screen. The computing system may be in a locked mode of operation after a period of inactivity by a user. Locked mode of operation may include a locked screen and reduced functionality of the computing system. The user may attempt to unlock the screen. The computing system may generate a display of a moving object on the display screen of the computing system. An eye tracking system may be coupled to the computing system. The eye tracking system may track eye movement of the user. The computing system may determine that a path associated with the eye movement of the user substantially matches a path associated with the moving object on the display and switch to be in an unlocked mode of operation including unlocking the screen.
US08235527B2	Medical imaging apparatus A medical imaging apparatus capable of concurrently performing a plurality of imaging operations including an imaging sequence setting unit configured to set a sequence for each of the plurality of imaging operations, an overlapping determination unit configured to determine temporal overlapping between an imaging sequence of an imaging operation that is currently performed and an imaging sequence for an imaging operation that is to be started, and an imaging sequence adjustment unit configured to adjust, based on a result of determination made by the overlapping determination unit, the imaging sequence for the imaging operation that is to be started.
US08235522B2	Printing method and printer A printer for printing a barcode by discharging ink droplets from print nozzles that are used for printing bars in the bar code. The printer includes a CPU and a head carriage mechanism. The CPU divides a length of the bars of the barcode into a plurality of segments and changes which of the nozzles that are used as print nozzles in each segment such that the barcode is printed by discharging ink droplets from the print nozzles in each segment. The head carriage mechanism is for moving the print medium relative to the print nozzles. Each bar of the resulting barcode extends in a single, diagonal direction across the plurality of segments. Other printers and printing methods are also provided.
US08235521B2	Recording apparatus A recording apparatus has a pair of bearings 38 having: two surfaces 38a and 38b which support both edge portions of a conveying roller 40; driven rollers 42 which press the conveying roller 40 in the direction where extension lines of the two surfaces 38a and 38b cross; and further, an intermediate bearing 47 which presses the conveying roller 40 in the direction of a point where the extension lines of the two surfaces 38a and 38b cross.
US08235517B2	Printing process The invention relates to an ink jet printing process which comprises the steps of i) applying a radiation-curable primer to a substrate to form a layer of primer, ii) ink jet printing a radiation-curable ink onto the primer layer, and iii) curing the primer and the ink, wherein the viscosity of the primer increases rapidly after application to the substrate.
US08235516B2	Print enhancement of pixels to improve readability A method to improve the image of a printed barcode by enhancing coverage of the print pixels within solid printed areas to improve the print uniformity and decrease the graininess of the typical ink jet printing by dissolving a small percentage of the colorant and distributing more uniformly. The parameter improved by the invention is the graininess or uniformity of coverage. The contrast ratio within barcode data elements can be also improved without causing unwanted image bleed into unintended areas. Hence, the printed barcode will contain more clearly defined printed and non printed areas to enable the barcode to be accurately read. The invention prevents also unwanted bleeding in areas where it could lower the quality of the printed material by avoiding application of enhanced coverage facilitators when desired white space is identified within a minimum distance.
US08235515B2	Thermal ink jet ink compostion A solvent-based ink composition for a thermal inkjet printhead includes (a) 55-90 wt. % of an organic solvent including a ketone and a C1 to C4 alcohol; and (b) 0.01-10 wt. % of a colorant.
US08235514B2	Air extraction device for inkjet printhead An inkjet printhead assembly comprising an array of nozzles fed by a corresponding ink inlet. An ink chamber corresponding to the array of nozzles is fluidly connected to the ink inlet. An air extraction chamber includes an air chamber, a one-way relief valve having an open position that allows venting of the air chamber to ambient, and a closed position that does not allow venting of the air chamber to ambient. A compressible member forces air to be vented from the air chamber through the one-way relief valve in its open position. It also applies a reduced air pressure to a membrane while the one-way relief valve is in its closed position.
US08235510B2	Ink cartridge apparatus for continuously supplying ink An ink cartridge apparatus for continuously supplying ink is provided, including a connection device, an exposed chip socket and a filtering device on an ink cartridge main body. The connection device is for connecting to an ink bottle and the filtering device is for filtering the impurity from the ink flowing from the ink bottle into ink cartridge main body. The exposed chip socket is for the user to replace the chip more conveniently. With the ink supply mechanism of ink bottle into ink cartridge main body, the ink cartridge main body can maintain good ink quality and when the threshold set by the chip is exceeded, the replacement of the chip can be done without removing the entire ink cartridge from the printer so as to achieve the object of continuously supplying ink.
US08235506B2	Electrostatic suction type fluid discharge method and device for the same An electrostatic suction type fluid discharge method and device include a voltage applying means that applies a pulse voltage between a nozzle and a substrate, the nozzle having a diameter ranging from 0.01 μm to 25 μm, an upper limit voltage of the pulse voltage being equal to or greater than a discharge-inducing minimum voltage. A lower limit first voltage can be provided immediately before a rise of the pulse voltage, an absolute value of the lower limit first voltage being set smaller than the discharge-inducing minimum voltage. A lower limit second voltage can be provided immediately after a rise of the pulse voltage, an absolute value of the lower limit second voltage being set smaller than the discharge-inducing minimum voltage. With this structure, it is possible to simultaneously achieve miniaturization of nozzle, discharge of micro fluid droplet, high accuracy for discharge position, and decrease in drive voltage.
US08235504B2	Inkjet head, inkjet apparatus, and inkjet apparatus production method An inkjet head includes a discharge element substrate including a base material provided with an energy generation element for generating energy to be used for discharging ink, a discharge port provided corresponding to the energy generation element, and an electrode pad electrically connected to the energy generation element, an electric contact substrate including an electric contact terminal for receiving an electric signal from an inkjet apparatus, and an electric wiring tape for electrically connecting the electric contact substrate and the discharge element substrate to each other, wherein a sealing member sealing a vicinity of an electric connection portion between the electric contact substrate and the electric wiring tape is a cured product of a composition including a silicone-modified resin, a boron trifluoride compound, and a mercaptosilane compound.
US08235502B2	Printer print engine with cradled cartridge unit A print engine for a printer unit includes a cradle unit including a print engine controller provided on flex printed circuit board, and a cover assembly for covering a recess defined by the cradle; a replaceable cartridge unit received within the recess of the cradle unit in a releasable manner, the replaceable cartridge having a body, an ink storage module assembly, and a pagewidth printhead assembly; and a print media transport means for transporting print media. The ink storage module assembly includes a plurality of ink storage modules received in the body from a first side, and the pagewidth printhead assembly is mounted to the body at a second side opposite the first side. The cover assembly is engaged with the flex printed circuit board to pivot the flex printed circuit board in and out of electrical engagement with the pagewidth printhead assembly upon closing and opening of the cover assembly with respect to the recess.
US08235501B2	Liquid ejecting head unit and liquid ejecting apparatus A liquid ejecting head unit includes: a plurality of liquid ejecting heads, each of which has a nozzle array in which nozzles ejecting liquid droplets are arrayed; a base plate to which the plurality of liquid ejecting heads are fixed in a state being positioned at predetermined positions thereof; and positioning pins which are fixed to the base plate and engaged with positioning holes formed in the liquid ejecting heads. Each of the positioning pins is held in a holding hole provided in a fixing plate fixed to the base plate. A reference plate is joined to a surface of each of the fixing plates. Further, in each of the reference plates, there are provided: an insertion hole in which the positioning pin is substantially inscribed; and a minute hole that serves as a reference for positioning the positioning pin to the base plate.
US08235500B2	Cast-in place ink feed structure using encapsulant A method of forming an enclosed fluid path in a print head includes providing a die member and a truncated nozzle plate spaced from the upper surface of the die member. The die and nozzle plate are formed on a print head substrate having an aperture formed therein. A sacrificial material is seated over the aperture of the print head substrate and joins a terminal end of the truncated nozzle plate. The sacrificial material is encapsulated from the terminal end of the nozzle plate to a surface of the print head substrate. Removal of the sacrificial material defines the fluid path from the aperture of the print head substrate to the nozzle plate.
US08235494B2	Image forming apparatus and ejection liquid circulating method The image forming apparatus includes an upstream side chamber arranged further on an upstream side with respect to an ink flowing direction than a head in a circulating path and configured to temporarily store the ejection liquid that should be supplied to the head through the circulating path, a downstream side chamber arranged further on a downstream side than the head and further on the upstream side than the upstream side chamber in the circulating path and configured to temporarily store the ejection liquid collected from the head, and a pressure-difference adjusting mechanism configured to form a first pressure state in which the pressure in the downstream side chamber is lower than the pressure in the upstream side chamber and the head and a second pressure state in which the pressure in the upstream side chamber is lower than the pressure in the downstream side chamber.
US08235488B2	Electronic apparatus and method to control electronic apparatus An electronic apparatus capable of preventing a peak current from being introduced into internal units of the electronic apparatus when the internal units are simultaneously activated and a method to control one or more internal units thereof. The electronic apparatus includes at least one internal unit and a signal generator to generate a drive pulse having a width that gradually changes in an edge region and to drive the at least one internal unit. Accordingly a peak current is prevented from being introduced into the internal units by gradually increasing or decreasing the drive pulse to drive the internal units as time changes or by dividing the internal units into a block unit and sequentially providing the drive pulse to the internal units.
US08235486B2	Recording element substrate, recording head including the same, and recording head cartridge Even when a contact connection failure of electrical connection occurs between a recording head including a recording element substrate, and a recording apparatus, continuous driving of the same heat generating resistive element is suppressed. Blocks in which heat generating resistive elements are not driven are prepared beforehand in a selection target of blocks to be driven in a time-division manner. When an input signal is in a predetermined condition, the block selection target is set to blocks in which heat generating resistive elements are not driven.
US08235482B2	Liquid ejection apparatus, image forming apparatus and liquid storage amount judgment method The liquid ejection apparatus has: a sub tank having a liquid chamber which stores liquid, a gas chamber which fills with gas, and a flexible film which divides the liquid chamber from the gas chamber; a liquid tank which is connected to the liquid chamber and stores the liquid; a liquid conveyance device which conveys the liquid between the liquid chamber and the liquid tank; an ejection head connected to the liquid chamber; a control device which carries out control in such a manner that pressure in the gas chamber is controlled to control back pressure of the liquid in the ejection head; a liquid pressure determination device which determines pressure in the liquid chamber; a gas pressure determination device which determines the pressure in the gas chamber; and a liquid storage amount judgment device which judges whether or not an amount of the liquid stored in the liquid chamber is within a tolerable range in which the back pressure of the liquid in the ejection head can be controlled, according to a gas-liquid pressure differential which is a difference between the pressure of the liquid chamber determined by the liquid pressure determination device and the pressure of the gas chamber determined by the gas pressure determination device.
US08235478B2	Acceleration device with two energy stores In an acceleration device including a carrier element movably disposed in a housing together with a first energy store which is connected to the carrier element for moving the carrier element from a locked parking position to an end position while its energy is being discharged, a second energy store, which is charged with an initial energy amount when the carrier element is in the parking position, is associated with a guide element and is discharged upon release of the carrier element from the parking position while the carrier element is moved to an end position opposite the parking position. The second energy store, while being discharged to a residual energy amount, controls, by means of the guide element, the energy change rate of the first energy store at least in a part of its discharge time interval.
US08235475B2	Anti-tip interlocking linkage mechanism for vertical cabinets An anti-tip linkage mechanism for vertical file cabinets of the type having drawers and/or pivotal front panels includes molded polymeric cam follower housings that snap-fit onto each of the slide channels for the drawers or panels and non-circular connecting rods attached to cam actuators that enable interaction of the anti-tip mechanisms incorporated with each slide channel. Lock actuated auxiliary cam mechanisms and panel locking assemblies controllable by a single cabinet lock are connected with a cabinet lock by linkage bars or cables.
US08235472B2	Braking system for motorcycle A braking system for a motorcycle includes a pressure regulating unit interposed between hydraulic pressure generating unit and a wheel brake, a control unit which controls operation of the pressure regulating unit so as to regulate hydraulic pressure outputted from the hydraulic pressure generating unit and exert the regulated pressure on the wheel brake, a support fixing the pressure regulating unit to an engine body mounted on a body frame of the motorcycle, and an elastic member disposed between the support and the pressure regulating unit for reducing or preventing vibration of the engine body being transmitted to the pressure regulating unit.
US08235471B2	Apparatus for controlling pump driving motor An apparatus for controlling a pump driving motor includes estimated fluid volume obtaining means for obtaining an estimated volume of a brake fluid discharged to a reservoir, hydraulic pump controlling means for specifying the number of rotations of the motor for driving a hydraulic pump based on the estimated volume and for driving the hydraulic pump with the specified number of rotations, and changing means for changing the number of rotations of the motor to be smaller than the number of rotations specified on the basis of the estimated volume in a case where an actual time defined from a driving start of the hydraulic pump to a point where the brake fluid in the reservoir actually turns to zero is shorter than an estimated time over which the estimated volume turns to zero by a driving of the hydraulic pump with the specified number of rotations of the motor.
US08235470B2	Cutter head containing its motors and gearcase An apparatus for mining a mineral seam, comprising a motor, and a cutting drum carried on the frame for winning aggregate material from the mineral seam. The cutting drum encloses the motor, and a gear case drivingly connected between the motor and the cutting drum transmits power from the motor to the cutting drum. The gear case is also enclosed within the cutting drum.
US08235455B2	Retractable room actuation assembly for recreational vehicle having engagement means for maintaining constant distance between drive members and engagement members A slide-out or retractable room for a mobile living quarters, such as a recreational vehicle, is provided with actuating assemblies mounted on opposite side walls of the slide-out room and the adjacent wall of the main living area. The actuating assemblies include a pair of parallel gear racks mounted on the side wall, which are engaged by pinions rotated by torque shafts mounted on the main living quarters. Each torque shaft is rotated by a separate motor. A roller engages a bearing surface on the lower portion of the gear racks. Accordingly, the slide-out room is extended and retracted by rotating the torque shafts to cause the gear racks and the attached slide-out room to extend and retract. The weight of the slide-out room is supported by the rollers, thereby supporting the slide-out room off of the floor of the main living quarters as it extends and retracts. A synchronizing control operates the motors.
US08235454B2	Vehicle with a sliding door A vehicle comprises a body, a sliding door, which comprises a guide rail and a sliding carriage which is longitudinally movably mounted on the guide rail and which is connected with the body by a multiple joint, and a centering element which is releasably connectable with a counter bearing. To improve such vehicle, a counter bearing and/or a centering element are provided in the roof region and in the floor region of the body.
US08235453B2	Vehicle slide door alignment system A system for aligning a slide door of a vehicle. A pair of locating features, each having a male part and a female part, are attached to a surface of a pillar of the vehicle and to a surface of the door. A rail is attached to the body, the rail having a non-flared portion and a flared portion. A wheel attached to the door is movable along the rail. The wheel is laterally constrained in the non-flared portion of the rail when the door is in an open condition and are laterally movable in the flared portions of the rail when the door is proximate a closed condition. A projecting portion of the male part mates with a receptacle of the female part when the slide door is closed, laterally adjusting and aligning the door with respect to the outer body panel.
US08235452B2	Window assembly for vehicle A window assembly for a vehicle includes a window panel comprising inner and outer surfaces terminating at a peripheral edge, An attachment member is adhesively bonded to the window panel at a mounting area of the inner surface by a layer of cured adhesive. The attachment member is a generally S-shaped metallic attachment member having a panel attachment flange, a vehicle attachment flange, and a leg disposed between the flanges and spacing the panel attachment flange from the vehicle attachment flange. The panel attachment flange is configured to conform to the inner surface of the window panel at the mounting area. A fastener at the vehicle attachment flange attaches the vehicle attachment flange to the vehicle to mount the window assembly at the vehicle. The fastener protrudes from the vehicle attachment flange and generally away from the panel attachment flange and the window panel.
US08235448B2	Headliner for convertible vehicle This invention relates to a convertible vehicle having a movable roof supported by lateral linkage parts. An inner lining or headliner faces the passenger compartment when the roof is closed. The outer transverse margins of the headliner extend below and contact lateral sections, which also serve as carriers for seals for the side window panes.
US08235446B2	Folding vehicle seat A folding vehicle seat is adapted to be stored on a first portion of a vehicle body floor and retained on the first portion by a retaining belt arrangement which includes a belt attached at its lower end to a vertical wall extending upward from the floor and a hook attached to an upper end of the belt. The upper end is inserted through a ring attached to the wall. The seat includes a seat cushion pivotally supported on a second portion of the floor and a seat back pivotally supported by the cushion, the cushion and back being adapted to be put together as a single body which is adapted to be pivoted from the second portion toward the first portion and has an engagement mechanism with which the hook is adapted to be engaged at the time when the body is stored on the first portion.
US08235431B2	Door furniture mounting assembly A door furniture mounting assembly (10, 10′) including a relatively smaller rosette (12) with a handle side and a door side. The door side of the rosette (12) includes at least one exterior recess (24) adapted for rotational and axial engagement with at least one inwardly extending protuberance (32) on the door side of a relatively larger rosette sleeve (30).
US08235430B2	Window vent stop with flexible side engagement pieces A window vent stop for use in a sliding sash window assembly or a sliding door assembly. The vent stop has a housing adapted to be disposed in a recess in the non-movable sash member. This housing includes a cavity with a bottom plate therein. The tumbler has at least one pivot for pivotally securing the tumbler to the housing for movement between an extended position, to prevent movement of the sliding member and a retracted position, to allow movement of the sliding member. Also within the housing is a spring for biasing the tumbler. The housing has one or more flexible members extending from the end walls of the housing that secure the housing to an opening in a window sash when a portion of the window sash is positioned between the underside of a lip on said housing and the flexible member.
US08235428B2	Lock unit having a slotted pawl A lock unit for a vehicle includes a rotatable catch biased in an opening direction about a catch rotation axis toward an open position of the lock unit in which a first recess of the catch is configured to receive a striker of the vehicle. Additionally, the catch includes a second recess disposed before the first recess in the opening direction. A pawl including a slot rotatable about a fixed pawl pivot axis is biased toward both the catch and the pawl pivot axis. The pawl includes a blocking arm which extends into the second recess of the catch when the lock unit is in a secondary latched position. A blocking lever of a ratchet abuts the blocking arm of the pawl against the catch in a primary latched position of the lock unit preventing rotation of the pawl away from the catch. When the lock unit is forced from the secondary latched position to the primary latched position, the pawl moves in a longitudinal direction of the slot avoiding the rotational blocking action of the ratchet.
US08235417B2	Apparatus and method for releasing an inflation gas from an inflator An external containment device for an inflator of an inflatable cushion is provided, the external containment device having: an outlet plate having an outlet opening; a burst disk disposed over the outlet opening; an initiator having an initiator cap; a support pin having a shaft portion and a head portion, the shaft portion being supported by the initiator cap and the head portion contacts the burst disk when the outlet opening is sealed by the burst disk; and wherein activation of the initiator causes the initiator cap to move shearing a portion of the shaft portion from the support pin which allows the burst disk to rupture.
US08235413B2	Airbag housing An airbag assembly for use within a vehicle includes an airbag, an inflator configured to provide gas to the airbag, and a housing configured to retain the inflator and the airbag in position. The housing includes first and second portions configured to be separably coupled together. The second housing portion includes a second snap mechanism for engaging with a first snap mechanism located on the first housing portion. The engaged housing portions surround and retain the inflator and the airbag in position.
US08235412B2	Folding trailer A trailer of the type adapted to be folded from an expanded state to a compact state. The trailer includes a central chassis portion with pivot means at longitudinal ends thereof, as well as a front and rear chassis portion pivotably connected to the central chassis portion through respective front and rear pivot means. When the trailer is in the expanded state, the front chassis portion, rear chassis portion and central chassis portion extend in a substantially horizontal plane, and when the trailer is in the compact state, the front chassis portion and rear chassis portion extend substantially perpendicularly to the central chassis portion. In this state, at least one of the front or rear chassis portions extends at least partially below the central chassis portion to thereby assist in stabilizing the trailer in the compact state.
US08235403B2	Suspension assembly A suspension system includes a frame mount assembly, a swing arm assembly and an air spring. The trailer includes a rail with top and bottom rail surfaces. The swing arm assembly is pivotally mounted to a pivot about a swing arm pivot axis located above the bottom rail surface when the suspension assembly is mounted to the trailer.
US08235402B2	Coupling device of a transport cart with a structure of a supply panel for medical applications A coupling device of a transport cart, through which the transport cart can be coupled to a structure of a supply panel for medical applications, wherein the supply panel can be positioned through a ceiling mount. The coupling device has a first and a second jaw that can be coupled to the structure of the supply panel, wherein, in order to couple the transport cart to the structure, the first jaw, via a first latching device, and the second jaw, via a second latching device, can be locked into a closed position (FIG. 6) from a stopped, uncoupled open position upon mechanical pressure contact with the structure.
US08235401B1	Lever assist for a transport dolly The lever assist device which is attached to the axle of a transport dolly has a foot pedal which is spring biased to a first, vertical inactive position, may be engaged by the foot of a user to reduce the draw force required to rotate the loaded dolly onto its wheels for displacement.
US08235400B2	Multi-use child seating apparatus A multi-use child seating apparatus is provided for attachment to a number of frame structures, including a shopping cart, a table, a walker unit, a child activity center, and the like. A seating unit includes a seating frame and a flexible seat for receiving a child in a seated position therein. A mounting mechanism attached to the seating frame is adapted for mounting the seating apparatus to a frame structure, such as the handlebar of a shopping cart, and at least one connector is provided to secure the seating apparatus to the frame structure and brace the seating unit from movement when a child is seated in the flexible seat. A plurality of legs may be movably connected to the seating frame and moved to a deployed position to engage a frame structure, such as a table, to further secure the seating apparatus to the frame structure.
US08235398B2	Control system for leaning vehicle A method of operating a leaning vehicle is described. The method includes: determining a steering torque exerted on a steering assembly; determining a speed of travel of the vehicle; determining a leaning angle of a frame of the vehicle with respect to a reference angle; and exerting a leaning torque on the frame relative to a pivotable frame member about a pivot axis in a first direction using an actuator in response to a steering torque exerted on the steering assembly in a second direction opposite the first direction when a speed of travel of the vehicle is above a threshold speed, thereby causing the vehicle to turn in the first direction.
US08235392B2	Seal arrangement The invention relates to a sealing arrangement for a non-hermetic seal of a gap (11) between a stator and a rotor with a brush seal (13), wherein the brush seal (13) has a bristle package (14) with several bristles (15), the bristles are wound about a core element (16) and fixed to the core element (16), wherein the brush seal (13) is disposed at least sectionally in an accommodating space, which is bounded by a supporting element (18) and a covering element (19), and wherein the bristles (15) have sealing bristle sections (21), which are at an angle to the bristle shafts (20) and the ends of which run against a sealing surface (22) of the rotor (12). According to the invention, the covering element (19) has a support surface (23) at an end adjacent to the sealing bristle sections (21), wherein the supporting surface (23) contacts the bristle shafts (20) in a defined, locally limited region, so that the radial mobility of the sealing bristle sections (21) is limited in the direction of the rotor (12).
US08235390B1	Automated target assembly An automated target assembly includes a target post, a target carriage carried by the target post, a target having a switch activation flange pivotally carried by the target carriage, a target linkage assembly engaging the target carriage, a power supply, a drive motor connected to the power supply and drivingly engaging the target linkage assembly and a target switch connected to the power supply and the drive motor within a travel path of the switch activation flange.
US08235389B1	Beer pong table with cooling system A beer pong table is provided herein which, includes an elongated, planar member having a top surface. A hole extends through the top surface and at least partially through the planar member so as to define a first recess in the planar member, with a cooling arrangement being disposed in the first recess. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a beer pong table may be provided with a recessed cooling arrangement. The recessed arrangement provides flexibility in cup arrangement during play and facilitates cleaning.
US08235386B1	Sheet processing A sheet processing system, comprising a number of drums for processing sheets, one of the drums comprising a seam area and a non-seam area, a gap between the drums, an actuator for displacing one of the drums for setting the gap, a manager, comprising a memory and a processor, that regulates the actuator current when the non-seam area passes through a nip so as to maintain a nip pressure, and signals the actuator to adjust the gap according to a predetermined gap setpoint profile when the seam area passes through the nip.
US08235383B2	Discharge device and image forming apparatus A discharge device includes: a discharge unit that discharges a recording medium in a discharge direction; and a forming unit arranged downstream of the discharge unit and adapted to form an oblique corrugation with respect to the discharge direction on the recording medium.
US08235376B2	Removable input tray assembly having an integrated roller nip for an image forming device A removable input tray assembly for an image forming device according to one embodiment includes a media tray having a bottom surface and a wall extending upward from the bottom surface. The bottom surface defines a media storage location for storing a stack of media sheets. The assembly further includes a housing having an opening therein to receive the media tray. An inclined media dam is formed in the wall and has a media contact surface for directing media advanced from the media storage location. A channel is provided in the wall and extends the height of the wall for directing media passing therethrough. A roller nip is formed in the channel within the media tray by a pair of rollers for advancing media through the channel.
US08235375B2	Image forming system with two binding units and recording material processing device including an image forming system with two binding units An image forming system includes an image forming unit that forms images on recording materials; a stacking unit used for stacking the recording materials having the images formed thereon as a bundle; a first binding unit that binds, by a first binding operation, first edge portions of the bundle; a second binding unit that binds, by a second binding operation, second edge portions of the bundle; a reversing transporting unit that reverses front and back surfaces of the recording materials having the images formed thereon, and that transports the reversed recording materials to the stacking unit; and a controller that performs control to determine whether or not to cause the reversing transporting unit to reverse and transport the recording materials, on the basis of orientations of the images with respect to the recording materials and positions of the first and second binding operations.
US08235369B2	Cart support system for dynamoelectric machine coils A cart system is provided for a coil of a dynamoelectric machine. The cart system includes one or more support rails disposed substantially horizontally, a plurality of lifting rails disposed substantially vertically, and connected at one end to the one or more support rails, and a plurality of coil clamps for applying a compressive force. The coil clamps are attached to the lifting rails in a removable manner. The coil of the dynamoelectric machine can be placed on the cart system and the coil clamps can be arranged on the lifting rails to apply a compressive force to the coil to facilitate a testing procedure.
US08235362B2	Fluid distribution to parallel flow vapor-liquid contacting trays Fluid distribution systems, and particularly those for distributing liquids into apparatuses containing parallel flow trays for carrying out vapor-liquid contacting, are described. Representative fluid distribution systems comprise one or more extended troughs having a plurality of outlet spouts that are aligned for distribution to a vapor-liquid contacting deck zones of a parallel flow stage. The trough(s) may be orthogonal to liquid distribution pans which are in alignment with outlet spouts (e.g., in discrete outlet spout zones) of the trough(s).
US08235361B2	Structured packing for a reactor A structured packing for a reactor is formed from a metal sheet to promote heat and mass transfer near the wall of the reactor. The structured packing causes lateral flow of fluids flowing through the packing such that jet impingement of at least one reactor wall is promoted. The packing may be used in a cylindrical, annular or plate-type reactor, e.g., a catalytic reactor, or a heat exchanger.
US08235357B2	Valve gear having a valve stem and a valve bush A valve gear in which corrosion due to a potential difference does not occur and which can reduce the corrosion occurrence even when loads due to microvibrations are given. The valve gear includes a valve stem and a valve bush that slidably supports the valve stem. The valve stem is formed from a forged part made of a Ni-based superalloy and the valve bush is formed from a cast part made of a Ni-based superalloy. The preferable surface roughness of a sliding surface of the valve stem in contact with the valve bush and the preferable surface roughness of a sliding surface of the valve bush in contact with the valve stem is 100 μM or less in units of Rz.
US08235351B1	Shock load isolation mounting A shock load isolation mounting system that incorporates a dashpot into each shock load isolation mount to provide damping. Each shock load isolation mount includes a shock mount portion having a first end fixed to the object to be isolated from shock loads, a second end, and an intermediate section between the first end and the second end. Each isolation mount also includes a dashpot mounted in series with the shock mount portion. The dashpot includes a moveable piston and a cylinder that receives the piston therein. The piston is fixed to the second end of the shock mount portion, and the cylinder is fixed to a support that is fixed relative to the object so that the dashpot provides damping in directions parallel to compression and tension directions of the shock mount portion.
US08235346B2	Support bracket for a column A, support bracket and column for supporting an elevated structure during and after construction. The support bracket includes a connection plate that is attached to and overlapped by the column base so that the support bracket is concealed from view when construction is completed, and variations of the support bracket provide means to raise or lower the attached column during construction.
US08235345B2	Gas turbine engine systems and related methods involving thermally isolated retention Gas turbine engine systems and related methods involving thermally isolated retention are provided. In this regard, a representative method for attaching a gas turbine engine component includes using a fastener, varying in diameter along a length thereof, to prevent a portion of a component from being crimped between surfaces to which the component is attached such that the component moves relative to the surfaces responsive to thermal cycling of a gas turbine engine of which the surfaces and the component are constituent parts.
US08235343B2	Fixing device for fixing backlight module A fixing device includes a base, a first fixing arm, and a second fixing arm. The base has a first guiding slot and a second guiding slot perpendicular to the first guiding slot defined therein. The first fixing arm includes a first guiding rod and a first abutting portion slidably engaged with the first guiding rod. The first guiding rod extends through the first abutting portion and the base at the first guiding slot to move along the first guiding slot. The second fixing arm includes a second guiding rod and a second abutting portion fixedly engaged with the second guiding rod. The second guiding rod extends through the second abutting portion and the base at the second guiding slot to move along the second guiding slot. The first abutting portion and the second abutting portion cooperatively define a receiving space for fixedly receiving the backlight module on the base.
US08235340B2	Portable aviation clamp A spring-loaded clamp device including a C-shaped frame having first and second substantially opposing arms interconnected by an intermediate shank, the first arm having a substantially hollow carrier sleeve aligned substantially along a clamping direction oriented substantially transverse of the second arm, and the second arm having a thin and flat anvil portion positioned opposite from the carrier sleeve and further comprising an interior clamping surface that is oriented substantially transverse of the clamping direction. A clamping rod is carried in the hollow of the sleeve for longitudinal movement in the clamping direction toward an internal face of the second arm and in an opposite unclamping direction away from the second arm. An expansive biasing member is coupled for expanding the clamping rod for longitudinal movement along the clamping direction.
US08235339B2	Method and apparatus for engaging a rail with various support structures An assembly for engaging a rail with support structures includes a bracket disposed at an end of the rail. The bracket is configured to rotate between at least first and second positions such that the bracket can present at least first or second different engagement features for engaging with different kinds of support structures.
US08235334B1	Tablet computer holder and support A foldable support for a tablet computer or other object is an upright, self-standing or anchorable device. A base having foldout wings is adapted to be rotated in place and anchored under the legs of a person in a seated position, or under the person's torso for a reclining or supine person. The support includes a body with a recessed portion into which the base is attached about a horizontal axle to enable the rotation. Two arms are rotatably pinned together with the other ends attached to ball joints on the body and a receptacle. The receptacle holds the tablet computer or other object and includes a frame housing with rotatably attached rods that extend outwardly from side openings in the frame. A gripper is mounted to the far end of each rod to hold the corners or edges of the tablet computer or other object mounted between the grippers.
US08235333B2	Stabilization system for high-pressure water jet feed line A support system (10) for stabilizing a high-pressure feed line (15) in a high-speed water jet food portioner, comprising a rigid span assembly (12) connected at one end to an extendable universal joint (40) that provides rotational motion around two axes (36, 37) as well as linear freedom along a third axis (38), and at the other end to a rod-end bearing (17) that permits motion about two axes at a fixed attachment point. The extendable universal joint (40) and the rod-end bearing (17) are each anchored to a fixed point, one on a portioner housing and the other on a cutting carriage such that the rigid span assembly (12) is allowed freedom at one end to move with the rapid and dramatically changing motion of the cutting carriage in order to provide support to the high-pressure feed line (15) mounted thereon, with minimal vibration.
US08235332B2	Bracket for attaching hoses A bracket for attaching a hose comprising a strip adapted to surround a hose, an end portion connected to the strip and a locking portion to close the strip about the hose, in which the locking portion is configured to cooperate with a threaded fastening device to fasten the bracket to a support is provided. The bracket further comprises at least one anti-rotation device adapted to cooperate with one of the threaded fastening device and the support.
US08235329B1	Dynamically actuated adaptive control structures A vehicle control method (and concomitant control structure) comprising deploying an electrolaminate affixed to a substrate and using the combination to control motion of the vehicle.
US08235327B2	Adjustable servomechanism assemblies and associated systems and methods Adjustable servomechanism assemblies and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. An unmanned aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a movable mechanism and a servomechanism assembly operably coupled to the movable mechanism. The system also includes an interface assembly operably coupled to an output shaft of the servo and the movable mechanism. The interface assembly includes an adapter portion carried by the output shaft and an output arm releasably engaged with the adapter portion. The adapter portion includes a first aperture having a non-round surface mated with a non-round surface of the output shaft, and a generally smooth, non-splined, engagement surface. The output arm includes a second aperture sized to receive at least a portion of the outer surface of the adapter portion. The second aperture includes generally smooth inner surface in contact with and rotatable through 360 degrees relative to the engagement surface of the adapter portion.
US08235322B1	Handling excess optical fiber A fiber storage unit, including a base, a ring adapted to rotate relative to the base and a fiber fixedly attached at a first point to the base and at a second point to the ring. The fiber is attached in a manner that the fiber portion between the first and second points is arranged as a spiral which changes its number of rounds when the ring is rotated relative to the base, but the fiber portion beyond the first point is not substantially twisted by rotation of the ring. The fiber preserves a bending radius above a critical bending radius of the fiber.
US08235320B2	Dual-bearing reel The reel unit has a first side plate made of a magnesium alloy and a first side cover made of an aluminum alloy mounted to a side of the first side plate. The first side plate has an opening and a plurality of plate-like members made of an aluminum alloy mounted to the first side plate around the opening. The first side cover has an opening, and a brake case made of an aluminum alloy turnably mounted in the opening. Aluminum alloy protrusions are formed on an outer peripheral side of the brake case. The first side cover is secured to the first side plat by causing the protrusions formed on the brake case to engage in a bayonet fashion with the plate-like members separately attached to the first side plate.
US08235317B2	Adjustable grinder and a stator for the adjustable grinder An adjustable grinder, includes a container, a stator, a rotor, a drum, and a rotary slide. The container can hold a product to be ground. The stator is positioned on the container. The rotor is positioned opposite to the stator and can rotate with respect to the stator. The stator and the rotor each contain at least two rows of teeth to grind the product therebetween. The drum is positioned around the rotor. The rotary slide includes a pointer that can be adjusted such that a distance between the stator and the rotor increases or decreases. Additionally, the stator may include at least two extended teeth.
US08235312B2	Electrostatic atomizer Disclosed is an electrostatic atomizer, which comprises a high-voltage applying section adapted to apply a high voltage between an atomizing electrode and a counter electrode so as to electrostatically atomize water supplied onto the atomizing electrode, wherein the high-voltage applying section is operable to set an absolute value of a voltage to be applied to the atomizing electrode smaller than an absolute value of a voltage to be applied to the counter electrode. This allows a physical object, such as an article stored in a mist-receiving space or an inner wall of a structural member defining the mist-receiving space to become less likely to be electrostatically charged, and makes it possible to avoid causing a problem about discomfort due to discharge of static charges when a user touches the physical object.
US08235309B2	Advanced high performance horizontal piezoelectric hybrid synthetic jet actuator The present invention comprises a high performance, horizontal, zero-net mass-flux, synthetic jet actuator for active control of viscous, separated flow on subsonic and supersonic vehicles. The present invention is a horizontal piezoelectric hybrid zero-net mass-flux actuator, in which all the walls of the chamber are electrically controlled synergistically to reduce or enlarge the volume of the synthetic jet actuator chamber in three dimensions simultaneously and to reduce or enlarge the diameter of orifice of the synthetic jet actuator simultaneously with the reduction or enlargement of the volume of the chamber. The present invention is capable of installation in the wing surface as well as embedding in the wetted surfaces of a supersonic inlet. The jet velocity and mass flow rate for the SJA-H will be several times higher than conventional piezoelectric actuators.
US08235301B2	RFID tag for use in dosimetry Described is a dosimeter sled comprising: one or more optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) sensors mounted in the dosimeter sled and an RFID tag comprising an antenna for communicating with an RFID tag reader and a non-volatile memory for storing data therein.
US08235299B2	Wireless IC device and component for wireless IC device A wireless IC device includes a cutout portion having no aluminum-deposited film that is provided at an end of an article package made of an aluminum-deposited laminated film, and an electromagnetic coupling module is provided at the cutout portion. The electromagnetic coupling module and the aluminum-deposited film of the package define a wireless IC device. A loop electrode, which is a magnetic field transmission auxiliary radiator of the electromagnetic coupling module, is coupled to the aluminum-deposited film of the package. Thus, the article package functions as a radiator of an antenna.
US08235297B2	Wrapped container A wrapped container of consumer products bearing one or more machine readable indicia is disclosed, wherein the machine readable indicia are applied to the wrapper. The portion of the wrapper to which the machine readable indicia are applied may be substantially transparent and the surface of the container behind the machine readable indicia substantially neutral. Alternatively, the portion of the wrapper to which the machine readable indicia are applied may be substantially opaque. A method of providing a wrapped container of consumer products comprises wrapping a container of consumer products with a wrapper; and applying one or more machine readable indicia to the wrapper.
US08235292B2	System and method for verifying the connection status of couplable elements A system for verifying the connection status of couplable elements employs a code member having a pattern defining a machine-readable optical code disposed thereupon. The code member is physically divided into a number of separate segments each having a portion of the pattern defined thereupon. These segments are affixed to a series of couplable elements so that when those elements are appropriately coupled together, the code segments will be in an aligned relationship so as to form a particular optically readable pattern of data indicative of proper coupling of the elements. Further disclosed are methods employing the system.
US08235291B2	PDA compatible text scanner An optical text scanning device compatible with a small handheld computer such as a personal digital assistant (PDA). The scanning device allows for a clear view of the text that is scanned simultaneous to the scanning process so that the operator can continuously align the device to the text. The scanned images of the text are converted in real-time to standard byte or word characters for subsequent display on the computer's viewing screen. The operator can quickly verify the accuracy of the conversion by comparing the displayed character with the actual character of text on the surface that is being scanned. Scanned text characters are stored in standard digital text files for ease of manipulation.
US08235289B2	Point of sale terminal for engagement with a mobile communicator A point of sale terminal including a housing including at least first and second housing portions which are arranged for relative axial movement from a closed position to an open position, the first housing portion including at least a communications interface adapted for operative communications engagement with a mobile communicator and a first housing portion socket adapted for partially surrounding the mobile communicator, the second housing portion including a second housing portion socket adapted for partially surrounding the mobile communicator and the first and second housing portions being configured such that when they are arranged in the closed position the first housing portion socket and the second housing portion socket together hug the mobile communicator and prevent unwanted disengagement of the mobile communicator therefrom.
US08235288B2	Method for use in association with identification token and apparatus including identification token In some embodiments, a method comprises: sensing at least one of movement and position of an identification token; determining if a criteria is satisfied; and enabling operation of the identification token if the criteria is satisfied; wherein determining if the criteria is satisfied comprises determining if the at least one of movement and position satisfies a reference criteria; and wherein the sensor comprises a sensor to provide a signal indicative of at least one of movement and position of the identification token prior to presentation to a proximity coupling device. In some embodiments, apparatus comprises: an identification token comprising: a sensor to provide a signal indicative of at least one of movement and position of the identification token; circuitry, to receive the signal, to determine if a criteria is satisfied, and to enable operation of the identification token if the criteria is satisfied; wherein the circuitry comprises circuitry to determine if the at least one of movement and position satisfies a reference criteria wherein the sensor comprises a sensor to provide a signal indicative of at least one of movement and position of the identification token prior to presentation to a proximity coupling device.
US08235286B2	Card capable of authentication It is possible to prevent use of a forged card. An authentication chip describing information which cannot be copied or difficult to be copied is attached to a card and a card processing device includes a card authentication processing device. The information described in the authentication chip is degitized and encrypted to obtain encrypted data, which is described on an authentication certifying chip. The authentication certifying chip is attached to the card. The authentication certifying chip checks the validity of the authentication chip. Before a specific operation such as entry of a password is started, it is judged whether the card is true so as to exclude a forged card.
US08235285B1	Systems and methods for gesture-based interaction with computer systems The present disclosure facilitates gesture-based interaction with a computer-system. The method may comprise pairing a transaction account with a likeness, receiving the likeness and a transaction request based upon the location of a marker in three dimensional space, retrieving the transaction account paired with the likeness, and approving the transaction request at least partially based upon the transaction account and the likeness.
US08235280B2	E-paper display control of classified content based on E-paper conformation A method for one or more portions of one or more regions of an electronic paper assembly having one or more display layers includes, but is not limited to: obtaining first information associated with one or more conformations of one or more portions of one or more regions of the electronic paper assembly and controlling display of one or more portions of one or more display layers of the electronic paper assembly regarding display of second information having one or more classifications in response to the first information associated with the one or more conformations of the one or more portions of the one or more regions of the electronic paper assembly. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.
US08235279B2	Top or bottom structure for a folded container A plastics-coated paperboard carton blank comprises an end part for forming a bottom end closure of the carton; the end part comprises first, second, third and fourth end panels (6-9) whereof the first and third end panels (6,8) are for forming outside panels (6,8) of the end closure and the second and fourth panels (7,9) are for forming inside panels (7,9) of the end closure; the free end portion (12) of the third end panel (8) is cut out at both sides in a laterally symmetrical manner with respect to its middle, so as to leave a central tongue (17), and the free end portions (11,13) of the second and fourth panels (7,9), respectively, are cut out at their sides adjacent to the third end panel (8), so as to form respective cut-outs (36,40); and the cut-outs (36,40) have respective edges (32,34) thereof which are further from the tongue (17) disposed obliquely relative to adjacent edges (42,44) of the respective cut-outs (36,40) and diverging outwardly relative to each other.
US08235273B2	Center cinch and release of buttress material A buttressed anvil assembly is provided for use with a surgical stapling instrument. The buttressed anvil assembly generally includes an anvil member having a strip of buttress material attached thereto by a pair of sutures. A tensioning mechanism is provided to secure or tension the buttress material to the anvil member prior to use and allow for release of the buttress material after stapling of tissue. The tensioning mechanism includes a cinch track engageable with one of the pair of sutures.
US08235272B2	Surgical stapling device with captive anvil A device for clamping tissue includes a first jaw having a distal portion for communicating with tissue and a proximal portion having a first wing and a second wing. The device also includes a second jaw having a distal portion for communicating with tissue and a proximal portion having a first slot and a second slot, the first slot disposed between a middle structure and a first lateral structure, the second slot disposed between the middle structure and a second lateral structure. The first jaw is rotatably coupleable to the second jaw with the first wing extending into the first slot and the second wing extending into the second slot.
US08235271B1	Stackable desk-top tape dispenser and stapler A stapler is stacked on top of a roll-type tape dispenser. The tape dispenser top surface and the stapler base bottom surface have complemental three dimensional contours which cause the tape dispenser and stapler longitudinal axes to be in parallel relationship when the surfaces are in abutment, prevent relative displacement of the tape dispenser and the stapler when they are stacked and permit the stapler to be dismounted from the tape dispenser and rested for separate use on a flat surface in a stable condition.
US08235269B2	Cargo space floor having a ski rack and motor vehicle having such a cargo space floor A cargo space floor is provided for a motor vehicle and a ski rack is positioned on the cargo space floor that may be pivoted from a lower nonuse position around a first pivot axis into an upper usage position, in which a ski may be fastened to the ski rack. The ski rack has at least one first support strut and one second support strut that are spaced apart from one another and have openings aligned with one another for receiving a ski. A motor vehicle is also provided having such an advantageous cargo space floor.
US08235261B1	Foldable coat hanger A foldable coat hanger, which is constructed to be easily folded and unfolded as desired, so that the volume thereof can be reduced as desired and the space-related problem occurring in the use of the conventional hangers can be solved. Further, the size of the coat hanger can be stepwisely adjusted between a plurality of size stages, so that the size of the coat hanger can be appropriately adjusted according to the size of a garment, thus efficiently fitting garments having different sizes and efficiently hanging and protecting the garments.
US08235260B2	Garment washing device for plus size brassieres A washing device for plus size bras includes a shell which consists of upper and lower shell portions. The upper and shell portions are curved inwardly and may have flat upper and lower surfaces, respectively, such that the height of the shell is less than the lateral dimension of the shell between opposite sides. A hinge permits opening of the upper shell portion with respect to the lower shell portion to insert a bra into the washing device, and a releasable latch mechanism securely holds the upper shell portion and a lower shell portion together during a washing cycle. Preferably, the height of the washing device is about one-half, or less, of the lateral dimension of the washing device, thereby permitting easy insertion into the washing machine.
US08235259B2	Integrated fitment for aseptic packaging The present invention provides a fitment, for use on a flexible container, comprising a spout member having a first end and a second end and defining a passageway between the two and a plug member which is sized to be received in the passageway. The plug member also has a leading end that lies in sealing engagement with the first end of the spout member when the plug member is received in the passageway.
US08235257B2	Emptying mechanism for food storage container A food storage container with emptying mechanism is described. The emptying mechanism includes a platform that may be raised within the container to advance food product toward the container opening. The platform is raised by actuation of a turn wheel at the bottom outer surface of the container. Existing containers may be retrofitted to incorporate the emptying mechanism.
US08235252B2	High-speed actuator for valves A high-speed actuator moves a valve stopper to a selected position to control material flow. The actuator includes a rod carrying first and second axially spaced solenoid armatures attached to the stopper. First and second solenoid coil surround and are spaced from the rod to bias the first solenoid armature along with the rod and valve stopper. A linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) responsive to the position of the second armature determines the instantaneous position of the valve stopper. A valve position control circuit receives a valve position set point from a user's input, and a valve position feedback signal from the LVDT. The valve position control circuit includes first and second solenoid coil drive signals that urge the first armature and stopper to the valve position set point. A signal generator circuit vibrates the valve about a set point to enhance material discharge.
US08235251B2	Multiphase acrylic adhesives The invention relates to cured (meth)acrylate based adhesive composition, comprising at least two co-continuous phases of interpenetrating networks and at least two types of polymeric inclusions, in which one of the co-continuous phases comprises a polymer or copolymer based on at least one acrylic or methacrylic acid monomer or a derivative thereof. These compositions exhibit better facture toughness, especially at low temperatures.
US08235249B2	Heat actuated puncturing mechanism for a compressed gas cartridge A carbon dioxide cartridge is triggered when a lance with a piercing tip punctures its burst disc. The cartridge has a cap that has an outlet and a passage for the lance and puncturing tip to travel. The lance is pushed into the burst disc when a heat expanding substance which is stored hermetically the cap in such a way that the only direction to expand is to displace and push the lance right into the burst disc. Once the burst disc is pierced, the cartridge empties its contents quickly out the outlet. In at least one embodiment the cartridge and the cap are attached by screw threads.
US08235246B2	Universal box top lid A universal box top lid is adapted to be attached to the opened top of a variety of different sizes of food packaging boxes. The lid is designed to fit over the opened box top with an opened bag containing the food product inside the box being held open by an apron formed on an inner wall of the lid. The lid is provided with a cap closure that can be opened when it is desired to dispense the food product contained in the packaging box and bag, and can be closed to preserve the food product.
US08235243B2	Tank for high pressure fluids The present invention is a tank suitable to contain high pressure fluids, especially for compressed natural gas used for automotive purposes. The tank has a discoid shape to be easily placed on board of vehicles. The tank comprises a sealed internal core and an external coating made through a twisted coats fiber wrapping of composite material with a very high mechanical tensile resistance. According to some executive variants, the tank internally comprises a reinforcing structure made up of a plurality of elements welded in contact with the internal surface of the core.
US08235241B2	Floating absorber assembly for reduced fuel slosh noise A liquid tank assembly for a motor vehicle includes a tank and an absorber assembly. The tank has an inner surface defining a cavity for receiving a liquid substance. The absorber assembly is disposed within the cavity for dampening liquid sloshing noises. The absorber assembly includes a plurality of connected dampener elements. End sections of the absorber assembly are attached to the inner surface of the tank. The absorber assembly is configured to float on a surface of the liquid when a volume of liquid within the tank is between a first critical volume and a second, lower critical volume. The absorber assembly is generally submerged when a volume of liquid within the tank is a generally greater than the first critical volume. The absorber assembly is generally suspended within the cavity when a volume of liquid within the tank is a generally lower than the second critical volume.
US08235237B1	Waste disposal device with self-closing lid Waste disposal device that receives a waste-containing member includes a container defining a waste-receiving compartment having an opening, a lid having a closed position covering the opening and an open position in which the opening is exposed, and a rotation mechanism arranged in the container to rotate the waste-containing member when present. The rotation mechanism is arranged to rotate the waste-containing member upon closure of the lid without manual handling of the lid. A foot pedal assembly includes a depressible foot pedal and a spring, and is arranged to cause both opening of the lid when the foot pedal is depressed and closure of the lid when the pressing force is removed. The spring is moved against its bias upon depression of the foot pedal and returns to its original state when the pressing force is removed to thereby cause closure of the lid and rotation of the waste-containing member.
US08235235B1	Limit switch cover with magnetic breakaway A breakaway-protective limit switch cover is provided that includes a main plate, a pair of support arms attached to the main plate, and a magnet attached to each support arm. The breakaway-protective-limit switch cover attaches, via the magnets, to a conveyor track of a power conveyor system and becomes dislodged upon impact from an external force strong enough to overcome the magnetic force of the magnets.
US08235233B2	Latch mechanism for a closure for a container A container for over-the-counter drugs or the like that includes a cylindrical plastic bottle with a closure. The closure including a cap and a ring that mates with the mouth of the bottle. The cap ring has a tongue that mates with a capture structure on the cap in a child resistant configuration. The tongue being lockable by a pad lock to block access by unwanted adults and teenagers. The tongue having a senior friendly configuration also.
US08235232B2	Cap and covered container Provided are a cap capable of being easily and reliably opened and unsealed not limited in design even if an inner cap with a small diameter is used for the cap, producing no refuse after the unsealing, and not unnecessarily large in size, and a container with the cap. When an over cap (3) is rotated in the opening direction, a pair of screw threads (10a, 10b) as opening means are advanced in the direction in which they are tightened together, and this cuts off an planned opening section (4) from the inner cap (2). Thus, the cap has a relatively simple structure and can be simply and reliably unsealed by small force. Further, it is enough if the screw threads (10a, 10b) can be formed in the region of the opening, so that the structure can be applied to a cap with an inner cap with a small diameter and the design of the cap (1) is not limited. Also, the planned opening section (4) is integrated with the over cap (3) after unsealing the inner cap (2), so that no refuse is produced after the unsealing, eliminating the need to clear it away from a table.
US08235230B2	Method for controlling the slewing movement of the rotary part of a tower crane A rotary part of a crane is associated with an electric slewing mechanism including at least one geared electric motor unit of which the electric motor is powered in such a way as to produce a slewing torque having a certain maximum value. When the crane is in use and for conditions such as windspeed greater than a given value, jib length greater than a given value and moment of the lifted load greater than a given value, the maximum value of a slewing torque produced by the electric motor is increased. The crane thus becomes easier to drive, particularly in the phases during which the jib is adopting a “windward trend”.
US08235226B2	Integrated shelf allocation management system Apparatuses for the efficient and safe organization of product on shelves. The backstop assemblies are capable of being utilized in a wide variety of shelving units. Because the backstop puller engages the front of the backstop, the backstop assemblies are able to be employed in shelves of various depths and allow for the customer to draw product toward the front of the shelving unit efficiently.
US08235221B2	Methods for vacuum filtration Liquid filter assemblies including an upper sample reservoir, a sample filter and a lower storage bottle are supported by a vacuum base. The base has a vacuum inlet port and, for connection to the liquid filter assembly, a vacuum outlet port. A vacuum is provided through the base to below the sample filter to draw sample liquid through the sample filter into the storage bottle. The base may include an auxiliary vacuum outlet port for connection with additional devices. The bases may be connected from one to another through auxiliary vacuum outlets and the vacuum inlets to make a chain of liquid filter assemblies supplied from one vacuum source. Alternatively, one base may include multiple vacuum outlet ports so that it may support and supply vacuum to a plurality of liquid filter assemblies.
US08235220B2	Separator and separator cartridge A separator includes: a channel having a first surface; a plurality of columnar members formed on the first surface and having a cross section in the shape of a crescent, the plurality of columnar members being arranged in a row direction along a longitudinal direction of the channel, and in a column direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the channel, the columnar members that belong to the same row from among the plurality of columnar members being disposed so that the crescents face the same direction in the column direction, the columnar members that belong to a single row being disposed so that the crescents face the opposite direction in the column direction with respect to the crescents of the columnar members that belong to the adjacent row; and a substance that specifically binds to a separation target, and is disposed on side surfaces of the plurality of columnar members.
US08235219B2	Method and device for separating or classifying material to be fed The device according to the invention for separating or classifying material to be fed into at least two different grain fractions comprises a screen device, which is formed by rotatable elements, particularly a roller table screen, wherein at least one finer grain fraction passes between the rotatable elements and means are provided for cooling the rotatable elements.
US08235217B2	Bulk container with cap and pallet base A bulk container comprises a one piece base, a cap and a peripheral side wall. The base includes a generally rectangular bottom wall, a plurality of longitudinal rails extending below the bottom wall, and a peripheral wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The peripheral wall defines an upwardly opening channel. The cap includes an inner wall connected to an outer wall defining a downwardly opening channel complimentary with the upwardly opening channel. The peripheral side wall is received in the upwardly opening channel and the downwardly opening channel to define a parallelepiped interior space.
US08235212B2	Mask transport system configured to transport a mask into and out of a lithographic apparatus A mask transport system is configured to transport a mask into and out of a lithographic apparatus. The mask transport system includes a first container configured to shield a top side and a bottom side of the mask. At least a portion of the container is at least partially translucent for radiation having a predetermined wavelength used to detect contamination on the top side or the bottom side of the mask when the mask is shielded by the first container. The mask transport system also includes a second container configured to enclose the first container. The second container includes a first part defining a first opening and an openable cover that covers the first opening. The cover is configured to open and release the first container within the lithographic apparatus or at an interface with the lithographic apparatus.
US08235211B2	Retainer for welding wire container, having fingers and half-moon shaped holding tabs A retainer for a welding wire container has a base element and at least one upper element which rests on the base element. The base element has a central opening for allowing the welding wire to pass through, and at least two guiding openings through which holding fingers extend. The holding fingers are part of the upper element and are made from a flexible material.
US08235209B2	Medical device packaging and methods for preparing and packaging medical devices Medical device packaging, medical device packaging assemblies, and methods for preparing and packaging medical devices. An example medical device packaging assembly may include a pouch having a pocket formed therein. A carrier tube may be disposed in the pocket. The carrier tube may have a plurality of apertures formed therein. A medical device may be disposed within the carrier tube.
US08235204B2	Lockable package with slide tray A lockable package includes an outer sleeve defined by connected first and second panels, the sleeve having at least one open end. An inner container is slidable within the sleeve, and having a first portion joined to a second portion, wherein at least one of a height and a width of the first portion is less than a corresponding height and width of the second portion. A difference between one of the height and the width of the first portion and the corresponding height and width of the second portion defines a ridge. A locking assembly is provided at the at least one open end of the sleeve and is configured to releasably engage the ridge, wherein the inner container is removable through the open end of the sleeve by disengaging the locking assembly from the ridge.
US08235201B2	Flight bar assembly, apparatus and methods for nestable collation of objects Apparatus, flight bar assemblies, and methods are disclosed for nesting objects into a substantially staggered arrangement. Such nesting may be done in a nesting zone of a machine, for example, just upstream of a shrink wrapping machine. The nested arrangement allows the grouping of nested objects to be shrink-wrapped without use of trays or cardboard blanks if desired. The flight bar assemblies may include movable spacers for orienting rows of objects before, during, and after nesting. Lane dividers may be provided having lengths corresponding to a contour of an outer guide and cam surface, cooperating with the lane dividers to selectively urging the rows of objects inward in an organized fashion to allow efficient and reliable nesting.
US08235198B2	Hydraulic clutch assembly for a motor vehicle driveline A hydraulic clutch assembly for a motor vehicle driveline is provided. The clutch assembly comprises an input member, and output member and a friction clutch pack operably disposed therebetween for controlling torque transfer. A first fluid circuit contains hydraulic based fluid at a first pressure and is in fluid communication with the friction clutch pack for lubrication thereof. A second fluid circuit is in fluid communication with the first fluid circuit for replenishing the second fluid circuit with the hydraulic based fluid at a second pressure that is less than the first pressure. The clutch assembly further comprises a motor and a gear train. A first piston is in fluid communication with the second fluid circuit for delivering the hydraulic based fluid thereto A second piston is translated by the hydraulic based fluid displaced by the first piston to actuate the friction clutch pack.
US08235188B2	Damping element The invention relates to a damping element for a vibration damper that works with hydraulic damping fluid. The fundamental structure of the damping element includes a one-piece base body configured as a circular disk, which has a plurality of first flow-through openings, each having an entry cross-section in a first face side of the base body, as well as a plurality of second flow-through openings, each having an entry cross-section in an opposite, second face side of the base body, as well as circular valve disks on both face sides of the base body, which rest against a support surface of the base body, disposed in the center, and at least partially close off exit cross-sections of the flow-through openings. The exit cross-sections are surrounded by control edges, which form contact surfaces for the valve disks and project beyond the support surface as well as the entry cross-sections. The height of the control edges increases with an increasing radial distance from the center point of the base body in the form of a circular disk. According to the invention, the flow-through openings have a flow channel section that is preferably cylindrical and opens into a larger exit cross-section bordered by the control edges.
US08235186B2	Hydraulic damper spool valve A hydraulic valve includes a main body, a valve body, a piston, a valve sleeve, a spool and a resilient energy storage member. The valve body and the piston are disposed within the main body. The valve body defines a first chamber, a second chamber, and a cylindrical passage connecting the first chamber and the second chamber. The valve sleeve is moveably disposed in the cylindrical passage. The spool is moveably disposed within the bore of the valve sleeve. The resilient energy storage member may be disposed between the valve sleeve and valve spool. The resilient energy storage member is compressed as pressure is induced in one of the first chamber or the second chamber such that the valve sleeve and the spool move relative to one another so that at least a portion of the shaped aperture is exposed to the first chamber or second chamber to allow a proportional amount of hydraulic fluid to flow between the first chamber and the second chamber.
US08235184B2	Disc brake device A disc brake apparatus that can keep a stable contact state between a torque transmitting part of a brake pad and a torque receiving part of a mounting, so as to reliably suppress a brake noise phenomenon. At the time of forward braking where a main body member of a brake pad is pressed against a disc rotor, the rotational moment acting on the main body member of the brake pad from the disc rotor is absorbed by the main body member rotating relative to a forward braking torque transmitting member about one pin joint, so as to be restrained from being transmitted to the forward braking torque transmitting member. As a result, the respective contact states between two torque transmitting protrusions formed in the forward braking torque transmitting member of the brake pad and torque receiving surfaces formed in a forward braking torque receiving part of a mounting are held stable.
US08235183B2	Ball ramp brake A ball ramp brake including a housing, a disc assembly within the housing, and an annular rotatable actuator to actuate the brake by compressing the disc assembly. The rotatable actuator includes a plurality of depressions oriented circumferentially therein which become progressively shallower in a first circumferential direction. A plurality of depressions are circumferentially oriented in a surface of the housing and become progressively shallower in a second circumferential direction. The depressions in the actuator and the depressions in the housing each have a first angle of depression that is steeper than a second angle of depression. A boot seal may be provided between the fluid chamber of an actuating cylinder and the inner area within the housing to prevent fluid leakage. In addition, a cooling chamber may be provided in the housing to improve the brakes efficiency.
US08235180B2	Elevator system with a brake control circuit using a controllable switch switched with short pulses An elevator system and a brake control circuit include a first switch that controls the electricity supply of the winding of the brake, which switch is connected in a controlled manner with the control of the electricity supply of the winding of the brake, and thus the braking function is controlled.
US08235177B2	Lubricant supply device, image forming apparatus, and pressing device A lubricant supply device includes a solid lubricant, a supply member contacting and rubbing the solid lubricant and thereby scraping a lubricant off the solid lubricant and supplying the lubricant to a lubricant supplying target, and a pressing mechanism pressing the solid lubricant against the supply member. The pressing mechanism includes a biasing device, and a plurality of pressing members receiving a biasing force of the biasing device and thereby pressing places of the solid lubricant at symmetrical positions with respect to a center of a contact part of the solid lubricant contacting the supply member, respectively.
US08235176B2	Lubrication and scavenge system A lubrication and scavenge system for a gas turbine, capable continued operation in nose-down or nose-up orientations, has a number of oil drainage passages to return oil to one or more collection chambers adjacent a rolling element bearing. A rotary impellor in the chamber forces the oil into a scavenge off-take passageway in the chamber wall leading to a scavenge pump. However, in some orientations windage effects in the chamber can return the oil to the drainage passage rather than permitting the impellor to centrifuge it into the off-take passageway. As a result oil starvation may occur. To avoid this and improve scavenging a shield is located between the drainage path and the off-take passageway adjacent to a face of the impellor. The shield may comprise an additional member, but preferably is formed integrally with a bearing race so as to ease assembly.
US08235173B2	Single waistband belt system convertible between a sit harness and quick release utility belt A belt system convertible into and out of a sit harness configuration for selective use as a harness or a utility belt features a pair of leg loops and a waistband equipped with a quick release buckle. Support straps projecting from the leg loops are arranged for releasable engagement to the waistband and releasable engagement to one another so that the releasable engagement to one another when also engaged to the waistband provides a second closure thereof so that the waistband remains closed by the connection between the support straps even if the quick release buckle on the waistband is inadvertently disengaged. Using only a single waistband, the belt system provides a quick release function when used only as a utility belt, yet avoids the hazard of having the waistband open by inadvertent release of the quick release waistband buckle during use as a harness.
US08235171B2	System and method for noise suppression Systems and methods for noise suppression are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an acoustic structure has a core that includes a plurality of cells. Each of the plurality of cells includes one or more engaging structures for positioning a septum relative to the cell. The acoustic structure further includes a plurality of septums positioned relative to the plurality of cells.
US08235164B2	Snowmobile A snowmobile includes steering handlebars; a steering column attached to the steering handlebars and extending directly downward or obliquely downward; a power steering device having a motor and attached to the steering column; a power transmission mechanism arranged to transmit at least the driving force of the motor; and a ski coupled to the power transmission mechanism to be turned by the power transmission mechanism. The power steering device includes a sensor arranged to detect the rotation of the steering column. The motor has a motor shaft tilted from both the fore and aft direction and the left and right direction of the vehicle.
US08235161B2	Multiple-position steering control device A steering system includes a steered tire and a steering control device that controls the steered tire from a first operating position. Further including a steering control mount that supports the steering control device and is configured to allow the steering control device to rotate to a second operating position opposite the first position. An interlock is operable to disable the steering control device as it rotates between the first and second operating positions. A method detecting a position of a steering control that is configured to provide a steering function of a vehicle in either of a first or a second operating position, where the first position is oriented opposite that of the second operating position. Further receiving an interlock signal and enabling the steering function and a traction function when the interlock signal indicates that the position of the steering control is in the first or second operator position and disabling when the steering control is not an operating position.
US08235156B2	Retrofitable ROPS reinforcement structure for cab raiser interface A reinforced cab riser adapter, which adapts to standard roll-over protection structure (ROPS) to a swing frame on a hydraulic excavator resulting in improved rollover load bearing capacity, is disclosed. This invention is also retrofit-able and can be universally adapted to a wide variety of swing frames without cutting or welding of the base machine. The present invention relates to safety features with respect to attaching a cab to a frame on load bearing vehicles.
US08235155B2	Radiator mounting arrangement on utility vehicle A radiator mounting arrangement on a utility vehicle with an injection molded top tank and bottom tank, the top tank having a plurality of integrally molded features extending upwardly therefrom. A wire form is attached to a frame member of the utility vehicle and engages the integrally molded features without fasteners.
US08235149B2	Diamond bit steel body cutter pocket protection A drill bit that includes a steel bit body having at least one blade thereon, at least one cutter pocket disposed on the at least one blade; at least one cutter disposed in the at least one cutter pocket; at least one recess formed in at least a portion of the surface of the at least one cutter pocket, wherein the recess is adjacent a leading face of the at least one blade; and an erosion resistant material in the at least one recess is disclosed.
US08235147B1	Apparatus and method for installing ground anchoring systems An apparatus and method for forming a borehole in an earthen formation includes a side cutting device comprised of a cam assembly that includes at least one groove therein for selective extension and retraction of a laterally extending cutting element. Rotation of the side cutting device in a first direction causes the cutting element to be in a first retracted position so that a borehole having a first diameter can be formed. Rotation of the side cutting device in a second direction causes the cutting element to be in a second extended position. Rotation and retraction of the side cutting device when the cutting element is in the second extended position allows the side cutting device to create a larger borehole diameter in a down hole location.
US08235145B2	Gauge pads, cutters, rotary components, and methods for directional drilling The present invention recites a method, system and apparatus, wherein said method, system and apparatus comprises a gauge pad for a rotary component received within a borehole, the gauge pad comprising an exterior surface dimensioned for rotation in close proximity to the borehole, a pocket extending through the exterior surface, the pocket in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source, and wherein the exterior surface is dimensioned such that when a pressurized fluid is discharged through the pocket, the velocity of the fluid through a gap between the exterior surface and borehole creates a pressure drop sufficient to pull the rotary component toward the gauge pad.
US08235141B2	Procedure and device for the optimal, utilization of carbon resources such as oil fields, oil shales, oil sands, coal, and CO2 A method and system are disclosed for recovering fossil fuel from a carbon deposit site, the method comprising (a) driving several boreholes through the earth's crust to depths below the surface at which supercritical conditions predominate, so that they are spaced from one another in a lower borehole region, and connected there to one another through to form a geo-heat exchanger resulting in creation of a supercritical geo-steam system; (b) injecting fluid into at least one of the boreholes, to convert the injected fluid into a supercritical fluid, and extracting the supercritical fluid through other of the boreholes; and (c) injecting the extracted supercritical fluid into the carbon deposit site to dissolve hydrocarbons contained therein, and transporting the supercritical fluid containing the hydrocarbons to the surface for recovery.
US08235140B2	Methods and apparatus for thermal drilling Methods and apparatus for spalling a material, for example to thermally drill a wellhole, are provided. Such methods may include directing a fluid having a temperature greater than about 500° C. above the ambient temperature of the material and less than about the temperature of the brittle-ductile transition temperature of the material to a target location on the surface of the material, wherein the fluid produces a heat flux of about 0.1 to about 50 MW/m2 at an interface between the fluid and the target location, and thereby creating spalls of the material.
US08235138B2	Power tool A power tool capable of performing vibration damping action in working operation, without an increase in size. The working tool includes a motor, a housing in which an internal mechanism driven by the motor is stored, a tool bit disposed on one end of the housing, a hand grip continuously connected to the other end of the housing, and a dynamic damper. The dynamic damper is disposed by utilizing a space between the housing and the internal mechanism so that the damping direction of the dynamic damper faces the longitudinal direction of the tool bit.
US08235136B2	Drilling and/or percussive hammer with no-load operation control A drilling and/or percussive hammer comprises a handle and a hammer housing, which can move relative to the handle and inside of which, among other things, a pneumatic spring percussive mechanism is housed. The pneumatic spring of the pneumatic spring percussive mechanism can be ventilated via a no-load operation duct that is opened and closed by a valve. The valve can be opened and closed according to a pressing force acting upon the handle. A delay device controls the valve during closing so that the valve reaches the position corresponding to the detected pressing force only with a time delay. This causes a smooth transition from the no-load operation to the percussive operation.
US08235134B2	Packing pressure adjustment assembly for a ground opener unit A packing pressure adjustment assembly for a ground opener unit of an agricultural implement includes a spring interconnected between a rotatable pressure adjustment arm and a trailing arm to which a packer wheel is rotatably mounted. The pressure adjustment arm is centered about an axle of the ground opener unit and is movable between a set of mounting positions that are defined by a set of teeth spaced and arced from one another along a frame portion of the ground opener unit. As the pressure adjustment arm is rotated, the amount of force exerted by the spring on the trailing arm is varied. The packing pressure adjustment assembly is relatively compact and is useful in providing high packing forces, such as a packing force in excess of 100 lbs.
US08235125B2	System and method for terminating tubing A technique is provided for terminating tubing. In the technique, a tubing termination assembly is used to terminate control line tubing from a downhole safety valve at a wellhead component. The tubing termination assembly utilizes a seal ring to form a seal around control line tubing extending from a port through a wellhead component. A seating surface is provided in the seal ring, rather than in the wellhead component, to which a seal member is abutted to form the seal with the control line tubing. The seal ring also comprises a threaded portion to enable a threaded member to urge the seal member against the seating surface.
US08235123B2	Separating device The invention comprises a sealing body (15) separating device) which can be used to separate fluids in risers used in offshore oil production from drilling vessels at the sea surface. The invention is characterized in that the sealing body (15) can be placed in position above the wellhead (13) using several appropriate methods and, in an especially preferred application, by utilizing an installation tool (27) which is not sealing against the inner wall of the riser and which contains a suitable positioning means (28), and that the body (15) which forms a seal against the inner wall of the riser separates fluids during the replacement of drilling fluid with water and of water with drilling fluid. The body (15) can be displaced using hydraulic force upwards in the longitudinal direction of the riser in that fluid is pumped at a relatively high pressure down the externally located smaller pipes (9, 10, 11) of the riser. The body can be used while the drilling vessel (1) heaves relative to the seabed (3), and it is independent of the drilling vessel's drawers for the drill string (21) while the fluid is being replaced.
US08235120B2	Mesophase fluids with extended chain surfactants for downhole treatments Mesophase fluids may be pre-formed or formed in situ and may be used downhole for various treatments including, but not limited to, cleaning up and removing non-polar materials from reservoir production zones, removing wellbore damage, releasing stuck pipe, components in spacers and pills and the like in oil and gas wells. These treatments involve solubilization of the non-polar material into the emulsion when the treatment fluid contacts non-polar materials. These mesophase fluids use extended chain surfactants having propoxylated/ethoxylated spacer arms. The extended chain surfactants are intramolecular mixtures containing hydrophilic and lipophilic portions. They attain high solubilization in the mesophase fluids (e.g. single phase microemulsions), are in some instances insensitive to temperature and are useful for a wide variety of oil types.
US08235119B2	Drilling fluid and method for reducing lost circulation Lost circulation of drilling fluid is one of the most serious and expensive problems facing the drilling industry. The present invention relates to an improved drilling fluid for reducing or preventing lost circulation to an underground formation surrounding a well bore in the process of drilling a well. The drilling fluid comprises a base fluid and wax or waxy substance as a primary seepage loss agent. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the seepage loss agent does not include particles having a blend of natural wax and synthetic wax together in a single particle. The invention also provides a method of reducing or preventing lost circulation to an underground formation surrounding a well bore in the process of drilling a well using the drilling fluid of the invention, wherein the primary seepage loss agent is added to the drilling fluid, either before or during drilling, and the drilling fluid is pumped down hole during drilling.
US08235112B2	Gas flow system A gas flow system for removing a liquid from a well bore and allowing for gas production is provided. The gas flow system comprises a casing in the well bore for allowing flow of the liquid and gas; a tubing string in the casing for allowing flow of the liquid and gas; pressure measurement devices for use in determining a rate of liquid influx into the well bore; a casing control valve moveable between various positions ranging from fully open to fully closed for controlling flow through the casing; a tubing control valve moveable between various positions ranging from fully open to fully closed for controlling flow through the tubing; and flow measurement devices for determining the rate of flow through the tubing and the total rate of flow. The system is switchable between a current production phase and an alternate production phase based on the determined rate of liquid influx, a tubing critical velocity and a gas flow rate through the tubing, wherein switching from a current production phase to an alternate production phase results in the either or both of a decrease in liquid build-up in the well bore and an increase in gas production rate and wherein the current production phase differs from the alternate production phase.
US08235107B2	Hydraulic oil well pumping apparatus A hydraulic oil well pumping arrangement employs a compensating type hydraulic pump, a directional valving arrangement and a proportioning valving arrangement. When the directional valve is energized, oil is directed to the rod end of the hydraulic cylinder. The rod or piston part of the hydraulic cylinder will then elevate until a first limit switch is actuated which then will de-energize the directional valve and send a current signal to the proportional valve. This current signal to the proportional valve forces it to open to a point at which the cylinder rod would extend at the desired velocity until it reaches a second limit switch. The second limit switch is near the bottom (for example, 1 foot, or 0.30 meters) of travel of the rod or piston. The current signal to the proportional valve is then decreased, creating a choking arrangement that forces the cylinder rod to decelerate. The cylinder rod then reaches another limit switch. Upon reaching the third limit switch, the signal is removed from the proportional valve so that it closes. This halts a draining of fluid from the hydraulic cylinder. At the same time, a voltage signal is sent to the directional valve opening it so that pump flow again travels from the pump to the hydraulic cylinder and once again elevates the rod and the connected pumping string or sucker rod.
US08235104B1	Apparatus for pipe tong and spinner deployment An apparatus for connecting or disconnecting a threaded connection of a first tubular member and a second tubular member at a wellhead has a frame movable between a first position adjacent the wellhead and a second position away from the wellhead, a first gripping member connected to the frame and extending outwardly therefrom so as to apply a torque to the first tubular, and a second gripping member movably connected to the frame so as to be movable between a first position away from the wellhead and a second position at the wellhead. The second gripping member is suitable for applying an opposing torque to the second tubular.
US08235101B2	Parallel flow heat exchanger for heat pump applications A parallel flow heat exchanger system (10, 50, 100, 200) for heat pump applications in which single and multiple paths of variable length are established via flow control systems which also allow for refrigerant flow reversal within the parallel flow heat exchanger system (10, 50, 100, 200), while switching between cooling and heating modes of operation. Examples of flow control devices are an expansion device (80) and various check valves (70, 72, 74, 76). The parallel flow heat exchanger system may have converging or diverging flow circuits and may constitute a single-pass or a multi-pass evaporator together with and a multi-pass condenser.
US08235095B2	Heat dissipation device A heat dissipation device includes a heat sink, a fan mounted on a side of the heat sink, and an engaging portion pivotally engaging with the heat sink and connecting the fan and the heat sink. The fan includes a bracket. A mounting plate with a mounting hole is formed by the bracket. The engaging portion includes a pivot portion pivotally engaging with the heat sink and a pressing portion extending from the pivot portion. A protruded portion extends downwardly from a bottom surface of the pressing portion. The pressing portion presses the mounting portion of the bracket of the fan and the protruded portion engages in the mounting hole of the mounting portion.
US08235086B2	System, method and apparatus for area screen coverage A multi-section screen system includes a first of the flexible sheets of screen material that has zipper teeth along at least one side edge and a neighboring second flexible sheet of screen material that has mating zipper teeth along an abutting side edge. Mechanisms retract and deploy each of the flexible sheets in unison. A fastener is fixedly disposed between each two of the mechanisms. The fasteners automatically join the zipper teeth with the mating zipper teeth as the mechanisms deploy the flexible sheets and the fasteners automatically disengaging the zipper teeth from the mating zipper teeth as the mechanisms retract the flexible sheets.
US08235082B2	Pneumatic tire A pneumatic tire including bead apex rubbers 8 having a rubber hardness Hs1 of 80 to 95 and extending radially outward from bead cores 5, and clinch rubbers 9 having a rubber hardness Hs2 of 65 to 85 lower than the rubber hardness Hs1 and forming outer surfaces of bead portions. A carcass 6 is formed of an inner carcass ply 6A comprising a body portion 11 extending between bead cores 5, 5 and turnup portions 12 which are continuous with the body portion 11 and are turned up around the bead cores 5, and an outer carcass ply 6B comprising a body portion 13 which extends along the outer surface of the body portion 11, and the radially inner ends of which are sandwiched between the body portion 11 and the bead apex rubbers 8 to terminate there. The turnup height Lc of the turnup portion 12 from the bead base line BL is 60% or less of the tire section height L, and the height Ld of inner ends of the body portion 13 is 60% or less of the height L1 of the bead apex rubber 8.
US08235081B2	In-line pumping assembly for self-inflating tire A tire for a self-inflating tire system includes a tire carcass having an annular air tube-receiving groove formed within a tire carcass wall and a pump assembly within the groove. The pump assembly includes an air tube having an axial air passageway; an inlet device positioned along the air tube, the inlet having a tubular inlet body having an internal air passageway aligned with the air tube and having at least one inlet opening extending through the inlet body for admitting air into the tubular inlet body. The inlet device further includes an air filtering sleeve at least partially surrounding the inlet opening of the inlet device, the sleeve having a tubular sleeve body at least partially surrounding and in co-axial relationship the tubular inlet body. The pump assembly further includes an outlet device positioned in-line along the air tube, the outlet device having a tubular outlet body and an axial passageway in-line with the air tube and having at least one outlet passage tube from the outlet device through the carcass wall to the tire cavity.
US08235078B2	Filler tube for a tank A filler tube for a tank made of plastic for preventing an incorrect filling of the tank is provided with a permanent magnet, which is accommodated in a liquid-tight manner, and with a plastic holder for holding the permanent magnet. The filler tube of the aforementioned type for a tank made of plastic, which can be manufactured more easily, has fewer components and which can be mounted more easily. To this end, the filler tube is made of plastic and the plastic holder, which holds the permanent magnet, is directly connected in a liquid-tight manner to the filler tube.
US08235071B2	Microfluidic bubble logic devices and methods A method for implementing a logic operation employs an all fluid-based no-moving part micro-mechanical logic family of microfluidic bubble logic devices that are constructed from complex sequences of microfluidic channels, microfluidic bubble modulators for programming the devices, and microfluidic droplet/bubble memory elements for chemical storage and retrieval. The input is a sequence of bubbles/droplets encoding information, with the output being another sequence of bubbles/droplets. For performing a set of reactions/tasks, the modulators program the device by producing a precisely timed sequence of bubbles/droplets, resulting in a cascade of logic operations within the microfluidic channel sequence, utilizing the generated bubbles as a control. The devices are based on the principle of minimum energy interfaces formed between the two fluid phases enclosed inside precise channel geometries. Various devices, including logic gates, non-volatile bistable memory, shift registers, multiplexers, and ring oscillators have been designed and fabricated.
US08235070B2	Two position three way valve A valve is provided including a first valve member and a second valve member. The first valve member includes a first step and a first orifice adjacent the first step. The second valve member includes a second step and a second orifice adjacent the second step. The second valve member is movable relative to the first valve member between an open position, in which the first orifice is fluidly connected the second orifice, and a closed position, in which the first orifice is substantially fluidly disconnected from the second orifice. The first and second steps are fluidly connected to the second orifice and substantially fluidly disconnected from the first orifice when the second valve member is in the closed position, and the first and second steps are fluidly connected to the first and second orifices when the second valve member is in the open position.
US08235068B2	Substrate processing systems and related methods A system for processing one or more substrates according to the present invention includes a diversion valve that can deliver two or more process fluids to a dispensing device through a common line/pipe. The present invention also includes related methods.
US08235065B2	Control valve having live loaded packing follower with leak-off and independent secondary seal A control valve includes a valve body, a valve stem, and a control element. The valve body receives the stem and includes a packing box housing a packing set. A packing follower includes a bore sized to receive the stem and includes an upper portion, a lower portion, and a bearing surface, the lower portion sized to extend into the valve bonnet to engage the packing set to apply a first compressive force to the packing set, the upper portion including threads and having an upper counterbore housing a secondary seal ring. A nut operatively engages the threads of the upper portion of the packing follower, the nut positioned to apply a second compressive force to the secondary seal ring, and a spring is positioned between the packing flange and the bearing surface of the packing follower, wherein the first compressive force is independent of the second compressive force.
US08235064B2	Single coil redundant valve A single magnetic coil floating plunger redundant gas valves is disclosed. In an illustrative embodiment, the valve may include a first plunger tube, a second plunger tube spaced a distance from the first plunger tube, a magnetic coil disposed about at least part of the first plunger tube, a first plunger disposed within the first plunger tube, and a second plunger disposed within the second plunger tube. The first and second plungers may be operatively coupled to first and second valve members. Activation of the magnetic coil may result in the first and second plungers being suspended in the plunger tubes without a hard mechanical plunger stop to selectively open corresponding valves or other actuatable components, as desired.
US08235058B1	Foot callous removal device The foot callous removal device has a handle, a cylindrical extension affixed downwardly to the handle, a shoe having a sole, a vamp, and a toe cap connected to the vamp and the sole, an abrasive disposed within the toe cap, a notched receiver disposed laterally and rearwardly within the sole, a collar, the cylindrical extension downwardly affixed within the collar, a lateral projection disposed radialy outward on the collar, a flared end disposed outwardly on the lateral projection, whereby the collar is affixed within the notched receiver of the sole, and the cylindrical extension and handle are substantially perpendicular to the shoe sole.
US08235057B2	Smoking article with open ended filter and restrictor A smoking article includes a tobacco rod adapted to produce mainstream smoke, and a filter having an upstream end and a downstream end, wherein the filter is arranged to receive mainstream smoke at the upstream end. The filter includes a tubular segment open at the downstream end thereof and a flow restrictor contained within the tubular segment. The filter is attached to the tobacco rod with tipping paper and includes an air-admissible ventilating zone at a location between the upstream end and the downstream end of the filter.
US08235056B2	Smoking article with concentric hollow core in tobacco rod and capsule containing flavorant and aerosol forming agents in the filter system A smoking article having a cylinder of smoking material and a central tube within the cylinder of the smoking material wherein heat is convectively transferred with smoke from a lit end of the cylinder of smoking material through the central tube to a mouth end of the cylinder of smoking material in each puff. A filter system is attached to the cylinder of smoking material, and includes a plurality of segments, wherein at least one of the plurality of segments contains flavorant and aerosol forming agents encapsulated in at least one breakable capsule.
US08235053B2	Implantable punctal plug A punctal plug is disclosed, wherein the punctal plug includes a body portion and a retaining portion. The body portion is defined by an open distal end, an open proximal end and a wall portion. The wall portion further includes at least one window extending therethrough. The retaining flange is configured to have an outer periphery that is larger than the outer periphery of the body portion. A method of delivering a therapeutic agent to a patient using a punctal plug is also disclosed.
US08235050B2	Apparatus and method for securing uvula A method and apparatus for securing a uvula to a soft palate. The uvula may be attached to either the nasopharyngeal side or the oral side of the soft palate with a uvula securement device. The uvula may be secured to the nasopharyngeal side of the soft palate with a suture.
US08235048B2	Fallopian tube occlusion device A device for occluding the fallopian tube having a wire composed of a shape memory material and an outer material encapsulating at least a portion of the wire. The device has a first elongated configuration for delivery and a second configuration for placement. In the second configuration, the wire moves toward its shape memory position and has a U-shape defined by a curved portion and first and second leg portions extending from the curved portion, the first and second leg portions extending downwardly from the curved portion and laterally outwardly.
US08235045B2	Forehead and nose bridge pad for CPAP interface The invention is a method for padding CPAP face and full face masks forehead and nose bridge area to prevent skin irritation, discomfort, indentions, allergies and ulcers. The pad is attached to the forehead part of the CPAP face mask by way of pockets sewn into the body of the pad. The pad protects the forehead area of the wearer as well as the nose bridge by way of a flap of material that fits between the seal of the mask and the wearer's nose bridge area distributing the pressure from the mask seal.Persons with sleep apnea rely on CPAP therapy to prevent the obstruction in order to continue to breathe while sleeping. The CPAP masks appear medical and strange, especially to a new user of the device. By making the CPAP mask more comfortable with soft padding and also preventing marks and sores, it is more likely that the person will continue their therapy and improve their health. The invention is designed to be colorful, soft and comforting to help people with sleep apnea continue to get the necessary therapy.
US08235044B2	Inhaler valve Rotary metering valve (200) with a valve inlet (260), a valve outlet (270) and a rotary valve member (280) for transferring a metered dose of aerosol formulation from the inlet to the outlet, wherein the rotary valve member is provided with an inlet port (290) and an outlet port (300), both in communication with a metering conduit (310) in the rotary valve member, the rotary valve member in sequence being rotatable between at least three positions: inlet position where the inlet port is in communication with the valve inlet and aerosol formulation enters the metering conduit, metering position where both ports are closed preserving a metered volume of aerosol formulation in the metering conduit, outlet position where the outlet port is in communication with the valve outlet and the metered dose of aerosol formulation is dispensed from the valve.
US08235036B2	Portable universal inhaler system A portable universal inhaler system formed from an outer part and an inner part slidably received in the outer part. The inner part defines a compartment for receiving a medication canister and includes a universal connector for making a fluid dispensing connection to a variety of commercially available canisters. The inner and outer parts, when assembled, together form a housing that defines a chamber of sufficient volume to house a metered dose of medication. A mouthpiece or mouthpiece attachment location is provided in fluid communication with the chamber for permitting inhalation of medication from the chamber. The structure of the device makes it compact and portable, in the closed position, allows for storage of a medication canister in operative engagement with the device, and provides a convenient way to dispense medication, using a medication canister and a chamber, for inhalation by a user.
US08235034B1	Systems moving air through a conduit within a solar heat collector having overtemperature protection A system including a solar heat collector and a heat receiving structure has a supply conduit extending through an airspace within the solar heat collector, to the heat receiving structure, and into the heat receiving structure. A temperature sensor within the airspace of the solar heat collector measures a temperature within the airspace of the solar heat collector and turns an air pump on to move air through the supply conduit it this temperature is too high. This air may be exhausted through a bypass valve instead of being pumped into the heat receiving structure. The heat receiving structure may include a pool with water heated by bubbles of hot air from the supply conduit.
US08235022B2	Oil supply system for internal combustion engine A lubricating oil supply system for internal combustion engine includes an oil reservoir and oil pump connected with a lubrication distribution network including a pressure controller which selectively controls the pressure within the distribution network to at least one pressure value that is less than the maximum pressure produced by a pressure relief valve associated with the oil pump.
US08235021B2	Device for supplying an internal combustion engine A device for supplying an internal combustion engine (1), comprising a carburettor (72) and an air filter (71) installed on an air intake line (70), through which the air filtered by the filter (71) is conveyed into the carburettor (72), and an anti-backflow element (8) located in series on the air intake line (70) between the carburettor (72) and the air filter (71), in which the anti-backflow element (8) exhibits an external casing (80) comprising a perimetral band (81) including at least a portion substantially circular in development closed by two side walls (82, 83), such as to internally define at least a compartment (84) in communication with the carburettor (72) through a duct (85) opening in the perimetral band (81) and developing tangentially relative to the circularly developing portion, the compartment (84) also in communication with the air filter (71) through a first duct (86) opening in one of the side walls (82, 83).
US08235019B2	Engine having concentric camshaft with differential valve lift A camshaft assembly may include a first shaft, a second shaft, a first lobe and a second lobe. The second shaft may be coaxial with and rotatable relative to the first shaft. The first lobe may be fixed for rotation with the first shaft and adapted to open a first valve in communication with an engine combustion chamber. The first lobe may define a first valve opening region having a first angular extent. The second lobe may be fixed for rotation with the second shaft and adapted to open a second valve in communication with the engine combustion chamber. The second lobe may define a second valve opening region having a second angular extent greater than the first angular extent.
US08235018B2	Tappet A tappet (1), either for a high-pressure fuel pump or for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, with a housing (2) whose driven side (3) used for a contact of a tappet-following part forms a contact on a bottom side (4) of a bridge part (6) projecting through an inner casing (5) of the housing (2). An anti-rotation locking device (10) projects past the outer casing (8) of the housing with a first cylinder section (9) and sits in a window (7) of the housing (2), with this anti-rotation locking device (10) being provided as a cylindrical element, and tab-like projections (13) project from peripheral walls (11) of the window (7) and the anti-rotation locking device (10), standing “loose” in the window (7), snaps behind these projections. A second cylinder section (14) of the anti-rotation locking device extends behind the inner casing (5) of the housing (2), and the bridge part (6), extending on an axial section of the anti-rotation locking device (10), has in its peripheral section a recess (15) in its outer surface (16), with the second cylinder section (14) of the anti-rotation locking device (10) being supported against this recess.
US08235015B2	Internal combustion engine with variable valve gear Each cylinder is provided with a first intake valve and a second intake valve, and a first intake cam for driving the first intake valve and a second intake cam for driving the second intake valve are coaxially pivotally supported on an intake camshaft. A first cam phase change mechanism which varies respective phases of the first and second intake cams relative to a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine is combined with a second cam phase change mechanism which varies a phase of the second intake cam relative to the first intake cam. The second cam phase change mechanism is set to have a variable-phase angular range wider than that of the first cam phase change mechanism.
US08235012B2	Method for controlling combustion mode transitions in an internal combustion engine An engine is transitioned from a first combustion mode to a second combustion mode. Phase and lift of the intake and exhaust valves are sequentially adjusted corresponding to intake air cylinder volume and residual gas cylinder volume corresponding to the first and second combustion modes.
US08235005B2	Small animal treat dispenser A treat dispenser for a pet animal enclosure, the treat dispenser allowing a user to selectively release a treat into the enclosure without having to open the enclosure. The treat dispenser may include a top with an opening into which a user may place a treat for the pet animal. The treat dispenser may include a user actuated mechanism to release a treat into a tube extending from the top to a bottom, the bottom including an opening to deliver the treat to the pet animal within the enclosure.
US08235003B2	Methods and apparatus for identifying live eggs Egg candling methods and apparatus are provided wherein black rot eggs can be identified and removed. A method of identifying live eggs includes illuminating eggs in a carrier with light from a light source; receiving light passing through each egg at a light detector; generating an output signal that corresponds to light received at a light detector for each respective egg; analyzing the output signal for each egg to determine opacity of each egg; removing eggs having an opacity less than a first opacity value; and removing eggs having an opacity greater than a second opacity value that is different from the first opacity value.
US08235000B2	Modular paint line and method of operation therefor A paint line includes a plurality of modular manufacturing stations positioned in series and defining a forward transport direction. Each modular manufacturing station includes an article transportation device for moving at least one carrier through the modular manufacturing station. At least one of the modular manufacturing stations includes a piece of paint application equipment. A control system is in communication with each article transportation device and configured to independently move the carrier of each modular manufacturing station according to a unique operation pattern. The control system is also configured to index the carrier of each modular manufacturing station as the carrier traverses to a contiguous modular manufacturing station.
US08234996B2	Apparatus and method for a sort station communication system The sort station system includes at least one outer support member and an elongated inner member. The at least one outer support member defines a channel along a first longitudinal axis thereof, and the elongated inner member is slideably disposed within the at least one outer support member such that: (A) a first status is indicated by the at least one outer support member being disposed at a first position relative to an end of the channel and (B) a second status is indicated by the end of the elongated inner member being disposed at a second position relative to the end of the channel. The first position and the second position are spaced apart axially from each other.
US08234995B2	Goal to ground monitor A goal to ground indicator device indicates a ready and/or upset condition of a ground supported goal such as a soccer goal that has at least one bar that lies in contact with the ground. An indicator arm is movable relative to the contact arm between a ready position and an upset position. A contact arm cooperates with the indicator arm. A biasing element biases the indicator arm to the upset position. When the bar of the goal is no longer in contact with the ground the indicator arm moves from the ready position to the upset position.
US08234992B1	Launch and recovery system A system for facilitating launch and recovery of a multiplicity of different surface and subsurface craft from a host ship includes a notched stern assembly configured to engage an outer plat that is moveable in and out of the notch to provide a ramp for receiving a surface craft at a location spaced a distance behind the ship. The outer plat may decouple from the stern assembly. The outer plat and craft are drawn up into the notched stern assembly via a roller-guideway arrangement. An inner plat may also be provided for engaging subsurface craft. The inner plat may be separable from the outer plat, or may be connected to the outer plat. The inner plat may be independently powered to engage remote craft. Remote refueling, rearming and data downloading operations may be performed. The inner plat may nest with the outer plat within notched stern assembly when idle.
US08234991B2	Sail propulsion system A sail propulsion system for boats and the like comprises at least one mast (A) and a jib (F) controlled by sheets and secured to the head of the mast (A), as well as at least two mainsails (RS, RD) rove on two shrouds (S; SR) located one to the right and one to the left of the mast (A) and arranged each on a boom (B) mounted on one of said shrouds (S; SR). This sail system has a greater sail surface with respect to the conventional set of sails consisting of a single mainsail and the relevant jib, whereby with the same wind the sail thrust is greater, moreover the jib (F) and the leeward mainsail meet the wind like a single sail whose efficiency is greater than the efficiency of the two separate sails present in conventional equipments, and finally when sailing before the wind the sail surface has its center of thrust located on the boat axis so as to make the sailing more stable and less prone to rightward or leftward deviations of the bow, thus increasing safety and allowing to dispense with the use of special sails when sailing before the wind, such as the gennaker or the spinnaker.
US08234990B2	Methods for improving conformability of non-crimp fabric and contoured composite components made using such methods Methods for making a self-conforming non-crimp fabric involving tailoring at least a first parameter to anchor the fabric and at least a second parameter to provide conformability of the fabric, the first and second parameters selected from stitch type, stitch spacing, stitch density, stitch material, stitch weight, stitch tension, and combinations of the same.
US08234988B2	Seed dispenser control Control apparatus for a pneumatic seed meter having a seed disc that uses a pneumatic pressure differential to hold and release seed on a rotating disc. The control apparatus is controlled to disrupt the pressure differential in an area of the rotating disc to selectively disrupt planting of seed by the seed meter to, for example, reduce overlap planting.
US08234986B2	Method and apparatus for turbulent combustion of fly ash An apparatus for processing fly ash comprising a heated refractory-lined vessel having a series of spaced angled rows of swirl-inducing nozzles which cause cyclonic and/or turbulent air flow of the fly ash when introduced in the vessel, thus increasing the residence time of airborne particles. Also disclosed is a method of fly ash beneficiation using the apparatus.
US08234977B2	Apparatus for aiding the containment and transport of various articles A materials handling apparatus for aiding in loading and transporting various materials has three major components, a wheeled cart, a truncated conical cylinder which is carried by the cart and a compaction lid which provide the apparatus with the capability of being operated in three different modes. In the first mode, a conventional trash bag is placed inside the cylinder and the lid can be placed atop the cylinder. In this mode, the apparatus operates as a conventional trash can. In a second mode, the cylinder in placed within a trash bag to protect it from being damaged by materials such as tree and shrub clippings or other materials which could tear the bag. In the third mode no trash bag is used, the materials are loaded into the cylinder, and when loading is complete, the cylinder is lifted off of the materials for direct deposit into a disposal site.
US08234976B2	Device and method for compressing wood A device for compressing wood is formed as a container (10) with a bottom plate (12) and a longitudinal side plate (14). A first compression arrangement (40) in the form of a compression plate (48) attached to a number of moving devices (42) which are rotatable about a spindle (44) in the longitudinal side plate (14) carries out compression of the wood in a first direction. A second compression arrangement (30) in the form of a compression plate (38) attached to a number of moving devices (32) which are rotatable about a spindle (34) in the bottom plate (12), carries out compression of the wood in a second direction. The device (1) further includes a bundling arrangement (60) comprising a stay (62) with a retainer body (67) for securing a strap from a strap drive device (64) around the compressed wood.
US08234975B2	Hulling device A hulling device includes a cap, a pushing member, a spring between the cap and pushing member, and at least one nipper having two nipping members coupled to the pushing member and extending toward the cap. The nipping members are mutually shaped with the cap and slide contiguous respective contact regions of the cap to separate tips of the nipping members upon actuation of the pushing member. The separated tips can be inserted in a food item, such as a strawberry, and twisted and pulled to hull the food item. The user can release the pushing member when the tips are in the food item to improve gripping and severing the hull. The hulling device can also include a main body housing at least a portion of the pushing member, cap, spring, and first and second nippers, the main body being coupled to the cap, the pushing member, or both.
US08234974B2	Pomegranate juice extractor A manually actuated juicing tool used to insert directly into a pomegranate fruit cut horizontally in half. Once cut horizontally, the pomegranate reveals sections of arils separated by membranes. The tool has a rigid horizontal handle that the user grasps with one hand. A round mid-shaft projects down from the handle a distance sufficient to allow the tool to be projected down to the base of the husk of the fruit while leaving the handle above the husk. At the base of the mid-shaft are two or more tines projected outwardly and slightly downwardly. The tine at its outward end is convex to match the symmetry of the husk of the fruit. On the bottom of the tine are tiny cutting spikes used to pierce the arils. The tine also contains small vertical extrusion holes to allow juice to flow above the tine while leaving all solids beneath.
US08234970B2	Gasket, cover with gasket, and pneumatic cylinder with cover and gasket A gasket includes a damping buffer for a piston that can be charged with a pressure medium and that can be moved back and forth axially in a cylinder pipe and includes at least one static seal for sealing the cylinder pipe vis-à-vis a cover connected to the face of the cylinder pipe and a dynamic seal having at least one dynamically loaded sealing lip that, during the proper use of the gasket, can be laid against the surface to be sealed of a damping journal that is connected to and axially movable back and forth with the piston and that has at least one flow-guiding connection opening that connects the axial faces of the gasket.
US08234961B2	Saw band and method for the production of same A saw band of steel for a band saw machine with a band back (Br) and with a tooth row arranged thereon having several teeth (20), wherein the initial tooth form (10) is triangular with a tooth base with tooth width (b) and with the tooth tip (1) with a first tooth height (h1), such that the tooth tip (1) does not project beyond tooth width (b) in the band running direction (L), wherein the lateral side of the triangle located in front in the running direction (L) forms the rake face (2) and the rear lateral side forms the clearance face (3) of the tooth (10, 20). The tooth tip (1) of the triangle is specifically removed for the development of a rounded-off tooth crest (4) with a reduced second tooth height (h2), wherein at least in the proximity of the tooth crest (4) a hard material coating covers at least partially the cutting face formed of the tooth crest (4), the rake face (2) and the clearance face (3).
US08234960B2	Electrical Component, Manufacturing System and Method Disclosed herein is an electrical component comprising a segment having a diameter in the range of about 1 micrometers to about 10 cm, the segment comprising a plurality of non-metallic, resistive fibers in a non-metallic binder. The segment is precisely trimmed to impart to the segment an electrical resistance within 1% of the desired resistance value. A manufacturing system and methods of manufacturing components having precise specifications also are disclosed.
US08234956B2	Piston actuated split input transmission synchronizer A piston actuated synchronizer system for a split torque transmission where the piston is attached directly to the synchronizer shift collar on the synchronizer centerline to provide the required actuation in a small volume of space and resolve fork and rod deflection issues seen on other synchronizers that use such a system. The piston is pressure applied and spring released. This design also uses a displacement sensor to monitor synchronizer engagement.
US08234955B2	Power transfer unit with disconnecting input shaft A power transfer unit assembly for a vehicle is provided comprising a first input shaft providing rotational drive. A second input shaft is in communication with a gear train assembly which is in communication with a propshaft. A selective engagement element is movable between an engagement position wherein the second input shaft is placed in rotational communication with the first input shaft and a disengagement position wherein the second input shaft is disengaged from the first input shaft. An actuator assembly moves the selective engagement element into the engagement position for all wheel drive mode and into the disengagement position for two wheel drive mode.
US08234950B1	Homogeneous and single-side-operational connector mechanism for self-reconfigurable, self-assembly and self-healing systems Designs of single-end-operative reconfigurable genderless connectors that include a base, a plurality of movable jaws that are formed on the base and can engage to the jaws of another connector, and an actuator that is mounted on the base and can engage and move the jaws of the reconfigurable connector to connect the reconfigurable connector with another connector.
US08234947B2	Transmission arrangement having axial securing element The invention relates to a transmission arrangement, particularly for adjusting devices in motor vehicles, comprising a gear wheel, which is secured against axial displacement on an axis or a shaft by means of securing element. According to the invention, the axis or the shaft is made of plastic. The securing elements comprise at least a molded part, which has at least one axial stop for the direct or indirect support of the gear wheel, and the molded part is secured by means of a screw against axial displacement on the axis or the shaft.
US08234946B2	Hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission A hydraulic control system for a dual clutch transmission includes a plurality of solenoids and valves in fluid communication with a plurality of clutch actuators and with a plurality of synchronizer actuators. The clutch actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of torque transmitting devices and the synchronizer actuators are operable to actuate a plurality of synchronizer assemblies. Selective activation of combinations of the solenoids allows for a pressurized fluid to flow through the valves to activate at least one of the clutch actuators and synchronizer actuators in order to shift the transmission into a desired gear ratio. A range selection valve is operable to place the transmission in Park and out-of-Park modes of operation.
US08234945B2	Transmission A transmission is provided in which gear trains for multiple shift stages are provided between a countershaft and a first main shaft and second main shaft running coaxially and relatively rotatably through the first main shaft so that the gear trains can be alternatively established, wherein a plurality of odd number stage gear trains (G1, G3, G5) are provided between the second main shaft (27) and the countershaft (28) so that the first speed gear train (G1) is disposed on the opposite side to the first and second clutches (37, 38), an end part of the second main shaft (27) on the first speed gear train (G1) side is rotatably supported on an engine main body via a main shaft side ball bearing (31) having a larger diameter than an outer diameter of a first speed drive gear (89) provided integrally with the second main shaft (27), and an outer race (31a) of the main shaft side ball bearing (31) is fixed to the engine main body via a fixing plate (95) engaging with an outer peripheral part of the outer race (31a). This enables the transmission to be made compact in a direction along the axis of the first and second main shafts.
US08234941B2	Specimen analyzing apparatus and specimen analyzing method A specimen analyzing apparatus comprising: a detector for detecting component information regarding a component in a specimen contained in each of analyzing containers, the analyzing containers comprising first and second analyzing containers; an analyzing part for analyzing the component information detected by the detector; a transporting device for transporting specimen containers each containing a specimen, the specimen containers comprising first and second specimen containers; an operation mode selector for selecting one of a first operation mode and a second operation mode; a first supplying device for supplying the specimen of a first amount; a second supplying device for supplying the specimen of a second amount grater than the first amount; and a supply controller for controlling the first and second supplying devices in accordance with an operation mode selected by the operation mode selector, is disclosed. A specimen analyzing method is also disclosed.
US08234938B2	Arrangement and method for the automatic sampling in a storage tank system interconnected to a pipe system for supplying cleaning fluids The invention pertains to an arrangement and a method for the automatic sampling in a storage tank system (1) interconnected to a pipe system (4) for supplying cleaning fluids, particularly in processing systems that are subject to high microbiological quality requirements in the food and beverage industry, particularly in breweries, with a storage tank system (1) that consists of several tanks and a sampling device (5) that is respectively associated with all tanks via permanent pipework. The invention ensures that the entire sampling system including all valves integrated therein can be cleaned and sterilized in a flow-through fashion regardless of the respective content of the tanks. Furthermore, the sampling should take place without a loss of the fluid to be sampled. This is procedurally achieved in that a volume flow Q(P) of the fluid (P) to be sampled is diverted from a selected tank (1.i), wherein this volume flow Q(P) is fed to the sampling device (5) and is returned from the sampling device into the selected tank (1.i), and wherein a quality control of the fluid (P) to be sampled is carried out in a flow-through fashion and/or a sample quantity (PR) of the fluid (P) is diverted from the volume flow Q(P) within the sampling device (5) during the circulation of the volume flow Q(P).
US08234934B2	Ultrasound measurement of the flow speed of a fluid in a conduit An ultrasound measurement apparatus (10) is set forth for measuring the flow speed of a fluid in a conduit (12) having a plurality of ultrasonic transducers (14) pairs of which span between them a plurality of main measurement paths and at least one diagnosis measurement path, and having an evaluation unit (12) which is made to determine a respective individual measured value for the flow speed from transit times of ultrasound transmitted and received with and against the flow on each measurement path (16, 18), to calculate individual measured values of the main measurement paths as a main measured value for the flow speed, to determine a measured diagnosis value from the at least one individual measured value of the diagnosis measured path and to compare the main measured value and the measured diagnosis value with one another. In this respect at least some of the ultrasonic transducers (14a) have widened transmission and reception lobes so that a plurality of ultrasonic transducers (14, 14a) are arranged in their transmission and reception lobes so that, in addition to the primary measurement paths (16) spanned between two mutually aligned ultrasonic transducers, at least one additional secondary measurement path (18) is opened as a main measurement path or as a diagnosis measurement path.
US08234933B2	Ultrasonic meter for determining physical quantity of a fluid based on a determined plurality of correlation coefficients An ultrasonic meter may include, but is not limited to, an emitter that emits a series of ultrasonic burst signals towards a fluid containing bubbles and/or particles, the series of ultrasonic burst signals being reflected by the air bubbles and/or particles in the fluid to be a series of reflected signals, a receiver that receives the series of reflected signals, and a calculator that calculates a plurality of correlation coefficients by performing a correlation processing on a series of received signals outputted from the receiver, the calculator calculating a physical quantity of the fluid based on the plurality of correlation coefficients.
US08234932B2	Annulus vortex flowmeter An annulus vortex flowmeter for use in conjunction with a subterranean well. A flowmeter includes a housing, a vortex responsive structure which vibrates in response to vortices produced external to the housing and a sensor which senses vibration of the structure and produces a signal indicative of a flow rate. A method of measuring fluid flow rate between a tubular string and a zone intersected by a wellbore includes utilizing a flowmeter having a vortex shedding device external to a housing for interconnection in the tubular string, the flowmeter including a vortex responsive structure which vibrates in response to vortices produced by the vortex shedding device as the fluid flows through an annulus external to the housing, and a sensor which senses vibration of the structure and produces a signal indicative of the rate of flow of the fluid; and determining the flow rate based on the sensor signal.
US08234931B2	Karman vortex flowmeter assembly comprising a fiber bragg grating sensor and method to measure a fluid flow rate An assembly comprising a fluid channel and a flowmeter, the flowmeter (1) comprising at least one vortex shedder (2) extending in the channel (C), each vortex shedder (2) being configured to generate Karman vortices (V) in fluid flowing through the channel (C) during operation, wherein each vortex shedder (2) is provided with a first fiber Bragg grating (FBG) of a fiber Bragg grating sensor (3, 7, FBG), wherein a Karman vortex frequency (fe) of the vortices (V) generated by the vortex shedder (2) is detectable utilizing a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor signal relating to the respective first fiber Bragg grating (FBG) of that vortex shedder (2).
US08234929B2	Contact sensors and methods for making same The present invention is directed to novel contact sensors. The contact sensors of the invention include a conductive composite material formed of a polymer and a conductive filler. In one particular embodiment, the composite materials can include less than about 10 wt % conductive filler. Thus, the composite material of the contact sensors can have physical characteristics essentially identical to the polymer, while being electrically conductive with the electrical resistance proportional to the load on the sensor. If desired, the sensors can be formed of the same polymeric material as the bearing that is being examined. The sensors can provide real time dynamic contact information for joint members under conditions expected during use. In one particular embodiment, the sensors can be used to examine dynamic wear characteristics of artificial joint bearings such as artificial knee, hip, or shoulder bearings.
US08234925B2	Device and method for monitoring the vibratory condition of a rotating machine This present invention is a device having a mechanical bearing formed by two coaxial rings, one fixed relative to the machine and the other rotating, between which at least one rolling element is moveably positioned, at least one non-conducting positioning arrangements secured to the fixed bearing ring, the positioning arrangements including at least one placement holder for at least one conducting element forming a first plate of a capacitor, at a distance from a conducting part of the rotating ring forming the second plate of the capacitor, and with the positioning arrangements attached to at least one partitioning arrangements, the partitioning arrangements being used to create a space between the two plates, thus forming a dielectric insulating medium, and to act as a sealed enclosure for this insulating medium by being in contact with a part of the surface of the rotating ring.
US08234921B2	Liquid seal sensor To provide a small-sized liquid seal sensor that can enhance degrees of freedom in detection directions. A liquid seal sensor having a liquid seal part that seals a liquid therein, and a detecting part that detects changes in the liquid sealed in the liquid seal part has a configuration in which the detecting part detects changes in the liquid sealed in the liquid seal part, and thus when an acceleration is applied, the detecting part detects changes in the liquid sealed in the liquid seal part, whereby the sensitivity to accelerations can be enhanced in any directions.
US08234920B2	Angular velocity sensor having drive member coupling beam spaced apart from drive members An angular velocity sensor includes first and second oscillators and a coupling beam. The coupling beam couples the first and second oscillators together in such a manner that the first and second oscillators vibrate relative to each other in a predetermined direction. The coupling beam includes a first post portion joined to a surface of the first oscillator, a second post portion joined to a surface of the second oscillator, and a spring portion that joins the first post portion to the second post portion. The spring portion is spaced from the first and second oscillators and has elasticity in the predetermined direction.
US08234915B2	Automatic engine oil life determination with a factor for degradation based on an initial volume of oil A method is provided for determining remaining oil life prior to an oil change in an internal combustion engine that has a sump and uses a body of oil. The method includes transferring the body of oil to the engine and determining a volume of the transferred body of oil. The method also includes determining degradation of the determined volume of oil in response to oxidation and/or decomposition. The method additionally includes determining the remaining oil life based on the determined volume and degradation of the transferred body of oil. Furthermore, the method includes activating an oil change indicator when the remaining oil life reaches a predetermined level. A system for determining a number of engine revolutions permitted on a volume of oil is also disclosed.
US08234914B2	Device for measuring flowing media An apparatus for determining at least one parameter of a medium flowing in a main flow direction, in particular of an intake air mass of an internal combustion engine, is proposed. The apparatus has a plug-in part that is introducible into the flowing medium with a predetermined alignment with respect to the main flow direction, having at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening as well as at least one main channel connecting the two openings. Also provided is at least one measurement channel that branches off from the main channel, having at least one sensor element, received in the measurement channel, for determining the at least one parameter. At least one directing surface, which diverts the flow of the medium from the measurement channel, is provided before a branching point of the measurement channel from the main channel. The directing surface is disposed at least in part at an angle α different from 90° with respect to a plane that is spanned by the main flow direction and the longitudinal extension axis.
US08234910B2	Aqueous chemical leak detection cable Disclosed are aqueous chemical leak detection cables that provide protection to sensor wires by using a conductive polymer coating that is resistant to corrosion by aqueous chemicals. In addition, non-conductive, liquid pervious layers may surround one or more of the sensor wires to assist in preventing false detection of an aqueous chemical leak as a result of various non-liquid contaminants. The non-conductive, liquid pervious layer may comprise spirally wrapped or braided, non-hydroscopic, non-conductive monofilament fibers, or a continuous, non-conductive pervious coating.
US08234907B2	Photo acoustic detector with improved signal processing A photo acoustic detector for detecting a concentration of a sample in a mixture includes a light source for producing a light beam for exciting molecules of the sample, and a light modulator for modulating the light beam for generating pressure variations in the sample mixture, where an amplitude of the pressure variations is a measure of the concentration. The detector further includes a detector element for converting the pressure variations into a detector current and a processing section for processing the detector current to generate an output signal representing the concentration. The processing section includes an integrating amplifier for integrating the detector current, the integrating amplifier being coupled to the detector element via a hold switch, and a timing circuit for generating a hold signal, SWHOLD, for operating the hold switch to couple the integrating amplifier to the detector element during a predetermined interval of the detector current.
US08234901B2	Method to create bends in composite panels A method for forming a bend in composite panel. In one advantageous embodiment, a method is used to form a bend in a composite panel. An angle and a radius bend are identified for the bend. A location of the bend in the composite panel is identified. A slot is cut having a curved flange in the composite panel at the identified location in a single pass through the composite panel with a tool, wherein the curved flange has a shape with a bend allowance width and a bend slot width. The bend allowance width is BA=2π*A/360, wherein BA is the bend allowance width, R is a corner radius, and A is a bend angle. The bend slot width is BS=BA−2K(R−T), wherein K is Tan(A/2) and T is a thickness of the composite panel. The composite panel with the slot is bent to form the bend.
US08234896B2	Padlock for adjusting to a length of a lock cylinder A padlock for adjusting to a length of a lock cylinder includes a padlock housing and a shackle having an unlocked position and a locked position within the padlock housing. A central bore is disposed in a bottom of the padlock housing having a depth longer than the length of the lock cylinder for accepting the lock cylinder within the padlock housing. An adaptable cam is adjustably joinable to a distal end of the lock cylinder for adjusting for a difference between the depth and the length, and for rotatable engagement of the shackle to enable the shackle to move between the locked position and the unlocked position. A lock cap is joinable to an open end of the central bore for retaining the adaptable cam and the lock cylinder within the central bore.
US08234895B2	Key apparatus There is provided a key apparatus, including: a key cylinder that is rotatable when a vehicle key is inserted; and an accommodating portion in which an assembling member is assembled in a body member, the body member and the assembling member form an inner surface, and the key cylinder is accommodated in the inner surface.
US08234892B2	Mortise lock A mortice lock is disclosed which has a lock casing which provides a first point of entrapment and a second point of entrapment, a latch bolt which can move between a latching position and an unlatching position, a handle for moving the latch bolt between the latching position and the un-latching position, a key cylinder, an operating assembly and a locking member. The operating assembly can move between a first position in which a deflectable portion of the operating assembly engages with the first point of entrapment and a second position in which the deflectable portion engages with the second point of entrapment. Only the key cylinder can move the operating assembly between the first position and the second position. The locking member (which is not a shoot bolt or part thereof) can move between a locking position in which a portion of the locking member engages with the latch bolt to prevent the latch bolt from moving into the un-latching position, and an unlocking position in which the latch bolt can move into the un-latching position. The locking member is operatively associated with the operating assembly such that moving the operating assembly into the first position moves the locking member into the unlocking position and moving the operating assembly into the second position moves the locking member into the locking position.
US08234890B2	Drum-type washing machine A drum-type washing machine is disclosed, in which bearings are received in the bearing housing assembly. The bearing housing assembly may include a support portion coupled to a motor, and a coupling portion connected to a damper bracket.
US08234889B2	Laundry machine A laundry machine is provided capable of washing or drying laundry. The laundry machine, includes a cabinet, a first washing tub that receives laundry disposed within the cabinet, a housing disposed adjacent the cabinet, a second washing tub provided within the housing that receives laundry, and at least one support device that supports the second washing tub with respect to the housing, substantially preventing vertical displacement of the second washing tub due to the weight of the second washing tub and limiting the displacement of the second washing tub due to vibration thereof.
US08234886B2	Jacquard thread-guide bar for warp knitting textile machines A jacquard thread-guide bar (2) for warp knitting textile machines, comprising a supporting body (7) provided with a plurality of housing seats (5) configured and arranged so as to engage each removably a mounting body (6) of a single piezoelectric actuator (3) and to carry out an individual removable mounting of the single piezoelectric actuator (3) onto said supporting body (7), the housing seats (5) extending perpendicularly to the main longitudinal extension of the bar (2) and being configured and arranged so as to guide the sliding of the mounting body (6) between a mounting position and a disengaged position.
US08234885B2	Gradient compression article knitted using corespun yarns A gradient compression article with therapeutic and aesthetic properties broadly includes a limb-receiving section extending continuously between a distal end and an open proximal end thereof. The limb-receiving section includes a tubular distal portion and a tubular proximal portion. The limb-receiving section is knitted at least substantially of a core-spun yarn with an elastomeric core and a twisted fiber sheath and includes elastomeric threads integrated into the stretch yarn knitting. The limb-receiving section further presents a gradient region that extends from a distal location adjacent the distal end to a proximal location adjacent the proximal end, with a property of the article changing progressively along the gradient region to provide compression that decreases progressively from the distal location to the proximal location when the article is donned.
US08234884B2	Air-cooling/tempering apparatus and air-cooling/tempering method for a glass sheet The present invention provides an air-cooling/tempering device and an air-cooling/tempering method for a glass sheet, which are capable of uniformly air-cooling and tempering a glass sheet as a whole without being affected by the pitch between adjacent rollers and a roller diameter.The roller body of each roller forming the air-cooling/tempering device includes a rotary shaft formed of a guide shaft permitting a bendable action; and a plurality of ring rollers carried on the guide shaft and engaged and coupled with adjacent ring rollers; and disc rollers fixedly carried at intervals on ring rollers so as not to overlap the disc rollers on an adjacent roller with respect to a conveying direction of the glass sheet. Further, outlet modules are disposed on ring rollers between adjacent disc rollers through bearings so as to be rotatable with respect to the rotary shaft.The coupled ring rollers can curve the guide shaft to curve the roller body, and the glass sheet is air-cooled and tempered by blowing cooling air to the glass sheet from the outlet modules while the glass sheet is conveyed by the disc rollers rotated via the ring rollers.
US08234882B2	Method for producing iridescent crystal glass The invention relates to a method for producing iridescent crystal glass. The glass products produced with the method of present invention have the advantages of good streamline shape, natural color transition, and excellent visual effect, etc.; the method is helpful for accelerating product upgrade, improving product appearance and visual effects, and enhancing competence of products. Therefore, we paint iridescent crystal ink on glass products, and add patterns suitable for household electric appliances and buildings, thereby greatly improving the appearance of the product. In addition, due to the high safety performance of toughened glass and suitability of patterns and colors, iridescent crystal glass products have been accepted by the consumers gradually. The method comprises the following steps: a. cutting; b. edge processing; c. toughening; d. ink preparation; e. iridescent crystal printing; f. drying: the drying time and drying temperature are controlled according to the properties of the mixed ink; the drying temperature is controlled at 120˜200° C., and the drying time is controlled within 5˜30 minutes.
US08234881B2	Multichannel heat exchanger with dissimilar flow Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided that include multichannel tube configurations designed to promote flow of refrigerant within the multichannel tubes near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid. The tube configurations include flow paths of varying cross-sections, spacings, and sizes. Flow control mechanisms, such as inserts, blocking plates, sleeves, crimped sections, and crushed sections, may be employed with the flow paths to favor flow near the edges of the tubes that are contacted first by an external fluid.
US08234877B2	Compressor discharge valve providing freeze and charge migration protection A refrigerant system includes a compressor with a discharge valve that temporarily restricts the compressor's outflow at startup so that the discharge pressure can quickly rise to force lubricant back to the compressor. The discharge valve also helps prevent an axial face of a rotor of a screw compressor from rubbing against a bearing housing axial face of the compressor's housing. When the system turns off under certain low ambient air temperature conditions, the valve closes to help prevent the system's evaporator from freezing up. The discharge valve includes a novel arrangement of a piston, a valve stem extending from the piston, and a valve plug pivotally attached to the valve stem. The pivotal connection ensures a positive seal between the valve plug and a valve seat. A somewhat restricted fluid passageway between the valve's discharge chamber and piston chamber helps prevent the valve from chattering as the valve opens.
US08234874B2	Systems and methods for bypassing an inlet air treatment filter A method of assembling an inlet air filter assembly for use with a turbine engine system. The method includes coupling an inlet hood to an air filter enclosure, such that an airflow path is defined between the inlet hood and the air filter enclosure. A pre-filter is coupled to the inlet hood, such that the pre-filter is positioned within the airflow path. A filter bypass assembly is coupled to the pre-filter for moving the pre-filter from an operating position to a bypass position during operation of the turbine engine system.
US08234873B2	Multi passage fuel manifold and methods of construction Integrally formed, multi zone fuel manifolds for gas turbine engines and methods of construction are provided. The fuel manifold includes a plurality of annular channel members positioned adjacent each other, aligned and coupled together at the inner and outer peripheral sides thereof, with each pair of channel members defining a separate fluid conduit or passage within the manifold assembly. The fuel manifold can be constructed of any number of stacked and secured channel members to provide a compact multi zone fuel manifold having the desired number of fluid conduits or passages with a minimum number of sealed joints.
US08234872B2	Turbine air flow conditioner A system includes an air flow conditioner configured to mount in an air chamber separated from a combustion chamber of a turbine combustor. The air flow conditioner comprises a perforated annular wall configured to direct an air flow in both an axial direction and a radial direction relative to an axis of the turbine combustor. In addition, the air flow conditioner is configured to uniformly supply the air flow into air inlets of one or more fuel nozzles.
US08234871B2	Method and apparatus for delivery of a fuel and combustion air mixture to a gas turbine engine using fuel distribution grooves in a manifold disk with discrete air passages A nozzle has combustion air passages extending from a first, upstream end to a second, downstream end. A fuel distribution manifold is associated with the first, upstream end of the nozzle. Combustion air passages correspond to, and align with the air passages in the nozzle. Fuel distribution grooves are formed in one end of the fuel distribution manifold disk and extend from a central opening to the air passages. A fuel circuit cover closes the fuel distribution grooves to define fuel passages that extend from the central opening to the combustion air passages. A fuel supply conduit communicates with the central opening and the fuel passages for delivery of fuel to the combustion air in the air passages.
US08234870B2	Additive injection system for improving thermal stability of jet fuel A gas turbine engine fuel system includes a fuel tank for storing fuel, a heat exchanger through which the fuel from the fuel tank can pass, a fuel pump located downstream from the heat exchanger for pumping the fuel, a fuel metering unit for metering the fuel pumped by the fuel pump, an additive tank for storing a fuel additive, an additive delivery subsystem for mixing the fuel additive with the fuel at or before the heat exchanger to generate a fuel and fuel additive mixture, and a combustor located downstream of the fuel metering unit where the fuel and fuel additive mixture is delivered for combustion. The fuel additive comprises a fuel stabilizer for reducing fuel coking.
US08234865B2	Thermatically operated bypass valve for passive warmup control of aftertreatment device In order for automobile exhaust catalysts to function they must be at operational temperatures. When an engine starts from cold the vehicle, including the exhaust system and any after-treatment device located therein, is at ambient temperature. Since 60% to 80% of the total emissions emitted occur at engine cold start and idle up to 120 seconds, it is imperative that the catalyst function as fast as possible. This invention provides a passive thermatically controlled bypass valve to enable the exhaust flow to bypass the enthalpy loss incurred by driving the turbine wheel of a turbocharger, and thus more rapidly deliver heat to the catalyst or after-treatment.
US08234861B2	Free flow hydro-powered hydraulic ram The water powered hydraulic ram, when housed in a supporting water-tight structure deep within a moving body of water, functions essentially as a four cycle engine with water as it prime mover. It is a linear motor, just as if it were powered by ordinary fossil-based fuels. It harnesses the force of moving water and the pressure of water at a depth and becomes a prime mover whose output is hydro-power. The component parts of this linear motor are a hydraulic ram cylinder, sliding ram pistons, a venturi/eductor jet pump, electronic piston positioning sensors, solenoid controlled valves and process program software. It is positioned to face an oncoming, irresistible downstream water force. It may be either singular or in plurality as an array. The ideal application is for a reverse osmosis membrane to remove the salt from seawater providing unlimited quantities of potable, fresh drinking water.
US08234860B2	Machine control system having hydraulic warmup procedure A control system for a machine is disclosed. The control system may have a pump, a low pressure reservoir, and at least one actuator connected to receive fluid pressurized by the pump and discharge fluid to the low pressure reservoir. The control system may also have a bypass passage situated to allow fluid to bypass the at least one actuator, and a warmup valve disposed within the bypass passage and being movable between a flow-passing position and a flow-blocking position. The control system may further have a hydraulic temperature sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a temperature of the fluid, and a controller in communication with the pump, the warmup valve, and the hydraulic temperature sensor. The controller may be configured to move the warmup valve to the flow-passing position, fix a displacement position of the pump, and adjust an input speed of the pump in response to the signal.
US08234857B2	Air supply system for a regeneration assembly A method of initiating regeneration of a filter assembly is disclosed. The method includes determining when regeneration of a filter assembly is to be initiated. The method also includes opening a first air valve configured to permit air flow to a regeneration assembly below a predetermined flow rate and at a sufficient flow rate to achieve ignition. The method further includes detecting ignition, and after ignition, opening a second air valve configured to supply air flow to the regeneration assembly above the predetermined flow rate and at a sufficient flow rate for regeneration.
US08234854B2	System and method for heating a reducing agent associated with a reducing agent distribution system A system for heating a reducing agent associated with a reducing agent distribution system. The system may include a reducing agent containment device, a distribution device connected to the reducing agent containment device, and at least one heating component associated with the reducing agent containment device. A temperature sensor may be configured to determine a temperature of the reducing agent and may be disposed at least partially within the reducing agent containment device. A pressure sensor may be associated with the distribution device and configured to determine a pressure characteristic of the system. A controller may be configured to receive input from the temperature sensor and the pressure sensor and configured to send input to the at least one heating component based on the input received from the temperature sensor and the pressure sensor.
US08234852B2	Track link for anti-skid chain The present invention pertains to a chain link for an anti-skid chain, wherein the chain link is designed as a straight chain link with an essentially oval shape with an upper and a lower side wall. The outer cross-sectional area of the chain link has a half-round design and the inner cross-sectional area has an angular design. At the same time, the present invention pertains to an anti-skid chain with a chain mesh, which has chain links according to the present invention.
US08234851B2	Tool and method for creating fashion accessories A device comprising: (a) a body portion including: (i) a first end and ii. a second end; (b) a holder at the first end; (c) a holder at the second end; (d) a rotation device at the first end in communication with the holder at the first end; and wherein the holder is fixedly attached to a split gear having a channel therethrough so that one or more flexible mediums may be placed through the channel and removed from a work area located between the holder at the first end and the holder at the second end.
US08234850B1	Tool and method for creating fashion accessories A device comprising: (a) a body portion including: (i) a first end and ii. a second end; (b) a holder at the first end; (c) a holder at the second end; (d) a rotation device at the first end in communication with the holder at the first end; and wherein the holder is fixedly attached to a split gear having a channel therethrough so that one or more flexible mediums may be placed through the channel and removed from a work area located between the holder at the first end and the holder at the second end.
US08234848B2	Robotic mower height of cut adjustment assembly A height of cut adjustment assembly for a robotic mower includes a height of cut drum secured to a bottom chassis of the robotic mower and having internal spiral threads, a motor cup supporting a cutting blade motor and having external spiral threads that engage the height of cut drum, and a blade shield fastened to the motor cup. The blade shield and the motor cup may be rotated to change height of cut. The blade shield and motor cup may be rotated one revolution to move the motor cup and blade shield vertically between a minimum and a maximum cutting height. Detents engage the motor cup with the drum at a plurality of different cutting heights.
US08234846B2	Shrink film applying apparatus having independently drivable flight bar assemblies A shrink film applying apparatus includes an article feed for feeding articles for shrink-wrapping at line pressure; a wrapping conveyor driven at a wrapping speed through a wrapping zone, the wrapping conveyor receiving articles from the article feed. First and second films are supplied to the wrapping zone. A plurality of flight bars are individually driven in a path at a variable speed. A sealing mechanism within the wrapping zone seals the first film to the second film at contact points to form a circumferential film unit substantially surrounding grouped articles within loops of second film and a corresponding portion of the first film, the film unit being shrinkable about the grouped articles to form a package. Related methods and subassemblies of the apparatus are disclosed.
US08234840B2	Form, fill, and seal system A form, fill and seal system having a product fill assembly, a tube forming assembly and a fitment securing assembly. The system allows for the relative positioning of the fitment that is to be applied to the film that forms the bags, at various points along the film by having the fitment securing assembly relatively positionable with respect to the tube forming assembly. In turn, with adjustments, a fitment can be located at a number of locations on a finished bag.
US08234838B2	Medicine dispensing system and medicine dispensing device There is provided a medicine dispensing system configured such that a medicine dispensing device includes a sub unit having a function to dispense medicine that is connected to a medicine dispensing device that includes a main unit having a function of packing medicines. There is also provided a medicine dispensing device that can be appropriately integrated with such a medicine dispensing system. The medicine dispensing system includes, in some embodiments a main unit, a sub unit and a transfer device connecting the main unit and the sub unit. The medicine dispensing system transfers the medicine dispensed in the sub unit to the main unit by means of a transfer device and dispenses the medicine at a medicine packing part together with the medicine dispensed from a main storage part in the main unit.
US08234837B2	Split columns with locating features A split column includes two half sections with locating features for aligning the half sections. A whole column is formed and then split into half sections. The locating features are formed on the inner surfaces of the half sections after the column is split into half sections.
US08234833B2	Structural insulated roof panels with rigid foam core A structural insulated roof panel with a rigid foam core is disclosed. A particular embodiment includes a rigid foam core having first and second faces, a plurality of support channels being formed on the first and second faces of the rigid foam core, each of the support channels being formed in the rigid foam core with at least one bend; and a plurality of supports being insertable into the plurality of support channels such that at least one face of each of the plurality of supports is external to the first and second faces of the rigid foam core and substantially flush with a face of the rigid foam core, each of the plurality of supports being fabricated using at least four bends to produce a support that fits within one of the plurality of support channels.
US08234832B2	Cast-in channel The present invention relates to a cast-in channel having a channel body which forms a receiving space for receiving a connecting element used to fixedly attach a fastening element to the cast-in channel, the channel body further being provided with holes, the holes having connectors provided therein for fixedly attaching anchoring members to the channel body. The connectors are designed as rivets, whose fixing portions, which are inserted through the respective holes, are expanded so as to secure the rivets to the channel body, and which have an attachment for fixedly attaching the anchoring members to the channel body. The present invention also relates to a rivet nut for a cast-in channel.
US08234831B2	Locking system for mechanical joining of floorboards and method for production thereof A locking system for mechanical joining of floorboards (1, 1′) which have a body (30), a lower balancing layer (34) and an upper surface layer (32). A strip (6) is integrally formed with the body (30) of the floorboard (1) and extends under an adjoining floorboard (1′). The strip (6) has a locking element (8), which engages a looking groove (14) in the underside of the adjoining floorboard (1′) and forms a horizontal joint. A tongue (38) and a tongue groove (36) form a vertical joint between upper and lower plane-parallel contact surfaces (43, 45) and are designed in such manner that the lower contact surfaces (45) are on a level between the upper side of the locking element (8) and a plane containing the underside (3) of the floorboard. Also, a floorboard having such a locking system, a floor made of such floorboards, as well as a method for making such a locking system.
US08234829B2	Floor panel and method for the manufacture thereof Floor panel of the type comprising a hard top layer forming a decorative surface, from which, together with other identical or similar floor panels, a floor covering can be formed, wherein this floor panel includes at least one sound-absorbing layer which is integrated into the floor panel and is located between other layers of this floor panel.
US08234827B1	Express framing building construction system A light steel framing construction technique for light gauge load bearing wall type buildings uses specialized brackets to suspend poured slab floors. Multiple stories of the building can be erected without waiting for individual concrete slab floors to be poured and set at each story. During construction, a building is protected from torsional warping, such as may be occur under wind loads, by a series of lateral and diagonal bracing structures at each level affixed in a plane perpendicular to the load bearing elements. Multiple concrete floor slabs can be poured sequentially or simultaneously, as desired, during the construction process.
US08234826B1	Hold down clip A hold down clip, a metal stud assembly structure, and a method for assembling metal studs for building walls. The hold down clip has a base portion containing an elongate slot therein. A leg portion of the clip is orthogonal to the base portion and contains a plurality of bolt holes therein for attaching the leg portion to a metal stud. A reinforcing flange is attached to the leg portion and base portion. A connecting bolt is disposed in a slotted aperture in the base portion for connecting the clip to a floor or to an adjacent metal stud.
US08234824B2	Photovoltaic module with removable wind deflector A photovoltaic (PV) module assembly including a PV module, a deflector, and a clip. The PV module includes a PV device and a frame. A PV laminate is assembled to the frame, and the frame includes a support arm forming a seat. The deflector defines a front face and a rear face, with the clip extending from either the trailing frame member or the rear face of the deflector. In a mounted state, the deflector is nested within the seat and is releasably mounted to the trailing frame member via the clip. In some embodiments, the support arm forms a second seat, with the PV module assembly providing a second mounted state in which the deflector is in a differing orientation/slope, nested within the second seat and releasably mounted to the trailing frame member via the clip.
US08234822B2	Mobile environment containment unit A mobile environmental containment unit has an upper frame with a sealing surface, a flexible, transparent impermeable envelope with an open top and one or more access openings that depends from the upper frame, and a lower frame that is supported by the envelope. The upper frame of the unit is supported by telescoping support members with the sealing surface of the upper frame and the open top of the envelope fitted against a portion of a ceiling which is accessible by a workman via the one or more access openings and the open top of the envelope.
US08234821B2	Strut runner member and assembly using same for mounting arrays on rooftops and other structures A strut runner includes a member extending lengthwise in a first direction, where the member includes an underlying panel and one or more walls that extend from the panel. The member may be configured to at least partially support the panel array while being integrated or directly connected to the underlying structure. Additionally, the strut runner may include one or more peripheral extensions that extend a distance outward from the body.
US08234819B2	Pivoting gutter assembly supported by magnetic latches The invention relates to means and methods for maintaining a gutter assembly either in the upward, rain-gathering position or in the downward position under the eaves, where it can be cleaned with a water jet. In the downward position, the gutter assembly remains protected from snow and ice sliding from the roof. Brackets fixated to magnetic latches attached to the fascia support the gutter. Closed magnetic latches maintain the gutter assembly in the upward position. Open magnetic latches maintain the gutter assembly in the downward position. Transition from the upward to the downward position, or vice versa, is achieved from the ground by means of a hook and a U-shaped fork attached to a pole. If the gutter is left in the upward position in winter, snow and ice sliding from the roof will push it to the downward position without damaging it.
US08234818B2	Refrigerating and/or freezing appliance A refrigerator and/or freezer with an appliance carcass, can be closed by at least one door, and a powered door operating device for automatically operating the door. The door operating device has drives both automatically opening and closing the door.
US08234816B2	Door for a motor vehicle A door that is pivotable and slidable relative to a vehicle includes an articulated arm pivotably supported at a pivot joint, a guide carriage displaceably guided by a guide rail and coupled to the pivot joint, a tie rod, the tie rod being hingedly connected to the guide carriage, and a spring-loaded index bolt which is vertically displaceable. The door further comprises a rotary slide having a rotary slide surface which dictates vertical movement of the index bolt between a first position in which the articulated arm and the tie rod are engaged by the index bolt so that the articulated arm and the tie rod rotate in unison and a second position in which the tie rod is disengaged from the index bolt so that the articulated arm pivots relative to the tie rod.
US08234815B2	Terraced garden planter A planter including a center post and a series of upwardly-opening disc-shaped growing compartments which are arranged in a sequential relationship along the length of the center post and are suspended from the top of the center post. Each of the growing compartments has a center opening through which the center post extends so that the growing compartments are maintained in a centered relationship about the center post. Furthermore, a lowermost growing compartment has a substantially solid bottom for containing dirt or potting soil placed therein, and the remainder of the growing compartments have bottoms within which including relatively large openings are defined to accommodate the passage of relatively large clumps of dirt or potting soil through the bottoms thereof so that each of the growing compartments can be filled with dirt or potting soil placed into the uppermost growing compartment.
US08234813B2	Hydroponic growing enclosure and method for growing, harvesting, processing and distributing algae, related microrganisms and their by products Systems and methods for hydroponically growing microorganisms within a self-contained air-supported structure, in which microorganisms are grown in an organic slurry, harvested, and processed to obtain and process and distribute molecules useful for biofuel or other purposes.
US08234811B2	Pest control method and apparatus An apparatus to project toward a tree to disburse a pheromone, comprising: a releaser removably adjacent to a capsule via an extension; whereby said releaser and said capsule are disposed adjacent to each other in a deployable state, then the releaser separates from the capsule but is still connected via said extension whereby inertia causes said releaser to move away from said capsule into an attachment state, and related methods of applying a pheromone onto a tree branch.
US08234808B2	Monolithic rail platform and bolt assemblies for a firearm A firearm assembly for a firearm can include a monolithic rail platform with a handguard portion and an upper receiver portion. The barrel of the firearm can be positioned through the handguard portion and secured with the upper receiver portion. A firearm assembly can also include a bolt assembly with a bolt carrier having minimized land area and a forward end sized for receipt in the barrel extension at the rearward end of the barrel.
US08234807B2	High feed ramp for colt 1911 style handguns A high feed ramp for use in Colt 1911 style handguns including a feed ramp on the frame (receiver) for guiding bullets into the barrel of the gun; a boiler room (barrel breech) with a small chamfered around its entire inner circumference; and an integral relief rim extension on the upper edge of the feed ramp, such that the feed ramp is extended over the bottom edge of the chamfered boiler room; wherein when the handgun is fired the bullets easily enter into the barrel and do not jam or misfire.
US08234803B2	Reflective device for an electric fireplace and an electric fireplace incorporating the same A reflective device for use in an electric fireplace and a fireplace incorporating the same. The reflective device includes a shaft having a first and a second end cap mounted at opposite ends. An intermediate member extends outwardly from the shaft between the first and second end caps. One or more reflecting strips extend longitudinally between the first and second end caps and are spaced a distance away from the shaft. The reflecting strips are separated from each other by longitudinal gaps and are mounted so that they angle downwardly relative to the shaft from the intermediate member toward the first and second end caps. The shaft is rotated about its longitudinal axis so that it reflects light from a light source toward one of a screen, simulated ember bed and artificial log display in the fireplace housing.
US08234795B2	Vertical drum drier A method and apparatus for drying produce in a centrifugal drier is described. The drier includes a housing and a drum configured to receive a multi-volume basket. The method includes loading produce into a first volume and a second volume of the multi-volume basket. The basket may include perforated walls, a closed lower end, and an open upper end. The interior volume of the basket is divided into at least a first volume and a second volume by a perforated inner divider that is oriented concentrically to the basket walls. The first volume is disposed inside the inner divider. The second volume is disposed between the inner divider and the basket walls. A drive assembly rotates the drum and the basket, loaded with produce in the first and second volumes, to cause fluids to drain out of the produce to yield dried produce.
US08234794B2	Method of indicating additional character combination choices on a handheld electronic device and associated apparatus A method and associated apparatus for indicating additional character combination choices from a disambiguation function on a handheld electronic device.
US08234793B2	Arrangement with a scale fastened on a support An arrangement for a scale, the arrangement including a scale having a measurement graduation that defines a measurement range and a support arranged opposite to the measurement graduation. The arrangement further includes spheres two-dimensionally distributed on the support, wherein the spheres are immovably fixed on the support and to the scale.
US08234790B2	Utility knife A utility knife includes a handle, a blade assembly secured to the handle, a blade cover mechanically coupled to the handle facilitating manipulability of the blade cover to an extended position over the blade assembly, and a slider that is repositionable along the handle to release the blade cover from the extended position, the slider being pivotally coupled to the blade assembly.
US08234784B2	Valve piston repositioning apparatus and method Apparatus and method for extending the life of a booster valve in an automatic transmission. The booster valve commonly resides in the pump stator body and is modulated by reverse oil pressure and pressure control solenoid pressure signals. Pressure signals from the reverse oil pressure and the pressure control solenoid force a booster valve piston towards a pressure regulator valve piston also generally residing in the pump stator body. The booster valve piston slides inside a booster valve sleeve, and over time, the booster valve sleeve wears and the performance of the booster valve degrades or fails. The present invention replaces an original inner booster valve spring with a longer (or in some cases shorter) replacement booster valve spring to shift the operating range of the booster valve piston to an unworn portion of the booster valve sleeve to extend the life of the booster valve.
US08234783B2	Method for attaching a connector to a coaxial cable A method for using a cable assembly apparatus for coupling a connector to a cable having a base supporting an interface pedestal dimensioned to receive the connector; an inductor coil coupled to an inductor coil actuator operable to move the inductor coil between a load position and an operation position proximate the interface pedestal; a grip clamp operable by a clamp actuator to move between an open position and a closed position above the interface pedestal; and a temperature sensor configured to read a temperature proximate the interface pedestal. The method includes using the apparatus for retaining the pre-assembled connector and cable in an aligned orientation for controlled heating by the induction heater to heat a solder perform to solder the connector to an outer conductor of the cable.
US08234781B2	Printed circuit board and method of fabricating the same Disclosed is a printed circuit board, which includes an insulating member having a circuit pattern embedded in one surface thereof, a build-up layer formed on one surface of the insulating member and including a build-up insulating layer and a circuit layer formed in the build-up insulating layer and having a via connected to the circuit pattern, and a solder resist layer formed on the build-up layer. A method of fabricating the printed circuit board is also provided. The printed circuit board is fabricated using a build-up process and the outermost circuit layer thereof is formed to have an embedded structure using an imprinting process, thus minimizing the separation of the circuit layer and reducing the lead time and the fabrication cost.
US08234780B2	Substrate carrier system A substrate carrier system is provided for physical management of substrate(s) during a variety of assembly techniques performed on the both sides of the substrate(s) without dismounting or changing carrier systems.
US08234779B2	Arrangement and system at a component mounting machine A component tube holding arrangement for holding one or more component tubes and for vibratory feeding of components in a picking position in a component mounting machine, as well as a combination of such a component tube holding arrangement and a vibratory feed magazine. The arrangement comprises a support surface for supporting component tubes, a reception portion for receiving component tubes, and at least one component stop at the reception portion defining a picking position for fed components. The arrangement also comprises identification means holding information of the identity of the arrangement. The arrangement is further arranged to be releasably mountable in a component mounting machine or in a vibratory feed magazine arranged to be loaded into the component mounting machine. The component tube holding arrangement lacks component feeding means and is arranged for allowing vibratory feeding means provided in the magazine.
US08234776B2	Method for providing and magnetizing a mechanically keyed permanent magnet rotor, resultant magnetic field synchronized with the mechanical key A method for making and magnetizing an un-magnetized mechanically keyed permanent magnet rotor that can be magnetized in a magnetization fixture, without regard to the angular position of the rotor in the magnetizing fixture, and nevertheless result in a permanent magnetic field angularly synchronized to said keyed rotor comprises the steps of providing an annular permanent magnet or annular permanent magnet rotor body; a mechanically keyed rotor shaft; means for aligning and assembling the un-magnetized permanent magnet or permanent magnet rotor body and the mechanically keyed rotor shaft during assembly to form an assembled rotor; and magnetization thereof.
US08234774B2	Method for fabricating a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) resonator One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for decreasing a temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) of a MEMS resonator. The method comprises lithographically defining slots in the MEMS resonator beams and filling the slots with oxide. By growing oxide within the slots, the amount of oxide growth on the outside surfaces of the MEMS resonator may be reduced. Furthermore, by situating the slots in the areas of large flexural stresses, the contribution of the embedded oxide to the overall TCF of the MEMS resonator is increased, and the total amount of oxide needed to decrease the overall TCF of the MEMS resonator to a particular target value is reduced. As a result, the TCF of the MEMS resonator may be reduced in a manner that is more effective relative to prior art approaches.
US08234769B2	Device and method for mounting a needle guard on a syringe body The invention relates to a device for mounting a needle guard onto a syringe body that is provided with a needle. The device includes a retaining device for retaining the syringe body, a needle guard receptacle for receiving the needle guard, a compressed air system for providing compressed air, a first displacement device for displacing the needle guard receptacle in a vertical direction, and a rotation device for at least partially rotating the needle guard receptacle. The needle guard receptacle is disposed beneath the retaining device while the compressed air is fed to the needle guard receptacle such that the needle guard is suspended on an air cushion in a floating manner. The needle guard receptacle can be displaced in a vertical direction by the first displacement device. The invention further relates to a method for mounting the needle guard onto the syringe body.
US08234766B2	Device and method for reconditioning slip rings in a built-in state A method and a device are provided for reworking or re-machining the surface and, in particular, the slide tracks of a slip ring while the slip ring is in a built-in state in an appliance or machine using the slip ring. The slip ring is rotated by a drive provided in the appliance for rotating the slip ring during normal operation, or by an auxiliary drive, while a surface-removing cutting tool or surface deforming tool held in a tool holder or carrier adapted to be attached to the appliance or machine is applied to the surface of the moving slip ring to re-machine or recondition the surface. The invention avoids the necessity of dismantling the appliance or machine for the purpose of removing the slip ring for repairs.
US08234761B2	Wire-gate carabiner One embodiment of the present invention relates to an improved wire-gate carabiner system including a frame, gate, and gate biasing system. The gate is pivotably coupled to the frame across an opening to form a continuously enclosed inner region in a closed configuration. The gate may be referred to as a wire-type gate in that it includes an arch and two ends. The arch is looped over a hook disposed on the keyed region of the frame in the closed configuration. The two ends are pivotably coupled to the frame at two independent gate coupling points on the pivot region so as to utilize the torsional rigidity of the gate structure as the gate biasing system. The keyed region of the frame includes a hook and a cover. The cover is oriented and shaped to laterally shield the arch and hook from undesirable couplings.
US08234757B2	Security strap A theft resistant strap and buckle assembly for securing cargo on a vehicle rack includes a strap and a buckle. The strap is reinforced to resist cutting. The buckle has a lock and pawl device that operates to prevent loosening of the strap when the buckle is locked.
US08234755B1	Adjustable extension for handles The present invention relates to an extension for handles of an existing device. In accordance with the current invention, extensions can be connected to the handles and securely adjusted in both generally vertical and generally horizontal directions. Extensions of the current invention are particularly well-suited for use with the handles of rollable devices.
US08234750B2	Vacuum cleaner accessory valve A vacuum cleaner having a base with a: nozzle opening, rear housing attached to the base, dirt separator with inlet and outlet passages, vacuum fan, accessory hose, and valve system to connect the separator alternately to the nozzle opening and hose. The valve system has a valve body having a first inlet connected to the nozzle opening and a second inlet connected to the hose, a hose connector that pivots with respect to the valve body, a connector passage through the hose connector, and a flexible outlet hose having a first end connected to the connector passage and a second end connected to the separator inlet passage. The valve inlets are generally equidistant from the connector pivot and the hose connector is pivotable to rotate the first hose end relative to the second hose end to selectively place the connector passage in communication with the first and second valve inlets.
US08234748B2	Floor cleaning machine Floor cleaning machine 1, comprising a cleaning system 2, 3, 4, at least one front wheel 5; 5′; 5a, 5b as well as two rear wheels 6a, 6b, 6a′, 6b′ and a drive mechanism 7; 7a, 7b, wherein the drive mechanism is an electric mono wheel drive and wherein the operator 8 is placed on the machine, characterized in that the operator is standing on a platform 9 which is located above the geometrical axis Z between the two rear wheels, wherein the maximum vertical distance between the platform and the floor is 200 mm. The front wheel can be a castor wheel 5 and the rear wheels 6a, 6b can be independently driven by drive motors 7a, 7b—instead of one castor wheel, two independent castor wheels 5a, 5b can be provided. The front wheel can also be a steered wheel 5′ which is powered by a drive 7 and the rear wheels 6a′, 6b′ can be independently suspended and not driven.
US08234741B2	Oral care implement having tissue cleanser An oral care implement includes a handle and a head connected to the handle. A tissue cleanser is positioned on the head and has a textured surface and a plurality of apertures extending therethough. Each of a plurality of tissue cleaning elements extends through one of the apertures and extends outwardly from the head.
US08234738B2	Bridge construction and method of replacing bridges A bridge replacement method is disclosed. The bridge includes a deck supported by a pair of abutments, each abutment having wing walls. The deck is removed, footings are cast in holes dug behind each abutment and a pier is provided on each footing. Substantially parallel and coplanar cambered beams are provided. Each beam spans between and is supported by the piers. A brace assembly reinforces the beam camber. On each adjacent pair of beams, precast deck elements are placed, such that each element of said plurality spans the beam pair, to define at least transverse gaps between the elements and put the upper surfaces of the elements in compression in a transverse direction. The gaps are grouted. After grout curing, the brace is adjusted to reduce the beam camber and cause the upper surface of the elements to also be put into compression in a direction parallel to the beams.
US08234732B2	Orthopedic pillow An orthopedic pillow has a plurality of foam layers. The plurality of foam layers includes a top foam layer made of memory foam. The top foam layer is constructed and arranged to receive a user's head. The plurality of foam layers also includes a middle foam layer made of latex foam, the middle layer defining a central opening, and a bottom layer made of latex foam. The orthopedic pillow also has a high density foam tube affixed to an edge of the top foam layer. The high density foam tube is constructed and arranged to support the user's neck.
US08234731B2	Head support apparatus for spinal surgery An apparatus comprises a base configured to mount on a frame, a post coupled to the base and extending upwardly therefrom, a head support for supporting the head of a patient lying in a prone position on the frame, and a lockable joint coupled to the post and coupled to the head support to position the head support above the base. The lockable joint, when locked, prevents movement of the head support along the post and prevents movement of the head support relative to the post about a plurality of axes. The lockable joint, when unlocked, allows movement of the head support along the post and allows movement of the head support relative to the post about the plurality of axes.
US08234730B2	Body support apparatus for spinal surgery A body-support apparatus comprises a support assembly including two couplers and a cross-member and a plurality of body-support portions supported on the support assembly and moveable relative to the support assembly. The body-support apparatus is configured to be mounted on a patient-support apparatus which has generally parallel spaced apart members.
US08234723B2	Method and apparatus for delivering a urinal cleanser and trap sealant A waterless urinal has a fixture including a backsplash and side walls joining a bowl at the bottom. Mounted on the top of the fixture is a fluid reservoir, a valve and a controller. The controller periodically opens the valve to release a quantity of a cleansing sealant from the reservoir onto the non-wetted surfaces of the fixture. The cleansing sealant cleans the non-wetted surfaces and then flows into the bowl where it collects to replenish the trap seal.
US08239968B2	Athermal atomic force microscope probes An atomic force microscopy system includes an imaging probe having a first thermal displacement constant and a sample placement surface. At least a portion of the sample placement surface has a second thermal displacement constant. The sample placement surface is spaced apart from the imaging probe at a predetermined displacement. The sample placement surface is configured so that the second thermal displacement constant matches the first thermal displacement constant so that when the imaging probe and the sample placement surface are subject to a predetermined temperature, both the portion of the sample placement surface and the imaging prove are displaced by a same distance.
US08239967B2	Simultaneous tamper-proofing and anti-piracy protection of software Simultaneous tamper-proofing and anti-piracy protection of software is provided by splitting applications into two parts: an application, and an application launcher. The application is subject to the tamper-proofing protections deployed by a networked service, while the application launcher is subject to anti-piracy protections. To ensure that the application benefits from the anti-piracy protection of the application launcher, the application and application launcher share a trusted challenge-response relationship. The application includes a challenger library for issuing challenges to the application launcher, and the application launcher includes a responder library for responding to such challenges.
US08239965B2	Method of controlling a conference system, program product, and storage medium A conference system includes a storage unit configured to store electronic data used as conference material, a display unit configured to display electronic data stored in the storage unit, an identifying unit configured to identify an attendee of a conference, and a memory unit configured to store information about an attendee identified by the identifying unit as viewing history information in association with electronic data displayed by the display.
US08239960B2	Method for network traffic mirroring with data privacy Systems and methods are provided for preserving the privacy of data contained in mirrored network traffic. The mirrored network traffic may comprise data that may be considered confidential, privileged, private, or otherwise sensitive data. For example, the data payload of a frame of mirrored network traffic may include private Voice over IP (VoIP) communications between users on one or more networks. The present invention provides various techniques for securing the privacy of data contained in the mirrored network traffic. Using the techniques of the present invention, network traffic comprising confidential, privileged, private, or otherwise sensitive data may be mirrored in such a manner as to provide for the privacy of such data over at least a portion if not all of the mirrored communications between the mirror source point and the mirror destination point.
US08239955B2	System and method for adjusting the security level of a removable medium A method of adjusting a security level of a removable medium, including receiving a unique identification (ID) of a removable medium, a name of a file being processed, and a requested operation, determining the security level of the removable medium, determining a security level of the file being processed, and one of increasing and decreasing the security level of the removable medium based on the determined security level of the file being processed. Further, security levels of removable media are mapped to security zones which are subsequently used to allow or prevent transportation of a removable medium inside or outside of certain boundaries.
US08239953B1	Applying differing security policies for users who contribute differently to machine hygiene A security module manages differences in hygiene by applying differing levels of security policy to interactions of users with clients according to separate hygiene of the users and the clients. The module monitors computer security practices of clients and users in an environment, and uses this to client a machine hygiene score for a given client and a user hygiene score for a given user. The scores represent an assessment of the trustworthiness of the client and of the user. The module dynamically combines the scores computed for an interaction between the given user and given client, and applies a level of security policy to the interaction accordingly, determining what activities can be performed on the client based on the level of policy applied.
US08239952B1	Method and system for detection of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities A method for detecting remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in a web application includes altering of extracted resource references from a web application, submission of altered references as HTTP requests to the web application, inspection of corresponding HTTP responses, and diagnosis of vulnerability. A system of invention implements the method.
US08239951B2	System, method and computer readable medium for evaluating a security characteristic A method, system and computer program product for evaluating an IDP entity, the method includes evaluating an effect of at least one IDP rule applied by the IDP entity on legitimate traffic, based upon a network model; evaluating an effect of at least one IDP rule applied by the IDP entity based upon a network model and an attack model; determining an effectiveness of the IDP entity in response to the evaluated effects.
US08239948B1	Selecting malware signatures to reduce false-positive detections A set of candidate signatures for a malicious software (malware) is generated. The candidate signatures in the set are scored based on features that indicate the signatures are more unique and thus less likely to generically occur non-malicious programs. A malware signature for the malware entity is selected from among the candidate malware signatures based on the scores. The selected malware signature is stored.
US08239946B2	Methods and systems for computer security A method for maintaining computer security, includes providing a database of known good software, opening a file, identifying the file being opened, determining whether an entry exists in the database of known good software for the identified file and performing at least one of allowing and preventing the opening of the file from continuing based on the result of the determination.
US08239942B2	Parallel intrusion detection sensors with load balancing for high speed networks Various embodiments of a method and system for detecting unauthorized signatures to or from a local network. Multiple sensors are connected at an internetworking device, which can be a router or a switch. The sensors operate in parallel and each receives a portion of traffic through the internetworking device, at a session-based level or at a lower (packet-based) level. Depending on the type of internetworking device (router or switch) the load balancing mechanism that distributes the packets can be internal or external to the internetworking device. Also depending on the level of packet distribution (session-based or packet-based), the sensors share a network analyzer (if session-based) or both a network analyzer and a session analyzer (if packet-based).
US08239940B2	Functional patching/hooking detection and prevention A method for preventing malicious attacks on software, using the patching method, includes providing a database of legitimate and known patches, the database contains characteristic code paths of said legitimate patches. The method also includes detecting whether a patch is malicious by inspecting one or more characteristic paths of the patch and matching one or more code paths against the database of legitimate and known patches. An activity needed to prevent the malicious patch from performing undesired activities is then performed.
US08239938B2	Centralized device virtualization layer for heterogeneous processing units A method for providing an operating system access to devices, including enumerating hardware devices and virtualized devices, where resources associated with a first hardware device are divided into guest physical resources creating a software virtualized device, and multiple instances of resources associated with a second hardware device are advertised thereby creating a hardware virtualized device. First and second permission lists are generated that specify which operating systems are permitted to access the software virtualized device and the hardware virtualized device, respectively. First and second sets of virtual address maps are generated, where each set maps an address space associated with either the software virtualized device or the hardware virtualized device into an address space associated with each operating system included in the corresponding permission list. The method further includes arbitrating access requests from each of the plurality of operating systems based on the permission lists and the virtual address maps.
US08239936B2	Securing unprivileged sessions on POSIX systems A method and apparatus for providing security to Portable Operating System Interface (POSIX) system. In one embodiment, a file system with noexec/nodev options is mounted on the POSIX system. The root directory of the mounted file system is changed with a chroot operation to generate a secured system directory structure. The secured system directory structure is assigned to a non-administrative user.
US08239933B2	Network protecting authentication proxy It is convenient to allow access to a private network, such as a corporate intranet, or outward facing extranet application, from an external network, such as the Internet. Unfortunately, if an internal authentication system is used to control access from the external network, it may be attacked, such as by a malicious party intentionally attempting multiple invalid authentications to ultimately result in an attacked account being locked out. To circumvent this, an authentication front-end, proxy, wrapper, etc. may be employed which checks for lockout conditions prior to attempting to authenticate security credentials with the internal authentication system.
US08239932B2	Signal transfer point front end processor In an SS7 network, each of a plurality of Signal Transfer Points is fronted by a front-end processor (STP-FEP) that has a network presence. The STP-FEP implements at least the MTP2 layer of the SS7 protocol stack and implements security rules at the MTP2 and MTP3 layers.
US08239931B2	Communication apparatus, a firewall control method, and a firewall control program A communication apparatus used in a plurality of networks is disclosed. The communication apparatus includes a firewall which allows communication with outside of the communication apparatus when disabled, and prohibits communication with outside of the communication apparatus when enabled. Then, the communication apparatus includes a firewall control unit which acquires a first MAC address of a first default gateway provided for a predetermined specific network and a second MAC address of a second default gateway provided for a network in which the communication apparatus is being connected, and controls the firewall according to a result of comparison of the first MAC address and the second MAC address.
US08239928B2	Access control system and method based on hierarchical key, and authentication key exchange method thereof Disclosed relates to an access control system and method based on hierarchical keys. The system comprises an access control server (ACS), a home gateway, and a plurality of sensor devices disposed on a home network. The ACS sets up user's access limits of authority and authorization verifier, and saves the related data of user's password and the user's access limits of authority. The gateway records the authority limits' level and the authority limits' key which are constructed based on a hierarchical key structure. When a user logs in the ACS to request access, an one-time communication key between the user and the home gateway is established by exchanging the ticket and the token that are issued by the ACS. This allows the user to access the information of the sensor devices.
US08239926B1	Method and system for obtaining identification information on a mobile device Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for obtaining a limited ID cookie for ad targeting are disclosed. A client requests a limited ID cookie from a cookie making module (CMM), which sends a personal cookie to a verification module for verification. After verification, verification module sends a user ID with user information to CMM. CMM creates the limited ID cookie, and the limited ID cookie is sent to the client. The limited ID cookie is sent to an ads server which utilizes the limited ID cookie to target ads towards the user.
US08239924B2	Method and system for authenticating a user based on a physical object An authentication method based on the use of an inanimate physical object that includes storing first object data in a storage medium, wherein the first object data is generated based on a first image of at least a portion of the physical object, capturing a second image of the at least a portion of the physical object, and generating second object data based on the second image. The method further includes searching the storage medium and determining that the second object data and the first object data are a match, and authenticating an individual associated with the physical object in response that determination. Also provided are embodiments of an authentication system that may be adapted to implement the method.
US08239923B2	Controlling computer program extensions in a network device A network infrastructure element such as a packet data router or switch hosts an application program and one or more user program extensions to the application program. Logic in the network element is configured to perform creating and storing one or more default program security permissions; receiving a user-defined security policy that defines one or more user extension security permissions for the one or more user program extensions; creating and storing only each of the one or more user extension security permissions that do not conflict with the default program security permissions; receiving a request from one of the user program extensions to access a resource of the apparatus or the network; permitting the request to access the resource or the network only when the access does not violate the user extension security permissions and the default program security permissions.
US08239920B2	Authentication system and method An authentication apparatus and technology operable to change a response time based on a degree of authentication failure is disclosed. A degree of authentication failure can be determined in response to an authentication failure. A response time such as an authentication response time can be changed based on the degree of authentication failure. Intervals between entries of a password may be increased logarithmically based on the number of failed login attempts to deter unauthorized access.
US08239919B2	Flexible hardware password protection and access control An optic module is disclosed having a memory configured to store data. To selectively control access to the memory and data stored in memory, a method and apparatus for memory access control is provided which creates access levels. The access levels include associated passwords, and read/write capability control, and address access range. During use a technician or other party would enter a password via an interface and the entered password is compared to the password associated with each access level. If a match is not found, then access to the memory, a hence data within the memory is denied. If a match is found the technician gains access to the data stored in the memory address range associated with the access level. Read and write access may also be granted or denied.
US08239918B1	Application marketplace administrative controls A computer-implemented method includes receiving, by one or more servers associated with an application marketplace, a policy that includes data that identifies one or more users, and a restricted permission. A request is received, by the servers associated with the application marketplace, to access one or more applications that are distributed through the application marketplace, wherein the request includes data that identifies a particular one of the users. One or more of the applications that are associated with the restricted permission are identified by the servers associated with the application marketplace, and access by the particular user to the applications that are associated with the restricted permission is restricted by the servers associated with the application marketplace.
US08239916B2	Methods, data processing systems, and computer program products for assigning privacy levels to data elements Methods, data processing systems and computer program products for assessing and assigning privacy levels to data elements are provided. A method of assigning privacy levels to data elements (e.g., text files, web page files, image files, audio files, video files, and portions thereof) includes assigning a predetermined privacy level to a data element; storing the data element with the assigned privacy level; determining if the assigned privacy level for data element is proper; and assigning a different privacy level to the data element in response to determining that a currently assigned privacy level for the data element is not proper. A predetermined privacy level may be assigned to a data element under various conditions, such as when the data element arrives at a device, when the data element is created by a device, and/or when the data element is modified by a device.
US08239914B2	Highly integrated single chip set-top box A highly integrated set-top box is implemented on a single semiconductor substrate. For instance, an analog RF tuner is implemented on the same substrate with a digital receiver, and audio-video back-end circuits. The single chip set-top box can be used for satellite, cable, internet, or terrestrial TV applications, or other applications. As a result, the substrate area, assembly time, and associated costs per chip are reduced.
US08239904B2	Video path confirmation There is disclosed a method, device, and system for verifying a video path between a source device and a destination device. The destination device may receive a video signal including at least one video test pattern from the source device via a network. The destination device may automatically judge that a video path exists if the received video signal meets at least one predetermined criteria.
US08239903B1	Open cable application platform (OCAP), set-top box (STB), next generation service application One exemplary aspect is advanced multimedia communications via OCAP using customer specific profiles resident in the STB for service application management. Additional aspects relate to service application management including filtering, controlling the display of content associated with one or more service applications, performing an action based on the service application, scheduling a communication based on the service application and initiating a request for service based on, for example, a detected problem. Still further aspects relate to managing information associated with a service application received at a STB including initiating a communication to a support representative.
US08239902B2	Method and apparatus for bandwidth optimization of a content on demand service A method of providing a preview and or replay function for a content on demand service provided by a service provider to a plurality of users. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes: generating a first stream of content for transmission to a user; generating one or more other streams of content, each of which are derived from the first stream of content and differ therefrom in that the other streams are each in advance of or after the first stream by a time difference; transmitting the first stream of content to the user; receiving a request from the user to view a preview or replay of a part of the content; and switching the user to one of the other streams of content, which other stream is at the time difference that matches the requested preview or replay part of the content.
US08239901B2	Buffer control method, relay apparatus, and communication system Disclosed is a relay apparatus including a video buffer control unit that controls a video buffer according to a control instruction received by an instruction receiving unit, a threshold set by a threshold setting unit, and a timing set by a timing generation unit. The video buffer control unit controls the video buffer for each segment, according to a result of analysis by a segment interpretation unit.
US08239899B2	Method for reproducing data streams Method for reproducing data streams, in particular of broadcast data, comprising the steps of: receiving at least one receiving data stream (RDS); providing a reproducing data stream (PDS) on the basis of said receiving data stream (RDS) and/or of derivatives (D-RDS) thereof; reproducing said reproducing data stream (PDS); including into said reproducing data stream (PDS) and thereby reproducing at least parts (S2,1-S2,6) of a second data stream (DS2) and/or of derivatives (D-DS2) thereof instead of said receiving data stream (RDS) in response to a first control signal; and generating said derivatives (D-RDS) of at least parts (S1,1-S1,7) of said receiving data stream (RDS).
US08239898B2	Multimedia channel sharing across access network boundaries An initiating viewer identifies a multimedia channel and submits a request to share the multimedia channel with at least one recipient viewer at another viewer premises. This request is processed by the multimedia receiver of the initiating viewer so as to generate a channel change request for submission to a service provider. In response to the channel share request, the service provider queries the recipient viewer to determine whether the recipient viewer accepts or rejects the offered multimedia channel. If the recipient viewer accepts the multimedia channel, the multimedia channel can be provided to the multimedia receiver of the recipient viewer either for storage for later playback or for immediate playback concurrent with the provision of the multimedia channel to the initiating viewer. Billing for costs associated with the shared multimedia channel is conducted based on billing feedback provided by the initiating viewer.
US08239894B2	Electronic apparatus, display controlling method for electronic apparatus and graphical user interface A graphical user interface is disclosed which achieves an easy search for a desired item upon scrolling. A plurality of representation images individually representing different selection object items are displayed in an array along one direction of a display screen. A noticed representation image selected from among the representation images is displayed emphatically at a fixed position on the display screen, and explanation information of the noticed representation image is displayed in the proximity of the noticed representation image. If a scrolling information for the array of representation images is issued, then scrolling is executed such that explanation information also of the representation images other than the noticed representation image is displayed. Further, a bar display including a mark representing the position and the group of the noticed representation image in the array of representation images is displayed together.
US08239888B2	Advertising metrics system and method The present disclosure relates to a system and method for monitoring audio-video (AV) streams transported over a network. The system may include at least one AV probe configured for installation at a network node. The at least one AV probe may be configured to receive an incoming AV stream at a native frame rate and to capture at least one thumbnail of the incoming AV stream at a sampling rate which is less than the native frame rate to form a thumbnail stream. The at least one AV probe may be further configured to timestamp and transmit the thumbnail stream, and to forward the incoming AV stream substantially in real-time. The system may further include at least one monitoring engine operatively connected with the at least one AV probe, the at least one monitoring engine configured to receive the thumbnail stream, capture AV data from the thumbnail stream, and transform the AV data into a visual representation of AV stream quality of experience (QoE).
US08239885B2	Providing alternative content in a windowed environment Embodiments of the invention relate to an architecture or extension to a window manager. In particular, the extension can provide for a window rotation feature that can be exposed as a rotate button. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation feature can be activated based upon a diverse set of conditions, events, and/or commands. Upon activation of the rotation feature, the window manager can rotate a window about an axis to expose a secondary surface that can be populated with alternative content that is distinct from the content of the primary surface of the window. In addition, the architecture provides techniques for identifying both double-sided graphical objects and potentially double-sided objects.
US08239884B2	Apparatus, system, and method for isolating a storage application from a network interface driver An apparatus and system are provided for isolating a storage application from a network interface driver. The apparatus includes a definition module, an application interface, a translation module, and a data buffer. The definition module defines a set of storage application functions. The translation module translates each storage application function to one or more network interface driver functions. The data buffer transfers data blocks between the storage application and the network interface driver.
US08239879B2	Notification by task of completion of GSM operations at target node A method for providing global notification of completion of a global shared memory (GSM) operation during processing by a target task executing at a target node of a distributed system. The distributed system has at least one other node on which an initiating task that generated the GSM operation is homed. The target task receives the GSM operation from the initiating task, via a host fabric interface (HFI) window assigned to the target task. The task initiates execution of the GSM operation on the target node. The task detects completion of the execution of the GSM operation on the target node, and issues a global notification to at least the initiating task. The global notification indicates the completion of the execution of the GSM operation to one or more tasks of a single job distributed across multiple processing nodes.
US08239872B2	Method and system for controlling distribution of work items to threads in a server A system and method are presented to control distribution of work items to threads in a server. The system and method include a permit dispenser that keeps track of permits, and a plurality of thread pools each including a queue with a configurable size, being configured with a desired concurrency and a size of the queue that is equal to a total number of work items to be executed by pool threads in the thread pool. The number of permits specifies a total number of threads available for executing the work items in the server. Each pool thread executes a work item in the thread pool, determines whether a thread surplus or a thread deficit exists, and shrinks or grows the thread pool respectively.
US08239870B2	Scheduling execution of work units with policy based extension of long-term plan A solution for scheduling execution of jobs is proposed. In this case, a long-term plan expressed in terms of streams of jobs is created in advance (for example, for some months). An actual production plan (for a production period P(p) typically of one day) is then generated by extracting a corresponding portion of the long-term plan and expanding the streams into their jobs. In the proposed solution, a policy for the long-term plan is defined; for example, this policy specifies a minimum length L(min) and a maximum length L(max) of the long-term plan. The (remaining) length of the long-term plan is checked after each generation of the production plan; if the long-term plan is shorter than the minimum length L (min), it is expanded automatically up to the maximum length L(max).
US08239867B2	Method and apparatus for implementing atomic FIFO Techniques for implementing an atomic FIFO queue and system for processing queue elements are described herein. According to one embodiment, in a first thread of execution, new data is atomically merged with existing data of an object via an atomic instruction associated with hardware that executes the first thread. An attempt is made to acquire ownership of the object (exclusive access). If successful, the object is enqueued on an atomic FIFO queue as a continuation element for further processing. Otherwise, another thread of execution is safely assumed to have acquired ownership and taken responsibility to enqueue the object. A second thread of execution processes the atomic FIFO queue and assumes ownership of the continuation elements. The second thread invokes a function member of the continuation element with a data member of the continuation element, the data member including the newly merged data. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
US08239866B2	Reduction of memory latencies using fine grained parallelism and FIFO data structures Software rendering and fine grained parallelism are utilized to reduce/avoid memory latency in a multi-processor (MP) system. According to one embodiment, the management of the transfer of data from one processor to another in the MP environment is moved into a low overhead hardware system. The low overhead hardware system may be a FIFO (“First In First Out”) hardware control. Each FIFO may be real or virtual.
US08239859B2	Method, system, terminal and device management server for installing software components A method for installing software components includes: a terminal receives a software component package delivered by a Device Management (DM) server directly or a download address of the component package and a command instructing to download delivered by the DM server, where the software component package contains more than one software component; if the terminal receives the download address and the command instructing to download, the terminal downloads the software component package from the download address; the terminal installs the obtained software component package locally and generates management nodes and subnodes of the management nodes corresponding to the software components under a Deployed subtree of the Software Component Management Object (SCOMO) of the terminal. With the present invention, the process of installing software component is more reasonable. A system and apparatus for installing software components are also provided.
US08239858B2	Method and system for selecting a program for download A system selects an application program for download. The system includes a host system, such as a personal computer, having a disk sub-system storing a plurality of application programs. The disk sub-system includes a file storing a plurality of identifiers, with each of at least some of the identifiers being associated with one or more of the application programs. A target system, such as a wireless handheld electronic device, includes a hardware identifier and a vendor identifier. A communications channel connects the host system and the target system. An application loader routine executes at the host system, communicates with the target system through the communications channel, requests the hardware and vendor identifiers as a received identifier from the target system over the communication channel, and employs the identifiers and the received identifier to select one of the application programs for download from the host system to the target system.
US08239853B2	Method of displaying attachment file list in mobile communication terminal, method of downloading and uploading attachment file using e-mail protocol, and mobile communication terminal for performing the same A method of displaying an attachment file list in a mobile communication terminal comprises receiving a message, selecting an attachment file list view menu in order to check entire attachment files comprised in the message, and extracting the attachment files comprised in the message and then displaying a list of the extracted attachment files.
US08239839B2	Asynchrony debugging using web services interface A system and method for debugging a running process of an application or component is disclosed. A debugging client has a user interface for receiving user commands to configure and control a debugging program. A debugging agent is resident in a local network area with the running process and has a direct connection with the running process. The debugging agent is configured to execute the debugging program to obtain debugging information on the running process, and to send the debugging information to the debugging client. A Web services communication link is established between the debugging client and the debugging agent for communicating signals to the debugging agent from the debugging client representing the user commands to configure and control the debugging program.
US08239838B2	Kernel-aware debugging system, medium, and method A kernel-aware debugging system, medium, and method. The kernel-aware debugging system may include a kernel-aware debugging interface including a conditional breakpoint setting unit which sets a kernel-aware conditional breakpoint by checking a currently operating object inside a kernel of a target system when a central processing unit (CPU) of the target system stops operating at a particular position where the breakpoint is set and making the CPU proceed to operate when it is determined that it is not intended that the currently operating object be debugged. Moreover, the kernel-aware debugging interface may include a unit which stores control flow information for detecting faults due to asynchronous events, a profiling unit which collects profile information and allows back-tracing when faults occur, and a unit which debugs a synchronization problem between multitasks.
US08239827B2	System and method for prioritizing the compilation of bytecode modules during installation of a software application A system and method for compiling part of the bytecode for a software application into native code at install time when the software application is installed on a particular computer are described. According to one embodiment of the method, usage information for the software application may be received. The usage information may indicate how frequently or commonly each of a plurality of features of the software application is used. The usage information may be analyzed to determine a rank ordering of the features. The method may further comprise installing the software application on the particular computer. Installing the software application may comprise compiling one or more bytecode modules of the software application into native code, where the one or more bytecode modules are selected from a plurality of bytecode modules depending upon the rank ordering of the features.
US08239826B2	Automating modular manual tests including framework for test automation An automation framework for automation of modular scripts based on a method for automating a script step in a modular script is provided. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises preparing a software environment for automation; performing one or more user actions on a software product executing on a computer system, the actions being representative of the script step that is to be automated, while the computer system records the user actions such that the modularity of the modular script is retained and the script step is automated; and providing user input to the computer system indicating that all the user actions have been performed. The modular script may be a modular test script prescribing test script steps that test a software product. Script steps that are shared by a large number of modular scripts and that are affected by a change to a corresponding software product need to be re-automated or updated only once, leading to automatically updated modular scripts that share the updated script steps.
US08239825B2	Dynamic data restructuring method and system A data restructuring method and system. The method includes receiving by a computing system from a first user content data arranged in a first specified order and a command for tagging portions of the content data according to various parameters. The computing system assigns identification tags to the portions of the content data. The computing system presents the identification tags to the first user. The computing system receives from the first user, a selection of at least one of the identification tags. The computing system restructures the content data into a second specified order in response to the selection. The computing system receives a request for viewing the content data from a second user. The computing system presents to the second user, the content data in the second specified order.
US08239824B2	Developing a graphical data flow program with multiple models of computation in a web browser System and method for performing program-related operations over a network via a web browser. A network connection is established between a server computer and a client computer over a network. A universal resource identifier (URI) is sent from the client computer to the server computer over the network, where the URI indicates a program, e.g., a graphical program (GP), or at least a portion of a graphical program interactive development environment (GPIDE), e.g., a graphical program editor, an execution engine, a static or dynamic analyzer, and/or compiler. The at least a portion of the GPIDE is received from the server computer over the network in response to the URI, and executed in a web browser of the client computer to perform some specified functionality with respect to the GP.
US08239822B2	Symbolic forward and reverse differentiation The symbolic differentiation technique described herein uses operator overloading and two simple recursive procedures, both the forward and reverse forms of differentiation, to create purely symbolic derivatives. The symbolic derivative expressions can be translated into a program in an arbitrary source language, such as C# or C++, and this program can then be compiled to generate an efficient executable which eliminates much of the interpretive overhead normally encountered in automatic differentiation.
US08239821B2	System and method for creating and updating a data model from disparate events received on arbitrary application threads An abstract component model can be used to drive an editor by providing an underlying stateful model for component implementation without the need to re-implement details, such as event listening, lifecycle and update management, etc. An implementation needs to provide objects that make up the model, some logic to listen to environmental changes and recognize when an update is needed, and a builder which can generate a lightweight version of the model based on the current “state of the world.” In addition, abstract component model is operable to support an editor such as page flow.
US08239809B2	3-dimensional integrated circuit designing method A 3-dimensional integrated circuit designing method includes forming a temporary layout region for an original integrated circuit on an XY plane, the plane being short in an X direction and long in a Y direction perpendicular to the X direction, dividing the temporary layout region into 2N (N is an integral number of not smaller than 2) or more subregions in the Y direction, configuring one block for every successive N subregions to prepare a plurality of blocks, and forming N layers of layout by alternately folding each of the blocks in the Y direction in units of one subregion to selectively set a kN-th (k is an integral number not less than 1) subregion and (kN+1)th subregion of each block to one of an uppermost layer and lowermost layer.
US08239807B2	Method of making routable layout pattern using congestion table A method for generating a standard cell layout pattern for standard cell placement in an integrated circuit uses a congestion map. First, congestion zones are identified in a congestion map generated by an Electronic Design Automation (EDA) application. Next, routing tracks data corresponding to bounding boxes belonging to the congestion zones are used to calculate values of average vertical and horizontal congestion. Subsequently, a value of modified standard cell density is calculated based on the values of average vertical and horizontal congestion, and an unmodified standard cell density. The dimensions of a layout pattern unit are calculated using the value of the modified standard cell density and the width of standard cells. Various layout pattern units then are placed adjacent to one another to form a standard cell layout pattern.
US08239806B2	Routing system and method for double patterning technology A method includes receiving an identification of a plurality of circuit components to be included in an IC layout. Data are generated representing a first pattern to connect two of the circuit components. The first pattern has a plurality of segments. At least two of the segments have lengthwise directions perpendicular to each other. At least one pattern-free region is reserved adjacent to at least one of the at least two segments. Data are generated representing one or more additional patterns near the first pattern. None of the additional patterns is formed in the pattern-free region. The first pattern and the additional patterns form a double-patterning compliant set of patterns. The double-patterning compliant set of patterns are output to a machine readable storage medium to be read by a system for controlling a process to fabricate a pair of masks for patterning a semiconductor substrate using double patterning technology.

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