Document Document Title
US08298481B2 Method for sterilizing a plastic bottle
A method for sterilizing a plastic bottle in an aseptic filling system according to which at least an inner surface or an outer surface of a bottle is sterilized by injecting a heated sterilizing fluid at 65° C.-90° C. while maintaining internal pressure of the bottle at 1 kPa-20 kPa.
US08298479B2 Machined titanium connecting rod and process
A process for forming a remateable machined titanium powder base alloy connecting rod using a titanium alloy powder having an average particle size of about 1-20 microns, a mean aspect ratio of about 5 to 300, and a specific surface area of at least about 25 m2/g.
US08298477B2 Lance holder
A lance holder characterized by a high degree of safety is equipped with a mounting or a pipe fixing, which safely prevents a rotation even of a bent lance pipe in the lance holder. The clamping head has a fixing part and a clamping part which ensure a punctiform fixation by way of displaceable pressure elements, particularly in the form of spheres. At least three such spheres are disposed across the circumference in a distributed manner, and ensure the safe fixation across a large tolerance range with regard to the dimensions of lance pipes. Said large tolerance region is further secured in that sealing sleeves having a larger inside diameter may be used, since the same are no longer deformed in the longitudinal direction in order to provide the seal, but instead are deformed in the radial direction. In summary the high degree of operational safety is also completed by the association of a chip and/or attachment of a nanocoating.
US08298468B2 Isostatic pressing method for applying a silicon powder onto a silicon brick for silicon crystal growth in a mono-crystal or multi-crystal furnace
An isostatic pressing method for applying silicon powder as an original raw material for silicon crystal growth includes pressing silicon powder having a particle size of 0.1 to 1,000 micrometers into a silicon brick employing cold or hot isostatic pressing to provide a pressed silicon brick; and charging the pressed silicon brick into a furnace for silicon crystal growth. The furnace for silicon crystal growth may be a mono-crystal furnace for growing monocrystalline silicon or a multi-crystal furnace for growing polycrystalline silicon.
US08298467B2 Method of low temperature imprinting process with high pattern transfer yield
The present invention is directed to novel methods of imprinting substrate-supported or freestanding structures at low cost, with high pattern transfer yield, and using low processing temperature. Such methods overcome many of the above-described limitations of the prior art. Generally, such methods of the present invention employ a sacrificial layer of film.
US08298466B1 Method for fabricating medical devices with porous polymeric structures
Medical articles with porous polymeric structures and methods of forming thereof are disclosed. The porous structure can have pores sizes that are nanoporous or greater than nanoporous. The porous structure can be a coating or layer of a medical device such as a stent, stent graft, catheter, or lead for pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Additionally, the body of the medical device can be a porous polymeric structure. The porous structure can be made from bioabsorbable polymers. The porous structures can be formed by contacting a polymer with a supercritical fluid.
US08298465B2 Microporous film and method for producing the same
Provided is a microporous film which is made of a thermoplastic resin composition comprising (a) 100 parts by mass of a polypropylene resin and (b) 5 to 90 parts by mass of a polyphenylene ether resin, and which has a sea island structure comprising a sea portion comprising the polypropylene resin as a principal component and an island portion comprising the polyphenylene ether resin as a principal component, wherein pores are formed at an interface between the sea portion and the island portion and within the sea portion.
US08298454B2 Photosensitive resin composition and light blocking layer using the same
Disclosed are a photosensitive resin composition and a light blocking layer using the same. The photosensitive resin composition includes (A) a cardo-based monomer represented by the following Chemical Formula 1 or 2, wherein the substituents of Chemical Formula 1 and Chemical Formula 2 are the same as defined in the detailed description, (B) a cardo-based resin, (C) a reactive unsaturated compound, (D) a pigment, (E) an initiator, and (F) a solvent.
US08298453B2 Photochromic material
Photochromic dyes are disclosed. A photochromic dye can include a first photo-reactive group and a second photo-reactive group. A first photochromic reaction can be induced in the first photo-reactive group of the photochromic dye by radiation having a first wavelength, and a second photochromic reaction can be induced in the second photo-reactive group of the photochromic dye by radiation having a second wavelength.
US08298450B2 Polybenzimidazole-base complex, crosslinked material of polybenzoxazines formed thereof, and fuel cell using the same
A polybenzimidazole-base complex includes a polybenzimidazole-based material and a base, wherein a peak corresponding to NH of an imidazole ring of the polybenzimidazole-based material does not appear at a chemical shift of 12 to 15 ppm in a 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectrum of the polybenzimidazole-base complex. A crosslinked material may be formed as a polymerization product of a polybenzimidazole-base complex and a benzoxazine-based monomer. The crosslinked material may be used an electrolyte membrane for a fuel cell comprising the crosslinked material, and a fuel cell may include the electrolyte membrane.
US08298437B2 Alkali etching liquid for silicon wafer and etching method using same
An alkali etching liquid for a silicon wafer that includes an aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide, and from 0.1 g/L to 0.5 g/L of diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid. Furthermore, the Fe concentration of the aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide is no more than 50 ppb. An etching method that including a step of etching a silicon wafer with a resistivity of no more than 1 Ω·cm using the etching liquid.
US08298434B2 Method of forming an electrode including an electrochemical catalyst layer
A method of forming an electrode having an electrochemical catalyst layer is disclosed. The method includes etching a surface of a substrate, followed by immersing the substrate in a solution containing surfactants to form a conditioner layer on the surface of the substrate, and immersing the substrate in a solution containing polymer-capped noble metal nanoclusters dispersed therein to form a polymer-protected electrochemical catalyst layer on the conditioner layer.
US08298433B2 Methods for removing an edge polymer from a substrate
A method for generating plasma for removing an edge polymer from a substrate is provided. The method includes providing a powered electrode assembly, which includes a powered electrode, a dielectric layer, and a wire mesh disposed between the powered electrode and the dielectric layer. The method also includes providing a grounded electrode assembly disposed opposite the powered electrode assembly to form a cavity wherein the plasma is generated. The wire mesh is shielded from the plasma by the dielectric layer when the plasma is present in the cavity, which has an outlet at one end for providing the plasma to remove the edge polymer. The method further includes introducing at least one inert gas and at least one process gas into the cavity. The method yet also includes applying an RF field to the cavity using the powered electrode to generate the plasma from the inert gas and process gas.
US08298429B2 Apparatus for treating a waste stream
An integrated unit operations for the treatment of a waste stream, such as spent caustic, is provided in a single vertical vessel having at least three separate zones: a mixing, a settling, and a mass transfer zone.
US08298426B1 Method of treating a liquid by counter current supersaturation oxygenation
A counter current supersaturation oxygenation method includes an apparatus, which includes a down flow tube, an upflow tube and a gas diffuser. The gas diffuser preferably includes a porous tube and a support frame. The porous tube is preferably wrapped in a spiral from a bottom of the support frame to a top of the support frame. A non-porous gas supply hose is connected to the porous tube. The gas diffuser is suspended inside the down flow tube at substantially a bottom thereof. One end of the upflow tube is connected to substantially a bottom of the down flow tube. A second embodiment of the apparatus preferably includes a down flow tube, the gas diffuser and a buoyant platform. A stream of liquid becomes oxygenated by passing down the down flow tube. The oxygenated liquid may flow up the upflow tube or down to any appropriate destination.
US08298425B2 Method of staggered release or exposure of microorganisms for biological remediation of hydrocarbons and other organic matter
A methodology, and related systems and structures for accomplishing the methodology, of biological remediation of hazardous or undesirable organic matter, wherein a plurality of carrier members are disposed in a localized retaining member, the carrier members releasing or exposing microorganisms to the undesirable organic matter on a staggered basis over an extended period of time, the microorganisms being capable of biologically remediating the undesirable organic matter by utilizing the organic matter as a food source, thereby converting it into environmentally safe bi-products. Carrier members containing nutrients necessary for the survival of the microorganisms and having release times corresponding to the release times of the microorganisms are also provided to insure that the microorganisms remain viable upon release.
US08298423B1 Periphyton filtration system for a roof and associated methods
A floway system for a building roof includes a substrate for supporting a periphyton culture that removes nutrient pollution from surface water and isolates the building envelope from solar-induced heat. The substrate is seedable to form a floway. a harvester for harvesting periphyton from the substrate. Water desired to be bioremediated is channeled to an inlet of the periphyton culture. A gutter system includes a sector for collecting cleansed water from an outlet of the periphyton culture having a drain for permitting water to be emptied therefrom and a sector for collecting periphyton harvested from the substrate therein. An element is provided for directing material exiting the periphyton culture outlet selectively between the water-collecting sector and the periphyton-collecting sector.
US08298418B2 Method and installation for bringing ozone into contact with a flow of liquid, in particular a flow of drinking water or wastewater
Method for bringing ozone into contact with a flow of liquid in which a fraction of the liquid flow is tapped off, a carrier gas laden with ozone is injected into the tapped-off flow, forming gas bubbles, the gas bubbles and the liquid are mixed so as to form a two-phase tapped-off flow, and the tapped-off flow is reintroduced into a descending vertical stream of the main liquid flow, this vertical stream undergoing, at the bottom, a change of direction to essentially the horizontal, the reintroduction of the tapped-off flow being carried out at the lower end of an injection tube immersed in the descending vertical stream of the main flow. The descending vertical stream (3a) forms a continuous liquid column, static mixing is provided in the injection tube (16) as far as the vicinity of its outlet, and the two-phase tapped-off flow is reintroduced into the descending vertical stream (3a) in the form of at least one jet having a vertically downward velocity component, this reintroduction taking place below a height (H) of liquid and with a vertically downward velocity component that are sufficient for the gas bubbles to be entrained downwards, without rising.
US08298416B2 Apparatus for deodorizing sewage treatment plant sludge by using native microorganisms
The present invention relates to a deodorizing apparatus using native microorganisms. Specifically, the present invention relates to a deodorizing apparatus using native microorganisms for removal of malodors of sewage treatment plant sludge, comprising a native microorganism activating tank, where a colony of the native microorganisms in a spore state is germinated and activated through a proliferation process under conditions where oxygen and organic materials are supplied, and the native microorganisms returned from a second deodorizing tank is further activated; and a first and a second deodorizing tanks which remove malodorants from untreated matter under conditions where oxygen and the activated native microorganisms are continuously supplied. The deodorizing apparatus of the present invention, which is an eco-friendly and economical method using native microorganisms, can effectively remove malodor generated from various types of sludge including a primary sludge, a secondary sludge, a sludge containing night soil, etc. produced from sewage treatment plants.
US08298415B2 Wastewater treatment ship
A wastewater treatment ship is provided which is capable of purifying and treating oil bearing wastewater collected from a ship or the sea, wastewater such as domestic water and of reusing the purified water on the ship and easily discharging it. The wastewater treatment ship has a hull able to navigate by being towed or being self-propelled and a purification treatment unit disposed on the hull and configured to collect, purify, and treat wastewater. The purification treatment unit includes a floated oil collecting tank to collect floated oil collected from raw wastewater tank, a stirring tank having a cylindrical straight drum and a funnel-shaped bottom to stir wastewater taken out from the raw wastewater tank together with a coagulant and a collecting path to discharge precipitates, a plurality of filter treatment tanks to be used in multistage filtering treatment of wastewater in the stirring tank, and purified water tanks.
US08298413B2 Multi-component, simultaneous, independent multi-gradient system for liquid chromatography
Systems and methods for separating charged molecules on the basis of their differential electrostatic binding to a charged stationary phase comprise controlling the creation of simultaneous independent or dependent pH and additive gradients.
US08298411B2 System and method for reducing pollution in a body of water
A system and method reducing pollution in a body of water using biological processes is provided. The system includes a hydraulic dam generated by an induced downwelling of effluent water from a plurality of water circulating devices. A series of linearly arranged treatment sub-systems are disposed upstream of the hydraulic dam. The treatment sub-systems include a water sterilization sub-system for neutralizing harmful and undesirable micro-organisms using an ultrasonic energy generating unit. The ultrasonic energy generated, is of a frequency that disrupts cellular structures in targeted micro-organisms.
US08298410B2 Filter and sterilization apparatus
A filter- and sterilizing apparatus comprising a gravity filter device with a liquid supply (L1), a downpipe filter (F) and a clean liquid drainage (L3) as well as a sterilizing device (U) hydraulically connected to the downpipe filter, is characterized in that the sterilizing device connected to the clean liquid circuit (L3) of the downpipe filter (F), is adjustable in height and has the shape of a supply channel to the overflow weir (Y), wherein the liquid level in the supply channel (K) before starting the filtration is approximately adjustable to the same height with the water level in the downpipe filter (F) above the filter medium (M). The sterilizing device (U) is an ultraviolet sluice.
US08298408B2 Filtering device for filtering water and liquids in general
A filtering device for filtering water and liquids in general comprises a first reservoir for collecting the water to be filtered, a second reservoir for collecting the filtered water, which reservoir is supplied by falling from the first reservoir, a conduit which extends from the first reservoir into the second reservoir, a cartridge type filtering element which is removably received in the conduit, a discharge hole for the filtered water that is positioned between the conduit and the second reservoir, and at least one opening for access to the cartridge provided at an end of the conduit that is distal from the first reservoir in order to promote the removal thereof. The device comprises an at least partial closure which can be removably fitted to the conduit in the region of the opening for access to the cartridge and comprises a flow adjuster which is associated with the conduit in order to adjust the flow of water flowing from the first reservoir to the second reservoir through the discharge hole.
US08298407B1 Gas vent
Embodiments of the Gas Vent are comprised of a horizontal float assembly, and a vertical gas valve assembly. The horizontal float assembly is connected via a fluid connection to a surge tank or any other connection to the overall gas processing system. The horizontal float assembly is comprised of a housing; a horizontal float; a flange; a sight glass; one or more sight glass valves; a horizontal float lever arm; a vertical valve hinge arm, and a hinge. The housing of the horizontal float assembly is essentially a large hollow process vessel with various openings and fittings formed by the housing to accept the various devices and. The horizontal float is a large, hollow vessel that partially floats on top of any liquid contained within the horizontal float assembly. As the horizontal float rises and falls in conjunction allowing gas to vent as it is accumulated.
US08298402B2 Additives for improving the cold flowability and lubricity of fuel oils
The present invention relates to alkylphenol-aldehyde resins containing oligo- or polymers having a repeat structural unit of the formula where R1 is a branched alkyl or alkenyl radical which has from 10 to 40 carbon atoms and bears at least one carboxyl, carboxylate and/or ester group, R2 is hydrogen or R1 R3 is hydrogen or an alkoxy group of the formula -(A-O)m—H, A is a C2- to C4-alkylene group, m is from 1 to 100, R4 is hydrogen, a C1- to C11-alkyl radicals or a carboxyl group, R5 is C1-C200-alkyl or -alkenyl, O—R6 or O—C(O)—R6, R6 is C1-C200-alkyl or -alkenyl, n is from 1 to 100 and k is 1 or 2.
US08298396B2 Process and apparatus for the production and separation of fermentation products
The invention is directed to processes and apparatuses for the production of chemical compounds, in particular fermentation products. According to the invention there is provided a process for the production of one or more chemical substances, which process comprises a fermentation step, wherein said substances are formed; and a separation step, wherein at least one pair of electrodes is used to induce a precipitation of said substances, which pair comprises at least one precipitation electrode and at least one counter electrode, through which an electric current is directed is used to precipitate said one or more substances.
US08298394B2 Non-gel based two-dimensional protein separation multi-channel devices
Provided is a multi-channel apparatus for non-gel based two-dimensional protein separation. One or more flat channels are arranged in parallel and have an isoelectric focusing section for primarily separating proteins from protein samples according to isoelectric point (pI) and a flow field-flow fractionation section for secondarily separating the primarily separated proteins according to molecular weight, thereby making it possible to simultaneously separate the proteins in multiple channels, to increase a protein separation speed, and to overcome limitation to sample injection due to an increase in channel volume. The apparatus can separate the proteins according to pI and molecular weight, be safe from denaturation of the protein in the process of protein separation, automatically remove an ampholyte used for pI-based separation, and separately detecting the separated proteins to identify the proteins using nanoflow liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS-MS).
US08298391B2 Amperometric sensor
An amperometric sensor includes a first electrode, a second electrode and a reference electrode. The sensor further includes a switch to selectably electrically connect the first electrode as a working electrode and to electrically connecting the second electrode as an auxiliary electrode during a first time interval. During a second time interval, the switch electrically connects the first electrode as the auxiliary electrode and electrically connects the second electrode as the working electrode. The switching of the two electrodes is repeated continuously as amperometric measurements are performed. Preferably, the sensor includes an ultrasonic transducer proximate the working electrode and the auxiliary electrode to clean the electrodes.
US08298390B2 Electrochemical probes for corrosion monitoring in hydrogen sulfide systems and methods of avoiding the effect of electron-conducting deposits
Electrochemical probes for corrosion monitoring in an environment that may cause the formation of electron-conducting deposits and the method for making such probes were described. The probes have long exposed electrodes. Except for the tip section, all surfaces of the exposed electrodes are coated with a coating or covered with electrically insulating tubing, so that only the tip section has uncovered metal that serves as the active areas of the electrodes. The coating or tubing material is such that the deposits cannot easily form on its surfaces. Because the electrical bridging between the active areas of any two electrodes requires the deposition of an evenly distributed layer of the electron-conducting deposits along the path from one area to the other area, the coated surface reduces the possibility of short-circuiting for the active areas of the electrodes. These probes are especially suitable for applications in systems containing hydrogen sulphide (H2S).
US08298388B2 Transition metal complexes with (pyridyl)imidazole ligands
Novel transition metal complexes of iron, cobalt, ruthenium, osmium, and vanadium are described. The transition metal complexes can be used as redox mediators in enzyme-based electrochemical sensors. The transition metal complexes include substituted or unsubstituted (pyridyl)imidazole ligands. Transition metal complexes attached to polymeric backbones are also described.
US08298387B2 Reactive oxygen species measuring device
A reactive oxygen species measuring device according to the present invention comprises a reactive oxygen species sensor provided with an electrode assembly capable of detecting the presence of reactive oxygen species or the like in terms of an electric current, a power source means for applying a measuring voltage to the reactive oxygen species sensor, and a reactive oxygen species concentration measuring means for measuring a concentration of the reactive oxygen species or the like from the current detected by the reactive oxygen species sensor. According to the present invention, a concentration of reactive oxygen species or the like such as in vivo or in vitro superoxide anion radical (O2−.) can be measured reliably, and the entire device can be formed in a smaller size and always mounted to a living body.
US08298384B2 Method and apparatus for plating metal parts
A method and apparatus for plating parts like lug nuts or other metal parts that have both an easily plated outside surface as well as a recessed cavity. The invention works in combination with a standard multi-station plating process. Also, a method and apparatus for preventing areas of electrode contact on a part from being non-plated. The present invention drains and plates a part containing a cavity by moving the part from a position where the cavity is facing around 45 degrees down to a position where the cavity is facing around 45 degrees up and then back down at various times during the process. The moving is generally initiated when the rack moving along a track above the fluid tanks encounters a roller. The roller causes a depression bar to activate a mechanical mechanism that shifts the position of the part. Other embodiments of the present invention can also rotate the part on an electrode finger as a roller on the track is encountered by the rack to avoid non-plated regions on the part.
US08298382B2 Apparatus for use with metallic structures
Apparatus for connection to a metallic structure, the apparatus comprises a transformer rectifier unit operable to output a DC current for cathodic protection of a metallic structure, and a modulator unit connected to receive a DC output from the transformer rectifier unit. The modulator unit is arranged for connection to a metallic structure, and is operable to produce a modulated current which is applied to such a metallic structure when the apparatus is in use, such that the metallic structure is detectable by a wireless locating device. The modulator unit is operable to be controlled remotely.
US08298379B2 Method and apparatus for extending chamber component life in a substrate processing system
A chamber component for a substrate processing system is described. The chamber component comprises a primary member, and a deposit absorbing member coupled to the primary member, wherein the deposit absorbing member comprises a porous material configured to absorb material that is deposited on a surface thereof.
US08298371B2 Plasma processing apparatus
A plasma processing apparatus includes a processing chamber, a first electrode and a second electrode disposed to face each other, a high frequency power supply unit for applying a high frequency power to either the first electrode or the second electrode, a processing gas supply unit for supplying a processing gas to a processing space, and a main dielectric member provided at a substrate mounting portion on a main surface of the first electrode. A focus ring is attached to the first electrode to cover a peripheral portion of the main surface of the first electrode and a peripheral dielectric member is provided in a peripheral portion on the main surface of the first electrode so that an electrostatic capacitance per unit area applied between the first electrode and the focus ring is smaller than that applied between the first electrode and the substrate by the main dielectric member.
US08298369B2 Liquid supply method, liquid supply apparatus, substrate polishing apparatus, and method of measuring supply flow rate of liquid
A liquid supply apparatus is to supply a polishing liquid from a polishing supply source onto a polishing surface of a polishing table at a predetermined flow rate. The liquid supply apparatus according to the present invention includes at least one supply tube for retaining the liquid supplied from the liquid supply source, an electropneumatic regulator for supplying a pressurized gas from a gas source to the supply tube, and a pipe having no narrow portion for controlling a flow rate of the liquid. The supply tube is vertically disposed. The pressurized gas supply mechanism is operable to supply the pressurized gas to the supply tube so as to supply the liquid, filling the supply tube, to the polishing surface of the polishing table via the pipe and a polishing liquid supply pipe.
US08298365B2 Sticking method and sticking apparatus
A sticking method for sticking a support plate onto a substrate in such a way that the support plate can be removed in quickly and easily is provided. The sticking method according to the present invention includes the step of sticking a support plate 3 onto a wafer 2 via a first adhesive layer 4 provided on the wafer 2, a separate film 5 provided on the first adhesive layer 4, and a second adhesive layer 6, provided on the separation film layer 5, which either is higher in rate of dissolution in a solution than the first adhesive layer 4 or dissolves in a solvent different from the solvent in which the first adhesive layer 4 dissolves.
US08298364B2 Methods of manufacturing paint roller covers from a tubular fabric sleeve
A method of manufacturing paint roller covers is disclosed in which the paint roller covers are manufactured from a seamless, tubular fabric sleeve knitted in a pile side-in manner and including at least one of a backing material and a pile made, at least in part, from a low melt fiber or yarn component. The seamless, tubular fabric sleeve is inverted to a pile side-out configuration, placed onto a cylindrical member, and heat is applied to cause the low melt fiber or yarn in the backing and/or looped ends of the pile to be activated and to closely conform to the size of the cylindrical member, thereby causing the melted and fused together, re-hardened low melt component of the seamless, tubular fabric sleeve to remain in a cylindrical configuration, forming an integrally formed core member.
US08298363B2 Method of manufacturing solar cell module
A manufacturing method of a solar module according the embodiment includes a step A of disposing one of the wiring members 11 on the light receiving surface of one solar cell of n solar cells, with a thermosetting resin adhesive 12 interposed therebetween, the wiring member being to be connected to a solar cell adjacently located on one side of the one solar cell, and disposing another one of the wiring members 11 on the back surface of the one solar cell with the resin adhesive 12 interposed therebetween, the wiring member 11 being to be connected to a solar cell 10 adjacently located on the other side of the one solar cell; a step B of bonding the wiring members 11 to the one solar cell by heating the resin adhesive 12 at a temperature higher than a softening temperature of the resin adhesive 12 but lower than a hardening temperature of the resin adhesive 12; a step C of bonding the wiring members 11 to all the n solar cells by repeating the step A and the step B alternately; and a step D of hardening the resin adhesive 12 by heating the resin adhesive 12 at a temperature equal to or higher than the hardening temperature of the resin adhesive 12 with the resin adhesive 12 being pressed against the wiring members 11.
US08298361B2 Postage label dispenser for dispensing application ready/lined labels including a re-lining station facilitating the fabrication of lined labels
A postage label dispensing system for dispensing adhesive-backed postage labels comprising (i) a means for stripping the adhesive-backed face material from the liner material of a label material, (ii) a first cutting apparatus, downstream of the stripping means, for cutting the face material to a desired length and producing an adhesive backed postage label having a postage indicia printed thereon, (iii) a means for attaching re-lining material to the adhesive backed postage label (iv) a second cutting apparatus, downstream of the lining means, for cutting the re-lining material to dispense at least one lined postage label, and (v) a processor for controlling the operation of the first and second cutting apparatus. A deflector guide is disposed between the stripping and re-lining means and is re-positionable to engage and disengage the adhesive backed postage labels produced by the upstream stripping station. In the engaged position, the postage labels are directed to the re-lining station and dispensed as a lined label. In the disengaged position, the postage labels are dispensed as application ready labels.
US08298360B2 Process for obtaining pipes and joints from a polymer composite
A process for obtaining pipes and connections from a polymeric composite is provided. An internal pipe is formed using a fiberglass and epoxy resin matrix. Made in a mold by filament winding a roving wire, the internal pipe is impregnated with epoxy resin and catalyzed with a heat curing agent. The pipe extremities are formed through a mold using a composite of epoxy resin and carbon fiber base. The external face of the internal layer is sanded. A second layer is formed by filament winding a roving wire, impregnated with polyester resin with an added silica base, and catalyzed with cold-cured cobalt and polyester. Charge is added to the silica base. The polyester resin is deposited in an intercalated manner between the layers of winding filament. A third layer of polyurethane is deposited over the second layer and cold cured.
US08298358B1 Ignitable heterogeneous structures and methods for forming
A metastable intermolecular composite (MIC) and methods for forming the same includes a first material and a second material having an interfacial region therebetween. The first and second material are capable of an exothermic chemical reaction with one another to form at least one product and are in sufficiently close physical proximity to one another so that upon initiation the exothermic reaction develops into a self initiating reaction. At least one of said first and second materials include a metal that is reactive with water vapor at room temperature. The interfacial region averages <2 nm thick, such as <1 nm thick. In one embodiment, the first material is Al and the second material is CuOx.
US08298356B2 Ultrahigh-strength steel sheet excellent in hydrogen embrittlement resistance and workability, and manufacturing method therefor
The ultrahigh-strength steel sheet contains, in mass %, C: 0.05-0.25%, Si: 1.00-2.5%, Mn: 2.0-4.0%, P: 0.1% or below (not inclusive of 0%), S: 0.05% or below (not inclusive of 0%), Al: 0.01-0.15%, Ti: 0.003-0.10%, N: 0.01% or below (not inclusive of 0%), the balance comprising iron with inevitable impurities, and is a composite structure steel sheet comprising 10-50 area % ferrite and 50 area % or above martensite, in which the average circle-equivalent grain diameter of ferrite grains is 2.0 μm or below, the average aspect ratio of ferrite grains is 2.0 or below, and the tensile strength is 1,100 MPa or above. Accordingly, the ultrahigh-strength steel sheet is excellent in hydrogen embrittlement resistance and workability.
US08298354B2 Corrosion and heat resistant metal alloy for molding die and a die therewith
It is found that alloys including amorphous phase comprising at least a first element selected from the group consisting of Pt and Ru, at least a second element selected from the group consisting of Zr, Hf, Si, Ir, Ru, Pd and Ni, and at least a third element selected from the group consisting of Si, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mo, Co, Al, Zr, Hf, Ni and Ru have excellent machining characteristics, heat-resistant characteristics, corrosion resistance and adhesion resistance. Using the alloys as the molding surface of a die, a heat resistant molding die for forming glass optical device having fine structure for performing high definite functions became possible to manufacture with excellent machining characteristics.
US08298349B2 Rotating fluid nozzle for tube cleaning system
A fluid nozzle for use in a high pressure water jetting system includes a housing to be fixed to a source of high pressure water. The housing receives a rotating member and an inner peripheral bore. The rotating member includes a shaft received within the housing, and a nozzle extending outwardly of the housing, the nozzle having openings extending along a direction having a component both forwardly along an axis of rotation of the shaft and the nozzle, and radially outwardly relative to the central axis. A central passage within the shaft communicates high pressure fluid to the nozzle. The shaft includes leakage paths to provide leakage fluid from the central passage to an interface between an outer peripheral wall of the shaft and an inner peripheral wall of the bore in the housing. The leakage paths communicate fluid to a forward fluid pressure chamber, and to a rearward fluid pressure chamber. A pressure loss to the rearward fluid pressure chamber is greater than a pressure drop at the forward pressure chamber.
US08298347B2 Method and apparatus for cleaning a substantially vertical surface
A method of and apparatus for cleaning a surface, such as a wall of a waste boiler of a Kivcet furnace, are described. The invention comprises suspending a pair of spaced apart cables adjacent a surface to be cleaned, attaching ends of the rail to respective ones of the cables with equal lengths of cable between the rail and the roof, the rail being reversibly moveable up and down the surface. A carriage has a nozzle assembly, operative to emit a jet of water, with the carriage reversibly moveable along the rail. The rail is moved from one of a top and bottom of the surface to another of the top and bottom of the surface, and the carriage is moved from one side of the rail to another, cleaning the surface as it moves. The foregoing steps are repeated for each remaining uncleaned surface.
US08298344B2 Method of processing workpieces using a vessel with a low pressure space surrounding a processing space for the purpose of preventing the leakage of atmosphere into the processing space
A lid 81 included in a processing vessel 30 is held by a simple mechanism to prevent the leakage of an atmosphere in a processing space 83 formed in the processing vessel 30 into an environmental space. A low-pressure space 84 surrounds the processing space 83 formed in the processing vessel 30. The processing vessel 30 is provided with a first sealing member 101 sealing a joint between a part of a vessel body 80 and a part of the lid 81 to separate the low-pressure apace 84 from the processing space 83, and a second sealing member 102 sealing a joint between a part of the vessel body 80 and a part of the lid 81 on the outer side of the first sealing member 101 to separate the low-pressure space from an external space surrounding the processing vessel 30. Pressure in the low-pressure space 84 is adjusted such that pressure in the processing space 83 is equal to or lower than pressure in the external space outside the processing vessel 30 in an internal leakage state where the first sealing member 101 permits leakage and the second sealing member 102 is in a sealing condition.
US08298343B2 Method and apparatus for removing ice accumulations on power lines
A method and apparatus for removing ice from overhead utility power lines which includes a tool having an extendable pole with an ice removing roller having an annular outer channel rotatably supported on the pole. The pole is extendable for enabling a user to place the roller over an ice-laden utility power line while standing on the ground, and then is movable along the power line by the workmen while standing on the ground or walking along a line parallel to the power line for removing ice from the line.
US08298339B2 Roll-to-roll continuous thin film PV manufacturing process and equipment with real time online IV measurement
Apparatuses and methods are provided for the continuous, roll-to-roll formation of photovoltaic (PV) cells. Apparatuses include reel-to-reel transport chambers, one or more deposition chambers, a differential process isolation unit and a chamber for obtaining real time quality data, including IV data, yield data and uniformity data.
US08298331B2 Zeolite and water slurries for asphalt concrete pavement
Embodiments provide slurries of water and zeolite. These slurries have beneficial properties when mixed with asphalt. These beneficial properties may include extension of the asphalt as well as a decrease in the temperature used to process the cement. In some embodiments additional additives are included, such as anti-strip amines. Methods of making and using the slurries, as well as cement mixtures incorporating the slurries are also included herein.
US08298324B2 Lead-free primary explosive composition
Embodiments of the present subject matter provide a compound and material that may be used as a lead-free primary explosive. An embodiment of the present subject matter provides the compound copper(I) nitrotetrazolate. Certain embodiments of the present subject matter provide methods for preparing lead-free primary explosives. The method includes: providing cuprous salt; providing water; providing 5-nitrotetrazolate salt; combining the cuprous salt, water and 5-nitrotetrazolate salt to form a mixture; and heating the mixture. The method may also include providing cuprous chloride and providing sodium 5-nitrotetrazolate. Certain embodiments of the present subject matter also provide methods for preparing copper(I) nitrotetrazolate. The method includes: providing cuprous salt; providing water; providing 5-nitrotetrazolate salt; combining the cuprous salt, water and 5-nitrotetrazolate salt to form a mixture; and heating the mixture. The method may also include providing cuprous chloride and providing sodium 5-nitrotetrazolate.
US08298321B2 River water utilizing flue gas desulfurization system and humic substance removing method
A river water utilizing flue gas desulfurization system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a pre-treatment facility 13 that removes humic substances in river water 11 to produce makeup water 12; and a desulfurization apparatus 17 that brings sulfur content in flue gas 15 into contact with limestone gypsum slurry 16 in an apparatus body 14. The pre-treatment facility 13 includes a flocculant mixing basin 22 in which a flocculant 21 is added to the river water 11 to flocculate and remove the humic substances contained in the river water 11; and an activated carbon absorption unit 23 in which the humic substances contained in the river water 11 are absorbed and removed by way of activated carbon.
US08298320B2 Systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same
Preferred embodiments of the invention relate to systems for removing dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. The systems include adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies.
US08298312B2 Device and method for composting
A composter device is provided including a mixer and a grinder commonly driven and commonly located in a composting chamber of the device. A large opening at the top of the composting chamber permits large objects to be inserted into the chamber to permit the object to be ground and left to decompose to produce compost material in the same chamber. The grinder includes grinding elements arranged to produce a shearing action while the mixer includes an auger to produce a churning action when the ground matter requires periodic mixing during the decomposition process to produce compost.
US08298311B2 Filters with controlled submicron porosity
Porous ceramic honeycomb bodies and methods of making them, wherein the ceramic body has a total porosity (% P) defined by a median pore size (d50) greater than or equal to 10 microns; a pore size distribution d-factor less than 0.8, wherein d-factor=(d50−d10)/d50, and a submicron pore fraction characterized by less than 5% of the total porosity being comprised of pores having a pore diameter less than 1.0 micron.
US08298309B2 Liquid separator and tank system comprising a liquid separator
A liquid separator for separating a liquid from a gas flow comprising a housing (1) includes a baffle plate (4) provided between an upper housing portion (1A) and a lower housing portion (1B). The baffle plate prevents liquid contained in the gas flow from escaping from the liquid separator. Liquid separated at the baffle plate (4) is returned to the inlet (2) of the liquid separator.
US08298306B2 Process for improved gasification of fuel solids
The invention provides a process that comminutes fuel solids in a steam-driven shear field, with controlled water content and catalyst, with gasification of the particles entrained in the vented steam. Unlike conventional gasification methods the invention requires no dioxygen to be present, and produces dry friable ash that has significant marketable value as a material in its own right.
US08298305B2 Hydrogen production system and method of controlling flow rate of offgas in the system
A hydrogen manufacturing system for performing offgas flow control includes: a vaporizer (1) for heating a material mixture containing a hydrocarbon material; a reforming reactor (2) for generating hydrogen-containing reformed gas by reforming reactions of the material; a PSA separator (5) for repeating a cycle of adsorption and desorption, where in the adsorption PSA separation is performed with an adsorption tower loaded with an adsorbent to adsorb unnecessary components in the reformed gas and extract hydrogen-enriched gas out of the tower, and in the desorption the offgas containing the unnecessary components from the adsorbent and remaining hydrogen is discharged from the tower; and a buffer tank (6) for holding the offgas before supplying to the vaporizer. The offgas flow supply from the tank (6) to the vaporizer is changed continuously over time when the cycle time is changed according to load change on the separator (5).
US08298303B2 Use of polyoxymethylene di (alkyl polyglycol) ethers as additives to diesel fuels to reduce the particulate emission in self-ignition engines
The use of polyoxymethylene di(alkyl polyglycol) ethers of the general formula RO(CH2CH2O)n(CH2O)m(CH2CH2O)nR is described, wherein R is an alkyl radical, n is ≦3 and m is ≦6, as additives to diesel fuels to reduce the particulate emission in self-ignition engines.
US08298302B2 Fuel additives
The invention provides a fuel additive compound represented by the general formula (I) wherein n is zero or an integer from 1 to 20 and in each succinic acid moiety one of R1 and R3 is a C3-C80 internal olefin moiety, and the other of R1 and R3 is hydrogen. Additive compositions containing such compounds have low viscosity and are useful in increasing the lubricity of middle distillate fuels.
US08298301B2 Method and device for producing a maintenance-free battery having a fixed electrolyte
The invention relates to a method and a device for producing an accumulator having a fixed electrolyte. The inventive method is characterized by introducing an electrolyte in a flowable form into the accumulator cell and fixing the electrolyte and forming the active mass simultaneously inside the accumulator cell. The device for carrying out the inventive method comprises a filler head (1), an acid reservoir (3), a thickener reservoir (4), a metering pump for the acid (6.1+6.2), a metering pump for the thickener (5.1+5.2) and a flowmeter for the thickener (9.1+9.2) and the acid (10.1+10.2).
US08298300B2 Process for continuous production of large crystal products
The invention relates to a continuous process for preparing large crystal products of a crystalline product in a fluid bed crystallizer, said fluid bed crystallizer comprising a crystallization vessel and means for mechanically impacting of crystals; and connected to the crystallization vessel (i) a feed line; (ii) an external circulation circuit comprising means for determining properties of the slurry in the external circulation circuit and a heat exchanger; and (iii) a product withdrawal line, wherein—for any specific crystalline product and at any flow rate chosen in the external circulation circuit—the weight percentage of crystals of the crystalline product in the slurry in the external circulation circuit, ECCWPC, is controlled by said means for determining properties of the slurry within a specified and predetermined narrow range having a maximum and minimum value not more apart than at most 25% by weight and falling within the range of from 1 to 50% by weight. Preferably, the crystalline product is ammonium sulphate, and the ECCWPC is controlled within a range of from 3 to 20% by weight, preferably of from 5 to 15% by weight, more preferably of from 8 to 12% by weight. The product obtained may be further subjected to size classification by screening.
US08298299B2 Azo pigment or tautomer thereof, process for producing same, pigment dispersion, coloring composition, inkjet recording ink, coloring composition for color filter, and color filter
An azo pigment selected from the group consisting of: an azo pigment represented by the following formula (1), which has: a characteristic X-ray diffraction peak at Bragg angles (2θ±0.2°) of 6.9°, 21.5°, and 27.3° in CuKα characteristic X-ray diffraction, a peak height at 11.9° of 0.6 or less relative to a peak height at 10.9° or a tautomer thereof, or a salt, hydrate, or solvate of the azo pigment or tautomer thereof; and an azo pigment represented by the following formula (1), which has: a characteristic X-ray diffraction peak at Bragg angles (2θ±0.2°) of 6.9°, 25.8°, and 27.1° in CuKα characteristic X-ray diffraction, a peak height at 10.9° of 0.2 or less relative to a peak height at 11.9° or a tautomer thereof, or a salt, hydrate, or solvate of the azo pigment or tautomer thereof.
US08298297B2 Hair-treatment composition and hair-treatment method using same
Provided is a hair-treatment composition containing an amphoteric surfactant having a structure represented by general formula (1) below, and a sugar nonionic surfactant. In general formula (1), R1 represents an alkyl group the carbon number of which is 6 to 20; R2 represents a methyl group, an ethyl group, or a hydroxyethyl group; R3 represents a methyl group, an ethyl group, or a —CH2COOH group; and n is an integer from 1 to 3.
US08298295B2 Theft-deterrence method and apparatus for processor based devices
A manageability engine of a processor based device and a host theft-deterrence agent of the processor based device, jointly implement a theft-deterrence protocol with a theft-deterrence service, remotely disposed from the processor based device, to deter theft of the processor based device. The host theft-deterrence agent is configured to operate in a processor operated application execution environment of the processor based device, and the manageability engine is configured to operate outside the application execution environment.
US08298293B2 Prosthetic sensing systems and methods
Systems and methods are disclosed for sensing forces, moments, temperature, inclination, acceleration and other parameters associated with prosthetic limbs. The system is capable of measuring forces in three designated axes, and moments about the same designated axes, for a total of six possible degrees of freedom. The system can be readily fitted onto a conventional prosthetic limb with no, or relatively minor, modification thereto. A plurality of sensor arrays are disposed on a support member, each array including a plurality of strain gauge sensors, each sensor outputting an electrical signal responsive to loading imposed on the support member through the prosthetic limb. Electronic circuitry in communication with the gauges is operative to receive the electrical signals from the strain gauges and provide a signal useful in the form, fit or function of the prosthetic limb.
US08298292B2 Craniofacial implant
A composite surgical implant that is made of a planar sheet of a thermoplastic resin that includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a surgical grade metal mesh or metal plates contained therein. The implant may be bent by hand, wherein upon the displacement of the implant, the implant will generally maintain the shape to which it has been displaced.
US08298290B2 Implantable prosthesis for soft tissue repair
An implantable prosthesis for repairing or augmenting anatomical defects, including an inguinal hernia. The prosthesis includes a repair fabric having a body portion and a support member that may be arranged in or on the repair fabric to help deploy the repair fabric at the surgical site and/or help inhibit folding or buckling of the repair fabric. The support member may substantially surround the body portion to help deploy and/or hold the body portion in a spread out configuration for covering the defect. The support member may include first and second ends that are spaced apart to form an interruption so that a slit or keyhole arrangement may be formed in the repair fabric through the interruption and into an interior region of the body portion to receive a body structure, including a cord structure such as the spermatic cord. A portion of the support member may deviate inwardly toward the body portion to form an indentation that is adapted to be positioned adjacent to a body structure, such as the femoral vessels during an inguinal hernia repair procedure. The indentation may be offset to one side of the prosthesis. The support member and/or the repair fabric may be configured so as to inhibit protrusion of the ends of the support member through the fabric in the vicinity of the interruption. The support member may be formed of a monofilament comprised of a non-resorbable or resorbable material.
US08298287B2 Intervertebral motion disc with helical shock absorber
This invention relates to an intervertebral motion disc having two opposing endplates, a central articulating core, and a peripheral helical shock absorber.
US08298284B2 Whip stitched graft construct and method of making the same
A whip stitched graft construct and method of formation. The whip stitched graft construct includes a plurality of tendon strand regions or soft tissue grafts placed together so that at least a portion of the plurality of the tendon strand regions are stitched together by employing multiple suture passes placed according to a whip stitching technique. Preferably, the multiple suture passes start at about the mid length of the plurality of tendon strand regions and are advanced toward one of the free ends of the tendon strands. The whip stitched graft construct is provided with at least two regions, one region formed of at least a plurality of tendon strand regions tied and whip stitched together, and the other region formed of untied segments of the plurality of tendon strands.
US08298280B2 Stent with protruding branch portion for bifurcated vessels
The present invention is directed to a stent for use in a bifurcated body lumen having a main branch and a side branch. The stent comprises a radially expandable generally tubular stent body having proximal and distal opposing ends with a body wall having a surface extending therebetween. The stent also comprises a branch portion that is deployable outwardly from the stent body into a branch vessel.
US08298276B2 Stent delivery system, stent placement method, and stent attachment method
A stent delivery system which is inserted into an endoscope and is for placing a stent inside a body cavity, this stent delivery system being provided with a long pusher catheter which is flexible; a guide catheter which can pass through the lumen of the pusher catheter in a freely advancing and retracting manner; and a stent which is disposed to the front end of the pusher catheter, and has a cylindrical stent main body into which the guide catheter can be inserted, and a grip piece that is attached so as to extend from the main body and consists of a long narrow member that is pliable and can be disposed in the space between the guide catheter when it is inserted into the lumen of the pusher catheter.
US08298273B2 Renew compression screw
An external fixator implant screw with an intercalated head, of which one embodiment for lag screw mode has a spherical head, and a partial thread. The spherical head in countersunk bone exerts concentric wide contact on insertion at various angles to surface. Optional canalization of central rod allows guide wire technique and optional mobility of head allows variable shaft length between head and thread. Another embodiment for use in basic implant mode, in a single bone fragment, at right angles to bone surface, has a conical head with limited basal contact on bone, the head being integrated to a solid rod and is fully threaded from head to leading tip. In both embodiments, the load transmission is renewable from outside in case of loosening, without reopening any wound. The implant is made of biocompatible material.
US08298264B2 Systems and methods for use in spinal support
A method for supporting a spine of a person includes forming a pathway in a spine by removing a plurality of portions of a plurality of vertebrae of the spine with the pathway being configured to receive a supporting structure. The supporting structure is inserted into the pathway and through the plurality of vertebrae.
US08298261B2 Medical device and procedure for attaching tissue to bone
The invention pertains to medical devices for anchoring a suture engaged with soft tissue to a bone, the devices including tissue fastening medical devices, bone anchor medical devices, bone anchor driving tools and impactor tools, and procedures for using the same.
US08298260B2 Compliant, long-lasting absorbable monofilament sutures
Monofilament sutures are disclosed, which are formed of complaint, segmented, polyaxial, absorbable copolyesters. The sutures are capable of retaining at least 50 percent of their initial breaking strength after 6 weeks following placement in animal or human tissues.
US08298259B2 Tissue puncture closure device with actuatable automatic spool driven compaction system
A tissue puncture closure device includes an anchor, a sealing plug, a suture coupled to the sealing plug, a compaction arrangement, and an automatic driving assembly. The automatic driving assembly includes first and second spool members and an actuation member. The first spool member is configured to coil a portion of the suture. The second spool member is configured to coil a portion of the compaction arrangement. The actuation member is coupled to the first and second spool members. Activation of the actuation member releases the first spool member for rotation to apply a tension force in the suture, and releases the second spool member for rotation to distally advance a portion of the compaction arrangement to compress the sealing plug.
US08298251B2 Anastomosis apparatus and methods
A system for anastomosing a first tubular structure to a second tubular structure having an opening formed therein comprises a support device having a plurality of arms forming spaces therebetween and a plurality of piercing members slidably coupled to the arms. The support device piercing members have a retracted state and an extended state to support the first tubular structure thereon for placement within an opening in the second tubular structure to facilitate anastomosing the tubular structures together. The arms can be configured to urge the first tubular structure against the portion of the second tubular structure surrounding the opening to form a seal therebetween. According to one embodiment, a plurality of discrete fasteners are provided to pass through the support device spaces and the first and second tubular structures. In another embodiment, fasteners are integrated into the support device and releasably coupled thereto for delivery to the anastomosis site.
US08298248B2 Medical ligating apparatus
A medical ligating apparatus includes a medical ligating device having a member which is made of a flexible line and ligates living tissues, and a fixing member which is movably provided at the ligating member and fixes the living tissues in a ligated state, a manipulating device having a flexible sheath and a proximal manipulating section, and a cutting member for cutting the ligating member. The cutting member is provided on the manipulating device and is movably provided on the ligating member.
US08298245B2 Three-dimensional positioning device for minimally invasive surgery
A three-dimensional positioning device for minimally invasive surgery includes a base, two angle adjustable assemblies, an arc, a sliding assembly, a first positioning assembly, a second positioning assembly and a third positioning assembly. The base includes two first frames and two second frames. Two ends of each second frame are connected to the first frames respectively. Each first frame has a pivotal member. The angle adjustable assemblies are pivotably connected to the pivotal member of the first frame respectively. The arc includes a hollow track member. The angle adjustable assemblies are connected to two ends of the arc. The sliding assembly is mounted on the track member of the arc according to a predetermined position of a nidus. Therefore, the three-dimensional positioning device can effectively improve precision and operation more precisely in minimally invasive surgery to increase surgery success rate.
US08298241B2 Universal extractor for total endoprostheses (TEP) of the knee joint
The invention relates to a universal extractor for total endoprostheses (TEP) of the knee joint. The object of the invention, namely to make available a universal extractor for artificial knee joints that avoids the disadvantages of the prior art, is achieved by the fact that the universal extractor comprises the following parts: a T-piece with an extraction plate and with a securing arm, the securing arm being fork-shaped and slotted at its distal end and supporting the extraction plate at its proximal end; a scissor mechanism with clamping jaws located at its free distal ends, said securing arm holding the scissor mechanism by means of a securing pin about which the scissor mechanism can move; and an eyebolt which is mounted on the proximal end of the scissor mechanism and has a knurled nut, the eyebolt being adjustable and connecting the ends of the scissor mechanism to each other, so as to permit fixing or release of the clamping jaws which have a shovel-shaped, U- to V-shaped geometry.
US08298234B2 Orthopaedic implant and fastener assembly
Systems, devices and methods are disclosed for treating fractures. The systems, devices and methods may include one or both of an implant, such as an intramedullary nail, and a fastening assembly, such as a lag screw and compression screw assembly. The implant in some embodiments has a proximal section with a transverse aperture and a cross-section that may be shaped to more accurately conform to the anatomical shape of cortical bone and to provide additional strength and robustness in its lateral portions, preferably without requiring significant additional material. The fastening assembly may be received to slide, in a controlled way, in the transverse aperture of the implant. In some embodiments, the engaging member and the compression device are configured so that the compression device interacts with a portion of the implant and a portion of the engaging member to enable controlled movement between the first and second bone fragments. This configuration is useful for, among other things, compressing a fracture.
US08298232B2 Endoscopic vessel sealer and divider for large tissue structures
An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing having a shaft affixed thereto, the shaft including jaw members at a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly which moves the jaw member relative to one another for manipulating tissue and a knife assembly for cutting tissue disposed between jaw members. The forceps also includes a knife lockout mechanism operatively connected to the drive assembly. Movement of the drive assembly moves the knife lockout mechanism from a first orientation in obstructive relationship with the knife bar to prevent movement thereof to a second position which allows selective, unencumbered movement of the knife assembly to cut tissue disposed between the jaw members.
US08298230B2 Coagulation forceps with a hollow shaft
Coagulation forceps (1) with a hollow shaft (2) and with a fixed forceps leg (3), set at an angle in reference to the hollow shaft (2) and provided with a gripping surface (3a) are provided, having a forceps leg (6) pivotally mounted in reference thereto at a pivot support (4). At the exterior or bottom side facing away from the pivotal forceps leg (6), a hollow profile (8) is provided for stiffening or reinforcing it, which has a mouth or entry opening (10) at the distal end of its interior longitudinal caving (9), i.e. is open and leads to a suction connection (12) so that suction can be applied via the hollow profile (8) in the distal end region of this forceps leg (3).
US08298227B2 Temperature compensated strain sensing catheter
A strain sensing assembly implements thermal management and/or temperature measurement techniques to adequately mitigate against and compensate for temperature changes in optical fiber strain sensors of a distal end of a catheter. In one embodiment, the distal end of the catheter includes an end effector such as an ablation head that introduces significant thermal temperature changes proximate the distal end of the catheter. In one embodiment, a plurality of temperature sensors is utilized for accurate determination of each of a plurality of optical fiber strain sensors. In other embodiments, a single temperature sensor may be utilized by implementing thermal management techniques that adequately reduce temperature differences between the single temperature sensor and the plurality of optical fiber strain sensors.
US08298220B2 Cryoprobe with coaxial chambers
The present disclosure is directed to a cryoprobe capable of improving the cooling power of a cryosurgical system. A representative cryoprobe can comprise an inner cooling chamber and a radial chamber, positioned between the inner cooling chamber and an exterior wall of the cryoprobe. Preferably, the radial chamber is formed to have a low thermal conductivity so as to significantly reduce the transfer of heat between the body and the refrigerant in the inner chamber during a cryosurgical procedure. The radial chamber can be fabricated such that a vacuum can be applied to the radial chamber to further reduce heat transfer between the body and the inner cooling chamber. The radial chamber extends partially along the length of the cryoprobe such that inner cooling chamber is in direct thermal contact with the exterior wall at a cryoprobe tip.
US08298216B2 Pain management using cryogenic remodeling
Medical devices, systems, and methods for pain management and other applications may apply cooling with at least one probe inserted through an exposed skin surface of skin. The cooling may remodel one or more target tissues so as to effect a desired change in composition of the target tissue and/or a change in its behavior, often to interfere with transmission of pain signals along sensory nerves. Alternative embodiments may interfere with the function of motor nerves, the function of contractile muscles, and/or some other tissue included in the contractile function chain so as to inhibit muscle contraction and thereby alleviate associated pain. In some embodiments, other sources of pain such as components of the spine (optionally including herniated disks) may be treated.
US08298215B2 Guidewire tipped laser fiber
A device for application of energy within a tubular bodily structure including an optical fiber couplable to a source of laser energy and a guidewire tip. The optical fiber has a laser emitting portion remote from the source of laser energy and a distal end. The guidewire tip is operably secured to the optical fiber and extends distally outwardly away from the distal end of the optical fiber. The guidewire tip assists in advancing the device through the tubular bodily structure.
US08298209B2 Sealing for medical devices/instruments
A seal member for assembly within, or a seal zone portion of, a lumen of a medical instrument/device includes a slit segment and a bore, wherein the slit segment intersects with a funnel-like segment of the bore.
US08298205B2 Elastic laminate and absorbent article comprising the laminate
An elastically stretchable laminate (1) includes a first non-elastic nonwoven web (2), a second non-elastic nonwoven web (4) and an elastic film (6) between the first and the second nonwoven webs (2,4). The laminate (1) has been rendered elastic in a first direction (MD) by incremental stretching and partial tearing of the first and second nonwoven webs (2,4). The laminate (1) includes a reinforcement layer (8) arranged between the first and second non-elastic nonwoven webs (2,4) and comprising unbroken reinforcement fibers or filaments (9) extending in a second direction (CD), generally perpendicular to the first direction (MD). Also described is a pant-type article including the elastically stretchable laminate.
US08298204B2 Disposable pull-on type diaper
A disposable pull-on type diaper has a separator interposed between an inner surface of an absorbent chassis and the wearer's skin so as to protect the diaper wearer's skin from being soiled with feces. The separator is formed by a piece of sheet extending from a bottom of a crotch region of the diaper toward a front waist region and a rear waist region and fixed to lateral edges of the crotch region. The piece of sheet has a front end and a rear end both extending in a transverse direction of the crotch region. These front end and rear end are free along middle segments thereof as viewed in the transverse direction of the crotch region from an inner surface of an absorbent chassis and inseparably integrated with each other.
US08298201B2 Cleanable filter for an ostomy appliance
The present invention relates to an in situ cleanable filter for an ostomy appliance comprising a pathway for leading gases to a vent in an ostomy bag and a protective element contained in said pathway to prevent solid or semi-liquid waste from blocking the pathway where a channel or compartment formed by liquid impermeable layer(s) is defining at least part of the pathway and at least a part of said compartment or channel contain a protective element of an open celled compressible material having a memory and having a pore size of at least 60 PPI, said protective element extending in the same direction as the gas flow within the channel or compartment, said channel or compartment having an opening providing access to the pathway from the interior of the bag, said pathway having another opening being connected to a vent in the ostomy bag, optionally via a deodorizing filter.The invention relates to an ostomy appliance comprising a filter as above and a method for emptying and cleaning the filter.
US08298198B2 Dual spray can topical delivery device
The present invention is directed to a delivery device and method for the sequential delivery of a topical pain relieving composition and an occluding composition. These two compositions are held in a single device that comprises at least two chambers for manual and or pressurized delivery of these compositions to the patient's skin.
US08298197B2 Wound chamber for limb
A wound dressing includes a chamber (12) defining a treatment space (14) and at least one opening (20) communicating with the treatment space. In one embodiment, a plurality of channels are defined on an inner wall of the chamber. In another embodiment, a tube (31) extends through the chamber and into the treatment space and defines a plurality of openings (35) in a portion of the tube extending into the treatment space. In yet another embodiment, a tube extends through the chamber and into the treatment space and comprises a plurality of branches (37) extending to different regions of the treatment space.
US08298196B1 Needleless access connector and method of use
A positive-displacement needleless access connector includes a housing with a female luer fitting, a base with a male luer fitting, and a valve element with a proximal end that creates a seal in the housing, a septum, and a distal end that fastens to the base to vent the septum; the base and the valve element coupling to each other to create an assembly that has a greatest outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the housing.
US08298195B2 Needleless access port valve
Needleless access port valves are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to needleless access port valves having a resilient piston. The valve includes a valve housing having an inlet port, an outlet port, and an interior cavity with an upper shoulder and a lower shoulder. A resilient piston made of a homogeneous material is positioned within the interior cavity and is compressed by the upper shoulder and the lower shoulder of the valve housing.
US08298194B2 Injection device and a method of changing a cartridge in the device
A refillable injection device (1) having a dose setting mechanism with a dose setting member (4) and a dose rod (11). The dose setting member and the dose rod engage during normal operation of the injection device, and they do not engage during change of cartridge. The dose setting member and the dose rod need to be moved into engagement when a new cartridge is inserted in the injection device. Thereby there is a risk that stress is build-up in the piston rod. In order to prevent this, the cartridge holder is operatively connected to the dose rod in such a manner that when a cartridge is being inserted in the cartridge holder, the dose rod is caused to move along with the piston rod in an axial direction, at least while the dose setting member and the dose rod are moved into engagement.
US08298193B2 Plunger rod head for activating needle safety device
A passive needle safety device for protecting the needle of an injection syringe after medication has been delivered to a patient comprising a body that can hold a syringe, a telescoping guard fitting over the body, and a spring deployed between the guard and body such that the guard is urged in an extend configuration distally relative to the body, the improvement comprising, trigger fingers for holding the guard and body together in an un-extended configuration against the force of the spring, and a plunger rod with a plunger head which pushes against the trigger fingers, the head having an angled surface that provides a lateral component of force to the trigger fingers to displace them from the latched configuration to an unlatched configuration.
US08298181B2 Vascular catheter installer
A vascular catheter installer with a syringe holder adapted for use with a catheter syringe is provided for installing an indwelling catheter into a blood vessel. A syringe holder is slidably set on a rigid shaft, allowing a technician to maneuver an attached catheter syringe up and down the shaft. The technician presses down on a finger-hold platform while a stabilizer holds the device in place. The syringe holder can be locked in multiple locations along the shaft and the needle of the syringe can be immobilized within the protective walls of a needle shield for safety.
US08298180B2 Safety needle guard
A needle guard is disclosed. The needle guard includes a binding plate defining a multi-slot aperture adapted to receive a needle cannula therethrough. The needle guard also includes a biasing member for biasing the needle cannula within the multi-slot aperture, and a sensing arm connected to the binding plate. The sensing arm is adapted to contact a portion of the needle cannula, and is positionable for restricting movement of the needle cannula. The multi-slot aperture may include a first region having a first dimension, a second region having a second dimension, and optionally, a third region having a third dimension with the third dimension being smaller than the second dimension and the second dimension being smaller than the first dimension.
US08298178B2 Rapid exchange catheter with depressable channel
A rapid exchange catheter extends from a proximal portion which remains outside of a patient's body during use to a distal portion which, during use, is located within a body lumen adjacent to a target area to be treated, wherein the proximal and distal portions are coupled by a medial portion. The catheter comprises a guide wire lumen extending longitudinally through the distal portion and a guide wire receiving channel formed by an outer surface of the medial portion, wherein the guide wire lumen is open to a distal end of the channel.
US08298177B2 Insert molded catheter puller member connectors and method of making the same
The present invention is directed to a method of securing a puller member in a control handle for a deflectable catheter. The method comprises preforming an end of the puller member, placing the preformed end in an insert mold, filling the insert mold with thermoplastic material to form a molded member, and positioning the molded member encasing the end of the puller member in a control handle.The method may also include shaping the thermoplastic material into a screw configuration and fastening the molded member to a wall in the control handle. The method may further include joining the end of the puller member with an end of a second puller member, and placing joined ends of the puller members in the insert mold.
US08298171B2 Automatic administration instrument for medical use
After pressing a part of the exterior of a body of an administration instrument against a body region of a patient to which a drug solution is to be administered, an injection needle that is housed in the instrument body is automatically protruded from the body to insert the needle into the body region, and further, the injection needle being inserted into the body region is automatically housed in the instrument body to remove the needle from the body region. Thereby, the pain of the patient during needle insertion and needle removal is reduced, and administration at a constant speed is possible during injection of the drug solution. Furthermore, even when two kinds of drug solutions or a dissolving and mixing type drug solution are/is used, mixing can be easily and reliably carried out.
US08298170B2 Method of making a peritoneal dialysis therapy machine
A method for making a peritoneal dialysis therapy machine having a tubing set includes: packaging an end of each of a plurality of the tubes of the set in a body; arranging the tubes according to a sequence of steps of a dialysis treatment set-up so that a user is urged to remove the tubes from the single body in a desired order; and configuring the body to plug connectors attached to each of the ends of the tubes.
US08298169B2 System, methods and apparatus for cerebral protection
A device, system and method for perfusing an oxygenated medium in the cerebral vasculature includes positioning pressure cuffs on upper extremities; providing a catheter having a multi-region configuration with a balloon; inserting the catheter into a subclavian or femoral vein; advancing the catheter such that the balloon is positioned substantially in the superior vena cava junction substantially proximal to the take-off of the left inominate vein. During a perfusion mode, the cuffs and balloon are inflated causing an increase in cerebral blood flow, retrogradely; and oxygenated blood which may be cooled is pumped from a femoral artery into the catheter for a suitable period. During a non-perfusion mode the cuffs and balloon are deflated. The catheter has at least two regions, namely, guide wire and fluid delivery regions. Optionally, a separate balloon inflation region may be provided.
US08298166B2 Adjustable dorsal night splint
A dorsal night splint has dynamic adjustable features that allow the patient to adjust the splint while in use to control the stretching of the plantar fascia and Achilles. A semi-rigid flexible frame is included along with a tightening strap that is anchored to the frame and by which the patient can tension the strap and adjust the structure of the frame to fit the patient's desired therapeutic or prophylactic needs.
US08298164B2 Motion assisting device
Provided is a motion assisting device capable of assisting a periodical walking motion of a creature so as to conduct a smooth motion of a leg thereof. According to the motion assisting device, an assisting force applied to the creature so as to assist a leg of the creature in moving with respect to a body thereof is reinforced by an increment in an auxiliary coefficient increased in a reinforcement duration. Accordingly, the stretch motion of the leg at the on-ground state is assisted by a relatively stronger assisting force. Thereby, the body is conducted to translate forward by a floor reaction force subjected to the leg at the on-ground state. A flexion motion of the leg at an off-ground state is induced by a reflex (stretch reflex) to the stretch motion of the leg by the assisting force at a previous off-ground state.
US08298163B1 Non-invasive ultrasonic soft-tissue treatment apparatus
Non-invasive apparatus and methods are disclosed for treatment of soft-tissues of a human or animal body, and, more particularly, non-invasive treatment apparatus and methods for destruction of adipose tissues of a patient using focused delivery of ultrasonic energy in a group of focal zones.
US08298162B2 Skin and adipose tissue treatment by nonfocalized opposing side shock waves
The present invention is a device for the destruction of adipose tissue comprising two or more ultrasound generators positioned on opposing sides of the treatment area each generating a non-focused wave that converge forming a interferential clash zone with the treatment area therein. Ultrasound generators are contained within a handpiece housing. Furthermore the present invention provides an optional housing having a source of vacuum for encompassing a treatment area whereby the treatment area is drawn bell-shaped into the housing whereupon a pair of shock wave generators are energized to produce cavitational areas within the treatment area and a third interferential energized area between the cavitational areas.
US08298160B2 Wire convertible from over-the-wire length to rapid exchange length
Apparatus for use in deploying medical devices. The apparatus includes a wire having a diameter such that the wire can appropriately be used with either a corresponding over-the-wire configured catheter or a rapid-exchange configured catheter. The wire has a location at which it can be easily fractured, when desired, in order to convert the length of the wire from a length for use in an over-the-wire configuration to a rapid-exchange configuration.
US08298157B2 Introducer cannula having a tissue anchor for use with a medical instrument
An introducer cannula configured for receiving a medical instrument includes a cannula tube having a side wall surrounding a central lumen, a proximal end, and a distal end. An elongate tissue anchor is positioned in the central lumen of the cannula tube. The elongate tissue anchor has a mounting end and an anchoring free end. The elongate tissue anchor is movable in the central lumen such that the anchoring free end is movable between a retracted position and a deployed position. An actuator is coupled to the proximal end of the cannula tube. The actuator is coupled to the mounting end of the elongate tissue anchor. The actuator is operatively configured to selectively position the anchoring free end of the elongate tissue anchor in one of the retracted position and the deployed position.
US08298155B2 Pure tone audiometer with automated masking
The present invention relates to a pure tone audiometer, and more particularly, to a pure tone audiometer with automated masking which is capable of automatically performing air-conduction and bone-conduction hearing tests and automatically performing a masking test, if necessary, so that a person obtains an accurate pure tone hearing threshold without others' assistance. The pure tone audiometer of the present invention can accurately perform the pure tone hearing test with automated masking without assistance from a doctor or an audiologist. Thus, with the pure tone audiometer, people can easily check their hearing ability for prevention and early detection of hearing loss and take swift action to cure hearing loss.
US08298154B2 Techniques for accurately deriving physiologic parameters of a subject from photoplethysmographic measurements
Several techniques are disclosed for isolating either heart or breath rate data from a photoplethysmograph, which is a time domain signal such as from a pulse oximeter. The techniques involve the use of filtering in the frequency domain, after a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) has been conducted on a given photoplethysmograph also references as a given set of discrete time-domain data. The filtering may be applied to an identified fundamental frequency and one or more harmonics for heart related parameters. The filter may be truncated to the frequency data set and further applied multiple times to improve roll off. After filtering, an Inverse FFT (IFFT) is used to reconstruct the time-domain signal, except with undesirable frequency content eliminated or reduced. Calculation or measurement of parameters is then conducted on this reconstructed time-domain signal.
US08298150B2 Hemodynamic waveform-based diagnosis and treatment
A method of monitoring pressure within a medical patient, includes measuring an actual pressure in a medical patient in a first time period; measuring an indicator of the actual pressure in the first time period, wherein the indicator is derived from an electrical signal of the patient's heart; determining a correlative relationship between the actual pressure and the indicator, wherein both the actual pressure and the indicator are obtained in the first time period; measuring the indicator in a second time period; and determining the actual pressure in the second time period based on the correlative relationship obtained in the first time period and the indicator obtained in the second time period.
US08298149B2 Systems and methods for making and using a motor distally-positioned within a catheter of an intravascular ultrasound imaging system
A catheter assembly for an intravascular ultrasound system includes an imaging core configured and arranged for inserting into a distal end of a lumen of a catheter. The imaging core includes at least one transducer mounted to a driveshaft and configured and arranged for transforming applied electrical signals to acoustic signals and also for transforming received echo signals to electrical signals. A motor is coupled to the driveshaft between the one or more transducers and the transformer. The motor includes a rotatable magnet and at least two magnetic field windings disposed around at least a portion of the magnet.
US08298147B2 Three dimensional co-registration for intravascular diagnosis and therapy
A method and system are disclosed for creating, in a coordinated manner, graphical images of a body including vascular features from a combination of image data sources. The method includes initially creating an angiographic image of a vessel segment. The angiographic image is, for example, either a two or three dimensional image representation. Next, a vessel image data set is acquired that is distinct from the angiographic image data. The vessel image data set comprises information acquired at a series of positions along the vessel segment. An example of such vessel image data is a set of intravascular ultrasound frames corresponding to circumferential cross-section slices taken at various positions along the vessel segment. The angiographic image and the vessel image data set are correlated by comparing a characteristic rendered independently from both the angiographic image and the vessel image data at positions along the vessel segment.
US08298144B2 Timing controller for combined photoacoustic and ultrasound imager
The present disclosure is directed to a combined photoacoustic (PA) and ultrasound imaging system capable of generating PA and ultrasound images simultaneously. These images can be combined and displayed in real-time. The PA images are acquired by firing a illumination system into a sample being imaged and beamforming the received photoacoustic signals. Ultrasound images are formed by transmitting ultrasound energy into the object and beamforming the reflected signals. The present disclosure describes a timing controller to allow the illumination system and ultrasound transmissions to be timed relative to one another. This allows both modalities to operate at close to their maximum frame rates while preventing signal interference.
US08298142B2 Analyte sensor
Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
US08298137B2 Method for transmitting torque and variably flexing a corrugated insertion device
A method for transmitting torque and variably flexing an insertion device for receiving an instrument includes the steps of providing a hollow body, transmitting torque along the hollow body with a corrugated tube, applying suction to create a vacuum in the hollow body for placing the hollow body in a relatively stiff condition, relieving the vacuum for placing the hollow body in a relatively flexible condition, maintaining the hollow body in the relatively flexible and relatively stiff conditions with tendons disposed within the hollow body, and individually adjusting at least some of the tendons in length for steering a distal end of the hollow body.
US08298133B2 Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
A gastric band has a balloon shaped and dimensioned to circumscribe the stomach at a predetermined location and a belt extending about the balloon. Further, a linking layer is positioned between the balloon and the belt, wherein the linking layer is harder than either the balloon or the belt. Additionally, the belt includes a first latching member at a first end of the gastric band and second latching member at a second end of the gastric band, the first latching member and the second latching member being shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement to secure the gastric band about a stomach of a patient, wherein the first latching member and second latching member are composed of different materials.
US08298132B2 Method of treating benign hypertrophy of the prostate
Disclosed herein are methods of treating a patient with benign hypertrophy of the prostate, comprising providing a compressible attenuation device that is moveable from a first, introduction configuration to a second, implanted configuration and attenuating a pressure change within the bladder by reversibly changing the volume of the attenuation device in response to the pressure change. In one embodiment, the attenuation device is advanced percutaneously into the bladder. In another embodiment, the attenuation device is positioned within the bladder to inhibit a decrease in compliance of the bladder wall as a consequence of the benign hypertrophy of the prostate.
US08298131B2 System and method for relaxation
A system (10) for relaxation, the system (10) comprising: electrodes (15) worn by a user to measure the electrocardiogram (ECG) of the user; a processor (18) to process the ECG to remove noise and analyse the ECG signal in the time and frequency domains, and compute an index of stress (33) from the processed ECG; and a multimedia device (14) to provide real-time biofeedback by communicating the index of stress (33) to the user together with a relaxation video (31) to cause the user to relax.
US08298127B2 Folding method and folding apparatus
A folding method includes feeding a sheet to be folded to a folding unit, folding the sheet repeatedly by the folding unit, thereby creating a folded package, and discharging at least a part of the folded package from the folding unit. While at least a part of the folded package is discharged from the folding unit in the step of discharging, a part of the sheet is held back. The method includes unfolding at least one fold of the folded package. A folding apparatus is provided for carrying out the method.
US08298117B2 Method for operating a hybrid drive system having a torque converter
A method for operating a hybrid drive system, in particular of a motor vehicle, having at least one electric machine and one internal combustion engine, a disconnecting clutch being provided between the electric machine and the internal combustion engine and a torque converter having a turbine wheel being provided between the electric machine and a hybrid drive output, the disconnecting clutch being engaged for starting the internal combustion engine. It is provided that, as a function of the rotational speed of the turbine wheel of the torque converter, a rotational speed is predefined for the electric machine such that no sudden torque change occurs at the hybrid drive output when the internal combustion engine is started.
US08298116B2 Method and apparatus to detect a mode-gear mismatch during steady state operation of an electro-mechanical transmission
Control of operation of a hybrid powertrain is provided, wherein mechanical power flow to an output is controlled through selective actuation of torque-transfer clutches. Electric machines are coupled to an energy storage system for electric power flow. The electro-mechanical transmission is operated in a continuously variable operating range state, and, operation of the transmission is monitored. Absence of a mismatch between the commanded continuously variable operating range state and an actual operating state of the transmission is determined. Presence of a mismatch between the commanded operating range state and the actual operating state of the transmission may be determined. Operation of the powertrain is modified when a mismatch between the commanded operating range state and the actual operating state of the transmission is detected.
US08298114B2 Planetary gear assembly
A planet gear assembly, including: a planet pin; a bearing comprising an inner race secured to the planet pin at a planet pin bearing end; a planet gear; and a compliant annular plate arranged to secure the planet gear to the planet pin. Compliance of the annular plate permits rotation of the planet gear when a planet gear axis of rotation is not coincident with an axis of rotation of a portion of the planet pin in the annular plate.
US08298111B2 Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes an input shaft, an acceleration/deceleration output unit that is coupled to the input shaft and has a first element that selectively outputs a decelerated rotation or an accelerated rotation of the input shaft and a second element that outputs a same number of rotations as the input shaft, a multiple planetary gear set for shifting having third, fourth, fifth and sixth elements, a first clutch coupling the first element and the sixth element selectively, a second clutch coupling the input shaft and the fourth element selectively, a third clutch coupling the first element and the third element selectively, a fourth clutch coupling the second element and the third element selectively, a first brake fixing the third element selectively, a second brake fixing the fourth element selectively and an output shaft coupled directly to the fifth element.
US08298110B2 Gear train for an actuator
In a gear train (10, 30) for an actuator, in particular of a vehicle seat (2), the gear train comprises a drive (11) that can be rotated about a rotational axis (A), at least one eccentric cam (12, 13) that is driven by the drive (11), a pinion (14, 15) that is driven by the eccentric cam (12, 13), a gear ring (16), which meshes with the pinion (14, 15) and in relation to which the pinion (14, 15) executes a rolling motion that defines a point of rolling contact (W), and a take-off drive (18) that taps the relative rolling motion. At least some sections of the material of the pinion (14, 15) and/or the ring gear (16) in the vicinity of the point of rolling contact (W) are elastically deformable, in order to produce surface contact at the point of rolling contact (W).
US08298109B2 Transmission lubrication assembly
A transmission lubrication assembly includes a stator tube having a fluid passage and a sleeve bore, and a stator tube sleeve having a lubrication path provided along an external peripheral service thereof. In another aspect, the transmission lubrication assembly may include a solid input shaft rotatably received within the stator tube, a valve body, and a lubrication tube that provides fluid communication between the fluid passage and the valve body. In yet another aspect, a method of lubricating a transmission assembly includes providing a pressurized source of lubricating fluid, providing a stator tube comprising a fluid passage, and directing a portion of the lubricating fluid to a section of the transmission assembly by way of a stator tube sleeve, wherein the stator tube sleeve has an axial channel through which the lubricating fluid flows.
US08298107B1 Retrofit kit for an Allison transmission
A retrofit kit for an Allison transmission for converting a standard Allison Transmission into a variable speed hybrid using external pressure. The retrofit kit for an Allison transmission includes a main housing; gear sets being disposed in the main housing and including rotational members; clutches being in operable communication to the gear sets; a hydrostatic pump being in operable communication to at least one of the rotational members and having ports; and a fluid circuit being in fluid communication to the hydrostatic pump through the ports and to at least one of the clutches.
US08298106B2 Steering transmission for tracked vehicles
An infinitely variable hydromechanical crossdrive steering transmission having a multiple of forward and reverse ratio ranges and a separately selectable low ratio range in both forward and reverse. The forward and reverse ratio ranges are enabled to shift between ratio ranges in a synchronous manner in both speed and torque, thus smoothly propelling the vehicle from rest through the multiple transmission ranges to maximum speed in a stepless manner.
US08298105B2 Hybrid drive device
A hybrid drive device, which has a motor generator on a power transmission path between an engine and an automatic transmission apparatus, includes a fluid clutch having a pump impeller, to which a rotational force generated by the engine is inputted, and a turbine impeller being rotated when receiving a fluid from the pump impeller and outputting a rotational force to the automatic transmission apparatus, a clutch mechanism connecting the pump impeller and the turbine impeller to establish a power transmission therebetween and disconnecting the pump impeller and the turbine impeller to interrupt the power transmission therebetween, and an oil pump arranged on a power transmission path between the turbine impeller and the automatic transmission apparatus, integrally rotating with the turbine impeller and generating a hydraulic pressure for actuating the automatic transmission apparatus and the clutch mechanism, wherein the motor generator is integrally rotated with the turbine impeller.
US08298102B2 Ball bat with governed performance
A ball bat includes a barrel in which one or more stiffening elements or damping elements, or both, are located. The stiffening or damping elements may be positioned at a variety of locations, and may have a variety of configurations, for selectively reducing the barrel's performance without appreciably increasing the bat's moment of inertia.
US08298100B2 Custom milled iron set
A process for the custom design and automated, custom manufacture of golf clubs. According to a first embodiment, a computer user interface, preferably a graphical user interface (GUI), guides a user's selection of preferred golf club design parameters. According to a second embodiment, input data about a golfer's style of play and golf club performance needs are captured from data collection systems, and analyzed by black box algorithms, preferably fuzzy logic algorithms, to infer golf club design parameters. After preferences for, or inferences about, golf club design parameters are developed in accordance with the two embodiments, a computer aided (CA) system is used to design and manufacture the desired golf clubs.
US08298098B2 Multilayer core golf ball having hardness gradient within and between each core layer
The present invention is directed to an improved multi-layered core golf ball wherein each core layer comprises its own specific hardness gradient (positive, negative or a combination) in addition to an overall specific hardness gradient from one core layer to the next.
US08298097B2 Multilayer core golf ball having hardness gradient within and between each core layer
A multi-layered core golf ball wherein each core layer comprises its own specific hardness gradient in addition to an overall specific hardness gradient from one core layer to the next. The inner core layer comprises a plurality of hardnesses of from about 50 Shore C to about 90 Shore C, a diameter of about 30 mm or lower, and a geometric center comprising a hardness greater than that of a first outer surface to define a negative hardness gradient of about 15 Shore C or greater. The outer core layer comprises a plurality of harnesses of from about 50 Shore C to about 95 Shore C, a thickness of about 10 mm or lower, and a second outer surface comprising a hardness greater than that of an inner surface to define a positive hardness gradient of about 20 Shore C or greater. A further outer core layer hardness, disposed in a region extending between about 10% and about 90% of the distance from the inner surface to the second outer surface, is greater than that of the inner and second outer surfaces. Also, the hardness of the second outer surface is similar to or less than that of the geometric center.
US08298093B2 Telescopic shaft for vehicle
A telescopic shaft including a male shaft including a plurality of first splines formed on an outer circumferential surface in an axial direction and a fixing groove and a derail prevention protrusion which are formed on outer circumferential surfaces at one end and a middle portion of the male shaft in a radius direction, a female shaft including a hollow and a plurality of second splines formed on an inner circumferential surface of the hollow corresponding to the plurality of first splines, a plurality of balls disposed between grooves of the plurality of first splines and grooves of the plurality of second splines, a leaf spring having a plate shape and inserted into the plurality of first spline grooves, and a fixing ring connected to the fixing groove and surrounding one end of the leaf spring to prevent the leaf spring from derailing.
US08298084B2 Multi-player game controller system with combinable hand-held game controllers
There is provided a multi-player game controller system first and second hand-held game controllers and engagement circuitry. The first hand-held game controller includes a first input control configured to generate a first input control signal in response to interaction with a first user. The second input controller includes a second input control configured to generate a second input control signal in response to interaction with a second user. The first and second hand-held game controllers have engagement states of an engaged state and an unengaged state. The engagement circuitry is configured to generate an engagement signal when the first and second hand-held game controllers are in an engagement state. There is also provided methods of operating the multi-player game controller system.
US08298083B2 Game device, game control method, information recording medium, and program
In a game, a user competes for accuracy of user's operation of a controller depending on whether a user can swing a controller at a target point in time. In a game device (401), for accurately determining the accuracy of user's operation, a measurement unit (402) measures acceleration of the controller, an extraction unit (403) extracts a time point at which a first threshold is reached by an increasing acceleration and a time point at which the first threshold is reached by a decreasing acceleration, wherein the increasing and decreasing accelerations are measured by the measurement unit, and a determination unit (404) selects, from the time points extracted, a time point closest to the target point in time, and determines the accuracy of the user operation based on the difference between the target point in time and the time point selected.
US08298081B1 Gaming system, gaming device and method for providing multiple display event indicators
In various embodiments, the gaming system, gaming device, and gaming method disclosed herein utilizes a single display device to display at least one event indicator which conveys information that is otherwise displayed over a plurality of display devices. In one embodiment, the gaming system employs a multiple layered display device, wherein at least one layer of the display device displays the play of the primary game and at least one layer of the display device displays one or more event indicators. Such event indicators indicate information regarding the play of a secondary game displayed on a secondary display device. Such a configuration alleviates the player from having to frequently look up at the secondary display to determine information regarding the play of the secondary game and then look back down to the primary display to view the play of the primary game.
US08298077B2 Promotion administration system and method
A system for administering promotions in which a player is awarded promotion credit to be consumed in wagering activities includes a credit administration facility that maintains a player credit account, and a display means capable of displaying a composition of the player credit account on a display means. The promotion credit is either one or both of a priori and a posteriori promotion credit. The credit administration facility automatically determines the composition of the player credit account as a function of any credit purchases made by the player, wagers made by the player and their corresponding payouts, and any promotion credit awarded to the player.
US08298076B2 Gaming machine and control device capable of collecting advertisement cost from sponsor, and method of collecting the advertisement cost
According to a gaming machine 1, a predetermined profit is offered and an advertisement image of a sponsor is displayed to a lower image display panel 141 when a predetermined condition is satisfied. A hard disk drive 205 provided in an external control device 200 stores data based on the satisfaction of the predetermined condition as cost-collecting data for collecting money in an amount corresponding to the predetermined profit from the sponsor.
US08298071B2 Slot machine having a plurality of input devices and control method thereof
A slot machine of the present invention is provided with a plurality of BET input devices with each of which a player can bet game media in a different amount. The number of times that a game is played is counted in association with the BET input device with which a BET has been inputted in that game. A predetermined profit is offered based on the number of times counted in association with the BET input device.
US08298063B2 System and method for applying lottery multipliers
Some systems, processes, apparatus and articles of manufacture provide for selling lottery entries. In one example, a request is received to purchase a multiplier and a set of play indicia for a lottery game.
US08298062B2 Gaming machine that navigates dealer in a game operation input in roulette game
The present invention has an object of providing a gaming system that can allow a game to be advanced even by an inexperienced dealer. CPU counts a time by a timer as upon triggering at a predetermined timing, on a time axis on which the roulette game is advanced based on control of the roulette game control unit and displays on dealer-used display an instructional image stored to be associated with a timing data, in response to a time counted by the timer matching a time indicated by timing data stored in ROM.
US08298060B2 Method and system for providing a digital jigsaw puzzle and using the puzzle as an online advertising vehicle
A system and method of providing a digital jigsaw puzzle game is disclosed. The puzzle pieces exhibit game-play characteristics of physical jigsaw puzzle pieces, such as friction, inertia, and angular momentum. The digital jigsaw puzzle may be implemented on a variety of multiple electronic formats including, but not limited to, websites, mobile devices, home computers, handheld gaming devices, and game consoles. Digital jigsaw puzzles can be used as an advertising format where the image of the puzzle is an advertisement.
US08298059B2 Method, system and computer program product for creating custom tutorials based on interactive gameplay
The present invention provides a method, system, and program product for creating a custom tutorial comprising the controller inputs associated with the controller manipulations that cause an action observed by a player during game play. Controller inputs are saved during game play. In response to a first player performing an action to create a tutorial, controller inputs from a tagged player are captured. A custom tutorial is created for performing game actions performed by the tagged player's avatar comprising the captured controller inputs. The tutorial is sent to a memory device accessible by the first player.
US08298058B2 Rotor for a straw chopper
A rotor for a straw chopper includes a rotor body, a mount disposed on the rotor body, at least one copper blade suspended, detachably, in a swinging fashion on the mount with a fastening element, and a fan blade element detachably connected to the mount by way of the fastening element. The fan blade element is attached in a rigid manner to the rotor body.
US08298057B2 Hollow space aerating device
The invention relates to a simple hollow space, in particular a channel, a cellar or a living room, aerating device (10) comprising several paddles (12) which are fixed to a hub (14) and surrounded by a fan housing (16) provided with input and output (17, 18) sides and a motor (20) which is mounted on the axis of rotation (15) of the hub (14) for driving the hub (14) and the paddles (12). According to said invention, a cover arrangement (30; 40) can be positioned on the output side (17) in such a way that a part thereof is covered, wherein said cover arrangement (30; 40) is provided with at least one opening (34-36; 44, 45) for connecting to a respective discharge hose (37-39; 47, 48).
US08298052B2 Apparatus for sorting articles
A device for sorting disks or disk-like members of different identities (e.g., roulette chips) that ejects the disks from a receptacle by means of a rotating wheel with numerous wells, such as multi-chip storage compartments. Ejection of an article from the numerous wells is achieved by an ejector lever making contact with an activated solenoid thus forcing the article at the bottom of the well, in conjunction with the momentum of the rotating wheel, into a receiving space. The disks in the receiving spaces are continually replaced by newly arriving disks, which force the previously positioned disks upward into a column.
US08298048B2 CMP pad dresser with oriented particles and associated methods
CMP pad dressers with superabrasive particles oriented into an attitude that controls CMP pad performance, and methods associated therewith are disclosed and described. The controlled CMP pad performance may be selected to optimize CMP pad dressing rate and dresser wear.
US08298043B2 Pad conditioner dresser
Methods for extending the service life of a CMP pad dresser having a substrate and a plurality of superabrasive particles disposed thereon which is used to dress a CMP pad are disclosed and described. The method may include dressing the chemical mechanical polishing pad with the dresser; determining superabrasive particle wear by measuring a mechanical property of the pad, dresser, or combination thereof; and responding to the mechanical property measurement by varying pressure and RPM between the pad and the dresser in relation to the superabrasive particle wear in order to extend dresser life. Additionally, a method may include dressing the chemical mechanical polishing pad with the dresser; vibrating, in a direction substantially parallel to a working surface of the pad, a member selected from the pad, the dresser, a wafer being polished by the pad, or any combination thereof, to minimize a mechanical stress on the pad, dresser, wafer, or combination thereof; and varying the pressure and RPM between the pad and the dresser, including gradually increasing the pressure and/or the RPM between the pad and the dresser in a non-linear manner over time as the dresser is used, such that the dresser life is extended, wherein the pressure and the RPM is increased when the chemical mechanical polishing pad surface exhibits wear.
US08298041B2 System and method for wafer back-grinding control
In a system or method for controlling wafer back-grinding, a chuck table has a surface for supporting a semiconductor wafer during a back-grinding process, one or more holes in the surface, and one or more sensors disposed in the one or more holes for monitoring a parameter during back-grinding. A computer-implemented process control tool is coupled to receive one or mote outputs from the one or more sensors and control the back-grinding process based on the received one or more outputs.
US08298038B2 Toy
A reconfigurable structure for use with toy vehicles is provided, the structure having a first tower structure having a plurality of floors each having an entrance and an exit; a lift movably secured to the first tower, the lift being positionable at any entrance of the plurality of floors of the first tower; a ramp movably secured to the first tower, the ramp being positionable at any exit of the plurality of floors of the first tower; a second tower structure having a plurality of floors each having an entrance and an exit; a lift movably secured to the second tower, the lift being positionable at any entrance of the plurality of floors of the second tower; a ramp movably secured to the second tower, the ramp being positionable at any exit of the plurality of floors of the second tower; and wherein the reconfigurable structure is capable of having a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration and the first tower has a connecting member configured to engage the second tower when the reconfigurable structure is in the stowed configuration.
US08298034B2 Patterning a thick film paste in surface features
This invention relates to a method for the fabrication of electrical and electronic devices using a photoresist deposited in pre-existing through holes in a device structure and a thick film paste, and to the devices made by such method. The method allows thick film paste deposits in the corners of the holes. This invention also relates to devices made with thick film pastes that are patterned using a diffusion layer made from residual photoresist deposits in a hole.
US08298031B2 Organic electroluminescence device
The present invention provides an excellent organic EL device with a glass substrate and a sealing glass sheet which are thinned for weight reduction while avoiding lowering the durability and impact resistance of the device. The organic luminescence device is characterized in that sealing is performed at the space between a face of the sealing glass sheet along the outer edge and a face of the device substrate with a low melting point metal.
US08298030B2 Spark plug manufacturing method, and spark plug
There is provided according to the present invention a manufacturing method of a spark plug that includes a cylindrical metal shell, a cylindrical ceramic insulator retained in the metal shell, a center electrode retained in the ceramic insulator and extending in an axial direction and a ground electrode having a rear end portion fixed to the metal shell and a front end portion formed with a protruding region facing a front end portion of the center electrode with a gap left therebetween and being of substantially uniform thickness except for an area where the protrusion is formed. The spark plug manufacturing method includes a press forming step for pressing the whole of a ground electrode material for constituting the ground electrode, so as to form a protruding region on a front end portion of the ground electrode material and a welding step for, after the press forming step, welding a rear end portion of the ground electrode material to the metal shell.
US08298025B2 Cooling systems and methods for hybrid marine propulsion systems
Cooling systems and methods for hybrid marine propulsion systems are disclosed. A first cooling circuit is arranged to convey raw cooling water through an internal combustion engine and to at least one drive component of a drive unit for the marine propulsion system. A second control circuit is arranged to convey raw cooling water through an electric motor. The system is arranged such that raw cooling water in the second cooling circuit is conveyed to the first cooling circuit to cool the drive component without cooling the component of the internal combustion engine.
US08298024B2 Propulsion system for a watercraft
A propulsion system 10 for a watercraft, comprises a surface-piercing propeller 12, a propeller drive 14, a shroud unit 16 which surrounds the propeller and a mounting arrangement 18 for mounting the propeller and the shroud unit to a watercraft. The shroud unit comprises an inner shroud 31 and an outer shroud 33 which define leading and trailing ends of the shroud unit and which define an air gap between them in the form of a rearwardly-opening annular recess 34. In use, due to sub-atmospheric pressure conditions created behind the trailing edge of the shroud unit as the watercraft travels through water, air is aspirated into the recess below the waterline, forming a curved sheet of air in the water aft of the shroud unit which decouples water flowing within the shroud from water flow externally thereof, thereby decreasing drag induced by the shroud.
US08298020B1 Central conductor of coaxial cable connector
A central conductor of coaxial cable connector includes a barrel, at least one first spring plate group, and at least one second spring plate group. The barrel has two ends forming connection bores, opposite side surfaces respectively forming a first slit and a second slit, and top and bottom walls respectively forming a wall opening and a bottom wall opening. The first spring plate group and the second spring plate group are arranged opposite in direction to each other and each includes spring plates that are arranged to engage each other from upper and lower sides. Each of the spring plates has an end connected to the top or bottom wall of the barrel and an opposite end extending inward of the top wall opening or the bottom wall opening. As such, clamping force is enhanced, contact area is increased, and resiliency limit is improved, so as to provide excellent engagement between conductors.
US08298016B2 Connector having a shield with with spring arms in lengthwise and crosswise directions
A connector to be disposed within a housing of an electronic device includes a main body and a conduction member. The conduction member includes a connecting portion and a resilient portion. The resilient portion is formed on the connecting portion and configured to abut against the housing. An EMI shield being formed on the housing, which includes at least one spring arm in the lengthwise direction and at least one spring arm in the crosswise direction on the EMI shield are sited to fixate the connection between the connector and the electronic device.
US08298014B2 Connector with data and power terminals on opposite sides of a terminal accommodating space
An eSATA connector includes a connector plug and a mated connector receptacle. The connector plug includes a plug member, a plug metal housing, plug data terminals and a terminal holding part, in which the plug data terminals are held, and further includes plug power terminals held in the terminal holding part, wherein the plug power terminals and the data terminals each other electrically insulated.
US08298011B2 Semiconductor device and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A method for making a semiconductor device including: element isolation regions formed in a state of being buried in a semiconductor substrate such that an element formation region of the semiconductor substrate is interposed between the element isolation regions; a gate electrode formed on the element formation region with an gate insulating film interposed between the gate electrode and the element formation region, the gate electrode being formed so as to cross the element formation region; and source-drain regions formed in the element formation region on both sides of the gate electrode, wherein a channel region made of the element formation region under the gate electrode is formed so as to project from the element isolation regions, and the source-drain regions are formed to a position deeper than surfaces of the element isolation regions.
US08298002B2 Pluggable cable connector
A pair manager for use in securing a twin-axial cable to a printed circuit board is described. The pair manager comprises a generally block-shaped portion containing a pair of channels. The channels extend from the front face to the rear face of the block-shaped portion. An integral flange and a pair of integral fingers extend perpendicularly from the front face of the block-shaped portion. The flange extends generally from the center of the front face and the fingers extend from opposite edges of the front face. The fingers and flange function as a partial shield cavity around each pair of conductors. This design helps to maintain better impedance matching when connecting twin-axial cables to a printed circuit board.
US08298001B2 Board connector provided with an actuator integral with a beam portion of a contact
For connecting a board member inserted in a board insertion direction, a board connector includes a contact with a first and a second beam portion, a housing holding the contact, and an actuator integral with the first beam portion. The first and the second beam portions include a first and a second clamping portion, respectively, for clamping therebetween the board member. The actuator includes an effort point portion formed forward with respect to the first clamping portion in the board insertion direction. When an operator inserts the board member into the board connector, the board member pushes and moves the effort point portion.
US08297997B2 Connector with a surface with primary and reduntant connection points
A connector (10, 30, 40) is provided for coupling an electronic circuit (11) of an electronic device to sensor and/or actuation elements (12) of the electronic device. The connector (10, 30, 40) comprises at least one connection surface (21) with i connection points (13), the i connection points (13) comprise j primary connection points (13) for coupling the electronic circuit (11) to j corresponding ones of the elements (12), and k redundant connection points (13) for redundantly coupling the electronic circuit (11) to at least one of the elements (12). The primary and the redundant connection points (13) for the at least one of the elements (12) are distributed over the connection surface (21).
US08297993B2 Connector arrangement with mate-assist device
The present application relates to a connector arrangement, including a first connector housing and a complementary second connector housing and a mate assist device. The mate assist device includes an actuating arm movably mountable to the first connector housing, wherein the actuating arm includes at least one cam slot and the second connector housing includes at least one corresponding cam peg to engage the cam slot, such that upon actuating of the mate assist device the cam slot can draw the cam peg towards the first connector housing to move the second connector housing towards the first connector housing. The actuating arm is provided with at least one blocking wing, which arranged movable with respect to the actuating arm and prevents from actuating the mate assist device, when the second connector housing is not at least partially mated with the first connector housing.
US08297985B1 Connector with surface mount signal pin
In various embodiments, a coaxial radio frequency (RF) connector has a circuit board surface mount signal pin that forms no sharp angles (and especially no sharp right angles) as it leads down from an axis of the connector to the level of a printed circuit board 44 to which the signal pin 18 is to be surface mounted. The signal pin is flat and has a first section, a second section and a third section. The first section extends axially from the first end of the signal pin housing. The second section is a transition from the first section to the third section and has a filleted interior corner and a corresponding rounded exterior corner providing a gradual transition between a direction in which the first section extends to a different direction in which the third section extends. The third section then forms a downward curve around an axis that is substantially parallel to an axis of the first section.
US08297982B2 Simulated abdominal wall
A physical model representing an anatomic model of the abdominal wall that provides for the option of: tactile feedback, the option for photo realism, the inclusion of various pathologies (including, but not limited to, abdominal wall defects such as hernia), and the customizability to mount the model to various training boxes or frames. This medical/anatomic simulation model is composed of various material layers including, but not limited to, non-elastomeric and elastomeric materials such as papers, fabrics, metallic sheets, metallic meshes, rubber-like foams, and other materials. This is a physical/mechanical model that simulates skin, tissue, and organs associated with abdominal wall morphology and pathology.
US08297976B2 Dental adhesive and method of use
A dental adhesive composition comprising (i) at least one non-acidic polymerizable monomer having at least one ethylenically unsaturated group, (ii) optionally one or more acidic compounds, (iii) at least one photoinitiator, (iv) at least one solvent, and (v) about 0-40% by weight of one or more fillers; wherein the weight ratio of non-acidic polymerizable monomers/acidic compounds in the adhesive composition is more than about 4.5; the viscosity of the adhesive composition is less than about 350 centipoise (cP) at 25° C.; and the adhesive composition excluding solvent and filler has an acid number of less than about 0.75 mmol NaOH/g. The dental adhesive composition is used with a dental primer composition, which may be provided together in a kit.
US08297973B2 Intraoral device
An intraoral device includes a one-piece, flexible, injection molded body made of a single homogeneous material. The body includes upper front and rear flaps, and lower front and rear flaps. Upper edges of the front flaps and lower edges of the lower flaps are sealed by respective upper and lower parts of a patient's mouth to form upper and lower evacuation channels when the body is disposed within the patient's mouth. Evacuation holes in the flaps are in communication with the evacuation channels. A connection section is in communication with the evacuation channels and is configured to extend outside of the patient's mouth to connect with a vacuum source for evacuating fluid from the patient's mouth through the evacuation holes and the evacuation channels.
US08297972B2 Combination tongue and flap retractor
A combination retractor includes an operational unit, a neck region and a handle region. The operational unit further includes a tongue retractor and a flap retractor. The tongue retractor may be concave to provide for a natural area to encapsulate the tongue. The tongue and flap retractors may also be provided as part of a continuous planar extension of the operational unit or may be disposed on different planes. The flap retractor may be formed of a tapered extended edge or tab, which can be made in various lengths and include a beveled edge. A suction mechanism may be added for eliminating fluids. The neck region may contain an S-shaped bend or lateral bends for better operative functionality and ergonomics. The proximal end of the handle region, opposite the operational unit, may further include any useful apparatus, such as a periosteal elevator or periosteal retractor.
US08297969B2 Low polluting emission gas burner
Gas burner (1) comprising a main metal body (6), an inner lance (11) for combustible gas, at least two outer lances (10) for combustible gas, a single duct (8) for conveying pre-heated air, a regulation system for the combustible gas, a refractory unit (30), characterized in that said gas burner (1) comprises a series of nozzles (20) for the injection of the preheated air into the combustion chamber, and in that, by operating on the gas regulation system, it is possible to switch, with continuity, from a flame functioning mode of the burner to a flameless functioning mode, the latter characterized by low emissions of polluting agents.
US08297966B2 Nozzle for a container manufacturing machine
Nozzle for a blowing or stretch-blow molding of containers starting from parisons made of plastics, said nozzle having a nozzle body capable of coming in contact with an upper face of a mold designed for receiving a parison, said nozzle being characterized in that it comprises: An insert provided with a frusto-conical contact face capable of contacting a mouth of the parison, wherein said insert is displaceable with respect of the nozzle body between an upper position and a lower position, and A return spring which biases the insert towards its lower position.
US08297965B2 Touch roll, main roll, sheet film casting apparatus, fine pattern transferring apparatus and sheet film
Disclosed is a touch roll (211) including: a center rotary shaft (20); fixed end plates (28, 29) concentrically disposed in two places which are away from each other in an axial direction of the center rotary shaft; an external cylinder (40) made of a metal-made thin film and rotatably supported, at two ends thereof, by the respective fixed end plates, the external cylinder being concentric with the center rotary shaft; and multiple rolling rubber rolls (70) each rotatably supported, at two ends thereof, by the respective fixed end plates, the plurality of rolling rubber rolls being in sliding contact with an outer peripheral surface of the center rotary shaft, and being in sliding contact with an inner peripheral surface of the external cylinder. In the touch roll, the rolling rubber rolls divide an annular space between the external cylinder and the center rotary shaft into multiple heating medium chambers arranged in a circumferential direction of the touch roll; and the rolling rubber rolls are configured in a way that each of the multiple heating medium chambers is filled with a heating medium.
US08297964B2 Cleaning of extrusion dies
Extrusion dies may be cleaned, especially of so-called die drips, by passing a wire over the die orifices in the vicinity of the exit face of the extrusion die. The operation of the extrusion operation is not affected by the passing of the wire through the stream(s) of the extrudate, and so the extrusion operation need not be shut down for the cleaning process. The process is especially useful for cleaning dies through which polymers are extruded.
US08297963B2 Mould with easy-replaceable mould plates
A mold apparatus with replaceable mold plates comprises mold bases, and positioning units used to position mold plates on the respective mold bases. If the positioning units are removed, the mold plates can be easily replaced in such a manner that the mold plates are made to slide along the positioning units, facilitating the replacement of the mold plates. Since the mold plates can be quickly replaced, when different products are going to be produced, it only needs to redesign new mold plates with new forming blocks, and the new mold plates can also be applied to the original mold bases as long as they are formed with the guide grooves for cooperating with the positioning portions of the positioning units, greatly reducing the production cost while producing high economic benefits.
US08297962B2 Molding machine and method for forming optical film
A molding machine for manufacturing an optical film includes a hopper, a first cylindrical roller, a second cylindrical roller, and an ultraviolet light source. The hopper defines a narrow outlet. The first cylindrical roller is rotatable around its central axis parallel to the narrow outlet. The second cylindrical roller is a transparent hollow structure rotatable around its second central axis. The first central axis is parallel to the second central axis at the same level. The first and second cylindrical rollers are located at two opposite sides of the narrow outlet and below the narrow outlet, and define a gap therebetween to feed the raw material. The ultraviolet light source is located in the second cylindrical roller. An emission direction of the ultraviolet light source is orientated toward a space between the narrow outlet and the second cylindrical roller.
US08297959B2 Systems for producing multilayered particles, fibers and sprays and methods for administering the same
Capsules and particles with at least one encapsulated and/or entrapped agent, such as therapeutic agent, imaging agents, and other constituents may be produced by electrohydrodynamic processes. More particularly, the agent encapsulated in a vehicle, capsule, particle, vector, or carrier may maximize treatment and/or imaging of malignant cancers while minimizing the adverse effects of treatment and/or imaging.
US08297956B2 Peristaltic pumping system
A peristaltic pumping system comprises a flexible tube, a substantially cylindrical rotating roller unit containing a series of rollers which are freely rotating around their axes and freely moving along a radial segment, holding mechanism for commonly holding the rollers, a central spreader element for pushing the rollers against the flexible tube and a driving unit comprising a driving coupling element, and the holding mechanism is made of at least one planar element having retaining and guiding means for rollers, and the planar element is furthermore adapted to be directly coupled to the coupling element in such a way that rollers are driven through the planar element.
US08297955B2 Roller pump
Provided is a roller pump that can easily install/remove an elastic tube and appropriately control a discharge flow rate. The roller pump includes a pump slide that is connected to a pump block cover via two slider links and restricts an arrangement of the elastic tube by an inner peripheral surface; a pump block cover that operates an opened state and a closed state of the pump slide; a first slider link that has a substantially circular contact surface in contact with the second slider link, having one end rotatably connected to the pump slide using a support pin and the other end rotatably connected to the pump block cover using a support pin; and a second slider link that has a substantially circular contact surface in contact with the first slider link and is rotatably connected to a fixed part of a base using a support pin.
US08297952B2 Water inlet unit for an amphibious pump
A water inlet unit for an amphibious pump includes a housing having a connecting hole, a first water inlet pipe having a first end connected to the connecting hole and a second end provided with a first water inlet port, a second water inlet pipe having a first end connected to the connecting hole and a second end provided with a second water inlet port, a guide member mounted on the housing and connected to the connecting hole, and a tap detachably locked in the first water inlet port or the second water inlet port. Thus, the water inlet unit has a first water inlet port and a second water inlet port so that the water inlet unit and the amphibious pump are disposed at an upright or transverse state according to the practical space requirement.
US08297946B2 Fan, motor and oil sealing structure thereof
An oil sealing structure of a motor includes a cover and at least one sealing element. The motor has a shaft, a fluid bearing and a bushing. The fluid bearing mounts to the shaft and is accommodated in the bushing. The cover is disposed around the shaft and is connected with an opening of the bushing. The sealing element is disposed around the shaft and between the fluid bearing and the cover. A fan and a motor including the above-mentioned oil sealing structure are also disclosed.
US08297945B2 Axial fan
In an axial fan (1), equipped with a frame (13), a motor (2) and an impeller (3) whose hub (15) is rotationally driven by the motor (2) and where the hub (15) is cup-shaped, with an end wall (16) and an annular side wall (17) to partially contain the motor (2), the motor (2) protrudes from the hub (15) with its longitudinal end (23) which is supported and laterally surrounded by a crown (12) of the frame (13) and the crown (12) has an annular end strip (21) facing the hub (15) and laterally surrounding an annular end strip (22) of the hub (15) which faces the crown (12).
US08297943B2 Pump control using overpressure source
A rotary positive displacement pump employs the higher pressure available at a region within the rotor chamber after the outlet port to augment the force of a biasing spring in a control system. A biasing spring with a lower spring force can thus be employed in the control system, resulting in a pump pressure output characteristic which can more closely match the operating speed varying working fluid requirements for devices supplied by the pump.
US08297939B2 Method of pumping agglomerative liquid and method of producing recording medium
A method of pumping an agglomerative liquid includes providing a diaphragm pump defined herein and pumping the agglomerative liquid using the diaphragm pump, the diaphragm has an annular thickened portion in the peripheral portion thereof as defined herein, the pump head has at least one channel communicating the inner peripheral edge of the clamping surface and the pump chamber, the diaphragm is reciprocally movable in opposite directions perpendicular to the diaphragm plane to increase and decrease the volume of the pump chamber so as to pump the liquid, the thickened portion of the diaphragm, the holding member, and the pump head are configured to satisfy the relation A
US08297934B2 Guide vane arrangement for a driving mechanism
The invention relates to a guide-vane arrangement (1) for deviating the flow present in the by-pass flow channel (2) of an engine (3), said arrangement comprising an outer ring (4) and an inner ring (5) and guide vanes (6) arranged therebetween in a substantially radial manner, wherein the outer ring (4) has elements (7) for connecting to an outer engine structure (8), and the inner ring (5) has elements (9) for connecting to an inner engine structure (10), with a plurality of segments (11) being provided. In order to create a guide-vane arrangement (1) which is sufficiently stable and has optimum aerodynamic properties, each segment (11) is integrally produced from at least one guide vane (6) with a part (12) of the outer ring (4) having at least two flanges (14) for fixing to the outer engine structure (8), and with a part (13) of the inner ring (5) having at least two flanges (15) for fixing to the inner engine structure (10), the segments (11) preferably being made of fiber-reinforced plastic composite material, preferably by an RTM (resin transfer molding) method.
US08297932B2 Blade insert
Blade insert arranged inside the blade walls so that the joint between the insert and composite (1) is a double shear joint. The insert is made up of two defined parts, the head (3, 3′) and the body, which are joined together by joint elements (5) that define a double wall body (6, 6′). The joint between the insert and pultruded material (2) is made with an adhesive chemical joint (9). After making the joint, the assembly made up by the inserts and pultrusion profiles (2) is fitted into the blade walls during its manufacturing process and material curing.
US08297928B2 Blade for reducing the drag movements of said blade, and a method of reducing such a drag movement
A blade (10) extending longitudinally from a root (11) of the blade (10) to a free end (12) of the blade (10), the blade (10) having a resonator (13) incorporated therein to reduce the drag movements (F1, F2) of the blade (10), the resonator (13) being provided with a solid and movable heavy element (30) and with resilient retaining element (20) secured to the heavy element (30) and to the blade (10). Furthermore, the resonator (13) includes guide element (40) in which the heavy element (30) is capable of oscillating (F1′, F2′) longitudinally, the guide element (40) being arranged in a longitudinal direction (D1) of the blade.
US08297925B2 Aerofoil configuration
A turbine blade comprising a pressure wall and a suction wall joined together at leading and trailing edges and having a root portion and a blade tip region, the walls further define a hollow chamber and through which cooling air is directed in use from the root portion to the blade tip region only, characterized in that at least one of the walls defines at least one cooling rib that extends outwardly from the wall into the chamber and at least a portion of the rib tapers between the root portion and a blade tip region.
US08297924B2 Actuation system, helicopter using the same, and controlling method therefor
An actuation system includes a pump assembly configured to form a pump chamber, an actuator having first and second chambers and a movable member and configured to convert pressures applied to the first and second chambers into a movement of the movable member, and a valve section. The valve section has a plurality of positions set by a controller, and the plurality of positions includes a first position in which the valve section opens the first flow path and closes the second flow path, a second position in which the valve section closes the first flow path and opens the second flow path, and a neutral position in which the valve section closes the first and second flow paths.
US08297922B2 Impeller cover and method
Method and impeller cover for protecting an impeller from damage. The impeller cover includes a removable body having a first face and a second face opposing the first face, the second face being configured to match a front face of the impeller of the compressor, and further having a frontal portion covering an entire frontal portion of the impeller of the compressor, and a fixing mechanism connected to the removable body and being configured to fix the impeller cover to the impeller of the compressor. The impeller cover is disposable.
US08297921B2 Blower system
The invention provides a blower system of a high performance, which is constructed to have stabilized characteristics, a high efficiency, a reduced thickness and a reduced noise. A blower system according to the invention includes an impeller, a motor for rotating the impeller and having a rotor and a stator, and a bell-mouth for supplying air to an intake port in the impeller, wherein the rotor is fixed to the impeller, and the stator is fixed to the bell-mouth. A gap between the impeller and the bell-mouth is composed of a gap between the rotor and the stator of the motor. Alternatively, the rotor is fixed to the impeller, and the stator is fixed to a fitting for mounting a housing of the blower system or the blower system.
US08297919B2 Turbine airfoil clocking
An assembly of airfoils in a turbine engine, the assembly comprising: at least three successive axially stacked rows of airfoils in one of a compressor and a turbine: a first airfoil row, a second airfoil row, and a third airfoil row; wherein the first airfoil row and the third airfoil row each comprise one of a row of rotor blades and a row of stator blades, and the second airfoil row comprises the other; and wherein at least a majority of the mid-channel points of the airfoils in the third airfoil row are positioned circumferentially within +/−25% pitch of the third airfoil row with respect to the location at which a wake flow during a selected operating condition from the first airfoil row is determined to enter the third airfoil row.
US08297917B1 Flexible support structure for a geared architecture gas turbine engine
A geared architecture with a flex mount for a Fan Drive Gear System defined by a transverse stiffness relationship.
US08297916B1 Flexible support structure for a geared architecture gas turbine engine
A geared architecture with a flex mount for a Fan Drive Gear System defined by a lateral stiffness relationship.
US08297914B2 Fan with impellers coupled in series and fan frame thereof
A fan includes a fan frame, a front impeller and a rear impeller. The fan frame has a frame body and a plurality of connecting elements. The front impeller has a first bushing disposed at the central portion of the frame body. Two ends of each connecting element are respectively connected with the frame body and the first bushing. The rear impeller has a second bushing partially telescoped into the first bushing.
US08297912B2 Fan casing for a gas turbine engine
A fan casing for a gas turbine engine has a fan track radially outward of the fan blades, and the fan track has sufficient strength and stiffness that, if a blade is released, it is broken up and deflected by the fan track rather than passing through to a containment system as in known arrangements. Optionally, a weakened region in the fan track may be provided, so that the leading edge portion of the blade will penetrate the fan track and be contained within the fan casing. This is particularly suitable for fan blades in which the stiffness and compressive strength are significantly higher in the leading edge region than in the remainder of the blade; for example, hollow metal fan blades or composite fan blades having a metal leading edge cap.
US08297905B2 180 degree inverting mechanism
A mechanism for inverting containers or other objects. The mechanism inverts the container or object a full 180 degrees while providing motion control without the use of hydraulic actuators; thereby eliminating the costs, maintenance, environmental issues, and contamination concerns associated with hydraulic systems. The primary application for the inverting mechanism is inverting containers for the purpose of emptying the contents. The mechanism may also be employed to rotate a variety of other objects in other applications.
US08297894B1 ATV locking device
An ATV locking device includes a base frame, at least one wheel abutment plate pivotally carried by the base frame, at least one wheel engaging member pivotally carried by the base frame and at least one locking arm pivotally engaging the at least one wheel abutment plate and the at least one wheel engaging member.
US08297884B1 Floating security barrier
A floating security barrier and method of use includes a plurality of buoys that are placed on a water surface and about a marine structure or platform to be protected. A plurality of trusses are provided, each truss spanning between a pair of buoys. A connection joins each truss at its end portion to a buoy. In one embodiment, the connection is above the center of gravity of the truss. A curtain depends downwardly from each truss, spanning between the truss and the water surface area. The curtain can extend below the surface of the water. The method includes encircling a structure to be protected with a plurality of buoys, each buoy connected with a truss that spans between a pair of buoys. Each truss preferably connects to a buoy at a position that is above the center of gravity of the truss. The method includes hanging a curtain downwardly from its truss, the curtain spanning between the truss and the water surface area. The method includes using the curtain and buoys to disallow any vessel from traveling from a position outside the perimeter to a position within the perimeter.
US08297883B2 Underwater device for ROV installable tools
Methods and apparatus for installing underwater devices on sub-sea structures. The apparatus can include a body having at least one pair of support members extending therefrom. At least one actuator, adapted to move in a linear direction, can be disposed on each support member. At least one connector can be disposed on each actuator. The connector can include at least one aperture disposed therethrough for receiving an attachment member.
US08297882B2 Device and method to split pipe near utilities
Examples of splitter systems and methods are shown. In some examples, a splitter system includes a splitter body. A plurality of blades is attached at different angular locations around a perimeter of the splitter body. In some examples, the plurality of blades have a cutting depth that is less than a thickness of a wall thickness of a pipe to be split. Configurations are further shown that provide lubrication to splitting operations in a number of locations along a splitter system. Configurations are also shown that provide electrical isolation to cutting blades.
US08297881B2 Saltwater intrusion prevention system
A saltwater intrusion prevention system for use at an interface between a fresh water body and a saltwater body includes a water recovery subsystem for recovering fresh water from a fresh water body. A retention reservoir in fluid communication with the water recovery subsystem receives and redirects the recovered fresh water. A saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem in fluid communication with the retention reservoir is positioned at an interface of the fresh water body and the saltwater body. The saltwater intrusion barrier subsystem includes a plurality of submerged return discharge ports for vertically ejecting the recovered fresh water for providing hydraulic mounding zone, and a fine air bubbler header for creating a mixing zone. The hydraulic mounding zone and the mixing zone increase the density of the fresh water for offsetting saltwater from the saltwater body.
US08297880B2 Leaching chamber with continuous curve arch and closely spaced corrugations
A method for treating wastewater in a leaching field comprises forming and burying in soil a continuous curve arch shape cross section injection molded thermoplastic leaching chamber. The chamber has inwardly curving sidewalls perforated with closely spaced horizontal slots and peak corrugations which are closely spaced apart on about 8 inch center-to-center distance or less. The chamber configuration in combination with certain plastic material properties and thickness provide strength sufficient to meet regulatory requirements when the soil above the buried chamber is subjected to load.
US08297879B1 Adjustable method and apparatus for laying, leveling and compacting road shoulders
An apparatus for attachment to dump trucks having a dump bed and a chute for discharging material onto a road shoulder and/or roadway. The apparatus allows the truck with a single operator to perform shoulder and/or roadway surfacing and/or repair by receiving and grading repair material into place. The attachment being adjustable as to pitch, width and depth of the repair material. The attachment being adjustable to allow a greater or lesser amount of material to be applied to a shoulder closer to the roadway surface if a deeper fill is required. The apparatus allows for rotational movement between the apparatus and the dump truck in a direction parallel to the roadways length and perpendicular to the roadways surface. The tires of the dump truck being utilized to compact the repair material. The apparatus being stored in a vertical position when not in use.
US08297874B2 Traffic bearing structure with permeable pavement
A traffic bearing structure with a permeable pavement includes a subgrade, a base positioned on top of the subgrade, and a wear surface positioned on top of the base. The base includes aggregate compacted in a single lift, where the aggregate in the base includes different sized particles mixed together. The wear surface includes a permeable pavement. The particle size distribution of the aggregate in the base is selected to provide adequate stability and permeability for the permeable pavement.
US08297871B2 Plug-in connector
A plug-in connection (1) is provided for hollow profiled elements (2) of spacer holding frames for insulating glass panes. The plug-in connector (1) has at least one connector part (3, 4) including an essentially U-shaped or box-type cross-section, having lateral walls (15, 16), at least one central wall (14), and, on the connection point (8), a central abutment (18) with a plurality of elastic abutment elements (19, 20), on the edge region of the lateral walls (15, 16). The central abutment includes two mutually oriented individual abutment elements (19, 20) which are arranged on both sides of the connection point (8), each on a lateral wall (15, 16), and have a cushioning effect essentially in the plane of the associated lateral wall (15, 16) thereof. The lateral wall (15, 16) have a recess (26) beneath the abutment element (19, 20).
US08297868B2 Retractable electronic pen comprising actuator button decoupled from force sensor
An electronic pen comprises a retractable cartridge having a nib, a force-actuable device that is actuated by a nib force transmitted axially through the cartridge from the nib, a retraction for retracting the cartridge, a button for actuating the retraction mechanism, and a decoupling mechanism for biasing the button away from coupled engagement with the retraction mechanism and thereby the force-actuable device.
US08297866B2 Actuator pouch and method thereof
A pouch comprising a top pouch layer, a bottom pouch layer sealed to the top pouch layer to form a reservoir, wherein the reservoir is configured to hold contents, and an actuator formed from a portion of the top pouch layer, wherein the portion of the top layer is sealed with a corresponding portion of the bottom layer, wherein the actuation of the actuator releases the contents from the reservoir is provided. Furthermore, an associated method is also provided.
US08297864B2 Printer
A printer includes a fixed blade attached to a cover unit; a movable blade that faces a fixed blade, freely reciprocates relative to the fixed blade when the cover unit is closed and cuts the recording medium together with the fixed blade by overlapping the fixed blade during reciprocation; a movable blade driving motor that causes the movable blade to reciprocate; and a movable blade unit that includes the movable blade, the movable blade driving motor, and an accommodating unit accommodating the movable blade and provided at a printer main body. The printer further includes a mechanism that, when the movable blade protrudes from the accommodating unit and is stopped, widens a space over which the fixed blade and the protruding movable blade face each other before the movable blade driving motor accommodates the protruding movable blade in the accommodating unit, as initiated by operation of a cover opening lever.
US08297863B2 Printing roll release mechanism
A printing roll release and retainer mechanism to facilitate the insertion of a printing roller into a printing head of a thermal printer and to facilitate the locking thereof to the printing head and to facilitate the removal of the printing roller from the printing head wherein a holder is provided for receiving and permitting withdrawal of the printing roller and a pair of oppositely spaced members is provided for to hold the shaft roller.A locking-release member is provided for the holder to facilitate locking of the roller to the printing head and removal therefrom, the oppositely spaced members have an arcuate configuration for receiving the shaft and is provided with a pair of portions extending from the ends of the arcuate configuration, the locking release member include spaced members with an arcuate configuration for receiving the shaft when the roller is inserted into the head, and a pair of members are provided for locking the roller to the printing head in one position of the locking-release member and for releasing the roller from the head in another position of the locking-release member.
US08297853B2 Optical connector device
An optical connector device has a first connector including a ferrule for holding an optical fiber and a guide portion projecting longer than the ferrule. The optical connector device also has a second connector for receiving an end of the ferrule along an optical axis of the optical fiber. The second connector includes a receiver for receiving the guide portion and a shutter having a cover part. The shutter is movable between a cover position at which the optical axis intersects the cover part and an open position at which the optical axis does not intersect the cover part. The guide portion is operable to move the shutter from the cover position to the open position when the guide portion is received into the receiver.
US08297848B2 Magnetic encoder and rolling bearing
The magnetic encoder (17) includes a slinger (18) fixed to a rotation-side raceway ring of a bearing and including an outer side surface (22) opposed to the side of a sensor to detect rotation speed of the rotation-side raceway ring and having a surface roughness Ra: 0.3 to 3.0 μm, and an inner side surface (23) opposed to the side of a sealing member (16) to seal the bearing; a multipolar magnet (19) bonded to the outer side surface (22) through an adhesive; and a film (25b) formed on the inner side surface (23), having a surface roughness Ra of 0.3 μm or less, and being in sliding contact with the sealing member (16).
US08297846B2 Bearing arrangement for a pivot bearing
In a bearing arrangement for a pivot bearing (7, 7″) of a roll, on which the conveyor belt (8) revolves, bearing receiving regions (11, 12) of lateral bearing carriers (6) are configured such that they enclose the pivot bearings (7, 7″) only partially and do not jut into the orbit of the conveyor belt (8), wherein the pivot bearings (7, 7″) are held in the bearing receiving regions (11, 12) thereof by the revolving conveyor belt (8).
US08297842B2 Air guide
An air guide includes a slide member and a guide track. The guide track defines a guide hole slidably receiving the slide member. The guide track defines an air intake in an outer surface, a plurality of air outlets in an inner surface opposite to the sliding member, and a plurality of guide holes therein. The guide holes communicates the air intake with the air outlets. The guide track further defines a plurality of guide grooves in the inner surface, communicating with the air outlets.
US08297840B2 Heat activated adhesives for bag closures
A polymeric woven bag has a first panel and a second panel and an open end of the bag to be pinched closed. A first layer of heat activated adhesive material is on a portion of the bag to form an adhesive-to-adhesive seal by contact with a second layer of heat activated adhesive material on a portion of the bag. second panel, wherein the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer have respective heat activation temperatures below the softening point temperature of the polymeric bag material, and wherein sealing the bag end after the bag has been filled with contents by heat activating the first layer of adhesive material and the second layer of adhesive material at a temperature below the softening point temperature of the polymeric bag material.
US08297838B2 Ear cap supplying device, ear cap and ear cap set
An ear cap supplying device, an ear cap and an ear cap set are provided. The ear cap supplying device includes a movable containing device and an output device. The movable containing device is used for containing at least one ear cap. The output device is used for exporting the ear cap(s). When the movable containing device is moved to a predetermined position, the movable containing device activizes the output device to export the ear cap(s). Whereby, problem that the ear cap(s) is/are obstructed during exporting process can be improved.
US08297835B2 Method and regulation system for monitoring a compressor of a gas turbine in particular
A regulation system for a compressor comprises a fiber-optic lattice sensor which makes it possible to determine a flow temperature of a fluid to be compressed by means of the compressor. Another aspect of the invention relates to a use of a fiber-optic Bragg lattice sensor as a temperature sensor in a regulation system.
US08297834B2 Temperature indication apparatus
An indication apparatus for indicating temperature status of a motherboard includes a detection module, a comparison module, a switch module, and an indication module. The detection module detects temperatures of the motherboard, and converts the detected temperatures to voltage signals. The comparison module receives the voltage signals, compares the voltage signals with a first reference voltage, and outputs control signals according to a comparison result. The switch module receives the control signals, and turns on or off according to the control signals. The indication module indicates temperature states of the motherboard when the switch module turns on or off.
US08297831B2 Device for producing a hardenable mass
The present invention relates to a device for producing a hardenable mass, preferably bone substitute and/or bone reinforcing material or bone cement or similar material. A mixing container (3) has a mixing space (4) in which at least one powder and at least one liquid component (5, 6) are mixed to provide the hardenable mass (2). A piston means (7) is provided in the mixing space (4) of the mixing container (3). At least one means (8) which is rotatable relative to the mixing container (3) cooperates with the piston means (7) for, in a retaining position (P1), retaining said piston means (7) relative to the mixing container (3) and, by rotation to a release position (P2), releasing the piston means (7) such that said piston means can move in a direction (U) towards at least one opening (49) through which said mass (2) can pass out of the mixing space (4). The rotatable means (8) is provided such that it in its release position (P2) can follow the piston means (7) in the mixing space (4) in the direction (U) towards said opening (49).
US08297830B2 Slurry system for semiconductor fabrication
A slurry feed system suitable for chemical mechanical planarization (CMP) processes in a semiconductor fabrication facility and related method. The slurry feed system includes a valve manifold box having a discharge piping header fluidly connected to at least one CMP station and a first slurry supply train. The first slurry supply train may include a slurry mixing tank, day tank, and at least two slurry feed pumps arranged in series pumping relationship. The first slurry supply train defines a first slurry piping loop. In one embodiment, a second slurry supply train defining a second slurry piping loop is provided. The valve manifold box is operable to supply slurry from either or both of the first and second slurry piping loops to the CMP station.
US08297823B2 Backlight assembly
A backlight assembly includes a plurality of point light sources, a light guide plate (“LGP”) and a printed circuit board (“PCB”). The LGP has a light incident face in which light is incident, a side surface extending from an edge portion of the light incident face, and a fixing groove which is formed from the side surface toward an inner portion thereof. The PCB includes a point light source disposing portion in which the point light sources are disposed along a first direction, an extending portion extending from the point light disposing portion along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, and a protrusion which is fixed at an end portion of the extending portion. The protrusion of the PCB is coupled with the fixing groove of the LGP.
US08297822B2 Scanner module and image scanning apparatus employing the same
A scanner module and an image scanning apparatus employ an illuminator that includes at least one light emitting diode, a light guide to change the direction of the light from the light emitting diode, and a light source holder to which the light emitting diode is mounted, the light source holder being positioned in relation to the light guide such that the light source holder covers an incidence face of the light guide, on which the light from the light source is incident, the surface of light source holder facing the incidence face reflecting light incident thereupon. The reflection of light by the light source holder reduces the possibility of leakage of light, and can enhance luminous intensity of light of the illuminator.
US08297819B2 Light pipe structure and luminaire with light pipe structure
Disclosed is a light pipe structure configured for transmittal of light rays, the light pipe structure including a light entry end associated with a visible end via a light pipe body, the light entry end being configured for entrance of the light rays, and a depression disposed in a visible surface of the visible end, the depression being disposed substantially along a major axis of the visible surface.
US08297815B2 Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp including a main lamp unit that forms a main light distribution pattern for a headlamp, and an additional lamp unit that emits blue light or mixed light including blue light to form a lane marker irradiation light distribution pattern, wherein the lane marker irradiation light distribution pattern is superimposed onto the main light distribution pattern.
US08297814B2 Vehicle headlamp
A vehicle headlamp includes a first light source configured to emit first light that is projected to form a first irradiation region, a second light source configured to emit second light that is projected to form a second irradiation region joined to the first irradiation region to extend in a transverse direction with respect to an optical axis, a movable shade configured to move between a position at which light irradiation to a joined region of the first irradiation region and the second irradiation region is shielded, and a position at which the light irradiation to the joined region is permitted, and a controller configured to select one of light distribution patterns that are determined by combinations of turning on and off of the first light source, turning on and off of the second light source, and the positions of the movable shade.
US08297810B2 Headlamp in an automobile
A headlamp in an automobile, which is rotatable about a yaw axis when negotiating a bend, has a controller for controlling the rotary movement. In order to improve the illumination of a roadway lying in front of an automobile, the controller may take into account unstable driving situations.
US08297807B1 Elevation adjustable window candle
An elevation adjustable window candle includes a candlestick having axial sliding grooves axially disposed between stop portions and an inside shoulder therein, a candle shaft having springy retaining blocks equiangularly suspending in the bottom side thereof and respectively axially slidably coupled to the sliding grooves in the candlestick to secure the candle shaft to the candlestick at the desired elevation by means of friction resistance, and a lampshell mounted on the top end of the candle shaft and holding a LED lamp module therein.
US08297801B2 Light emitting diode disc optic with heat sink housing
A lamp (10) has a cup-shaped body (12) with a planar bottom (14) with an up-standing, peripheral sidewall (16) defining a top (18). The body (12) is thermally conductive and preferably is a metal such as aluminum. A reflective coating (20) is provided on the inside surface of the planar bottom (14) and side wall (16) for reflecting light generated by a single, side emitting LED (22) that is mounted on a thermally conductive, electrically insulating coupling (24) and is positioned substantially in the center of the planar bottom (14). A lens (26) for directing a beam of light emitted from the LED (22) in a desired direction is provided and preferably is a Fresnel optic. The lens (26) can close the opening (18) as shown in FIG. 1 or it can be formed as an integral part of bottom (14) or it can be added to the bottom (14), as shown in FIG. 2. Alternatively, the lens (26) can be solid with the lens elements either external (FIG. 4) or internal (FIG. 5). Electrical connections (28, 30) to the LED extend through the cup-shaped body (14).
US08297795B2 Illuminating apparatus having light shelters on tubular sidewall
An illuminating apparatus includes a lamp shade, a light source and a plurality of light shelters. The lamp shade includes a tubular sidewall, a receiving space and an opening. The light source is received in the receiving space. The plurality of light shelters is mechanically pivoted on the tubular sidewall. The plurality of light shelters is capable of being respectively and selectively rotated to cover the opening, thereby sheltering light passing through the opening.
US08297794B2 Method for directing light in a fluorescent piece
The method is for directing light in a fluorescent piece. Sequentially placed wedge-shaped pieces form a multiple-piece arrangement. Each piece has a base surface and a sloping top surface so that there is a first pointed end at one end and a short end surface at a second opposite end thereof. The pieces are exposed to light beams that hit fluorescent particles disposed inside the pieces. As a result, the particles emit a fluorescent light that are reflected off the inner surfaces of each piece as long as the light beams do not hit the surface at a perpendicular angle. The light beams are directed to penetrate the short end of each piece to form a continuous illuminated surface.
US08297792B1 LED lamp with adjustable projection angle
An LED lamp with adjustable projection angle is installed to a lamp pole and includes a fixture, a pivot element, a pressing element, a heat dissipating lamp holder and an LED module. The fixture includes a transverse pipe and a cut groove formed at the transverse pipe. The pivot element is passed through the transverse pipe and pivotally coupled to the fixture. The pressing element is installed to the transverse pipe and provided for reducing the cut groove to press and clamp the pivot element. The heat dissipating lamp holder is mounted to the pivot element. The LED module is installed at the heat dissipating lamp holder, and the transverse pipe is used for adjusting the angle of elevation of the heat dissipating lamp holder and the LED module. Therefore, the road lamp can be adjusted to a required projection range to enhance the use efficiency of the road lamp.
US08297791B2 Control network for LED-based lighting system in a transit vehicle
A transit vehicle lighting system has a plurality of LED-based lighting fixtures for providing interior illumination. A control network comprises a plurality of slave nodes for controlling the LED-based lighting fixtures, and a master node for controlling the slave nodes. The master node may be connected to the slave nodes by a combined power/communication bus in a daisy chain fashion. The slave node may include a power regulator and a controller for providing a target current command to the power regulator, and may adjust the target current based upon temperature measurements or a recorded age of the LEDs. An optical sensor may provide automatic dimming. A reduced number of LEDs may be used in an emergency mode. The lighting fixture may include a ceiling panel fixture and a riser panel attachable by way of a hinge mechanism.
US08297789B2 Emergency exit indicator incorporating LED unit
An emergency exit indicator includes a flat housing and a light source received in the housing. The housing has a length greater than a width thereof. The housing includes a panel provided with a sign thereon to indicate emergency exit. The light source includes a plurality of LEDs each being covered by a lens. Light of the LED goes through the lens and is then illuminated on the sign to cause the sign to be visible. The lens has two opposite sides along a lengthwise direction of the housing longer than other two opposite sides along a widthwise direction of the housing, such that the light through the lens along the widthwise direction of the housing is converged in a narrower manner than the light through the lens along the lengthwise direction of the housing.
US08297787B2 LED light bulbs in pyramidal structure for efficient heat dissipation
Disclosed is an LED light bulb having safe and efficient heat dissipation, while also providing maximum light distribution by providing multiple printed circuit boards arranged in a pyramidal structure, having multiple LEDs. The multiple printed circuit boards are connected by conductor wires contained within a transparent housing, so that the multiple printed circuit boards sit on a base of the LED light bulb. A bottom printed circuit board may also be employed if additional circuitry is desired.
US08297783B2 Light emitting device and system providing white light with various color temperatures
In a light emitting device and system providing white light with various color temperatures are provided, a light emitting device includes a light emitting element (LED) that is operated by a driving bias and emits first light, and a phosphor layer including a phosphor that partially wavelength-converts first light and emits second light, thereby emitting white light using the first light and the second light, wherein the phosphor has a maximum conversion efficiency at a first level of the driving bias, and the LED has a maximum conversion efficiency at a second level of the driving bias, the first level being different from the first level.
US08297781B2 Multi-color illuminating back light structure
In an embodiment, the invention provides a multi-color illuminating back light structure comprising a light guide, a reflector, at least one LED and a wavelength converter material. Micro-structures are formed on a first surface of the light guide. The reflector is attached to the first surface of the light guide. A wavelength converter material is deposited on a second surface of the light guide. At least one LED is optically coupled to at least one side of the light guide. A portion of light reflected from the micro-structures and the reflector is converted into light having at least one wavelength different from the wavelength of the reflected light. The light leaving the wavelength converter material comprises light with at least first and second wavelengths.
US08297775B2 Motion activated utility light
A utility light is provided. The utility light comprises a first array of light sources having a first color facing in a first direction, a second array of light sources having a second color facing in a second direction that substantially opposes the first direction, a motion sensor, and an electronic controller to determine a first state based on an input received from the motion sensor, to operate the first array of light sources in the first state, to determine a second state based on the input received from the motion sensor, and to operate the second array of light sources in the second state.
US08297774B2 Booklight with adjustable light-radiating sources
The present invention relates to a booklight which is free-standing or attaches to a book cover, a bed frame or other supporting object to facilitate the reading of a book. Attached to each arm is at least one light-radiating source which may be housed within a shade. The light-radiating source may be an incandescent, fluorescent or LED bulb, or the like, as is known in the art. The angle and direction of each light-radiating source can be manually and separately adjusted by the user to focus light on different areas of the book simultaneously.
US08297773B2 Lighting device, display device and television receiver
The backlight device 12 of the present invention includes a plurality of tubular light sources 17 provided in a parallel arrangement and a light reflecting member 20 arranged on a opposite side from an illuminating side that is illuminated with light from the light sources 17. The arrangement of the tubular includes a narrow pitch area 17a in which an arrangement interval is relatively small and a wide pitch area 17b in which an arrangement interval is relatively large. A dot pattern including a plurality of dots 22 is formed on the light reflecting member 20. Light reflectivity of the dots 22 is different from that of the light reflecting member 20. Light reflectivity of a light reflecting surface including surfaces of the light reflecting member and the dot pattern is low in the narrow pitch area 17a than in the wide pitch area 17b.
US08297766B2 Color tunable light source
A lighting module includes a light output window, at least one side wall that defines a cavity and a mounting plate, and at least one light source, and at least one reflector that is within the cavity. The light output window may be one of the side walls in a side-emitting configuration. The spectral distribution of the light coming out of the light output window may be changed by manipulating the relative position of the side wall to the at least one reflector that is within the cavity.
US08297761B2 Retroreflective articles comprising olefinic seal films
Microstructured articles, such as a retroreflective articles, having a plurality of (e.g. cube-corner) microstructured elements and a seal film layer adhered to portions of the cube-corner elements and/or portions of a (e.g., flexible) body layer. The seal film is a thermoplastic polymeric material comprising reaction products of alkylene in an amount of at least about 50% and reaction products of at least one non-acidic polar monomer.
US08297755B2 Laser projector with alerting light
A projector with a laser light source projects an image. In order to reduce the risk for a person to be exposed to harmful levels of laser light, the projector also projects a time-variant alerting image into an alerting region. Alerting region is arranged outside of the projection region. The alerting image is of a wave length visible to the human eye, and of an intensity of eye-safe level.
US08297754B2 Apparatus and method of controlling camera work based on direction rule
Provided are an apparatus and method of controlling camerawork based on direction rule. A camerawork controlling apparatus includes a direction deciding unit configured to receive dialogs extracted from a scenario, to divide at least one of the received dialogs into sub-elements according to a set of circumstances, and to determine a camerawork based on a direction rule to be applied to each sub-element and each of any remaining non-divided dialogs.
US08297753B2 Method for determining correction characteristics for a vision aid
A method for determining correction characteristics for a vision aid for at least one eye of a person wherein: a vision impression of the person is determined in a first usage condition after which a vision impression of the person is determined in a second usage condition after which the wavefront of the person is optimized by determining the correction characteristics for the vision aid until the vision impression of the person in the second usage condition at least approximately matches the vision impression of the person in the first usage condition.
US08297747B2 Seal for inkjet ink tank
A seal for at least one outlet port of an ink tank, the seal includes a seal member; and a seal retainer further includes a housing for the seal member; a first attachment member on a first side of the housing; a second attachment member on a second side of the housing, the second side being opposite the first side; a handle including a free end and a hinged end opposite the free end; and a hinge member disposed between the housing and the hinged end of the handle.
US08297746B2 Ink cartridge accommodating device
An ink cartridge accommodating device is provided. The ink cartridge accommodating device includes: an accommodating portion which is configured to accommodate a plurality of ink cartridges arranged in an arrangement direction; and a plurality of sensors which are provided correspondingly to the plurality of ink cartridges, and which optically detect information related to the plurality of ink cartridges, respectively. Each of the sensors includes a light-emitting element which emits light and a light-receiving element which receives light. The light-emitting elements or the light-receiving elements of adjacent sensors are arranged adjacent to each other.
US08297745B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus including a body, a print head including a nozzle part having a length corresponding to a width of a printing medium, and a regulator provided separately from the print head and mounted to the body, the regulator serves to adjust a negative pressure of ink which is to be supplied into the print head.
US08297740B2 Head chip usable with inkjet image forming apparatus and manufacturing method of the same
A head chip for an inkjet image forming apparatus. The head chip can include a heater formed on a substrate to generate heat, a chamber layer formed on the heater and provided with an ink chamber that receives inks, a nozzle layer formed on the chamber layer and provided with a nozzle in correspondence with the ink chamber, and a heat transfer layer transferring a part of the heat from the heater to the nozzle. According to the head chip, the inks sprayed through the nozzle are heated by the heat transferred through the heat transfer layer. Thus, the viscosity of the inks is reduced, so that the inks can be easily cut into ink droplets having a substantially spherical shape.
US08297731B2 Recording apparatus capable of checking positions of ink containers, and method for checking the positions
A recording apparatus includes a carriage, ink containers mounted in the carriage and including respective light emitters, a driving unit for moving the ink tanks, a light receiver receiving light from the light emitters, a light control unit controlling lighting the light emitter of a predetermined ink container, and a determining unit for determining whether the predetermined ink container is mounted at a correct position, based on the light emitted from the light emitter of the predetermined ink container at positions. When the driving unit does not move the carriage to a position where at least one of the ink containers is facing the light receiver, the determining unit determines whether the at least one of the ink containers is mounted at the correct position, based on the light received from the light emitters at a position adjacent to the facing position.
US08297729B2 Printing device and printing method
A printing device includes heads that eject electromagnetic wave hardened inks toward a medium and irradiation sections respectively corresponding to the heads. The irradiation sections irradiate the electromagnetic wave hardened inks. A controller controls the heads and the irradiation sections. The controller, when printing, sequentially performs a method that includes the following operations. One head ejects a first ink in a first ejecting operation. An irradiation section corresponding to the head irradiates first electromagnetic ink in a first irradiation operation. A different head ejects another ink toward a pixel on the medium such that the other ink overlaps the first ink, in a second ejecting operation. An irradiation section corresponding to the other head irradiates the other ink in a second irradiation operation. The controller performs the operations such that a contact angle of the other ink relative to the first ink is greater than 90 degrees.
US08297727B2 Recording apparatus and recording method using the same, with an extended stop position of the recording unit
A recording apparatus includes a transport unit that transports a recording medium, a recording unit that performs recording on the recording medium based on record data, a moving unit that moves the recording unit in a direction intersecting a transport direction of the recording medium, a control unit that controls the recording unit, the transport unit and the moving unit, a stop position obtaining unit that calculates a present stop position, which reaches a present recording end position during present deceleration of the recording unit and which reaches a next recording start position during next acceleration of the recording unit, based on present and next record data, a determining unit that determines whether a standby time of the recording unit in a stop state occurs until a transport position.
US08297726B2 Mechanism for moving shelves of a refrigeration appliance and refrigeration appliance
A mechanism, and refrigeration appliance containing a mechanism, for providing displacement of a shelf of a refrigeration appliance, which has at least one refrigeratable cabinet with a base and two side walls substantially perpendicular to the base. The mechanism has at least one supporting device associated to the side wall of the refrigeratable cabinet by a side bar having a longitudinal portion that is substantially parallel to the base. The association between the supporting device and the side bar is able to provide mechanical support to the shelf. The mechanism also comprises a pivoting arm provided with at least one first end which is connected articulatedly to the shelf and a second end connected articulatedly to the supporting device, which associates the shelf to the supporting device. The pivoting arm is able to move angularly so as to allow the displacement of the shelf in relation to the supporting device.
US08297724B2 Drawer frame with a fastening device for a front panel
A drawer frame includes a fastening device for fastening a front panel to the drawer frame in a releasable and preferably adjustable manner. A fitting part is premounted on the front panel, and a spring-loaded catch part is arranged in the drawer frame. When the fitting part is inserted, the catch part automatically draws the fitting part towards the drawer frame. A locking apparatus is provided for the catch part, and the locking apparatus is in the form of a clamping apparatus.
US08297722B2 Soft close drawer assembly and bracket
A cabinet slide assembly permits the soft-close action and/or a soft-open action of a drawer. The cabinet slide assembly includes a cabinet, a drawer, and at least one slide mechanism coupling the drawer to the cabinet to permit movement of the drawer between a fully open position and a fully closed position. A gas spring is also included in the assembly having a first end coupled to a portion of the cabinet assembly and a second end coupled to a portion of the drawer assembly. The gas spring is permitted to swing through an arc along a vertical plane as the drawer moves between the fully open position and the fully closed position. An adjustable bracket can also be included in the assembly and is configured for a top mount drawer assembly having a concealed drawer slide mechanism. The bracket is also configured for face frame or frameless cabinet construction.
US08297721B2 Slide rail
A slide rail includes an outer rail, an intermediate rail slidably received in the outer rail, a first inner rail slidably received in the intermediate rail opposite to the outer rail, a second inner rail slidably received in the intermediate rail opposite to the outer rail, a protuberance disposed on the first inner rail, a latch member connected to the second inner rail, and a releasing member connected to the outer rail. The first and second inner rails are arranged adjacent to opposite first and second ends of the outer rail. The latch member is capable of engaging with or disengaging from the protuberance. When the first inner rail slides out of the outer rail from the first end, the releasing member is configured to abut against the latch member and urge the latch member to disengage from the protuberance.
US08297717B2 Vehicle line-locking braking system and method
The present disclosure relates to various computer-implemented methods of line-locking a hydraulic vehicle braking system. A method includes performing a preliminary system check and controlling the distribution of fluid between a hydraulic module and an individual wheel-end brake component when the preliminary check is satisfied. The system continues to monitor predetermined vehicle inputs during activation.
US08297715B2 Braking system
A braking system includes first pressure sensors 35, 35 which are provided to braking pipes 41, 41 which constitute first input-side pressure sensors for detecting a liquid pressure on a front-wheel-master-cylinder-25 side and a rear-wheel-master-cylinder-82 side, and second pressure sensors 36, 36 which are provided at positions closer to a stroke-simulator-28 side than second solenoid-operated valves 31, 31 of braking pipes 27,27 which constitute second input-side pressure sensors for detecting a liquid pressure on the stroke-simulator-28 side.
US08297711B2 Circular bicycle rim
A circular bicycle rim is provided with a rim body, an annular tire engagement portion and first and second outer peripheral edges. The rim body includes a first annular side wall portion and a second annular side wall portion. The annular tire engagement portion extends between the first and second annular side wall portions to engage a tire thereon. The first and second outer peripheral edges are located between the rim body and the annular tire engagement portion. Each of the first and second outer peripheral edges has an uneven edge surface that repeatedly rises and falls with respect to a radial direction of the bicycle rim.
US08297707B2 Movable support leg
A movable support leg contains a base, a column disposed on the base, a holding surface fixed on the column. The holding surface is fixed and capable of adjusting its height and angle by using first and second rods and the column. A top end of each of the first and the second rods is axially connected with the holding surface by using one screw, and a bottom end of each of the first and the second rods adjusts its height to be fixed on the column.
US08297706B2 Ergonomic chair
An ergonomic desk system and chair for promoting hip flexibility and strength and reducing lower back pain. The ergonomic desk system broadly comprises a variably positioned, raised platform, mounting assemblies for office peripherals, a recessed storage unit mounted on an underside of the platform, a lumbar support coupled to the platform, and a stool. Use of the desk system allows a user to sit on the platform in numerous positions while still performing routine office work. The ergonomic chair broadly comprises a base, a first, lower platform, and a second, upper platform spaced above the first, lower platform. The user sits on the second platform and rests their legs on the first platform in various positions. Use of the ergonomic chair results in the user rotating their pelvis to a position that is comfortable and properly aligned.
US08297705B2 Adjustable head restraint for an automotive vehicle seat
A head restraint system for an automotive vehicle seat includes a post having first and second end portions, a support member fixedly attached to the second end portion of the post, and a head rest assembly. The support member includes a locking feature. The head rest assembly includes a housing supported by the support member, a locking member, and an actuator configured to move the locking member from a locked position with the locking feature to an unlocked position from the locking feature to permit the headrest assembly to move relative to the post and support member.
US08297704B2 Connector for vehicle seat
A connector for a vehicle seat includes a ratchet, a guide, and engagement pieces. The engagement pieces are supported so as to be movable only in the radial direction of the guide, and prevent relative rotation between the ratchet and the guide when engaged with an inner peripheral toothed face of the ratchet. The inner peripheral toothed face is formed in the inner peripheral face of an annular wall that extends from the outer peripheral portion of a disc portion of the ratchet in its axial direction. The inner peripheral face is in contact with and supported by outer peripheral faces of guide walls that project in the axial direction from the inner disc face of the guide. Thus, the ratchet and the guide are coaxially fitted together so as to be rotatable relative to each other.
US08297703B2 Fold-down vehicle seat
A fold-down vehicle seat is provided having a seat part and a foldable backrest. The seat part is mounted so it is pivotable on the vehicle floor via a front rocker and the backrest is mounted so it is pivotable on a seat framework section using a lower end section. In such a vehicle seat, the seat part and the backrest are transferable into a first and a second folded position to enlarge a cargo area of the vehicle adjoining the vehicle seat, the seat part being coupled using a rear rocker to the backrest, and the seat framework section supporting the backrest situated so it is displaceable on the vehicle floor in the vehicle longitudinal direction.In this way, a fold-down driver seat is provided, which has a high degree of user friendliness and is universally adaptable to various cargo space configurations.
US08297696B2 Bicycle saddle
A bicycle saddle includes front and rear portions; an elastic member disposed between the front and rear portions; and a valve assembly installed to the bottom of the saddle between the front and middle portions and including an air pump and an air escape valve communicating with the elastic member.
US08297695B1 Portable cooling device
A cooling system which having a body section which includes a flexible material; at least two mist dispensing fans connected to the body section; and control circuitry having at least a first switch controlling fan speed and a second switch controlling mist dispensing.
US08297691B2 Roof liner stiffener for a vehicle
A roof liner stiffener includes a rail and a first guide member. The rail is configured for attachment to a roof liner of a vehicle and includes a web and a plurality of ribs integral with the web. The first guide member is configured to support a first portion of an electrical wiring harness of a vehicle. The rail and the first guide member are integrally formed from a thermoplastic material as a unitary structure. The first guide member includes a first base and an elongate arm integral with, and extending away from, the first base. The elongate arm of the first guide member is bendable relative to the first base of the first guide member. Roof liner assemblies and vehicles are also provided.
US08297690B2 Motor vehicle body
A motor vehicle body has at least two sills running laterally in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle. An auxiliary frame is provided in a region of a front axle and at least one strut is provided, the strut running between the auxiliary frame of the front axle and one of the two lateral sills. This makes it possible in particular to increase the natural frequency of a vehicle front end by structurally simple and also cost-effective measures.
US08297689B2 Indexing door latch striker enabling complex door articulation
A door of a vehicle is moveable between a closed position, an intermediate position and an open position. When moving between the closed position and the intermediate position, a first vertical edge of the door moves parallel with a body of the vehicle and a second rearward vertical edge of the door moves laterally away from the body of the vehicle. A striker assembly for the door is attached to the body and includes a striker that is moveable between a first position and a second position. A latch mechanism selectively engages the striker when the door is disposed in or moving between the closed position and the intermediate position, with the striker moving with the first edge of the door between the closed position and the intermediate position to prevent lateral movement of the door.
US08297685B2 Air guiding device
The air guiding device has one or more air guiding bodies. Each air guiding body has an elongate attachment that extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle that bulges in a convex manner, is composed of a flexible or soft-elastic material and is embodied in the form of a half shell having a lateral elongate opening and can be adjusted automatically in the driving condition from a rest position into an operative position, in which it can be lowered in the direction of the roadway. In the rest position, the air guiding body is arranged close to the undersurface and, in the operative position, the air guiding body is held in a lowered position relative to the undersurface.
US08297683B2 Mounting frame member for motor vehicle tailgate having frameless window pane
A mounting frame member is provided for framing and sealing a frameless window pane of an after-market motor vehicle tailgate intended to replace a tailgate having a different structure. The mounting frame member includes a mounting frame body mounted to the motor vehicle, the mounting frame body including an integrally formed sealing weatherstrip at an inner peripheral region thereof. A supplemental sealing weatherstrip may be provided adjacent the sealing weatherstrip of the mounting frame body and over the frameless window pane. Accordingly, a single, unitary BIW structure may be utilized when effectuating after-market structural changes or replacements to an existing tailgate.
US08297678B2 Retractable seat for vehicle
A retractable seat for a vehicle includes: a first leg with a proximal end that is rotatably attached to a seat cushion and a distal end that is rotatably attached to a floor; a second leg that is rotatably attached to the seat cushion; and an interlocking member that couples the first leg to the second leg so that the second leg is move in accordance with movement of the first leg. Rotating the first leg with respect to the floor moves the seat cushion from a use position to a retracted position. The rotation of the second leg through the interlocking member, from a position at which a second leg stands upright with respect to the seat cushion to a position which the second leg extends along the seat cushion.
US08297677B2 Vehicle cargo bed extender
An improved truck bed extender particularly adapted for ease of installation and removal. When not being used to extend the truck bed, the extender is advantageously adapted to quickly and easily create a secondary storage area. In one embodiment, the extender includes a first side wall, a second side wall, a connecting wall, a first mount and a second mount. The connecting wall extends between the first side wall and the second side wall, and cooperates with the first side wall and second side wall to form a frame. The first mount is secured to the first side wall and includes a first interlocking member. The second mount is secured to the second side wall and comprises a second interlocking member. The first interlocking member and a first mounting station on the vehicle and the second interlocking member and a second mounting station on the vehicle cooperate to secure the truck bed extender to the vehicle.
US08297676B2 Vehicle interior trim panel
A vehicle interior trim panel is provided with a main trim body and a tab extending from the bottom end of the main trim body. The main trim body is configured to releasably cover at least a portion of a pillar of a vehicle, and includes a pillar facing surface, a passenger compartment facing surface, a top end and a bottom end. The tab extends from the bottom end of the main trim body to a free end that is configured to be received in a vehicle component. The tab includes a first face, a second face and a peripheral edge surrounding the first and second faces, and further includes a retention member protruding from the first face of the tab, with the retention member being configured to retain the tab to the vehicle component while the main trim body is released from the pillar.
US08297675B2 Interior trim part for a passenger compartment of a vehicle, and method for producing an interior trim part
An interior trim part for a passenger compartment of a vehicle has a shaped part which has a front side which forms a decorative wear layer of the interior trim part, and having at least one carrier layer which forms a rear side of the interior trim part, at least one part region of the interior trim part being provided with at least one supporting structure which provides a pleasant tactile sensation at the surface of the part region, the shaped part having at least one connecting element which is attached to the carrier layer of the rear side of the internal trim part, and the supporting structure being formed as a separate supporting element and being held by the connecting element of the shaped part. Moreover, a method for producing an interior trim part for a passenger compartment of a vehicle is also provided.
US08297671B2 Claw for a container transporting system
A clamp grip for a container transport system including rare earth permanent magnets encapsulated in non-magnetic material such as high quality steel. Flexible positioning of the magnets allow for adapting to varied design specifications. A rotatable control cam or cams may be used to adjust grip arms between a grip and a release position. Air gap distances between permanent magnets may be designed to maximize repelling force to assist in the functioning of clamp grip mechanism.
US08297670B2 Implements
An implement comprises a first member, at least a second member secured at one end of the first member; and at least one piece of material overlapping a junction between the first member and the second member. The implement is made by securing the second member at one end of the first member; and overlapping the junction between the first member and the second member with a piece of material smoothing a surface at the junction.
US08297664B2 Fastening flange
A flange for fastening a line to a pump casing, includes: a pump casing passage; and a plurality of stop members protruding in the passage and angularly distributed around the passage, the position of the flange being angularly adjustable by the stop members. A pump may include the fastening flange. A method for adjusting the position of the flange in relation to the pump is also disclosed. This method makes it possible to avoid the position of the pump casing being imposed by the orientation of the fastening flange of the pump casing.
US08297663B2 Rotatable fire sprinkler fitting with elongated gasket
A pipe fitting, useable in the installation of a sprinkler head, includes (a) a body having an open upstream end and an open downstream end, the downstream end having internal threads capable of accepting a threaded male fitting, the body defining a gasket retention area located upstream of the internal threads; and (b) an gasket disposed within the gasket retention area. The gasket retention area and the gasket are chosen so that a threaded male fitting threadedly disposed within the downstream end of the body can be rotated within the downstream end of the body 360° while remaining liquid tight for pressures in excess of 300 psig.
US08297659B2 Quick connector assembly
The quick connector assembly includes an insertion member that is inserted along a longitudinal axis into a receiving member. A retaining member is disposed in the receiving member for movement in a direction of insertion that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A positioning member is disposed in the receiving member and includes a biasing portion that extends angularly from a base portion to a pair of blocking portions. The blocking portions move between an extended position and a retracted position and are oriented opposite the direction of insertion of the retaining member to block the retaining member from moving into a fully inserted position when the biasing portion is in the extended position. An annular collar of the insertion member engages the blocking portions when the insertion member is axially inserted in the receiving member to move the blocking portions into the retracted position. As a result, the retaining member is free to be moved into the fully inserted position to secure the insertion member relative to receiving member.
US08297658B2 Coupling device fitted with instantaneous or quasi-instantaneous anchor means
A coupling device comprising a tubular body defining a channel and axially subdivided into an anchor section provided on the outside with an anchor member associated with a cover mounted on the body to have both an actuator end for actuating the anchor member and a drive end, and so as to be movable between an inactivation position and an activation position, a resilient return member urging the cover towards the activation position being mounted in a chamber defined by the cover and the body, the cover having a holder device for holding it in the inactivation position, which holder device is arranged to be declutchable when the cover is moved into a declutching position beyond its inactivation position in a direction away from the activation position, and the device including a passage for putting the chamber into communication with the well.
US08297653B2 Pyrotechnic inflator with composite overwrap
A pyrotechnic inflator assembly including a shell member and an end cap joinable with the shell member to form a subassembly. The subassembly containing a quantity of pyrotechnic material and at least in part defining a combustion chamber wherein at least a portion of the quantity of pyrotechnic material is reactable to form product gas for inflation of an associated airbag cushion and to generate pressure within the combustion chamber. The inflator assembly further including an overwrap about at least a portion of the subassembly to form a pyrotechnic inflator assembly that withstands the pressure generated within the combustion chamber upon reaction of the pyrotechnic material.
US08297651B2 Pre-crash side air bag device
A pre-crash side airbag device includes a side collision detection sensor, a pre-crash sensor, a main airbag, an auxiliary airbag, and a control unit. The side collision detection sensor detects a collision occurring at the side of a vehicle. The pre-crash sensor detects physical quantities related to the speed of an approaching object. The main airbag is deployed when a control signal is input. The auxiliary airbag is coupled to one side of the main airbag. The control unit controls the deployment of the main airbag and the auxiliary airbag depending on a pre-crash case where a high-speed side collision is expected and a normal case where a low-speed side collision is expected or the measurement value is erroneous.
US08297644B2 Trash bin with detachable cart
The present invention is directed to a trash cart, namely an enclosed trash cart having a top and front doors that swing open on a hinged system. The enclosed trash cart is connected to at least one wheel axle having wheels that allow the cart to be transported from a storage area to the curb for garbage pickup. The trash cart can also have an attachment system that gives the owner the option of overlaying a number of different external decorative panels to the trash cart making the cart both functional and decorative. The trash cart of the present invention enables a homeowner to store daily garbage outside the home or garage in a decorative enclosure that keeps the garbage protected from animals and makes it easy to transport garbage to the curb on pick-up day.
US08297640B2 Snow-ski board
Snow-ski board, especially a ski, having at least one trimming mechanism with at least one trimming rod with its axis oriented in the longitudinal direction of the snow-ski board, including at least one damping element and at least one adjusting or tensioning mechanism for supporting the trimming rod on both ends by adjustable mechanical tension.
US08297637B2 Watercraft trailer
A watercraft trailer has a watercraft receiving portion and a lower frame adapted to support a watercraft in the watercraft receiving portion. The lower frame has at least one longitudinally extending lower frame member. The trailer also has a hitch coupler connected to a front of the lower frame, a first wheel and a second wheel operatively connected to the lower frame, and a walk board connected to the lower frame.
US08297634B2 Suspension system for an agricultural vehicle
An agricultural vehicle comprises separate wheel suspension assemblies corresponding to each wheel of the vehicle. Each wheel suspension assembly includes a strut assembly wherein the strut assembly is connected to the chassis at a pivot and to a respective wheel, and a dual action hydraulic cylinder that is connected to both the strut assembly at a point distal from the pivot and the chassis of the vehicle. Motion of the strut assembly around the pivot is affected by action of the hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, the dual action hydraulic cylinders are in fluid communication with the diagonally opposite hydraulic cylinder such that when one cylinder moves into an extended or retracted position the other diagonally opposite cylinder is urged into the same position. In some embodiments, the wheel suspension assemblies are attached to slidable drawer assemblies on each side of the vehicle. These drawer assemblies can be moved relative to the centerline of the vehicle to change the spacing between the wheels on each side of the vehicle.
US08297633B2 Support bearing for a vehicle
A support bearing for a vehicle is provided that includes, but is not limited to a rubber bearing that encloses one end of a strut element and introduces the lateral and longitudinal forces of the strut into a vehicle body. A ball bearing allows rotational movements between a spring element and the car body. For this purpose, the ball bearing of the support bearing is supported on the car body with a ball bearing race that features a first ball track. A second ball track of the ball bearing is arranged on a rubber bearing housing together with one end of the spring element.
US08297632B2 Steering knuckle and method of forming same
A steering knuckle for a vehicle includes a metal body having a first portion defining a bore therethrough and a second portion extending longitudinally from said first portion. The steering knuckle also includes a ceramic insert disposed with the first portion and the second portion and surrounding the bore. A method of forming the steering knuckle includes disposing the ceramic insert within a cavity of a mold, sufficiently filling the cavity with a molten metal to contact and envelop the ceramic insert with the molten metal, and solidifying the molten metal so as to surround the ceramic insert with the metal body to thereby form the steering knuckle.
US08297630B2 Bi-directional propulsion caster
A bidirectional propulsion caster assembly is disclosed for enabling a rider to generate bi-directional motion from a ride-on device. A mounting bracket is attachable to the bottom of the device and defines a pivot axis extending in a generally transverse direction across the bottom of the device. A rocker bracket and caster shaft having a caster shaft axis are attached to the mounting bracket and pivot about the pivot axis along an arc between first and second positions. A wheel bracket is mounted to and rotates about the caster shaft. A wheel is mounted to the wheel bracket for rotation about a wheel axis angularly offset from the caster shaft axis. One or more changeable pivot stops may be attached to the rocker bracket or the mounting bracket and effective to further define the available arc of rotation.
US08297629B2 Stackable shopping basket
The invention relates to a shopping basket in self service stores and/or supermarkets, of the type of those which can be stacked and incorporate rolling means (5) at their base and a drive handle (4) for transporting them in an inclined manner on the floor in which said drive handle (4) is located on a plane different from the load application plane, and further having its corners reinforced by means of bends (3) defining a plane (6) on which the side branches (7) of said handle (4) slide with the aid of guide means.
US08297627B2 Skate with an accessible runner securing system and methods thereof
A blade for a skate includes a holder, a runner, and an attachment device. The holder includes a front section and a rear section where at least one of the front section and the rear section includes at least two, separate hollow regions and an aperture. The aperture extends through the holder between the at least two, separate hollow regions. The attachment device extends through a substantially solid portion of the holder between the two, separate hollow regions into the aperture and secures the runner to the holder. At least a portion of the attachment device used to secure the runner to the holder is accessible in the aperture.
US08297626B2 Pressure seal
A seal is provided that restricts movement of adjacent parts when in a high pressure environment while allowing relative movement of adjacent parts when in non-high pressure environment.
US08297625B2 Two-lip rubber seal with reinforcement
A seal for sealing a cardan shaft housing, particularly at a contact surface between an outer ring and a housing lid, has a first sealing element that at least partially covers the contact surface plane to be sealed, as well as a first shape-stabilizing element that is at least partially firmly connected with the first sealing element. A second sealing element is at least partially firmly connected on the shape-stabilizing element.
US08297623B2 Swivel device
The invention relates to a sealing device for a swivel, an improved attachment device and a method for improving a seal in a swivel, where a sealing medium is composed according to the viscosity and chemical composition of the application concerned and has a viscosity substantially over 500 cst and where the sealing medium is pressurized by a pressure transmission unit.
US08297622B2 Image processing program and image processing apparatus
A game apparatus 3 moves an arrow object 72 in a virtual space, and then determines whether or not a hitting determination area 74 set for the arrow object 72 is in contact with a hitting determination area 73 set for a player character 71. When the two hitting determination areas 74, 73 are determined to be in contact with each other, the game apparatus 3 calculates a moving direction of the arrow object 72. The game apparatus 3 further causes the player character 71 to perform a motion such that at least a part of the player character 71 turns to a designated direction, which is an opposite direction to the moving direction of the arrow object 72. A display apparatus displays how the player character 71 performs the motion.
US08297620B1 Marble board game
A marble board game which may be played by two to four players. In one embodiment, the game board includes an orange player's station, a red player's station, a blue player's station and a white player's station. The object of the game is to move a player's marbles from their colored box into a start position and then across the board to the opponent's station. In another embodiment, the game board includes only two player's stations.
US08297618B2 Puzzle with problem-solution features aligning puzzle pieces with a corresponding support board location
A puzzle is described that enhances the educational and enjoyment aspect of assembling the puzzle by providing a plurality of problem-solution pairs that serve to direct and/or confirm that puzzle pieces are positioned correctly. One half of the problem-solution pairs may be placed on the back of individual puzzle pieces with the other half on intended adjacent pieces or other they may be placed on a base board with the complementary half on the back of the pieces intended to be placed above the corresponding problem-solution pair. The puzzle is so designed that it may be configured as a 2-dimensional puzzle or a 3-dimensional puzzle and may be provided in electronic form if so desired.
US08297614B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a cassette having a stacking region for stacking recording materials mounted to main assembly of the recording apparatus; a feeder for feeding the recording material stacked to the cassette; a sheet discharge portion for sheet discharging the recording material having been subjected to a recording operation; a tray movable between a first position where the recording material is incapable of being discharged from the sheet discharge portion and a second position where the recording material is capable of being discharged from a main assembly of the recording apparatus; a holding portion, disposed on the tray, for holding the recording material discharged when the tray is at the second position; an auxiliary portion disposed on the tray and capable of stacking the recording material with the stacking region when the tray is at the second position.
US08297613B2 Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A packing material for distribution is formed in such a shape that, when the packing material attached in a deck unit fails to be removed, a control unit determines that no sheet is present on a tray based on detection signals from a sheet surface detection sensor and a sheet presence detection sensor. When a user checks the deck unit when the absence of sheets is displayed, the user can notice a failure to remove the packing material, thus preventing damage to a sheet feeding apparatus caused by the failure to remove the packing material for distribution.
US08297612B2 Apparatus for detecting media edges in a media input tray
A media picking device for an image forming apparatus having a sensing mechanism for detecting the leading and trailing edge of a sheet of media being picked from a media input tray. The device includes a pick mechanism for picking the top-most media sheet; and a sensing mechanism including a sensor and a flag positioned adjacent the pick tire and moveable between at least two positions, the flag having a first end contacting the surface of a picked sheet; the flag moving from a first position to a second position when the leading edge of the picked sheet passes by and moving from the second position to the first position when the trailing edge of the picked sheet passes by. The sensing mechanism providing an output signal corresponding to the movement of the flag. The sensor is one of a photointerrupter, a proximity sensor, a potentiometer, and a switch.
US08297609B2 Equipment for making an album core automatically
The present utility model relates to an equipment for making an album core automatically, which comprises automatic feeding mechanisms for feeding an album paper and an interlayer, a creasing mechanism for creasing the middle of the album paper to form a crease, a folding mechanism for folding the album paper along the crease and a pasting mechanism for pasting the album or the interlayer by coating glue, wherein the automatic feeding mechanisms include an album paper feeding mechanism, an interlayer feeding mechanism and a control mechanism connected to the two feeding mechanisms. The equipment in the utility model has higher automaticity and can select the kinds of album papers freely.
US08297608B2 Electrodynamic propulsion system for conveying sheet material
A transport system for conveying sheet material along a feed path. The transport system includes an electro-dynamic propulsion system for moving sheet material, or a stacked collation of sheet material, along a support deck which defines the feed path. More specifically, the electro-dynamic propulsion system includes at least one guideway and a ferromagnetic element disposed internally of the guideway. The guideway includes a magnetic coil to produce a variable magnetic field. By varying the flux density and polarity of the magnetic field the ferromagnetic element may be propelled within the guideway. An abutment member is coupled to the ferromagnetic element, extends through the elongate opening of the support deck and engages an edge of sheet material. A processor is operative to control the electro-dynamic propulsion system and, accordingly, the rate of travel and position of the sheet material along the feed path.
US08297603B2 Spring retainer and spring system
A spring retainer is made from an iron-based material to improve the strength and abrasion resistance of the spring retainer and reduce the thickness and weight thereof. The spring retainer includes a retainer body having a tapered support hole to be supported with a valve stem and a flange-like spring seat circumferentially formed on a periphery at a first side of the retainer body to receive and support a valve spring. The retainer body and spring seat are integrally formed from resilient steel with grain flows continuously formed from the retainer body to the spring seat.
US08297602B2 Vibration isolator
A vibration isolator having a pair of pressure receiving fluid chambers between an outer cylinder and a mounting member, at two end sides along a main amplitude direction. A rubber elastic body changes the internal volumes of the pair of pressure receiving fluid chambers in directions opposite to each other, and fluid flows from the pressure receiving fluid chambers to an auxiliary fluid chamber through one of two orifices and flows from the auxiliary fluid chamber to the pressure receiving fluid chambers through the other orifice. Since a fluid pressure in the auxiliary fluid chamber is kept approximately constant, the fluid in the pair of pressure receiving fluid chambers smoothly flows, with a low resistance, into the auxiliary fluid chamber through the orifices. Therefore, any rise of the fluid pressure in the pressure receiving fluid chambers may be suppressed, such that rise of the dynamic spring constant may be suppressed.
US08297601B2 Vibration dampening material and method of making same
The present invention is directed to a material adapted to reduce vibration and, more specifically, to a material adapted to dissipate and evenly distribute transmitted vibrations. The material is particularly suited for impact and/or heavy load vibration resistance.
US08297596B2 Manually operated prying tool
A manually operated prying tool includes a prying head and a handle. The head is defined at its end with an assembling hole in which are disposed a head portion of a handle of the prying tool, a ratchet wheel, a C-shaped ring, a central shaft, a spring and a stopping piece. By pushing the central shaft, the prying tool can be switched into a fixing mode, an adjustment mode, or a rotation operation mode, which allows the user to unidirectionally rotate the tool to perform a micro-angle adjustment between the prying head and the handle of the prying tool, making it convenient to use the tool.
US08297595B2 Adjustable hydraulic horizontal jack
An adjustable hydraulic horizontal jack including a frame, a hydraulic unit, a jib unit, link rods, and a handle. Here, the structures of the jib and the link rod(s) are improved according to an embodiment. With the improved structures, the jack has rational structures and can act reliably. In addition, under the parameters equivalent to those of conventional hydraulic horizontal jacks, the jack of an embodiment of the present invention can change the height of the lowest position and the load by adjusting the length of the jib and link rods. Therefore, the jack is adapted to jacking up not only a light automobile with a low chassis but also a heavy automobile with a high chassis, thus having a wider scope of application.
US08297594B1 Utility tool for use with a motor vehicle
A tool for disconnecting the air and electrical connections between a motor vehicle and a trailer or a utility hookup station includes a handle and a forked member. The trailer connection includes an electrical socket with pins covered by a hinged cover plate; the motor vehicle connection includes a plug member. The forked member of the tool includes a pair of parallel hooks, one at the end of each of two linear elements of the forked member. A sloped interface portion on the forked member of the tool lifts the hinged cover plate away from the trailer's socket. The forked member is placed around the electrical connection adjacent the plug member and is pushed forward to lift the hinged cover plate. Once the hinged cover plate is lifted, the handle is pushed towards the motor vehicle, where the hooks engage lugs on the plug member, thus causing the plug member to separate from the electrical socket. Gripping grooves on the linear elements help to facilitate engagement between the tool and the lugs. Projections extending from the forked portion of the tool can be used to engage the air line connectors between a motor vehicle and a trailer or a utility hookup station to separate the air lines. A kingpin pulling slot may also be included on the tool.
US08297585B2 Load suspension stand and microscopy system
A load suspension stand includes a first stand member, a second stand member, a joint pivotably connecting the first with the second stand member, a cam plate rotatably fixed to the first stand member, a load transmission lever, an abutment pivotably supporting the load transmission lever at the second stand member, a load reservoir, acting on the second stand member and on the load transmission lever in order to exert a force F1 on the cam plate by means of the load transmission lever, and a drive for displacing the abutment relative to the load transmission lever.
US08297582B2 Vehicle seat sliding apparatus
A vehicle seat sliding apparatus having a lower rail adapted to be fixed to a vehicle floor and an upper rail adapted to be fixed to a seat and connected to the lower rail so as to be movable with respect to the lower rail includes: a lock lever adapted to be connected rotatably to the upper rail and engaged with the lower rail for selectively the movement of the upper rail with respect to the lower rail; an operating lever adapted to be connected rotatably to a supporting bracket adapted to support the seat in the direction of rotation different from the direction of rotation of the lock lever above the lock lever; and a connecting rod adapted to be connected at one end and the other end directly to the lock lever and the operating lever respectively, and adapted to transmit an operating force to release restriction of the movement with respect to the lock lever by a pressing operation in association with the rotation of the operating lever.
US08297576B2 Fixture mounting bracket assembly
A fixture mounting bracket assembly is strong, easy to install, self-leveling, adjustable in multiple directions, and removable so that it results in little or no visible damage when removed from the wall. The fixture mounting bracket assembly includes a base assembly, an elbow, and a fixture support assembly.
US08297573B1 Work bench support and attachment assembly
A support and attachment assembly configured for attachment to a substrate structure. The assembly includes a rigid body comprising a front surface, a back surface, and a bottom surface. A hinge flange extends from the front surface, a boss member extends from the bottom surface, and a latching member is coupled to the body. The support and attachment assembly is attached to the substrate structure by insertion of the hinge flange into a hinge aperture in the substrate structure. The body is rotated while the hinge flange remains in the hinge aperture to insert the boss member into a boss aperture through the substrate structure and to bring the bottom surface into facing relation with a top surface of the substrate structure. The latching member then contactingly engages the substrate structure to lockingly secure the assembly to the substrate structure.
US08297571B2 Display hanging structure
A display hanging structure hangs a display on the wall. The display has a rear portion, and the display hanging structure includes at least two hangers, a shaft and at least one fixing block. The hangers are disposed at the rear portion, and each hanger has a hole disposed at an identical altitude comparative to the other hole. The shaft is axial shaped and is disposed in the holes. The fixing block is disposed on the wall and contains a slot for receiving the shaft. Whereby, the display may be firmly stuck on the wall by placing the shaft in the slots.
US08297567B1 Stabilizing device, along with modular configurations incorporating the same
A stabilization device is provided that includes a resilient body that has an upper surface and a lower surface. The body includes a first set of teeth located on the upper surface and distributed about a first axis. The teeth are spaced apart from one another by a selected pitch. The body also includes a second set of teeth located on the upper surface and distributed about a second axis. Like the first set the second set of teeth are spaced apart a selected second pitch. The first and second sets of teeth are offset from each other along either the first or second axis. The lower surface of the body preferably includes a similar arrangement of teeth.
US08297564B2 Fluid control system for use with a patient support apparatus
A fluid control system for use with a patient support apparatus is moveable from a first height to a second height. The system includes a lift arm and a substantially upright cylinder. A first end of the lift arm is pivotably coupled to a base member and a second end of the lift arm is coupled to a chair structure. The cylinder assembly has a base portion and an extendable member configured to contact and support the lift arm. The cylinder assembly includes a bypass valve having a first end in fluid contact with an upper reservoir and a second end in fluid contact with a lower reservoir.
US08297563B2 Lifting device for chair including force distributing pressing and locking sleeves
A lifting device for a chair includes an upright support post, a tapered locking sleeve adjustably mounted on the support post, a tapered pressing sleeve mounted on the locking sleeve, a stepping ring having a mounting tube which is mounted on the pressing sleeve, and a dustproof cover abutting a top of the mounting tube of the stepping ring and secured on a top of the pressing sleeve. Thus, the pressing sleeve surrounds the locking sleeve to distribute the pressing force evenly, and the locking sleeve surrounds the support post to distribute the pressing force evenly so as to prevent the pressing sleeve and the locking sleeve from being worn out or broken due to a stress concentration and to enhance the lifetime of the lifting device.
US08297557B1 Railroad crossing gate height adjustment assembly and method
A railroad crossing gate height adjustment assembly and method for reestablishing a height of the crossing gate of a railroad crossing gate apparatus. An elongated externally threaded pipe has a reducer threadably engageable at a lower, smaller end thereof onto, and is adjustably positionable along a length of the threaded pipe. A larger, upper end of the reducer is threadably lockable with a coupling previously secured at a lower end of a wiring conduit of the gate apparatus whereby the length of the wiring conduit is adjustably increased by an exposed length of the threaded pipe. A bushing having an external thread is lockably engageable onto a top surface of a gate base of the gate apparatus after the coupling and connected wiring conduit are removed, the bushing also having an external thread thereon for supportively receiving a lower end of the threaded pipe.
US08297556B2 Window element for insertion in a window cutout in an outer skin of an aircraft
A window element for insertion in a window cutout in an outer skin of an aircraft, with a window frame for accommodating a window package and a press-on frame. The window frame can be attached to the inside of the outer skin in the region of the window cutout and can be riveted to the external skin, wherein for attaching the press-on frame at least one press-on frame fitting is connected to the window frame and to the outer skin, in particular is riveted to the window frame and to the outer skin, and the window frame comprises an essentially L-shaped or rectangular cross-sectional geometric shape.
US08297555B2 Systems and methods for reducing noise in aircraft fuselages and other structures
Systems and methods for reducing noise in aircraft fuselages and other structures are described herein. A noise reduction system configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an auxetic core, a damping layer, and a constraining layer. A method for manufacturing a structural assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the invention includes forming a stiffener by positioning a first ply of composite material against a first tool surface, positioning damping material against the first ply, and positioning a second ply of composite material against the damping material to sandwich the damping material between the first and second plies. The method can further include forming a skin by positioning a third ply of composite material against a second tool surface offset from the first tool surface, and attaching the stiffener to the skin by co-curing the first, second and third plies of composite material.
US08297552B2 Helicopter landing pad
A mobile helicopter landing pad comprises a platform with one or more elongate, concave guiding channels for aligning a helicopter on the landing pad by forcing the helicopter's skates into a specific alignment upon landing. The guiding channels may have laterally disposed rollers or else be made of slick material to allow the helicopter to slide towards the base of the guiding channel under the helicopter's own weight. Additional crosswise rollers at the bottom of the guiding channel(s) may be provided to allow the helicopter to be moved forward or backward after landing. A blade locking arm swings upward and secures the top rotor. The pad may include a foldable enclosure that protects the helicopter after landing, and an electronic guidance system that assists the pilot during landing by providing instructions to the pilot or visual indications of the prevailing wind direction and velocity, through illuminated signals on the platform.
US08297551B2 Movable main undercarriage for an aircraft
The airplane comprises a fuselage having frames, and at least two undercarriages each comprising a support and at least one wheel, the support being carried directly by the fuselage and being hinged to the fuselage about an axis that lies outside the frames.The undercarriage is movable between an operational position in which the or each wheel is vertical, and a rest position.The support and the wheel have a configuration such that, in the rest position, the undercarriage extends circumferentially relative to the fuselage and outside the frames.
US08297549B2 Helicopter rotor
A rotor for a helicopter, having a drive shaft rotating about a first axis; a hub angularly integral with the drive shaft about the first axis; and at least two blades projecting from the hub, on the opposite side to the first axis, and extending along respective second axes crosswise to the first axis; each blade is movable with respect to the hub and the other blades about a respective fourth axis parallel to the first axis, about the respective second axis, and about a respective third axis crosswise to the first and respective second axis; the rotor also has a number of first dampers for damping vibration associated with at least oscillation of the relative blades about the respective fourth axes; the first dampers are connected to one another and each to a relative blade; and, in a radial direction with respect to the first axis, at least one first damper is located between the first axis and the fourth axis of the relative blade.
US08297543B2 Methods for individualizing trichomes
A method for individualizing a trichome from an epidermis of a non-seed portion of a trichome-bearing plant in the Stachys genus to form a fibrous structure is provided. The method comprises contacting the plant with a device to separate the trichome from the epidermis and incorporating the separated trichome into a fibrous structure.
US08297541B2 Dust reduction in delivery of particulate commodities
Apparatus for reducing dust emissions from particulate commodities such as wheat or coal using a curved loading spoon connected to the discharge from a loading spout. The curved loading spoon turns particulate commodities delivered at a rate above a predetermined delivery velocity against a curved outer wall causing dust arising from the particulate commodities to be re-entrained within the commodities as they are diverted from a straight path by the curvature. Also described are an optional flap designed to rest just above the surface of the commodities stream adjacent the outlet, and a converging duct located upstream of the curve loading spoon and arranged to direct commodities against the curved outer wall adjacent the inlet.
US08297540B1 Reverse-flow nozzle for generating cavitating or pulsed jets
A reverse-flow nozzle generates a cavitating and/or pulsed jet of pressurized liquid. The nozzle includes a body having an inlet for receiving a stream of liquid and a main channel through the body extending from the inlet to an outlet. A flow-reversing channel in the nozzle diverts a portion of the liquid from the main channel to a point downstream of a mixing chamber. The channel returns the diverted liquid back into the mixing chamber as a reverse-flow jet relative to a main stream of liquid flowing toward the outlet. This reverse-flow jet interacts with the main stream to generate the cavitating jet that discharges from the outlet. By angling the reverse-flow jet relative to the main stream, a naturally pulsed jet may be generated.
US08297539B2 Leakproof perfume bottle spray head assembly with positioning sound indication
A leak-proof perfume bottle spray head assembly includes a bottle cap having a tubular holder block and a rotating shaft rotatably mounted in said tubular holder block, a positioning block having a base coupled to the rotating shaft and a sound-making unit extending along the periphery of the base, the sound-making unit having a positioning face and a retaining rib, and a spray head coupled to the rotating shaft and having a deformable rail which will be rubbed against the sound-making unit to make click sound during rotation of the rotating shaft with the spray head from the open position to the close position and a retaining portion for engagement with the retaining rib when the rotating shaft is rotated to the close position.
US08297538B2 Shower switch with adjustable device
The present invention pertains to a shower switch with adjustable device comprising a main body, a water divided device, a cover, a driving device and a handle. Particularly, the water divided device contains a water divided plate with water divided holes for operating with a sealing plate, which is further positioned inside the main body, and the driving device has one end thereof connecting to the sealing plate and the other end thereof pivoted to the handle. In this manner, the driving device pivoted to the main body and the handle synchronically rotates the sealing plate against the water divided plate by one hand so as to conduct the water from the sealing plate into different water divided holes for the purpose of water switching and of preventing from wetting the hands, hence increasing the convenience.
US08297531B2 Automatic solvent injection for plural component spray gun
A solvent piston 22 shuttles between first and second positions. In the first position, high pressure air applied to the rear 22a of the solvent piston 22 closes a solvent bore 24 around the solvent piston 22 and prevents passage of solvent into the mix chamber 26. In the second position, high pressure air is applied to the front 22b of the solvent piston 22 causing it to retract slightly thereby uncovering the solvent bore 24, closing off the solvent inlet 28 and allowing a slug of solvent to mix with the purge air 32 and pass from the solvent outlet 30 into the mix chamber 26. The solvent is either self contained in the applicator or plumbed eternally to the gun.
US08297530B2 Ultrasonic atomizing nozzle with variable fan-spray feature
A spray nozzle assembly that utilizes ultrasonic atomization techniques to atomize a liquid into a cloud of small or fine droplets is disclosed. The nozzle assembly also can use various air or gas atomizing technologies to propel the generally directionless droplet cloud toward a surface or substrate to be coated. The propelled droplet cloud may at this state have a conical or cone-shaped spray pattern. Additional air or gas atomizing technologies can be utilized to shape the propelled droplet cloud into a flattened fan-shaped spray pattern that can be usable in various industrial applications. The shape of the spray pattern and the distribution of droplets within the pattern can be adjusted by manipulation of the gas pressure used in gas atomization.
US08297528B2 Spring-type rail mount for track system
A rail mount secures a longitudinally extending rail having a foot to a sleeper of a track system. The mount has a rail base plate on the sleeper underneath the rail foot and unitarily formed with a pair of upwardly projecting holders transversely flanking the rail and each formed with at least one vertically throughgoing bore. Respective anchor bolts engaged vertically downward through the bores have heads bearing downward at least indirectly on the respective holders and are seated in the sleeper to hold the base plate down on the sleeper. Respective elastically deformable clips fitted to the holders below the respective anchor-bolt heads bear upwardly on the holders and downwardly on the rail foot to press the rail downwardly toward the sleeper.
US08297521B2 Two part code
A code system for associating data with articles having codes each code having a uniquely created, non-informational first part and a second part wherein each code is associated with an article and the first part may be transformed and thereby uniquely associated with an individual article and a second part may be associated with the first part, such that a relationship between the parts, or lack thereof may be discerned by reading both parts of the code, in order to verify the authenticity of the code.
US08297519B2 Privacy protection packet for holding free floating security devices with deactivation assisted by perforations in the packet only
The present invention relates to a flexible packaging arrangement for use with security devices. The flexible packaging may include an packet or sleeve in which a plurality of overlapping perforations or cuts may be used to break or render the security device inoperable after repeated bends or application of force to the flexible package to thereby protect the privacy of the consumer and to prevent inadvertent triggering of an alarm system after a legitimate purchase of the device.
US08297513B2 Method and system for identifying a game piece
A method and system for determining the presence and identity of a game piece placed at a sensing location by attaching one or more conductive rings at fixed concentric locations on the bottom of the game piece and sensing the presence or absence of the conductive rings by means of sensors that are insensitive to the rotational orientation of the game piece.
US08297512B2 Industrial scanner
A scanner module is constructed for use in a high impact, high usage environment. The industrial scanner employs a substantially box-like enclosure with an integral handle extending from a bottom portion forming an elongated slot. A scanner window is located in one panel of the enclosure and cushioning materials disposed in the enclosure for providing heavy-duty impact resistance. An externally accessible keyboard display window and a display assembly is employed at a frontal portion of the enclosure.
US08297509B2 User interface feedback using scanner light source
An image forming apparatus includes a scanning region and a user interface region adjacent to the scanning region. In the user interface, a first illuminated indicator corresponds to a function of the image forming apparatus. A light source is operable to illuminate an object in the scanning region. A first light conveying member is coupled to the illuminated indicator and operable to receive light from the light source.
US08297505B2 Product management apparatus, product management method, and storage medium storing product management program
A product management apparatus includes a tag information receiver that receives first tag information identifying a first wireless tag attached to a first product, and second tag information identifying a second wireless tag attached to a second product, a group determiner that determines whether a sensor related to the received first tag information is present, a group generator that generates group information including the first tag information and the second tag information and if a difference between the time of reception of the first tag information and the time of reception of the second tag information falls within a specific range, a sensor information receiver that retrieves environment information of an environment surrounding the sensor and a product management unit that associates the retrieved environment information with the first tag information and the second tag information, included in the group information.
US08297500B2 Fitting room terminal, job supporting system, and information acquiring method
A display unit displays information in a fitting room. An operation input unit receives operation input of information in the fitting room. An RFID reader writer performs radio communication with an RFID tag, which is attached to a commodity and stores data of a commodity ID for identifying the commodity, and sets a radio communication range in the inside of the fitting room. A control unit that (i) acquires data of a commodity ID from an RFID tag attached to a commodity in the fitting room via the RFID reader writer, (ii) acquires, according to the acquisition of the data of the commodity ID, data of questionnaire information including a question and plural answers to the question from a questionnaire information file that stores the data of the questionnaire information, and (iii) causes the display unit to display the acquired questionnaire information, waits for selection of one or two or more answers, which are included in the questionnaire information displayed by the display unit, by operation input in the operation input unit, and causes a storage area to store the answers selected by the operation input in the operation input unit.
US08297494B1 Alarm and indicating system for preventing burglary and theft
Apparatus that includes alarms with indicators to prevent burglary and theft includes a depository (10) operative to receive deposit containers (20) from authorized persons who open a lock (24). The apparatus includes a depository head (12) and a chest (14). A security curtain assembly (36) comprising a plurality of movable plate members is operative to selectively block an opening in the top of the chest that communicates with the head in response to an actuator. The actuator operates responsive to at least one circuit to cause the security curtain to close responsive to sensing conditions that may correspond to an attack through one or more sensors. Alarms are given locally or remotely when the at least one circuit senses conditions that may correspond to an attack.
US08297489B2 Packaging container
A packaging container includes a body plate defined into front and back faces by a first folding line. The front face includes second and third folding lines. The second and third folding lines define two connection portions. The body plate further includes an enclosing plate. A fourth folding line is located between the front face and the enclosing plate. The back face is folded upwards along the first folding line, and the connection portions are folded inwards along the second and third folding lines. The connection portions are stuck to the back face. A first pre-folding line and a second pre-folding line are located between the second and third folding lines. A fifth pre-folding line and a sixth pre-folding line are located on the back face. Two seventh pre-folding lines and two eighth pre-folding lines are defined.
US08297488B2 Bump forming method using self-assembling resin and a wall surface
A method for forming bumps 19 on electrodes 32 of a wiring board 31 includes the steps of: (a) supplying a fluid 14 containing conductive particles 16 and a gas bubble generating agent onto a first region 17 including the electrodes 32 on the wiring board 31; (b) disposing a substrate 40 having a wall surface 45 formed near the electrodes 32 for forming a meniscus 55 of the fluid 14, so that the substrate 40 faces the wiring board 31; and (c) heating the fluid 14 to generate gas bubbles 30 from the gas bubble generating agent contained in the fluid 14.
US08297483B2 Liquid dispenser
Liquid dispenser for dispensing a carbonated liquid from a container, the liquid dispenser including a compartment, a container sealing region, a compartment sealing region, and a valve, the compartment extending upwardly from a neck portion of the container, the neck portion and the compartment defining an opening to the atmosphere between the compartment and the neck portion, the container sealing region being located between the neck portion and the opening, the compartment sealing region being located between the compartment and the opening, the valve being movable within the compartment, from a closed position pressed toward the neck portion, to an open position away from the neck portion, the valve including a first surface facing the compartment, a second surface facing the opening, a first valve sealing region, a second valve sealing region, and a channel extending from the neck portion to the compartment, the first valve sealing region matching the container sealing region, for preventing passage of fluids between the neck portion and the opening, when the valve is in the closed position, the second valve sealing region matching the compartment sealing region, for preventing passage of fluids between the compartment and the opening, when the valve is in the closed position, the channel enabling passage of fluid from the neck portion to the compartment.
US08297482B2 Manifold and nozzle closure/seal system
A combination manifold and nozzle closure system is disclosed. The closure system limits exposure of the nozzle outlets to air between dispenses or between uses. Manifold accommodates a plurality of nozzles. Each nozzle includes a nozzle outlet extending beyond an end of the manifold. An actuator shaft passes through the manifold and is connected to a plate at its distal end with a film disposed between the plate and the nozzle outlets. An actuator moves the actuator shaft from a closed position where the film engages the nozzle outlets and the plate is disposed just below the nozzles to an open position where the film and plate have been pulled upward beyond the nozzle outlets. The plate includes a plurality of openings and the film includes a plurality of valves each opening in the plate is in alignment with a valve and each valve is in alignment with one of the nozzle outlets. By moving the plate and film upward past the nozzle outlets, the valves and the film open and the nozzle outlets extend through the openings in the plate and are therefore free to dispense. To close the system, the actuator moves the shaft, plate and film downward where the valves and the film close and engage the nozzle outlets to keep the nozzle outlets relatively isolated from air between dispenses.
US08297473B2 Cutlery dispenser and method of dispensing cutlery
A cutlery dispenser comprises a storage chamber adapted to retain a plurality of cutlery therein; an ejector for sequentially ejecting the plurality of cutlery from the storage chamber; an actuator for driving the ejector; and a sensor for triggering the actuator in response to an event.
US08297471B2 Interactive manual cup dispenser
A use-activated cup dispenser capable of sensing the manual removal of individual cups therefrom is provided. Manual removal is understood to include physical contact between a hand and a cup and extraction of the cup from the cup dispenser by the user. The invention includes a decorative cover including a housing disposed between first and second covers, at least one switch mechanism, a control circuit, and at least one active element including light elements, motor elements, scent dispensers, and/or audio elements. The decorative cover further includes an opening along one end. One or more switch mechanisms are provided along the first cover adjacent to the opening. The functionality of switch mechanisms includes direct contact, indirect contact, and non-contact between the cup and an optical or mechanical switch. The control circuit could be disposed on a circuit board and controls the functionality of the active elements. Active elements are attached to the decorative cover and are actuated when a cup interacts with at least one switch mechanism. Active elements enhance the entertainment and interactive properties of the cup dispenser.
US08297468B1 Fuel tank for liquefied natural gas
A storage tank is provided for storing liquefied natural gas on, for example, a motor vehicle such as a bus or truck. The storage tank includes a metal liner vessel encapsulated by a resin-fiber composite layer. A foam insulating layer, including an outer protective layer of epoxy or of a truck liner material, covers the composite layer. A non-conducting protective coating may be painted on the vessel between the composite layer and the vessel so as to inhibit galvanic corrosion.
US08297463B2 Closure for an equipment sub
A closure is shown for an equipment sub. A closure door is carried by a sub body and movable thereto between open and closed positions for providing access to a pressure vessel. Various improvements are disclosed including a new mechanism for positioning wedge shaped arcuate segments between the door and the sub body, a retainer mechanism for guiding movement of cross bars, a split hinge adjustment mechanism for adjusting planarity and concentricity between the closure door and the sub body, an increased annular wall body thickness region surrounding the sealing surface for reducing warpage during welding, a pressure lock rod member which also engages a combination of cross bars and a crank for driving the cross bars, and a pry bar that can facilitate better manually operated leveraging of the closure door.
US08297462B1 Normally-closed dispensing closure with operative handle
An apparatus and method for allowing a user to use the same mechanism to connect a container to another object and to open a normally-closed opening in the container. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus comprises a closure body having an opening therein; a stopper that closes the opening; and a carabiner that comprises a spine that is fixed to said body and a gate that is operably connected to said stopper. In use, this embodiment of the invention is operated by moving the gate to a full open position, which causes the stopper to move away from the opening.
US08297460B2 Vapor barrier for flammable liquid storage tanks
The vapor barrier for flammable liquid storage tanks provides a gas impermeable layer for covering the surface of a flammable liquid stored within a conventional flammable liquid storage tank, a tanker, a vessel or the like. The vapor barrier is formed from a plurality of spherical buoyant members. Each spherical buoyant member has a heat-resistant core or shell, a heat-reactive intumescent or flame retardant layer formed on an outer surface of the heat-resistant core, and an antistatic and oil-phobic layer formed on an outer surface of the heat-reactive intumescent layer. The vapor barrier may further be used with liquid storage tanks in which separation between the liquid and vapor phases is beneficial to prevent oxidation or other undesirable reactions.
US08297459B2 Tank container
The present invention relates to a tank container (1) having a tank (2) and a framework which receives the tank (2) via end frames (3). Here, the end frames (3) are connected to one another in the lower region via a longitudinal frame structure (5), wherein at least two lateral longitudinal carriers (12) are provided which, in their end regions, have in each case one lateral diagonal member (14) which extends between the longitudinal carrier (12) and a corner support (18) and one base diagonal member (16) which extends between the longitudinal carrier (12) and a lower transverse spar (26, 26′), wherein the base diagonal member (16) and/or the lateral diagonal member (14) have/has an open cross-sectional profile.
US08297452B2 Parts container with adjustable rack
A parts container having adjustable racks that are adjustable in both a vertical and horizontal direction.
US08297444B2 Separation of carbon nanotubes using magnetic particles
The present disclosure generally describes techniques for separating semiconducting carbon nanotubes from metallic carbon nanotubes in a carbon nanotube dispersion. The semiconducting carbon nanotubes and metallic carbon nanotubes may be provided and dispersed in a fluid. Once the semiconducting carbon nanotubes attach to the amine-coated magnetic particles, a magnetic field may be applied to the amine coated magnetic particles and attached semiconducting carbon nanotubes to attract and hold at least a portion of the semiconducting carbon nanotubes, so that the semiconducting carbon nanotubes may be separated from the fluid and/or metallic carbon nanotubes.
US08297438B2 Multipack carrier for packaging containers
A multipack carrier for packaging containers is an apparatus that is used to hold, bundle, and transport packaging containers together. The packaging containers is any kind of bottle, can, or jar that is used to store consumer goods. The apparatus comprises of a plurality of plastic braces, a paper board carrier, a grasping mechanism, and a printed graphic. The plastic braces allows the apparatus to clutch each individual packing containers, and the paper board carrier allows the apparatus to simultaneous support all of the plastic braces. In the preferred embodiment, the plastic braces are created by injecting recyclable resin into a plastic injection mold and onto the paper board carrier. The printed graphic can be illustrated on the apparatus because of the material of the paper board carrier. The grasping mechanism allows a person to pick up and carry the apparatus with the packing containers.
US08297437B2 Carrier for containers
A carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier comprises at least one bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, and at least two side panels. The interior of the carrier is divided into a front portion and a back portion by a first and second central panel. A first divider flap is foldably attached to the first central panel and extends to the front panel to divide the front portion into at least two container-receiving spaces. A second divider flap is foldably attached to the second central panel and extends to the back panel to divide the back portion into at least two container-receiving spaces. The first central panel has features for facilitating positioning of the second divider flap relative to the second central panel. The second central panel has features for facilitating positioning of the first divider flap relative to the first central panel.
US08297426B2 Piston apparatus of automatic transmission
In an embodiment of the present invention, a piston apparatus of an automatic transmission includes a piston member capable of moving in the axial direction of the rotation shaft, and a hydraulic chamber, and has been configured so that the piston member moves in the axial direction due to pressure in the hydraulic chamber. The piston member includes a cylinder part that extends in the axial direction and to which pressure in the hydraulic chamber is transmitted, a pressing part that extends in the radial direction and presses against a friction engaging element of the automatic transmission, and a connecting part that connects the cylinder part and the pressing part and, with respect to the axial direction, is offset from the pressing part in a direction of separation from the friction engaging element. Also, the axial direction offset amount of the connecting part from the pressing part of the piston member has been set larger than the stroke amount of the piston member.
US08297424B2 Single actuator self-adjusting dry dual clutch
A self-adjusting twin or dual dry clutch assembly for a dual clutch transmission includes a single actuator. The clutch assembly includes one center and two outer clutch drive plates or discs which independently engage a pair of interleaved driven clutch plates or discs which are coupled to and drive a respective pair of transmission countershafts or layshafts. The single actuator translates an internal clutch carrier which acts upon the outer clutch plates through respective pluralities of linear one way clutches. Self-adjustment of the dual clutch assembly is achieved by additional linear one way clutches acting through pairs of spring biased control rods.
US08297421B2 Active materials actuated one-way clutch
A one-way clutch for assisting the rotation of a rotary fluid motor includes a ratchet and a hub rotatable about a longitudinal axis relative to the ratchet. The ratchet includes a plurality of teeth, and the hub includes a pawl for engaging the teeth to rotate the ratchet in a single direction of rotation. A control device including an active material interconnects the pawl and the hub. The active material of the control device contracts in response to a control signal to move the pawl. An actuator including an active material is spirally wound around an outer periphery of the hub. The active material of the actuator contracts to spin the hub and thereby drive the ratchet.
US08297420B2 Method for manufacturing an overrunning clutch
Rollers and springs are installed in notch portions of a clutch outer (S104), an inscribed circle diameter of the rollers is measured in a state in which the rollers are placed in contact with stopping portions by pressure from the springs (S105), and an outside diameter of a cylindrical portion is determined from the inscribed circle diameter measured value such that a predetermined amount of roller bite is achieved (S106). Then, the outside diameter of the cylindrical portion is finished so as to have the determined value of the outside diameter (S108). An overrunning clutch is assembled by pairing together the clutch outer, rollers, and springs and the clutch inner (S110).
US08297411B2 Brake device for use in an elevator using a target pattern when a hoist is not driven
In an elevator device, movement of a car is braked by a brake device in a state in which driving of a hoist is stopped. While the drive of the hoist is stopped, braking force of the brake device is controlled by a brake control device based on a signal from a movement detector that generates a signal corresponding to movement of the car. The brake control device generates a target pattern for at least one of speed and acceleration of the car and controls braking force of the brake device such that the movement of the car follows the target pattern.
US08297410B2 Elevating workshop pit platform
A pit platform (10) within a pit (11) located in a floor, having a deck (12) that can be raised and lowered by a lifting means (14) between a raised position in which the deck is substantially level with the floor and a second position in which the deck is beneath the level of the floor. The deck is supported by a plurality of cables (18) controlled by the lifting means to effect substantially vertical movement of the deck within the pit. A method of moving the deck between the raised and second positions is also described. The pit platform has particular application to a workshop, enabling workers standing on the platform to position themselves at a comfortable height below a vehicle that is being worked upon. In the raised position the platform provides a safety cover for the pit.
US08297409B2 Coordination of multiple elevator cars in a hoistway
The movement of a plurality of elevator cars (12, 14) in an elevator hoistway (16) is coordinated for situations in which the regions of the hoistway that are serviceable by the cars (12, 14) at any given time are configured to overlap. A car stop plan for each elevator car (12, 14) is generated that includes a sequence of stops for servicing demand assigned to the elevator car (12, 14). Operation of the elevator cars (12, 14) is then coordinated based on the car stop plans such that each elevator car (12, 14) services its assigned demand without interfering with the car stop plans of any other of the plurality of elevator cars (12, 14).
US08297408B2 Magnetic stabilizer for material handling equipment
A stabilizer for material handling equipment, includes a base mount for mounting to the material handling equipment, a main frame pivotally attached to the base mount, and a release lever and magnet housing pivotally mounted to the main frame. A biasing element holds the main frame in a disengaged position away from a metallic floor surface. The release lever can be addressed by a user to overcome the biasing element and rotate the magnet housing to an engaged position, so that magnets in the magnet housing engage the metallic floor surface, holding or anchoring the material handling equipment in place. In order to disengage the magnets from the metallic floor surface, the user forces the release lever in an opposite direction, prying the magnets from the floor surface, upon which the biasing element further rotates the main frame, removing the magnet housing from the proximity of the floor.
US08297406B2 Device capable of extending a foot end of a ladder
A device capable of extending a foot end of a ladder includes a box tube section with an elongated hole, a long engaging plate with an elongated hole and a plurality of inserting teeth, a short engaging plate with a central fixing hole, two pairs of engaging slots and an engaging nut, and a knob head bolt. The knob head bolt passes through the elongated holes, and the central fixing hole to be tightened to the engaging bolt via a rail of the ladder. The long and short engaging plates are disposed in the box tube section to face to each other. The knob head bolt is loosened or tightened to cause two pairs of the inserting teeth disengaging or inserting into the engaging slots for the box tube section being operated to extend a distance outward the rail stably and safely.
US08297405B2 Adjustable work platform for pipe and casing stabbing operations
A stabbing basket, for a rig and for supporting a worker while stabbing joints of tubular members together during running operations, comprises a frame member for mounting the stabbing basket to the rig, a platform to support the worker, a carriage to slidably mount the platform to the frame member, vertical power means for moving the carriage vertically with respect to the frame member, an articulating boom, interconnecting the platform with the carriage, said articulating boom comprising a first segment and a second segment, and at least one pivoting actuator positioned between the first segment and the second segment.
US08297404B2 Soundproof exhaust pipe for a turbine engine
The soundproofed exhaust duct for a turbine engine comprises a perforated inner shell defining a flow passage, and a solid outer shell, the inner and outer shells defining between them a space that is closed at the upstream and downstream ends of said space. A core extends between the inner and outer shells at a distance therefrom, and contains at least one sound energy dissipating layer made up of hollow beads that are held against one another. A frame with upstream and downstream portions connected together by longitudinal members supports the core and partitions it into a plurality of boxes that are filled with hollow beads that are held between perforated textures, the frame being secured to the outer shell and/or to the inner shell via at least one of its upstream and downstream portions.
US08297401B1 Vehicle steering system transmission
A vehicle steering system transmission comprising a housing, an input shaft journalled to the housing, an electric motor connected to the housing and coupled to the input shaft, an output shaft journalled to the housing, the input shaft and the output shaft coupled by a first pair of sprockets having a first belt trained therebetween and having a first ratio, the first belt and first pair of sprockets comprising a helical tooth configuration, the input shaft and the output shaft coupled by a second pair of sprockets having a second belt trained therebetween and having a second ratio, and the input shaft and the output shaft coupled by a third pair of sprockets having a third belt trained therebetween and having a third ratio.
US08297398B2 Two-wheeled motor vehicle
A two-wheeled motor vehicle provided with a drive shaft (32) rotatably supported by a swing arm (28) rockable on a pivot shaft (27). The longitudinal center axis (32J) of the drive shaft (32) is located below a line (28C) interconnecting the pivot shaft (27) and an axle (40). The drive shaft (32) is surrounded by the swing arm (28).
US08297391B2 Power supply system, vehicle provided with the same, power supply system control method and computer-readable recording medium bearing program for causing computer to control the power supply system
First and second converters are connected in parallel to positive and negative lines, respectively. When a required power is smaller than a reference value, an ECU controls the first and second converters such that one of the first and second converters operates and the other stops. When the required power is equal to or larger than the reference value, the ECU controls the first and second converters such that both the first and second converters operate.
US08297386B2 Work vehicle
A work vehicle including: a body frame; an engine supported by the body frame through an elastic body; a belt transmission mechanism connected to an output shaft of the engine in a power transmissive manner; and a power takeoff (PTO) mechanism connected to the belt transmission mechanism in a power transmissive manner to take out power from the engine. A PTO support bracket configured to support the PTO mechanism is attached to the engine.
US08297385B2 Dual wheelend for a vehicle
A dual wheelend for an axle assembly having a rotatable axle shaft. The wheelend comprises a spindle defining a first axis. An intermediate hub is supported on the spindle for rotation about the first axis during rotation of the axle shaft. An inner wheel hub and an outer wheel hub are adjacent one another and are each supported on the intermediate hub for rotation about the first axis. A differential mechanism interconnects the inner and outer wheel hubs. A pin is disposed through a pinion along a second axis and couples the differential mechanism to the intermediate hub for driving the wheel hubs during rotation of the intermediate hub and permitting relative rotation between the wheel hubs relative to the intermediate hub. The pin includes proximal end with a head disposed on the proximal end for engaging the pinion and sandwiching the pinion between the head and the intermediate hub.
US08297384B2 Methods and apparatus for utilizing electrically powered vehicles
Methods and apparatus may augment the utility of an electrically powered vehicle. A first electric motor (110a or 111a) may be provided with a first effective gear ratio, a second electric motor (110b or 111b) may be provided with a second effective gear ratio, and additional electric motors may be provided additional effective gear ratios. An electrically powered vehicle may be differentially powered by said electric motors at said different effective gear ratios. A transdisciplinary electrical diagnostic processor (440) may process electrically recondite operation parameters of one or more electrical components to provide transdisciplinary diagnostic output to a user. A standardized modular interface (540) supported on a trailer chassis (510) may be configured to accept multipurposed modular interchangeable trailer tops (560) at an interchange position (550) of said trailer chassis (510). A hand actuated accessory mount may be provided with a quick release interface (322).
US08297379B2 Systems and methods for providing a gearless drilling turbine
A drilling sub assembly adapted to be coupled between a drill bit of a drilling rig and a drill pipe, the drilling sub assembling including a turbine unit directly coupled to the drill bit via a mandrel, such that passage of a drilling fluid through the drilling sub assembly rotates the turbine unit which in turn directly rotates the drill bit coupled thereto. The present invention further relates to a baffle for controlling and reducing debris present within a drilling fluid used in combination with the drilling sub assembly.
US08297371B1 System and methods for fire protection
A fire protection system for helping to prevent an area from catching fire comprising a large fire-resistant tarp for draping over the area; cables slidably attached along the side edges of the tarp via eyelets; a guide rope near the bottom of the tarp for helping to help spread the tarp over the area; a plurality of attachment components at the bottom of the tarp for attaching to a structure in the area to secure the tarp; a weighted component disposed near the bottom edge of the tarp to help guide the tarp to a particular position over the area or help prevent the tarp from being blown by drafts; and a flap disposed at the bottom edge of the tarp, the flap remains unrestrained when the tarp is secured over the area, wherein an individual can take shelter beneath the flap.
US08297370B2 Releasing control unit for a residential fire protection system
A releasing control panel (RCP) for use with residential fire protection systems and methods. The RCP provides a primary communication between a liquid supply source and a network of pipes and sprinklers using a series of three control valves. The RCP also encloses a pressure source providing pressurized gas to an auxiliary line that is isolated from the pipe network and sprinklers, with pressurized gas being provided in response to a pressure in the isolated auxiliary line. The RCP also encloses a secondary communication between the series of the control valves and a drain without the use of a bypass system for the primary communication. The RCP further encloses a power supply and a controller that communications with a fire detector disposed in a dwelling at a defined spacing to a sprinkler.
US08297369B2 Fire-extinguishing system with servo motor-driven foam pump
Embodiments of the invention provide a fire-extinguishing system for injecting foamant into a stream of water. The system can include a flow meter determining a flow rate of the stream of water and a foam pump having an inlet coupled to a supply of foamant and an outlet coupled to the stream of water. The system includes a servo motor driving the foam pump. The servo motor includes a sensor used to determine a rotor shaft speed and/or a rotor shaft torque. A controller can control an operating speed of the servo motor using closed-loop control depending on the flow rate and the rotor shaft speed and/or the rotor shaft torque.
US08297368B2 Systems and methods for initiating annular obstruction in a subsurface well
The present invention is directed to systems and methods for initiating annular obstructions in wells used in, or in support of, enhanced oil recovery operations—particularly enhanced oil recovery (EOR) efforts involving steam injection (e.g., steam flooding). In at least some instances, system and method embodiments of the present invention utilize one or more passively-activated annular obstruction devices (and/or hybrid active/passive devices) for inducing annular obstruction, wherein the associated passive or hybrid activation is at least partially controlled by thermal means such that it can be deemed to be thermally-directed or thermally-controlled. Such thermally-directed passive activation can afford considerably more control over the annular obstruction process and, correspondingly, over the overall steam injection into the formation and associated reservoir—thereby providing more efficient recovery of hydrocarbons.
US08297367B2 Mechanism for activating a plurality of downhole devices
A mechanism for selectively activating a plurality of downhole pathways including a) a valve having: i) a sleeve coupled for movement between an open and normally closed position; and ii) a valve magnet set mounted to the sleeve; and b) a dart for pumping in hole including a dart magnet set matched to the valve magnet set such that the dart couples to the valve when in close proximity and, in turn, the sleeve moves from the closed position to the open position.
US08297366B2 Installable load shoulder for a wellhead
A system for supporting tubing with an installable load shoulder. The system includes a wellhead formed with an enlarged first circumferential groove in the wall of the vertical bore of the wellhead, and a second circumferential groove extending upwardly or downwardly from the first circumferential groove. At least one opening is formed in communication with the second circumferential groove. An annular load shoulder is received within the first circumferential groove, and has an inner surface adapted to support a tubing hanger. The load shoulder is formed from at least three arc-shaped shoulder segments adapted to be received within the first circumferential groove. At least one of the shoulder segments has an engagement member configured to pass through the opening to be received within the second circumferential groove. Rotating the load shoulder such that the engagement member is out of alignment with the opening secures the load shoulder within the wellhead.
US08297358B2 Auto-production frac tool
Fracturing tools for use in oil and gas wells comprise an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve, a run-in position, and two operational positions. The inner sleeve comprises two ports and two positions. The first port is aligned with a first port of the housing when the tool and sleeve are in the first operational position and is closed when the tool and sleeve are in the run-in position. After performing the first operation, the inner sleeve is returned to its initial position and the outer sleeve is moved placing the tool in the second operational position in which the second port in the inner sleeve is in fluid communication with a second port in the housing. Movement of the tool from the first operational position to the second operational position so that a second operation can be performed is done without the need for an additional well intervention step.
US08297353B2 Use of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) in well treatments
A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising placing a plurality of Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) sensors in at least a portion of a sealant composition, placing the sealant composition in an annular space formed between a casing and the wellbore wall, and monitoring, via the MEMS sensors, the sealant composition and/or the annular space for a presence of gas, water, or both. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising placing a plurality of Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) sensors in a wellbore composition, placing the wellbore composition in the wellbore, and monitoring, via the MEMS sensors, the wellbore and/or the surrounding formation for movement.
US08297344B2 Modular air-cooled condenser apparatus and method
An air-cooled condenser for receiving and condensing steam has at least one first, corner module and at least one second, intermediate module. The first module has a four-sided profile in plan view and a respective vertical tube bundle panel located on each of two adjacent sides of the first module. The second module has a four-sided profile in plan view and a vertical tube bundle panel on one of its sides, and an internal tube bundle panel disposed inside of the second module. Steam is supplied to all of the tube bundle panels.
US08297341B2 Heat dissipating structure and method of forming the same
A forming method for a heat dissipating structure is provided. According to the method, an extrudate is formed by extrution molding, wherein the extrudate includes protruding bending portions extending in parallel. Fins are extruded monolithically on the bending portions. One or more cut channels are formed by cutting the fins and the extrudate with a cutting tool. The cutting tool cuts the fins for forming a notch on each fin at first, and then cuts the bending portions for forming a cut-through slot on each bending portion, wherein each cut-through slot is formed for cooling air flowing through two side of the extrudate. By cutting the bending portions and the fins by the cutting tool at the same time, a large number of cut-through slots are formed in despite of the existence of the fins, and the performance of heat dissipation is enhanced.
US08297340B2 Method of producing ductile iron
Process for producing ductile iron by treating liquid iron with an initializer which is a ferrosilicon alloy comprising an effective amount of barium sufficient to inactivate the oxygen activity of the liquid iron. This is followed at a predetermined time thereafter by treating the liquid iron with a magnesium containing nodularizer, followed by treating the liquid iron with a eutectic graphite nucleation-inducing inoculant, and casting the iron.
US08297336B2 Barrier means
Barrier means are provided having a frame including a plurality of frame members, movable between a first substantially erect condition and a second substantially folded condition. At least one of the frame members including two or more telescopically mounted portions capable of relative movement to allow expansion and/or contraction of the length of the frame member. Locking means are associated with one or more of said frame portions to allow the portion or portions to be locked at a required length. The locking means are movable between the locked and/or unlocked position by relative movement of the frame portion or portions with which the locking means are associated.
US08297335B2 Interchangeable window treatment system
An interchangeable window treatment system has a plurality of independent fabric components including, but not limited to, a base drape panel, a valance, strap members and at least one overlay drape panel. The strap members are positioned at spaced intervals along a top of the base drape panel, forming loops to support the window treatment system on a horizontal rod. In one embodiment, the valance, one or more overlay panels and strap members are removably secured to the base drape panel with dumbbell shaped button links having enlarged button heads on opposite ends that fit through openings in the fabric (eyelets, buttonholes, etc.) on each of the attached fabric components. Any of the fabric components can be removed, reversed, interchanged and replaced to change the overall appearance of the window treatment system according to a desired style, color scheme, or theme. Medallions or other decorative elements are removably attachable at spaced intervals along the valance, button links or strap members. In another embodiment, the straps and valance are sewn to the base panel, as one piece, and the overlay drape panels and decorative elements are attached by snaps, magnets or other releasable fastening devices.
US08297334B2 Sliding panel
A sliding panel includes multiple connecting/adjacent carrier tracks such as two/three/four carrier tracks while connectors of each carrier track are disposed in opposite directions or at intervals. Thus the multiple connecting/adjacent carrier tracks slide in parallel under the same channel. Moreover, the positions of each connector on top surface of respective carrier track are in alternating arrangement so as to allow runners of multiple connecting/adjacent carrier tracks being mounted inside the same channel simultaneously. The runners of the connecting/adjacent carrier tracks move inside the channel of a rail at the same time and the connecting/adjacent carrier tracks slide in parallel under the same channel. Therefore, the number of channels of the rail is decreased and the amount of material used for producing the rail is reduced. Furthermore, the rail can be designed to have two-step inner and outer rails for adjusting length of the rail. Moreover, each rail is disposed only with one channel and then a plurality of rails such as one/two/three rails are arranged in parallel to form a rail set for easy assembling.
US08297331B2 Separating apparatus and separating method
A separating apparatus includes a sucking plate for sticking to a support plate by suction. The sucking plate has sucking holes for expelling gas from a space between the sucking plate and the support plate. Each of the sucking holes has a diameter of not less than 0.3 mm and not more than an outer diameter of the support plate. This makes it possible to separate a supporting plate from a wafer without breaking the wafer.
US08297330B2 Welded knot end effector
An apparatus for forming an end effector includes a welding device having a welder positioned adjacent to a base, and a die coupled to one end of the welder. The base and the welder are movable relative to each other. The welder, base or die includes a source of heat that is applied to a portion of the suture disposed between the welder and the base.
US08297329B2 Coating film transfer tool
An arm rotation shaft of a tape base is disposed so as to be in a position on the substantially opposite side to a winding bobbin across a feeding bobbin, one end of a first arm closer than the outer peripheral face of the transfer tape wound around the feeding bobbin is fixed to an arm rotation shaft, and a tape head is provided on the other end of the first arm. By rotation of the first arm taking the arm rotation shaft as a fulcrum, the tape head is rotated.
US08297328B2 Coating film transfer tool
To provide a coating film transfer tool in which a transfer head is loaded within a case in such a manner as to come out of and go back into the case, and in which the excessive pressure on the transfer head which is projected outside the case is absorbed so as to improve the operability of the coating film transfer tool, the coating film transfer tool includes a coating film transfer section which is disposed in an interior of an accommodation case, and the coating film transfer section includes a supply bobbin, a take-up bobbin and a rotation transmitting device for transmitting the rotation of the supply bobbin to the take-up bobbin, and the coating film transfer section also includes a transfer head in such a state that the transfer head is projected from the coating film transfer section around which an unwound transfer tape from the supply bobbin is made to be suspended, a knocking member projected from the rear end of the accommodation case, a rotary member and a rotary support member disposed between the coating film transfer section and the knocking member, and an elastic member for biasing the coating film transfer section to the rearward, wherein the rotary support member has flexible support arms so that the coating film transfer section can be slightly moved back and forth within the accommodation case.
US08297327B2 Hand held dual sided tape dispensing machine
A hand held adhesive tape dispensing machine for joining tape strips originating from two tape rolls to form one tape strip of a desired length with partially exposed adhesive on both sides, which has an offset frame structure supporting guide members to maintain tape positions; roller that tape strips join on; spools that can accommodate varying widths of tape; cutting blade for severing tape; and handle for grasping.
US08297324B2 Pneumatic tire for motorcycle
The present invention provides a pneumatic tire for a motorcycle, in which tire durability at a relatively high speed in running straight is enhanced with maintaining good gripping performances in cornering situation by optimizing the distribution of loss tangent in tread rubbers constituting a tread portion. The pneumatic tire for a motorcycle includes a pair of bead portions 1 having bead cores embedded therein, a pair of sidewalls 2 extending on the outer side in the tire radial direction from the bead portions 1, and a tread portion 3 extending over the respective sidewall portions 2, wherein the tread portion 3 is constituted of at least four tread regions such that, when the tread regions are viewed in a section in the tire widthwise direction, loss tangent values of rubbers constituting the adjacent tread regions are different from each other, and a loss tangent value of a rubber constituting a center tread region 5 as a tread region including the tire equatorial plane 4, of the tread regions, is smaller than a loss tangent value of each of rubbers constituting other tread regions 6.
US08297322B2 Beverage filling plant for filling beverage containers with a beverage having a device for the feeding and removal of beverage containers
A beverage bottling plant for filling bottles with a liquid beverage filling material having a device for the feeding and removal of containers, in particular for the feeding of upright kegs, barrels, cans, bottles and similar containers from a conveyor belt to a linear conveyor or revolving carousel turntable or also for the return of said containers to a removal conveyor belt with a star wheel, the star pockets of which or the arms of which can be brought at least partly in contact with the container and which are realized so that they can be adjusted to accommodate different containers The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US08297313B1 Pressure abatement emergency shut down assembly with a collapsible member retained valve member
A fluid control assembly configured to isolate a pressurized fluid, including an under pressure abatement assembly having a collapsible member and an energy storage member for exerting a collapsing force on the collapsible member while contactingly engaging a pivotal valve member. A conduit path directs pressurized fluid to exert a force in opposition to the collapsing force so that when the fluid pressure falls below a low pressure threshold, the collapsing force will collapse the collapsible member and release the valve member. An over pressure abatement assembly can be included having a second collapsible member and a second valve member, a conduit path directing pressurized fluid to exert a force in a direction to collapse the second collapsible member and release the second valve member when the fluid pressure exceeds an upper pressure threshold.
US08297311B2 Controlling gas partial pressures for process optimization
Apparatus for establishing and controlling a low pressure gas mixture in a vacuum enclosure (8) comprises at least one secondary pump (9) of the molecular, turbomolecular, or hybrid type, followed by at least one primary pump (10), with first control and adjustment means (22) such as a regulation valve (24) for controlling and adjusting the total gas pressure of the mixture of gases in the vacuum enclosure (8) as a function of a total pressure setpoint (27). The apparatus further comprises second control and adjustment means (28) such as a second regulation valve (29a) downstream from the secondary pump (9). The second regulation valve (29a) is controlled as a function of a delivery pressure setpoint (32) to modify the delivery pressure of the secondary pump (9) and thus to adapt its pumping capacity in selective manner. This makes it possible to adjust the proportions of the gases in the mixture of gases in the vacuum enclosure, independently of the total pressure which is controlled by the first regulation valve (24).
US08297308B2 Cartridge
The invention relates to a cartridge (1) for insertion into a receptacle of a motor vehicle handling facility having an interior chamber (2) which receives a liquid or pasty medium, an outlet (7), that can be opened so that the cartridge (1) can be used, and a data carrier (8) set up for touch-free electromagnetic signal transmission and positioned at a distance (5) to the interior chamber (2) of the cartridge (1) that is greater than a wall-thickness of the cartridge (1). Conventional cartridges of this kind are not sufficiently secure against confusion and resistant to outside influences. The task of making a cartridge available that cannot be confused, is reliable, space saving and resistant to outside influences, especially when in motor vehicle handling facilities, is solved by running an interior chamber floor (4) parallel and at a distance (5) to the floor of the cartridge (6) to which the data carrier (8) is allocated, or that the interior floor of the chamber (4) runs partially inclined to the floor of the cartridge (6) and the data carrier (8) is situated in the area of the greatest distance (11) between the interior floor of the chamber (4) and the cartridge floor (6).
US08297306B2 Fluid regulator
A fluid regulator that has excellent flow-rate-control response for not only pressure fluctuations at the primary side but also pressure fluctuations at the secondary side and that realizes highly accurate flow-rate control is provided. A fluid regulator 10 includes a first diaphragm chamber 16 in which a working force obtained from a gas, such as air, is received by a first diaphragm 14 to generate a force for adjusting a valve opening, a second diaphragm chamber 17 in which pressure fluctuations of a fluid introduced from a secondary side are received by a second diaphragm 15 to generate a force for adjusting the valve opening, a shaft 12 that receives the adjusting forces generated in the first diaphragm chamber 16 and the second diaphragm chamber 17 and slides in the shaft direction, a valve 13 that operates together with the shaft 12 to adjust the valve opening, a partition wall 11a that isolates the first diaphragm chamber 16 from the second diaphragm chamber 17 so as not to interfere with each other, and a bellows 22 that blocks the circulation of the fluid between the first diaphragm chamber 16 and the second diaphragm chamber 17.
US08297305B2 Valve assembly having an improved flow path
A valve assembly is disclosed providing a disk valve, a retaining clip configuration, and a bonnet nut. The disk valve comprises a moveable disk having a pair of recesses that is rotatable relative to a stationary disk to regulate the flow of a fluid through two ports in communication with the disks. The retaining clip configuration comprises a hose clip engaging a retaining segment on a valve housing and two hoses to connect the two hoses to two ports on the valve housing. The bonnet nut provides a tactile resistance to an applied torque when a portion of the valve cartridge assembly is rotated in relation to the valve housing.
US08297304B2 Storage container for liquid chlorosilane and closing lid therefor
The storage container for a liquid chlorosilane of the present invention comprises, a tank which stores the liquid chlorosilane, a valve which is connected to the tank and to which an external pipe can be connected detachably, and a closing lid which seals the valve when the external pipe is detached from the valve. The valve comprises a housing and a valve body provided in the housing. The closing lid has a lid body having a sealing surface contacting the connecting surface of the connecting flange, a supply pipe which supplies an inert gas to a space between the closing lid and the valve body in the housing, a supply valve which opens or closes the supply pipe, a discharge pipe which discharges a gas in the space, and a discharge valve which opens or closes the discharge pipe.
US08297302B2 Flow cell spray ring
A flow cell device for observing a fluid includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, a first viewing member, and a second viewing member. The first viewing member, which is disposed in and coupled to the housing, includes a first window and a spray ring. The spray ring includes cleaning ports in fluid communication with a cleaning fluid inlet port. The second viewing member includes a second window and is disposed in and coupled to the housing opposite the first viewing member such that an aperture that is in fluid communication with the inlet and the outlet is defined between the first window and the second window. The spray ring does not extend past a surface of the first window facing the aperture and each of the cleaning ports is oriented such that a fluid provided under pressure to the cleaning ports is ejected toward the second window.
US08297301B2 Nozzle device for pump
A nozzle device includes a body, a controller and a core set. The controller is pivotally mounted on the body and is pivotable with respect to the body between a first position and a second position. The core set is slideably received in the body. While the controller is in the first position, the core set is slideable in the chamber and is adapted for coupling with a French type valve. While the controller is in the second position, the core set is fixed and is adapted for coupling with an American type valve.
US08297300B2 Anti-backflow vacuum breaker valve
An anti-back flow vacuum breaker valve that includes a valve body having a cylindrical internal chamber having an upper portion and a reduced diameter lower portion forming a horizontal valve seat, and having an inlet communicating with the chamber on the underside of the valve seat, and having an outlet communicating with the chamber on the over side of the valve seat. A ball is positioned within the internal chamber for sealing the inlet of the valve body. A valve cap having a lower portion mating with the upper portion of the valve body sealed and securely attached to the valve body, and having an internal conical chamber having a central vertical journal therein, forming a journal vent with a vent seat at the lower end thereof aligned with the valve seat of the body. A buoyant vent plug having an upper stem slidably engaged within the journal vent of the cap, and the vent plug engagable with the vent seat, wherein the vent plug for elevation by the ball upon fluid flow through the inlet to seal the vent, and wherein the vent plug for elevation by backflow of fluid through the outlet to seal the vent.
US08297293B2 Substrate support unit, and substrate treating apparatus and method using the same
Provided are a substrate support unit and a substrate treating apparatus and method using the same. The substrate support unit includes a first support part and a second support part. The first support part is movable in a first direction. The first support part supports a first portion of a substrate in which a processing fluid is supplied in a direction corresponding to the first direction. The second support part is movable in a second direction. The second support part supports a second portion of the substrate. At least one of the first support part and the second support part supports the substrate while the processing fluid is supplied.
US08297290B2 Multi-angled dental floss holder
A dental floss holder includes a shank (11), an adjusting member (12) pivotally mounted on the shank and a cleaning unit (20) detachably mounted on the adjusting member. Thus, the rotation portion (111) of the shank is rotated relative to the mounting portion (122) of the adjusting member to adjust the inclined angle between the shank and the adjusting member so that the inclined angle between the shank and the cleaning unit is adjusted according to a user's requirement so as to facilitate the user clearing the teeth in different inclined angles.
US08297283B2 Respiratory masks with gusseted cushions
Cushions for respiratory face masks have a frame-connecting portion, a face-contacting portion, and a gusset portion disposed between and joining the frame-connecting and face-contacting portions. The gusset portion preferably includes at least one perimetrical region which having a laterally projecting exterior gusset section and a laterally projecting interior gusset section. According to one aspect, the laterally projecting exterior and interior gusset sections are disposed about the entire perimeter to the gusset portion so as to establish a substantially constant widthwise dimension thereof about the gusset's entire perimeter.
US08297279B2 Portable ventilator system
A portable ventilator uses a ROOTS-type blower as a compressor to reduce both the size and power consumption of the ventilator. Various functional aspects of the ventilator are delegated to multiple subassemblies having dedicated controllers and software that interact with a ventilator processor to provide user interface functions, exhalation control and flow control servos, and monitoring of patient status. The ventilator overcomes noise problems through the use of noise reducing pressure compensating orifices on the ROOTS-type blower housing and multiple baffling chambers. The ventilator is configured with a highly portable form factor, and may be used as a stand-alone device or as a docked device having a docking cradle with enhanced interface and monitoring capabilities.
US08297276B2 Dry snorkels and methods
Methods are disclosed for improving the performance and design of snorkels (20) that are arranged to reduce splashes of water from entering the snorkel (20) during use. Methods including providing a non-floating active portion (72) and a spring member (54) to move active portion (72) to a closed position (68). Methods are provided for using weighted members (94) and, or floats (44) in conjunction with biasing members (54) exerted with torque across pivoting arms (42) and along longitudinal directions of motion (100). Methods are provided for enabling dry top snorkel devices (38) to automatically achieve, maintain or reestablish a closed position (68) at depth even if little or no pressure differential exists between the inside and outside of the snorkel (20) or if the sealed connection is disengaged at depth, such as can occur during a firm exhale at depth. Other methods are providing for moving the sealing member (46) to a closed position (68) even if no float (44) is used or if no spring member (54) is used.
US08297275B2 Adjustable oral airway devices, and adjustable oral airway kits
Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway devices. The devices may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector extending through the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block. Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway kits. Such kits may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector configured to extend within an opening in the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block.
US08297273B2 Controlling apparatus for a concentration photovoltaic system
Disclosed is a controlling apparatus for use in a photovoltaic system. The photovoltaic system includes a solar cell array, an inverter and a solar tracker. The solar tracker includes a solar position sensor, a controller connected to the solar position sensor, a first motor connected to the controller for rotating the solar cell array according to the azimuth of the sun and a second motor connected to the controller for tilting the solar cell array according to the elevation of the sun. The controlling apparatus includes a central unit, a basic unit, a diagnosis unit, a maintenance unit, a security unit and a check unit.
US08297268B2 Apparatus for launching subcaliber projectiles at propellant operating pressures including the range of operating pressures that may be supplied by human breath
A blowgun for efficiently and accurately launching subcaliber projectiles comprises: an elongate barrel; a detent comprising a magnet affixed near the proximal end of the barrel and a protrusion partially obstructing the bore breech; an associated conical shell discarding sabot; and an associated subcaliber projectile having a magnetically attractable foreshaft and a lightweight elongate shaft. The magnet and the protrusion cooperate antagonistically to hold the projectile abuttingly seated against the sabot in loaded disposition pending launch. The projectile shaft serves in-flight as an aerodynamic stabilizer. Alternatively a subcaliber steel BB-shot is launched with a foam sabot. Another alternative embodiment operates without a detent. An additional alternative embodiment utilizes a blowgun comprising a barrel having a longitudinal straight-line groove in the inner surface of the bore. During launch, the groove guides a cooperating portion of an optional projectile, selectively subcaliber or full-caliber.
US08297267B2 Unit for fastening of the bowstring throwing devices (variants)
A unit for fastening a bowstring of a throwing device the containing a first pulley mounted with a possibility of rotation about the axis of rotation of the first pulley and having the first and the second peripheral surfaces, the second pulley mounted with a possibility of rotation about the axis of rotation of the second pulley, spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the first pulley and having the first and the second peripheral surfaces, a bowstring for throwing a projectile having one end fixed to the first pulley, and other end fixed to the second pulley so the bowstring for throwing a projectile is, at least, partly wrapping the first peripheral surfaces of the first and the second pulleys, the first tension bowstring having one end fixed to the axis of rotation of the first pulley, and other end fixed to the second pulley so the first tension bowstring is, at least, partly wrapping the second peripheral surface of the second pulley, the second tension bowstring having one end fixed to the axis of rotation of the second pulley, and the other end fixed to the first pulley, so the second tension bowstring is, at least, partly wrapping the second peripheral surface of the first pulley and intersects the first tension bowstring, thus when rendering the throwing device in the cocked position the bowstring for throwing a projectile intersects the first and the second tension bowstrings.
US08297266B2 Control apparatus for an internal combustion engine
Provided is a control apparatus for an internal combustion engine which is capable of estimating a single composition concentration based on an air-fuel ratio correction amount obtained by using an output of an air-fuel ratio sensor in exhaust gas and optimizing a fuel injection amount by using a concentration estimation value. When fueling is performed again during alcohol concentration change after the fueling, an alcohol concentration estimation period or a start determination period for the alcohol concentration change is extended by an integrated fuel injection amount from initial fueling until refueling, whereby alcohol concentration estimation accuracy is improved with respect to the alcohol concentration change due to the initial fueling and the refueling.
US08297263B2 Vacuum supply system
A method of operating a boosted engine system is described in which an ejector coupled with a fuel vapor purging system can generate vacuum during both purging and non-purging conditions, and during both boosted and non-boosted conditions. The vacuum can therefore be used to power vacuum actuated brakes, and/or other vacuum actuators, irrespective of the purging conditions, and irrespective of boost levels.
US08297260B2 Fuel supply system
A fuel supply system includes a covering member, a subtank, a first housing on the covering member to project toward the subtank, terminals in the first housing, a second housing fitted to the first housing, and lead wires in the second housing connected respectively to the terminals. The first housing includes a fitting recess opening toward the subtank, and a partition wall dividing the recess into spaces, each of which receives a corresponding terminal. The second housing includes a fitting projection fitted into the recess, a slit dividing the projection into blocks, each of which receives a corresponding terminal, the partition wall being inserted in the slit, and axial holes, each of which accommodates a corresponding wire. Each wire includes a corresponding one of elastic seal members. Each seal member seals a gap between a corresponding wire and a wall surface of a corresponding axial hole.
US08297258B2 Method and device for operating an internal combustion engine
A method for operating an internal combustion engine (2) having multiple cylinders (3); fuel may be injected into the multiple cylinders (3) via corresponding injectors, and air may be let in via corresponding intake valves (9) in order to form an air-fuel mixture in the cylinders (3) for providing a drive torque, and combustion exhaust gas may be discharged from the cylinders (3) via a catalytic converter (6); having the following steps: operating the internal combustion engine (2) in a first engine operating mode in which no fuel is injected into at least one first cylinder (3), so that the at least one first cylinder (3) does not contribute to the drive torque, and fuel is only injected into at least one second cylinder (3) in order to provide the drive torque; and switching to a second engine operating mode in which fuel is injected into the at least one first cylinder (3) and into the at least one second cylinder (3), so that the at least one first cylinder (3) and the at least one second cylinder (3) contribute to providing the drive torque; wherein in switching to the second engine operating mode the combustion is carried out using excess air in the at least one second cylinder (3), so that a portion of the air let into the at least one second cylinder (3), together with the combustion exhaust gas, passes into the catalytic converter (6).
US08297254B2 Multifuel storage, metering and ignition system
A system for safe storage and efficient utilization of a variety of fuel selections that range in composition and phase from cryogenic mixtures of solids and liquids to elevated temperature gases is provided for unique applications with various types of heat engines and fuel cells including hybridized combinations.
US08297253B2 Rotary piston engine
A rotary piston engine with a frame, a cylinder liner mounted rotatably therein, a rotor mounted coaxially in the cylinder liner and a gear mechanism connecting the frame, the liner and the rotor, where the gear mechanism is outside a working space arranged between liner and rotor and where the gear mechanism couples the cylinder liner and the rotor for a relative movement periodically oscillating between positive and negative rotational speed. The gear mechanism and the liner form with the rotor a transmission with five rotational joints with a degree of freedom of one and one rotational/prismatic joint, where the gear mechanism has a rotational element mounted rotatably by a first rotational joint on the frame and a connecting rod connected rotatably by a second rotational joint to the rotational element and rotatably by a third rotational joint to the cylinder liner and by the rotational/prismatic joint to the rotor.
US08297250B2 Recoil starter
A recoil starter includes a case; a reel pivot formed on the case; a rope reel rotatably supported on the reel pivot; a recoil spring; a cam; a power storage spring interposed between the rope reel and the cam; and a power storage ratchet mechanism disposed between facing surfaces of the rope reel and the cam and. The power storage ratchet mechanism is configured to disengage the rope reel and the cam when the rope reel rotates in an engine-starting direction, and engage the rope reel and the cam when the rope reel rotates in an opposite direction to the engine-starting direction.
US08297246B2 Adjustable camshaft sprocket assembly and tool for same
An adjustable camshaft sprocket assembly includes a hub and a sprocket body secured to the hub. A stud-receiving opening is defined in one of the hub flange and the sprocket body, and a tool-receiving opening is defined in the other of the hub flange and the sprocket body. The tool-receiving opening is aligned with the stud-receiving opening and is adapted to receive a body portion of an adjustment tool, and the stud-receiving opening is adapted to receive an eccentric stud of the adjustment tool. Either the stud-receiving opening or the tool-receiving opening is elongated. Rotation of the adjustment tool when its body is located in the tool-receiving opening and its eccentric stud is located in the stud-receiving opening causes relative angular movement between the hub and the sprocket body. One or more fasteners are used to immovably secure the sprocket body to the hub after adjustment. A tool includes cylindrical base, a driving head, and an eccentric stud. The stud comprises a spring pin press-fit into a bore.
US08297245B2 Valve timing adjuster
A valve timing adjuster includes a first rotor, a second rotor, a control valve, and a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes a retard limitation pin and an advance limitation pin, each of which is provided to the second rotor. The lock mechanism includes a retard limitation groove and an advance limitation groove, each of which is formed to the first rotor. The retard limitation groove and the advance limitation groove are designed to limit the displacement of the retard limitation pin in the retard direction and simultaneously limit the displacement of the advance limitation pin in the advance direction in order to lock the first rotor and the second rotor. The valve timing adjuster alternately increases the oil pressure in the retard chamber and the oil pressure in the advance chamber when the lock of the first and second rotors is released.
US08297237B2 High inertance liquid piston engine-compressor and method of use thereof
A high inertance liquid piston engine-compressor that is lightweight, portable and for use with pneumatically actuated devices that may have periods of inactivity between periods of pneumatic use. The engine-compressor provides a power generation system that is for use with mobile or portable devices which need a portable long lasting energy source.
US08297234B2 Modular leash system
A modular leash system including a flexible lead having a first and second rigid end portion. A first end cap is removably attachable to the first rigid end portion via set screw configured to be received through cooperating holes in the first end cap and the first rigid end portion. The first end cap includes a loop for coupling the first end cap to a collar connector. A second end cap is removably attachable to the second rigid end portion via a set screw configured to be received through cooperating holes in the second end cap and the second rigid end portion. The second end cap configured to be coupled to a handle portion.
US08297231B2 System and methods for health monitoring of anonymous animals in livestock groups
A system and method for tracking the health of a group of livestock. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the vital signs of a small number of sentinel animals is tracked and used to assess the existence and/or progress of a disease in the group. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the vital signs are assessed using a vitality sensor, for example, an accelerometer which provides signals indicating the type and/or other properties of movements made by the sentinel animals.
US08297230B2 Apparatus, system, and method for isolating and venting a litter box
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for isolating and venting a litter box. The apparatus includes an enclosure for a litter box, an access door and a pet door in the enclosure, at least one vent between an interior and an exterior of the enclosure, and an exit duct between the interior and the exterior of the enclosure. The system includes a pet enclosure having an enclosure door, a pet door, at least one vent, and at least one exhaust duct, a litter box adapted for placement in the enclosure, a motor and fan in fluid communication with the exit duct, and a conduit from the exit duct adapted for fluid connection to an exterior of a house. The method includes enclosing a litter box in a pet container, drawing outside air through at least one vent in the pet container into an interior of the pet container and exhausting air from the pet container out through an exit duct.
US08297229B1 Feed container with retention system
A feed container for storing hardened livestock feed is disclosed. The feed container has a storage area defined by a bottom wall and a sidewall for retaining animal feed within the storage area when the feed is in a solid phase and the feed container is in a non-upward resting position or is on its sidewall. Also disclosed is a method for utilizing a feed container, having said storage area, for retaining animal feed within the storage area when the feed is in a solid phase and the feed container is in a non-upward resting position or is on its sidewall.
US08297226B2 Deposition box for silicon-based thin film solar cell
A movable deposition box (02) for silicon-based thin film solar cell comprises an electrode array composed of at least a group of cathode plates (203) and a piece of anode plate (208) which are set in movable chamber, wherein a feeding socket (203-1) is positioned on a circular or semicircular concave surface in the center area on the backside of the cathode plates (203), a circular or semicircular end face (201-1) of a feeding component (201) which has a flat middle part contacts the signal feeding socket (203-1) and feeds in RF/VHF power signal, the anode plate (208) is grounded, and a shield cover (204) of the cathode plate has through-hole (204-1) and is insulated from the cathode plate (203).
US08297225B2 Capacitive CVD reactor and methods for plasma CVD process
A decoupled capacitive CVD reactor is described, which provides improved CVD capabilities, including processing at lower temperatures, performing alternating deposition and etching steps, and performing in situ cleaning of the chamber, without the need for a remote plasma source. Two RF frequencies are coupled to the susceptor, while the anode is grounded. The high frequency RF source is operated so as to control the plasma density, while the low frequency RF source is operated to control species bombardment on the substrate, so as to control the properties of the film being deposited. Additionally, both RF sources may be controlled, together with selection of gasses supplied to the chamber, to operate the chamber either in deposition mode, partial etch mode, etching mode, or cleaning mode.
US08297221B2 Apparatus for slot die setup and control during coating
The invention relates generally to an apparatus and method that enables a very accurate initial setup of the coating gap for slot die coater and subsequent control of the coating gap during coating operations such that web splices and web defects do not interrupt the coating process. An highly accurate initial set up is achieved via the use of a tapered or wedge-shaped adjustment member mounted perpendicular to the axis of travel of the coating head where the movement of this tapered or wedge-shaped adjustment member in a direction perpendicular to the axis of travel of the slot die housing adjusts the coating gap in increments on the order of ten microns. Substrate splices and defects are detected prior to reaching the coating position such that a feed-forward controller is able to momentarily retract the coating head both avoiding slot die damage and avoiding interruption of the coating process, yet the apparatus is able to return the coating head, with high precision, to its prior position once the splice or defect has passed.
US08297219B2 Spray apparatus and coating system using same
An exemplary spray apparatus includes a first nozzle assembly and a second nozzle assembly, which are parallel to each other. The first nozzle assembly includes a plurality of feed inlets and a feed outlet in communication with the feed inlets. The first nozzle assembly configured for spraying a liquid coating material on a substrate. The feed inlets are aligned along a first imaginary straight line. The second nozzle assembly includes a plurality of air inlets and an air outlet in communication with the air inlets. The second nozzle assembly is configured for spraying air with uniform air toward the liquid coating material applied on the substrate. The air inlets are aligned along a second imaginary straight line parallel with the first imaginary straight line.
US08297212B2 Travel beginning/end adjusting positioning structure for a sewing machine motor drive mechanism
A travel beginning/end adjusting positioning structure for a sewing machine motor drive mechanism comprises a fixed holder, a positioning holder and an adjusting apparatus. By adjusting the relative position of the center of the rotating element of the motor and the control shaft using the adjusting apparatus, the control element on one end of the control shaft will rotate synchronously, and a mechanism connected to the other end of the control shaft will also rotate to a beginning and an end points of a different travel. By such arrangements, when the control element is driven by the motor, the mechanism connected to the control shaft will operate according to different travels, thus achieving the objective of adjusting travel.
US08297204B1 Adjustable table system
An adjustable table system featuring a table, a brace slidably attached to the bottom of the table, and a pedestal extending downwardly from the brace. A wall plate for attaching to a wall is slidably attached to a side edge of the table such that the table can slide in a with respect to the wall. A portion of the wall plate with protrusions extends downwardly below the bottom of the table. A shaft mounted to the table via a mount can move between a first position wherein the first end of the shaft is inserted into a protrusion and a second position wherein the first end of the shaft is out of the protrusion. The spring-loaded mount biases the shaft in the first position. When the first end of the shaft is out of the protrusions the table can slide side to side with respect to the wall.
US08297202B2 Body frame structure of railway vehicle
To join vertically and horizontally arranged frame members to the interior face of an outer panel, the horizontal frame members are disposed on the outer panel so as to take precedence over the vertical frame members and are weld-joined to the outer panel. The vertical frame members are placed on the horizontal frame members from the interior side and are weld-joined to the horizontal frame members. The vertical frame member includes a standard-width frame member and a wide-width frame member having a width greater than the width of the standard-width frame member. The vertical frame members are joined to and in contact with the outer panel at a reduced number of points, so that the appearance of the outer panel is maintained in a good condition. With this configuration, a low cost vertical and horizontal frame structure is achieved, which has sufficiently high joint strength that provides the required strength of the outer panel.
US08297201B2 Method to high availability control for railway doors systems, on board system and application to accessories and surroundings of doors
The invention aims at increasing the availability of doors systems without affecting the reliability of control systems. For this purpose, the invention provides to take advantage of the alternating operation of door systems positioned on either side of the same car.An on-board panel system according to the invention includes associated control panels control means for transmitting authorization signals for the exclusive opening of side doors. The control means combine a low speed signal and a validation side selection signal to carry out, in each environment, opening/closing authorizations of the motor control of its environment and the motor control of the associated environment.Applications to the accessories and the mechanical part of the railway door systems (motors, latch fittings, loudspeakers, etc) as well as their door environment (interface with the communication network).
US08297198B2 Hydraulic-electric regenerative energy storage system
A hydraulic energy storage system (comprising a hydraulic pump/motor, a high pressure hydraulic accumulator, a low pressure hydraulic accumulator/reservoir, and interconnecting hydraulic lines) is incorporated into a EV, HEV, or PHEV to provide hydraulic regenerative braking and propulsive assistance for the vehicle. Implementation of the low cost and long-lasting hydraulic energy storage system in the vehicle, together with the electric energy storage system (comprising a motor/generator and battery pack) of the vehicle, allows significantly reduced demands and higher operating efficiencies for the battery pack, thereby facilitating a more cost-effective, efficient and/or durable overall energy storage system for the vehicle.
US08297196B2 Apparatus for transferring substrates
An apparatus for transferring substrates includes a carrier to which substrates are loaded, an upper transfer unit transferring the carrier horizontally by applying thrust to the carrier, a lower transfer unit maintaining the lower body of the carrier at the horizontal in a non-contact status, a magnetic levitation module levitating the carrier magnetically, and a lower damper unit maintaining the lower center of gravity of the carrier levitated by the magnetic levitation module.
US08297192B2 Insensitive munitions warhead explosive venting system
A venting system for a casing containing an explosive material includes a base plug having one or more venting ports. A ring-shaped failure mechanism mounted to the base plug seals the venting ports. The failure mechanism has a selected melting temperature such that raising the temperature of the failure mechanism to its melting temperature causes the failure mechanism to unseal the venting port to allow controlled burning of the explosive material. An insert ring formed of a durable material to protect the failure mechanism from being damaged may be mounted on an outer surface of the failure mechanism. An adhesive may be used to seal gaps between the failure mechanism, the insert ring and the base plug. The failure mechanism may have a peripheral tab formed to fit within a corresponding groove in the base plug to mount the failure mechanism securely to the base plug.
US08297191B2 Pressure seal
A seal is provided that restricts movement of adjacent parts when in a high pressure environment while allowing relative movement of adjacent parts when in non-high pressure environment.
US08297187B2 Impact locating day and night marker for a projectile
A marking projectile comprises separate compartments that break during launch due to rotation of the projectile as it leaves the barrel of a weapon. Metal pellets contained within the compartments are pressed outward and pierce the compartment walls. This allows for mixing of chemical materials contained within the compartments, so that the materials substantially react by the time the projectile strikes a target. The chemical materials may be a pair of chemi-luminescent components, or components that create heat for thermal marking.
US08297185B2 Duplex printing apparatus with a storage section for storing a plurality of sheets
A duplex printing apparatus is equipped with: a first printing section for printing on first sides of sheets; a storage section for storing a plurality of the sheets, the first sides of which have been printed on; a second printing section for printing on second sides of the sheets; a first conveying section for sequentially conveying the sheets, the first sides of which have been printed on, to the storage section; and a second conveying second for sequentially conveying the plurality of sheets which are stored at the storage section to the second printing section. The storage section is equipped with a holding mechanism that holds the plurality of sheets, the first sides of which have been printed on, in an overlapped state with predetermined intervals therebetween.
US08297180B2 Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems
Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.
US08297179B2 Process for hardening an annular groove of a piston head by means of laser beams and a piston produced by the process
A process for hardening an annular groove of a piston head of a piston of an internal combustion engine by means of laser beams, in which, at least the annular groove to be hardened is provided before or directly during the hardening process with a coating which absorbs the energy of laser beams. The coating is subsequently irradiated by the laser beams. The absorbing layer can be a manganese phosphate coating or is formed in situ by treating the component surface with a process gas comprising oxygen and inert gas. Furthermore, the laser beams are directed at the piston during hardening at an oblique angle to the direction of rotation. The advantages achieved are avoidance of reflections and undesirable hardening of the bottom of the groove, an increased degree of absorption and reduced distortion of the piston.
US08297176B2 Semiautomatic firearm having lighter cocking action
An improved semiautomatic firearm is provided comprising as assembly which reduces the effort of cocking the firearm or loading a first cartridge. A spring tube contains an inner recoil spring which is employed only during cycling of the firearm when firing. For initial cocking purposes, the inner recoil spring is bypassed in favor of a lighter outer spring which is selectively engaged by the user. When the inner recoil spring is engaged, both inner and outer springs are employed without adversely affecting the recoil dynamics of the firearm.
US08297174B1 Apparatus and method for gun recoil mitigation
A weapon may include a translatable recoil mass and two translatable counterweights disposed on opposite sides of the recoil mass. Each counterweight may have a mass that is substantially one-half a mass of the recoil mass. A pair of racks may be fixed to respective ones of the counterweights and a second pair of racks may be fixed to opposites sides of the recoil mass. Pinions may engage the counterweight and recoil mass racks. A receiver may be fixed with respect to the recoil mass and the pair of counterweights. The directions of translation of the recoil mass are substantially opposite directions of translation of the two counterweights.
US08297173B1 Modular weapon video display system
An improved modular video display system for a weapon having a video display module that can accommodate multiple camera inputs. The video display module contains a video control panel and human-viewable display screen, which enables the operator to switch between viewing and controlling a thermal sight and a left and right rotating camera. The video display module and cameras are powered by a power supply, which is electrically coupled to the weapons accessory devices, once each device is mounted on the modular rails. The cameras are connected to the video display module and the weapons operator may select either a thermal display using the thermal sight or an image display of the left or right using the left and right rotating camera. The control panel enables the operator to personalize the display screen in order to best suit their current situational needs with controls for camera select, reticle style, reticle color, reticle intensity, bore sight keys, black hot/white hot image select, digital zoom, and display brightness. In conjunction with the modular video display system additional accessory devices may be used, such as laser sights, spotting scopes, and handgrip units.
US08297171B2 Torque limiter for a gun turret
Improvements in a torque limiter that uses a plurality of ball bearings that are retained in a cage. The ball bearings are compressed to create frictional drag on opposing flat plate surfaces. In some military vehicles the gun turret is rotated by personnel turning a crank that rotates the turret. The crank rotates a pinion or chain that turns the rack of the turret. When the turret does not move freely the personnel will typically apply more force that results in damaging the pinion, chain and or the rack. The torque limiter for a gun turret in this application connects between the crank and the drive train to allow the crank to turn without applying excessive torque forces on the pinion, chain and or the rack.
US08297170B2 Modular, adaptable ballistic protective construction in particular for a weapons turret
The invention embodies the turret (10) as a protected cell (1) with its own protective plates (7) and then provides this with an additional casing of protective plates (9) so that both together implement a modular protective construction with different levels of protection. Outside the protected cell (1), assemblies (2) can be arranged that do not need to be within the direct reach of the operator. This can be in addition to the ammunition, the electronics for the ammunition feed, and also the electronics of the turret control or the like. These assemblies (2) are again encased by a lattice structure (8) that serves as an accommodation possibility for other protective elements (9) that form the outer skin of the turret (10).
US08297162B2 Method and a device for identifying and neutralizing an undersea mine
A method of identifying and optionally neutralizing an undersea object (1, 1′) that might be an undersea mine and that is of known geographical position, in which an undersea intervention robot (4, 4′) is used suspended under an aircraft capable of stationary flight, such as a helicopter (7) or a drone, serving to bring the robot (4, 4′) into register with the object (1, 1′) for identification and possibly for being neutralized, the object is identified, and optionally it is neutralized.
US08297159B2 Table saw with dropping blade
A power tool in one embodiment is a table saw which includes a latch hold mechanism, a swing arm movable along a swing arm path between a first position adjacent the latch hold mechanism and a second position spaced apart from the latch hold mechanism, a latch movable between a first position whereat the swing arm is maintained at the first position and a second position whereat the swing arm is not maintained at the first position, an actuating device configured to transfer a force to the swing arm when the swing arm is maintained at the first position, and a control system configured to control the actuating device to transfer a force to the swing arm when the swing arm is maintained at the first position sufficient to move the latch from the first position to the second position.
US08297149B2 Friction drive actuator
A friction drive actuator, comprising: a vibration member which is configured to be driven to vibrate by expansion and contraction of a piezoelectric displacement portion which is included in the vibration member and driven by a driving signal; a sliding member which is in contact with the vibration member and is driven by the vibration member in a first direction with respect to the vibration member; a pressing member which causes the vibration member and the sliding member to come into a pressure contact therebetween; and a control member which is provided on each of the vibration member and the sliding member at a contact portion therebetween for controlling a relative movement of the sliding member with respect to the vibration member in a direction perpendicular to the first direction when the vibration member and the sliding member are pressedly contacted with each other by the pressing member.
US08297148B1 Modular adjustable handlebar kit
The Modular Adjustable Handlebar Kit contains a center mounting segment and linking units of varying degrees of angles, curves and/or segments with differing shapes both radius and straight and/or compounded curves with straights. Each of the linking units have a male and female end and are attached to adjoining linking units and center mounting segment via means of a plurality of aligning openings spaced about the circumference of each end of the linking units and a securing mechanism. The openings on the male end of the linking units form inner and outer rows, in which the openings are offset from each other. The female ends of the linking units have front and rear openings which are generally parallel to each other. The securing mechanism may be a clamping device and may utilize a dowel which extends through the aligned openings on the adjoined linking units. The clamping device is then secured to prevent disengagement of the pin.
US08297144B2 Operating device for manual transmission apparatus
An operating device for a manual transmission apparatus, comprising a plurality of operation shafts, a shift-and-select shaft having an engagement groove extending in a circumferential direction thereof, selecting one of a plurality of operation shafts by rotating and moving the selected operation shaft in an axial direction thereof by moving in an axial direction of the shift-and-select shaft, an operating portion for manually operating the shift-and-select shaft, an inertia unit including an engagement pin, positioned within the engagement groove and pivoting in response to a movement of the shift-and-select shaft in the axial direction thereof, and a swing-and-contact member provided at the engagement pin of the inertia unit so as to swing when being pressed by one of first and second inner surfaces of the engagement groove in accordance with the movement of the shift-and-select shaft and contacting the first and second inner surfaces of the engagement groove.
US08297143B2 Electrical bicycle shift control device
An electrical bicycle shift control device is provided with a base member, a first shift operating member and a second shift operating member. The handlebar mounting portion is configured to be fixedly mounted to a free end of a bicycle handlebar. The base member includes a handlebar mounting portion that is configured to be fixedly mounted a handlebar. The first shift operating member is pivotally coupled the base member from a rest position to a shift position in a first shift operating direction. The second shift operating member is mounted on the first shift operating member to move with the first shift operating member with respect to the base member. The second shift operating member is independently movable relative the first shift operating member from a rest position to a shift position in a second shift operating direction that is different to the first shift operating direction.
US08297142B2 Actuator
Since centers of a second gear, a fourth gear and a sixth gear coincide with each other and are disposed rotatably round a circumference of the same long shaft, a compact configuration can be realized while using a gear train of five gears to obtain a reduction gear ratio of a high gear ratio. The configuration in which the three gears have the same rotational center shaft in the way described above in an actuator which incorporates a plurality of gears is advantageous in that the number of center shafts is reduced and that the number of supporting holes in a housing which support center shafts is reduced.
US08297141B2 Transmission for a road vehicle with hybrid propulsion
Transmission for a road vehicle with hybrid propulsion; the transmission having: a gearbox provided with one primary shaft, one secondary shaft and at least one pump actuated by an activating shaft; at least one clutch connected to the primary shaft and having a part which is normally conductive and can be connected to a drive shaft of a thermal engine; a reversible electric machine having a shaft mechanically connectable to the primary shaft; a first mechanical transmission which transmits the motion from the normally conductive part of the clutch to the activating shaft; and a second mechanical transmission which transmits the motion from the shaft of the electric machine to the activating shaft.
US08297137B2 Hollow plastic body which is used, in particular, to line steering wheel columns in motor vehicles
A hollow body of plastics material for placing around a motor vehicle steering column, the body including two half-bodies (2, 4) assembled to each other by tabs (22) and snap-fastener elements (24), each tab (22) including a portion in relief (28) provided with a first catch bearing surface. The snap-fastener elements (24) include a housing for each tab, the housing presenting at least one constriction, the portions in relief (28) being retained in the housings by the constrictions, the bearing surfaces of the tabs coming into contact with the complementary bearing surfaces of the constrictions on planes inclined at an angle (α) selected to enable the portions in relief (28) to go past the constrictions by elastic deformation when the two half-bodies (2, 4) are pulled apart from each other with a predetermined force.
US08297135B2 Analysis of substance mixtures
The invention relates to a method for substance mixtures, particularly complex chemical and/or biochemical substance mixtures. According to said method, a substance mixture that is to be analyzed is fed to a separating device, the substances of the substance mixture that is to be analyzed are separated from each other in the separating device by means of a chemically and/or physically induced conveying process, and the separated substances are detected in an evaluation unit. The invention further relates to methods and devices for producing pulsed substance mixtures, particularly complex chemical and/or biochemical substance mixtures. In order to improve the analysis of substance mixtures especially regarding the duration of the analysis, the throughput, and the resolution, the substance mixture that is to be analyzed is fed to the separating device in pulses having an unique binary sequence.
US08297133B2 Pressure sensor
A pressure sensor has a multiplicity of piezoelectric converter elements which are arranged such that they are essentially parallel to a force-applying or pressure-applying direction. The converter elements can be arranged at a distance from one another by an insulating material and/or are at least partially embedded in the material.A support material having greater mechanical rigidity than the converter elements, in particular in the force-applying or pressure-applying direction, is assigned to at least a number of piezoelectric converter elements, or the piezoelectric converter element is applied, in the form of a layer, to a supporting body made from this support material and is electrically contact-connected, for example, by a bottom electrode, which is arranged between the converter element layer and the supporting body, and a cover electrode which is applied to an outer side of the converter element layer.
US08297132B2 Device for recognizing a mechanical defect in a wire of an overhead line
A device for recognizing a mechanical defect in a wire of an overhead line. A device for determining the tension in the wire is connected to the wire and a support. The device is connected to an analytical device for comparing the tension with a set value and for indicating a mechanical defect when the value drops below the set value.
US08297130B2 Microtesting rig with variable compliance loading fibers for measuring mechanical properties of small specimens
The present invention provides a microtesting rig for measuring mechanical properties of small specimens. The rig includes a microsized specimen positioned on a mounting block, an interchangeable contact tip connected with an actuator and configured for contact with the microsized specimen, and a magnifying imaging system for imaging the microsized specimen. The contact tip may be a fiber platen for compression testing or a fiber grip for tension testing.
US08297127B2 Pressure sensor with low cost packaging
A pressure sensor is disclosed that may include a minimum amount of fluid coupling packaging. In one illustrative embodiment, a pressure sensor assembly may include a pressure sensor die having a front side and a back side, and a pressure sensing diaphragm. The pressure sensor assembly may further include a housing having a mounting side and a sensing side. The sensing side may define a pressure port. The pressure sensor die may be secured to the housing such that the pressure sensing diaphragm is exposed to the pressure port, and such that front side of the pressure sense die is accessible from outside of the housing.
US08297126B2 Integration of strain gauges at inner- and outer liner of a high pressure tank to indicate discharge limit point
A high pressure tank that has particular application for storing hydrogen gas on a vehicle for a fuel cell system. The tank includes a gas tight inner liner layer and a fiber bundle outer composite structural layer. A first strain gauge is provided in the outer layer and a second strain gauge is provided in the inner liner layer both proximate a transition between the layers. The strain gauges are calibrated relative to each other to identify the pressure where the inner liner layer begins to shrink and separate from the outer composite layer.
US08297124B2 Pressure sensor
A pressure sensor includes: a housing; a pressure receiver which seals an opening of the housing and transmits pressure from outside the housing to the inside of the housing; and a pressure sensing element having a pressure sensing portion and a pair of base portions which are respectively coupled to both ends of the pressure sensing portion. In the pressure sensor, a force detecting direction is set to be a detection axis, a line connecting the pair of base portions and a displacement direction of the pressure receiver are arranged in parallel, one of the base portions is coupled to a central region, which is displaced by the pressure, of the pressure receiver, and the other of the base portions is coupled to a marginal region, which is at a fixing side, of the pressure receiver through a connecting member.
US08297120B2 Angular velocity signal detection circuit and angular velocity signal detection method
An angular velocity signal detection circuit includes: a first current-voltage conversion circuit that converts, into a voltage, a current outputted from a first detection electrode of a gyroscope, and amplifies the voltage, thereby outputs a first conversion signal; a second current-voltage conversion circuit that converts, into a voltage, a current outputted from a second detection electrode of the gyroscope, and amplifies the voltage, thereby outputs a second conversion signal; an arithmetic operation unit that performs arithmetic operations by using the first conversion signal and the second conversion signal, and outputs a first processing signal and a second processing signal; and a third difference arithmetic operation circuit that amplifies a difference between the first processing signal and the second processing signal.
US08297117B2 Apparatus, method, and program for detecting decrease in tire air pressure
An apparatus includes an acceleration calculation means for calculating, based on rotation speed information obtained from a rotation speed detection means, accelerations of the respective tires; an acceleration variation calculation means for calculating acceleration variations of the tires; a comparison means for comparing the acceleration variations; a presumption means for presuming a pressure decrease of a tire; an examination means for identifying, based on the tire rotation speed information, a tire having a rotation speed that is higher than the rotation speeds of the other tires or that is lower than a predetermined criterion; and a determination means for determining, when a tire identified by the presumption means is identical with a tire identified by the examination means, a pressure decrease of the tire.
US08297110B2 Fluid probe
A device for measuring the properties of a fluid, a method of manufacture, and a method of operation is described. The device includes a body region, a first flexible element and a second flexible element. Each flexible element has a first end and a second end, the first end being fixedly located on the body region. Each flexible element is moveable from at least a first respective configuration to a second respective configuration via bending of the element. The first flexible element includes an actuating portion arranged to move the flexible element between the first configuration and the second configuration. The second flexible element includes an integral movement sensor for sensing movement of the flexible element. The first flexible element is coupled to the second flexible element at a position distant from the body region. Only the actuating portion of the first flexible element is operable to move the first and second flexible elements.
US08297108B2 Mesh leak detection system for a medical device
The present invention provides a surgical device including an elongate body defining a fluid flow path therethrough. An expandable element may be coupled to the elongate body and placed in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. Moreover, the surgical device may include a first leak detection element at least partially surrounding a portion of the expandable element, and a second leak detection element may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. In addition, a console may be provided, where the console may be in communication with the first and second leak detection elements. Further, a supply of cryogenic fluid as well as a vacuum source may be provided in fluid communication with the fluid flow path.
US08297106B2 Gas chromatography system and method
The invention relates to a gas chromatography system for the direct coupling of liquid chromatography and gas chromatography or for the introduction of large sample volumes, which is configured to operate selectively in a retention mode. The inventive system includes a tube (2) having a first inlet part (21), a second inlet part (22) and a retention part (3) between said two inlet parts. The system also includes two gas delivery subsystems (6, 7) and a sample introduction conduit (101) which is connected to the first inlet part (21). The system further includes a discharge conduit (9) and a gas chromatography column (300), both of which are connected to the second inlet part (22). The invention also relates to a gas chromatography method.
US08297103B2 Method and apparatus for measurement and/or calibration of position of an object in space
The invention concerns a method of and apparatus for measurement and/or calibration of the position of an object in space in such embodiment where the apparatus contains at least one moving arm fitted to the frame on one end and on the other end fitted to a platform, where the platform can be attached to the object to be measured or calibrated; during the motion of the object with the platform attached the relative positions of individual members of at least one moving arm, frame and platform are read and the measured data is used for determination of the position of the object or for its calibration. Upon attaching the platform of the measurement and/or calibration apparatus to the measured or calibrated object, these joined parts perform an arbitrary motion within object's operating space actuated by the drives of the object, while the quantities corresponding to relative positions of individual members of the apparatus are collected and used for determination or calibration of position of the object in space. The number of measured quantities during the motion of the platform with the measured or calibrated object is higher than the number of degrees of freedom of the apparatus by at least one.
US08297102B1 Apparatus and method for testing sensors
A system, apparatus, and method for testing a pressure-based sensor within a test chamber that can include a lock mechanism that is separate from the pressure release mechanism.
US08297101B2 Apparatus and method for forming wire loops for a dynamoelectric machine
An apparatus and method for forming at least one end turn and one slot segment of a coil for a stator of a dynamoelectric machine includes the utilization of a plurality of forming dies. Each forming die includes two lateral surfaces extending from a base and an end turn surface disposed substantially between and connecting the two lateral surfaces. Each forming die is disposed and pivotable into an arrangement where at least one lateral surface of a first forming die is substantially adjacent and parallel to at least one lateral surface of a second forming die, a slot segment thereby formable between lateral surfaces of adjacent forming dies and an end turn is at least partially formable between an end turn surface and a base of adjacent forming dies.
US08297100B2 Method and apparatus for making metallic casing
An exemplary apparatus for making metallic casing, the apparatus includes a first mold and a second mold, the first mold is opposite and movable relative to the second mold, the first mold defines a rectangular depression opposite to the second mold. The rectangular depression forms a plurality of side surfaces interconnecting to each other. Each side surface has a sharp edge. The second mold includes a plurality of cutting edges corresponding to the sharp edges respectively, one of the cutting edges has a secondary-cutting edge.
US08297099B2 Method and apparatus for roller lubrication
The roll gap in a rolling stand for rolled strips is lubricated by feeding water via at least a first feed line and oil via at least a second feed line to at least one mixer, mixing the water and the oil in the mixer, feeding the mixture of water and oil to a sprayer, and spraying the mixture from the sprayer onto at least one work roll or backup roll of the rolling stand. To clean the roll gap hot water or steam is fed via at least one third feed line to one of the first and second feed lines or to the mixer at defined time intervals or as a function of a status of the rolling process while a roll of the rolling stand is being changed.
US08297097B2 Closing method and closing machine
A closing machine includes left and right chuck spindles (20) for driving a work piece (9) to rotate, a chuck spindle moving device (30) which moves the respective chuck spindles (20) in a horizontal direction orthogonal to a rotary axis O20 thereof, and left and right slide stoppers (34) for restricting the movement of the chuck spindles (20). The work piece (9) is introduced into each chuck spindle (20), and the chuck spindle moving device (30) moves the respective chuck spindles (20) until the movement of the respective chuck spindles (20) is stopped by the respective slide stoppers (34). During a closing operation, the rotary axis O20 of the chuck spindle (20) and a rotary axis O4 of a die (4) are offset in the horizontal direction by an offset S.
US08297096B2 Method for hydroforming and hydroformed product
The object is to raise the yield by greatly eliminating the disposed amounts of the tube ends, prevent wrinkles due to closing the mold while applying internal pressure, cutting the plurality of steps of hydroforming and pre-processing of the tube ends, cutting the mold costs by simplifying the mold mechanism, and obtaining a hydroformed product formed with a flange along its entire length.For this reason, the present invention provides a hydroforming method which places a metal tube to a lower mold in the state with the tube ends sticking out from it and injects a pressurizing fluid into the metal tube through the inside of a seal punch and gradually presses seal punches against tube ends of the metal tube to apply a predetermined pressing force and fill the inside of the metal tube with the pressurizing fluid to apply a predetermined internal pressure, next, in the state with the internal pressure and pressing force applied, lowers the upper mold and closes the mold so as to deform the tube and end the processing in the state with the tube ends sticking out from the mold, and, further, boosting the internal pressure in the metal tube after closing the mold and ending the forming operation and a hydroformed product processed using these methods and having a flange across the entire length in the longitudinal direction.
US08297093B2 Tip tool guide apparatus
A tip tool guide apparatus 1 includes a swivel supporting unit 20 that is supported in a water chamber 100 of a steam generator by being stretched while pressing a stationary structural member provided in the water chamber 100 and that swivels around a pivot TL, a tip tool that is connected to the swivel supporting unit 20 with a slide table 30, i.e., a movable member, and a manipulator mounted on the slide table 30 interposed therebetween and that performs processing on a surface to be processed, and a pressing member 10A that reinforces the swivel supporting unit so as to withstand the force applied to the swivel supporting unit 20 in the swiveling direction of the swivel supporting unit 20, and that is provided in the water chamber 100.
US08297092B2 Reflection member for shot peening and shot peening method having the same
The reflection portion of the reflection member is moved along the inner surface in the hole of the pipe from the entrance opening of the hole of the pipe to the exit opening of the hole thereof. In this case, the reflection portion is guided by the guide portion provided at both sides of the reflection portion. The shots, which are projected toward the inner surface in the hole of the pipe, reach the reflection portion through the holes of the guide portion of the entrance side, and they are reflected toward the inner surface in the hole of the pipe. Since the shots can be reflected toward the inner surface inside in the hole of the pipe, the tendency that shots may be moved toward the inner surface outside in the hole of the curved portion can be small.
US08297090B2 Theft prevention device
A theft prevention device includes a base having body with a pair of side walls; a base protrusion protruding from an edge of the body, the base protrusion having a base protrusion opening; and a fastener opening configured to receive a fastener for coupling the base to an external device; and a sleeve adapted to mate with the base, the sleeve having a bottom wall; a pair of side walls extending from the bottom wall; an end wall extending from the bottom wall and between the side walls, the end wall having an end wall slot adapted to receive the base protrusion; and a sleeve protrusion protruding from an edge of the sleeve and having a sleeve protrusion opening configured to be substantially aligned with the base protrusion opening when the base protrusion is inserted through the end wall slot.
US08297084B2 Drum washing machine
A drum washing machine is provided. The drum washing machine includes a tub that stores wash water therein, a drum rotatably mounted within the tub, a motor mounted in a rear of the tub, the motor having a shaft to rotate the drum, a bearing housing inserted into the tub having a hollow portion, which allows the shaft of the motor to pass therethrough, formed in a center thereof, a bearing secured to the hollow of the bearing housing, and an outlet hole that discharges gas or moisture generated in the bearing and a portion adjacent to the bearing outside of the bearing housing. The drum washing machine so constructed has enhanced durability, because it includes the outlet hole provided in the bearing housing where the shaft rotates that prevents moisture or water from remaining in the bearing housing.
US08297083B2 Washing machine having ball balancers
Disclosed is a washing machine having ball balancers, which adjust a relation between a gap, between the inner wall of a racer of each of the ball balancers and balls, and viscous oil, so as to reduce the vibration and noise of the washing machine. Each of the ball balancers of the washing machine includes balls and viscous oil accommodated in a racer, and the viscosity of the viscous oil is varied in proportion to a gap between the racer and the balls. When the viscosity of the viscous oil is 1˜100 cSt, the gap is set to 0.5˜1.0 mm, when the viscosity of the viscous oil is 100˜380 cSt, the gap is set to 1.0˜2.0 mm, and when the viscosity of the viscous oil is 380˜1,000 cSt, the gap is set to 2.0˜3.0 mm. Thereby, the relation between the gap and the viscous oil is optimized, and the ball balancers effectively exhibit a balancing function and thus minimize the vibration and noise of the washing machine.
US08297082B2 Laundry machine
A laundry machine includes a first laundry treatment space configured to receive laundry therein, a second laundry treatment space configured to receive laundry therein and an air supply unit configured to supply air to the second laundry treatment space, the air supply unit comprising a fan, a heater and a housing, and wherein the housing accommodates the fan, the heater, an inlet and an outlet.
US08297079B2 Method of manufacturing porous glass base material used for optical fibers, and glass base material
The method of manufacturing porous glass base material for optical fiber includes that flame-hydrolyzing raw materials for glass in oxyhydrogen flame, depositing the generated glass fine particles on a rotating target to form porous glass base material, dehydrating and sintering the porous glass base material to transform into clear glass. The method features, in terms of the surface temperature of said porous glass base material, which changes as the burner used for depositing glass fine particle is moved relatively to said target, the temperature difference between the surface temperature of the porous glass base material touching the burner flame Ta and the surface temperature of the porous glass base material before touching the flame Tb, that is Ta−Tb, is adjusted to be within the range from 200 to 700 degrees centigrade.
US08297070B2 Race car cooler
A portable, self-contained race car cooler comprises an enclosure divided interiorly by vented baffles into separate cooling and fan compartments. A removable top covers the enclosure. Air is drawn through the enclosure and between adjacent cooling compartments by an electric fan. A plurality of removable canisters, frictionally fitted through orifices in the top, store “dry ice” for cooling. Each canister is peripherally restrained by a plurality of radially spaced-apart J-hooks emanating from the top that are biased inwardly by an elastic band. The J-hooks peripherally grasp the canisters and provide a detent for snappingly engaging or releasing the canisters. A heat-exchange standoff is secured beneath each canister upon the enclosure floor and comprises a plurality of spaced-apart, parallel rails with air passageways defined between them. Cooler lids removably coupled to the canisters are externally serviceable. Carbon dioxide venting is provided.
US08297062B2 Heat-dissipating device for supplying cold airflow
A heat-dissipating device (1) including a casing (10), a thermal insulation plate (20), a thermoelectric cooling chip (30), a heat-dissipating body (40), super heat pipes (52), a cooler (53), a first fan (54) and a second fan (60). The thermal insulation plate (20) divides the interior of the casing (10) into a hot air zone (ZH) and a cold air zone (ZC). The thermoelectric cooling chip (30) is disposed on the thermal insulation plate (20) with its hot-end surface (32) facing the hot air zone (ZH). The heat-dissipating body (40) is disposed in the hot air zone (ZH) to contact the hot-end surface (32). The super heat pipes (52) and the cooler (53) thermally contact a cold-end surface (31) of the thermoelectric cooling chip (30). Thus, the cold generated by the cold-end surface (31) can be rapidly and uniformly conducted to other places to form a cold airflow.
US08297060B2 Apparatus, system and method for observing combustion conditions in a gas turbine engine
A method of stabilizing combustion in a gas turbine engine includes the steps of observing a combustor flame from a location upstream from said flame to detect spectral characteristics indicative of a condition affecting combustion stability, and tuning the engine to stabilize combustion based upon an indicated condition affecting combustion stability.
US08297059B2 Nozzle for a turbomachine
A turbomachine includes a compressor, a combustor operatively connected to the compressor, and an injection nozzle operatively connected to the combustor. The injection nozzle includes a main body having a first end section that extends to a second end section to define an inner flow path. The injection nozzle further includes an outlet arranged at the second end section of the main body, at least one passage that extends within the main body and is fluidly connected to the outlet, and at least one conduit extending between the inner flow path and the at least one passage.
US08297057B2 Fuel injector
A fuel injector head for a gas turbine engine the head having a pilot injector and a main injector located radially outwardly of the pilot injector. A concentric splitter separates the pilot injector from the main injector and has a toroid chamber which is supplied with air in use to generate a toroidal flow which delays mixing of the pilot and main air flows.
US08297052B2 Hydraulic electricity generator
A hydraulic electricity generator has a drive device, a hydro-generator and a recovering tank. The drive device has at least one compressing unit, and each compressing unit has a storage tube and a compressor. The storage tube has a chamber, an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe and a nozzle. The pipes are connected to the storage tube. The compressor is connected to the storage tube. The hydro-generator is connected to the at least one compressing unit and has a casing, a hydraulic turbine, a windmill and a draining pipe. The hydraulic turbine is rotatably mounted in the casing and has a spindle and multiple blades. The spindle has an outer end extended out of the casing. The windmill is mounted on the outer end of the spindle. The recovering tank is connected to the draining pipe of the hydro-generator and the inlet pipe of the drive device.
US08297051B2 Hydrodynamic machine and method for minimizing the drag power of such a machine
The invention relates to a hydrodynamic machine, in particular a retarder, having an external working medium circuit, comprising: a bladed primary wheel and a bladed secondary wheel which together form a toroidal working chamber which can be filled with working medium from the external working medium circuit, which is fed back into the external working medium circuit; an annular channel disposed outside the working chamber, which is connected in a working-medium conducting manner to the working chamber via outlet holes in the primary wheel or secondary wheel, and is in flow-conducting communication with the external working medium circuit in order to collect working medium leaving the working chamber through the outlet holes and supply this to the external working medium circuit. The invention is characterized by the following features: having at least one tapping opening disposed on or outside the working chamber which is in flow-conducting communication with the working chamber of the hydrodynamic machine and at least one filling channel which opens into a region of relatively low working medium pressure inside the hydrodynamic machine and which is in flow-conducting communication with the working chamber; wherein the at least one tapping opening and the filling channel are interconnected in a working-medium conducting manner by means of a return line outside the external working medium circuit in such a manner that working medium flows from the at least one tapping opening into the filling channel and from there back into the working chamber.
US08297045B2 Exhaust gas treating apparatus and treating method
An exhaust gas treating apparatus includes an adsorption tower (20) that has an adsorption layer filled with an adsorbent and a heat transfer path through which heat is transferred to the adsorption layer. The apparatus performs switching among the following processes: an adsorption process of introducing an exhaust gas from an engine (10) into the adsorption layer of the adsorption tower so that target components to be treated, including NOX, in the exhaust gas are adsorbed by the adsorbent; a desorption process of introducing the exhaust gas into the heat transfer path of the adsorption tower to heat the adsorption layer and introducing a desorption gas into the heated adsorption layer so that the target components are desorbed from the adsorbent, and a cooling process of introducing a cooling gas into the adsorption layer of the adsorption tower to cool the adsorption layer and introducing the cooling gas that has passed through the adsorption layer into an inlet of the engine. Thus, the apparatus can treat the exhaust gas with a small amount of energy consumption and without performing a wet treatment.
US08297044B2 Exhaust purification device of an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, a pair of NOx storing catalysts are arranged in series in an engine exhaust passage. When causing the upstream NOx storing catalyst to release NOx and store the released NOx in the downstream NOx storing catalyst, the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas is temporarily reduced in a state where the exhaust gas is maintained at a lean air-fuel ratio. As opposed to this, when releasing NOx from the upstream NOx storing catalyst and the downstream NOx storing catalyst and reducing the NOx, the air-fuel ratio of the exhaust gas is temporarily switched from lean to rich.
US08297042B2 Exhaust purification device of internal combustion engine
In an exhaust purification system of an internal combustion engine comprising an exhaust purification device which receives a bad influence from SOX in the exhaust gas and a S trap device arranged upstream of the exhaust purification device, which can store SOX in the exhaust gas, an amount of SOX passing through the S trap device is integrated as an integrated value, each allowance value of the integrated value for each elapsed period from the start time of the use of the S trap device is set, and when the current integrated value exceeds the corresponding allowance value and between a first set period ago and the current time, fuel has been supplied into the fuel tank and engine oil has not been exchanged, it is determined that fuel with a high concentration of sulfur has been supplied into the fuel tank.
US08297040B2 Diagnostic method and device for operating an internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine has an exhaust gas catalyst, a first exhaust gas sensor that is arranged in such a manner that it can be used in lambda control, and a second exhaust gas sensor that is arranged in such a manner that it can be used in trim control. A HC quality value (EFF_CAT_HC) which is representative of an oxygen storage capacity of the exhaust gas catalyst is determined depending on a measuring signal (VLS_DOWN) of the second exhaust gas sensor. A NOx correction factor (COR_NOX) is determined depending on the measuring signal (VLS_DOWN) of the second exhaust gas sensor, namely depending on signal portions that are representative of the residual oxygen. A NOx quality value (EFF_CAT_DIAL_NOX) is determined depending on the HC quality value (EFF_CAT_HC) and the NOx correction factor (COR_NOX).
US08297037B2 Gas turbine and method of forming combustor insertion hole of gas turbine
A gas turbine includes a combustor, a combustor casing formed in a cylindrical shape to house the combustor therein, and a combustor insertion hole, which is a hole formed on a side periphery of the combustor casing, where a size thereof in a direction orthogonal to a circumferential direction of the combustor casing is formed larger than that in the circumferential direction of the combustor casing, and when the combustor inserted into the hole, a member moved together with the combustor, and the hole are viewed from a moving direction of the combustor, the hole includes an entire external form of the combustor and the member moved together with the combustor.
US08297035B2 Normal pressure cationic dyeable polyester and fiber
It is a problem of the present invention to provide a normal pressure cationic dyeable polyester being cationic dyeable under normal pressure, and having high strength. The problem can be solved by a normal pressure cationic dyeable polyester, characterized by being a copolymerized polyester having a main repeating unit including ethylene terephthalate, and including, in an acid component forming the copolymerized polyester, a metal salt of sulfoisophthalic acid (A) and a compound (B) which is a phosphonium salt of sulfoisophthalic acid or the like in such a state as to simultaneously satisfy the two mathematical expressions. Preferably, the glass transition temperature of the copolymerized polyester is within the range of 70 to 85° C., and the intrinsic viscosity of the copolymerized polyester is within the range of 0.55 to 1.00 dL/g. Further, by melt spinning the copolymerized polyester, it is possible to provide a polyester fiber.
US08297034B1 Rolling leaf removal device
A hand-operated, rolling leaf-rake that is rolled over leaves or other debris to collect the leaves or debris for disposal. It employs rolling drums with retractable spikes that puncture and collect leaves or debris as the tool is pushed along the ground. The drums are comprised of an inner assembly covered with spikes that rise and protrude through holes in the outer drum as it is rolled, and alternately retract through the holes and drop back down to rest again on the inner cylinder. As the spikes retract, the leaves/debris are left deposited on the ground and can be removed. The spikes are under control of a lock mechanism.
US08297032B2 Walk-behind lawnmower
A walk-behind lawnmower is provided with a height-adjusting mechanism for adjusting the height of a housing above the ground. The walk-behind lawnmower further comprises an operating button for switching an adjustment operation of the height-adjusting mechanism from a restricted state to a permissive state; and a height-adjusting grip capable of being grasped by a hand so as to raise or lower the housing when the operating button is operated, and the adjustment operation of the height-adjusting mechanism is thereby permitted. The height-adjusting grip is provided to the housing in the vicinity of a left or right lateral part. The operating button is positioned in an area allowing operation by a finger of the hand grasping the height-adjusting grip.
US08297030B2 Methods for manufacturing packaged systems for implanting markers in a patient
Packaged systems for implanting a marker in a patient and methods for manufacturing and using such systems. In one embodiment, a packaged system comprises an introducer having a cannula and a stylet configured to be received in the cannula, a marker in the cannula, and a package having a sterile compartment. The marker can have a casing configured to be implanted in a patient and a resonating circuit in the casing. The resonating circuit can comprise a coil configured to wirelessly transmit a target signal in response to a wirelessly transmitted excitation signal. The introducer is contained within the sterile compartment. In another embodiment, the marker is not loaded in the introducer within the compartment of the package.
US08297026B1 Construction system and method having integrated plank and framing members
A system and method of manufacturing synthetic construction elements that replaces lumber. A synthetic composition is provided containing cementitious material, synthetic fibers, and low-density particulate material. At least one polymer may be added to improve performance. The density of the synthetic composition is controlled by varying the volume of the low-density particulate material in the mix. Reinforcement elements are provided. The reinforcement elements are preferably pre-stressed or post-stressed in tension. The synthetic compound is molded around the reinforcement elements to form a construction element of a particular shape. The molding of the synthetic material around the reinforcement elements can be a two-step process. In the first step, a first synthetic compound of a high density is molded into a rough form around the reinforcement elements. A second synthetic compound of a lower density and strength is then molded around the rough form to complete the construction element.