最新美国发明专利第2012-12-04期 - 专利汇|PatentHub专利检索|专利查询网|发明专利查询分析

Document	Document Title
US08323870B2	Method and photoresist with zipper mechanism The present disclosure provides a resist utilized in a photolithography patterning process. The resist includes a polymeric material having a plurality of zipper molecules, each including a first zipper portion and a second zipper portion, wherein the first and second zipper portions each include a plurality of zipper branches bonded together in pairs and cleavable to one of thermal energy, radiation energy, and chemical reaction.
US08323868B2	Bilayer systems including a polydimethylglutarimide-based bottom layer and compositions thereof Bilayer systems include a bottom layer formed of polydimethylglutarimide, an acid labile dissolution inhibitor and a photoacid generator. The bilayer system can be exposed and developed in a single exposure and development process.
US08323867B2	Materials for lithographic plates coatings, lithographic plates and coatings containing same, methods of preparation and use This invention relates to iodonium salts, acetal copolymers and polymer binders comprising functional groups capable of undergoing cationic or radical polymerization, their method of preparation and their use in the preparation of coating solutions and coatings. This invention also relates to coatings containing the iodonium salts, acetal copolymers and/or polymer binders and to negative working lithographic printing plates comprising these coatings.
US08323858B2	Photomask blank, photomask, and methods of manufacturing the same A photomask blank has a light shieldable film formed on a light transmitting substrate. The light shieldable film has a light shielding layer which is formed of molybdenum silicide metal containing molybdenum in a content greater than 20 atomic % and not greater than 40 atomic % and which has a thickness smaller than 40 nm, an antireflection layer formed on the light shielding layer in contact with the light shielding layer and formed of a molybdenum silicide compound containing at least one of oxygen and nitrogen, and a low reflection layer formed under the light shielding layer in contact with the light shielding layer.
US08323856B2	Mask blanks The present invention provides a mask blank which comprises a substrate made of a synthetic quartz glass and a light-shielding film laminated on a surface of the substrate and is for use in a semiconductor device production technique employing an exposure light wavelength of 200 nm or shorter, wherein the mask blank has a birefringence, as measured at a wavelength of 193 nm, of 1 nm or less per substrate thickness. According to the present invention, mask blanks suitable for use in the immersion exposure technique and the polarized illumination technique are provided.
US08323849B2	Electrolyte membrane containing a crosslinked polybenzoxazine-based compound for fuel cell and fuel cell using the same A fuel cell including an electrolyte membrane and/or an electrode which includes a crosslinked polybenzoxazine-based compound formed of a polymerized product of at least one selected from a first benzoxazine-based monomer and second benzoxazine-based monomer, the first benzoxazine-based monomer and second benzoxazine-based monomer having a halogen atom or a halogen atom-containing functional group, crosslinked with a cross-linkable compound.
US08323845B2	Solid oxide electrolyte fuel cell plate structure, stack and electrical power generation unit A solid electrolyte fuel cell plate structure includes a cell element layer composed of a solid electrolyte, an air electrode layer and a fuel electrode layer, a porous base body supporting the cell element layer, and a gas-impermeable member having electric conductivity. The cell element layer is arranged such that the solid electrolyte layer is sandwiched between the air electrode layer and the fuel electrode layer, with the air electrode layer or the fuel electrode layer being joined to the porous base body. The gas-impermeable member is associated with the solid electrolyte layer to allow gas internally passing through the porous base body to be separated from gas flowing outside the porous base body. Such a cell plate structure can be employed in a solid electrolyte fuel cell stack, which in turn can be employed in a solid electrolyte fuel cell electric power generation unit.
US08323843B2	Manifold sealing and corrosion preventive interface plate for a fuel cell stack A fuel cell assembly having a terminal plate that is isolated from fluid flows passing to the fuel cell stack through manifolds is provided. A corrosion resistant member is positioned between the fuel cell stack and the terminal plate and sealingly engages with the manifold. The sealing engagement between the manifold and the corrosion resistant member prevents fluid flowing through the manifold to the fuel cell stack from contacting the terminal plate. Thus, a fuel cell assembly according to the present invention can be operated while preventing a fluid flow through the manifold from contacting the terminal plate.
US08323841B2	Anode loop observer for fuel cell systems A system and method for controlling the bleed valve in an anode recirculation loop of a fuel cell system. The system uses a model to determine the concentration of hydrogen in the recirculated gas by calculating the volume flow of the recirculated gas through a fuel cell stack, a pressure drop across the anode inlet and outlet of the stack, and the density of the recirculated gas, and using a measured temperature of the recirculated gas and a measured pressure drop across a recirculation pump.
US08323836B2	Modifier of lithium ion battery A modifier of a lithium ion battery includes a clear solution fabricated from a phosphorous source having a phosphate radical, a trivalent aluminum source, and a metallic oxide provided in a liquid phase solvent. A molar ratio of the trivalent aluminum source, the metallic oxide, and the phosphorous source is set by (MolAl+MolMetal):Molp=about 1:2.5 to about 1:4. MolAl is the amount of substance of an aluminum element in the trivalent aluminum source, MolMetal is the amount of substance of a metallic element in the metallic oxide, and Molp is the amount of substance of a phosphorous element in the phosphorous source.
US08323834B2	Electric storage element Disclosed is an electrical storage device having excellent safety and high battery capacity. Specifically disclosed is an electrical storage device comprising at least a positive electrode having a positive electrode active material layer and a positive electrode collector, a negative electrode having a negative electrode active material layer and a negative electrode collector, a separator and an organic electrolyte solution. This electrical storage device is characterized in that the negative electrode active material layer is composed of a metal complex oxide which absorbs and desorbs lithium ions, the positive electrode active material layer contains a carbonaceous material having a layered crystal structure, and the interlayer distance d002 of the layered crystal structure in the carbonaceous material is within the range of 0.36-0.38 nm.
US08323823B2	Battery pack with drawer portion A battery pack is provided that includes a plurality of batteries, a connection substrate being connected to the plurality of batteries, a circuit substrate for connecting an external electronic device, and a connection member for connecting the connection substrate and the circuit substrate. Each battery has a drawer portion for leading out a cathode terminal and an anode terminal provided at a same side of the battery. The drawer portion has wall portions standing against the drawer portion so that the side portions of the drawer portion are opposed each other. The plurality of batteries are arranged in row so that the drawer portion of the plurality of batteries face to a same direction. A part of the connection substrate is disposed on the drawer portion of the battery. The rim of the connection substrate is provided with cutouts to let the wall portions disposed therein.
US08323817B2	Alkali metal seawater battery A galvanic cell is disclosed. Generally, the cell includes an alkali metal anode, which electrochemcially oxidizes to release alkali metal ions, and a cathode, which is configured to be exposed to an electrolyte solution. A water-impermeable, alkali-ion-conductive ceramic membrane separates the anode from the cathode. Moreover, an alkali-ion-permeable anode current collector is placed in electrical communication with the anode. In some cases, to keep the anode in contact with the current collector as the cell functions and as the anode is depleted, the cell includes a biasing member that urges the anode against the current collector. To produce electricity, the galvanic cell is exposed to an aqueous electrolyte solution, such as seawater, brine, saltwater, etc.
US08323815B2	Optimized microporous structure of electrochemical cells An optimized electrochemical cell comprised of a housing divided into two chambers, a first chamber containing a protogenous, ion-conducting liquid and a positive high density electrode including a first active material and a porous binder, surrounded by a surface in which the porosity level increases towards the surface, a second chamber containing an aprotic, ion conducting liquid and a negative high density electrode including a second active material and a porous binder, surrounded by a surface in which the porosity level increases towards the surface. A symmetric, strong, highly porous, microporous polymer membrane divides the housing into the first and second chamber. The porosity level of the polymer membrane is 25% greater than the porosity level at the surface of the positive and negative high density electrodes.
US08323812B2	Battery pack, battery-mounted device and connection structure for battery pack It is aimed to provide a battery pack capable of securing safety by preventing A battery contained in the battery pack from entering a burning state even if the battery releases high-temperature gas in an abnormal state. An exhaust duct 1C for permitting the flow of gas released from the battery is provided and the gas is exhausted to the outside after reducing the temperature thereof in the exhaust duct 1C. A flow passage area of the exhaust duct 1C is in the range of not less than 0.5 mm2 and not more than 15 mm2 per 1 Ah of the battery capacity. The exhaust duct 1C is provided with a gas cooling portion 1L and a spark trapping portion 1M.
US08323809B2	Fuel cell electrolyte membrane with basic polymer The present invention is an electrolyte membrane comprising an acid and a basic polymer, where the acid is a low-volatile acid that is fluorinated and is either oligomeric or non-polymeric, and where the basic polymer is protonated by the acid and is stable to hydrolysis.
US08323808B2	Perpendicular magnetic recording medium There is provided a perpendicular magnetic recording medium according to which both the thermal stability of the magnetization is good and writing with a magnetic head is easy, and moreover the SNR is improved. In the case of a perpendicular magnetic recording medium comprising a nonmagnetic substrate 1, and at least a nonmagnetic underlayer 2, a magnetic recording layer 3 and a protective layer 4 formed in this order on the nonmagnetic substrate 1, the magnetic recording layer 3 comprises a low Ku region 31 layer having a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy constant (Ku value) of not more than 1×105 erg/cm3, and a high Ku region 32 layer having a Ku value of at least 1×106 erg/cm3. Moreover, the magnetic recording layer 3 is made to have therein nonmagnetic grain boundaries that contain a nonmagnetic oxide and magnetically isolate crystal grains, which are made of a ferromagnetic metal, from one another.
US08323807B2	Process for producing alumina coating composed mainly of α-type crystal structure The present invention provides a process for producing an alumina coating comprised mainly of α crystal structure on a base material.
US08323803B2	Imaging member An imaging member is disclosed having a surface layer comprising a heat-sensitive material whose surface compatibility to printing agents, such as toners and inks, can be substantially reversed in response to small changes in temperature. The imaging member is suitable for use in lithographic and printing applications, permitting reversible switching between compatibility states of printing agents, such as between hydrophilic and hydrophobic states or oleophilic and oleophobic states, and enabling rapid production of images on a recording medium. The heat-sensitive material comprises an acrylamide polymer and a silicon material.
US08323802B2	Light activatable polyimide compositions for receiving selective metalization, and methods and compositions related thereto The present invention relates generally to polyimide composites having dispersed in the polyimide base matrix, useful spinel crystal fillers wherein the composite has a visible-to-infrared light extinction coefficient between and including 0.05 and 0.60 microns−1. The composite polyimides formed therefrom are typically used to make circuits having fine electrically conductive pathways adjacent to the polyimide substrate. These fine electrically conductive pathways are typically formed on the substrate using an electro-less metal plating step. First, the surface of the polyimide composite is light activated, typically by using a laser beam, then the light activated portions are plated to form thin lines, or pathways, on the film's surface.
US08323795B2	Easy-to-suspend hydrophobing agents The invention relates to solids powders comprising particles having an average particle size of 0.1 to 50 μm with predominantly a core-shell structure, wherein the core comprises at least one water-insoluble fatty acid salt and the shell at least one anionic, cationic or non-ionic emulsifier, and the solids powder when introduced into water or at least one polar organic solvent or a mixture comprising water and at least one polar organic solvent, at a temperature of 23° C. while exposed to a mechanical force, forms a complete dispersion within 60 minutes or less.
US08323794B2	Injectable hydrogel microspheres from aqueous two-phase system Injectable hydrogel microspheres are prepared by forming an emulsion where hydrogel precursors are in a disperse aqueous phase and polymerizing the hydrogel precursors. In a preferred case, the hydrogel precursors are poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate and N-isopropylacrylamide and the continuous phase of the emulsion is an aqueous solution of dextran and a dextran solubility reducer. The microspheres will load protein, e.g., cytokines, from aqueous solution.
US08323792B2	Spherical corundum particles, based on fused aluminum oxide and a method for producing said particles A method is provided for manufacturing spherical corundum grains having a bulk density between 1.5 kg/L and 2.5 kg/L, with aluminum oxide being melted in an electric arc furnace with the addition of 0.1 to 1% quartz sand, the melt being poured in a pouring quantity of less than 100 kg/min, and the pouring stream being blown using compressed air at a pressure between 3 to 10 bar.
US08323791B2	Polyamide filament and industrial fabric using the polyamide filament A polyamide filament is disclosed. The filament includes a polyamide resin. The resin is obtained from mixing crystalline polyamide (A) with another polyamide (B). Crystalline polyamide (A) is obtained by a polycondensation reaction of metaxylenediamine and adipic acid. Crystalline polyamide (A) comprises from 5 to 50 wt. % of the resin. Polyamide (B) comprises from 50 to 95 wt. % of the resin. The filament is heated to 160 to 200° C. under a constant length condition at an initial load of 20 mg/d. After heating, a thermal contraction stress of the filament is not reduced in a cool-down region not greater than 80° C.
US08323790B2	Bimodal and multimodal dense boride cermets with low melting point binder Multimodal cermet compositions having lower melting point metal binders and methods of making are provided. The multimodal cermet compositions having a low melting point metal binder include: a) a ceramic phase, and b) a low melting point metal binder phase, wherein the ceramic phase is a metal boride with a multimodal distribution of particles, wherein the metal of the metal boride is chosen from Group IV, Group V, Group VI elements of the Long Form of the Periodic Table of Elements, and mixtures thereof, and wherein the low melting metal binder phase is represented by the formula (DEF), wherein D is a base metal chosen from Fe, Ni, Co, Mn and mixtures thereof, E is an alloying metal comprising Cr, Si, and B, and F is an alloying element chosen from C, N, P, Al, Ga, Ge, As, In, Sn, Sb, Pb, Sc, La, Y, Ce, Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Mo, W, Re, Ru, Rh, Ir, Pd, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au and mixtures thereof, and wherein said low melting metal binder phase has a melting point less than 1250° C. The multimodal cermet compositions having a low melting point metal binder may be formed by a powder metallurgy process or an infiltration process. One or more advantages of the multimodal cermets with low melting point binder are high packing density of the ceramic phase, high fracture toughness, and improved erosion resistance at high temperatures up to 1000° C. The multimodal cermets with low melting point binder are suitable in high temperature erosion/corrosion applications in various chemical and petroleum environments.
US08323789B2	Nanomaterial polymer compositions and uses thereof The present invention is directed to compositions (“Nanomaterial Polymer Compositions”) comprising a silicone polymer and a nanomaterial, including but not limited to, a single or multi-walled nanotube, a nanowire, a nanodot, a quantum dot, a nanorod, a nanocrystal, a nanotetrapod, a nanotripod, a nanobipod, a nanoparticle, a nanosaw, a nanospring, a nanoribbon, a branched nanomaterial, or any combination thereof. The Nanomaterial Polymer Compositions are useful for optical and sensing devices including but not limited to noise suppression, passive Q-switching, mode-locking, waveform shaping, optical switching, optical signal regeneration, phase conjugation or filter devices, dispersion compensation, wavelength conversion, a soliton stabilization, microcavity applications, interferometers; optical, magneto-optical or electro-optical modulation; and biochemical sensors and photodetectors. The Nanomaterial Polymer Compositions are also useful in soft lithography processes.
US08323788B2	Highly flexible sheet composite material The invention relates to a highly flexible sheet composite material comprising a block flexible foam and a layer of whipped foam made of polyurethane-based dispersions two-dimensionally bonded thereto, a process for preparing such a composite material, and the use thereof.
US08323785B2	Lightweight, reduced density fire rated gypsum panels A reduced weight, reduced density gypsum panel that includes high expansion vermiculite with fire resistance capabilities that are at least comparable to (if not better than) commercial fire rated gypsum panels with a much greater gypsum content, weight and density.
US08323779B2	Cleaning cards A cleaning card for use in cleaning internal surfaces of a machine-reading mechanism includes a substrate having plurality of discrete raised areas in opposed surfaces thereof. The discrete raised areas each include a peak and a peripheral wall having an edge remote from the peak, and the peak of each raised area is farther from a central plane of the card than the edge of the peripheral wall remote from the peak. Relief means are provided in the substrate for preventing the peaks of at least some of the discrete raised areas from flattening toward the central plane to an extent that such peaks will not effectively engage and clean desired internal surfaces of a machine-reading mechanism when the cleaning card moves in the machine direction in other than a single, substantially linear plane.
US08323775B2	Turbulence foil The disclosure relates to a layer (1) for reducing air resistance of a forward-moving object, which layer comprises a pattern of surfaces (2) rising in a first direction R, and—channels (3) running between the surfaces in a second direction at an angle to the first direction. A flow is brought about on a micro-scale in the channels which damps the occurrence of turbulence in the main flow over the surface, thereby reducing air resistance.
US08323774B2	Apparatus for inflating and sealing pillows in packaging cushions A machine which inflates and seals pillows in packaging is compact in overall size, can be conveniently operated to produce varied lengths of strips of inflated pillow-type packaging as needed, can begin production of inflated pillow-type strip packaging immediately after being held out of a production cycle for some period of time, and applies a heated sealing element directly to and in sliding contact with a web of film to securely seal the inlet port of an inflated pillow while the pillow is under pressure and as the web of film is continuously and uninterruptedly advanced through the machine.
US08323773B2	Laminates with structured layers An article including at least one first layer with a first major surface and a second major surface, wherein at least one of the first and second major surfaces is a structured surface; and a cap layer in contact with a structured surface of the first layer.
US08323772B2	Photon-alignment optical film A photon-alignment optical film includes a film substrate on which at least one layer of core/shell nanoparticles is coated. The core/shell nanoparticle layer includes a plastic substance, which is photo curable or heat curable, and a plurality of core/shell nanoparticles, which is uniformly distributed in the plastic substance. Light energy is used as a driving force to induce electrical potential of the same polarity on the surfaces of the core/shell nanoparticles to make the core/shell nanoparticles rearranged in the form of a matrix due to repulsion induced between like electrical polarity. Spacing between the particles, which is relatively constant, allows light to pass therethrough. The plastic substance is cured by light or heat to have the core/shell nanoparticles set in position to thereby form the optical film. Such an optical film features both diffusion and brightness enhancement.
US08323770B2	Breathable non-asphaltic roofing underlayment having tailorable breathability A building materials composite is provided, having a first perforated coated scrim, a second perforated coated scrim, and a breathable thermoplastic film bonded to and sandwiched between the first and the second perforated coated scrims. Further, a method of manufacturing a building materials composite is provided, the method having the steps of coating a fabric, perforating the coated fabric to make a perforated coated scrim, bonding one side of the perforated coated scrim to one side of a breathable thermoplastic film, and bonding a non-woven fabric to a second side of the breathable thermoplastic film.
US08323764B2	Methods to produce stretchable products The invention provides methods for producing flexible, stretchable, and/or elastic products comprised principally of material such as natural elastomers and other synthetic polymers. The method for producing stretchable products by spraying product material over a workpiece former, and method for creating perforated products by spraying product material over fibers in an upright position. The invention provides methods for making double sided fiber coating of the product and, or to at least coating the product surface on the side facing the wall without the need for removing the product from the wall.
US08323759B2	Lighter than air balloon made from a biaxially oriented polyester film A long life balloon formed from a lamination. The lamination includes a polyester film with a total thickness of 4 μm to 12 μm. The polyester film includes a biaxially oriented polyester core layer and at least one amorphous copolyester skin layer. The lamination also includes a sealant layer and a gas barrier layer on an opposite side of the polyester film from the sealant layer. The oxygen transmission rate of the balloon is less than 0.1 cc/100 sqin/day, a bonding strength of the gas barrier layer to the surface of the polyester film is more than 300 g/in at dry conditions, a sealing strength of the balloon is more than 3.5 kg/in, and a floating time of the balloon is more than 20 days.
US08323757B2	Artificial Christmas tree and antler apparatus An artificial Christmas tree with an array of imitation animal antlers incorporated into the tree to serve as additional branches. The purpose of the incorporated animal antler branches is to provide structural support to the tree so that the device can hold a multitude of Christmas ornaments. The antlers serve as strong branches and can support the weight of several heavy Christmas ornaments at once on each animal antler branch, while providing an ornamental and novel looking tree device for supporting hanging articles and Christmas decoration. Each antler has plurality of elongated prongs, allowing a user to place many ornaments on a single antler without resulting in deflection thereof. The antlers strength keeps the branches from drooping under the weight of the decorations, which leaves the Christmas tree aesthetically pleasing to the eye and particularly attractive for animal hunters and enthusiasts.
US08323752B2	Carbon-based thin film, and process for producing the same, and member using the thin film The present invention provides a novel carbon-based material in which carbons different in property are combined in such a manner as to be applicable to a device. The carbon-based thin film provides a carbon-based thin film 10 including first phases 1 that contain amorphous carbon and extend in a film thickness direction, and a second phase 2 that contains a graphite structure and intervenes between the first phases 1. In the thin film, at least one selected from the group consisting of the following a) to e) is satisfied: a) the second phase contains more graphite structures per unit volume than the first phases; b) a density of the second phase is larger than that of the first phases; c) an electric resistivity of the second phase is lower than that of the first phases; d) an elastic modulus of the second phase is higher than that of the first phases; and e) in the second phase, a basal plane of the graphite structure is oriented along the film thickness direction.
US08323738B2	Coated cutting tool and method for producing the same Provided are a coated cutting tool having excellent wear resistance and excellent resistance to chipping as well as excellent fracture resistance such that the coated cutting tool is unlikely to cause backward movement of the tool edge position due to wear or chipping, and a method for producing the same.A coated cutting tool comprising a base material having a surface coated with a coating film, wherein the coating film comprises at least one layer comprised of a TiCN columnar crystal film, wherein the TiCN columnar crystal film has an average grain size of 0.05 to 0.5 μm, as measured in the direction parallel to the surface of the base material, and exhibits an X-ray diffraction pattern having a peak at a diffraction angle 2θ in the range of from 121.5 to 122.6° wherein the peak is ascribed to the (422) crystal facet of the TiCN columnar crystal as measured using CuKα radiation.
US08323736B2	Methods of forming metal-containing structures, and methods of forming germanium-containing structures Some embodiments include methods of forming metal-containing structures. A first metal-containing material may be formed over a substrate. After the first metal-containing material is formed, and while the substrate is within a reaction chamber, hydrogen-containing reactant may be used to form a hydrogen-containing layer over the first metal-containing material. The hydrogen-containing reactant may be, for example, formic acid and/or formaldehyde. Any unreacted hydrogen-containing reactant may be purged from within the reaction chamber, and then metal-containing precursor may be flowed into the reaction chamber. The hydrogen-containing layer may be used during conversion of the metal-containing precursor into a second metal-containing material that forms directly against the first metal-containing material. Some embodiments include methods of forming germanium-containing structures, such as, for example, methods of forming phase change materials containing germanium, antimony and tellurium.
US08323734B2	Method for the application of a filter on a web A Fabry-Perot filter is applied as a thin coating on a film, for example, a packaging film, and permits interesting color effects. The coating has a layered construction in which both reflecting layers of the filter may be made of aluminum and the intermediate layer between the reflecting layers may be made of aluminum oxide.
US08323733B2	Method for producing a membrane comprising micropassages made from porous material by chemical mechanical polishing A surface of a support comprising through micropassages is brought into contact with an aqueous solution comprising a plurality of particles in suspension and a pad. A pressure perpendicular to the plane of the support, between the pad and the surface of the support, and a relative movement of the pad and of the surface in a direction parallel to the plane of the support are applied. At least one particle is thus introduced in each microgap to form a porous material therein.
US08323730B2	Method and device for applying adhesive therads and points to a substrate, web of material comprising a fleece and a layer composed of adhesive threads, and products made therefrom The invention relates to a device for applying adhesive threads to a substrate (30). Said device comprises an rotatable application head (18) encompassing at least one adhesive discharge nozzle (18A) located at a radial distance (b) from the axis of rotation (18D) of the application head (18), a shaft (18B), and at least one adhesive supply duct (18C) which extends from an adhesive supply unit (20) to the at least one adhesive discharge nozzle (18A) via the shaft (18B). A rotary drive unit (12, 15, 14) rotates the application head (18) about the shaft (18B) thereof while an adhesive supply unit (20) and/or a valve assembly (22) control/s impingement of the adhesive supply duct (18C) of the application head (18) with adhesive. The invention further relates to a method for applying adhesive threads to a substrate as well as products made therefrom.
US08323726B2	Production method of magnetic carrier and magnetic carrier produced therewith When a surface of magnetic carrier core particles is coated with coating resin composition particles, the coating is conducted so that a surface of the magnetic carrier is free from cracks and chips and has fewer residual resin composition particles and a coating is uniform. In the method, a rotor having a plurality of stirring members on a surface thereof is rotated to coat the surface of magnetic carrier core particles with the resin composition particles. When the coating is conducted, while repeatedly conducting transportation in a direction of a driver and transportation in an anti-driver direction, the surface of the magnetic carrier core particles is coated with the resin composition. The resin composition particles has a 50% particle diameter (D50) based on volume of 0.2 μm or more to 6.0 μm or less and the proportion of particles of 10.0 μm or more is 2.0% by volume or less.
US08323725B2	Soft magnetic material, powder magnetic core and method of manufacturing soft magnetic material A soft magnetic material is a soft magnetic material including a composite magnetic particle (30) having a metal magnetic particle (10) mainly composed of Fe and an insulating coating (20) covering metal magnetic particle (10), and insulating coating (20) contains an iron phosphate compound and an aluminum phosphate compound. The atomic ratio of Fe contained in a contact surface of insulating coating (20) in contact with metal magnetic particle (10) is larger than the atomic ratio of Fe contained in the surface of insulating coating (20). The atomic ratio of Al contained in the contact surface of insulating coating (20) in contact with metal magnetic particle (10) is smaller than the atomic ratio of Al contained in the surface of insulating coating (20). Thus, iron loss can be reduced.
US08323724B2	Liquid droplet discharging apparatus, liquid discharging method, color filter producing method, and organic EL device producing method A liquid droplet discharging apparatus includes a substrate having a plurality of film formation regions; a plurality of nozzles discharging droplets of a liquid, the nozzles being positioned facing the substrate and moved relatively with respect to the substrate to perform a scanning operation so as to discharge the droplets in the film formation regions during the scanning operation; a first moving mechanism moving the substrate relatively with the nozzles in a first direction; a plurality of driving units provided, each corresponding to one of the nozzles; a nozzle driving section generating a plurality of driving signals to supply one of the driving signals changing amounts of the droplets to be discharged to the driving units so as to allow the droplets to be discharged from the nozzles; and a control section controlling the first moving mechanism to allow the scanning operation to be performed a plurality of times over a same film formation region and controlling the nozzle driving section to allow a predetermined amount of the liquid to be discharged as droplets in the same film formation region during the plurality of times of the scanning operations and to change the driving signal applied to the driving units corresponding to nozzles positioned over the film formation region among the nozzles in each of the scanning operations.
US08323723B2	Controlled vapor deposition of biocompatible coatings for medical devices An intraocular lens with a hydrophilic polymer coating composition and method of preparing same are provided. Specifically, a composition suitable for reducing tackiness in intraocular lenses is provided wherein an acrylic intraocular lens is treated by vapor deposition with an alkoxy silyl terminated polyethylene glycol polymer composition.
US08323722B2	Processing of biocompatible coating on polymeric implants The present invention provides polymeric substrates comprising a biocompatible coating and methods of preparation thereof. In particular, the coating may be a ceramic material, especially a calcium phosphate material, which may be functionally graded. The invention provides the ability to apply high quality coatings to polymeric substrates without damaging the substrate (e.g., melting the polymeric material). The functionally graded coating can provide crystalline calcium phosphate near the coating interface with the substrate and provide amorphous calcium phosphate at the outer surface of the coating.
US08323718B2	Co-precipitated carrageenan/xanthan gum compositions and processes for their preparation Co-precipitated carrageenan/xanthan gum compositions and a process for preparation are provided. The compositions are simple to prepare and provide functional performance in a broad range of food, specialty and industrial applications.
US08323717B2	Method of producing baker's yeast The method of producing baker's yeast involves producing yeast from a substrate composed of date syrup (Dips) diluted by molasses in sufficient quantity to lower the concentration of organic acids present in the date syrup that are toxic to yeast to safe levels, preferably a 1:1 mixture (w/w) of date syrup (Dips) and molasses. The substrate is inoculated with viable cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast and placed in a bioreactor or fermentation vessel. The yeast is produced by a fed-batch process to ensure continuous yeast production and prevent or minimize the production of alcohol by the yeast, additional increments of the substrate being added about hourly for the duration (about 12 hours) of the yeast propagation process. The process produces baker's yeast comparable in quality to yeast produced from a pure molasses substrate for such purposes as making bread, and in sufficient quantity to be practical for industrial production.
US08323713B1	Home carbonation method An apparatus to make home carbonated aqueous solutions using commercial low cost screw capped disposable pressurizable beverage containers. The apparatus including screw capped bottles with barbed fittings and flexible tubing and a manifold connection to connect the reservoir bottles with the reactor bottle and the receiver bottle. Valves or pinch clamps, tubing connectors and a pressure relief valve are used. Yeast and a fermentable carbohydrate and water are mixed together in one disposable reactor bottle. The carbon dioxide emanating from the disposable reactor bottle is fed into two or more disposable reservoir bottles such that the carbon dioxide is separated from the yeast, sugar, water, and fermentation alcohols. A pressure relief valve is placed on tubing whose internal pressure is derived from the reactor bottle to prevent unsafe pressures from occurring within in the system. A pressure indicator shows when the system is properly pressurized. A chilled water-containing solution in a disposable receiver bottle to which flavors may be added is connected to the reservoir bottle(s) when the proper pressure has been achieved. The receiver bottle has adequate gas head space to allow the bottle contents to be shaken, hastening the dissolving of the carbon dioxide into the water.
US08323712B2	Process for producing raw sausage with shortened ripening time A process accelerating the ripening of raw sausages by incorporating a casing having a water vapor permeability of less than 600 g/m2 d at a relative humidity of less than 60%. Preferably, the process employs casings having a water vapor permeability of 50 to 400 g/m2 d, more preferably 70 to 300 g/m2 d, particularly preferably 80 to 200 g/m2 d. The process concerns, in particular, single-layered or multilayered casings made of thermoplastics, optionally also coated textile fiber skins or cellulose fiber skins.
US08323710B1	Method of frying shrimp to maintain shape thereof A method of frying a shrimp to maintain an original shape includes a first process of forming a plurality of slits in a lower portion of the body part of the shrimp close to a tail part thereof; a second process of removing a back shell of the body; a third process of coating the head part, the body part, plurality of leg parts, and the tail part of the shrimp from which the back shell thereof has been removed, with a powder form of primary batter; a fourth process of coating the shrimp coated with the powder form of primary batter, with a liquid type of secondary batter; and a process operation of introducing the shrimp into a fry container from an end portion of the head part by acute angle when the shrimp coated with the liquid type of secondary batter is put into the fry container.
US08323708B2	Poultry meat and eggs comprising beneficial fatty acids The present disclosure provides for improved poultry products and methods of producing such poultry products by incorporating healthy lipids containing stearidonic acid into animal feed products. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides methods for producing said products. In one embodiment of the disclosure, a poultry animal may be fed feed comprising a transgenic plant product. In other embodiments of the disclosure, poultry white meat and dark meat products comprising SDA, EPA, DPA, and DHA are disclosed. In further embodiments of the disclosure, poultry eggs comprising SDA, EPA, DHA, and DPA are disclosed.
US08323698B2	Polymers for functional particles The present invention generally relates to polymers and macromolecules, in particular, to block polymers useful in particles such as nanoparticles. One aspect of the invention is directed to a method of developing nanoparticles with desired properties. In one set of embodiments, the method includes producing libraries of nanoparticles having highly controlled properties, which can be formed by mixing together two or more macromolecules in different ratios. One or more of the macromolecules may be a polymeric conjugate of a moiety to a biocompatible polymer. In some cases, the nanoparticle may contain a drug. The moiety, in some embodiments, may have a molecular weight greater than about 1000 Da; for example, the moiety may include a polypeptide or a polynucleotide, such as an aptamer. The moiety may also be a targeting moiety, an imaging moiety, a chelating moiety, a charged moiety, or a therapeutic moiety. Another aspect of the invention is directed to systems and methods of producing such polymeric conjugates. In some embodiments, a solution containing a polymer is contacted with a liquid, such as an immiscible liquid, to form nanoparticles containing the polymeric conjugate. Other aspects of the invention are directed to methods using such libraries, methods of using or administering such polymeric conjugates, methods of promoting the use of such polymeric conjugates, kits involving such polymeric conjugates, or the like.
US08323696B2	Nanoparticles for immunotherapy Nanoparticles that activate complement in the absence of biological molecules are described. The nanoparticles are shown to specifically target antigen presenting cells in specifically in lymph nodes, without the use of a biological molecule for targeting. These particles are useful vehicles for delivering immunotherapeutics. Surface chemistries and chemical formulations for the nanoparticles are described.
US08323695B2	Method for stabilizing phenylephrine The present invention relates to a process for stabilizing phenylephrine including drying an acidic solution of phenylephrine and pharmaceutical compositions including stabilized phenylephrine.
US08323694B2	Gold nanoparticles for selective IR heating Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for increasing the infrared absorptivity of a therapeutic target. Also disclosed are methods for detecting or ablating a therapeutic target that include providing a nanoparticle composition for increasing the infrared absorptivity of the therapeutic target. Subsequently, the therapeutic target having increased infrared absorptivity is exposed to a therapeutically effective dose of infrared irradiation to effect its detection or ablation. In addition, a method is disclosed for treating a subject suffering from a tumor by providing to the tumor a nanoparticle composition for increasing its infrared absorptivity. The tumor having increased infrared absorptivity is then heated by exposing it to a therapeutically effective dose of infrared irradiation.
US08323691B2	Methods and apparatus for determining formulation orientation of multi-layered pharmaceutical dosage forms Rapid and accurate determination of the formulation orientation of multi-layer capsule-shaped tablets with respect to different internal formulation layers proximate to the opposite narrow and rounded ends of the tablets is required. By including an appropriate color scheme in multi-layer osmotic tablets, detection of the formulation orientation is achieved by detecting the color at a spot location on a side of the tablet corresponding to one or another formulation layer or to one or another interface of two formulation layers depending on the formulation orientation of the tablet.
US08323690B2	Solid oral dosage form containing an enhancer The invention relates to a solid oral dosage form comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient in combination with an enhancer which enhances the bioavailability and/or the absorption of the active ingredient. Accordingly, a solid oral dosage form comprises a drug and an enhancer wherein the enhancer is a medium chain fatty acid ester, ether or salt or a derivative of a medium chain fatty acid, which is, preferably, solid at room temperature and which has a carbon chain length of from 6 to 20 carbon atoms. Preferably, the solid oral dosage form is controlled release dosage form such as a delayed release dosage form.
US08323685B2	Methods of processing compositions containing microparticles Methods for processing microparticles involve providing a composition comprising a plurality of solid microparticles and at least one non-volatile material, providing a non-solvent, and exposing the composition to the non-solvent to remove at least a portion of the non-volatile material from the composition while retaining at least the microparticles.
US08323684B2	Occlusive transdermal therapeutic system with a non-occlusive backing layer The invention relates to a TTS with backing layers that guarantee a high wear comfort and that facilitate application in regions of the human body that are subject to great mechanical loads, especially the large joints of the extremities. The inventive backing layers overcome the disadvantages with respect to reduced absorption of the active substance by the skin that are typically associated with such backing layers. The inventive systems are preferably used for the local of systemic administration of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving active substances.
US08323682B2	Appetite suppressant product and method An appetite suppressant composition that is effective for the control of mammalian weight and methods of administration of the composition of the invention are provided. The composition is a cellulose product prepared with ethanol preferably with added sweetener, spice(s), salt and protein for oral administration to a patient.
US08323679B2	Flexible, compressed intravaginal rings, methods of making and using the same, and apparatus for making the same The present invention is directed to flexible, compressed intravaginal rings comprising a substantially homogeneous compressed mixture comprising a polymethacrylate, a plasticizer, and an active agent, and methods of making and using the same, and apparatus for making the same.
US08323678B2	Implantable medical devices comprising poly[l-lactide-co-(3,6-dialkyl-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione)] This invention is directed to implantable medical device comprising a polymeric composition comprising poly[L-lactide-co-(3,6-dialkyl-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione)], alone or as a blend with one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of poly(L-lactide) and poly(3,6-dialkyl-1,4-dioxane-2,5-dione).
US08323674B2	Synergistic biocide composition comprising 2-methylisothiazoline-3-one A biocide composition, comprising 2-methylisothiazolin-3-one as a biocidal active ingredient and at least one further biocidal active ingredient, as an additive to materials capable of being attacked by harmful microorganisms, wherein the composition comprises a pyrithione as the further biocidal active ingredient.
US08323673B2	Concentrated, non-foaming solution of quaternary ammonium compounds and methods of use A concentrated quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) solution comprising a QAC with a concentration greater than about 10% by weight and at least one solubility enhancing agent, such as an alcohol, is disclosed. A diluted QAC solution is useful on food products to prevent microbial growth on the food from a broad spectrum of foodborne microbial contamination. Also disclosed is a method of contacting food products with the dilute QAC for an application time of at least 0.1 second. Foods that can be treated by this method are meat and meat products, seafood, vegetables, fruit, dairy products, pet foods and snacks, and any other food that can be 10 treated and still retain its appearance and texture. One of the treatment methods is spraying and misting the QAC solutions on the food products for an application time of at least 0.1 second to prevent broad spectrum foodborne microbial contamination.
US08323670B2	Topical compositions of opioid antagonists and methods for treating skin conditions therewith Provided are topical compositions comprising opioid antagonists, such as naltrexone or naloxone, or their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, and methods for treating skin conditions, such as those caused by human papillomavirus, therewith.
US08323660B2	Method for identification, isolation and production of antigens to a specific pathogen Described is a method for identification, isolation and production of hyperimmune serum-reactive antigens from a specific pathogen, a tumor, an allergen or a tissue or host prone to autoimmunity, said antigens being suited for use in a vaccine for a given type of animal or for humans, which is characterized by the following steps:—providing an antibody preparation from a plasma pool of said given type of animal or from a human plasma pool or individual sera with antibodies against said specific pathogen, tumor, allergen or tissue or host prone to auto-immunity,—providing at least one expression library of said specific pathogen, tumor, allergen or tissue or host prone to auto-immunity,—screening said at least one expression library with said antibody preparation,—identifying antigens which bind in said screening to antibodies in said antibody preparation,—screening the identified antigens with individual antibody preparations from individual sera from individuals with antibodies against said specific pathogen, tumor, allergen or tissue or host prone to auto-immunity,—identifying the hyperimmune serum-reactive antigen portion of said identified antigens and which hyperimmune serum-reactive antigens bind to a relevant portion of said individual antibody preparations from said individual sera and—optionally isolating said hyperimmune serum-reactive antigens and producing said hyperimmune serum-reactive antigens by chemical or recombinant methods.
US08323659B2	Method for diagnosing and/or treating tumor An object of the present invention is to provide methods for diagnosing and/or treating tumors using HERV-H env gene or HERV-H env Env protein. Specifically, tumors are diagnosed by detecting expression of HERV-H env gene; and agents for detecting the expression are used as diagnosing agents. Further, tumors are treated by inhibiting function of HERV-H env gene; and agents for inhibiting the function are used as antitumor agents. Furthermore, tumors are treated by administering a peptide having a certain sequence of HERV-H Env protein and the like; and the peptide is used as a cancer vaccine.
US08323658B2	Infectious bursal disease virus antigenic isolates and vaccines Antigenic isolates and vaccines for Infectious Bursal Disease Virus include variants of the molecular Group 6 family of IBDV isolates, in particular the 28-1 isolate.
US08323657B2	Antigenic polypeptide usable as therapeutic agent for malignant neoplasm This invention provides a new tumor antigen having an epitope that induces a Th1 cell (a CD4-positive T cell specific to MAGE-A4), and a method ot application thereof.
US08323652B2	Antibodies against GPIbα This application relates to agents capable of specifically recognizing GPIbα, a key receptor required for platelet adhesion and aggregation. More specifically, this application relates to monoclonal antibodies and derivatives thereof capable of specifically recognizing both the murine and the human GPIbα. These monoclonal antibodies and derivatives are particularly useful in the treatment or prevention of thrombosis as well as research tools.
US08323651B2	Antibodies to receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and uses thereof The present application relates to isolated proteins, particularly monoclonal antibodies, in particular CDR-grafted, humanized antibodies which bind to RAGE protein. Specifically, these antibodies have the ability to inhibit the binding of RAGE to its various ligands. The antibodies or portions thereof of described in the present application are useful for treating a disease or disorder characterized by or induced by pathophysiological ligands of RAGE, for example misfolded proteins like amyloid β and advanced glycation-end-products.
US08323643B2	Methods for treating adhesive capsulitis The invention relates to the discovery that collagenase injections are effective in lyse the collagenous adhesions in the shoulder and treat the disorder, adhesive capsulitis. As such, the invention relates to methods of treating or preventing adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, in a patient in need of such treatment comprising injecting or otherwise delivering an effective amount of collagenase to the collagenous adhesions in the shoulder. The invention also relates to the use of collagenase in the manufacture of a medicament to treat adhesive capsulitis.
US08323642B2	Tissue fusion method using collagenase for repair of soft tissue The present invention provides a method of using locally administered collagenase as a non-invasive means of enhancing cell release from the cartilage or fibrocartilage tissues adjacent to a disease or injury site. The subsequent migration of cells from these tissues into the lesion or wound, followed by deposition of the appropriate extracellular matrix, results in closure of the lesion or fusion of a tissue gap.
US08323640B2	Highly functional enzyme having α-galactosidase activity The present invention provides, as an enzyme which can be used for enzyme replacement therapy for Fabry disease, a protein having α-galactosidase activity, which shows no allergic adverse side effect, shows a high stability in blood, and can be easily incorporated into a cell of an affected organ. The protein of the present invention is a protein which has acquired α-galactosidase activity by changing the structure of the active site of wild-type human α-N-acetylgalactosaminidase.
US08323636B2	Long-acting interferons and derivatives thereof and methods thereof A polypeptide and polynucleotides encoding same comprising carboxy-terminal peptides (CTP) of chorionic gonadotrophin attached to an IFN protein are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the polypeptide and polynucleotides of the invention and methods of using same are also disclosed.
US08323635B2	Methods of using interleukin-1 receptor antagonist as a myeloprotective agent The present invention relates to uses of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in promoting bone marrow regeneration, increasing peripheral white blood cells, and increasing platelet levels in subjects if administered prior to treatment with chemotherapeutic agents. Thus, particular embodiments of the invention are directed to uses of IL-1Ra as an adjuvant or ancillary therapy to alleviate the hematopoietic toxicities associated with chemotherapy.
US08323633B2	Antiviral method This invention provides a method of inactivating non-enveloped virus particles. The method includes the step of contacting the virus with a virucidally-enhanced alcoholic composition that includes an alcohol, and an enhancer selected from the group consisting of cationic oligomers and polymers, proton donors, chaotropic agents, and mixtures thereof.
US08323626B2	Lustrous and scratch-resistant nail varnish through addition of silanes A nail varnish additive contains a) at least one silane of the general formula wherein the radicals R1, R2, R3, R4 are identical or different, have 1 to 40 carbon atoms and are non-crosslinking, and optionally b) at least one solvent.
US08323624B2	S-triazine sunscreens bearing hindered para-aminobenzalmalonate/para-aminobenzalmalonamide and aminobenzoate/aminobenzamide substituents Novel s-triazine sunscreens have the structural formula (I): and are formulated into cosmetic/dermatological photoprotective compositions useful for photoprotecting keratinous substances against the damaging effects of UV-radiation.
US08323622B2	Ionic complex nanoparticles for detecting heparanase activities and method for preparing the same Disclosed are Ionic complex nanoparticles for detecting heparanase activities and a method for preparing the same. More specifically, disclosed are Ionic complex nanoparticles for detecting heparanase activities, wherein negative-ion substrate polymers specifically degraded by heparanase and positive-ion biocompatible polymers ionically bind to each other, and fluorophores or quenchers bind to each of the polymers. The ionic complex nanoparticles for detecting heparanase activities may be applied to a method for screening novel drugs such as inhibitors that prevent over-expression of heparanase. Various cells and tissues where over-expression of heparanase occurs may be non-invasively imaged in cancer cells, cancer tissues, and tissues of various inflammatory diseases. Accordingly, the ionic complex nanoparticles for detecting heparanase activities may be effectively used to early diagnose various diseases and incurable diseases including autoimmune diseases such as cancers, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and dementia.
US08323620B2	Ultrasound contrast agent An ultrasound contrast agent composed of at least one kind of low-boiling water-insoluble substance (with a boiling point lower than 37° C.) and at least one kind of high-boiling water-insoluble substance (with a boiling point higher than 37° C.). The former vaporizes to absorb ultrasonic energy upon application of ultrasound, thereby causing the latter to vaporize secondarily, with the resulting bubbles producing an echo image. It is less liable to bumping and hence safe.
US08323616B2	Solid-phase fluorination of benzothiazoles The invention provides a process for the production of an 18F-labelled tracer which comprises treatment of a solid support-bound precursor of formula (I) SOLID SUPPORT-LINKER-X-TRACER (I) wherein X is a group which promotes nucleophilic substitution at a specific site on the attached TRACER and the TRACER is of formula (A).
US08323612B2	Lithium manganate for non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, process for producing the same, and non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery The present invention relates to lithium manganate particles having a primary particle diameter of 1 to 8 μm and forming substantially single-phase particles, which have a composition represented by the following chemical formula: Li1+xMn2-x-yY1yO4+Y2 in which Y1 is at least one element selected from the group consisting of Ni, Co, Mg, Fe, Al, Cr and Ti; Y2 is P and is present in an amount of 0.01 to 0.6 mol % based on Mn; and x and y satisfy 0.03≦x≦0.15 and 0.05≦y≦0.20, respectively, and which lithium manganate particles have a specific surface area of the lithium manganate particles of 0.3 to 0.9 m2/g (as measured by BET method); and have an average particle diameter (D50) of the lithium manganate particles of 3 to 10 μm. A positive electrode active substance of a lithium ion secondary battery using the lithium manganate particles of the present invention has a high output and is excellent in high-temperature stability.
US08323606B2	Hetero-nanocapsule and method of preparing the same Hetero-nanocapsule, which is a carbon nanocapule containing heteroatoms, comprises a closed graphite layer represented by a chemical formula C(D)x, wherein C is carbon atom exhibiting sp2 hybrid orbital, D is hetero-atom, such as B, N, P, or S atom, bonded to the carbon atom; and X is a molar equivalent ranging from 0.0001 to 0.1, based on the molar equivalent of carbon atom as 1. The hetero-nanocapsules may be hollow or filled with metal or metal compound.
US08323604B2	Cerium salt, producing method thereof, cerium oxide and cerium based polishing slurry A cerium salt wherein, when 20 g of the cerium salt is dissolved in a mixed liquid of 12.5 g of 6N nitric acid and 12.5 g of a 30% hydrogen peroxide aqueous solution, a concentration of an insoluble component present in the solution is 5 ppm or less by mass ratio to the cerium salt before dissolution and cerium oxide produced by processing the cerium salt at high temperatures. Scratch on a surface to be polished can be reduced when a cerium based polishing slurry containing the cerium oxide particles is used, since an amount of impurities in cerium oxide particles and cerium salt particles, raw material thereof, is reduced for high purification.
US08323603B2	Desulfurization system and method for desulfurizing a fuel stream A method for producing a substantially desulfurized a hydrocarbon fuel stream at temperatures less than 100° C. The method includes providing a nondesulfurized fuel cell hydrocarbon fuel stream that may include water and passing the fuel stream sequentially through a zeolite Y adsorbent and a selective sulfur adsorbent. The zeolite Y adsorbent may be exchanged with copper ions. The method produces a substantially desulfurized hydrocarbon fuel stream containing less than 50 ppb sulfur.
US08323602B2	Treatment of flue gas from an oxyfuel combustion process Carbon monoxide (CO) may be removed from flue gas generated by oxyfuel combustion of a hydrocarbon or carbonaceous fuel, by contacting the flue gas, or a CO-containing gas derived therefrom, at a first elevated temperature, e.g. at least 80° C., and at a first elevated pressure, e.g. at least 2 bar (0.2 MPa), with at least one catalyst bed comprising a CO-oxidation catalyst in the presence of oxygen (O2) to convert CO to carbon dioxide and produce carbon dioxide-enriched gas. The carbon dioxide produced from the CO may be recovered from the carbon dioxide-enriched gas using conventional carbon dioxide recovery techniques. NO in the flue gas may also be oxidized to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and removed using conventional NO2 removal techniques, or may be reduced in the presence of a reducing gas to nitrogen (N2) which does not have to be removed from the gas.
US08323600B2	Method and catalyst for removal of nitrogen oxides in a flue gas The invention relates to a method and a catalyst for removal of nitrogen oxides in a flue gas from a combustion engine or gas turbine by injecting a reducing agent and reducing the nitrogen oxides in the presence of a catalyst. The catalyst is a zeolite based catalyst on a corrugated monolithic substrate, the substrate has a density of 50-300 g/l and a porosity of at least 50%. The monolithic substrate is a paper of high silica content glass or a paper of E-glass fiber with a layer of diatomaceous earth or a layer of titania, and the catalyst is a Fe-β zeolite.
US08323597B2	Method for purifying exhaust gas containing mercury metal, oxidation catalyst for mercury metal in exhaust gas and method for producing the same Provided are a catalyst for removing mercury metal, which has high activity for a long time even in an exhaust gas containing SO2, and a method for oxidizing mercury metal using the catalyst. A method for purifying exhaust gas, including bringing an exhaust gas containing mercury metal into contact with a catalyst containing titanium oxide as a first component and a sulfate or phosphate of nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn) or vanadium as a second component, at a temperature of from 100° C. to 200° C., and thereby oxidizing the mercury metal.
US08323595B1	Recovery of high purity lead oxide from lead acid battery paste There is provided a process for recovering high purity litharge PbO from spent lead acid battery paste at low temperatures and the further preparation of highly pure lead oxides and Pb(OH)2.
US08323594B2	Method of making hybrid organic-inorganic monomeric materials Monomelic materials are described, comprising inorganic nanoparticles having covalently bonded to their surface at least one polymerizable organic moiety, preferably an ethylenically unsaturated organic moiety. These monomeric materials combine desirable properties of the inorganic particulate material and of the organic monomer, in addition to having the unique properties of nano-sized particles.
US08323593B2	Process for solubilizing, reducing and fixing hexavalent chromium contained in chromite ore processing residue into trivalent chromium Processes for reducing hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI) in a chromite ore processing residue matrix and processes for analyzing and determining effective treatment are disclosed.
US08323591B2	Method of fabricating a mixing chamber and a reactor relating thereto One exemplary embodiment can be a method of fabricating a mixing chamber in a hydroprocessing reactor. The method can include providing a first section forming an opening and coupling a second section including a sidewall to the first section. The second section forms a flange for coupling the mixing chamber and facilitating the mixing of one or more fluids.
US08323590B2	Water gas shift for acetylene converter feed CO control A process and apparatus are presented for the removal of carbon monoxide from ethylene streams. The removal of carbon monoxide before selective hydrogenation protects the catalyst in the selective hydrogenation reactor. Carbon monoxide levels are controlled with the water gas shift process to convert the carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, with the carbon dioxide removed in an acid gas removal process.
US08323588B2	Sample handling device for and methods of handling a sample A sample handling device (100) for handling a sample, the sample handling device (100) comprising a drive shaft (101) being drivable by a drive unit (102), a base plate (103) mounted to follow a motion of the drive shaft (101) when being driven by the drive unit (102), wherein the base plate (103) is configured to receive a sample carrier block (104) mountable to follow a motion of the base plate (103), and a compensation weight (105, 106) mounted asymmetrically on the drive shaft (101) in a manner to at least partially compensate an unbalanced mass of the sample handling device (100) during the motion.
US08323587B2	Microchip device A microchip device of the present invention includes: a microchip in which a liquid flow path is formed for liquid to flow; a gas flow path provided along the liquid flow path; and a plurality of gap sections formed between the liquid flow path and the gas flow path and having one opening thereof facing the liquid flow path and the other opening thereof facing the gas flow path, the gap of the gap section being made so as to be gap through which gas can pass but the liquid cannot pass, and a gas liquid interface being formed at the gap section.
US08323584B2	Method of controlling a microfluidic device having a reduced number of input and output connections A system and method for reducing the number of input/output connections required to connect a microfluidic substrate to an external controller for controlling the substrate. A microfluidic processing device is fabricated on a substrate having a plurality of N independently controllable components, (e.g., a resistive heating elements) each having at least two terminals. The substrate includes a plurality of input/output contacts for connecting the substrate to an external controller, and a plurality of leads for connecting the contacts to the terminals of the components. The leads are arranged to allow the external controller to supply control signals to the terminals of the components via the contacts using substantially fewer contacts than the total number of component terminals. The components are independently controlled by arranging the leads so that each component's terminals are connected to a unique combination of contacts.
US08323580B2	Multi-layer micro structure for sensing substance A micro structure for sensing a substance using light scattering includes a substrate, a first layer on the substrate, wherein the first layer comprises a metallic material, a second layer over the first layer, and a mask layer over the second layer. A plurality of nano holes are formed through the mask layer and the second layer, wherein the plurality of holes are defined in part by internal surfaces on the second layer and the mask layer. Two or more structure layers are formed on the mask layer and the internal surfaces in the plurality of holes. The two or more structure layers comprise different material compositions.
US08323578B2	Method for deoxygenation of smokes and equipment for implementing same The invention relates to a method for the deoxygenation in a chemical loop of smokes resulting from oxidation-combustion reactions, that comprises: a first step during which the smokes are stripped from their oxygen by trapping the same by the oxidation of an oxygen-carrier material, thus producing a main flow of smokes with a reduced oxygen content; and a second step for also producing smokes that can join the main smoke flow and during which the material oxidized during the first step is reduced and regenerated by reaction with the fuel in order to be used again during said step. The invention also relates to an apparatus for implementing said method.
US08323577B2	Layered adaptive membrane structure A layered adaptive membrane structure that has movable membranes is provided. The structure can change its gas, liquid and/or particulate permeability in response to surrounding environmental conditions. Applications include protective apparel that is comfortable to wear wherein the level of protection provided is based on conditions in the environment. Hence, the protective apparel is highly breathable and comfortable in a non-hazardous environment but impermeable or only semipermeable in a hazardous environment.
US08323575B2	Visualization of chemical-analysis data A method includes compressing chemical-analysis data points with no loss of information, generating, from the stored data points, nested data arrays, storing the nested data arrays in a video memory, rendering an image from the nested data arrays, and displaying the rendered image. A chemical-analysis instrument includes a chromatography module, a mass-spectrometry module that receives an eluent from the chromatography module, a computer unit that receives data points from the chromatography and mass-spectrometry modules, and a monitor for displaying rendered images.
US08323572B2	Measuring device A measuring device includes a first substrate; and a second substrate bonded on the first substrate. The second substrate has at least two inflow ports, at least two outflow ports, and an injection port. The two inflow ports, the two outflow ports, and the injection port penetrate the second substrate. The first substrate includes partition wall portions opposing to each other, and forming a first cavity between the partition wall portions, and forming at least two second cavities close against one of the partition wall portions. Each second cavity is provided adjacent to the first cavity. Through holes are provided in the respective partition wall portions to connect the first cavity and the second cavity to each other, and the through holes are adapted to capture an object to-be-tested introduced in the first cavity.
US08323571B1	Ascorbate monitoring and control system Method and system embodiments of the present invention control the ascorbate concentration in produce treatments and particularly are exemplified in fresh cut fruit and vegetable treatments via measured refractivity and/or electrical conductivity of, and/or calcium ions present in, the treatment solution.
US08323570B2	Microelectronic sensor device with sensor array The invention relates to different designs of a microelectronic sensor device comprising an array of heating elements (HE) and an array of sensor elements (SE) that are aligned with respect to each other adjacent to a sample chamber (SC). By applying appropriate currents to the heating elements (HE), the sample chamber can be heated according to a desired temperature profile.
US08323568B2	Magnetic bead assisted sample conditioning system A magnetic bead assisted sampling system for a fluid sensor. Magnetic beads are dispersed in a sampling volume for collecting the analyte. The beads are packed into a small volume for pre-concentration of the analyte. A solvent may be applied to the beads to elute the analyte from the beads for movement to an analyzer.
US08323567B2	Biochemical treatment device with dispensing unit The width of reaction wells and detection wells used for the same sample in a nozzle line direction is made to fall within an area smaller than the pitches of nozzle holding parts, so as to minimize a moving range and enable a pipette action for preventing contamination.
US08323566B2	Liquid sample analysis device A liquid sample analysis device includes a holder part 11 holding a test piece 1, an optical system 20 that optically detects a reaction state of a liquid sample and a reagent, and a support member 30 that integrally supports the holder part 11 and the optical system 20. The orientation of the test piece 1 is changed with respect to the direction of gravitational force by rotating the support member 30.
US08323564B2	Portable sample analyzer system A system relating to sample analyzers, and more particular, to sample analyzers that are simple to operate and have a reduced risk of providing an erroneous result to a user. In some cases, the sample analyzer may be a portable sample analyzer that includes a disposable fluidic cartridge. The operators of the analyzers need not be trained.
US08323563B2	On-demand portable chlorine dioxide generator An on-demand portable chlorine dioxide generator has a reagent bound medium in a first enclosed volume; a complementary reagent solution in a second enclosed volume, and a structure for selecting between a first position where the complementary reagent solution is forced through the reagent bound medium and a second position where said complementary reagent solution remains isolated from the reagent bound ion exchange medium, where a ClO2 solution is generated only during periods when the structure for forcing is actuated. The ClO2 solution can be discharged for use as a portable sprayer that can be used to treat surfaces infected by anthrax or other biological contaminants. When the bound reagent is chlorite, the complementary reagent is an acid or an oxidant. When the bound reagent is an acid or an oxidant, the complementary reagent solution is a chlorite solution.
US08323560B2	Automobile high-strength electric resistance welded steel pipe with excellent low-temperature impact properties and method of manufacturing the same Disclosed is a high-strength electric resistance welded steel pipe which is manufacture from a steel sheet containing, on mass basis, 0.2% to 0.4% C, 0.05% to 0.5% Si, 0.5% to 2.5% Mn, 0.025% or less P, 0.01% or less S, 0.01% to 0.15% or Al, 0.01% to 2% Cu, 0.05% to 2% Cr, 0.005% to 0.2% Ti, and 0.0002% to 0.005% B, with the remainder being iron and inevitable impurities. The steel pipe has a tensile strength of 1750 N/mm2 or more, a 0.1%-proof stress of 1320 N/mm2 or more, and a Charpy impact value at a testing temperature of minus 40° C. of 50 J/cm2 or more.
US08323559B2	Crucible for master alloying A crucible includes a composite of least two materials. The two materials are selected from a group consisting of alumina, calcia, yttria, erbia, gadolinia, magnesia, hafnia, and zirconia in a composition that has better resistance to reaction with hafnium from a molten hafnium-containing alloy than a nominal crucible composition of 70 wt % magnesia and 30 wt % alumina.
US08323558B2	Dynamic control of lance utilizing counterflow fluidic techniques A jet of gas injected from a lance is fluidically deviated with a gas flowing in either the same or opposite direction as the jet of gas. The gas used to fluidically deviate the jet is the same as or different from the gas in the jet.
US08323552B2	Apparatus and method for forming a clay slab A method for forming a clay slab includes providing a frame, a first panel supported on the frame in a vertical orientation and a second panel supported on the frame in a vertical orientation, with the first panel and the second panel defining a gap therebetween. The method further includes positioning a block of clay adjacent the gap defined by the first panel and the second panel, moving at least one of the first panel and the second panel from an initial position to an intermediate position to draw the block of clay between the first panel and the second panel and thereby form the clay slab, and moving at least one of the first panel and the second panel from the intermediate position back to the initial position to withdraw the clay slab from between the first panel and the second panel.
US08323546B2	Non-compliant medical balloon having an integral woven fabric layer A non-compliant medical balloon may be changed from a deflated state to an inflated state by increasing pressure within the balloon. The non-compliant medical balloon is composed of a woven fabric layer composed of at least two woven fabric fibers forming an angle. The angle remains substantially unchanged when the balloon changes from a deflated state to an inflated state.
US08323545B2	Co-extrusion process for making decorative moldings having simulated wood appearance and decorative molding made thereby A co-extrusion process for making decorative moldings having a simulated wood appearance and a given profile includes mixing a base material and color particles to form a mixture, the base material having a rigid polymer and the color particles having a different color from the base material and a higher melt temperature than the base material. The mixture is heated and displaced using a feed screw such that the color particles move helically along the trajectory of the feed screw while avoiding backflow and melting to create corresponding helical vein segments within the base material. The mixture is forced through a tubular channel while controlling heat and shear conditions such that the helical vein segments remain substantially intact. The mixture is fed into a die having at least a first tubular inlet communicating with the tubular channel, a first outlet having a planar shape corresponding to the given profile, and a first cavity between the inlet and the outlet, the cavity having a form to flatten and widen the mixture to produce a planar surface coating at the outlet wherein the helical vein segments are transposed into two-dimensional nested arches simulating wood appearance. The surface coating is extruded onto a first side of a core having cellular polymer material, producing the decorative mouldings.
US08323542B2	Substrate and method of manufacturing polygon flakes A method of forming pigment flakes includes using a deposition substrate having a plurality of regions; some of the regions are raised or lowered so that there is a level difference between each two adjacent regions. A coating deposited onto this substrate breaks along region borders when it is separated from the substrate. In one embodiment, the substrate includes first and second regions, wherein each of the first regions is in an abutting relationship with at least one of the second regions. All the first regions are at a first level and all the second regions are at a second level, and the difference between the first and second levels is greater than a predetermined value. The first and second regions are preferably square-shaped regions for manufacturing square flakes with practically no debris.
US08323539B2	Process and an apparatus for chip-cutting plastic material optical lenses The invention concerns a process and an apparatus for chip-cutting plastic material optical lenses. The point of chip-cutting on the lens is cooled. The chip-cutting is effected by means of lathing. The point of chip-cutting is locally cooled down to a temperature at which the plastic material becomes brittle such that the chip breaks into bits.
US08323535B2	Photochromic compositions and photochromic films The present invention relates to a photochromic composition comprising multifunctional (meth)acrylate-based monomers having two or more functional groups, a photochromic dye and an aromatic vinyl compound, in which the content of the aromatic vinyl compound is more than 30% by weight and 70% by weight or less, a photochromic film produced by using the same, and a method for producing the photochromic film.
US08323531B2	Method for producing conductive polymer solution There is provided a method for producing a conductive polymer solution comprising: a freeze-drying step in which an aqueous conductive polymer solution containing a complex that includes a π-conjugated conductive polymer and a polyanion is freeze dried to thereby obtain a solid complex; and a dispersion step in which an organic solvent having a water content of 4% by mass or less and an amine compound are mixed to the solid complex, followed by a dispersion treatment.
US08323530B2	Phosphor for scintillator Provided is a phosphor for scintillator that can absorb radiation and convert it into visible light, and which has a short fluorescence decay time. The phosphor contains a lutetium sulfide-containing host material and an activator agent ion, for example, a phosphor comprising a composition represented by the general formula (Lu1-xPrx)2S3, or (Lu1-xCex)2S3.
US08323528B1	Phosphorescent compositions, methods of making the compositions, and methods of using the compositions Compositions, methods of making compositions, materials including compositions, crayons including compositions, paint including compositions, ink including compositions, waxes including compositions, polymers including compositions, vesicles including the compositions, methods of making each, and the like are disclosed.
US08323527B2	Fluorene derivatives The invention relates to novel fluorene derivatives, which are especially suitable for use in birefringent films with negative optical dispersion, to novel liquid crystal (LC) formulations and polymer films comprising them, and to the use of the fluorene derivatives, formulations and films in optical, electrooptical, electronic, semiconducting or luminescent components or devices.
US08323525B2	Liquid pigment dispersion and curative agents A resin containing a liquid pigment dispersion is disclosed. The dispersion comprises a pigment dispersed in a blend of two or more active hydrogen-containing materials that together have a freezing point that is room temperature or below. The pigment remains dispersed in the blend, even if the dispersion is subjected to freezing and thawing. A curative blend comprising at least two active hydrogen-containing materials, which is liquid at room temperature, is also disclosed. The dispersions and curative blends of the present invention can be solvent-free. Resins and prepolymers comprising the curative blends of the invention, either pigmented or unpigmented, are also disclosed.
US08323523B2	High pressure bevel etch process A method of bevel edge processing a semiconductor in a bevel plasma processing chamber in which the semiconductor substrate is supported on a semiconductor substrate support is provided. The method comprises evacuating the bevel etcher to a pressure of 3 to 100 Torr and maintaining RF voltage under a threshold value; flowing a process gas into the bevel plasma processing chamber; energizing the process gas into a plasma at a periphery of the semiconductor substrate; and bevel processing the semiconductor substrate with the plasma.
US08323522B2	Plasma reactor and etching method using the same A plasma reactor and an etching method using the same are provided. The method includes a first changing step of changing the number or arrangement structure of inductive coils connecting to an RF source power supply unit, a step of applying RF source power and generating high density plasma, a first etching step of etching a first etch-target layer of a workpiece, a first stopping step of stopping applying the RF source power, a second changing step of changing the number or arrangement structure of the inductive coils, a step of applying RF source power to corresponding inductive coils and generating low density plasma, a second etching step of etching a second etch-target layer of the workpiece, and a second stopping step of stopping applying the RF source power.
US08323520B2	Method for manufacturing fine concave-convex pattern and sheet for manufacturing fine concave-convex pattern According to a first aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a concave-convex pattern includes the steps of heating a sheet-like member, compressively bonding the sheet-like member, removing the sheet-like member after the compressively bonding, and transferring a pattern shape of a reverse concave-convex pattern layer to a surface of the substrate. The sheet-like member has a concave-convex pattern block on at least one of surfaces thereof, and is given flowability thereto by heating. The reverse concave-convex pattern layer is formed on the one of the surfaces, and continues over two or more concaves of the concave-convex pattern block so that the reverse concave-convex pattern layer meshes at least partially with the concave-convex pattern block. At least the reverse concave-convex pattern layer is left on the substrate. Here, the one of the surfaces has the concave-convex pattern block.
US08323519B2	Method for manufacturing liquid discharge head A method for manufacturing a liquid discharge head including a flow path forming member to form a flow path communicating with a discharge port for discharging liquids includes forming an organic material layer on a substrate, applying a soluble resin on the organic material layer to form a resin layer, patterning the resin layer to form a pattern with a shape of the flow path, forming a cover layer as the flow path forming member on the pattern, forming the discharge port to expose a part of the pattern from the cover layer, eluting the pattern from the discharge port to form the flow path, irradiating a substance sticking to a surface of the flow path forming member on which the discharge port is formed with ultraviolet light, wherein the substance contains at least the organic material, and removing the sticking substance.
US08323518B2	Fabrication method and fabrication apparatus of head using near field light A method of manufacturing a near-field optical head. A first projection shaped in a quadrangular pyramid is formed on a surface of a substrate for providing a near-field optical element of the near-field optical head. A second projection shaped in a frustum of quadrangular pyramid is formed on the surface of the substrate for providing an air bearing surface of the near-field optical head. A metal film is formed on at least one surface of the first projection and the metal film is connected with a resistance meter through a conduction wiring for detecting an electrical resistance of the metal film. The first and second projections and the metal film are polished while the resistance meter detects an electrical resistance of the metal film and until the detected electrical resistance reaches a predetermined value such that a top surface of the first projection has a specified size and becomes flush with a surface of the second projection providing the air bearing surface.
US08323516B2	Etching processes used in MEMS production The efficiency of an etching process may be increased in various ways, and the cost of an etching process may be decreased. Unused etchant may be isolated and recirculated during the etching process. Etching byproducts may be collected and removed from the etching system during the etching process. Components of the etchant may be isolated and used to general additional etchant. Either or both of the etchant or the layers being etched may also be optimized for a particular etching process.
US08323512B2	Method of and apparatus for producing sub-critical water decomposition products A method of and an apparatus for continuous sub-critical water decomposition treatment for material to be processed containing solid matter are provided, which are capable of controlling decomposition reaction of the material to be processed and suitable for large-scale operations. The method and the apparatus are also capable of minimizing equipment costs and selectively producing desired useful substances at high yield rates.Material to be processed is grinded in advance into particles, which are mixed with water to prepare slurry. The slurry is sent to a compressing device (1) through a pipe and is compressed. Next, the compressed slurry is sent to a heating device 2 and heated, and is brought into a sub-critical state. The slurry in a sub-critical condition is introduced through an inlet (8) into a bottom part of a reactor (3). In the reactor (3) a fixed bed, a fluidized bed, and a sub-critical water dissolution part are formed in that order from the bottom. One(s) of outlets (101) to 106 provided at top and side portions of the reactor 3 is/are selected so that the sub-critical water dissolution part is taken out therethrough, whereby the residence time of the sub-critical water is adjusted and thus the reaction time of sub-critical water decomposition of the material to be processed is adjusted.
US08323511B1	Method and apparatuses for connecting sanitizing and other devices to water lines A method for connecting a chlorine generator to a pipe carrying a flow of water is disclosed. A short section of rigid pipe conveying water to the chlorine generator is configured at an end inserted into the water flow so that the flow forces water into the rigid pipe and into the chlorine generator, and a second short section of rigid pipe that returns chlorinated water from the chlorine generator to the flow of water is configured at an end inserted into the water flow so that the flow draws the chlorinated water into the flow. A single clamp around the pipe carrying the flow may be used to mount both sections of short rigid tubing to and from the chlorine generator.
US08323509B2	Rehabilitation method A method of rehabilitation of a deposition area to render it suitable for plant growth comprising a particulate mineral material, which particulate mineral material has been dewatered from a suspension of said material, comprising the steps of transferring the suspension of particulate mineral material as a fluid to the deposition area, and in which the suspension is allowed to stand and dewater at the deposition area to form a dewatered particulate mineral material, wherein the rehabilitation of the disposal area is achieved by adding a dewatering amount of a polymer to the suspension of the particulate mineral material while it is being transferred as a fluid to the deposition area, wherein the polymer is either a synthetic water-soluble polymer formed from one or more ethylenically unsaturated monomers having an intrinsic viscosity of at least 4 dl/g or a water-soluble polymer that is a natural polymer or semi natural polymer.
US08323507B2	Device and method for the elimination of magnetic particles from a liquid Device for the separation of magnetic particles from a liquid, comprising a first vessel (10), a second vessel (20), a connecting surface (11, 21, 30; 200) that runs from the interior of the first vessel (10) to the interior of the second vessel (20), at least one magnet (40) for the provision of a magnetic field, and a guide element (50) by means of which the magnetic field can be guided along one side of the connecting surface (11, 21, 30; 200).
US08323505B2	System and method for wastewater treatment The present disclosure is directed towards systems and methods for the treatment of wastewater. A system in accordance with one particular embodiment may include a vacuum filter band system configured to receive a saturated ion exchange resin tank and to apply a water rinse to the resin to generate a resin slurry. The vacuum filter band system may further include a vacuum filter band configured to receive the resin slurry. The vacuum filter band system may also be configured to generate a mixed metal solution. The system may further include a metal specific purification system including a plurality of purification units configured to receive a continuous flow of the mixed metal solution, each of the purification units configured to target a particular metal from the mixed metal solution. Numerous other embodiments are also within the scope of the present disclosure.
US08323504B2	Methods and apparatus for making a chromatography column Methods for depositing a stationary phase in a tube for chromatography, in particular, as a variable gradient column are disclosed. The methods include providing a tube, loading the tube with a concentration gradient of a stationary phase precursor along its length, and removing the solvent such that the stationary phase precursor is deposited within the tube as a stationary phase to form a chromatography column. The concentration gradient is formed by combining at least a first fluid and a second fluid, with the first fluid containing the stationary phase precursor in a solvent.
US08323501B2	Methods of extracting algae components for diesel blend stock production utilizing alcohols A method for producing biofuels is provided. A method of making biofuels includes dewatering substantially intact algal cells to make an algal biomass, extracting neutral lipids from the algal biomass, and esterifying the neutral lipids with a catalyst in the presence of an alcohol. The method also includes separating a water soluble fraction comprising glycerin from a water insoluble fraction comprising fuel esters and distilling the fuel esters under vacuum to obtain a C16 or shorter fuel esters fraction, a C16 or longer fuel ester fraction, and a residue comprising carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids. The method further includes hydrogenating and deoxygenating at least one of (i) the C16 or shorter fuel esters to obtain a jet fuel blend stock and (ii) the C16 or longer fuel esters to obtain a diesel blend stock.
US08323499B1	Wastewater treatment method and membrane bioreactor having mixed liquor and air conduits in a filtration tank Biologically treated wastewater is directed as mixed liquor from a treatment tank to a downstream filtration tank having a having a submerged membrane module extending across the cross-sectional area of the filtration tank. Mixed liquor is directed from the bottom of the filtration tank upwardly into the membrane module such that substantially all of the mixed liquor received in the bottom of the filtration tank flows through the membrane module. A permeate stream is produced. A portion of a non-permeate stream is recirculated to the treatment tank. The filtration tank is sized such that there is no substantial recycle of mixed liquor in the filtration tank. Once the mixed liquor in the filtration tank makes one pass through the membrane module the mixed liquor is recycled to the treatment tank and generally not permitted to be recycled through the membrane module without first returning to the treatment tank.
US08323494B2	System and method for sewage and wastewater treatment The present invention relates to a sewage/wastewater treatment system comprising a rectangular upflow anaerobic/oxygen-free reaction tank and a method of treating sewage/wastewater using the same. The rectangular upflow anaerobic/oxygen-free reaction tank comprises a water introducing unit, an inlet unit being in fluid communication with the water introducing unit and having a plurality of through-holes formed therein through which water introduced from the water introducing unit can pass, a mixing unit comprising a main shaft and a plurality of spaced-apart stirring blades fixed to the main shaft, and an outlet unit for collecting water after being treated in the anaerobic/oxygen-free reaction tank. The system and method can treat sewage/wastewater cost-effectively.
US08323487B2	Waste water treatment apparatus A method for producing a nitrite type nitrification-reactive sludge includes the step of subjecting an activated sludge to alkali treatment so that the pH of the activated sludge containing at least the ammonium oxidizing bacteria and nitrite oxidizing bacteria can be 10 or higher, in order to accumulate ammonium oxidizing bacteria with higher priority in the activated sludge.
US08323485B2	Storm water filter systems A filter system for a storm drain having an inlet is disclosed. The filter system may be configured to receive storm water having debris and to separate at least a portion of the debris from the storm water to produce filtered storm water. The filter system may include a pervious paver having a feed side and a permeate side, the pervious paver being configured to receive storm water on the feed side and to retain at least a portion of the debris on the feed side. The filtered storm water may be formed from the storm water that passes from the feed side to the permeate side. The filter system may additionally include a frame assembly configured to support the pervious paver adjacent to the inlet.
US08323479B2	Converting heavy sour crude oil/emulsion to lighter crude oil using cavitations and filtration based systems A process for converting heavy sulfur-containing crude oil into lighter crude oil with lower sulfur content and lower molecular weight is provided. The process is a low-temperature process using controlled cavitation.
US08323478B2	Process for measuring and adjusting halide in an alkylation reactor A process, comprising: a. taking a sample from a continuous alkylation reactor process; b. measuring a content of a halide in the sample; and c. within 45 minutes from the taking a sample, adjusting a flow of a halide containing additive comprising the halide to control a ratio of a yield of an alkylate gasoline and a yield of a middle distillate. Also a process, comprising: a. taking a sample from an effluent of an alkylation reactor in an alkylation reactor process; b. measuring a content of a halide in the sample; and c. in response to the measured content of the halide, adjusting a flow of a halide containing additive to a predetermined range that has been selected to obtain a ratio of a yield of an alkylate gasoline and a yield of a middle distillate from 0.31 to 4.0 in a product from the alkylation reactor.
US08323474B2	Electro-chemical water processing apparatus and method thereof Provided is an electro-chemical water treatment apparatus and method for removing total nitrogen ingredients of ammonia nitrogen, nitrous acid nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen etc., organic materials of BOD and COD induction ingredients, and cyanogen included in wastewater and dirty water. The apparatus includes: a wastewater collection reservoir that contains wastewater; a wastewater storage retention reservoir that controls a hydrogen ion concentration (pH), an electrical conductivity and an amount of flow of wastewater; an electrolyte tank which makes the electrical conductivity of the wastewater as an electrical conductivity at which an electrolysis can be achieved; a pH conditioner tank that supplies a pH conditioner for the wastewater; an electrolyzer including an anode plate and a cathode plate, and a number of electrodes which are arranged as an electrification body between the anode plate and the cathode plate; and a controller which grasps state of wastewater and which is connected to the anode plate and the cathode plate to thereby control the electrolysis.
US08323471B2	Automatic deposition profile targeting A method of automatic deposition profile targeting for electrochemically depositing copper with a position-dependent controllable plating tool including the steps of depositing copper on a patterned product wafer, measuring an actual thickness profile of the deposited copper and generating respective measurement data, feeding the measurement data to an advanced process control (APC) model and calculating individual corrections for plating parameters in the position-dependent controllable plating tool.
US08323463B2	Catalyst containing oxygen transport membrane A composite oxygen transport membrane having a dense layer, a porous support layer and an intermediate porous layer located between the dense layer and the porous support layer. Both the dense layer and the intermediate porous layer are formed from an ionic conductive material to conduct oxygen ions and an electrically conductive material to conduct electrons. The porous support layer has a high permeability, high porosity, and a high average pore diameter and the intermediate porous layer has a lower permeability and lower pore diameter than the porous support layer. Catalyst particles selected to promote oxidation of a combustible substance are located in the intermediate porous layer and in the porous support adjacent to the intermediate porous layer. The catalyst particles can be formed by wicking a solution of catalyst precursors through the porous support toward the intermediate porous layer.
US08323458B2	Electro-magnetic treatment of a modified biomass A process is disclosed for making a biomass susceptible to depolymerization or liquefaction under mild conditions. The process comprises introducing into the biomass a material susceptible to the absorption of electro-magnetic radiation to form a radiation absorbent biomass. The radiation absorbent biomass is subjected to electro-magnetic radiation to form an activated biomass.
US08323456B2	Removal of bound water from bio-oil A process and system for removing bound water from bio-oil by azeotropic distillation. The process includes combining a bound-water-containing bio-oil with an azeotrope agent and subjecting the resulting treated bio-oil to azeotropic distillation under reduced pressure. The azeotropic distillation removes a substantial portion of the bound water from the bio-oil, thus producing a water-depleted bio-oil that is less corrosive, more stable, and more readily miscible with hydrocarbons.
US08323453B2	Method and installation for the combination of plies forming an absorbent sheet The present invention relates to a method for the combination of at least two plies of tissue paper without glue and by pressure marking, characterized in that it involves embossing at least one first ply according to an embossing design by passage between a first cylinder and a second cylinder covered externally with a rubber blanket, then combining at least one second ply with the first ply by causing both plies to pass between the first engraved steel cylinder of axis CC′ and at least one first series of small externally smooth coaxial cylinders of axis XX′. Both plies are then passed between the first cylinder and a second series of small externally smooth coaxial cylinders of axis YY′, the axes of CC′, XX′; and YY′ being horizontal and parallel. The invention also includes the apparatus for carrying out the disclosed method.
US08323452B2	Method for optimizing the energy balance in forming sections in machines for the production of fibrous webs, and forming section using control elements associated with dewatering units A forming section in a machine for producing a web of fibrous material includes a control and/or regulating system including a control and/or regulating device which is connected with at least one device for at least indirect acquisition of one value at least indirectly characterizing the dry content of the fibrous web in a transfer area from the forming section to a following function unit, with a device for input of a desired value for the target dry content, and with at least the control elements of an individual dewatering unit located prior to one of the last dewatering units, or the last dewatering unit inside the compression zone. The control and/or regulating device also includes a device for creating the control variables for controlling the individual dewatering units.
US08323450B2	Method of manufacturing heat storage material, heat storage material, and heat storage adsorbent material and canister The invention relates to a method of manufacturing a heat storage material that contains heat storage capsules. The heat storage capsules include a phase change material that absorbs and/or discharges latent heat in response to a change in temperature. The phase change material resides within outer shells of the heat storage capsules. The method involves binding abutting peripheral portions of a plurality of heat storage capsules with a molding binder, so as to form an intermediate granular molded heat storage material. An outer peripheral surface portion of the granular molded heat storage material is coated with a coating binder. The coated granular molded heat storage material is then subjected to a treatment that causes the coating binder of the coating layer to polymerize. The invention also relates to heat storage adsorbent materials, and articles (e.g., canisters) that include such heat storage adsorbent materials.
US08323447B2	Process for the manufacturing of a thermosetting laminate A process for the manufacturing of a decorative laminate, which laminate comprises an upper decorative and abrasion resistant thermosetting laminate layer and a carrying core. The upper side of the core is provided with the abrasion resistant thermosetting laminate while the lower side of the core is provided with a balance layer. This balance layer has the purpose of preventing warping of said decorative laminate while at the same time having the purpose of acoustic dampening. The balance layer comprises a layer of a polymer. The balance layer and the thermosetting laminate are joined with said core by means of pressing. Said carrying core further is provided with a dampening foil of an elastomer arranged between the upper side of the core and the abrasion resistant thermosetting laminate. The elastomer and thermosetting laminate are joined with each other and with the core by means of pressing. The achieved laminate is then cut into panels and provided with edges intended for joining.
US08323446B2	Curing method and apparatus for manufacturing beams of composite material with a J-shaped cross-section In order to manufacture beams of composite material with a J-shaped cross-section, a curing apparatus includes a bar supported parallel to a table by two end supports. A J-shaped beam of uncured composite material is prepared and arranged on the apparatus, positioning the bottom flange of the beam so that it faces the table and resting the web and the upper flange against two respective sides of the bar. The beam is covered with a vacuum bag and pressure and heat are applied inside an autoclave in order to cure the resin in the beam.
US08323445B2	Method for lining a pipe conduit or a duct A process for lining a pipeline, comprising the following steps: pouring in an adhesive, introducing the tube with inversion into the pipeline by applying pressure, providing the conditions for the adhesive situated on the outside of the tube by irradiation using energy-containing waves, and maintaining the internal pressure in the introduced tube until the adhesive is cured, severing the connection between the tube and a retaining strap, which extends through the entire tube in the longitudinal direction thereof, at the end which is at the front in the direction of movement of the tube after the tube has been introduced, coupling the severed end of the retaining strap outside the pipeline to a radiation unit, using the retaining strap to pull the radiation unit, in the non-activated state, through the tube as far as the end thereof which is at the rear in the direction of movement of said tube, pulling the supply cable for the radiation unit into the tube behind said unit, and then using the supply cable to pull the radiation unit, in the activated state, through the tube.
US08323435B2	Mechanical fastening system for an article A mechanical fastening system for products, for example, an absorbent article such as infant training pants, in which the mechanical fastening system is a hook-and-loop type fastening system on the garment in which the loop material is a nonwoven material laminate which has been post bonded after the laminate has been constructed.
US08323434B2	Method for manufacturing spherical Fresnel lens Manufacturing spherical Fresnel lens includes providing a first optical element with a regular hexagonal first Fresnel micro-lens in the center of the first optical element and six regular hexagonal second Fresnel micro-lens arrayed around the first Fresnel micro-lens. One edge of the second Fresnel micro-lens is connected to one edge of the first Fresnel micro-lens. The first optical element is stressed to yield a spherical cap configuration of the first optical element, and a second optical element is provided matched to the first optical element, and including a plurality of Fresnel micro-lens. The second optical element is bent into a curve shaped configuration having a curvature as the bent first optical element, and a number of bent second optical elements are assembled around the bent first optical element in sequence to form a hemispherical-shaped configuration.
US08323433B1	Method of making a cord style flexible golf grip A method of making a corded surface flexible elastomer golf club grip. An underlist is extruded of seamless tubular uncured elastomer and a pattern of textile cords wound thereon. In one version of the method, an outer seamless tubular extruded uncured elastomer layer is assembled over the cord patterned underlist. A core rod is inserted in the underlist, an uncured elastomer cap assembled on the end and the assemblage cured in a heated compression mold. Upon removal from the mold, some material is removed from the outer surface to expose some of the cord. In another version, the uncured cord wound underlist with core rod is inserted in a mold cavity and a thin outer layer of elastomer injection molded thereover and the assemblage cured in the mold.
US08323431B2	Jamming detection method and sheet laminating apparatus using same A jamming detection method and a sheet laminating apparatus using the jamming detection method are provided. The sheet laminating apparatus includes a laminating channel, a laminating roller assembly, a distance sensor, a document sensor and a controller. The distance sensor is used for measuring a moving distance of a document. The document sensor is used for detecting a transmitting status of the document. According to the moving distance of the document and the transmitting status of the document, the controller discriminates whether a jamming condition of the sheet laminating apparatus occurs.
US08323426B2	Al-Li rolled product for aerospace applications The present invention is directed to a substantially unrecrystallized rolled aluminum alloy product, obtained from a plate with a thickness of at least 30 mm, comprising 2.2 to 3.9 wt. % Cu, 0.7 to 2.1 wt. % Li, 0.2 to 0.8 wt. % Mg, 0.2 to 0.5 wt. % Mn, 0.04 to 0.18 wt. % Zr, less than 0.05 wt. % Zn, and optionally 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % Ag, remainder aluminum and unavoidable impurities having a low propensity to crack branching during L-S a fatigue test. A product of the invention has a crack deviation angle Θ of at least 20° under a maximum equivalent stress intensity factor Keff max of 10 MPa √m for a S-L cracked test sample under a mixed mode I and mode II loading wherein the angle Ψ between a plane perpendicular to the initial crack direction and the load direction is 75°.
US08323425B2	Artificial aging process for aluminum alloys Embodiments of a method for non-isothermally aging an aluminum alloy are provided. The method comprises heating an aluminum alloy at a first ramp-up rate to a maximum temperature below a precipitate solvus value, cooling the alloy at a first cooling rate sufficient to produce a maximum number of primary precipitates, cooling at a second cooling rate until a minimum temperature is reached wherein the growth rate of primary precipitates is equal to or substantially zero, and heating the alloy at a second ramp-up rate to a temperature sufficient to produce a maximum number of secondary precipitates.
US08323423B2	Erosion resistant cermet linings for oil and gas exploration, refining and petrochemical processing applications The present invention is directed to a method for protecting metal surfaces in oil & gas exploration and production, refinery and petrochemical process applications subject to solid particulate erosion at temperatures of up to 1000° C. The method includes the step of providing the metal surfaces in such applications with a hot erosion resistant cermet lining or insert, wherein the cermet lining or insert includes a) about 30 to about 95 vol % of a ceramic phase, and b) a metal binder phase, wherein the cermet lining or insert has a HEAT erosion resistance index of at least 5.0 and a K1C fracture toughness of at least 7.0 MPa-m1/2. The metal surfaces may also be provided with a hot erosion resistant cermet coating having a HEAT erosion resistance index of at least 5.0.
US08323412B2	Substrate support, substrate processing device and method of placing a substrate A substrate support for supporting a substrate in a processing chamber comprises a frame for carrying the substrate, at least a first fastening means fixedly attached to the frame for aligning the substrate relative to the frame, and at least a second fastening means movably attached to the frame, the second fastening means being movable relative to the frame and/or the substrate. Furthermore, a processing device comprises an edge exclusion projecting over a portion of the surface of the substrate in order to prevent processing of the portion of the surface of the substrate. A part of the edge exclusion may be moved into a gap between the edge(s) of the substrate and the frame element of the substrate support to form a labyrinth seal between the frame element and the edge of the substrate. A method of placing the substrate on the substrate support is also disclosed.
US08323410B2	High throughput chemical treatment system and method of operating A high throughput chemical treatment system for processing a plurality of substrates is described. The chemical treatment system is configured to chemically treat a plurality of substrates in a dry, non-plasma environment.
US08323408B2	Methods and apparatus to provide group VIA materials to reactors for group IBIIIAVIA film formation Processes and apparatus are described that form a solar cell absorber on a surface of a workpiece by reacting a precursor layer disposed on the surface of the workpiece with an absorber constituent vapor in a heating chamber. The absorber constituent material is delivered from an absorber constituent material delivery system in molten form into a container in the heating chamber and vaporized to be used during the reaction.
US08323404B2	Group III nitride crystal and manufacturing method thereof A group III nitride crystal containing therein an alkali metal element comprises a base body, a first group III nitride crystal formed such that at least a part thereof makes a contact with the base body, the first group III nitride crystal deflecting threading dislocations in a direction different from a direction of crystal growth from the base body and a second nitride crystal formed adjacent to the first group III nitride crystal, the second nitride crystal having a crystal growth surface generally perpendicular to the direction of the crystal growth.
US08323401B2	Compressive strength improvement of cement and gypsum products The invention relates generally to a cement or gypsum composition having improved properties, which is prepared by incorporating an enzyme into a cement material such as a cement, mortar, or concrete, or into a gypsum product. The invention also relates to methods of manufacturing improved cement compositions and gypsum products, methods of improving the compressive strength of cement compositions and gypsum products, and methods of reducing the cost of such compositions by enabling the use of less expensive aggregates in the manufacturing process. More specifically, the invention relates to a cement composition or a gypsum composition, optionally including at least one aggregate and optionally including at least one pozzolan, comprising a cement material or gypsum optionally including aggregate(s) and pozzolan(s) having blended therein an enzyme.
US08323400B2	Additive composition for mortars, cements and joint compounds and cementitious compositions made therefrom An additive composition for mortars, exterior insulation finish systems, self-leveling compounds and joint compounds is disclosed. The additive composition contains a nitrogen-containing polymer and a reactive agent capable of forming a crosslinking reaction with the nitrogen-containing polymer. Small amounts of the additive composition contained in a product not only can increase one or more properties of the product but can also minimize the use of redispersible polymers in the product.
US08323399B2	High early strength pozzolan cement blends A high early strength blended cement composition includes larger sized fly ash and/or natural pozzolan particles blended with smaller sized hydraulic cement particles containing tricalcium silicate and/or dicalcium silicate (e.g., Portland cement and/or ground granulated blast furnace slag). Excess calcium released from the hydraulic cement particles when mixed with water forms calcium hydroxide available for reaction with the fly ash and/or natural pozzolan. The fineness of the hydraulic cement particles is substantially greater than the fineness of the fly ash and/or natural pozzolan particles (e.g., about 1.25 to about 50 times greater). Reducing or eliminating coarse hydraulic cement particles that cannot fully hydrate but include unreacted cores reduces or eliminates wasted cement normally found in concrete. Replacing some or all of the coarse cement particles with coarse pozzolan particles provides a blended cement composition having significantly lower water demand compared to the hydraulic cement fraction by itself.
US08323398B2	Construction material based on activated fly ash The disclosure concerns cost effective concrete formulations based on an alkali activated binder. The construction material of the concrete type, contains sand, fine aggregates, coarse aggregates, water and a binder comprising: from 55 to 80 wt. % of fly ash containing less than wt. 8% of CaO; from 15 to 40 wt. % of blast furnace slag; a chemical activator containing: from 0.8 to 4 wt. % of alkaline silicates; and from 1.5 to 9 wt. % of alkaline carbonates; wherein the chemical activator has an silica to alkali molar ratio from 0.1 to 0.55; and a booster comprising at least one strong base. The disclosure also concerns a method to produce such a concrete construction material.
US08323397B2	Talc for paint products and method of making the same A talc slurry and a method of producing the talc slurry. A talc product includes the talc slurry having total solids (TS) 40% or higher and a dispersant agent and/or a thickener.
US08323395B2	Sulphur cement pre-composition and process for preparing such sulphur cement pre-composition The present invention provides a sulphur cement pre-composition, comprising sulphur and at least an organotitanate, which organotitanate is of the general molecular formula (1): wherein R1 is CnH(2n)—SaR4 or CmH(2m+1) and n is an integer in the range of from 1 to 4, m is an integer in the range of from 1 to 30 and a is an integer in the range of from 2 to 8, R4 is S, H, or CpH(2p+1) and p is an integer in the range of from 1 to 8, XO is an alkoxy or neoalkoxy group, R2 and R3 are, independently, a CnH(2n)—SaR4, alkyl, neoalkyl, acyl or aryl group. The invention further provides a process for preparing such sulphur cement pre-composition, processes for the preparation of a sulphur cement product, a sulphur cement product and the use of such sulphur cement pre-composition. The invention even further relates to the use of an organotitanate stabilizing agent.
US08323394B2	Warm mix asphalt binder compositions containing lubricating additives The present invention provides a functionally dry warm mix asphalt binder composition modified with lubricating agents or additives that can be mixed with aggregate and compacted at temperatures substantially below asphalt binder compositions that do not contain the disclosed lubricating additives.
US08323390B1	Slurry for prevention of sewer corrosion using mixtures of magnesium hydroxide and/or titanium dioxide and sodium hydroxide via the crown spray process An improved sprayable aqueous slurry for inhibiting corrosion in sewer pipe lines comprising an aqueous mixture of about 100% by volume of a metal hydroxide and/or a metal dioxide selected from a class consisting of magnesium hydroxide and titanium dioxide and less than about 1% by volume of sodium hydroxide, the metal hydroxide and the metal dioxide having mixing rates of about 50 to 60% by volume with about 50 to 40% by volume of water and the sodium hydroxide having a mixing rate of about 50% by volume with about 50% of water and the slurry having a pH of 13.0 or more and a useful life of about 15 to about 24 months.
US08323383B2	Cyclone with classifier inlet and small particle by-pass In a cyclone and a method for operating a cyclone, in a duct leading to an inlet of the cyclone, at least partial separation of particles according to size takes place. A bypass arrangement diverts selected particles to the discharge duct of the cyclone. The cyclone is suitable for separating particles from blast furnace waste gases.
US08323381B2	Two phase reactor A two phase reactor includes a source of liquid reactant and a source of gas reactant. A chamber has an inlet coupled to the source of gas reactant and a flat jet nozzle coupled to the source of the liquid reactant.
US08323380B2	Systems and methods for reducing off-gassed ozone Systems and methods for producing an ozone destructor are disclosed herein. Generally, these systems and methods include an ozone destructor that has a housing defining an air passage duct. In some cases, this air passage duct includes a first chamber and a second chamber that are arranged so that air is able to flow into the first chamber, through the second chamber, and out of the destructor. In some cases, an air drying mechanism is disposed in the first and/or the second chamber. Additionally, in some cases, the ozone destructor further includes multiple mechanisms that reduce ozone to oxygen. In light of these features, the ozone destructor is capable of incrementally drying and reducing air and ozone, respectively, as they pass through the first chamber and the second chamber.
US08323379B2	Devices, systems and methods for reducing the concentration of a chemical entity in fluids A method of improving the blood compatibility of a blood-contacting surface includes immobilizing carbonic anhydrase on the surface, wherein the surface exhibits carbonic anhydrase activity of at least 20% of maximum theoretical activity of the surface based on monolayer surface coverage of carbonic anhydrase.
US08323375B2	Method of operating a converter and apparatus for carrying out the method The present invention relates to a method of operating a converter, in particular a Peirce-Smith converter or a converter with similar design or mode of operation, and to an apparatus, for instance a plant, for carrying out the method. The method comprises the step of: loading the converter with a starting material comprising said metal, the metal in the starting material being chemically bound at least in part to at least one compound substance, in particular sulphur; maintaining a temperature within the converter interior space, which is above the melting temperature of the starting material; and supplying an oxygen-containing process gas into the converter interior space through injection nozzles arranged in the wall of the converter, the gas supplied through the injection nozzles comprising carbon dioxide, preferably very cold, technically pure carbon dioxide, as well as oxygen gas and/or air.
US08323372B1	Low coefficient of thermal expansion cermet compositions Low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) cermet compositions of this invention generally comprise a hard phase material and a ductile phase formed from a binder alloy, wherein the binder alloy is specially designed having a CTE that is closely matched to the hard phase material. Hard phase materials used to form low CTE compositions of this invention are selected from the group of carbides consisting of W, Ti, Mo, Nb, V, Si, Hf, Ta, and Cr carbides. The binder alloy is formed from a mixture of metals selected from the group consisting of Co, Ni, Fe, W, Mo, Ti, Ta, V, Nb, C, B, Cr, and Mn. In a preferred embodiment, low CTE compositions comprises WC as the hard phase material, and a ductile phase binder alloy formed from a mixture of Fe, Co, and Ni. The so-formed low CTE composition has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is less than that of conventional WC—Co at the same temperature and having the same metal content, thereby providing improved resistance to thermal shock and thermal fatigue related failure.
US08323371B2	Process for synthesizing a compacted product A method forming a potassium chloride particle form potassium chloride powder having resistance to moisture absorption and shrinkage. The original feedstock comprises potassium chloride in a size distribution of 30 mesh and 100 mesh as well as a gluten based binder.
US08323370B2	Captive toolees fastener for securing an engine intake air filter and clamp assembly for air filter housing The invention has a captive tooless fastener for securing the engine intake air filter. The tooless fastener comprises shaft and associated bodies. The body has two arms oriented about 180 degrees apart. The shaft is threaded through a sealing washer and an aperture in a closed end cap of the air filter. The shaft is expanded so it cannot be removed from the end cap. The body's threaded inner diameter mates with a threaded portion of a central shaft in an air filter housing. The body's arms are rotated to screw the fastener and the shaft of the housing together. When tightened, the sealing washer closes the aperture. To remove the air filter, the fastener is unscrewed from the shaft of the housing and in the shaft floats in the aperture. A person in the field can remove the air filter by inserting fingers under the arms and pulling.
US08323364B2	Control system for an on-demand gas generator A self-regulating on-demand gas generator. Generation of gas produced from a reaction is selectively, variably, and spontaneously controlled. A variable volume liquid chamber in communication with the pressure pot allows the volume of liquid reactant in the pressure pot to be varied. The amount of product gas generated in the pressure pot depends on the degree of contact between the solid-like reactant and the liquid reactant. The pressure of the product gas regulates the level of liquid in the pressure pot and thereby regulates the degree of contact between the solid-like reactant and the liquid reactant. A sealed gas chamber sharing a flexible diaphragm with the liquid chamber controls the expandability of the liquid chamber. Manipulating the pressure in the sealed gas chamber or the volume of the liquid reactant affects the pressure at which contact by the reactants will be initiated or terminated and thereby provides the ability to control the reaction.
US08323362B2	Combustion modifier and method for improving fuel combustion A composition for improving the combustion efficiency of an internal combustion engine. The composition includes a mixture of a hydrocarbon fuel and an organometallic soap selected from among several cerium-containing and ferric compounds. The cerium-containing compound or compounds increase the energy released during combustion of the fuel. The ferric compound or compounds coat an interior wall of a combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine to increase the power output of the engine by reducing the accumulation of residues deposited on the interior wall which interfere with the combustion of fuel.
US08323356B2	Sulfonimines as bleaching activators Agent for lightening keratinic fibers, particularly human hair, wherein the agent contains, in a cosmetic carrier, at least one oxidizing agent chosen from hydrogen peroxide and/or a solid addition product thereof with organic or inorganic compounds, and at least one sulfonimine of formula (I)—
US08323354B2	Instrumented prosthetic foot The present invention discloses an instrumented prosthetic foot for use with an actuated leg prosthesis controlled by a controller, the instrumented prosthetic foot comprising a connector to connect the instrumented prosthetic foot to the leg prosthesis, an ankle structure connected to the connector, a ground engaging member connected to the ankle, at least one sensor for detecting changes in weight distribution along the foot, and an interface for transmitting signals from the sensor to the controller.
US08323352B2	Method for treatment and prevention of parastomal hernias A method and device for preventing or treating parastomal hernia is provided. The method can include positioning a graft material between a rectus sheath and a rectus abdominus muscle surrounding a stoma.
US08323349B2	Textured surfaces for orthopedic implants A bearing surface having increased wear resistance. Generally, certain aspects of the present invention are directed to an implant design based on concepts of unidirectional load application and the use of engineered surfaces to increase the amount of lubricant at the bearing surface, to thereby reduce wear of the bearing surface. Surfaces of certain bearing surface embodiments are fabricated to maximize lubricant retention, encourage lubricant entrainment, and/or restrict lubricant escape from the bearing surface. Preferably, when used in orthopedic applications, such bearing surfaces are optimized based on the unique characteristics of human biomechanical loading.
US08323348B2	Bone implants This invention relates to a bone implant that includes a bioinert substrate covered with a ceramic layer containing a plurality of indentations. The total surface area of the indentations is 30-70% of the total surface area of the ceramic layer. This invention also relates to a method of preparing such a bone implant. The method includes: (1) affixing a ceramic layer on the surface of a bioinert substrate; (2) forming a plurality of indentations in the ceramic layer, wherein the total surface area of the indentations is 30-70% of the total surface area of the ceramic layer; and (3) immobilizing a biopolymer onto the ceramic layer via covalent bonding.
US08323345B2	Anterior lumbar interbody fusion cage device and associated method The disclosure relates to a cage device for performing spinal fusion, including, in some embodiments: a housing defining one or more ports that is selectively disposed in an intervertebral space between adjacent vertebrae; one or more extensible retention structures that are selectively advanced out of the housing through the one or more ports and into one or more endplates of the adjacent vertebrae; and one or more actuation mechanisms for selectively advancing the one or more extensible retention structures out of the housing through the one or more ports and into the one or more endplates of the adjacent vertebrae.
US08323344B2	Expandable spinal prosthesis A device is disclosed for insertion in the human or animal body in order to increase the spacing between adjacent spinous processes of the spinal column. The device comprises a plurality of shaped members which are pivotally joined to each other and arranged around a central screwed rod which is supported by a collar at one end and a threaded collar at the opposite end said collar and collar being located within the pivoting axis of the adjacent members forming each end of the device. Following insertion in the body and positioning between adjacent spinous processes the device may be deployed by rotation of the central screwed rod in order to achieve the desired separation of adjacent spinous processes while at the same time providing a secure location of the device in the deployed condition.
US08323339B2	Methods of manufacturing a delivery system for promoting bone growth A method for manufacturing a delivery system that includes a bone growth promoting material encapsulated within a water-absorbing, water-gelatinizable covering used to promote bone growth in order to repair a bone defect and/or strengthen a weakened bone region. The delivery system may be shaped and sized in order to fit within a bleeding wound (e.g., one that is formed in the gingiva when a tooth is extracted). The covering may be formed of a gelatinizable-gauze (e.g., oxidized cellulose) that forms a gel-like material when moistened with water. The delivery system may be stored in a moisture resistant package prior to use.
US08323337B2	Connection systems for two piece prosthetic heart valve assemblies and methods for making and using them A heart valve assembly includes a prosthesis and a prosthetic valve to replace a preexisting natural or prosthetic heart valve within a biological annulus. The prosthesis includes an annular member, a flexible core at least partially defining a sewing cuff extending radially outwardly from the annular member, a rail ring disposed between the flexible core and the annular member, and a plurality of guide rails extending from the rail ring through respective openings in the flexible core. A fabric covering covers the prosthesis, and the guide rails extend through respective openings in the fabric covering. The prosthetic valve includes a frame including receptacles for receiving respective guide rails. After implanting the prosthesis within a biological annulus, the prosthetic valve is advanced along the guide rails until retention elements on the guide rails engage the receptacles to secure the prosthetic valve relative to the prosthesis.
US08323330B2	Stent with compact crimp configuration A stent having a compacted configuration in which adjacent crowns of its undulating rings overlap one another. The overlapping compacted configuration provides for a relatively low profile in view of the coverage that is achieved by the stent upon expansion.
US08323326B2	Catheter device A catheter device having a shaft that extends from a proximal end to a distal end to carry on its distal end a self-expanding implant for intraluminal advance on a guidewire and delivery of the implant to an implant site by proximal withdrawal of a longitudinal sheath that lies radially outside the implant in the catheter, the catheter including a first shaft element to pull the sheath proximally and a second shaft element to push the implant distally to prevent the implant moving proximally with the sheath when the sheath is pulled proximally, wherein the sheath is freely rotatable with respect to the first shaft element during the said intraluminal advance and, during proximal movement, is caused to abut the first shaft element at an abutment position by a reduced inner diameter portion of the sheath proximal of the abutment position.
US08323323B2	Implants for creating connections to tissue parts, in particular to skeletal parts, as well as device and method for implantation thereof Implants (7) for forming a positive connection with human or animal parts include a material, such as thermoplastics and thixotropic materials, that can be liquefied by means of mechanical energy. The implants (7) are brought into contact with the tissue part, are subjected to the action of ultrasonic energy while being pressed against the tissue part. The liquefiable material liquefies and is pressed into openings or surface asperities of the tissue part so that, once solidified, the implant is positively joined thereto. The implantation involves the use of an implantation device that includes a generator (2), an oscillating element, and a resonator (6). The generator (2) causes the oscillating element to mechanically oscillate, and the element transmits the oscillations to the resonator (6). The resonator (6) is used to press the implant (7) against the tissue part to transmit oscillations to the implant (7).
US08323320B2	Transcorporeal spinal decompression and repair system and related method A system and method are provided for making an access channel through a vertebral body to access a site of neural compression, decompressing it, and repairing the channel to restore vertebral integrity. System elements include an implantable vertebral plate, a guidance device for orienting bone cutting tools and controlling the path of a cutting tool, a bone cutting tool to make a channel in the vertebral body, a tool for opening or partially-resecting the posterior longitudinal ligament of the spine, a tool for retrieving a herniated disc, an implantable device with osteogenic material to fill the access channel, and a retention device that lockably-engages the bone plate to retain it in position after insertion. System elements may be included in a surgery to decompress an individual nerve root, the spinal cord, or the cauda equina when compressed, for example, by any of a herniated disc, an osteophyte, a thickened ligament arising from degenerative changes within the spine, a hematoma, or a tumor.
US08323318B2	Flexible tie fastening system The present invention relates to an instrument for tensioning a flexible tie (14) used for fastening an implant on a bony element of a patient by forming a first loop around the bony element. Said instrument comprises: a rod (42) having a first end provided with bearing means (44) for bearing against said implant; a moving part (46) that is movable in translation and that surrounds said rod (42) over a fraction of its length, said moving part including holder means (50) for holding the end of said tie; and control means (52) mounted on said moving part (46) to cause the moving part to move relative to said rod, thereby tending to move the first end (42a) of the rod away from said moving part, thereby exerting tension on said tie relative to said implant.
US08323314B2	Surgical fastener An electrosurgical system is provided and comprises a fastening device including a cartridge configured to retain a plurality of fasteners therein and an anvil configured to form the plurality of fasteners; a plurality of surgical fasteners loaded in the cartridge, at least one of the fasteners includes a backspan, a pair of legs depending from the backspan, and at least one contact pad fabricated from an electrically conductive material on the backspan, wherein at least one of the pair of legs is configured to contact the at least one contact pad upon a formation thereof; and an indicating circuit associated with the fasteners, the indicating circuit including an electrical conduit in electrical contact with the at least one contact pad, wherein the indicating circuit includes an energy source and an indicator, wherein the indicator activates upon one of a proper and improper formation of the fasteners.
US08323313B1	Surgical incision and closure apparatus with integrated force distribution Apparatus for closing a surgical incision include a base having left and right panels, a force distribution structure coupled to each panel, and a closure component which releasably attaches to the force distribution structure to draw the inner edges of the panels together in order to close adhered tissue edges. The force distribution structures allow the inner edges of the panels to expand while restraining expansion of the outer edges of the panels and limiting elongation of the lateral dimension of the panels. The incision closure apparatus may be placed on skin or other tissue prior to forming the incision to be available to close said incision at the end of the surgical procedure.
US08323309B2	Adjustable left atrial appendage implant Disclosed is an adjustable occlusion device for use in a body lumen such as the left atrial appendage. The occlusion device is removably carried by a deployment catheter. The device may be enlarged or reduced to facilitate optimal placement or removal. Methods are also disclosed.
US08323300B2	Tissue anchorable devices A device for treating GERD is provided. The device includes a device body capable of at least partially preventing reflux of stomach content to the esophagus while enabling flow of esophageal content around said device body and into the stomach.
US08323299B2	Device for preparing tissue for anastomosis A device and method for preparation of a graft and a fastener for coupling to a vessel. The device includes a tubular body with a gripping head at a distal end to grip the graft and the fastener. The graft is threaded through the fastener and an edge of the graft out of the fastener. The gripping head has at least three segments arranged around its axis. The segments can be brought closer or pushed away from each other to modify the external diameter of the head and to provide firm gripping of the fastener and the graft. The device further includes a pliant tongue which may rotate around the tubular body. Radial positioning of the tongue may be controlled and the tongue may slide axially towards or away from the head.
US08323296B2	Ring used in a small pupil phacoemulsification procedure A ring that can maintain a pupil in an extended position during an ophthalmic procedure. The ring has a plurality of loops that capture iris tissue. The ring is configured to extend the pupil when iris tissue is inserted into each loop. An ophthalmic procedure such as phacoemulsification can then be performed on the patient. The ring has a center opening that provides a wide view of the ocular chamber during the procedure.
US08323294B2	Tether tensioning instrument Various methods and devices are provided for tensioning a tether. In one embodiment, a tether tensioning device is provided and includes a tensioning mechanism adapted to couple to a tether extending along a path between at least two bone anchors implanted in adjacent vertebrae. The tensioning mechanism can be adapted to apply a tensioning force to the tether along the path of the tether to thereby move the tether along the path. The device further includes an actuation mechanism movably coupled to the tensioning mechanism such that the actuation mechanism is adapted to effect movement of the tensioning mechanism to control the tensioning force applied to the tether.
US08323293B2	Tack or drive screw for securing a prosthesis to bone and associated instrumentation and method The present invention relates to a surgical method or procedure for securing a prosthesis to bone. More particularly, the present invention relates to (i) a surgical method or procedure for securing a low load bearing prosthesis such as, for example, an adhesion barrier, to a patient's bone, (ii) a tack or drive screw for securing the low load bearing prosthesis and (iii) associated instrumentation for driving the tack or drive screw into the patient's bone.
US08323288B2	Customized patient-specific bone cutting blocks A number of orthopaedic surgical instruments are also disclosed. A method, apparatus, and system for fabricating such instruments are also disclosed.
US08323285B2	Method for manufacturing a surgical saw blade with a blade head and raised boss around which the blade head pivots In a method of assembling a surgical saw blade assembly with an blade bar that contains an oscillating head, the blade bar is formed from opposed plates. One of the plates is punch stamped to define a boss around which blade head pivots. The plates are secured to one another in a series of steps in which spaced apart sections of the plates are welded together.
US08323280B2	Medical ablation system and method of use Cartilage and other tissues are treated by generating a plasma in an interior space of a probe and exposing the tissue to the plasma. The plasma is released through a gap in a working end of the probe.
US08323279B2	System, method and apparatus for electrosurgical instrument with movable fluid delivery sheath An electrosurgical instrument with a movable fluid delivery sheath assembly for variable fluid supply during surgical procedures is disclosed. The instrument comprises at least one active electrode and at least one return electrode, positioned on the instrument distal end. The sheath assembly has an outer sheath that is external to the instrument shaft, to provide a lumen. The sheath assembly lumen is axially movable between first and second positions relative to a fluid delivery element, for varying target site treatment and fluid delivery. In the first position the shaft distal end is axially distal to a leading edge of the sheath assembly. In the second position the sheath assembly distal leading edge is positioned axially adjacent or distal to the end of the shaft. The fluid delivery element comprises an inner lumen extending through at least a portion of the shaft, and at least one port extending radially through the shaft. The port is in communication with the inner lumen. A fluid supply source provides fluid through the port, sheath lumen and inner lumen.
US08323275B2	Laparoscopic port with microwave rectifier A radiation detector disposed on a microwave antenna assembly to receive unintended field exposure in an insufflated abdomen. The radiation detector includes a receiving antenna made up of at least two pieces of metal externally attached to the microwave antenna within the abdomen. The radiation detector is adapted to receive errant microwave energy that resonates in the abdomen. A rectifier is coupled between the two pieces of metal, where the pieces of metal are strips, rings, patches, or other geometric combinations. The rectifier is adapted to rectify at least a portion of the errant microwave energy. A filter is coupled to the rectifier and is adapted to convert the rectified microwave energy into a detection signal. An inflatable stop is located on a distal end of the microwave antenna and the inflatable stop is inflated when inserted within the abdomen. The inflated stop prevents inadvertent removal of the microwave antenna.
US08323274B2	Ablation catheter arrangement and cooling control An apparatus for cooling ablation catheters via a coolant pump and liquid cooling medium controlled by a controller based on a characteristic state for an activity of a catheter and in addition a system that uses the apparatus for ablation of tissue in a human or animal body. The system includes an elongated ablation catheter, an ablation generator electrically connected to the catheter to generate a high-frequency energy pulse or a high-frequency energy field, the coolant pump connected to the catheter and the controller and a control line connected to the pump. The control line comprises an electric circuit designed to detect a high-frequency pulse or a high-frequency field.
US08323271B2	Sterile surgical tray A sterile surgical tray includes structure for receiving a plurality of surgical instruments, a pump fluid reservoir within the tray, a pump contained within the sterile tray and connected to the pump fluid reservoir, and a motor contained within the sterile tray and connected to the pump. Sterile surgical tray 10 also may include electrical input and output connectors attached to tray.
US08323269B2	Metronomic convection enhanced delivery of intrathecal chemotherapy using an implanted magnetic breather pump (MBP) for leptomeningeal carcinomatosis A magnetically controlled pump is implanted into the cerebrospinal fluid of a patient and delivers a plurality of medicating agents at a controlled rate corresponding to the specific needs of the patient. The current invention comprises a flexible double walled lumen, intratumoral catheter which will be implanted. Spinal fluid drawn from the patient is analyzed. Medication is delivered on a continuous metronomic basis into the CSF via an internalized pump. CSF is removed and analyzed for VEGF and other cytokines via spectrophotometer analysis or a lab on a chip. The operation of the apparatus and hence the treatment is remotely controlled based on these measurements and displayed through an external controller.
US08323262B2	Self-contained medical applicators for multiple component formulations, and methods of use thereof Certain aspects of the invention relate to an applicator, and methods of use thereof, which can house multiple component formulations in separate material receptacles, which can then be easily reconstituted at time of use without any assembly by the user. A device of the invention can be used for, but is not limited to, applying hydrogel formulations to dura mater, abdominal tissue in hernia repair, tissues near the spine, lung tissue, intestinal tissue, and any of the internal tissues. A device of the invention can be configured to apply a spray or a stream of liquid formulation onto a surface to be treated. A device of the invention can be configured to deliver the formulation through an endoscope or laparoscope.
US08323261B2	Methods of accessing an intramural space Devices and methods for the treatment of chronic total occlusions are provided. One disclosed embodiment comprises a method of facilitating treatment via a vascular wall defining a vascular lumen containing an occlusion therein. The method includes inserting an intramural crossing device into the vascular lumen, positioning at least the distal tip of the crossing device in the vascular wall, advancing an orienting device over the crossing device such that an orienting element of the orienting device resides in the vascular wall, inserting a re-entry device, and re-entering the true vascular lumen.
US08323258B2	Quiet adhesive fastening system for a disposable absorbent article A quiet fastening system that includes a silicone-based adhesive. The silicone-based adhesive is applied to an engaging member or receiving member of the fastening system. The engaging member and receiving member are releasably joined to engage the quiet fastening system. When disengaged, the quiet fastening system exhibits a noise level of less than 15 dB. The quiet fastening system also exhibits desirable Shear Hang Time and Peel Force.
US08323257B2	Absorbent articles comprising a slow recovery stretch laminate and method for making the same An absorbent article may comprise a topsheet, a backsheet joined with the topsheet, an absorbent core interposed between the topsheet and backsheet; and a slow recovery stretch laminate. The slow recovery stretch laminate may be joined to one or more article elements selected from the group consisting of the topsheet, the backsheet, the core, an anal cuff, an elasticized topsheet, a fastening system, a leg cuff, a waist elastic feature, a side panel, an ear, and combinations thereof. The slow recovery stretch laminate may exhibit an unload force at 37° C. of about 0.16 N/(g/m) or greater and a percent of initial strain after 15 seconds of recovery at 22° C. of about 10% or greater. And, the slow recovery stretch laminate may comprise an elastic member that was pretreated prior to and/or during draw down of the elastic member.
US08323255B2	Bowel management system A bowel management system includes a waste collection catheter having at least two distinct sections. The first section is patient proximal when disposed in the patient's rectum and has durometer hardness in the range of about 50 A to about 90 A. The second catheter section is connected to the first section and has durometer hardness in the range of about 5 A to about 49 A. A selectively collapsible, substantially spherical retention balloon is attached coaxially and exterior of the first catheter section such that the proximal-most end of the retention balloon is coincident to the proximal-most end of the first section of the waste collection catheter, the substantially spherical retention balloon having an inflated size so as to be sufficiently large enough to retain the patient proximal end of the catheter in the patient's rectum without being so large as to trigger a defecatory response in the patient.
US08323250B2	Adhesive patch systems and methods Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to patches for medical devices. In various embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may have selective areas with adhesive material of varying adhesion strengths. In other embodiments, an adhesive patch of a medical device may include adhesive material that may be activated by a catalyst to increase or decrease the adhesion strength of the adhesive material. In further embodiments, a medical device may include a pierceable membrane containing an agent, the pierceable membrane positioned to be pierced by a needle and to cause some of the agent to be carried to the user-patient.
US08323248B2	Medical fluid delivery system A medical fluid delivery system is provided including a steerable, guide catheter, a delivery catheter adapted for deployment at a targeted tissue site using the steerable guide catheter, the delivery catheter including a proximal port, a distal port, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ports; a distal fixation element coupled to the delivery catheter so as to position the distal port adjacent the targeted tissue site; and a flexible hollow needle adapted to be advanced through the delivery catheter lumen, the flexible needle including a tissue-piercing distal tip for extending from the distal port of the delivery catheter for advancement into the targeted tissue site and a proximal end for extending from the proximal port of the delivery catheter through which a medical fluid is delivered.
US08323244B2	Catheter malfunction determinations using physiologic pressure Methods and systems for determining whether an implanted catheter used to deliver fluids to a selected internal delivery site is malfunctioning. The malfunctions may include that the infusion section of the catheter is not located at or has migrated away from the selected internal delivery site, is leaking, is blocked, etc. The determination is made by analyzing the pressure modulation of fluid within the catheter and determining whether the pressure of the fluid in the catheter is modulated by physiologic pressure changes experienced at the selected internal delivery site. The physiologic pressure modulations at the selected internal delivery site may be caused by, e.g., cardiac activity, respiration, changes in patient's posture, etc.
US08323243B2	Device and method for opening blood vessels by pre-angioplasty serration and dilatation of atherosclerotic plaque An intravascular device can comprise a carrier and an expansion apparatus. The device can be used for intravascular treatment of atherosclerotic plaque. The carrier can be reversibly expandable and collapsible within a vessel and can have ribbon strips extending between opposite ends in a longitudinal direction of the carrier. The ribbon strips can each be formed with a plurality of elongated protrusions thereon. The expansion apparatus can be used to actuate the ribbon strips each with the plurality elongated protrusions to pierce a luminal surface of the plaque with lines or patterns of microperforations which act as serrations for forming cleavage lines or planes in the plaque.
US08323242B2	Non-compliant medical balloon having a longitudinal fiber layer A non-compliant medical balloon is formed with a first fiber layer including a first fiber and a second fiber layer over said first fiber layer. The first fiber is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the non-compliant medical balloon.
US08323240B2	Interventional catheter assemblies and control systems An interventional catheter assembly has an operating head and catheter system that are inserted and navigated within a patient's body while an operator controls the system externally of the operating head. Fluidic communication is provided between the operating head and the external system controls, and rotation is provided to the operating head by means of an external drive system. Numerous system controls are provided, along with various operating systems, sealing assemblies, actuators, torque transfer systems, and the like are provided. Some systems and controls are provided in a control pod and some controls, as well as displays, are provided in a console unit. Control pod, catheter system and operating head may be provided as a sterile, single use interventional catheter system, while the console unit may be provided as a multiple use device that communicates with the sterile, single use interventional catheter system during operation.
US08323239B2	Fixed dimensional and bi-directional steerable catheter control handle An apparatus for imparting a tensile force to deflect a distal portion of a catheter while maintaining its exterior dimensions may include a handle grip including a cross-section of generally predetermined exterior dimensions, and a longitudinal axis. A flexible elongate member may include proximal and distal end portions, with the proximal end portion being coupled to the handle grip. An adjustment knob may include a cross-section of generally predetermined exterior dimensions, and is rotatably coupled to the handle grip around the longitudinal axis. An elongate deflection member may be operably coupled to the adjustment knob and to the distal end portion of the elongate member. Rotation of the adjustment knob may impart a tensile force to the deflection member thereby causing the distal end portion of the elongate member to deflect from a prior configuration while maintaining the generally predetermined exterior dimensions of the handle grip and the adjustment knob.
US08323236B1	Animal breast pump device The animal breast pump device provides an extraction mechanism having a cylindrical horizontal T section having a first end spaced apart from a second end with a bottom male thread disposed downwardly on the T section, a cylindrical plunger pump disposed on T section first end, a cylindrical union removably disposed on the T section male thread, a suction funnel removably and threadably disposed on the union, a flexible retainer disposed centrally within the suction funnel, and a bottle having an upwardly disposed female thread, the female thread removably fitted to the T section bottom male thread.
US08323230B2	Methods and devices to accelerate wound healing in thoracic anastomosis applications A long term oxygen therapy system having an oxygen supply directly linked with a patient's lung or lungs may be utilized to more efficiently treat hypoxia caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The system includes an oxygen source, one or more valves and fluid carrying conduits. The fluid carrying conduits link the oxygen source to diseased sites within the patient's lungs. A collateral ventilation bypass trap system directly linked with a patient's lung or lungs may be utilized to increase the expiratory flow from the diseased lung or lungs, thereby treating another aspect of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The system includes a trap, a filter/one-way valve and an air carrying conduit. In various embodiments, the system may be intrathoracic, extrathoracic or a combination thereof. A pulmonary decompression device may also be utilized to remove trapped air in the lung or lungs, thereby reducing the volume of diseased lung tissue. A lung reduction device may passively decompress the lung or lungs. In order for the system to be effective, an airtight seal between the parietal and visceral pleurae is required. Chemical pleurodesis is utilized for creating the seal and various devices and/or drugs, agents and/or compounds may be utilized to accelerate wound healing in thoracic anastomosis applications.
US08323227B2	Tip configurations for a multi-lumen catheter Multi-lumen catheters with improved tip configurations, including a triple-lumen catheter which may be useful for apheresis. In one variation, the catheter has three lumens with distal openings angularly spaced apart and staggered axially with respect to one another. In another variation, the catheter has two lumens exiting distally and one centrally positioned lumen exiting proximally. A third variation is a catheter with a single distal opening and two proximal openings. The staggered lumen openings along the axial length of the catheter may decrease recirculation while maximizing flow rates.
US08323224B2	Ankle foot orthosis Disclosed is an ankle foot orthotic device for assisting a user during gait. The device comprises: a foot support having a shape and size configured to the plantar aspect of a user foot, the foot support having a forward portion and a rearward portion and a heel plate coupled to an upper surface of the rearward portion. The device further comprises: an upper rod having a longitudinal axis and a lower end connected to an offset and a lower rod having: a longitudinal axis; a lower end connected to the heel plate; and an upward end connected to the offset.
US08323218B2	Generation of proportional posture information over multiple time intervals The disclosure describes techniques for generation of proportional posture information over multiple time intervals. The techniques may include obtaining posture state data sensed by a medical device for a patient during delivery of therapy by the medical device, determining durations for which the patient occupied each of a plurality of posture states based on the posture state data, generating proportional posture information for a plurality of different time intervals based on the durations, wherein the proportional posture information for each of the time intervals indicates proportional amounts of the respective time interval in which the patient occupied the posture states, and presenting the proportional posture information to a user via a user interface.
US08323217B2	Methods to size a gastric pouch Methods to size a gastric pouch. In at least one embodiment for measuring the size of a gastric pouch of the present disclosure, the method comprises the steps of introducing a catheter into an esophagus, the catheter comprising an outer elongate tube, an inner elongate tube disposed within the outer elongate tube, a proximal balloon attached to the outer elongate tube, a distal balloon having a first end attached to the outer elongate tube and a second end attached to the inner elongate tube, at least two detection electrodes positioned on the outer elongate tube between at least two excitation electrodes, and a pressure transducer positioned on the outer elongate tube, locating the gastroesophageal junction using the proximal balloon, adjusting the distal balloon axially to a desired balloon length, injecting a fluid into the distal balloon to extend the distal balloon circumferentially, and determining a size variable of the gastric pouch.
US08323216B2	System and method for applied kinesiology feedback Applied kinesiology method and device utilizes an examiner's autonomic response to truth/false or beneficial/non-beneficial stimulus and provides immediate feedback to the examiner in the context of an applied kinesiology exam. Kinesiology glasses detect local pupillary response to truthfulness locally and remotely. Through measurements of the pupils dilation or constriction and processing of the measurements, the response is obtained and feedback, via sensory stimulation, is provided to the examiner that reflects the pupillary response. The device and method effectively eliminate the subjective components of prior art muscle testing response from the hands of the testing examiner.
US08323215B2	Bending resistant male connector for a guide wire During use there is a risk that a male connector for a guide wire is bent. With the present male connector (1) more material with high modulus of elasticity can be provided inside the male connector (1), which makes the male connector (1) more bending resistant. The male connector (1) comprises a core wire (3), a plurality of conductive members (4) spaced apart longitudinally along said core wire (3), a plurality of conductors (5) disposed along the core wire (3), each of the conductors (5) being connected to a respective conductive member (4). The core wire (3) has such a shape that least one longitudinal cavity is provided, which longitudinal cavity remains substantially intact when the male connector (1) is bent, thereby protecting the conductors (5), which are disposed in said cavity, from being damaged.
US08323213B2	Quantitative and qualitative analysis apparatus for measuring the body fluid A quantitative and qualitative analysis apparatus of a body fluid serves as a replacement of a Foley catheter and a urine bag connected The analysis apparatus is capable of automatically measuring the volume of a body fluid (urine volume) and specific constituents in a body fluid (urine and blood) in a real time mode and is capable of outputting the measurement results with ease, thereby promoting the efficiency of human resource management so that medical staff may be able to make a quick diagnosis on the current state of the patient based on the provided data and thus, take all necessary measured to improve the patient's condition at proper time.
US08323208B2	Neurologic monitoring system and method A method, system, and products that allow for accurate localization, virtual depiction, and testing of nerve(s) or neural structures that course through or around a proposed surgical site are described. The method and system employs a variety of types of neurodiagnostic tests that incorporate sensory, motor, and mixed nerve conduction studies in an orthodromic and antidromic fashion as well as utilizing triggered electromyography. This method, system, and products allow for a much more specific and sensitive method to assess the baseline function and continued integrity of nerves and neural structures prior to, during, and after a surgical procedure.
US08323207B2	Method and device for measurement of exhaled respiratory gas temperature An apparatus for the measurement of exhaled respiratory gas temperature during free voluntary tidal breathing, comprises a housing 1 defining a chamber, an air inlet 2 for receiving a stream of exhaled respiratory gas and an air outlet 4 for permitting escape of exhaled respiratory gas from the chamber to outside of the housing. A tube having inner and outer surfaces, is located within the housing and extends from the air inlet into the chamber provides a passageway through which the stream of exhaled respiratory gas may travel from the air inlet in to the chamber. A temperature sensor 6 is located within the housing for measuring the temperature of exhaled respiratory gas. The air inlet, temperature sensor and air outlet are configured such that in use the stream of exhaled respiratory gas traveling within the housing contacts with at least part of the inner surface of the tube when the respiratory gas is traveling upstream of the temperature sensor and contacts with at least part the outer surface of the tube when the stream of respiratory gas is traveling downstream of the temperature sensor.
US08323205B2	System and method for identifying a potential cause of pulmonary edema A method of identifying a potential cause of pulmonary edema is provided. The method includes obtaining one or more impedance vectors between predetermined combinations of the electrodes positioned proximate the heart. At least one of the impedance vectors is representative of a thoracic fluid level. The method also includes applying a stimulation pulse to the heart and sensing cardiac signals of the heart that are representative of an electrophysiological response to the stimulation pulse. The method further includes monitoring the cardiac signals and at least one of the impedance vectors with respect to time to identify the potential cause of pulmonary edema.
US08323202B2	Method and system for measuring pulmonary artery circulation information Minimally invasive systems and methods are described for measuring pulmonary circulation information from the pulmonary arteries. A transbronchial Doppler ultrasound catheter is advanced through the airways and in the vicinity of the pulmonary artery. Doppler ultrasound energy is sent through the airway wall and across the pulmonary artery to obtain velocity information of blood flowing through the artery. The velocity information is used to compute pulmonary circulation information including but not limited to flowrate.
US08323200B2	Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus A PSK modulator 20 applies digital modulation processing to an RF wave supplied from an RF wave oscillator 22, by means of phase shift keying (PSK) based on a periodical signal sequence supplied from a pattern generator 24, to thereby generate a continuous wave. The continuous wave output from the PSK modulator 20 is delayed in delay circuits 26I and 26Q and is then supplied, as a reference signal, to each of mixers of a receiving mixer 30. Each of the delay circuits 26I and 26Q delays the continuous wave by a delay amount in accordance with a depth of a target position and outputs a delayed reference signal. Thus, demodulation processing is performed with a correlation between a reception signal from the target position and the reference signal being enhanced, and Doppler information from the target position is selectively extracted by a Doppler information analyzing unit 44.
US08323197B2	Blood flow measuring and evaluating apparatus Means for measuring and evaluating a dynamic property of a blood flow in a superficial blood vessel of a living body are constructed.A physical stimulus is given to the blood flow, and an ultrasonic response from the blood flow to the physical stimulus is measured and evaluated, which allows the blood property to be evaluated noninvasively and dynamically. Therefore, a medical check and a lifestyle-related diseases prevention effect are promising.
US08323194B2	Detection of bubbles during hemodynamic monitoring when performing automated measurement of blood constituents Example embodiments of the present invention provide methods and apparatuses that enable the detection of bubbles so that hemodynamic performance can be assured following an automated blood analyte measurement. An example apparatus according to the present invention comprises a blood access system, adapted to remove blood from a body and infuse at least a portion of the blood back into the body. The infusion of at least a portion of the blood back in to the body can be done in a manner to assure that no bubbles of clinical significance are injected into the patient. Additionally an example embodiment can assess for the presence of bubbles in the fluid column that can affect hemodynamic monitoring performance. If a condition exists where hemodynamic monitoring performance cannot be assured, an example embodiment can provide appropriate warning or corrective actions.
US08323191B2	Stressor sensor and stress management system A stressor detection system (100) comprises sensor means (101) arranged for being attached to a person for obtaining a time-varying signal representing a physical quantity relating to an environment of the person, and processing means (102) for deriving a stressor value from the obtained signal representing a degree to which the environment is inducing stress in the person. The processing means is arranged for deriving an amount of complexity comprised in the signal, and for deriving a higher stressor value for a larger amount of information. The processing means is further arranged for performing a spectral frequency analysis of the signal and for deriving the stressor value also in dependence on the spectral frequency analysis. The sensor means comprises a microphone (105), a camera (104), and a tri-axial accelerometer.
US08323189B2	Health monitoring appliance A heart monitoring system for a person includes one or more wireless nodes; and a wearable appliance in communication with the one or more wireless nodes, the appliance monitoring vital signs.
US08323188B2	Health monitoring appliance A heart monitoring system for a person includes one or more wireless nodes forming a wireless network; a wearable sensor having a wireless transceiver adapted to communicate with the one or more wireless nodes; and a software module receiving data from the wireless nodes to detect changes in patient vital signs.
US08323187B2	Noninvasive medical device and method operable in a limited amount of time through a deliberate human motion A method, system, and apparatus of a medical device powered by deliberate human motion for limited use are disclosed. In one embodiment, a medical device includes a motion module to sense whether a deliberate human motion is convertible to an electric current to power the medical device, a power module to convert the deliberate human motion to a limited use electric current that enables the medical device to operate during a limited cycle of time, and an energy storage module to store the limited use electric current converted from the deliberate human motion. The medical device may include a power sensing module to determine whether a threshold amount of energy has been generated. The medical device may also include a sensor of the motion module to sense whether the deliberate human motion is convertible to the limited use electric current by permitting a physical object to oscillate.
US08323186B2	Device for facilitating the medical examination of an orifice A device for facilitating the examination of an orifice includes a mount for a light source for illuminating the orifice, a connector for detachably mounting a dilator for insertion into and dilation of an orifice, and an actuator for operating a mounted dilator. The mounted dilator includes operative parts able to move apart from one another.
US08323182B2	Endoscope and system and method of operation thereof An endoscope including a rigid section having opposed first and second ends and an opening situated between the first and second ends, the rigid section defining a longitudinal axis; a handle portion coupled to a first end of the rigid section and having first and second scissor-type handles suitable for grasping by a user; and a base part situated at the second end of the rigid section and coupled to the first handle of the scissor-type handles such that displacement of the first handle causes a rotation of the base part.
US08323181B2	Endoscope with variable incident light and laser source platform Endoscope and method comprise a micro endoscope with insertion end that is about 1-2 millimeters in outer diameter and includes an optical fiber image bundle, two optical laser fibers, two illumination source optical fiber bundles, along with three focusing lenses for image bundle and laser fibers. Insertion end may be inserted in a female milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ to inspect for cells and lesions. Visual inspection is aided by the use of special mixtures of light sources to observe the distinction between normal and abnormal cells. If abnormal cells or lesions are detected and the surgeon decides cells or lesions are non-cancerous, the surgeon may then use endoscope to precisely burn, ablate, or otherwise kill abnormal cells at their point of origin on the milk duct, other body cavity, or internal organ. The procedure is minimally invasive and much less costly than many other similarly functioning medical procedures.
US08323177B2	Imaging and evaluating embryos, oocytes, and stem cells Methods, compositions and kits for determining the developmental potential of one or more embryos or pluripotent cells and/or the presence of chromosomal abnormalities in one or more embryos or pluripotent cells are provided. These methods, compositions and kits find use in identifying embryos and oocytes in vitro that are most useful in treating infertility in humans.
US08323171B2	Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a human or other mammalian body. In some embodiments, a flexible brachytherapy device is implanted that includes a therapy delivery portion having one or more radioactive sources securely retained thereto, and a tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion. Once implanted, the tail portion may extend outside the body, where it may be folded and secured flat against the skin. The device may be removed at therapy completion. Other embodiments of the invention are directed to systems and methods for delivering brachytherapy devices to the body.
US08323170B2	Swing bucket centrifuge rotor including a reinforcement layer A centrifuge rotor is provided. The rotor includes a compression-molded rotor body that includes a central hub defining an axis of rotation of the rotor body, and a plurality of bays, each configured to receive a bucket therein. A plurality of load transferring members are integrally molded with the rotor body and each include a bucket support for supporting a bucket, with the bucket support permitting pivoting movement of the bucket during centrifugation of the rotor body about the axis of rotation. A reinforcement layer extends circumferentially and/or helically around an exterior of the rotor body.
US08323168B2	Centrifugal separator with venturi arrangement The invention describes a self-powered centrifugal separator comprising a base, a rotor mounted on an operably substantially vertical axis for rotation thereabout by reaction to fluid emission from rotor nozzles therein, a housing mounted on the base and enclosing the rotor, a sump formed in the base below the rotor, a fluid passageway through the base extending from an inlet port to an outlet port and including a diversion port to supply fluid to the interior of the rotor by way of the rotation axis, a drain passage in the base for draining fluid from the sump to the fluid passageway, and a venturi arrangement provided in the fluid passageway in the base to develop suction pressure to draw fluid from the drainage passage into the fluid passageway, whereas a spring loaded valve body is provided in the fluid passageway, said body being configured and arranged to shut off supply of fluid to the interior of the rotor when pressure of fluid entering the inlet port falls below a predetermined minimum pressure value and also to restrict and/or shut off supply of fluid to the interior of the rotor when pressure of fluid entering the inlet port rises above a second predetermined pressure value.
US08323163B2	Positioning-jig for adjusting a face plate A positioning-jig 42 is cylindrical shape and chamfered at the top side; wherein a bottom side inner diameter of the positioning-jig 42 is larger than outer diameter of the marking-member 12, and the bottom side outer diameter of the positioning-jig 42 is same or slightly smaller than the through-holes 20 belongs to the face plate 15.
US08323158B2	Exercise apparatus using weight and pneumatic resistances An exercise apparatus combines weight and pneumatic resistance to provide a user with options to work against either or both types of resistances. In one mode, the exercise apparatus includes a user interface, such as, for example, a weight-lifting bar, that a user can move either toward or away from a stationary portion of the user's body. A weight (e.g., a free weight plate) can be selectively coupled to the user interface. A pneumatic resistance device can also be selectively coupled to the user interface independent of whether the user interface is also coupled to the weight. The pneumatic resistance device includes at least one valve to regulate the amount of resistance that the pneumatic resistance device applies to oppose movement of the user interface in at least one direction. At least one actuator may be provided for controlling the at least one valve, the actuator being configured to be manipulated by the user while the user is in an exercise position. The apparatus can also include a trolley that moves relative to a track. The trolley can move with the user interface so as to permit various positions of the user interface relative to the pneumatic resistance device.
US08323156B2	Leg training equipment A leg training equipment has a base fixed in place, a support portion configured to support a part of a user's body, and a coupling mechanism provided between the base and the support portion. The coupling mechanism movably couples the support portion to the base such that a load applied to a leg of the user by the user's own weight changes by a relative positional displacement between a foot position and a position of center of gravity of the user. In addition, the coupling mechanism limits a movable direction of the support portion such that at least when the load applied to the leg increases, a direction of the relative positional displacement between the foot position and the position of center of gravity is substantially limited to a direction of flexion and extension of knee joint. Thereby, it is possible to efficiently provide the user with an exercise that applies less load on the knee joint.
US08323149B2	Vehicle trajectory control system Systems and methods for controlling a throttle plate to adjust airflow to the engine are provided. A transmission having an input speed and an output speed and including a clutch and a driver-selectable transmission lever is controlled to adjust engine speed to a synchronous speed in a future gear ratio in response to driver foot pedal positions and driver-selectable transmission lever positions.
US08323145B2	Hybrid powertrain optimum ratio selection A transmission control system for a hybrid electric vehicle including an electric machine includes an energy storage device that is selectively charged by the electric machine and that selectively powers the electric machine. A driver input device generates a driver input signal. A control module receives the driver input signal, determines a torque load of the electric machine based on a state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage device and determines a transmission ratio based on the torque load and the driver input signal.
US08323142B2	Multi-speed transmission A multi-speed transmission includes a first input shaft, a second input shaft, a first friction engagement mechanism, a second friction engagement mechanism, a first synchromesh mechanism, a second synchromesh mechanism, and a third friction engagement mechanism. A differential mechanism includes a first rotational element, a second rotational element, and a third rotational element. The first rotational element is coupled to a first countershaft. The second rotational element is coupled to a second countershaft. The third rotational element is coupled to an output member. A third synchromesh mechanism is capable of coupling a driving gear of a first gear train to the first input shaft or is capable of coupling a driven gear of the first gear train to the output member so as to enable power to be transferred between the first input shaft and the output member using the first gear train.
US08323139B2	Vehicle drive device A vehicle drive device includes a case with a case main body portion accommodating the speed change mechanism, and a connection case portion connecting the engine and the case main body portion and having a diameter increased toward the engine; a hydraulic pressure control device that is provided under the speed change mechanism, and controls a hydraulic pressure to be supplied to the speed change mechanism; and an electric pump that generates the hydraulic pressure to be supplied to the speed change mechanism through the hydraulic pressure control device.
US08323137B2	Hydraulic tensioning element for a traction mechanism drive A hydraulic tensioning element for a traction mechanism drive having a cylinder, having an axially movable piston which is guided in the cylinder, a spring element which is arranged between the cylinder and the piston, a pressure space which is formed in the cylinder, and a reservoir, which is formed in the piston, for hydraulic fluid. A valve permits an exchange of the hydraulic fluid between the pressure space and the reservoir as a function of an actuating movement of the piston. The cylinder (2) has a flanged portion (17) which reduces a size of its opening, and a free end of the piston (4) has formed on it an annular section (16) with a diameter which is larger than the piston diameter.
US08323134B2	Transmission controller for continuously variable transmission system A transmission controller for a continuously variable transmission system steadily returns a gear ratio toward the low-ratio range, even after a driving pulley has stopped during sudden deceleration. A control unit is provided which drives an actuator to move a driving-pulley movable half part to a position in the low-ratio range when a vehicle speed sensor detects the sudden deceleration of a body, a pulley number-of-revolution sensor detects stopping of the driving pulley, and then a gear ratio sensor detects that the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission system has not returned to the low-ratio range where a sufficient acceleration is obtainable at the time of restart. Upon detecting a restart, the control unit presses the driving-pulley movable half part onto a V-belt to prevent sliding therebetween and thereby reduce a loss in the transmission of a driving force at the time of restart.
US08323132B2	Detachable apparatus for securing a transmitting device for use with a hunting arrow for tracking game A tracking apparatus for securing a transmitting device onto a target game animal. The tracking apparatus engages with a target and separates the apparatus from the arrow. The apparatus includes a transmitting device for transmitting a signal to a receiving device; a stopping component for detaching the tracking apparatus from the arrow after the arrow collides with the target; and a securing component for securing the tracking apparatus to the target, said securing component including barbs angled towards the rear of the arrow for stopping rebound motion of the tracking apparatus after the arrow collides with the target. In one embodiment, the barbs are reinforced with reinforcing arms. In another embodiment, the securing component includes a torsion spring. In another embodiment, the stopping component includes one or more wings with a front edge facing the front of the arrow that is relatively perpendicular to the axis of the arrow.
US08323130B1	Racquet handle assembly including a plurality of support members A sports racquet including a handle assembly coupled to, and longitudinally extending from, a head portion. The handle assembly includes an elongate tubular shaft, a pallet positioned over the shaft, and a plurality of support members. The pallet defines a plurality of longitudinally extending planar regions and a plurality of longitudinally extending recesses. The recesses are respectively positioned between two of the plurality of planar regions. The support members are positioned within the respective recesses. Each of the support members has an outer surface that forms an elongated corner. The handle assembly has an outer surface that includes a plurality of longitudinally extending flats and a generally polygonal-shaped transverse cross-sectional area. Each of the plurality of planar regions forms at least part of a separate one of the plurality of flats.
US08323128B2	Net frame assembly and anti-rebound system A lightweight sports net frame assembly and anti-rebound system allowing straightforward assembly, enhanced rigidity, expedited replacement of the net and ease in retrieval of objects from the net frame assembly during usage of said assembly. The net frame assembly comprises substantially cylindrical cavities that allow for cables, rods or other tethering means to pass through said cavities and in turn securely fasten within the side frame members. The joints of the frame are comprised of various interlocking pieces, which provide a smooth outer surface at the joints, reinforce the rigidity of the frame and diminish rotational moments on individual segments. A frame stability system is incorporated.
US08323127B2	Sports throwing training device A sports training device is worn by the trainee for developing skill and minimizing risk of injury in pitching, passing, swinging, kicking, and other such sports-related body movements. An illustrative embodiment includes an anchor member adapted for wear on the torso of a trainee, a first tension device coupled between a trainee's arm and the anchor member, and a second tension device coupled between a trainee's leg and the anchor member. The first tension device may include a bendable rod and elastic cord, the bendable rod selectively rotatable to adjust the rod and cord relative to a trainee's shoulder.
US08323122B2	Method of making golf clubs A method for making golf club heads includes using direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), selective laser melting (SLM) and other computer controlled high energy sintering or melting techniques to form club heads with customized user parameters. The powdered metals can be selected by type and quantity to achieve a desired density or weight distribution. Club heads made by these techniques are characterized by having customized parameters chosen for individual golfers. By sintering powdered metal to form areas of different porosity, club heads with desired weight distributions can be achieved.
US08323119B2	Flexible golfing mat A tee-off golfing mat which includes an upper layer and which positions the upper layer on a distance D from a reference layer. The upper layer of the golfing mat provides a platform for teeing-off a golfing ball. At least a part of the upper layer, when exerting a force on the mat during teeing-off, is resilient in height direction of the golfing mat. The resiliency of the golfing mat is caused by magnetic forces.
US08323114B2	Gaming system having movable display dividers A gaming system comprises a wager input device, a display for displaying at least a portion of a wagering game, and a divider overlying the display and dividing the display into at least a first display region and a second display region. An actuator is coupled to the divider, the actuator for moving the divider relative to the display. The system includes a controller operative, in response to a triggering event, to cause the actuator to move the divider from a first position to a second position and thereby alter the size of at least the first display region.
US08323109B2	Session monitoring on gaming machines A method, gaming machine and gaming system is described that provides for session information monitoring. Session information is formed by monitoring play of a game by a player on a gaming machine. At the option of the player of the gaming machine the session information is either combined with session information from another gaming machine, or is not combined.
US08323108B1	Double kick adapter for video game drum machine An electronic apparatus that allows for the connection of a pair of bass drum pedals to a single controller further comprises an electronic circuit housed within an enclosure and provided with two (2) input jacks to allow connection of two (2) standard bass drum pedals from the drum controller used in the video game ROCK BAND® (video game). An output cable is then provided for connection to the drum controller. The electronic circuit accepts the switch closure connections from either pedal and uses an array of electronic components to drive a relay which produces a contact closure. This contact closure is then used to feed the controller. The electronic circuit eliminates the collision and cancellation effects associated with simply combining the pedal closures in parallel. In such a manner, a videogame player can generate a greater number of bass drum pedal actuations in a given period of time by using both feet.
US08323107B2	Method and device for scorekeeping watch A device for monitoring a first player, the device includes: a location unit; a score button; a score calculating unit arranged to: receive a first player score indication, transmit a first player score message to another device that is designed to trigger a first player score alert, determine whether to update a first player score value based on at least zero responses to the first player score message, and update the first player score value based on the determination; a feedback unit arranged to receive a second player score message about an intent of a second player to update a second player score value, generate a second player score alert, and transmit a first player response based on at least zero responses of the first player to the second player score alert; and a display for displaying the first player score value and at least one other player score value.
US08323101B2	Gaming system having tools for pairing wagering games with available progressive games A method of operating a wagering game comprises activating a progressive game having a first set of configuration parameters and providing a primary wagering game having a second set of configuration parameters. The method further comprises comparing the first set of configuration parameters with the second set of configuration parameters to determine, in accordance with at least a first rule set, if the primary wagering game can be activated and paired with the progressive game. The method further displays results from the comparing step.
US08323099B2	Associating portable wagering game machines with a stationary wagering game machine Embodiments of a portable wagering game machine and a stationary wagering game machine are described herein. In one embodiment, a plurality of portable wagering game machines are associated with a stationary wagering game machine. Group wagering game data is displayed on the stationary wagering game machine. The group wagering game data includes wagering content for viewing by multiple players. At each of the plurality of portable wagering game machines, individual wagering game data is displayed. The individual wagering game data and the group wagering game data relate to a wagering game.
US08323087B2	Reduced power consumption wager gaming machine A wager gaming machine having software and components allowing for automatic powering on and off (also referred to as remote out-of-band power control) bypassing the need for human operator intervention is described. The gaming machine has a master gaming controller and a network interface. The interface includes an input port supporting a TCP/IP connection which can be used by another network component having the gaming machine's IP address. The gaming machine may also include a Web server operating on the input port. The Web server may receive HTTP messages on the input port even when the gaming machine is powered off. Thus, the machine is capable of receiving an HTTP message at the input port instructing the machine to power on. The gaming machine may also contain a manageability engine processor for executing an active management system software component. This component implements the Web server on the gaming machine.
US08323085B2	Method and apparatus for increasing potential payout opportunities in card games Systems, apparatuses and methods for increasing potential payout opportunities using multiple card indicia representing multiple cards. One embodiment involves determining whether any one or more of a plurality of cards of a draw poker hand are to be randomly provided with multiple card indicia representing multiple cards, presenting the plurality of cards of the draw poker hand, including the one or more of the plurality of cards determined to be randomly provided with multiple card indicia, facilitating user identification of which of the plurality of cards to hold, replacing the cards that are not held, and identifying a plurality of resulting hands, each of the plurality of resulting hands including a different subset of a total of the indicia of the cards that were held, the cards that were replaced, and any cards provided with multiple card indicia.
US08323084B2	Gaming machine that navigates dealer in game advancement The present invention provides a gaming system that can allow a game to be appropriately advanced even by an inexperienced dealer by way of navigating the dealer in game advancement, thereby allowing fraud to be avoided and cost to be reduced. A gaming system 1 gives an instruction to a dealer by operating indicators of card placement areas in which a card is to be placed based on a game advancement program. When a card is placed in a predetermined card placement area, the gaming system 1 reads at least one face of the card being placed by image input devices and determines whether the card is placed in a right place and a right orientation and whether the card is appropriate. After that the abovementioned processing is repeated for a predetermined number of times, a score is calculated based on image data and finally a game result is output.
US08323082B2	Game device, recording medium and game control method A game device which executes a baseball game where a batter character hits a ball object that is pitched by a pitcher character stores, for each batter character, first evaluation information showing an evaluation of battering power in each segment showing a region within a strike zone, and displays the region of the strike zone corresponding to respective segments after increasing transparency, as divergence from the first reference data of the first evaluation information increases, based on the first evaluation information of the batter character at bat.
US08323080B2	System and method for stunning poultry with gas System and method for controlled atmosphere stunning of chickens or turkeys in a batch mode is provided. The disclosed method includes the steps of: loading one or more batches of chickens or turkeys in a stunning chamber and sealably enclosing the stunning chamber to isolate the atmosphere therein. Carbon dioxide is then introduced to the isolated atmosphere in a series of three, four, five or more phases to humanely stun and eventually kill the poultry. The carbon dioxide containing atmosphere is subsequently forcibly exhausted from the stunning chamber and the ranks of cages or modules containing the stunned poultry are advanced to a subsequent processing station such as a tipper or dumping station.
US08323073B2	Method for discontinuous profile grinding A gear grinding tool can be trued and re-profiled. The geometry of the individual profiles in the direction of the tool axis is designed so that at least more than two, preferably all, flanks of the tool are used for rough machining of the work piece flanks, and that during finishing the re-profiled flanks provided only for roughing are set back far enough so that during finishing they do not come into contact with the work piece flanks.
US08323072B1	Method of polishing transparent armor A method of polishing transparent armor, preferably to optical clarity. The method can be used on flat or contoured armor, manually or via robotic automation. The method includes using a step-wise progression of diamond, structured abrasive articles.
US08323071B2	Method of polishing the inner peripheral end surfaces of substrates for a recording medium using a brush There is provided a method of polishing the inner peripheral end surfaces of disk-like substrates for a recording medium using a brush comprising, providing a plurality of pieces of disk-like substrates having circular holes at the central portion thereof; bringing a polishing material slurry containing a polishing material into contact with the object to be polished; inserting a polishing brush into the circular hole of the object from a first side of the object to be polished, and rotating the polishing brush with the shaft as a center to polish the inner peripheral end surfaces of the substrates; and inserting the polishing brush into the circular hole of the object to be polished from a second side opposite to the first side and rotating the polishing brush with the shaft as a center axis to polish the inner peripheral end surfaces of the substrates.
US08323069B2	Toy vehicle track set with rotatable element An indexing stunt selector for a toy vehicle track set is provided. The indexing stunt selector may be disposed along a toy vehicle track and includes a first stunt element disposed in the vehicle pathway to cause a toy vehicle to perform a first stunt, where performance of a first stunt results in actuation of a first stunt trigger. The indexing stunt selector further includes a second stunt element adapted to be automatically disposed in the vehicle pathway following actuation of the first stunt trigger.
US08323065B2	Organic electro-luminescence display device and manufacturing method thereof An OLED device is disclosed. The OLED device includes a first substrate including a driver element and a connection electrode connected to the driver element, a second substrate including an organic light emission diode element, a contact spacer electrically connected to the connection electrode, and a sealant disposed into a cavity which is formed by the first and second substrates, the connection electrode, the organic light emission diode element, and the contact space. Herein, the sealant is bonded to the contact spacer and the connection electrode and maintains the electric connection between the contact spacer and the connection electrode. In this manner, the driver element and the organic light emission diode element are protected from external oxygen and/or moisture, and the electric connection between the connection electrode and the contact spacer is reinforced. Accordingly, the contact defect between the connection electrode and the contact spacer can be prevented and the structural strength of the OLED device can be greatly improved.
US08323063B2	Watercraft drive A surface drive that includes a shaft housing; a propeller; a propeller shaft that passes through the shaft housing with the propeller mounted at an end of the propeller shaft; and mounted to the shaft housing is at least one of a container, wherein a self-locking or automatic locking pitch change mechanism that is configured to adjust a propeller blade of the propeller is partially located in the container, or a propeller ventilation unit that is configured to direct exhaust gas to or away from the propeller based on a travel condition of the surface drive.
US08323061B2	Miniature receptacle terminals This approach generally pertains to a miniature terminal receptacle (10) with a connection section (12) and a mating section (14). The mating section has a pseudo- two-beam component that includes a contact spring (20) having a stationary beam, a resilient contact beam (24) and a beam overlapping section (26). The resilient contact beam has a contact bump (40) and a stiffening section (30) with a pivotal point (38). The shape of the contact spring increases the contact engagement or holding force on a male pin during mating. Overstress protection of the contact spring is provided and the terminal is economical to produce.
US08323055B2	Plug-in connector for connecting to a coaxial cable A cable assembly includes a coaxial cable and a plug-in connector. The cable has inner and outer conductors and an insulation layer between the conductors. The connector has first and second tubular components. The first tubular component is inserted between the insulation layer and the outer conductor at a free end section of the cable and the second tubular component is connected to the first tubular component and encloses the outer conductor whereby the plug-in connector is connected to the cable. The second tubular component forms a sleeve that opens toward the free end section of the cable.
US08323053B2	Connector having a constant contact nut A connector comprising a connector body attached to a post, the post including a first end portion and an opposing second end portion, and a flange proximate the second end portion, a port coupling element rotatably attached to the post, wherein the port coupling element has a first end and a second end, and a plurality of openings on the port coupling element, the plurality of openings extending a distance toward the first end from the second end of the port coupling element. Furthermore, a method of maintaining ground continuity in a connector comprising the steps providing a connector body attached to a post, the post having a first end, an opposing second end, and port coupling element having a plurality of openings positioned thereon, and biasing the port coupling element in a position of interference with the post is also provided.
US08323049B2	Electrical connector having power contacts An electrical power connector is provided that is configured to mate with a complementary electrical connector. The electrical power connector includes a connector housing that retains both electrical signal contacts and electrical power contacts. The electrical power connector includes an engagement assembly that includes 1) at least one polarization member configured to mate with a polarization member of the complementary electrical connector only when the electrical power connector is in a desired orientation relative to the complementary electrical connector, and 2) a securement member configured to releasably engage a securement member of the complementary electrical connector.
US08323048B2	Conduit connector with two housings for connection to flexible conduit A conduit connector adapted to connect to flexible electrical conduit has a first housing with a front portion adapted to engage a front portion of a second housing. The front portion of the first housing comprises a cavity adapted to contain a first portion of an electrical connector assembly, while the front portion of the second housing comprises a cavity adapted to contain a respective second portion of the electrical connector assembly. The conduit connector further may include one or more sealing elements to prevent the intrusion of dust, debris or containments.
US08323047B2	Cordset assembly An extension cordset assembly includes a receptacle and a sealing gasket. The receptacle includes a receptacle main body, a receptacle connecting interface and first and second spade mating holes extending into the receptacle main body from the receptacle connecting interface. The receptacle is configured to mate with a plug having a standard spade configuration. The sealing gasket is positioned on the receptacle connecting interface and includes first and second spade openings aligned with the first and second spade mating holes, respectively. The sealing gasket is configured to provide a water-resistant seal between the receptacle and the plug.
US08323046B1	Bi-directional CPA member to prevent unmating of multiple connectors A ganged electrical connection system includes a plurality of first connectors matable to a plurality of second connectors along mating axes, and a connector position assurance (CPA) member. The CPA member includes a plurality of tabs and a plurality of release fingers. The plurality of first connectors include a plurality of lock arms and the plurality of second connectors include a plurality of inclined ramps. The plurality of tabs receive the plurality of lock arms and the plurality of inclined ramps deflectingly engage said plurality of release fingers to allow movement of the CPA member in to a position of the CPA member, that when disposed in the position, keeps the plurality of second connectors from unmating from the plurality of coupled first connectors. Methods of fabricating an electrical connection system and a ganged electrical connection system that include the CPA member are also presented.
US08323039B2	Contact element The invention concerns a contact element (10) with a sliding contact element (11) for fitting flush against an electrically conductive rail and a support element (12) for connecting the sliding contact to a contact plug (13), which serves as a connector to an electric conductor, wherein the sliding contact element, the support element, and the contact plug are parts of a molded part which is constructed as a single unit.
US08323033B2	Methods and systems for demonstrating differences between and benefits of products Disclosed are methods and systems of demonstrating advantages and benefits of premium animal care products, the methods comprising the steps of: presenting a first demonstration aid wherein the first demonstration aid demonstrates a first feature or characteristic; presenting a second demonstration aid wherein the second demonstration aid demonstrates a second feature or characteristic; describing to an audience the first feature or characteristic; describing to an audience the second feature or characteristic; and comparing the first and second features or characteristics to demonstrate the advantages and benefits of the animal care product. The methods and systems can include methods and systems of demonstrating reduced hair ingestion and hairball related effects; methods and systems of demonstrating improvements in skin and coat; and methods and systems of demonstrating better absorption and/or retention of food and nutrients, and production of less waste.
US08323032B2	Obstetrics simulation and training method and system An embodiment of the invention provides a method wherein a simulation system having a simulator, a processor, and at least one display is assembled. This includes assembling a birthing mannequin and a mobile cart having at least one touch-screen monitor, wherein the birthing mannequin includes a means for shaking to simulate a generalized seizure. The simulation system is provided along with documentation to a plurality of medical facilities within a system. Training on use of the simulator, different simulations, and criteria for grading performance on the simulations is also provided. The training includes team training for conducting the simulations using the simulation system.
US08323031B2	Auscultation training system and related methods An auscultation training device that utilizes a medical training mannequin, a controller, and a database of auscultation training sound data to simulate and communicate the sounds of the human body to users; the invention is able to initiate the playback of prerecorded sounds via a variety of trigger mechanisms, and transmit live sounds, or combinations of sounds, to remote examiners.
US08323030B2	Heart compression simulation device A heart compression simulation device featuring a base with a compression spring; an actuator atop the compression spring that can move between an extended and fully compressed position; two pedestals atop the base opposite each other; actuator prongs on the actuator facing each pedestal; a hub attached to each pedestal that can pivot between a disengaged position and engaged position; leaf springs disposed on each hub adapted to engage the actuator prongs when the hubs are in the disengaged position and the actuator is moved to the fully compressed position, which causes a cracking sound to be produced; and a lock-out mechanism for securing the hubs in the engaged position keeping the leaf springs out of range of the actuator prongs, the lock-out mechanism is activated when the actuator is moved to the fully compressed position.
US08323029B2	Medical physiological simulator including a conductive elastomer layer Conductive elastomeric circuits are used in various simulated physiological structures such as tissues and organs, enabling feedback to be provided indicating whether a simulated task is being performed correctly. For example, a surgical trainer has a simulated human tissue structure made of an elastomeric composition, at least one reinforcing layer of a fibrous material, and at least one flexible electrical circuit. The surgical trainer preferably includes multiple areas for practicing surgical skills, each with evaluation circuits for providing feedback regarding that skill. Conductive elastomers are also incorporated into other types of medical training simulators, to similarly provide feedback. In another embodiment, a simulated organ has a conductive elastomeric circuit in the periphery of the simulated organ, enabling feedback to be provided to evaluate whether a person is properly manipulating the organ in response to a manual applied pressure.
US08323025B2	System and method for automatic driver evaluation Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for automatic driver evaluation of a person's driving capabilities and render an outcome of pass or fail without the need for a trained observer to evaluate driver's performance. In one embodiment, the automatic driver evaluation system facilitates the display of a predetermined driving route designed for a predetermined demography, observe simulated driving performance of a user on the predetermined driving route, record errors made by the user while performing the simulated drive, and compare the performance errors to at least one threshold value and generate a score based on the comparison.
US08323022B2	Instant dental bridge The instant dental bridge is one used in surgical operations in areas of missing teeth between abutment teeth includes: an artificial tooth or teeth (2) formed with slots (6) in recessed parts near to the gum; a connecting body (1) which has through holes (3) formed in positions corresponding to the slots (6) and projections joined onto the abutment teeth, and of which the entire surface, except the surfaces (5′) in contact with the abutment teeth, is covered by the artificial tooth (2) or by the same material as the artificial tooth; and wires (8) for securing the abutment teeth and the connecting body (1) to each other, by being wound through gaps (7) neighboring the abutment teeth and through the slots (6) and the through holes (3).
US08323021B2	Dental bilatetal bite block A sheet of material having a central body portion with attached wings capable of folding towards each other on either side. The wings of the bite block fold toward each other along fold lines adjacent the central body portion and provide a structure for biting down upon for propping the mouth of a patient open during a dental procedure. A mirrored surface may be placed on the central body portion for improving visibility in the mouth. The bite block also holds or retracts the tongue and cheeks away from a work area in the mouth. The wings protect the cheeks as well as provide improved visibility within the mouth. Additionally, moisture control within the mouth is improved. The bite block may be made inexpensively and is disposable.
US08323020B2	Machine for manufacturing a spray head A fluid spray head comprising an expulsion channel provided with a spray orifice (1) and a spray profile (10) formed in an end wall of said expulsion channel, said spray profile (10) comprising non-radial spray channels (11) opening out to a central spray chamber (12) disposed directly upstream from said spray orifice (1), the central axis (X) of said spray orifice (1) being offset from the central axis (Y) of the spray chamber (12) by a distance that is less than 0.12 mm, and preferably less than 0.08 mm.
US08323010B2	Expander-compressor unit An expander-compressor unit (200) includes a closed casing (1), a compression mechanism (2) disposed at an upper position in the closed casing (1), an expansion mechanism (3) disposed at a lower position in the closed casing (1), a shaft (5) coupling the compression mechanism (2) to the expansion mechanism (3), and an oil pump (6) disposed between the compression mechanism (2) and the expansion mechanism (3). The oil pump (6) supplies the oil held in an oil reservoir (25) to the compression mechanism (2) via a suction passage. A strainer (65) is provided to the suction passage so that the oil to be drawn into the oil pump (6) passes through the strainer.
US08323002B2	Heat dissipation device and fan assembly thereof A heat dissipation device includes a heat sink, a cooling fan, an electric motor and a belt. The cooling fan includes a fan housing and an impeller. The impeller includes a hub, a plurality of fan blades and a shaft extending from the hub and having a distal end protruded out of the fan housing. A fan pulley is fixed to the distal end of the shaft. The electric motor includes a driving pulley. The belt has one end engaging with the driving pulley of the electric motor and an opposite end engaging with the fan pulley of the cooling fan. Rotation of the driving pulley of the electric motor is transferred to the fan pulley via the belt to cause the impeller to rotate.
US08322994B2	Effervescent gas bleeder apparatus A diaphragm metering pump suitable for metering an effervescent gas. The pump has a pump head with a product chamber having an inlet end with a one-way inlet valve and an outlet end with a one-way outlet valve. A displaceable diaphragm member defines a boundary of the product chamber. The diaphragm member is capable of being reciprocated to cause pumping displacements. A discharge side is disposed downstream from the outlet valve. A passageway is disposed in fluid communication between the discharge side and the product chamber. A valve is disposed in the passageway. The valve is opened intermittently to allow liquid to re-enter the product chamber in an amount effective to purge gas from the product chamber to prevent loss of prime.
US08322990B2	Vibration damper A vibration damper (28) is disclosed for use in a turbomachine, the turbomachine comprising at least one turbine rotor (19) having a plurality of radially extending blades (16, 17). Each blade has an aerofoil (22), a platform (21) and a stem (20). The vibration damper (28) has a seal-region (29) which comprises a pair of sealing surfaces (24, 25) configured for engagement with respective contact surfaces (24, 25) provided on adjacent blade platforms (21). The vibration damper (28) also has a mass-region (30) which is configured to extend radially inwardly from the seal-region (29) and to terminate at a position located between adjacent blade stems (20) (FIG. 4).
US08322987B2	Cooling arrangement With regard to cooling turbine blades in a gas turbine engine a compromise has to be made between convective cooling within the inner cavity defining a flow path for coolant and the blow rates for developing film cooling on an outer surface of the aerofoil. By providing a chamber between the flow cavity and external apertures reconciliation between the necessary flow rates for convective cooling within the cavity defining the pathway for coolant flow within the aerofoil and the necessary coolant blowing rate for film development can be achieved.
US08322986B2	Rotor blade and method of fabricating the same A method of fabricating a rotor blade is provided. The method includes forming at least one passageway within the rotor blade, wherein the passageway extends substantially radially from a root of the rotor blade to a tip of the rotor blade, and coupling a shroud to the tip of the rotor blade. The shroud includes at least one substantially radially-outward extending wall that at least partially defines an outer plenum that is radially outward from at least the shroud, wherein the outer plenum is in flow communication with the passageway.
US08322985B2	Wind turbine generator A wind turbine generator in which the temperature in a rotor head can be managed is provided. The wind turbine generator 1 includes, in a nacelle 3, a driving and generating mechanism that is connected to a rotor head 4 equipped with wind turbine blades 5, and devices are disposed inside the rotor head 4, wherein a rotary joint 30 is interposed on a driving shaft that joins the rotor head 4 and the nacelle 3, and fluid for regulating the temperature in the rotor head is supplied from the interior of the nacelle 3 into the rotor head 4 through the rotary joint 30.
US08322983B2	Ceramic matrix composite structure A composite structure (10), which may be a 2-dimensional ceramic matrix composite material, may include a first body (30) made of a composite material defining a first in-plane direction, a second body (20) made of a composite material defining a second in-plane direction wherein the first body (30) is connected with the second body (20) so that the first in-plane direction is substantially normal to the second in-plane direction. The second body (20) of the composite structure may include a first leg (24), a first bolting surface (22) extending from the first leg (24) and at least one aperture (56) formed in the first bolting surface (22) substantially normal to the second in-plane direction. A first recess (32) may be formed within the first body (30) sized to receive the first leg (24).
US08322981B2	Aircraft fluid diversion inlet louver An inlet system, including for an auxiliary power unit includes an inlet louver mounted to an inlet duct, the inlet louver defines a multiple of vanes positioned to shield the inlet duct from fluids which fall in direction generally transverse to a free stream airflow.
US08322978B2	Exhaust-driven turbocharger for a motor vehicle An exhaust-driven turbocharger for a motor vehicle includes at least one of a variable turbine and a compressor geometry, a vane-mounting ring with guide vanes mounted rotatably thereon and a guide vane cage. The guide vane cage forms at least part of a flow duct and at the same time a mount for the vane-mounting ring. The guide vane cage is supported by spacer elements while creating an axial gap on a housing of the exhaust-driven turbocharger such that hot gas selectively flows behind the guide vane cage. Also, the guide vane cage is clamped between the turbine housing and the mounting housing of the exhaust-driven turbocharger without fixedly connecting the guide vane cage to either one of the two housings.
US08322977B2	Seal structure for preventing leakage of gases across a gap between two components in a turbine engine A seal structure is provided for preventing leakage of gases across a gap between first and second components in a turbine engine. The seal structure is adapted to be received in first and second adjacent slots provided in the first and second components. The seal structure may comprise: a wear resistant layer; and a deformable layer defined by a material having one of a varying density and a varying porosity.
US08322976B2	High temperature seal for a turbine engine A turbine includes a static member, a moveable member fluidly connected to the static member, and a flexible seal. The flexible seal includes a spring component having a base section mounted to one of the static member and the moveable member of the turbine and a plurality of biasing members. Each of the plurality of biasing members includes a first portion extending from the base section and a cantilevered portion. The flexible seal further includes a seal component provided on the cantilevered portion of each of the plurality of biasing members. The seal component is biased into contact with the other of the static member and the moveable member.
US08322974B2	Fan module with vibration-resistent mounting A fan module includes a cooling fan, a support rack, and four fasteners fixing the cooling fan to the support rack. The fasteners are vibration-resistant material, and are disposed between the support rack and the cooling fan, and below the cooling fan.
US08322969B1	Loader assembly and method providing for cantilevered storage of lift arms The front end loader and method of the present invention provides front end loader lift arms that may be removed from an implement, such as a bucket, and secured to the bucket in a cantilevered position for storage of the lift arms. Connections on the implement and lift arms allow the lift arms to be securely interconnected with connections on the bucket without the use of tools or pins so that the center of gravity of the lift arms is above the bucket. The lift arms may then be removed from a utility vehicle. In this storage position, the lift arms are stored and maintained in a secure position so that they may later be easily and quickly reattached to the utility vehicle.
US08322968B1	Fork lift for trucks, methods, and associated devices A fork lift for a truck may have at least one mounting beam for pivotally supporting a fork lift mast on a truck frame. The mounting beam may be mounted in a bed of the truck via other structural members and bolts that extend through the members, bed, and truck frame. The fork lift may extend well below a level of the truck bed to enable engagement of palletized loads resting on the ground by the forks of the fork lift. The fork lift may have hydraulics including pumps, solenoids and motors that may be supported in a tool box that also helps to secure the mounting beam. An electric over hydraulic control system enables remote control from within the cab of the truck. Fork position during stabbing of a pallet may be viewed on a monitor in the cab, with the monitor operatively connected to one or more cameras.
US08322959B2	Self-boring screw A self-boring screw (2) having a boring section (6) attached to the free end of the screw shaft (4), two vanes (12) radially protruding from the boring section, the edges of the vanes facing toward the boring tip (8) of the boring section (6) being configured as boring blades (13). The boring section (6) includes a chip discharge zone (14) that is configured such that the edges of the vanes (12) facing toward the boring tip (8) forms a cutting point (S) with a boring radius (16), the cutting point having a distance (A) to the screw shaft (4) that is at least ⅔ of the cutting edge length of the bore tip (8). The chip discharge zone (14) makes it possible that the chips produced by the boring blade (10) at the boring tip (8) can be discharged freely and without buildup. The material cut by the boring blade (10) is conveyed as chipped material away from the boring tip (8) in the direction of the cutting point (S) at a lower vane connection (15) as a result of the rotational motion of the screw (2), thus ensuring unhindered chip discharge. It is possible to compress the chips to be discharged to a maximum of ⅔ of the cross section occurring after the cut. This ensures that even critically sized chips are removed without blocking the discharge of chips from the area of the boring section (6).
US08322958B2	Fasteners with conforming sleeves A sleeve interference fastener including a conformable sleeve, wherein the conformable sleeve is comprised of at least one first material having a hardness of X, and a pin member, wherein the pin member is comprised of at least one second material having a hardness of Y, wherein X is sufficiently less than Y so that, in an installed position of an interference fit, at least a portion of the at least one first material of the conformable sleeve conforms to a contour of an inner surface of a hole of a composite structure so as to create a continuous electrical contact at an interface between the inner surface of the hole of the composite structure and the conformable sleeve.
US08322944B2	Trench drain with sloping rails A modular trench drain system with sloping overlay rails. A non-sloping section of trench drain is transformed into a sloping trench drain by installing sloping overlay rails. The overlay rails rest on the top of the upper edge of the sidewalls and may have a ledge which allows grating, which spans across the channel, to rest on top. The modular channel sections may be held together and in place by a channel bracket with holes for accepting support rods which further secure the channels in place before and after the concrete has been poured and cured around the channels.
US08322943B2	Transportation system for zero-emissions vehicles, rider propelled vehicles, and pedestrians A transportation system for rider propelled vehicles, zero-emission vehicles, and pedestrians is disclosed. The system includes pathways (517, 317, 717, 519, 119, 319, 719, 919, 523, 123, 323, 723, 923, 525, 325, 725) that are integrated into a building structure (101) or a series of building structures (100, 300, 500, 700, 900) connected by bridges (34, 35, 36, 37, 30, 31, 32, 33) which have an overall downward sloping grade. Elevators (515, 520, 522, 527, 115, 120, 122, 127, 315, 320, 322, 327, 715, 720, 722, 727, 915, 920, 922, 927) are utilized to transport riders, vehicles, and pedestrians to the integrated pathway.
US08322942B2	Interlocking connector system A connector system includes two connector members that can each be mounted to separate objects and then interlocked together to attach the two objects together. In one embodiment, the two connector members are identical and interchangeable with each other. In other embodiments, the two connector members are arranged to attach together objects having perpendicular mounting surfaces or coplanar mounting surfaces. The connector members include an alignment structure having a projection positioned between a first pair of inclined surfaces, and a receiver structure positioned between a second pair of inclined surfaces. The connector members are interlocked together by mating the alignment structure of one connector member with the receiver structure of the other connector member. The relative movement between the connector members causes the inclined surfaces of one connector member to wedge against the inclined surfaces of the other connector member to form a tight and strong connection.
US08322937B2	Thermochromic writing instrument A thermochromic writing instrument contains a thermochromic ink, wherein a writing body 8 is accommodated in a barrel 2 movably in a longitudinal direction, an operation portion 5 is provided on the outer surface of the barrel 2, and a pen tip 81 of the writing body 8 is constituted so as to be projectable/retractable from/into a front-end hole 31 of the barrel 2 by operating the operation portion 5. The thermochromic ink 83 is contained in the inside of the writing body 8, the pen tip 81 capable of ejecting the thermochromic ink 83 is provided at the front end of the writing tool, and a friction portion 4 capable of thermally changing the color of the handwriting of the thermochromic ink 83 by the frictional heat generated when the handwriting is rubbed with the friction portion 4 is provided on the outer surface of the barrel 2.
US08322934B2	Camera device and drive mechanism A drive mechanism (1) of a camera apparatus includes a worm gear (4) to which a rotational driving force of a drive motor (2) is transmitted, a worm wheel (6) around which a helical gear (5) is formed to engage with the worm gear (4), and a support frame (7) which supports the worm wheel (6) rotatably and movably along a rotation axis. A rotational driving force of the worm gear (4) is transmitted to the worm wheel (6) with reduced gear ratio. An externally threaded portion (10) of a shaft portion (8) of the worm wheel (6) is engaged with an internally threaded portion in a supporting hole (14) of the support frame (7), so that the shaft portion (8) moves along the rotation axis when the worm wheel (6) rotates. Consequently, the rotational driving force transmitted to the worm wheel (6) is converted into a linear thrust force along the rotation axis. This makes it possible to provide a camera apparatus which can develop a larger thrust force and adjust an amount of travel more finely.
US08322928B2	Pitch bearing for wind turbine rotor blades A pitch bearing for a wind turbine rotor comprises a rotor hub and at least one rotor blade, the pitch bearing comprising a cylindrical inner bearing ring connectable to a rotor blade of the wind turbine rotor, a cylindrical outer bearing ring connectable to the rotor hub of the wind turbine rotor and an annular reinforcement section for reinforcing the outer bearing ring. The annular reinforcement section adjoins the cylindrical outer bearing ring at its radial outer surface.
US08322926B2	Piping bag, blank for manufacturing a piping bag and method of manufacturing a piping bag Example embodiments relate to a disposable piping bag, having a container of polymer film. The piping bag may be made essentially from a thin-walled polymer tube, and an outwardly oriented surface of the piping bag may be provided with a rough surface structure. The rough surface structure may have the form of a pattern of raised dots or grooves presenting a surface friction coefficient which may be higher than that of the polymer film.
US08322917B2	Method for testing a heat pipe and corresponding test device The operational reliability of a heat pipe 200 provided for carrying heat dissipated by an electronic component 101 to a heat exchanger 300 is tested by using the heat pipe in the reverse direction, by providing energy in the form of heat at the exchanger 300, and by measuring the propagation time ΔP of the heat from the exchanger to the electronic component. Application to heat pipe tests in onboard computers.
US08322916B2	Thermal expansion compensator for liquid-filled watches A watch comprises a case, an electronic movement module inside the case, a piece of closed-cell foam inside the case, and a dielectric liquid filling the remaining voids of the interior of the case. The closed-cell foam compensates for thermal expansion of the dielectric liquid over a wide range of operating temperatures. Upon heating, the liquid expands and the foam is compressed. Upon cooling, the liquid contracts and the foam is decompressed.
US08322913B2	Method of mixing paint by shaking container A plastic container used to hold a dispersion-based paint colorant and capable of dispensing the colorant into paint dispensing machines, comprising an open top capable of holding and securing a cap, and having a wide mouth with a diameter of at least 50 mm. The plastic container has a cylindrical body extending below the open top, and a plurality of vertical ribs spaced around the body to strengthen the container.
US08322911B2	Method for preparing a dispersion of water-soluble polymers in water A method for dispersing a water-soluble polymer includes: metering and prewetting polymer with primary water; grinding and draining of the dispersed polymer in a chamber comprising a rotor and a stator; and providing a ring with perforations fed by a secondary water circuit on all or part of the periphery of the chamber for spraying of pressurized water on the blades of the stator.
US08322910B2	Apparatus and method for mixing by producing shear and/or cavitation, and components for apparatus An apparatus and method for mixing by producing shear and/or cavitation, and components for the apparatus are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a mixing and/or cavitation chamber with an element such as an orifice component that is located adjacent the entrance of the cavitation chamber. The apparatus may further include a blade, such as a knife-like blade, disposed inside the mixing and/or cavitation chamber opposite the orifice component. In one version of such an embodiment, the apparatus is configured to be cleaned in place. The apparatus may, be provided with at least one drain in liquid communication with the mixing chamber. If the apparatus comprises a blade, the apparatus may further include a blade holder that is movable so that the distance between the tip of the blade and the discharge of the orifice can be varied. In this or other embodiments, the apparatus is configured to be scalable. In this, or other embodiments, the apparatus is provided with an injector that is movable so that the distance between the discharge end of the injector and the orifice can be adjusted. A process for mixing by producing shear and/or cavitation in a fluid is also contemplated herein.
US08322888B2	Through-the-lens illuminator for optical comparator An illumination system shares portions of an objective of an optical inspection system. A plurality of beam-shaping optics collects light from a plurality of effective light sources and directs the light through a portion of the objective for illuminating an object under inspection. The objective includes a front relay lens, a rear relay lens, and an objective stop disposed between the front and rear relay lenses for collecting light scattered from the object and forming an image of the object with the collected light. The beam-shaping optics, which surround the objective stop, are arranged together with the associated effective light sources for non-uniformly distributing light within a range of angles required for illuminating the object.
US08322881B1	Lighting fixture A light emitting diode (LED) lighting fixture includes a base plate having a front side and a rear side. A plurality of lighting strips is mounted on the front side of the base plate. A reflector is mounted to each of the lighting strips and desirably comprises multi-faceted side walls extending away from the light strip. Driver circuitry and control circuitry are mounted to the base plate, and are electrically coupled to a power supply for powering and controlling the plurality of LEDs. Each of the lighting strips includes a plurality of linearly-arranged LEDs, and each of the light emitting diodes has a diode base and a light emitting portion. The multi-faceted side walls of the reflector cause light produced by the plurality of LEDs to be amplified and formed into a bath or wash of light.
US08322879B2	Multi-wavelength semiconductor laser device A multi-wavelength semiconductor laser device includes a plate stem; a prism shaped submount with a bottom face on a face of the stem; laser diodes having emission wavelengths different from each other are mounted on lateral sides of the submount so that their respective emission points are positioned at substantially the same distance from a center axis of the stem; and lead pins penetrating the stem are located along and opposite edge lines between adjacent pairs of the lateral sides of the submount.
US08322874B2	Lightguides having light extraction structures providing regional control of light output Lightguides, devices incorporating lightguides, and processes for making lightguides are described. A lightguide includes light extractors arranged in a pattern on a surface of the lightguide. The pattern of light extractors is arranged to enhance uniformity of light output across a surface of the lightguide and to provide enhanced defect hiding. The efficiency of the light extractors is controlled by a shape factor. The areal density of the light extractors across the surface of the lightguide may be substantially constant or may decrease along the direction of propagation of light from the light source.
US08322873B2	Lighting system for appliance A lighting system for an appliance is disclosed. In one embodiment, the lighting system includes a light shelf including a substantially planar light guide having a support member for releaseably coupling the light shelf to the appliance, a light injector coupled to a first end the light shelf, the light injector including a substrate having at least one light source disposed thereon and a housing for at least partially enclosing the at least one light source, wherein light emitted from the at least one light source is directed into the light guide, and an end piece coupled to a second end of the light shelf opposite the first end.
US08322870B2	Fast steering, deformable mirror system and method for manufacturing the same A fast-steering, deformable mirror system is configured to manipulate a reflective surface in order to control the reflection of electromagnetic radiation off of the reflective surface. The system is configured to steer the reflective surface as a unit, and also to deform the reflective surface. The system is designed to reduce hysteresis in drive signals that control deformation of the reflective surface, to maintain an overall size and/or footprint of conventional fast-steering, non-deformable mirror systems, and/or provide other enhancements.
US08322867B2	Projector apparatus A projector apparatus includes a housing having an air inlet and an air outlet, a light source device provided in the housing, an image projection unit provided in the housing and configured to emit an image projection light beam so as to project an image onto a screen, and a cooling device configured to cool the light source device and the image projecting unit. The cooling device includes a cooling passage extending from the air inlet to the air outlet, and a fan configured to suck in outside air from the air inlet and to exhaust the outside air passing through the cooling passage, out of the housing from the air outlet. The air filter section includes a cylindrical filter body, a filter support member configured to support the filter body, and a rotating unit configured to rotate the filter support member.
US08322863B1	Apparatus and method for automated visual distortion adjustments for a portable projection device An apparatus and a method are disclosed for automated projection image adjustments for a portable projection device. In one embodiment of the invention, the apparatus periodically polls a tilt sensor inside the portable projection device and uses the tilt sensor reading as a key to a lookup table which stores pre-computed visual distortion adjustment values. Furthermore, the apparatus can also poll a distance measurement sensor to measure a distance between a projector lens and a presumed projection surface periodically. The measured distance value can also be used as an additional parameter to the key for the lookup table to retrieve appropriate visual distortion adjustment values which are pre-computed and stored in the lookup table. The fast pre-computed adjustment value retrieval without real-time computation of graphical transformations to correct the visual distortions minimizes processor load, energy consumption, and processing delays for projection image corrections.
US08322860B2	Projector apparatus and method of controlling the color fluctuation of the light According to one of embodiment, an apparatus for image projecting and a method for controlling color fluctuation of light are acquired the temperatures of a plurality of light sources configured to emit light beams of different colors or the temperature at a position near the light-emitting elements, set an amount of light each of the light sources emits, in accordance with the temperature acquired of the light source, and set at least one of the color and brightness of the image to be projected. The fluctuation of the color or brightness of the image to be projected can therefore be controlled.
US08322859B2	Projector A projector includes: a light source which emits light; a light modulating device which modulates the light emitted from the light source according to image information; an image forming system which forms an image corresponding to the optical image formed by the light modulating device of modulated light which is modulated by the light modulation device at an image forming position; a polarized light emitting unit disposed at the image forming position of the image forming system to selectively convert the polarization direction of a part of entering light; and a projecting device which projects the light from the polarized light emitting unit.
US08322847B2	Liquid droplet ejection system and control program of ejection condition of compositions When using a liquid droplet ejection method, a conventional photomask is not required, however, it is required instead that a moving path of a nozzle or a substrate is controlled with accuracy at least in ejecting liquid droplets. According to the characteristics of compositions to be ejected or their pattern, such ejection conditions are desirably set as the moving rate of a nozzle or a substrate, ejection quantity, ejection distance and ejection rate of compositions, atmosphere of the space that the compositions are ejected, the temperature and moisture of the space, and heating temperature of the substrate. A liquid droplet ejection system in accordance with the invention comprises an input means for inputting data of a thin film pattern, a set means for setting a nozzle for a ejecting a composition containing a material for forming the thin film or setting a moving path of the substrate to which the composition is ejected, an image pick-up means for detecting an alignment marker formed on a substrate and a control means for controlling the moving path of the nozzle or the substrate.
US08322843B2	Inkjet recording apparatus and inkjet recording method An inkjet recording apparatus which ejects an ink so as to record an image on a recording medium has: a conveyance device which conveys a recording medium; a liquid deposition device which deposits a liquid onto a recording surface of the recording medium which is conveyed by the conveyance device; an intermediate conveyance body which moves the recording medium in rotation onto the recording surface of which the liquid has been deposited by the liquid deposition device while holding an edge of the recording medium; a conveyance guide which guides a non-recording surface of the recording medium which is moved in rotation by the intermediate conveyance body; and a pressure application device which applies a pressure differential between the recording surface and the non-recording surface of the recording medium which is moved in rotation by the intermediate conveyance body.
US08322829B2	Liquid discharge head substrate and manufacturing method thereof, and liquid discharge head using liquid discharge head substrate and manufacturing method thereof A liquid discharge head substrate includes an electrode layer, which is electrically connected to an element that generates energy used for discharging a liquid and provided in an inner side of a region between a first face and a third face of a substrate, and a member made of resin which covers the electrode is provided in the region.
US08322828B2	Liquid ejection head and liquid jet apparatus A liquid jet head includes: a nozzle plate having a nozzle opening; a pressure chamber substrate having a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle opening and formed above the nozzle plate; a vibration formed on one side of the pressure chamber substrate; and a piezoelectric element formed above the vibration plate and provided at a position corresponding to the pressure chamber, wherein the piezoelectric element includes two electrodes, a piezoelectric layer provided between the electrodes, and an orientation layer that is provided between one of the electrodes closer to the vibration plate and the piezoelectric layer, wherein the orientation layer includes a mixed crystal of lanthanum nickelate, and the lanthanum nickelate included in the mixed crystal is expressed by a formula LaxNiyOz, where x is an integer of any of 1 to 3, y is 1 or 2, and z is an integer of any of 2 to 7.
US08322816B1	Cap design for an inkjet print head with hand-held imaging element arrangement with integrated cleaning mechanism The hand-held printer includes a print module configured for multidirectional printing, a print head in communication with the print module. The print head includes a plurality of nozzle arrays and wherein the nozzles in each of the plurality of nozzle are disposed substantially equidistant from a reference point. The hand-held printer further includes a circular cap configured to rotatably cooperate with the print head, wherein the circular cap cooperates with the print head to define a seal when the circular cap is disposed in a closed position.
US08322815B2	Method of cleaning fluid ejecting apparatus and fluid ejecting apparatus Provided is a method of cleaning a fluid ejecting apparatus including an ejection head including a plurality of ejection nozzles for ejecting a fluid to a target and a common fluid chamber from which the fluid is supplied to the ejection nozzles, the method including: performing a preliminary discharge operation for discharging the fluid from the ejection nozzles before the fluid is ejected to the target; detecting a fluid ejection state of the ejection nozzles after the preliminary discharge operation is finished; determining a processing parameter at the time of cleaning of the ejection head on the basis of the detected result; and performing cleaning with respect to the ejection heads on the basis of the processing parameter, wherein, in the performing of the preliminary discharge operation, the fluid of the amount corresponding to at least the volume of the common fluid chamber is ejected.
US08322813B2	Discharge defect detecting method and discharge defect detecting device A discharge defect detecting device including a sensor that reads image, which has been formed on a medium by moving nozzles relative to the medium in a relative movement direction and discharging a fluid, at a reading resolution lower than the resolution of an image data in the relative movement direction, based on the image data; a standard data forming unit that forms a standard data having the same resolution as the reading resolution in the relative movement direction, based on the image data; and a detecting unit that compares a plurality of the reading data pixels on the same row in the relative movement direction in the data read by the sensor with a plurality of standard data pixels each corresponding to the plurality of the reading data pixels in the standard data, to detect the discharge defects of the nozzles.
US08322811B2	Multi-pass calibration in fixed printhead array printers Methods and apparatus herein provide for automated calibration of multiple printheads used in a multi-pass printing system. Aspects hereof print a plurality of gray scale printed patterns each printed pattern corresponding to a gray scale value for each of the multiple printheads. The printed patterns are then measured to determine the intensity (e.g., optical density) of each of the printed patterns. A measurement function is derived from the measured intensity and gray scale levels used to print each pattern. Calibrated transfer functions are then determined from the measurement function and target function where each calibrated transfer function relates, for a corresponding printhead, an input gray scale level of a pixel in an image to be printed to a calibrated gray scale level to use for the corresponding printhead when operating in multi-pass mode.
US08322809B2	Recording head and recording apparatus using recording head A recording head having a plurality of recording elements that are grouped into a plurality of blocks and ejecting ink by driving the recording elements in a time-divisional manner includes driving units configured to drive the recording elements, an input unit configured to receive an enable signal that defines a period during which the driving of the recording elements is enabled at one ink ejection, and a control unit configured to control the time-divisional driving by the driving units on the basis of pulses detected during the period defined by the enable signal received by the input unit.
US08322806B2	Coding and marking printing system A method and device for coding and marking printing including defining a print image in dot formation of various sizes and locations; determining and providing a set of individual print control instructions for individually controlling a plurality of dot image print head nozzles to form the defined print image at absolute dot positions; and undertaking the individual control instructions to provide a printed image on a printing substrate corresponding to the defined print image, whereby the system allows for calculated adjustment of each dot position without computational limitation during the printing cycle.
US08322802B2	Office furniture system Office furniture system, in particular, a desking system, with various useful features including a display pool, a vertical storage system, a support system for facilitating the distribution of power and data to electrical devices used with the desk system as well to adjacently disposed desks to enable a wide range of multi-desk configurations, and privacy panels. The support system includes a central spine and various ribs for supporting accessory brackets including a tackable binder.
US08322801B2	Housing for an electronic device A housing for an electronic device includes a housing body, a bottom cover, and a locking member. The housing body includes an engaging slot and a through hole. The bottom cover includes an engaging hook for engaging the engaging slot. An inner surface of the housing body or the bottom cover is provided with a positioning element. The locking member extends through the through hole, and includes an engaging portion disposed on the inner surface of the housing body, and a control portion exposed from the through hole. The control portion is operable to move the engaging portion between a locking position where the engaging portion engages the positioning element and an unlocking position where the engaging portion is separated from the positioning element to thereby facilitate assembly and disassembly of the bottom cover to and from the housing body.
US08322800B2	Control system for hydraulic braking system The invention relates to a braking control system for automotive vehicles comprising a braking control member (1), a brake booster (4) and a brake master cylinder (5). The system of the invention further comprises a simulator (3) coupled pneumatically to the piston (42) of the brake booster (4). Said simulator (3) receives at least one braking command from the braking control member (1) and makes it possible to establish, in return, a difference in pressure between the front chamber (40) and the rear chamber (41) of the brake booster so as to control the displacement of the piston (42).Application: Brakes for automotive vehicles.
US08322798B2	Parking brake control unit When a brake force is generated by a service brake in accordance with the depression of a brake pedal by a driver, a brake force generated by an electric parking brake is reduced when lock control is performed, taking the brake force generated by the service brake into consideration. More specifically, a target motor current value increase amount is corrected such that as the brake force generated by the service brake becomes larger, the target motor current value increase amount becomes smaller. Thus, when brake force is generated by the electric parking brake and the service brake compensates for the brake force, it is possible to inhibit generation of a brake force larger than necessary.
US08322797B2	Hydraulic device for actuating the braking of work vehicles and the like A hydraulic device for actuating the braking of work vehicles and the like, comprising a duct for connecting the delivery duct to the discharge duct or to an auxiliary duct, along which there are auxiliary pumping elements, which can be actuated in order to pump pressurized liquid into the feed duct; a one-way valve being provided which allow the liquid to flow along the connecting duct exclusively toward the delivery duct.
US08322791B2	Footrest A footrest for supporting the feet of a user above a floor is disclosed. The footrest comprises a platform having an upper surface for accommodating the feet of the user and a pair of planar portions extending downwardly from said generally flat portion. The platform is coupled to at least one support arm for supporting a portion of the platform in an elevated position relative to the floor. The at least one support arm having a first end dynamically coupled to a fulcrum whereby the support arm is biased towards a first position and moveable towards a second position responsive to a force being applied in use to the upper surface of the platform by the feet of the user.
US08322790B2	Seat assembly having a multi-position head restraint assembly A seat assembly having a seat back, a support post extending from the seat back, and a headrest pivotally disposed on the support post. The headrest has a lower headrest portion, an upper headrest portion extending from the lower headrest portion, and a hinge clip that pivotally couples the headrest to the support post. The headrest is inhibited from pivoting about an axis of rotation in a first rotational direction when the lower headrest portion engages the support post.
US08322785B2	Collapsible articles of furniture Collapsible articles of furniture comprise at least one leg assembly including a first leg and a second leg, each with an upper leg segment and a lower leg segment coupled together by a link. The two links are pivotally connected to each other for movement between an open position wherein the first and second legs cross each other to form a generally X-shaped configuration and a closed position wherein the upper and lower leg segments are aligned, the upper leg section of the first leg receivable within the lower leg section of the second leg and the upper leg section of the second leg is receivable within the lower leg section of the first leg.
US08322782B2	Securing wire harness to a roof liner Generally provided is a roof-liner assembly for attaching a wire harness to a roof liner, the assembly having a wire harness that is attached to a roof liner by a harness clip and a harness-clip base, wherein the harness clip has a substantially closed-loop element that substantially surrounds the exterior surface of a wire-harness longitudinal section, and wherein the harness-clip base is secured to the roof liner.
US08322777B2	Soft top for a motor vehicle, particularly a convertible, comprising a folding roof A top for a convertible vehicle includes a folding roof which can be moved by a top linkage between a closed position in which it can be fixed to a windshield frame and an open position in which it is stowed in a rear side stowage position.
US08322774B2	Motor vehicle A motor vehicle has a luggage compartment located behind a row of seats, which luggage compartment is accessible from above by swivelling up a tailgate. There is provided a swivel-adjustable luggage compartment cover which is pivoted to the motor vehicle in its front end region and is positively coupled to the tailgate by coupling elements in its rear end region, so that opening of the tailgate causes the luggage compartment cover arranged below it to be opened. What is important is that the luggage compartment cover can be removed only when the tailgate is open.
US08322773B2	Recliner mechanism package shelf A recliner mechanism (100) configured for selectively adjusting a seat back in a second row of a vehicle (10), such as a sedan, includes a close out device (200) in the form of an adjustable package shelf (210) of the vehicle (10) to cover a gap between the seat back (20) and the vehicle structure (11) as the seat back (20) is moved from the fully reclined position. This package shelf recliner mechanism (100) further includes a track system (110) mounted relative to the vehicle structure (11), a cross plate (130) coupled to the track system (110) and configured for translational movement relative thereto, a latch system (150) for releasably securing the cross plate (130) and an actuator, such as a handle or lever, for the user to selectively actuate the recliner mechanism (100).
US08322769B2	Multifunction device A multifunction device to be situated within a central console of a motor vehicle has an instrument panel for receiving one or more elements (e.g., display and/or operating elements), the instrument panel being designed as movable and being transferable from a closed position into an open position, the instrument panel being situated within an opening of the central console in the closed position. Furthermore the central console has a storage element, which is situated outside the field of vision of the vehicle occupants in the closed position of the instrument panel and which is freely accessible to the vehicle occupants in the open position of the instrument pane. It is thus possible to provide a multifunction device to be situated within a central console of a motor vehicle, which is particularly easily reachable for the driver of the motor vehicle and simultaneously can increase the possible useful space within a motor vehicle.
US08322765B2	Synthetic sling with component parts having opposing lays A sling for industrial lifting comprising a cover having fibers twisted in a first direction; and a load-bearing core within the cover, the core having a helical twist of a plurality of core strands, each core strand twisted in a second direction.
US08322764B2	Modular long handled tool component system An industrial long handled tool component system is provided having interchangeable tool heads, connectors, handles and grips. The novel connector system provides a polygonal locking bar concentric with a round outer reinforcing collar both engaged by a material connector insert and separated by plastic isolations seals. The novel connector promotes connection integrity and prevents joint movement. An alternate embodiment provides a connector system without the collar to save weight and manufacturing cost.
US08322759B2	Closed container and lid opening/closing system therefor In a pod used in an FIMS system, an engaged portion is provided on the outer surface of the lid of a pod. A through hole is provided in a flange portion that is provided around the pod opening and in which the lid is to be received. The through-hole allows access to the engaged portion from the external space. A latch mechanism is supported on the pod body side surface of the flange portion in such a way that it can slide in a direction parallel to the side wall of the flange. The engagement portion of the latch mechanism reaches the engaged portion through the aforementioned through-hole. Movement of the latch mechanism brings the engagement portion into an engaging state and a disengaged state.
US08322756B2	Disconnectable connector assembly A disconnectable connector assembly is provided, including a first fitting having a movable stem therein, the stem being movable from one end toward the other end of the first fitting; a valve releasably attached to the stem, the valve including legs engageable with a lip; a second fitting connected to the first fitting, the second fitting including the lip, the second fitting being in fluid communication with the stem and the first fitting when the stem is in a first position, and wherein fluid flow between the second fitting and the stem and the first fitting is blocked when the stem is in a second position; the first fitting being disconnectable from the second fitting after the stem has been moved and the valve is released from the stem with the legs engaged with the lip when the first and second fittings are disconnected.
US08322754B2	Nanocomposite coatings for threaded connections Coating systems which provide corrosion resistance and, optionally, lubrication, for threaded connections are disclosed. The compositions comprise a first coating composition comprising polymer matrices of polyimides or epoxies which are modified with small amounts of a fluorine containing polymer. Also present in the coating compositions are corrosion inhibiting agents and inorganic particles having a mean diameter of between approximately 10 nm and 10 μm. Solid lubricants, which may include at least one of PTFE, HDPE, Graphite, and MoS2, are optionally added to provide the first coating with a low coefficient of friction. The coating systems may further comprise a second coating composition, comprising a solid lubricant dispersed within an epoxy resin and a solvent. The first and second coating compositions are deposited on at least a portion of at least one of the pin and box members of the threaded connections.
US08322753B2	Identification medium, identification method, and identification apparatus An identification medium is to be observed via a linearly polarizing filter and includes a first liquid crystal layer that changes the wavelength of light according to the rotational angle of the linearly polarizing filter, a cholesteric liquid crystal layer, and a light absorbing layer that is provided below the cholesteric liquid crystal layer.
US08322752B2	Laser-marking multilayer sheet for electronic passports, and electronic passport There is provided a laser-marking multilayer sheet for an electronic passport formed by laminating five sheets of a multilayer sheet A/a multilayer sheet B/a film C/a multilayer sheet B/a multilayer sheet A. The multilayer sheet B is a colored laser-marking multilayer sheet. The film C is a laser-marking multilayer sheet made of a film for the electronic passport. The laser-marking multilayer sheet can have clear letters, symbols, and images, which are excellent in a laser-marking property and high in contrasts between the original surface color and the printed portions. The laser-marking multilayer sheet is excellent especially for inhibiting the falsification and forgery thereof.
US08322749B2	Integral protection removable system for motor vehicles without body shell An integral protection removable system for motor vehicles without body shell, which comprises a plurality of longitudinal, transversal and diagonal bars, both removable and combinable to each other, which cover the sides below and above the height of the seat of the vehicle and which define, as a whole, a substantially ovoid configuration having its spherical end directed to the back of the vehicle and its oval end directed to the front part of the vehicle, capable to incorporate covering panels, fixed and/or removable, capable of guaranteeing a high resistance to all kind of impacts and providing a safety structure which is comfortable, practical and with novel performance, with the exclusive characteristic in the field of cages of integral protection for motor vehicles of forming a totally modular structure capable to be removed from the chassis of the vehicle.
US08322746B1	Cart for lifting and transporting articles A cart includes a first structural member and a second structural member. The first structural member has a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The second structural member has a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. A pivot pivotally connects the first portions of the first and second structural members. A force generator applies a force between the third portions of the first and second structural members. The force generator causes the first and second members to pivot toward each other. A first connector connects the first structural member to a load and a second connector connects the second structural member to the load. In this manner, the pivoting of the first and second structural members toward each other applies a lifting motion at the first and second structural members that is transferred by the first and second connectors to the load. One or more wheels may be provided to support the first and second structural members.
US08322744B2	Stroller and seat assembly A stroller has a frame assembly, a seat assembly mounted to the frame assembly, and a hub assembly carried by the seat assembly. The hub assembly has a hub axis, a first hub part connected to the stroller, and a second hub part connected to the first hub part and to the seat assembly. A cup holder is connected to the first hub part. The second hub part and the seat assembly can be rotated about the hub axis relative to the first hub part to adjust a recline position of the seat assembly while the cup holder does not rotate therewith.
US08322736B2	Swing arm assembly A swing arm assembly is configured for pivotal coupling with a frame of a vehicle. The swing arm assembly includes first and second support arms. A first axle support bracket is attached to the first support arm and a second axle support bracket is attached to the second support arm. A first reinforcement member includes upper, lower, forward and rearward edges, and is welded to the first axle support bracket along at least a portion of the upper edge and at least a portion of the lower edge of the first reinforcement member. The rearward edge of the first reinforcement member is devoid of weld material. The first support arm is attached to the first reinforcement member. Vehicles including a swing arm assembly are also provided.
US08322732B2	Portable workstation A portable workstation includes wheels, a tabletop, a generally planar member and a chassis joining the wheels, the tabletop and the planar member. While joined to the wheels and the tabletop by the chassis, the planar member is movable between a protracted position and a retracted position. A majority of the planar member extends above the tabletop in the protracted position, and a majority of the planar member does not extend above the tabletop in the retracted position.
US08322724B2	Tabletop sporting game apparatus A portable tabletop sporting game apparatus includes a game board having at least one opening formed therein. A pair of legs are attached to the game board in order to elevate the game board generally off of the ground. A lever is operatively attached to an underside of the game board and in communication with a man game piece. The man game piece is disposed through the game board opening, such that when the lever is depressed, the man game piece is forced upwardly through the game board opening in order to block or lift a ball, which is being pushed, moved or nudged across the game board.
US08322723B1	System and method for providing and managing a competitive puzzle-based game having at least one risk element A puzzle-based game system and method, having at least one risk element (e.g., wagering), is provided, enabling players to compete in a puzzle-based game of skill utilizing a system of risk-element-based rules, that are applied in a predetermined manner to: first partition a set of puzzles into a predefined plurality of puzzle elements, thereafter “dealing” the puzzle elements sequentially in a “round by round” sequence, and enabling, during at least a portion of the total game rounds, each player to selectively take one or more predefined risk-based actions (such as placing a wager), during a predefined time in each “risk” (e.g., wagering) round. The inventive system and method may also include an optional system and method enabling provision and management of dynamic online game environments and related infrastructures advantageously usable in plural multi-player online games having social interaction and competitive aspects, and utilizing virtual currency, with optional educational applications.
US08322722B1	Random number selector device A random number selector device featuring a hollow globe with globe air apertures disposed in the top end and a plurality of balls disposed in the inner cavity. A base supports the globe. Side apertures are disposed the side and base air apertures are disposed in the top of the base. A fan and motor are disposed in the base. The fan and motor draw air into the base and push air out of the base via the base air, apertures. Air flow causes the balls to move around randomly. A tube adapted to collect the balls is disposed on the globe. A spring-loaded tube cover can pivot between a first position and a second position respectively allowing and preventing access to the selector tube. A release lever manipulates the tube cover.
US08322720B2	Sheet buffering system The present disclosure provides a printing device comprising a sheet buffer including a paper path having a plurality of nip pairs for selectively receiving and releasing a plurality of printer sheets. The plurality of nip pairs include a fixed load nip pair, a fixed unload nip pair, and at least another intermediate fixed nip pair therebetween. In a first operation each subsequent sheet of the plurality of sheets is shingled over a previous sheet wherein the plurality of sheets can be stopped in the intermediate nip pair or pairs. Individual sheets of the plurality of sheets can be advanced to the unload nip pair sequentially in a second operation whereupon the individual sheets are successively unloaded as needed in a first in first out order.
US08322719B1	System and method for varying a nip point A system for conveying sheets of corrugated paperboard material or other materials. The system includes a processing module configured for transferring the material in a conveying direction, the processing module having a first nip point. A conveyor is positioned downstream of the processing module and also configured for transferring the material in the conveying direction. The conveyor includes a first support roller and second support roller having a first conveyor belt wound therearound, with the belt defining a deflector section extending from the first support roller to the second support roller. Similar to the processing module, the conveyor includes a second nip point. An adjustment drive can be operatively associated with either or both of the first and second support rollers and configured to adjust the position of the second nip point in or counter to the delivery direction.
US08322718B2	Recording medium conveyer capable of effectively conveying recording medium of various types In a recording medium conveyer, a driver drives a feeding member and a conveying member provided downstream from the feeding member in a recording medium conveyance direction independently. A controller stops driving the feeding member when a first time period elapses after a recording medium reaches the conveying member. When a selector judges that the thickness of the recording medium identifies the recording medium as thin paper, the controller does not drive the feeding member after the controller starts driving the conveying member, and when the selector judges that the recording medium has a thickness greater than a thickness of the recording medium that identifies the recording medium as thin paper, the controller restarts driving the feeding member no later than when the controller starts driving the conveying member.
US08322714B2	Sheet conveying apparatus and image forming apparatus A sheet conveying apparatus includes a guide unit configured to form a conveyance path on which a sheet passes wherein the guide unit includes curved portions curved in a thickness-direction of the conveyed sheet, and a flat portion. The guide unit includes a rib contacting with the sheet and disposed continuously spreading over the curved portions and the flat portion. The rib has at least a part tilted with respect to the sheet conveying-direction in the curved portion more than in the flat portion.
US08322713B2	Cross conveying device When the sheet (100) is mounted onto the conveyance surface (20), the alignment guide (3) is located at the retraction position by the alignment guide moving mechanism, and after the sheet (100) is mounted onto the conveyance surface (20), the alignment guide (3) is located at the guide position by the alignment guide moving mechanism.
US08322709B2	Method and apparatus for adjusting media positioning and indexing using an encoder in an image forming device A method for indexing a lift plate in an image forming device according to one exemplary embodiment includes driving a motor in a first direction to drive a pick mechanism for feeding media from a stack of media sheets on a raisable lift plate such that as media is fed the height of the pick mechanism decreases. When the height of the pick mechanism falls below a predetermined level, the motor is driven a predetermined amount of rotation in a second direction opposite the first direction to raise the lift plate in order to raise the pick mechanism to a desired pick height.
US08322703B2	Image forming device having sheet conveying device A sheet conveying device includes an accommodating unit, a conveying roller, a driving member, and a clutch mechanism. The accommodating tray has a sheet accommodating unit. The conveying roller is for conveying a sheet. The driving member supplies a drive force to the conveying roller. The clutch mechanism includes a link that moves in mechanical conjunction with the attachment or detachment of the accommodating tray and a movable member that moves in association with the movement of the link. The clutch mechanism selectively connects and disconnects a drive force transmitting path by the movement of the movable member. The clutch mechanism disconnects the drive force transmitting path when the accommodating tray is detached, and the clutch mechanism connects the drive force transmitting path when the accommodating tray is attached.
US08322699B2	Vise assembly An assembly is provided that may be supported on or above a variety of work surfaces and that is adapted to support a workpiece or a tool in a wide range of orientations. The assembly comprises a vise apparatus including (i) a first clamping component, (ii) a second clamping component, and (iii) a slide bar possessing a polygonal-shaped outer surface, the slide bar being at least partially interposed between the first clamping component and the second clamping component. The assembly further includes a first mounting apparatus including (i) a first clamping device configured to engage the polygonal-shaped outer surface of the slide bar so as to releasably hold the slide bar in fixed relation to the first clamping device, and (ii) a first attachment mechanism configured to removably secure the first mounting apparatus to a first support, the first attachment mechanism possessing a first configuration. Moreover, the assembly includes a second mounting apparatus including (i) a second clamping device configured to engage the polygonal-shaped outer surface of the slide bar so as to releasably hold the slide bar in fixed relation to the second clamping device, and (ii) a second attachment mechanism configured to removably secure the second mounting apparatus to a second support, the second attachment mechanism possessing a second configuration which is different from the first configuration.
US08322698B2	Method for reducing vibrations of a machine element and/or of a workpiece The invention relates to a method for reducing vibrations of a machine element (9) and/or a workpiece (5) in a machine tool, a production machine and/or in a machine which is embodied as a robot. A clamping force (F), which is used to lock the workpiece (5) and which makes the workpiece holder (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 11a, 11b) act upon the workpiece (5), is modified when vibrations occur. The invention also relates to a corresponding machine. Due to said invention, vibrations of a machine element (9) and/or a workpiece (5), which occur during a machining process, are reduced.
US08322697B2	Clamping device for adjoining board materials A clamping device for adjoining board materials includes: a C-shaped base having a base section, a top arm and an upright arm; a first press rod and a second press rod vertically movably fitted through the top arm; two first fastener assemblies for fastening and locating the press rods; a horizontal holder mechanism fitted on the first press rod and vertically movable along the first press rod; and a second fastener assembly for adjustably fastening the holder mechanism to the first press rod at a height. The holder mechanism includes at least one horizontally movable guide pin and an abutment member disposed at a front end of the guide pin. In use, a horizontal board material and an upright board material are placed in the base and fixedly held with the first and second press rods respectively. The abutment member serves to abut against and hold the upright board material.
US08322696B2	Multi-seal vacuum hold down A three piece vacuum cup is made from rubber to resist damage and facilitates reconfiguring when badly damaged or for specific applications. The vacuum cup includes top, center, and bottom parts. The top is easily and inexpensively replaceable. A flexible lip seal surrounds the top edge of the top to seal against irregular surfaces and damage to the lip seal may be addressed by inserting a cord seal into slots in the top to form a second seal. Part of the top may be cut away to use with small parts and sealed using the cord seal. The center includes a family of passages which may be selectively blocked to permit use of partial tops. A bar pattern on the top has bars aligned in perpendicular directions to better hold material in all cutting directions.
US08322694B2	Vibration isolator A vibration isolator is described for inhibiting transfer of vibration to an apparatus during evacuation thereof by a pump. The isolator comprising a bellows for isolating from the ambient atmosphere fluid drawn from the apparatus by the pump. A first flange is connected to one end of the bellows for mounting the isolators the apparatus, and a second flange is connected to the other end of the bellows for mounting the isolator to the pump. The bellows surrounds a resilient element, preferably a helical tension spring, which is substantially co-axial with the bellows. The resilient element has a first end located proximate to the first flange and connected to the second flange, and a second end located proximate to the second flange and connected to the first flange.
US08322692B2	Device for winching An apparatus positions a boat having a clip attached to a bow onto a boat trailer. The apparatus is used with a winch and two guides mounted on the boat trailer. The two guides are positioned a selected distance from the winch toward the rear of the boat trailer and spaced apart from each other. The apparatus includes three line sections windable about a reel of the winch with two of the line sections being windable about the reel in one direction and the third line being wound in an opposite direction. The two lines that are wound on the reel in the same direction extend around the guides while the third line extends between the guides and all of the lines being connected to each other at their distal ends. Forward movement of the boat engages the clip with the lines such that the boat can be winched onto the trailer.
US08322690B2	Cable dressing fixture A fixture for dressing a plurality of cables into cable bundles is provided. The fixture includes a first panel having a plurality of first apertures extending through the panel. The first apertures are configured in a predetermined array in the first panel, with each first aperture located a first distance from each adjacent first aperture. A second panel is disposed at a distance from the first panel, the second panel having a plurality of second apertures extending through the second panel. The second apertures are configured in a second array corresponding to the array of apertures in the first panel. Each second aperture is located a second distance from each adjacent second aperture. The first plurality of apertures receives a plurality of cables fed into the fixture. The second plurality of apertures is adapted to receive the cables from the first apertures and to feed the cables from the fixture in a cable array ready to be tied into a bundle.
US08322689B2	Conductor stringing apparatus and process A line stringing apparatus includes in combination an electric motor, motor controller and a processor switchable between a pulling mode and a tensioning mode. An electric motor expends electrical energy when pulling the line and generates electrical energy when tensioning the line. The processor outputting commands to the motor controller for control thereof and for application of electrical energy from the batteries to the electric motor when in the pulling mode and for application of electrical energy generated by the electric motor to the plurality of batteries when in tensioning mode. The processor limits electric motor torque and speed based on operator commands for speed and torque in said pulling mode; and, the processor controlling electric motor torque in the tensioning mode.
US08322682B2	Method and arrangement for controlling flush water volume A flush system includes a valve body, a valve seat, a flushing shaft and a flush water control arrangement which includes a flush actuator and a water control pusher. The flush actuator is adapted to move between a high and a low volume actuating position. The water control pusher includes a low and a high volume pusher member spacedly extended from the flush actuator, in such a manner that when the flush actuator is moved to the high volume actuating position, the high volume pusher member is driven to move to pivotally move the flushing shaft at the higher pushing position for producing a high volume of flush water, wherein when the flush actuator is move to the low volume actuating position, the low volume pusher member is driven to move to pivotally move the flushing shaft at the lower pushing position for producing a low volume of flush water.
US08322681B2	Relief valve for a turbocharger The invention relates to a relief valve comprising a first valve body for opening and closing a fluid passageway between a first valve connection and a second valve connection, a second valve body which is disposed on the first valve body and is used for opening and closing a valve passageway located between the first valve connection and a valve interior, a one throttle duct between the valve interior and a face of the first valve body, a spring for opening the second valve body, and an actuator for closing the second valve body. This relief valve further comprising a movable member that can be moved further in the same direction once the second valve body has been closed, thus allowing the first valve body to be opened by having the second valve body engage a valve seat located on the first valve body, and a stop element connected to the second valve body and/or the movable member engages the first valve body via the spring to close the first valve body.
US08322680B2	Exhaust system hanger of vehicle The present invention relates to an exhaust system hanger of a vehicle, in which two protrusions facing and spaced apart from each other are integrally formed at a center portion between both distal ends of the hanger, and the two protrusions selectively contact each other to increase a spring constant, when the shape of the hanger is elastically deformed by external force beyond a predetermined elastic value.
US08322679B2	Container data center A container data center includes a container, a number of shock absorbers installed in the container, and a support plate installed on the shock absorbers. Each shock absorber includes a support bracket and two damping elements positioned at opposite ends of the support bracket. Each damping element includes a first connecting end fixed to a corresponding end of the support bracket, and a second connecting end fixed to the container. The first connecting ends of the damping elements are movable relative to the corresponding second ends of the damping elements through overcoming resistance. The support plate is installed on the support bracket and can support a number of servers.
US08322674B2	Suspension system for a ceiling mount of a surgical microscope A suspension system for a ceiling mount of a medical device is suggested, comprising an attachment device provided at a ceiling and a console arranged between the attachment device and the ceiling mount for movement of the ceiling mount parallel to the ceiling. Said console comprises a support plate connected to the attachment device and a carriage that is movable with respect to the support plate and is connected to the ceiling mount. This allows movement of the medical device to the greatest extent possible to all positions in the surgical area without colliding with alternately usable operating lights.
US08322673B2	Flat panel display mounting A television mounting system includes a wall plate, at least one monitor arm mountable on the wall plate, and a locking mechanism including a rotating locking element permanently connected with the monitor arm. The rotating element is moveable, by rotation of the rotating element a portion of a revolution, between an unlocked position for enabling dismounting of the at least one monitor arm from the wall plate, and a locked position for preventing dismounting of the at least one monitor arm from the wall plate. The rotating element includes a first side having a different height than a second side. In the locked position of the locking element, the first side is less of a distance from a contact portion of the wall plate than a distance the monitor arm must be moved for dismounting the monitor arm from the wall plate, such that the locking element contacts the contact portion before the monitor can be moved for being dismounted from the wall plate.
US08322672B2	Container holder A container holder includes a cylindrical opening, having a side wall with a movable section which extends between a raised position, completing a cylindrical support for a container, and a lowered position providing a notch for receiving a handle of a cup. In one embodiment, a pair of adjacent cup holders are provided with a movable section extending between them. In a preferred embodiment, the movable section includes a push-push latch such that it can be pressed downwardly and remain in a retracted position for use with a handle-including container and, upon pushing a second time, is raised to accommodate a cylindrical container. In another embodiment, a damper mechanism is provided to control the motion of the movable section. In yet another embodiment of the invention, a peripheral seal near the movable section is provided to reduce or eliminate the effect of any fluid spilled on the control mechanism.
US08322671B2	Tray mechanism with automatic beverage holding device A tray mechanism may include a tray having a storage zone and a beverage holding device having a receptacle. The beverage holding device may automatically extend as the tray is extended.
US08322670B2	Deployment apparatuses Embodiments of the present invention include a deployment apparatus comprising a deployment object, a deployment arm, a deployment link, a pivot housing, at least two linear guides, and a gas spring. The deployment object is coupled to the deployment arm, which is pivotally coupled to the deployment link. An opposing end of the deployment link is fixedly coupled to a structure. The pivot housing is adjacent the connection between the deployment link and the deployment arm. The pivot housing is slidingly engaged with the at least two linear guides. The gas spring is coupled to the pivot housing, which pushes the pivot housing to an upper end of the at least two linear guides and causes the deployment link to rotate the deployment arm from a stowed angle to a released angle and results in a displaced vertical distance.
US08322669B2	Storage bin retainer member A storage bin retaining member for releasable attachment to a support panel having a pair of horizontally spaced openings includes a body having an upper arm portion extending outwardly from each side thereof, a lower support portion extending outwardly from each side thereof and a central portion connecting the upper arm and the lower support portion. A pair of resilient tabs extending downwardly from the upper ends of the upper arm portion engage a pair of openings in the support panel to secure the retaining member to the support panel and a spring member connected to the bottom of the lower support portion engages a storage bin attached to a lower pair of openings.
US08322666B2	Portable and adjustable stand A portable and adjustable stand includes a base assembly having at least three legs pivotally coupled to an end cap and movable between retracted and extended configurations. The stand includes a length adjustable rod having first and second rod members for selectively adjusting the height thereof. The end cap is slidably coupled to a lower end of the first rod member. A drink holder assembly is mounted atop the second rod member. An auxiliary rod member and umbrella holder may be coupled to the second rod member.
US08322663B2	Bag holder A bag holder adapted to fit inside a flexible bag to support the bag comprising a rectangular frame having four vertical legs connected to and depending from the frame. Each of the legs has an inwardly bent portion at the lower end thereof to facilitate sliding entry into the bag. The legs are flexible such that upon pushing down on the frame the bend portion provides that the legs bow outwardly against the inside of the bag, shaping the bag into an unwrinkled and more rigid and stable state. With the frame reacting against the bag, the frame can resist a greater downwards vertical load which assists in the filling of the bag.
US08322661B2	Strut clamp A clamp for a construction strut that allows a pipe to be clamped to the construction strut in which the clamp has a fastener that is not exposed above the clamp curvature and in which the fastener head is easily accessible. Also the clamp has a retaining tab and a neck portion such that it can be installed either on the open side of the construction strut or on the closed side using slots in the closed side by straight-in passing the retaining tab past the inturned flanges on the top of the construction strut.
US08322660B2	Relay for toy track set A relay for a toy track set, the relay having, a first actuator in a first plane; a second actuator in a second plane vertically elevated from the first plane; a conduit fluidly coupling the first actuator to the second actuator; and a release mechanism moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the release mechanism from the first position towards the second position causes the first actuator to force a fluid through the conduit, wherein the fluid forced through the conduit by the first actuator causes the second actuator to actuate a second release mechanism, wherein the first actuator is coupled to a first vehicle track segment and the second actuator is coupled to a second vehicle track segment.
US08322659B2	Method for lightening the weight of fuel stowed onboard during an interplanetary mission The method for lightening the weight of fuel stowed onboard during an interplanetary mission is characterized in that it consists: in launching (10a) a first orbiter spacecraft (1) from the Earth on a first interplanetary trajectory (31, 33) towards a target planet to be explored, in launching (10b) a second orbiter spacecraft (2) from the Earth on a second interplanetary trajectory (32, 34) towards a rendezvous spot (38), the second interplanetary trajectory not comprising any phase of placing in orbit around the target planet, in recovering a load to be transported and in loading it onto the first orbiter spacecraft (1), in returning the first orbiter spacecraft (1) and the load from the target planet to the rendezvous spot (38), in effecting a docking (14) of the two orbiter spacecraft (1, 2), in returning at least the second orbiter spacecraft (2) and the load, from the rendezvous spot (38) to a terrestrial orbit (41).
US08322654B2	Aircraft galley units Galley units are provided having a moveable galley structure in the interior aircraft cabin. During passenger ingress/egress and during certain phases of the aircraft's flight (e.g., take-off and landing), the galley structure may be moved so as to be laterally adjacent the main cabin door and thereby provide access to the door. During other phases of the aircraft's flight (e.g., during cruise flight at altitude), the galley structure may be moved laterally so as to cover the main cabin door and thereby provide enhanced acoustic and/or thermal insulation in the main cabin door area. The space vacated by the moveable galley structure may thus expose other galley structures and/or equipment. An aircraft which includes such an aircraft galley unit and methods to achieve acoustic and/or thermal insulation for an aircraft cabin door using such an aircraft galley unit are also provided.
US08322646B2	Winder A front winding base frame (1A) and a rear winding base frame (1B) are respectively provided with winding arms (3A and 3B) that hold winding shafts (4A and 4B) so as to be capable of ascending and descending vertically, and the winding arms (3A and 3B) are attached to the front winding base frame (1A) and the rear winding base frame (1B) so as to be capable of being exchanged between the front winding base frame (1A) and the rear winding base frame (1B). A front-side touch roller frame (13A) and a rear-side touch roller frame (13B) are respectively provided with touch rollers (16A and 16B) so as to be capable of ascending and descending vertically, and the touch rollers (16A and 16B) are attached to the front-side touch roller frame (13A) and the rear-side touch roller frame (13B) so as to be capable of being exchanged between the front-side touch roller frame (13A) and the rear-side touch roller frame (13B). In this winder, the winding shaft (4A or 4B) while being in pressure contact with the touch roller (16A) is passed on from the front winding base frame (1A) to the rear winding base frame (1B).
US08322645B2	Machine and winding process for the storage of flat elements A machine and a winding process receiving a continuous flow of flat and flexible elements (10) aligned along a longitudinal axis and partially overlapping, to form a spool (6) by rolling these elements into a spiral around a drum (8), with insertion between the turns of a flexible central strip (26), one end of which is fixed onto the drum and the other end of which unwinds from a hub (60) on which the strip has previously been wound, characterized in that the machine also includes a motor-driven resource (54) to regulate the transverse position of the hub (60) so as to perform lateral movement in relation to the spool (6) in order to maintain a constant alignment of the strip (26) during the winding process.
US08322641B2	Selective collection system for recycling input materials having a monitor A selective collection system for recyclable containers including a housing part, an input device, a material identification device, a sorting guide device, a shredding device, a compressing device, a collection part, and a control device.
US08322640B2	Apparatus, system, and method for compostable waste processing An apparatus, system, and method to process compostable waste. The apparatus includes a shredding module, a grinding module, and a bagging module. The shredding module may operate to shred non-food compostable waste into shredded waste. The grinding module may operate to combine the shredded waste with food waste into combined waste, add water to the combined waste if an insufficient moisture condition exists for further processing, and grind the combined waste into particulate waste. The bagging module may operate to bag the particulate waste into a compostable bag.
US08322638B2	Method for producing hydraulic powder In the invention, a hydraulic powder is prepared by a step of grinding a hydraulic compound in the presence of compound (a) that is obtained by adding an alkyleneoxide having 2 to 4 carbon atoms to a compound which has no amino group, but has an active hydrogen, provided that polyethyleneglycol and polypropyleneglycol are excluded. Alternatively, the hydraulic compound can be ground in the presence of compound (a) and anti-foaming agent (b).
US08322633B2	Expansion nozzle assembly to produce inert gas bubbles A nozzle assembly for encapsulating a gaseous solution in bubbles comprises a discharge tube having a diffuser and a foam solution spray nozzle mounted therein. The discharge tube has upstream and downstream ends. The discharge tube has a front face at the upstream end with a first opening configured to be joined to a gas supply line that provides a gaseous solution and a second opening configured to receive a non-expanded foam solution. The downstream end of the discharge tube is open. A chamber is formed within the discharge tube to receive the gaseous solution at the upstream end and release the gaseous solution through the diffuser into the discharge tube towards the downstream end.
US08322631B2	Trigger pump sprayer having favorable particle size distribution with specified liquids A trigger pump sprayer in combination with a liquid dispensed from the sprayer. The sprayer is suitable for dispensing liquid from a reservoir, through a nozzle into particles. The trigger sprayer provides for efficacious particle size distributions of the liquids, when sprayed under non-ideal conditions. Non-ideal conditions include only partial strokes of the trigger, rather than full strokes and relatively slow trigger strokes. The trigger sprayer advantageously delivers a particle size distribution suitable for liquids having particular rheological properties. The advantageous particle size distribution difference is accomplished by using a precompression piston which reciprocates in response to trigger strokes, and selecting a liquid having appropriate properties to correspond to the trigger pump operating characteristics.
US08322629B2	Electrical bridge in fuel injectors Disclosed is a fuel injector in which at least one electrically triggered valve is disposed inside an injector member and is connected to an externally accessible injector member contact by means of a solid conductor, the solid conductor and the electrical valve contact being interconnected directly via an electrically conducting positive connection or indirectly via an electrically conducting connecting element. The solid conductor is configured so as to substantially maintain the shape thereof under the influence of the proper weight thereof.
US08322627B2	Nested binary code symbol A nested binary code symbol (200) comprising a boundary binary code symbol (110) and at least a core code symbol (120) that provides encoded data, wherein the core code symbol (120) is nested within and concentric with the boundary binary code symbol (110) The boundary binary code symbol (110) is rectangular with a continuous outer perimeter, two data regions along adjacent sides of the rectangle, and a utility region adjacent each side opposite the data regions. Each data region is made up of a number of data cells, and each utility region is made up of utility cells with alternating appearance. There are two distinct finder cells on opposite corners of the rectangle, which can be used to orient the symbol. A non-linear strain gage for measuring the strain on an object under load include a target, a sensor, and a computer, wherein the target is a nested binary code symbol (200).
US08322626B2	Integrated circuit with embedded RFID An integrated circuit (IC) die includes a high capacitance solid state circuit region configured to perform predetermined operations and an RFID block configured for wireless communication with an external source. The RFID block is configured to record results from a plurality of stages of a manufacturing process. The RFID block is further configured to generate an internal BIST command in response to an external command wirelessly received by the RFID. The integrated circuit die also includes a built-in self-test (BIST) block coupled to carry out testing of the high capacitance solid state circuit region in response to the internal BIST command. The RFID block is configured to be capable of storing store information relating to the testing. The RFID block is further configured to enable wireless retrieval of the test results from the testing of the high capacitance solid state circuit region.
US08322623B1	Systems and methods for advanced card printing Layers of colored polymers are applied to a surface of a card and are hardened and adhered to a card via light such as ultraviolet or light having a wavelength in the blue spectrum. The layers may be applied to form three dimensional indicia on the surface of the card. For example, letters, numbers, logos, and other indicia (e.g., pictures) may be printed three dimensionally onto the surface of the card. Troughs may be formed via such layering such that indicia is provided as indentations into the added layers. Extensions may be formed via such layering such that indicia is provided as extensions from the added layers. Indicia may be provided via extensions and/or indentations. As such, embossed and/or engraved indicia may be provided on the surface of a card without impacting the structural integrity of the card.
US08322622B2	Hand-supportable digital-imaging based code symbol reading system supporting motion blur reduction using an accelerometer sensor A digital-imaging based code symbol reading system which automatically detects hand-induced vibration when the user attempts to read one or more 1D and/or 2D code symbols on an object, and controls system operation in order to reduce motion blur in digital images captured by the hand-supportable system, whether operated in a snap-shot or video image capture mode. An accelerometer sensor is used to automatically detect hand/system acceleration in a vector space during system operation. In a first embodiment, digital image capture is initiated when the user manually depresses a trigger switch, and decode processed only when the measured acceleration of the hand-supportable housing is below predetermined acceleration threshold levels. In another embodiment, digital image capture is initiated when an object is automatically detected in the field of view of the system, and decode processed only when the measured acceleration of the hand-supportable housing is below predetermined acceleration threshold levels.
US08322620B2	Decoding distorted symbols A method is provided for reading distorted optical symbols using known locating and decoding methods, without requiring a separate and elaborate camera calibration procedure, without excessive computational complexity, and without compromised burst noise handling. The invention exploits a distortion-tolerant method for locating and decoding 2D code symbols to provide a correspondence between a set of points in an acquired image and a set of points in the symbol. A coordinate transformation is then constructed using the correspondence, and run-time images are corrected using the coordinate transformation. Each corrected run-time image provides a distortion-free representation of a symbol that can be read by traditional code readers that normally cannot read distorted symbols. The method can handle both optical distortion and printing distortion. The method is applicable to “portable” readers when an incident angle with the surface is maintained, the reader being disposed at any distance from the surface.
US08322619B2	Account application product, associated package and method for processing an associated application An account application product includes a package, an account identifier and a terms sheet. The package includes a first panel extending from a free edge to a first fold line, a second panel extending away from the first fold line to a second fold line, and a third panel extending away from the second fold line. The first panel is folded back along the first fold line toward a first surface of the second panel to define a storage area between the first panel and the second panel. The third panel is folded forward along the second fold line toward a second surface of the second panel. The account identifier indicates an account associated with the account application product and is configured to be machine readable. The terms sheet is selectively stored in the storage area and includes printed terms for the account. Associated packages and method are also disclosed.
US08322615B2	Information reading apparatus An information reading apparatus includes: a transfer path for transferring an information recording medium (a passport); an image sensor which is placed in a frame constructing the transfer path and optically reads information recorded in the information recording medium (the passport); and non-contact communication antennas which send and receive information to/from an antenna or an antenna embedded in the information recording medium (the passport), through electromagnetic induction. The plurality of non-contact communication antennas are laid out in the frame constructing the transfer path.
US08322614B2	System for processing financial transactions in a self-service library terminal A library terminal permits a user to execute a loan transaction without assistance. The library terminal (i) provides a visible scan line from a bar code reader indicating the correct positioning of the bar code on a circulating item, (ii) leads a user through a loan transaction, (iii) provides an explicit feedback to a user when an article has an improper position on the article receiving area, (iv) both checks out and checks in circulating items, (v) stores fonts in bit maps of screen displays instead of in a separate font memory, (vi) integrates a security marker reader, a printer, and a controller in the same housing, (vii) processes financial transactions related to the borrowing of circulating items, and/or (viii) displays actions for helping the user to correct errors in use of the terminal.
US08322613B2	Systems and methods for performing quality assurance of branding of pharmaceutical/medical containers and computer assisted systems and methods for branding pharmaceutical/medical containers In some embodiments, quality assurance systems for verifying branding of at least one medication container associated with at least one of a prescription and medication order are provided. The systems including: a transport system that transports at least one first container branded with a particular branding among a plurality of brandings to and from a pharmaceutical and/or medical product dispensing system, and transports the at least one first container to the pharmaceutical and/or medical product dispensing system after correcting the particular branding when correction is performed; a scanning system including at least one scanner for scanning identification information associated with the at least one first container; a display that displays order information associated with the identification information received from the scanning system including information indicating a correct branding for the at least one first container; and a pharmacist station for determining whether the correct branding matches the particular branding and correcting the particular branding if the correct branding does not match the particular branding.
US08322611B2	Commodity sales data processing apparatus and control method therefor A commodity sales data processing apparatus including a display unit configured to display various kinds of information includes an angle-of-field setting unit configured to set an angle of field of a display screen of the display unit to a first angle of field or a second angle of field narrower than the first angle of field. When checkout processing is started, an angle-of-field control section of the commodity sales data processing apparatus causes the angle-of-field setting unit to operate and set the angle of field of the display screen of the display unit to the second angle of field.
US08322610B2	Secure access module for integrated circuit card applications Mechanisms are provided for executing security-sensitive applications with a general-purpose computing device. In particular, the general-purpose computing device includes an unsecure computing environment and a secure computing environment. The secure computing environment is established with a secure access module that includes data and functions for executing the security-sensitive application on behalf of the unsecure computing environment.
US08322605B2	Dynamic identity matching in response to threat levels A dynamic identity matching facility that enables an operator to determine the status of an individual based on identification information contained on an identification record provided by the individual. The operator scans the individual's identification information from the identification record using a scanning device. The facility decodes the scanned identification information and identifies a number of candidates based on the decoded identification information. For each identified candidate, the facility generates a candidate score. Based on the candidate score of each identified candidate, the facility selects a number of the identified candidates for display. The facility displays the selected candidates to the operator along with the candidate's criminal or other acts.
US08322604B2	System and method for independent verification of circulating bank notes A system and method for independently verifying a bank note processor's handling of circulating bank notes. Independent detectors are provided along the transport path of a bank note processing device. Also provided is at least one independent memory storage device for logging data from the independent detectors. As the note passes along the transport path, the independent detectors evaluate the note's fitness. The independent detector data is subsequently provided to the central bank or commercial organization for auditing of the bank note processor and for generating bank note statistics. Independent detectors may also be used on the transport path output bins to corroborate the other detectors and to verify the integrity of the sorting logic. Mirrored independent detectors allow for corroborating independent data. The invention is operable on any bank note processing device that performs at least a subset of a fitness determination on each note.
US08322601B1	In wall rotating device for exchanging items between service provider and drive-through lane customer A system operated responsive to data included on data bearing cards enables carrying out transactions between a service provider and a customer. Customers may be located within a vehicle in a drive-through lane adjacent to a building which houses a service provider station. Financial accounts may be assessed charges for items based on data read from cards. The customer and service provider may exchange items through a pneumatic tube conveyor system. Alternatively items may be exchanged through a rotating device which provides for selectively positioning items at delivery stations at different vertical heights. The service provider positions items at a suitable level for exchange with the customer based on the height associated with the user in their vehicle.
US08322599B2	Display control of classified content based on flexible interface e-paper conformation A method includes, but is not limited to: obtaining and controlling display of one or more portions of the flexible interface containing electronic device regarding display of second information having one or more classifications in response to the first information associated with the one or more changes in the one or more conformations of the one or more portions of the one or more regions of the flexible interface containing electronic device. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.
US08322598B1	Mailbox mounting bracket A mailbox mounting bracket is configured for attachment to a post, rail, fence, or the like, to allow a mailbox to be mounted in multiple orientations. The bracket has a top plate with a plurality of holes for mounting to the bottom of a mailbox, a downwardly-extending peripheral ridge with a plurality of holes for mounting to the sides of the mailbox, and first and second downwardly-extending flanges at opposite sides of the bracket each with a plurality of holes for mounting to opposite sides of the post, fence, rail or the like. In another embodiment, the bracket includes two pieces each having a top plate, the top plates being rotatably connected to each other for extra support and versatility.
US08322593B2	Method of welding a component to a shape memory alloy workpiece with provision of an extra cut for compensating the variations of dimension of workpiece and component A method of cutting, polishing and then welding together two metallic components (10, 18), in which the respective components (10, 18) are cut to define respective cut surfaces (14, 16) that are to be polished and fitted together, both to define the relative positions of the two components (10, 18) to be fixed by the welding and to provide facing weld surfaces at which the two components (10, 18) can be welded together. The method is characterized by the steps of i) making at least one extra cut (20), to create at least one zone of elastic deformation that deforms when the cut surfaces (14, 16) are fitted together; ii) polishing the cut surfaces (14, 16) before fitting them together; and iii) designing the dimensions of the cut components (10, 18) so that the zones of elastic deformation compensate for the variations of dimensions caused by the polishing step, thereby retaining the capability of the polished cut surfaces (14, 16, 20) to define said component (10, 18) relative positions during the welding step.
US08322589B2	Surgical stapling instruments A surgical instrument including a shaft, an end effector movable relative to the shaft, a locking mechanism configured to engage the shaft and/or end effector to fix the relative relationship between the shaft and end effector, and a closure system configured to close the end effector and engage the locking mechanism to prevent it from becoming unlocked. The instrument can further include a firing drive comprising a trigger, a firing member, and a pawl, where the pawl is rotatable between a first position in which the pawl is disengaged from the firing member and a second position in which the trigger can advance the pawl and firing member toward the end effector. The instrument can also include a reel, a band, where the band can be wound around the reel to retract the firing member, and a return mechanism for selectively engaging the trigger with the firing member and the reel.
US08322587B2	Roller assembly for web material dispenser A roller assembly in a wipe material dispenser has at least one pair of cooperating rollers arranged to feed the wipe material. The roller assembly comprises a first and a second roller, wherein each roller comprises a central longitudinal core on which is mounted a number of parallel and axially spaced discs. Each roller has regions of reduced diameter between adjacent discs, and the first and the second roller are located so that the axial location of the spaced discs on the first roller coincides with the regions of reduced diameter between adjacent discs on the second roller. A roller suitable for use in the roller assembly and a dispenser including such an assembly are also provided.
US08322585B2	Golf bag or other shoulder-borne device having double strap to single strap convertibility Golf bags and other shoulder borne devices have strapping systems capable of converting between a single strap configuration and a double strap configuration. The strapping system includes two main straps. In the double strap configuration, the first strap member has three ends, each of which is attached to a location on the golf bag (or other structure), and the second strap member has one free end attached to the golf bag (or other structure) and one free end attached to a central area of the first strap member. When converting to the single strap configuration, the first strap member is removed from the golf bag (or other structure) completely, and the free end of the second strap member that was attached to the first strap member is removed therefrom and engaged with the golf bag (or other structure).
US08322584B2	Support for cooling a container The support for cooling a container is a portable holder for a container of chewing tobacco that can be releasably attached to a vehicle air conditioner vent. The support includes a substantially circular front wall having at least one front rib formed on an inner face thereof. A semi-cylindrical sidewall extends peripherally from the inner face of the front wall, and at least one side rib is formed on an inner face thereof. A rear strap or wall extends across the sidewall, forming a pocket for holding the container. The rear wall is adapted for releasable attachment to the vent. In use, the at least one front rib and the at least one side rib space the container apart from the respective inner faces of the front wall and the sidewall to permit cool air to circulate around the container.
US08322583B2	Detachable collapsible bicycle basket A collapsible detachable bicycle basket is constructed so as to be easily and readily mountable upon a luggage rack of a bicycle without the use of any threaded fasteners. To facilitate such mounting, the collapsible basket has a pair of spaced hooks attached to the top edge of one side of the basket and a resilient flexible connector in the form of a loop of bungee cord attached near the bottom of the same side of the basket. The hooks of the basket are receivable over a portion of the deck of the luggage rack and the loop of the bungee cord is attachable to a lower portion of the luggage rack to secure the basket to the luggage rack.
US08322579B2	Garment hanger with top sizer A top sizer clip according to one embodiment for use with a garment hanger includes a body having a pair of side walls and end walls joined to and extending between the side walls. The body includes a top wall that is joined to upper edges of the side walls and end walls. The top wall partially encloses the body so as to create a hollow body structure that includes an interior compartment defined by the end walls, side walls, and top wall. The top wall includes an opening formed therethrough for receiving a hook member of the hanger. The opening is defined by a pair of opposing first edges and a pair of opposing second side edges that extend between the first edges. The clip also includes a pair of slots being formed along the first edges and extending toward the end walls. The second edges include a pair of interference sections (detents) where a distance between the second edges is at a minimum.
US08322577B2	Syringe with improved plunger A plunger for a syringe used to inject gas and liquid chromatography samples has an end portion surrounded by a flexible sleeve. The sleeve forms a seal in the bore of a barrel traversed by the plunger, the bore being in fluid communication with a cannula attached to the end of the barrel. The plunger has an end surface that is exposed and is flush with an annular end surface of the sleeve. The plunger end surface, and not the sleeve, contacts the cannula upon injection and avoids imposing cyclical hoop stresses on the barrel which tend to crack the barrel after a finite number of cycles. In a further embodiment, a thin layer of sleeve material covers the end surface of the plunger. The thin layer avoids inducing significant barrel stress.
US08322574B1	Drinking water dispensing system for automobiles and associated method A drinking water dispensing system for automobiles and associated method preferable includes a reservoir; an egress spout, a pump; temperature adjusting mechanism; a user interface; a thermodynamic conduit including first and second valves; cooling elements; heating elements and first and second insulating layers. The first and second passageways are coaxially oriented along the conduit and cooperate with the cooling/heating elements such that cold/hot water streams are independently transferred to the egress spout while maximizing/minimizing heat transfer losses. Separate water streams are passed through the first/second passageways by selectively toggling the first/second plurality of valves between open and closed positions upon receiving instructions signals from the user interface. Such a system provides users with a readily available source of hot/cold water for drinking while traveling, without requiring the use of separate water-transfer conduits.
US08322571B2	Liner-based liquid storage and dispensing systems with empty detection capability Fluid supply systems for storage and dispensing of chemical reagents and compositions, e.g., high purity liquid reagents and chemical mechanical polishing compositions used to manufacture microelectronic device products, having capability for detection of an empty or near-empty condition when the contained liquid is at or approaching depletion during dispensing operation. Fluid delivery systems employing empty detect arrangements are described, including pressure transducer monitoring of dispensed material intermediate the supply package and a servo-hydraulic dispense pump, or monitoring of dispenser chamber replenishment times in a dispenser being replenished on a cyclic schedule to flow material from the dispenser to a downstream tool utilizing the dispensed material.
US08322569B2	Integrated valve regulator assembly and system for the controlled storage and dispensing of a hazardous material The present invention provides for an integrated valve regulator assembly that comprises an integral body having a base portion that includes an axis for mounting on and coaxially with the neck portion of a pressurized source vessel and an assembly outlet, a defined internal passage in the integral body that extends through and between the base portion of the integral body and the assembly outlet, a sub-atmospheric pressure regulator assembled within the integral body of the integrated valve regulator assembly, an isolation valve positioned within the defined internal passage of the integral body and located downstream from and in communication with the sub-atmospheric pressure regulator, and a filling port disposed between the axis for mounting on and coaxially with the neck portion of the pressurized source vessel and the sub-atmospheric pressure regulator. The present invention further provides for a system for the controlled storage and dispensing of a hazardous material at sub-atmospheric pressure that comprises a pressurized source vessel and the integrated valve regulator assembly of the present invention. The present invention further provides for an additional integrated valve regulator assembly as described with the exception that the pressure regulator utilized is for super-atmospheric pressure conditions and also a system that comprises a pressurized source vessel and the integrated valve regulator assembly that includes a super-atmospheric pressure regulator.
US08322566B2	Lock box with sliding lid The present invention is directed to a secured group lock box. The group lock box includes a body having a latch and a lid connected to the body. The lid includes a main member and a back member. The main member of the lid includes a plurality of slots and the back member of the lid includes a plurality of pins. One of the pins is installed in each of the slots for enabling the main member of the lid to slidingly extend over the body of the group lock box before the lid is rotated away from the body to provide access to the contents therein.
US08322565B2	Container and cap assembly A container and cap assembly includes a container body and a cap integrally connected to the container body. An annular recess is formed in the lip of the container. The cap includes first and second sealing flanges that form a generally fluid tight seal with an annular lip of the container body.
US08322564B2	Cooking article with folding handle Cooking article (1) consists of a vessel (3) with a bottom surface (4) and a lateral surface (5), and at least one handle (10) and 11) attached to lateral surface (5) formed by assembly one (20) and assembly two (40), with each assembly (20 and 40) connected to vessel (3) to pivot between a storage position and a working position in which the two assemblies (20 and 40) form a single unit extending radially to lateral surface (5). Each assembly (20 and 40) is essentially aligned with the lateral surface (5) and assembly two (40) contains a gripping section (47) which extends above vessel (3) to allow a user to hold the cooking article (1) when inserting it into or removing it from a similar, slightly larger cooking article (2).
US08322561B2	Container assembly having removable exterior shelf structures A container assembly (1) having a container body (11) and exterior shelf structures (41, 44) that are each reversibly attached to exterior surfaces (35, 38) of first (17) and second (20) sidewalls of the container body (11), is described. Each exterior shelf structure (41, 44) has a shelf base (47), and a forward shelf portion (56) and a rear shelf portion (62) that each extend upwardly from the shelf base (47). Each exterior shelf structure has a shelf space (77) that resides between and is defined in part by the forward (56) and rear (62) shelf portions. The forward shelf portion (56) of each exterior shelf structure (41, 44) has an open front or face (86) that is in communication with a recessed chamber (89) of the forward shelf portion (56). The exterior shelf structures (41, 44) may each be reversibly attached to the container body sidewalls (17, 20) by means of tabs (98) that are received within tab apertures (110) of the sidewalls. The exterior shelf structures (41, 44) may be removed from the container body sidewalls (17, 20) and stored within the container interior (32), allowing the container body to be compactly stored and/or shipped. The container assembly, including the container body and exterior shelf structures, may be used to store items, such as personal items, e.g., toys and/or clothing.
US08322559B2	Drum with sidewall threaded to plastic base or chime A shipping and storage drum comprises a unitary base of synthetic resin comprising a circular center wall connected at a peripheral edge to a connecting ring having an upwardly opening threaded annular channel. A tubular fiberboard sidewall defines a peripherally closed space having open opposite upper and lower ends. The tubular sidewall lower end is threaded into the threaded annular channel to close the sidewall lower end. The shipping and storage drum may also comprise a chime of synthetic resin comprising a connecting ring having a downwardly opening threaded annular channel receiving the upper end of the tubular sidewall, the chime for removably receiving a cover.
US08322557B2	Tank structure A prismatic tank has outer and inner walls and internal horizontal stays. The walls include a plurality of horizontal beam sections. Each beam section has two parallel flanges interconnected by a web and a pair of opposing end faces. The beam sections are stacked one on top of the other and joined together along adjoining longitudinal edges of respective flanges and at end faces of respective beam sections such that a joint is formed between a first end face of a first beam section and a second, abutting end face of a second, abutting beam section. The web of the first beam section is recessed at the first end face and the web of the second beam section is recessed at the second end face so as to leave a first opening in the joint.
US08322555B2	Resealable tamper-evident container assembly and lid A lid includes a generally flat interior portion and an outer ridge area surrounding the interior portion. The outer ridge area includes a first ridge side, a ridge top, and a second ridge side. The first ridge side extends generally upward from the interior portion. The ridge top extends from the first ridge side and is generally parallel to the interior portion. The second ridge side extends generally downward from the ridge top. The second ridge side includes a top section and a bottom section. A thickness of the bottom section is smaller than a thickness of the top section. The bottom section includes at least one fixed tab and at least one tear band. The at least one fixed tab is separated from the at least one tear band by at least one vertical membrane.
US08322552B2	Fuel filler system for automotive vehicle A fuel filler system for an automotive vehicle includes a filler pipe connected with a fuel tank and an interceptor mounted about an open end of the filler pipe, with the interceptor and filler pipe defining a generally annular contaminant collector having a drain extending from the collector. A filler cap closes both the open end of the filler pipe and the open end of the interceptor, so as to prevent ambient contamination from entering either the contaminant collector or the filler pipe. Removal of the filler cap from the filler pipe first causes venting of the fuel tank into the collector before a sealing condition between the filler cap and the interceptor is released.
US08322549B2	Twist off crown A bottle sealed with a crown cap that has a soft feel during removal of the crown cap from the bottle is provided. Such a bottle may include a body and a neck extending up from the body. The neck may include a threaded portion, and a crimped crown cap may be removeably affixed onto the threaded portion. The crimped crown cap may include a circular top member, and a skirt depending downwardly from a periphery of the top member. The skirt may include alternating flutes and lands that are configured such that recesses are formed in a majority of the flutes. Preferably a majority of the recesses contact the threaded portion of the bottle neck. Because of the recesses formed in the flutes, the crown cap may have a soft feel during removal of the crown cap from the bottle.
US08322547B2	Removal of sediment from a container holding liquid A sediment removal assembly (10) is provided for removal of sediment (110) in a container (100). The assembly has a container seal (12) for sealing an opening (114) to the container. The container seal is formed with a seal body (14) with a flow through passageway (20) between opposite ends of the seal body, and a valve arrangement (26) with a valve member (34) normally spring biassed to close said passageway. One end of said seal body is adapted to sealingly engage said container at an opening thereof to close the opening. The assembly also has a sediment reservoir (40) adapted for removable sealing engagement with the opposite end of the seal body and in communication with the flow through passageway so that upon opening the valve member.
US08322545B1	Curved bin for shelf A shelf for a metal cabinet has a planar member, a ramped member extending from the planar member having a first, curved portion and a second, straight portion. The first, curved portion and second, straight portion are connected via a third, curved portion therebetween. The first curved portion has a first radius, and the second, curved portion has a second radius different from the first radius. The straight portion forms an outer wall of the shelf.
US08322542B2	Cassette for receiving substrates A cassette for receiving substrates includes a frame, and a plurality of support plates protruding from both lateral sides of the frame, wherein the support plates have a width and length large enough to support the substrates without a bending and an access space for a robot arm to transport the substrates, an area of the access space corresponding to an area of the robot arm.
US08322541B2	Towel rail with electric heating element A method of assembling a towel rail having vertically extending, elongate, tubular supports opposed and spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart, horizontally extending, tubular beams, the method including: a) threading an elongate flexible heating element through a respective support; b) looping an appropriate length of the element through each hole of the support to form a plurality of looped sections; c) threading each looped section through a respective beam from the second end; d) inserting the second end of each beam through a respective hole of the respective support to bring an abutment surface of the second end into contact with an inner surface of the support; and e) locking the second end of each beam to the support by passing a fastener at least partially through the support to engage with a recess formed in the second end.
US08322539B1	Filter vial A filter vial for separating biological and chemical fluids has a cylindrical sidewall with an open top and a closed bottom. A protrusion extends upwards from the middle of the bottom to form an annular recess. A tubular plunger has an open bottom end to which is fastened an annular cup having an outer sidewall sized to fit into and seal against the vial's sidewall. An inner sidewall of the annular cup holds a filter over an opening in the bottom of the plunger and forms a shaped cavity leading to that filter. The annular cup on the plunger fits into the annular recess in the vial to force fluid from the vial through the filter and into the plunger.
US08322535B2	Pomegranate seed separator An apparatus for separating the arils from a fruit such as a pomegranate. The apparatus comprising a perforated grid for fixing over a receptacle, and a dome for covering the fruit and a corresponding method for removing seeds from a fruit comprising: (a) opening the fruit into at least two pieces; (b) placing the opened fruit opening side down onto a perforated grid and placing a dome over the piece of fruit; (c) placing the grid over a receptacle; (d) tapping the dome to separate and dislodge the arils from the fruit so that they fall through the openings into the receptacle.
US08322531B2	Twin blade knife package A knife package includes a card having a front side and a back side. The knife package further comprises a utility knife having a body and a plurality of blade holders movable within the body, and a plurality of slides on the body. Each slide is operatively connected with one of the blade holders, and the slides are arranged to move associated blade holders in the body. The knife package further comprises a securement structure that secures the utility knife to the card, wherein said utility knife is secured on the front side of said card by the securement structure such that the plurality of slides of the utility knife are visible when viewing the front side of the card from an angle normal to the front side of the card.
US08322530B2	Storage container and container system A storage container system has a plurality of container bases and lids. Each base has a bottom, a continuous side wall extending up from the bottom and terminating at a top edge, an interior storage space within the side wall above the bottom, and an open top bounded by the top edge. Each lid has a main panel section, a perimeter skirt around the main panel section, a top side, and a bottom side. Each lid is configured to close off the open top of any one of the plurality of container bases by connecting a part of the perimeter skirt to the side wall near the top edge. Each lid has a first connecting structure with a lid-to-lid component and a mating lid-to-lid component. Each lid-to-lid component is configured to connect to the mating lid-to-lid component on any other one of the plurality of lids to connect any two of the plurality of lids together. Each lid also has a lid-to-base component, which is part of a second connecting structure and is different from the first connecting structure components. Each base has a mating lid-to-base component of the second connecting structure. Each lid-to-base component is configured to connect to each mating lid-to-base component to connect any one of the plurality of lids to the bottom of any one of the plurality of container bases.
US08322522B2	Nested end link and multi-link conveyor chain A nested end protector link for capturing first and second elongate link pins of a multi-link conveyor chain that includes a first link segment having an outer wall in a first vertical plane defining a protective bearing surface having a forward-facing convex face, and a rearward-facing concave face and a first pin access bore extending perpendicularly through the link between the forward-facing convex face and the rearward-facing concave face. A second link segment is integrally-formed with the first link segment and has an outer wall in a second vertical plane defining a protective bearing surface having a forward-facing concave face. A rearward-facing convex face is provided and has a second pin access bore extending perpendicularly through the link between the forward-facing concave face and the rearward-facing convex face.
US08322520B2	Tongue-in-groove belt hold down for a draper platform A conveyor belt hold down for a draper platform comprises a planar portion having a front edge, a rear edge, a left edge, and a right edge, wherein one of the left and the right edges defines a first slot or groove structure, and the other of the left and the right edges defines a first tongue structure, wherein the first tongue structure is configured to be engaged in a second slot or groove structure of a similar hold down disposed immediately adjacent to the first tongue structure, and wherein the first slot or groove structure is configured to receive a second tongue structure of a similar hold down disposed immediately adjacent to the first slot or groove structure.
US08322518B2	Carousel conveyor and method Apparatus and method for recirculating articles on a belt conveyor. An article-recirculation path is formed in a pair of parallel conveyor belts running continuously in opposite directions. Article-supporting rollers in each belt rotate to transfer articles from one belt to the other in a transfer region at each end of the conveyor to form an endless recirculation path.
US08322516B2	Pallet and a pallet system Pallet (1) for a conveyer system, comprising a body (2), a first guide disc (3) and a second guide disc (4) attached to the body (2), where a first slide plate (9) is mounted to the first guide disc (3) and a second slide plate (10) is mounted to the second guide disc (4), characterized in that the slide plates (9, 10) are mounted to the guide discs (3, 4) with a snap locking by means of a plurality of protrusions (11, 12, 13). The advantage of the invention is that a pallet can easily be adapted for a different use in a conveyor system.
US08322510B2	System for automatically identifying, conveying and addressing biological material specimens There is described an automated laboratory system for handling test tubes containing biological material specimens supported by conveying devices (3) along guide lanes (1, 2), in which motorized conveyor belts (62) run, comprising main lanes (1) and secondary lanes (2) for overtaking the conveying devices (3) and/or routing the conveying devices (3) of the test tubes (4) to the various pre-testing, (19-20), testing (17) and post-testing stations (21). Said system further comprises a detecting device (5) of the test tube (4) positioned in the loading area of the test tube (4) into the conveying device (3), a reading device of a barcode applied onto the side surface of said test tube (4) adapted to identify the test tube (4), said barcode being applied to the test tube before it is loaded into the conveyor device, identifying and control means, preferably of the RFID type, of the conveying device (3) of the test tubes (4), comprising a network of antennas (23) appropriately located in the system at stop devices (8) so as to be able to communicate with the transponders of corresponding conveying means (3) storing recognizing data of the corresponding conveying device (3), and a control unit (100) capable of associating the conveying devices (3) of the test tubes (4) to the corresponding test tubes by receiving data and transmitting commands to the devices mounted in the system.
US08322504B2	Combined power transmission, drive unit and drive train for a hybrid system A combined power transmission and drive unit for the application in drive trains in hybrid systems with at least two prime movers that can be coupled via a power transmission unit with a consumer, in particular transmission. Between a first prime mover and the power transmission unit, a device is provided for connecting/disconnecting the power flow between the latter and the power transmission unit, including a friction clutch that can be actuated by a pressure medium, including a first clutch part and a second clutch part which can be brought in active connection with one another via a servo unit featuring a piston element that can be pressurized by a pressure medium. A combined power transmission and drive unit according to the invention, with control of a rotation speed difference of a flow medium on either face side of a piston element.
US08322503B2	Double-clutch transmission element for a hybrid pull chain of a motor vehicle, method of mounting same, and motor vehicle equipped with one such element The inventive double-clutch transmission element for a hybrid pull chain of a motor vehicle comprises a motion input shaft (37), a motion output shaft (39), an electrical machine (31) comprising a stator (61) and a rotor (63), a first clutch (33) providing a connection between the input shaft (37) and an intermediate member (73), and a second clutch (35) providing a connection between the intermediate member (73) and the output shaft (39), the intermediate member (73) being coupled in rotation to the rotor (63). A casing comprising a first half-shell (51) rotatably supporting the input shaft (37) and a second half-shell (52) rotatably supporting the output shaft (39) defines a housing in which the two clutches (33, 35) and the electrical machine (31) are mounted in a co-axial manner. The invention also relates to a motor vehicle equipped with such transmission element and to a method of mounting same.
US08322493B2	Power unit A power unit provided with a dry sump type lubricating device includes a power unit case that is covered in part by a power unit case cover and is divided into a front unit case and a rear unit case. The power unit also includes a crankshaft rotatably supported by a crank chamber that is formed by the power unit case and a shift shaft rotatably supported by a transmission chamber that is provided adjacent to the crank chamber. The power unit also includes an oil tank disposed on the crank chamber side of an anteroposterior outside surface of the power unit case cover and a hydraulic control device for controlling a shift clutch, disposed on the transmission chamber side of the anteroposterior outside surface of the power unit case cover.
US08322490B1	Trailer and flatbed ladder apparatus The trailer and flatbed ladder apparatus provides ladder access to a trailer and to a flatbed. The apparatus is highly portable by way of being hinged between the upper and lower sections and due to the tubular construction. The apparatus may therefore be easily and space efficiently stored on and within a truck, bed, or trailer. The apparatus is removably positionable in a plurality of locations around a flatbed and trailer, wherever a stake pocket exists. The stake provides positive non-slip fit to a trailer and flatbed that negates unintentional movement and removal, thereby ensuring safety. Full pivot is provided between the stake and sleeve and the upper section. The apparatus removably fits snugly within the existing stake pockets of a flatbed and trailer due to the stake square outer corners and rounded inner corners that match existing stake pockets.
US08322488B2	Support harness A harness system for supporting a person off of a ground surface. The harness system may include a seat supported by a strap attached to the seat. The strap may form one or more leg containing loops for keeping a person securely positioned in the harness. The harness may also include a climbing strap for securing the harness loosely to a support device, such as a tree, while a person climbs a support device. The harness may be secured to a person by tightening a waist strap around the person's waist. The harness system may include a fall restraint device and shoulder straps enabling the harness system to qualify as a fall arrest system.
US08322481B2	Traveling control apparatus for hydraulic traveling vehicle A rotational speed pickup 71 (traveling speed detection means), a hydraulic pressure sensor 72 (traveling operation detection means), a hydraulic pressure sensor 73 (drive status detection means), and a voltage sensor 74 (transmission shift position detection means) detect parameters regarding the traveling state of a hydraulic traveling vehicle. A control unit 80, a solenoid proportional valve 81, an engine control system 82, and a motor regulator 33 determine the operating state of the hydraulic traveling vehicle based on the parameters regarding the traveling state, and control the equivalent displacement of the traveling system including a hydraulic traveling motor 14 and the maximum flow rate supplied to the hydraulic traveling motor 14 according to the result of determination. The pump flow rate and motor displacement are controlled according to the traveling state in this way, thereby ensuring favorable traveling performance without degrading the fuel efficiency.
US08322473B2	Process for controlling a start-stop operation of a vehicle having a hybrid drive, and a corresponding vehicle A process for controlling a start-stop operation of a vehicle having a hybrid drive with an internal-combustion engine and an electric motor, a service brake with an ABS and an electric parking brake, includes: determining, monitoring and analyzing performance parameters of the vehicle, the internal-combustion engine, the electric motor, the service brake and the electric parking brake; automatically releasing the electric parking brake in the case of a starting prompt because of determined performance parameters; driving the vehicle by the electric motor for the start; starting the internal-combustion engine by the electric motor if the internal-combustion engine is switched off; driving the vehicle by the electric motor and the internal-combustion engine; activating a generator operation of the electric motor in the case of a braking prompt because of determined performance parameters; activating the service brake; and automatically locking the electric parking brake when the vehicle is stopped after a previously definable deceleration time, and a corresponding vehicle.
US08322472B2	Hybrid vehicle exhaust control strategy A hybrid vehicle emission control method may include operating the hybrid vehicle in a first mode during which a combustion engine is off and an electric motor propels the hybrid vehicle. An electrically heated selective catalytic reduction catalyst (EHSCR) may be energized during the first mode. The vehicle may be operated in a second mode after the first mode during which the engine propels the hybrid vehicle.
US08322471B2	Angular momentum torque enhancement for spherical vehicles An apparatus and method are described for utilizing internally generated angular momentum for supplementing the propulsion of a mobile spherical vehicle capable of motion by rolling over terrain, thereby enabling such vehicles to climb steeper inclines and overcome larger obstacles. Torque generated by counter-rotating gyroscopes was used to supplement gravity generated torque produced by a pendulum drive propulsion system. Precession torque may be generated along a desired axis by changing the angular momentum of the gyroscopes while leaving its magnitude unaffected.
US08322456B2	Articulating drill with integrated circuit board and method of operation The present invention is an articulating hand power tool with a main housing having a longitudinal axis, a head portion rotatably engaged with the main housing for placement at a plurality of angles with respect to the longitudinal axis of the main housing, an integrated circuit board located within the main housing and at least one controller accessible from outside of the main housing for controlling the integrated circuit board.
US08322451B2	Downhole apparatus and method A downhole apparatus, such as a wellbore packer, is provided with a swellable member and a fluid supply assembly. The fluid supply assembly is to receive fluid and expose the swellable member to the fluid to cause expansion of the swellable member, and comprises a support structure for supporting the swellable member on the body. In a preferred embodiment, the support structure defines a chamber and is configured to allow fluid to flow and access the swellable member. A method of use and method of sealing a wellbore is described.
US08322450B2	Wellbore packer A wellbore packer having a setting mechanism adapted to apply an axial force along a force path; a seal member connected with the setting mechanism along the force path, the seal member set in response to the application of the axial force; a slip connected with the setting mechanism downstream of the seal member along the force path, the slip set in response to the application of the axial force; and an assembly adapted to transfer the axial force around the intervening seal member to the slip.
US08322447B2	Generating power in a well An apparatus that is usable with a well includes an operator and a generator. The operator is disposed in the well and configured to respond to a differential pressure between hydraulically isolated zones of the well to produce mechanical motion. The generator is disposed in the well to convert the mechanical motion into electricity. A method that is usable with a well is provided including maintaining hydraulic isolation between a first and second zone of a well. While maintaining the hydraulic isolation, the method further includes producing a mechanical motion in response to a differential pressure between the first and second zones and generating electricity in response to the mechanical motion.
US08322437B2	Method and system for confining and salvaging oil and methane leakage from offshore locations and extraction operations A method of, and system for, collecting and controlling hydrocarbons leaking from offshore sea bottom environments entail providing a concrete containment barrier and catenary gasket around the leak source, pumping concrete onto the catenary gasket, opening ports and valves in a containment vessel while it is positioned over the leak source, at least partially embedding the containment vessel in the pumped concrete, closing the ports and valves to capture leaking fluids, and communicating the fluids to the surface for further processing. The modular containment barrier may be placed around an existing or potential well site, or an operating well, abandoned well or sea bottom fissure to facilitate implementation of the method in the event of a leak.
US08322436B2	Split assembly attachment device A spider assembly is a round platform with a central bore used to support sections of casing as the sections of casing are joined to one another and lowered below a drilling platform. The spider assembly comprises two c-shaped section joined together at two seams, one seam at the end of each leg of the c-shape. A clamping plate is used to join each seam and apply a preload force on the joint. The preload force minimizes axial deflection at the joint.
US08322435B2	Pressure driven system A pressure driven pumping system includes a piston disposed within a first bore of a housing to separate a process chamber from a working chamber. A rod member coupled to the separating member extends into a reduced pressure chamber. The piston has a first face exposed to the process chamber and a second face exposed to the working chamber. The second face has an effective area less than an effective area of the first face. The housing may be placed in seawater at a selected depth. The process chamber can be in fluid communication with a well to pass well fluid into the process chamber at well pressure to move the piston, to discharge seawater from the seawater chamber. The working fluid, typically seawater in a subsea application, is pumped into the working chamber to move the piston, which discharges well fluid from the process chamber.
US08322433B2	Wired slip joint Embodiments of the invention disclose systems, apparatuses, and methods of measurement performed by pipe conveyed tools. In an embodiment, a system for evaluation of a well bore includes a drill string assembly comprising a plurality of pipe joints, a wired slip joint coupled to the plurality of drill pipe, the slip joint movable from a retracted position to an extended position to compensate for changes in length of the drill string, the extended position having a length greater than the retracted position; a sensor positioned in the slip joint, wherein the sensor detects a change in length of the slip joint and generates a signal representative of a position of the slip joint, and a communication system to transmit the signal from the slip joint to a surface processor.
US08322432B2	Subsea internal riser rotating control device system and method An RCD is used to provide a system and method for sealing a marine riser having a rotatable tubular. A bypass internal channel or external line may be used to allow fluid to bypass the RCD seal. An RCD seal assembly seal could be a mechanically extrudable seal or a hydraulically expanded seal to seal the RCD with the riser.
US08322431B2	Wellbore servicing compositions and methods of making and using same A method of servicing hydrocarbon production equipment comprising locating at least a portion of a hydrocarbon flow conduit experiencing a loss of functionality; creating a port to access an interior flow bore of the hydrocarbon flow conduit; installing at least one piece of equipment proximate the access port, wherein the equipment has access to the interior flow bore via the access port; and placing a servicing composition into the conduit via the access port, wherein the servicing composition prevents the loss of materials from the interior of the hydrocarbon flow conduit to the surrounding environment.
US08322427B2	Control system A method of reducing a pressure within a first cavity of a subsea device is disclosed which includes transferring fluid within the first cavity to an accumulator, increasing a pressure of the fluid within the accumulator and, after increasing the pressure of the fluid within the accumulator, transferring at least some of the fluid in the accumulator into a second cavity, wherein the second cavity is at a higher pressure than said first cavity. A device for reducing a pressure within a first cavity of a subsea device is also disclosed which includes a transfer accumulator comprising a piston, the transfer accumulator being in fluid communication with the first cavity and a second cavity, at least one first valve positioned between the first cavity and the transfer accumulator, the at least one first valve adapted to permit fluid flow only from the first cavity to the second cavity, and at least one second valve positioned between the transfer accumulator and the second cavity, the at least one second valve adapted to permit fluid flow only from the transfer accumulator to the second cavity.
US08322422B2	Method of removing a device in an annulus A method for removing at least a portion of an object in an annulus formed between an external surface of a tubular element and a wall surface. A method for removing an annulus packer, of the swellable type or the foam type, from an annulus in a wellbore comprises the placement of a jetting tool inside the tubular element and effecting a high-pressure fluid flow from the jetting tool to the object, whereby the object is removed.
US08322420B2	Toe-to-heel gravel packing methods Gravel packing of a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation is carried out in a wellbore having a cased section and an uncased section that contains water-based drilling fluids. A first water-based displacement fluid that contains a shale inhibitor is introduced into the wellbore to displace the water-based drilling fluids from the uncased section of the wellbore. A second water-based displacement fluid is introduced into the wellbore to displace fluids within the cased section of the wellbore. A sand control screen assembly is run to a selected depth within the uncased section of the wellbore to facilitate a gravel packing operation. A gravel pack slurry containing gravel and a viscosified carrier fluid is introduced into the wellbore to facilitate gravel packing of the uncased section. The gravel packing operation may be carried without the use of shunt flow paths and with the use of a sand screen assembly having at least one diverter valve to divert fluid returns to facilitate prevention of pressure build up.
US08322419B2	Method of gravel packing a well containing synthetic or oil-based drilling fluids A method of gravel packing a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation. The wellbore has a cased section and an uncased section and contains synthetic or oil-based drilling fluids containing drilled solids. To carry out the method, fresh synthetic or oil-based displacement fluid that is free of drilled solids is introduced into the wellbore to displace the synthetic or oil-based drilling fluids from the uncased section of the wellbore. A water-based displacement fluid is introduced into the wellbore to displace fluids within the cased section of the wellbore. A sand control screen assembly is run to a selected depth within the uncased section of the wellbore. A gravel pack slurry containing gravel and a water-based carrier fluid is then introduced into the wellbore.
US08322418B2	Offset interior slurry discharge A slurry discharge device for use in a subterranean well can include a slurry flow passage extending longitudinally in the device. The slurry flow passage has flow passage sections. One flow passage section is positioned downstream of, and is laterally offset relative to, another flow passage section. Another slurry discharge device can include the slurry flow passage having multiple flow areas. One flow area is positioned in a downstream direction from, and is greater than, another flow area. A method of delivering a slurry into a subterranean well can include discharging the slurry from a tubular string through a first sidewall section of a slurry discharge device; and flowing only a returned fluid portion of the slurry through a second sidewall section of the slurry discharge device. The second sidewall section has a lateral thickness greater than a lateral thickness of the first sidewall section.
US08322414B2	Surface detection of failed open-hole packers using tubing with external tracer coatings Distinctive and analytically distinguishable water-soluble and oil-soluble tracer compositions are applied as coatings to the exterior surface of one or more lengths of production tubing installed in a horizontal well bore between open-hole packers adjacent one or more inflow control devices, (ICD), whereby water and/or oil contacting one or more of the respective tracer coatings and passing a faulty open-hole packer seal will solubilize the tracer coating(s) and be detectable by appropriate tests on the produced water and/or hydrocarbon fluids at the earth's surface.
US08322410B2	System, method and apparatus for enhancing wellbore treatment fluid flexibility An apparatus including at least four different modules, the first module being a treatment conditions module structured to interpret a specified pumping rate and a specified salt concentration. The second is a hydration requirements module structured to determine at least one of a hydration vessel fluid volume and a specified temperature in response to the specified pumping rate. The third is a dynamic brine generation module structured to control a flow rate of a first fluid, at least one of a clay stabilizer precursor, an acid precursor and a base precursor; and a polymer material into a hydration vessel in response to the specified salt concentration and the at least one of the hydration vessel fluid volume and the specified temperature. The fourth is a treatment fluid flow module structured to control a flow rate of a treatment fluid from the hydration vessel in response to the specified pumping rate.
US08322409B2	Method and device for making lateral openings out of a wellbore A method and device for making lateral openings out of a wellbore in a well formation where fluid is made to flow through a motherbore tubular like a completion or production pipe and then through a needle pipe that is aimed at the formation, and where the method includes positioning a needle pipe that comprises at least one pipe section inside or outside a motherbore tubular; and arranging the at least one pipe sections to be telescopically displaceable with regard to an other pipe.
US08322408B2	Heat exchanger and air conditioner In a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between fluid such as refrigerant and air, an object of the present invention is to extend the surface area of fins while suppressing an increase in ventilation resistance, thereby improving performances of the heat exchanger. Corrugated sheet fins (70) are provided as the fins of the heat exchanger (60). The corrugated sheet fins (70) are each shaped like a corrugated sheet. The ridgeline direction of the waveform of the corrugated sheet fins (70) is orthogonal to front edges and rear edges. In the heat exchanger (60), the plurality of corrugated sheet fins (70) are arranged at constant pitches in the axial direction of the heat transfer tube (61).
US08322407B2	Heat exchanger with pressure reduction A heat exchanger and related method of making is disclosed herewith. The heat exchanger may have first and second fluid reservoirs that retain a quantity of fluid and also a plurality of tubes that extend between the first and second reservoirs and circulate the fluid therebetween. First and second header plates may be retained respectively in the first and second reservoirs through which the plurality of tubes are mounted. First and second pressure reduction plates may each have a plurality of apertures that respectively encompass first and second ends of each of the plurality of tubes. The plurality of apertures may have tapered side walls that taper outwardly from the respective ends, to reduce turbulence of the fluid between the plurality of tubes and the first and second reservoirs.
US08322406B2	Thermally conductive porous element-based recuperators A heat exchanger includes at least one hot fluid flow channel comprising a first plurality of open cell porous elements having first gaps therebetween for flowing a hot fluid in a flow direction and at least one cold fluid flow channel comprising a second plurality of open cell porous elements having second gaps therebetween for flowing a cold fluid in a countercurrent flow direction relative to the flow direction. The thermal conductivity of the porous elements is at least 10 W/m·K. A separation member is interposed between the hot and cold flow channels for isolating flow paths associated these flow channels. The first and second plurality of porous elements at least partially overlap one another to form a plurality of heat transfer pairs which transfer heat from respective ones of the first porous elements to respective ones of the second porous elements through the separation member.
US08322404B2	Heat dissipation device for at least two electronic devices with two sets of fins A heat dissipation device for removing heat from an electronic device and electronic components, includes a base plate in contact with the electronic device, a first fin set and a second fin set mounted on the base plate. The first fin set includes a plurality of first fins perpendicularly arranged on the base plate. The second fin set includes a plurality of second fins attached to a lateral side of the first fin set and perpendicular to both the first fins and the base plate. A fan is mounted on tops of the first fin set and the second fin set to cover both of them. Air generated by the fan flows through the first and second fin sets to cool the electronic components mounted on orthogonally neighboring sides of the heat dissipation device.
US08322402B2	Method and apparatus for controlling strip temperature rebound in cast strip During continuously casting metal strip, delivering molten metal supported on the casting surfaces of the casting rolls, and counter rotating the casting rolls to form metal shells on the casting surfaces brought together at the nip to deliver cast strip downwardly with a controlled amount of mushy material between the metal shells, determining at a reference location downstream from the nip a target temperature for the cast strip corresponding to a desired amount of mushy material between the metal shells of the cast strip, sensing the temperature of the cast strip cast downstream from the nip at the reference location and producing a sensor signal corresponding to the sensed temperature, and causing an actuator to vary the gap at the nip between the casting rolls in response to the sensor signal received from the sensor and processed to determine the temperature difference between the sensed temperature and the target temperature.

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