| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08333394B1 |
Bucket stand
A bucket stand is described herein. The bucket stand has a body for receiving and supporting cylindrical objects such as paint containers. Within the body is a padding for securing the cylindrical objects, so that when a user lifts the cylindrical object, for example, the paint container's handle, the bucket stand is lifted too. This permits better portability of both objects without having to separate them and carry each individually. Furthermore, the cylindrical object is only temporarily secured within the bucket stand for easy removal of the object when desired. The bucket stand is also able to be further elevated and includes wheels to enable sliding of the stand. Additional padding is utilized to allow various sizes of cylindrical objects to be retained. Some embodiments utilize angled walls, magnets and fasteners to further assist in securing the cylindrical objects within the bucket stand. |
| US08333380B2 |
Instant lottery game ticket and method of playing same
An instant lottery ticket game wherein a scratch-off material is removed from a first playing area of the ticket, and if three or more like kind outcome indicia are revealed, the ticket is a winner; however, if three or more like kind outcome indicia are not revealed in the first playing area, a scratch-off covering material is removed from a second playing area to reveal a “Bonus” prize award, so that every ticket is a winning ticket. |
| US08333375B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet accommodating unit which is detachably attached to an apparatus main body and configured to accommodate sheets, a sheet stacking unit which is provided in the sheet accommodating unit and can move while supporting the sheet, a sheet feeding unit configured to feed the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit, and a lift unit configured to move the sheet stacking unit toward the sheet feeding unit, wherein, before feeding of the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit by the sheet feeding unit, the lift unit increases and then reduces press contact force between the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking unit and the sheet feeding unit. |
| US08333372B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet processing apparatus that forms asperity on a sheet bundle, which includes plural sheets, so as to bind the sheet bundle, includes: a pair of rotating members having a concave and convex portions on the outer periphery; a moving portion that moves at least one of the pair of the rotating members so as to nip the sheet bundle by the pair of the rotating members or release the sheet bundle; and a controlling portion that controls the moving portion to allow the pair of rotating members to rotate with a concave portion of one rotating member and a convex portion of the other meshed with each other while nipping the sheet bundle or releasing the sheet bundle. |
| US08333365B2 |
Hydraulic jack for long-term support
The present invention discloses a hydraulic jack for long-term support. The hydraulic jack for long-term support includes a base, a housing, an oil cylinder, a piston rod, a top cap, a pump body, a pump core, a handle, a press handle, an oil return valve, a press cap and a slit nut. The slit nut surrounds the piston rod and engages with the piston rod via screw threads. The press cap is disposed on upper ends of the slit nut and the top cap and surrounds the piston rod. The present invention can achieve safe and reliable lifting operation. |
| US08333364B1 |
Stopper elastomeric sleeve assembly into standard valve
In a valve, the combination comprises a valve body defining an annular seat, and porting at upstream and downstream sides of the seat; a valve operating handle and stem; a tubular part connected into the body and defining a first side opening facing toward one of the sides; a tubular stopper sleeve received within the tubular part and having an open end projecting through a seat defined opening; and a second side opening rotatable by the stem into and out of registration with the first side opening whereby flow through the valve and stopper sleeve is established when the second side opening registers with the first side opening, and flow through the valve is blanked when the second side opening is rotated out of registration with the first side opening. |
| US08333361B2 |
Wireless power transfer device for a fluid delivery apparatus
A fluid delivery apparatus includes a fluid outlet located on a first side of a barrier and at least one electrically powered component located on a second side of the barrier. The apparatus also includes a wireless power transfer device to supply power to the electrically powered component. |
| US08333354B2 |
Structure having a mounting means
A structure for removable attachment to a substantially vertical surface for example of glass, glazed tiles or metal. The structure includes a suction disk for sealingly contacting a surface, a pulling member attached to the suction disk for drawing a part of the suction disk away from the surface, so that a partial vacuum is created between the suction disk and the surface. Rotation of the rotatable member draws the pulling member and respective part of the suction disk away from the surface. An intermediate member is provided which engages the suction disk and supports the rotatable member. A structural member is mounted in or on the intermediate member. The outer diameter of the rotatable member is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the adjacent part of the intermediate member, so that a user's fingers will grip the rotatable member without catching on parts of the intermediate member. |
| US08333341B2 |
Reel with drum center support ring
A wooden cable reel has a drum made of a plurality of staves and flanges secured at the ends of the drum. A steel support ring is rolled from a strip to have a diameter corresponding to the interior diameter of the drum and the ends of the strip are welded together. The support ring extends around the interior of the drum intermediate its ends and is secured to the drum from the inside by fasteners extending through the ring and into the interior surface of the drum. The support ring resists inwardly directed forces applied to the drum when cable is wound onto the reel and thus prevents the drum from deforming or collapsing. |
| US08333338B2 |
Comminuting tool and comminuting device with such a comminuting tool, as well as a method for determining the state of wear of such a comminuting tool
A device for the determination of the state of wear of comminuting tools a comminuting tool, a comminuting device with such a comminuting tool, and a corresponding method. A reference surface is provided on the comminuting tool, the surface from which the distance A0, A1 to the active edges of the comminuting tool can be determined. The degree of wear then results from a comparison of the original distance A0 in an unused comminuting tool with the distance A1 reduced due to wear after a certain period of use. The thereby achieved advantage is that the state of wear can be determined independent of the general wear of the comminuting device. A distortion of the measurement result caused by this is therefore ruled out. |
| US08333334B1 |
Electro-spray coating head applicator
A rotary spray head for atomizing and dispersing fluidized coating material within a bearing stream. The rotary spray head has a plurality of elongated contoured material dispersing portals positioned to define multiple overlapping product stream flow across a diffuser surface imparting translateral product stream homogenation and adaptive proportional edge shear for an improved coating dispersal pattern. |
| US08333331B1 |
Laminar bell water display
A decorative water display provides a laminar water bell. A gas burner may be provided inside the laminar water bell to produce a decorative flame. A laminar nozzle having an outlet arranged to eject a laminar jet of water upwardly in a substantially vertical direction may strike an impactor suspended directly above the outlet of the laminar nozzle such that the laminar jet of water forms the laminar water bell. Alternatively, a vertical pipe may supply water to a thin annular region between two plates such that water flowing between the two plates assumes a generally laminar flow characteristic and forms the laminar water bell when ejected from between the two plates. Alternatively, a hemispherical nozzle may have a slot arranged to eject a sheet of water upwardly to form a segment of the laminar water bell. |
| US08333329B2 |
Atomizing desuperheater shutoff apparatus and method
The present invention is directed to a desuperheater spraying valve assembly. More particularly, the invention provides a new and improved valve assembly, whereby cooling liquid may be controllably injected into a gas or a liquid stream, typically steam, to selectively maintain the gas or liquid at a predetermined temperature level. In a possible embodiment of the present invention, a class V valve assembly is disclosed. It comprises an actuator coupled to a plug with a valve seat in the proximity of said plug. The plug is affixed to an actuator rod which transverses the body of the valve assembly. A spray tube may be affixed to said valve seat and at least one spray nozzle is affixed to a to the spray tube. The plug and said valve seat are conical in shape as to when said plug is inserted into said valve, they form a seal. |
| US08333317B2 |
System and method for authenticating the proximity of a wireless token to a computing device
Access to secured services may be controlled based on the proximity of a wireless token to a computing device through which access to the secured services is obtained. An authorized user may be provided access to a service only when a wireless token assigned to the user is in the proximity of the computing device. A user's credential may be stored on an RFID token and an RFID reader may be implemented within a security boundary on the computing device. Thus, the credential may be passed to the security boundary without passing through the computing device via software messages or applications. The security boundary may be provided, in part, by incorporating the RFID reader onto the same chip as a cryptographic processing component. Once the information is received by the RFID reader it may be encrypted within the chip. As a result, the information may never be presented in the clear outside of the chip. The cryptographic processing component may cryptographically encrypt/sign the credential received from the token so that assurance may be provided to a service provider that the credentials came from a token that was proximate to the computing device. An RFID reader, cryptographic processing components and a wireless network controller may be implemented on a single chip in a mobile device. |
| US08333316B2 |
Recording the power distribution hierarchy in datacenters
A power consuming device is configured to be electrically connected to a power connection point of a power distribution system of a datacenter. The power distribution system includes a hierarchy of power supply equipment. A first label is associated with the power connection point and includes power supply information that indicates the power connection point's place in the hierarchy of power supply equipment. A second label is associated with the power consuming device and includes identification information that identifies the power consuming device. A reader is configured to read the first label to obtain the power supply information and to read the second label to obtain the identification information. An electrical connection management system is configured to receive the power supply information and the identification information obtained by the reader such that the electrical connection management system records the connection of the power consuming device to the power connection point and the power connection point's place in the hierarchy of power supply equipment. |
| US08333315B2 |
Method for connecting conducting wire to electric heating film
A method for connecting a conducting wire to an electric heating film is provided. The method includes: first, opening a groove on an electric heating film carrier; then, placing one end of a connecting wire in the groove; afterwards, pouring a conductive adhesive into the groove; and finally, heating the electric heating film carrier, so that the electric heating film carrier is just melted and the connecting wire and the conductive adhesive are merged into a whole; and cooling the electric heating film carrier, and solidifying the conductive adhesive. The electric heating film carrier is made of various dielectric materials such as glass, ceramics, enamel, mica, quartz, and microcrystalline glass. Two sides of the electric heating film carrier are coated with layered electrodes, and the layered electrodes are connected in series to the electric heating film. The groove is disposed in the middle of the layered electrode, and the groove is an annular groove. The connecting wire is a pure silver wire. The conductive adhesive is a silver paste. The connection between the electric heating film carrier and the connecting wire achieved by the foregoing method is very firm, and the reliability is greatly improved. |
| US08333314B2 |
Structure for joining members
A structure for joining members which is suited for joining of thin members together and suited for joining of members made of different materials. The structure includes a nut, a first member superposed on the nut such that a preliminarily formed hole on the first member is contiguous with the threaded hole of the nut, and a second member superposed on the first member so as to cover the hole. |
| US08333302B2 |
Wine dispenser
An upstanding cylinder and a loading lid are produced respectively from glass. On the upper face of the bottom plate of the cylinder, a substance-pooling concave in which wine lees and tartar are pooled is formed. Owing to this constitution, there is little risk that the external air enters through a gap between the sliding faces of these members into the wine-pooling section in the cylinder and causes the oxidation of the wine. Since the cylinder comprises glass, the wine can be stored under almost the same conditions as in bottles. Further, sanitary precautions can be easily taken. Furthermore, problems such as the sticking of the cylinder to the loading lid due to stainless steel rust and so on can be overcome. |
| US08333293B2 |
Waste disposal device
A waste disposal device comprises a container having a top opening. The container provides access to an inner cavity that receives a bag with opened and closed ends. A pivoting lid closes/opens access to the opening. An actuation mechanism has a user-actuated interface. A linkage connected to the interface opens/closes the lid. A pair of jaws is connected to the linkage. The jaws move between a clamped position, in which the jaws close off a portion of the bag, and an opened position, in which the jaws are separated to allow waste to reach the closed end. The jaws and the lid are actuated concurrently by a single degree of actuation on the interface, allowing the lid to open and close while the jaws move from the clamped to the opened position, and back to the clamped position. A method for disposal of a waste object is also provided. |
| US08333292B2 |
Disposal container with locking closure
A lid for covering an interior of a medical waste receptacle base. The lid includes a cover having a generally circular opening. The opening including an upper rim surrounding an upper central axis and a lower rim surrounding a lower central axis that is non-co-linear with the upper central axis. The lid includes a generally circular closure sized for blocking the opening. The lid includes a guide extending along the cover. In the open position, the closure is at least partially out of alignment with the opening. In the closed position, a center axis of the closure is aligned with the upper central axis to block the opening. The closure is moveable from the closed position to a locked position in which the center axis of the closure is coincident with the lower central axis. |
| US08333291B2 |
Housing formed from extruded panels
A joint for a housing for electrical components has a series of extruded panels connected edge to edge. The first edge includes a slot defined by an inner wall and an outer wall and the second edge includes a blade inserted into the slot, the blade and the flexible wall including cooperating shoulders. The blade and slot are at an angle to the outer surface where a rib engages into an outer recess to seal the outer surface at the joint. A bridging member spans the joint to prevent spreading, while locking the flexible wall and carrying internal components. The housing can form a post or a receptacle on top of the post. The bridging members connect to end plates by screws extending though the plates so as to form an internal structure for the housing. Some of the connected panels can include cooling fins forming a cooling duct. |
| US08333289B2 |
Package for laundry scent additive
A package for a particulate laundry scent additive. |
| US08333286B2 |
Baby bottle having temperature sensitive valve with shape memory actuator
A valve for preventing the flow of fluid when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold, the valve including: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory or bi-metal actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing. |
| US08333284B2 |
Clip for convertible card row
When displayed, greeting cards are typically organized on a display fixture having multiple rows or levels upon which to sit the cards. Each row then has a front wall to hold in the card, yet is short enough to still view a portion of the greeting card above the wall. Because display fixtures are manufactured to have a specified amount of rows or levels at a specified depth, in order to adjust the specifications of a display fixture, other pieces may be used, for example, by attaching to the display fixture a convertible row to add another level or tier between set rows of the display fixture. By providing another row using a convertible row, another set of greeting cards may be displayed between cards displayed on other rows of the original display fixture, increasing the density of the overall display. Further, when an extra row is not desired, such a convertible row may be pushed flush against the back of the display fixture, while still attached, allowing the full depth of the row of the display fixture to be used. To support the convertible row when in use, a divider or support clip is provided. The divider clip may both separate greeting cards within a row of the display fixture and support a convertible row adjacent thereto. The divider clip includes a clipping mechanism to attach the divider clip to the display fixture and an adjustable portion capable of adjusting itself to support an adjacent convertible row. |
| US08333279B2 |
Expandable insulated packaging
A packaging system comprising a panel and a storage device, wherein the panel comprises an insulator and a primary pouch enclosing the insulator. The primary pouch may have a ventilation hole. The storage device is configured to contain the panel in a compressed state. The storage device may be a secondary impermeable pouch, a set of rigid or semi-rigid platforms, or a set of restraint devices. The packaging system may be compressed using a press. |
| US08333277B2 |
Paint roller sleeve storage container
A storage container for paint roller sleeve includes a lid of a container in which the lid of the container has a hole in its center and a slit that extends radially to the circumferential edge of the lid to permit the roller frame to be remain attached to the roller sleeve while the roller sleeve is housed within the container via this slit. A strap holds at one end a plug for insertion into the hole in the center of the lid and at the other end of the strap a hinge fastens the strap to the lid. |
| US08333275B2 |
Portable jar holder
A tray for holding canning jars comprising a plurality of wells arranged in a first row, second row and third row, each well comprising a bottom surface with ridges. The ridges in the first and third rows comprise an inner circle, two first opposing crescents, and two second opposing crescents. The ridges in the second row comprise a first semicircle and a second semicircle. The two first opposing crescents are situated opposite one another, and the two second opposing crescents are situated opposite one another on the bottom of the well and at a ninety-degree angle relative to the first opposing crescents. The first semicircle is situated opposite the second semicircle and is closer to the center of the bottom surface of the well than the second semicircle. |
| US08333274B1 |
Sorting system with linear synchronous motor drive
The present invention relates to a sorting system including a conveyor comprising a plurality of carts for carrying articles, in particular for sorting articles such as parcels and baggage. The conveyor has a linear synchronous motor drive system with stators arranged along a track which the carts follow. Accordingly, embodiments include an improved sorting system that provides an improved energy utilization and efficiency. Reaction elements are mounted on each of the carts. The reaction elements each comprise a number of permanent magnets arranged on a carrier plate. The magnets on reaction elements of adjacent carts are arranged to form a row of magnets with constant pitch and alternating polarity, said row having an interruption situated at a transition between adjacent carts. A maximum number of coils in the stator may thereby be active at the same time, when driving the conveyor. |
| US08333271B2 |
Convertible luggage
A convertible luggage or storage case having wheels and a telescoping or extending handle that may extend generally linearly from a retracted position to at least one, and preferably a plurality, of extended positions, so that case may be wheeled from one location to another. Handle may include a pair of arms and a cross-piece and also may pivot about an end opposite the cross-piece to form a leg, which may be part of a stand for case. Prior to pivoting, a second leg having a pair of arms and a cross-piece may be located generally coplanar with the handle or first leg, preferably in the interior space between arms. The second leg may pivot at a point between the cross-piece and the opposite end, and an end of the second leg may be located in a groove. As such, the first and second legs may cooperate to form a stand for the case, elevating the case for convenience. |
| US08333266B2 |
Brake system and method and two-wheeled vehicle using the same
In the specification and drawing a new brake system and a two-wheeled vehicle using the same are described. The new brake system includes a first brake to apply a first brake force on a first wheel of a vehicle and transfers the first brake force to physically actuate a second brake to brake a second wheel of the vehicle. A new-designed cantilever brake is disclosed to transfer the first brake force to actuate the second brake. |
| US08333265B2 |
Elevator system with regulated input power
A device (22) manages power source variations in an elevator system. The device includes a transformer (60) having a primary (62) and a secondary (64). An input of the elevator system is connected to the secondary (64). Tap switches (66a, 66b, 66c, 66d) are connected to the transformer (60) such that each tap switch is connected to a tap point (68a, 68b, 68c, 68d) on the transformer (60). A controller (54) operates the tap switches (66a, 66b, 66c, 66d) based on a sensed power source output to provide power on the secondary (64) within a tolerance band of the elevator system. |
| US08333264B2 |
Side cover having fluid level control for a transmission
A side cover for use in a transmission includes an inner surface and a wall. The wall extends along the outer periphery of the side cover. The inner surface and the wall cooperate to define a cavity. A fluid control valve is disposed in the bottom of the side cover within the cavity. The fluid control valve controls the height of hydraulic fluid in the side cover by varying flow to the sump. The cavity includes a fluid storage portion in communication with the valve. The fluid storage portion has a volume that is greater at a bottom of the side cover than at a top of the side cover. The fluid storage portion controls the pressure of the hydraulic fluid at the valve. |
| US08333262B1 |
Reconfigurable, modular ergonomic sit harness or saddle
A reconfigurable, modular ergonomic sit harness or saddle for use by linesmen, arborists, or the like includes a gender-specific back pad assembly that supports a number of removable, optional attachments allowing customization for user preference or job environment. Gender-specific angled wing portions of the back pad contain an armor layer and extra padding to protect the bony protrusions of both the male and female pelvis. A “one size fits all” approach includes a waistband having length adjustability over approximately a 3:1 range. Each component and sub-system of the sit harness is ergonomically designed to maximize comfort and minimize stresses on a user's body. The back pad features interchangeable lumbar support pads. Optional, removable features include a seat, an abdominal support, and a body harness for use with a fall restraint device. Interchangeable suspension bridges allow user attachment to a wide range of support systems. |
| US08333260B1 |
Deep insertion vented earpiece system
A deep insertion vented earpiece system is described including resilient earpieces shaped to a wearer's ear canal for a conformal fit. A receptacle is provided within the outer surface of each earpiece for releasably receiving an audio plug. The audio plugs include a miniature loudspeaker and a pair of external ribs for mating with a corresponding pair of grooves formed along the periphery of the receptacle. This rib and groove feature provides for a secure retention of the audio plugs while enabling a simple removal operation. Each earpiece includes an audio passage to conduct the audio signal from the loudspeaker and a vent passage to enable continuous venting of the wearer's ear to atmosphere. |
| US08333257B2 |
Object movement system and method
Systems and methods for moving objects facilitate quick and inexpensive relocation of the target objects. Operator safety is enhanced by eliminating the need to apply manual force to urge a target object into motion, and by inclusion of features such as automatic braking responsive to motor cut-off. Through use of the present system, a user may move a target object, for example a trailer intended for use behind a vehicle, into and/or out of a storage location in a simplified and more efficient manner. |
| US08333254B2 |
Steering mechanism with a ring disposed about an outer diameter of a drill bit and method for drilling
In one aspect of the present invention, a steering assembly for downhole directional drilling comprises a drill bit comprising a cutting portion and an outer diameter. A steering ring disposed around the outer diameter, and at least one biasing mechanism disposed intermediate the outer diameter and the steering ring. The at least one biasing mechanism is configured to move the steering ring with respect to the outer diameter. |
| US08333247B2 |
Hydro-pneumatic extinguisher
The present disclosure provides for an advantageous extinguisher or discharge assembly. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for an improved hydro-pneumatic fire extinguisher or discharge assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for an improved hydro-pneumatic fire extinguisher or discharge assembly that is configured and dimensioned to fire or release a fire fighting agent (e.g., a fluid and/or liquid based fire fighting agent) while the extinguisher/assembly is oriented in any position or angle relative to gravity. |
| US08333242B2 |
Thermothickener polymer and surfactant composition and methods of employing the composition
A thermothickening composition includes a surfactant; and a thermothickening polymer that is the product of at least the following monomers: a non-ionic hydrosoluble unsaturated amide monomer; an ionic monomer; and an unsaturated dicarboxylic acid half ester having a heat sensitive functional group. |
| US08333240B2 |
Reduced carbon footprint settable compositions for use in subterranean formations
An example method of cementing in a subterranean formation includes determining a settable composition for use in the subterranean formation; calculating a total carbon footprint of the settable composition; determining at least one additive for use in the settable composition, wherein the additive replaces at least a portion of the settable composition and reduces the total carbon footprint of the settable composition; preparing the settable composition comprising the additive; placing the settable composition comprising the additive in the subterranean formation; and allowing the settable composition comprising the additive to set in the subterranean formation. Additional embodiments of the present invention include determining an amount of reduction in the carbon footprint of the settable composition; and/or communicating the amount of reduction in the carbon footprint of the settable composition to a customer or end user. |
| US08333235B2 |
Heat dissipation system with a plate evaporator
A heat dissipation system is provided. The heat dissipation system includes: an evaporator having a plate chamber with the wick structures which has a plurality of pore sizes arranged in the plate chamber, a condenser, a vapor line, and a liquid line. The two-phase circulation of the vapor-condensate in the heat dissipation system, especially in the heat dissipation system with a plate evaporator, can effectively increase the heat conductivity of the plate heat source such as electronic chip. The design and composition of the wick structures are enormously decreased the turning-on temperature of the heat dissipation system and maintained the heat dissipation system in the balancing state under the low heat source power. |
| US08333230B2 |
Casting methods
A casting device includes a covered crucible having a top opening and a bottom orifice, a lid covering the top opening, a stopper rod sealing the bottom orifice, and a reusable mold having at least one chamber, a top end of the chamber being open to and positioned below the bottom orifice and a vacuum tap into the chamber being below the top end of the chamber. A casting method includes charging a crucible with a solid material and covering the crucible, heating the crucible, melting the material, evacuating a chamber of a mold to less than 1 atm absolute through a vacuum tap into the chamber, draining the melted material into the evacuated chamber, solidifying the material in the chamber, and removing the solidified material from the chamber without damaging the chamber. |
| US08333229B2 |
Draft arrester
A draft arrester for an overhead door. An exemplary embodiment may include a flexible draft curtain extending between a ceiling structure and a wound-up portion of the overhead door. The draft arrester may include a follower assembly, which may include one or more rollers arranged to roll against the overhead door. An exemplary embodiment may include a repositionable arm arranged to press the rollers against the wound-up portion of the door. |
| US08333226B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having first axial grooves and circumferential grooves including wavy circumferential groove
A pneumatic tire comprises a tread portion (2) provided with a wavy circumferential groove (7) and a plurality of axial grooves (4). At the junction (5) of each axial groove (4) with the wavy circumferential groove (7), a acute-angled corner (6) is formed. At the junction (5), the axial groove (4) has a toe-side edge (4r) intersecting a junction-side edge (7a) of the wavy circumferential groove (7) at a first point (P1), and a heel-side edge (4f) intersecting the junction-side edge (7a) at a third point (P3). The first point (P1) is positioned between a second intersecting point (P2) and a junction-side maximum amplitude points (RL0) wherein the second intersecting point (P2) is that between the junction-side edge (7a) and a maximally-inclined tangent (Ka) to an opposite-of-junction-side edge (7b) of the wavy circumferential groove (7), and the junction-side maximum amplitude point (RL0) is a point on the junction-side edge (7a) at which the junction-side edge (7a) protrude maximally towards the junction-side. |
| US08333220B2 |
Double layer woven fabric
A double layer woven fabric for use in various applications, including recreational applications such as pool covers. The fabric is formed by two layers of yarns secured together. At least one layer (and, in one embodiment, both layers) of yarns comprises at least two types of yarn of differing geometrical shapes that are preferably positioned alternately across the fabric. The yarns of one shape help to block sunlight while the yarns of the other shape help to ensure that open channels are formed through the fabric for water flow. |
| US08333216B2 |
Blow-off valve for turbo blower
A blow-off valve for a turbo blower 1000 has a body part 100 which includes a cylinder part 110, a valve-guide plate 130 on the cylinder part 110 and a head part 150 covering the valve-guide plate 130. In the cylinder part 110, a blow-connection opening 1038 connected with a blow opening 2500 of the turbo blower 2000 and a blow-off opening 1058 to blow off the emission air from the turbo blower 2000. A spool valve 300 is provided and a blow-pressure spool 380 is located at space connected with the blow-connection opening 1038 and a blow-pressure opposing spool 330 is located between the valve-guide plate 130 and the head part 150 and a stem of the spool valve penetrates the valve-guide plate 130 and is supported thereby. A three-way solenoid valve 20 is mounted on the head part 150. |
| US08333209B2 |
Lattice supporting framework
A lattice support structure has lattice bars pivotally connected to one another and extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure as well as lattice bars connecting them, with the connecting lattice bars being connected directly or indirectly to the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction such that the spacing of the lattice bars extending in the longitudinal direction of the lattice support structure can be decreased on the inward folding of the lattice support structure and increased on the folding apart of the lattice support structure. |
| US08333197B2 |
Multiple dose condensation aerosol devices and methods of forming condensation aerosols
Devices and methods of entraining a substance within an airflow are disclosed. Condensation aerosol delivery devices and methods of consistently producing multiple doses of a substance, such as a drug, having high purity, high yield, characterized by a particle size distribution appropriate for pulmonary delivery, and which can be administered to a user in a single dose are also disclosed. |
| US08333194B2 |
High flow therapy device utilizing a non-sealing respiratory interface and related methods
A high flow therapy system including a microprocessor, a heating element a non-sealing respiratory interface and a sensor is disclosed. The heating element is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is capable of heating a liquid to create a gas. The non-sealing respiratory interface is configured to deliver the gas to a patient. The sensor is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is configured to measure pressure in an upper airway of the patient. |
| US08333191B2 |
Method and arrangement for detecting a leak in anesthesia system
A method and arrangement for detecting a leak in an anesthesia system. The method includes controlling respiratory movements by means of ventilator gas flows and measuring the ventilator gas flow added for an inspiration and removed for an expiration. The method also includes supplying a fresh gas flow for a respiration and measuring the fresh gas flow added for the respiration. The method further includes receiving information indicative of the measured gas flows, determining based on said received information both the gas volume added and the gas volume removed and comparing these determined gas volumes to each other. The method also includes determining based on comparing the anesthesia system leakage. |
| US08333186B2 |
Parabolic trough solar reflector with an independently supported collector tube
A parabolic trough solar collector system has a parabolic reflector used with an independently supported collector tube. The parabolic reflector has a reflective surface formed on a reflective surface support structure, supported by a circular support beam. This assembly rests on a plurality of support and drive rollers supported by a roller support arm, supported by a roller support column. The parabolic reflector assembly rotates against the rollers along a single axis to maintain a focus line of the parabolic reflector surface at the same location as the center of the circle described by the outer edge of the circular support beam. Located at this same focus line is the independently supported collector tube not attached to the parabolic trough reflector. The collector tube is supported on pipe roller hangers, which in turn are supported by a wire catenary system connected to support towers which straddle the parabolic reflector. |
| US08333185B1 |
Solar fluid heater and applications for the same
This invention provides a solar fluid heating assembly that generally increases efficiency by reflecting the sun's energy onto heat generating surfaces that face away from the sun. It also provides an aesthetic structure that is readily installed in a variety of outdoor settings and can be used as a boundary fence in certain applications. In an illustrative embodiment, the solar heater comprises one or more conduits and a reflective mechanism, such that in use, heat energy falls onto a front surface of the conduit, thereby heating water or another fluid within the conduit, and heat energy is reflected by the reflective mechanism onto another surface of the conduit, thereby further heating the fluid within the conduit. The assembly can include one or more conduits between a first and a second panel, wherein at least one outwardly facing portion of the first panel is substantially transparent to solar heat energy passing therethrough in the direction of the conduits and at least one portion, typically an inner surface, of the second panel orientated toward the conduits is reflective of solar heat energy. The second panel can be curved or corrugated. This illustrative assembly includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The assembly can be a standalone unit, or an assembly (fence) of interconnected operative sections. The assembly can be used to heat shower water, among other applications. |
| US08333183B2 |
Cooking range including an air circulation mechanism
A cooking range includes a cook top section having a heating body configured to cook foods; an oven section having a cavity and a door, wherein the cavity has a rack configured to accommodate foods and the door is configured to open or close the cavity; a heating source configured to provide heat to the cavity when the cooking range is operated; and an air circulation mechanism having a first duct, a second duct and a fan and configured to discharge air provided from the first duct positioned at a surface of the cavity through the second duct in response to rotation of the fan, wherein the air circulation mechanism is configured to discharge air from the top section through the second duct while the air provided from the first duct is discharged. |
| US08333181B1 |
Paintball marker with quick access receiver
A paintball marker with a barrel having a bore dimensioned to receive a frangible projectile. The marker has a receiver defining an interior cavity with a breech area. The receiver includes a flip top portion that is, in some embodiments, pivotally connected to the receiver. The flip top portion is configured to pivot between an open position that provides access to the interior cavity and a closed position that blocks access to the interior cavity. A valve arrangement is provided to selectively allow flow between a supply of compressed gas and the breech area to propel frangible projectiles through the barrel. The marker has a firing assembly configured to actuate the valve arrangement in response to actuation of a trigger. |
| US08333180B2 |
Moveable arrow rest
An arrow rest for supporting an arrow shaft with respect to an archery bow. A support element is moveably mounted between a first position or a load position and a second position or a launch position. In the launch position, the arrow shaft can be forced into, such as by the forces of gravity, a centered location or a preferred shooting position. |
| US08333179B2 |
Method for taking the outgassing of fuel from the engine oil of an internal combustion engine into account
The invention deals with a method for operating an internal combustion engine with engine oil as the lubricant, wherein a fuel mass flow outgassing from the engine oil is ascertained and is taken into account via a map-based pilot control during the metering of a quantity of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine and wherein a fuel/air ratio supplied to the internal combustion engine is determined. Provision is made in the method according to the invention for a mass flow offset determined from the deviation of the fuel/air ratio supplied to the internal combustion engine from a nominal value to be taken into account when the metering of the quantity of fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine occurs during an effective duration of the map-based pilot control. The mass flow offset takes the deviation into account, which remained after the correction by a map-based pilot control of the quantity of fuel metered, on the basis of the modeled outgassing of fuel from the engine oil, and said mass flow offset balances the lambda controller in this way. The mass flow offset can by way of example have the effect of shortening the duration injection. The mixture deviations as a result of different boiling curves of the components of the fuel blend, which cannot be completely taken into account by the map-based pilot control under all operating conditions of the internal combustion engine, can in this way be compensated. |
| US08333177B2 |
Motor vehicle fuel system having multiple fuel tanks
A fuel system (10) of an engine (16) has a first fuel tank (12), a second fuel tank (14), and a pump (36) for pumping fuel from the tanks to the engine. A first valve mechanism (32) is selectively operable to a first position that allows fuel to be pumped concurrently from both the first and second tanks to the engine, a second position that allows fuel to be pumped from the first tank, but not the second, and a third position that allows fuel to be pumped from the second tank, but not the first. A second valve mechanism (34) is selectively operable to a first position that allows fuel to return from the engine concurrently to both the first and second tanks, a second position that allows fuel to return to the first tank, but not the second, and a third position that allows fuel to return to the second tank, but not the first. |
| US08333170B2 |
Buckstay system
A buckstay system is described comprising horizontal buckstays for the walls of a steam generator, for example in plural vertically space assemblies tied with vertical buckstays, in which a buckstay extends generally horizontally across each wall such as to form a connected pair with an adjacent buckstay at each corner; an elongate tie bar formation extends across each wall such as to form a fixedly mounted pair with an adjacent tie bar formation at each corner; an anchor assembly associated with each buckstay and providing engagement means by which each buckstay engages with a respective tie bar; and each horizontal buckstay is split to comprise at least two rigid elongate buckstay elements mounted together to be relatively slideable in a buckstay longitudinal direction. |
| US08333168B2 |
Top-fill hummingbird feeder with twist bottle valve
A liquid bird feeder provides a liquid container having a sealable top opening and a bottleneck extension at its other end, and a liquid tray having a well adapted to receive the bottleneck extension and at least one feeding port. The sidewall of the well is provided with at least one drain hole and the sidewall of the bottleneck extension with at least one port. The container and bottleneck extension are rotatable within the well to selectively align and misalign the port with the well drain hole to respectively open and close the drain hole upon rotation of the container. In an alternate embodiment, the bottleneck extension is fitted with a collar rotatable with the container. The collar is received in the liquid tray well and includes at least one port. A liquid flow path is formed in the liquid tray for each feeding port to reduce the volume of nectar in the tray at any given time. |
| US08333164B2 |
Coating apparatus comprising a metering device
A coating apparatus for serially coating workpieces with different shades or colors is disclosed. A metering device comprises a plunger-type dosing mechanism or a metering pump that has a separate inlet with an integrated color valve for each of the most commonly used colors is located in or near the sprayer of the coating apparatus. A separate color changer can be provided for less frequently used colors. The outlet of said color changer may be connected to another inlet of the metering mechanism or to the discharge valve of the sprayer via a separate metering mechanism. |
| US08333162B2 |
Covered marine deck structure for rope contact
A marine deck structure for rope contact having an impermeable cover for the purpose of preventing chaffing and wear of ropes is disclosed. Provided is a marine deck structure, such as a bullnose, or H-Bit covered with a durable impermeable cover that protects the structure from the harsh elements and provides a smooth low abrading surface. In another embodiment, rope chaffing surfaces on a marine vessel or dock are covered with an impermeable cover to reduce rope wear. The impermeable cover in one embodiment comprises ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). A number of ways of covering the marine deck structures are provided, such as positioning cover sheets around or on the support member and attaching the cover by, for example, welding, adhering, or thermally shrinking. |
| US08333161B2 |
Seed furrow closing apparatus
A seed furrow closing wheel has a generally dish-shaped body defined by a central portion and a notched outer flange portion that circumscribes the central portion and projects obliquely outwardly from the plane thereof. The notched flange portion is configured to present a series of circumferentially spaced, non-radial, obliquely projecting teeth that function to fragment and squeeze together opposite sidewalls of the seed furrow when a pair of the wheels are rolled along opposite sides of the furrow outboard of the furrow itself, crumbling the sidewalls and covering the seeds. |
| US08333160B2 |
Detachable tool cart
Disclosed is a detachable tool cart comprising a main frame, at least a toolbox and at least a handle. The main frame includes poles standing in parallel and wire plates. Each pole has a wheel, and each wire plate has rings designated around to be locked upon corresponding poles. A position assembly is applied to fix a ring on the pole and, therefore, the poles and the wire plates construct a layered main frame. The toolbox includes two polygonal box members which are able to be placed on the wire plate with trays for placing tools or parts. The handle has two sleeves to clasp onto corresponding poles. |
| US08333156B2 |
Method and device for controlling the drive of a magnetic levitation vehicle on a magnetic levitation track
A method provides for the traction control of a maglev car on a maglev track. A levitation magnetic field is produced by supplying a levitation magnetic flux on the car side to at least two levitation magnets to produce a defined air gap between the maglev car and a reaction rail on the track side. A stator current is supplied to the stator to produce a propulsion force on the maglev track, the propulsion force acts upon the maglev car being determined by the magnetic coupling between the magnetic stator field and the magnetic levitation field. An oscillating movement of the maglev car in relation to the magnetic stator field is dampened by changing the magnetic coupling between the magnetic stator field and the magnetic levitation field on the car side. The levitation magnets are operated on the car side with at least two different individual levitation magnetic fluxes. |
| US08333150B2 |
Method for operating a web-fed printing press
A method for starting up a web-fed printing press is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes: a) a first start-up sequence is executed while using predetermined preset parameters that are specific to the printing press and/or the print job for the color register adjustment, cut-off compensator control and the ink density control; b) the web-fed printing press is subsequently stopped, where copies printed during the first start-up sequence are evaluated with respect to the color register, the cut-off compensator and the ink density, and where the preset parameters are adjusted as a function of this evaluation while the printing press is stopped; c) following this, a second start-up sequence is executed, where the preset parameters that are adjusted during the standstill are not used for printing until defined printing press speeds are reached and/or exceeded. |
| US08333149B2 |
Drying equipment with false air treatment for printing machines
A ventilation and drying equipment for printing machines, including ovens operable to dry solvent on a printed support travelling through the ovens passages into and out of the ovens through which false or ambient air can enter the oven from the outside. At least one false air suppression device for which each printing unit covers at least one of the passages and which is maintained at a pressure lower than the air pressure inside the oven, to prevent false air from entering the oven through the at least one passage. Each false air suppression device is connected with a common recirculation duct in order to share the false air coming from each printing unit with the whole press. |
| US08333146B2 |
Twine end wrap adjustment for agricultural baler
An end wrap adjustment that may be used with an agricultural baler twine wrapping system. More particularly, an end wrap adjustment for improved adjustment of the end wrap location, without the use of tools. The end wrap adjustment provides for the adjustment of the location of the twine at the ends of the bale depending on one or more factors, such as the crop type, storage conditions, operator preference, etc. On one side, the twine dispensing assembly may include a first end wrap adjustment for controlling the position of the twine arm, and hence the twine with respect to an end or side of the bale when the bale wrapping system is in an extended position. On an opposite side, the twine cutting assembly may include a second end wrap adjustment for controlling the position of the twine with respect to an opposite end or side of the bale when the bale wrapping system is in a home position. |
| US08333141B2 |
Recoil absorbing assembly for automatic weapons
A recoil absorbing assembly is provided for automatic weapons secured to a weapon cradle having a fixed portion and a portion movable longitudinally thereto, the fixed cradle portion being rotatably mounted to a support, including a recoil absorbing spring and friction device arranged in connection with the cradle portions. Further the friction device includes a main shaft provided with angled friction blocks and a movable bearing housing surrounding the main shaft and having free floating pistons as to cooperate with the friction blocks, the recoil absorbing spring being situated on the main shaft in elongation of the bearing housing. |
| US08333134B1 |
Nut driver with nut selecting capability
A nut driver includes a nut driver handle; a nut driver shank extending from the nut driver handle; a nut driver socket having a socket opening on the nut driver shank; at least a portion of at least one of the nut driver handle, the nut driver shank and the nut driver socket having one of a plurality of colors; and a plurality of colored nut selection strips having a plurality of lengths, respectively, on the nut driver shank. One of the nut selection strips has the same color as at least a portion of at least one of the nut driver handle, the nut driver shank and the nut driver socket. The plurality of lengths, respectively, of the plurality of colored nut selection strips corresponds to a plurality of nut sizes, respectively. |
| US08333133B2 |
System to enable high speed operation of socket type ratchet wrenches and other tools
A drive system cooperates with other tools, such as the drive mechanism of a socket type ratchet wrench to enable a user to use the wrench for its intended purpose at high speed by pulling an endless belt. The belt is contained within a chamber created by the attachment system in a manner to allow the belt to engage with an outer surface of a pulley. The pulley connected to the drive shaft of the socket type ratchet wrench to cause force to be transferred from the belt to the wrench drive shaft. The system utilized a cover operably coupled to the pulley to contain the belt while minimizing interference with the wrench. The cover contains the belt while also allowing an opposite end of the belt to hang loose and thus be easily accessible by a user. |
| US08333129B2 |
Robotic manipulator arm
In one embodiment, a robotic manipulator arm includes a robotic joint, a rotational position sensor, and a control system. The rotational position sensor is coupled to the main housing of the robotic joint. The control system is connected to the rotational position sensor. During normal rotational motion toward a commanded motor position of joint output, the control system determines that normal joint un-slipped motion is occurring with respect to the joint output in response to the motor input commands. Responsive to joint slip during commanded motor motion, the control system compares position data from the rotational position sensor to commanded motor position to generate an error value and, based on the error value, compensates for the joint slip. |
| US08333127B2 |
Seven speed dual clutch transmission with four axes of rotation
A transmission connectable to an input member and has an output member, first and second transmission input shaft members, first and second countershaft members, a reverse shaft, a plurality of co-planar gear sets and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include a plurality of synchronizer assemblies and a dual clutch assembly. The transmission is operable to provide at least one reverse speed ratio and a plurality of forward speed ratios between the transmission input members and the output member. |
| US08333125B2 |
Environmentally friendly, energy-economic system for testing fuel cell stacks
Disclosed is a system with which fuel cell stacks can be tested automatically or manually so that production of pollutants and consumption of electricity are little. The system runs various analyses and tests on the fuel cell stacks and provides operative conditions such as temperatures and fluid flows needed in the tests. |
| US08333123B2 |
Sample processing apparatus and sample information display apparatus
A sample processing apparatus comprising: a plurality of measuring units, each of which measures a sample; a sample conveyance unit for conveying a sample to at least one of the plurality of measurement units; a display unit; and a display controller for controlling the display unit to display an analysis result of a sample which the analysis result has been obtained based on the measurement by at least one of the plurality of measurement units, and controlling the display unit to display conveyance status information indicating a conveyance status of the sample which analysis result has not been obtained yet based on the measurement by at least one of the plurality of measurement units, is disclosed. A sample information display apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US08333120B2 |
Measuring transducer of vibration-type, as well as an in-line measuring device having such a measuring transducer
A measuring transducer comprises: a transducer housing, an inlet-side, flow divider having exactly four spaced flow openings and an outlet-side, housing end by means of an outlet-side, flow divider having exactly four spaced flow openings; as well as exactly four, straight, measuring tubes connected to the flow dividers. Each of the four measuring tubes opens with an inlet-side, measuring tube end into one the flow openings and with an outlet-side, measuring tube end into one the flow openings of the outlet-side, flow divider. Additionally, the measuring transducer includes an electromechanical exciter mechanism, wherein the exciter mechanism is embodied in such a manner, that, therewith, the measuring tubes are excitable pairwise to execute opposite phase bending oscillations in, in each case, a shared imaginary plane of oscillation. The measuring transducer is suitable, especially, for measuring a density and/or a mass flow rate of a medium flowing in a pipeline, at least at times, with a mass flow rate of more than 2200 t/h. |
| US08333115B1 |
Inspection apparatus and method for irregular shaped, closed cavity structures
An ultrasonic inspection apparatus operable within a channel associated with a structure is described. The apparatus includes at least one transducer and a holder. The holder includes a material having a flexibility and tensile strength such that a spring force is provided for maintaining a position of said holder within the channel of the structure. The holder includes a plurality of transducer indexing nodes therein for mounting of the transducers, and each node provides a single point of contact between the holder and the transducer. The transducer indexing nodes are fabricated having a material flexibility and tensile strength with respect to a remainder of the holder for positioning of the transducers along surface variances that define the channel. |
| US08333114B2 |
Microstructure inspecting device, and microstructure inspecting method
A microstructure inspecting device 10 which measures a damping characteristic value of a moving portion of a microstructure includes a pressure wave generating device 1 and a pulse generating device 2 which apply an impact to the moving portion without directly contacting the microstructure, and a vibrometer 4 which measures a displacement of the moving portion for a predetermined period of time after the start of free vibration of the moving portion without contacting the moving portion. The pressure wave generating device 1 is a sound wave generating element of thermal excitation type, a piezoelectric sound wave generating element, or an electromagnetic vibration element, and is driven by a pulse signal of the pulse generating device 2. The pressure wave generating device 1 using the sound wave generating element of thermal excitation type may include a thermally conductive substrate, a heat-insulating layer formed of nano-crystal silicon in one principal surface of the substrate, an insulating layer formed on the heat-insulating layer, and a conductive layer formed on the insulating layer and emitting heat when being supplied with current containing alternating current components. |
| US08333113B2 |
Triaxial acceleration sensor
An acceleration sensor includes a substrate and a first mass element, which is connected to the substrate in such a way that the first mass element is rotatable about an axis, the first mass element being connected to a second mass element in such a way that the second mass element is movable along a first direction parallel to the axis, and the first mass element being connected to a third mass element in such a way that the third mass element is movable along a second direction perpendicular to the axis. |
| US08333112B2 |
Frequency tuning of disc resonator gyroscopes via resonator mass perturbation based on an identified model
Techniques for reducing the frequency split between the Coriolis-coupled modes in disc resonator gyroscopes (DRGs) by perturbing the mass distribution on the disc resonator based on an identified model are disclosed. A model-identification method of tuning a resonator comprises perturbing the mass and measuring a frequency response matrix of the resonator. The frequency response matrix includes a plurality of inputs and a plurality of outputs and the resonator has a plurality of coupled resonance modes. A reduced structural mechanics matrix model of the resonator in sensor and actuator coordinates is identified from the measured frequency response matrix and analyzed to determine generalized eigenvectors of the structural mechanics model and their variations due to selected mass perturbations which is then estimated to improve degeneracy of the plurality of coupled resonance modes based on the generalized eigenvectors of the mass and the stiffness. |
| US08333110B2 |
Device for analyzing the step-by-step injection rate provided by a fuel injection system used in a high power heat engine
The invention relates to a device that includes: a first chamber (3) for measuring a constant volume, and in which the fuel is injected; pressure (5a, 5b) and temperature (6) sensors associated with said first chamber (3); and a second measuring chamber (8) located downstream from the first, into which the fuel drained from the first chamber is sent. The volume of the second chamber (8) varies according to the movement of a piston (11), the movement of which is measured by means of a sensor (13). One or more additional measuring chambers (8a, 8b, . . . 8n) of variable volumes are connected in parallel with the second chamber (8) and also receive the fuel drained from the first chamber (3), the volumes received in said different chambers being added up to obtain the total volume supplied for a single injection step. The device can be used for high injection rates. |
| US08333108B2 |
Detection system for localizing defective seals in heat exchangers
The present invention relates to the field of automotive heat exchanger assemblies, and, in particular, assemblies with cores with headers and end tanks and/or male and female connections. The present invention also relates to a method of making a positive leak path to determine leaks prior to employment of heat exchanger assembles. The present invention further relates to a method of determining whether or not a leak seal is temporary by providing a positive leak path at the point of assembly or initial evaluation or testing a heat exchanger. |
| US08333103B2 |
Calibration of a force measuring system for large bend angles of a catheter
A method for calibrating a force measuring probe comprises providing a probe having an insertion tube with a distal tip, a joint comprising a resilient member, a joint sensor in conjunction with a processor coupled to the probe wherein the processor has a memory of an axial displacement threshold for the joint stored therein; applying force to the distal tip; measuring the displacement and deflection of the distal tip; correlating the measured displacement and deflection of the distal tip to the applied force and storing the correlation in the memory until reaching the axial displacement threshold; applying force greater than the axial displacement threshold to the distal tip to define a new force value; measuring the position of the distal tip in a plane transverse to the direction of force exerted on the distal tip; correlating the measured position of the distal tip in the plane transverse to the direction of force to the new force value and storing the correlation in the memory until reaching a pre-established upper limit for the new force value. |
| US08333101B2 |
Shiftable transfer apparatus for transferring workpiece to press
A shiftable workpiece transfer apparatus for transferring a workpiece to a press while simultaneously shifting the workpiece centerline. Such a transfer apparatus includes cooperating workpiece transfer tables, the movement of which is directed by respective guide rails. A first workpiece transfer table is directed along a path that is substantially parallel to the centerline of the press line. The second workpiece transfer table is directed along a path that is skewed with respect to the centerline of the press line by an amount sufficient to produce a desired shift of the workpiece centerline. As the second transfer table moves along the skewed guide rail and toward the first transfer table, the workpiece is automatically moved across the surface of the first transfer table to a desired centerline offset point. |
| US08333098B2 |
Bending method
A bending method for forming, in a material in which several straight portions extending in parallel with each other and a first-end side coupling portion and a second-end side coupling portion provided alternately to couple first-end portions and second-end portions, respectively, of adjacent ones of the straight portions with each other are successively formed, folded portions respectively in a pair of the straight portions provided on both sides of the first-end side coupling portion. A length from one of the folded portions to the first-end side coupling portion is different from a length from the other of the folded portions. The bending method includes shaping the material such that the first-end side coupling portion is inclined with respect to a direction orthogonal to the pair of the straight portions in accordance with a difference between the lengths of the folded portions to be respectively formed in both the straight portions; and thereafter forming the folded portions in both the straight portions at the same time. The folded portions being bent in the same direction as each other. |
| US08333096B2 |
Method of forming three-dimensional multi-plane beam
A method includes, in combination, a roll former with rolls configured to form a structural beam from sheet material, and a sweep unit for longitudinally sweeping a beam in any of vertical, horizontal, or combination directions. The sweep unit has a first pair of forming rolls positioned to engage first opposing sides of the structural beam and has a second pair of forming rolls positioned to engage second opposing sides of the structural beam. The sweep unit movably supports the first and second pairs of forming rolls so that any selected one of the forming rolls continuously engages an associated side of the structural beam while an associated one of the forming rolls opposing the selected one forming roll moves downstream and around the selected one forming roll. This provides a very stable beam-bending condition promoting dimensional stability during the sweeping process, and hence dimensional accuracy and repeatability. |
| US08333090B2 |
Process for manufacturing a low-attenuation optical fiber
A process for manufacturing an optical fiber, includes the steps of: a) producing a soot core preform by depositing a core material on a substrate; b) removing the substrate from the soot preform leaving an axial cavity along the longitudinal axis of the soot core preform; (c) drying and consolidating the soot core preform so as to obtain a glass core preform having an axial hole corresponding to the axial cavity; d) reducing a diameter of the axial hole; and e) stretching the glass core preform so as to substantially close the axial hole, wherein the process further includes the step of measuring at least one geometric characteristic of the axial hole of the glass core preform. |
| US08333086B2 |
Condenser and cooling device
In the condenser provided with two of the degassing chambers separated by a cooling fluid, communication between the degassing chambers is prevented even if a pressure difference is increased between the degassing chambers. The condenser has the housing having the vapor inflow port connectable to the discharge portion of the compressor, the first degassing chamber, in the housing, communicating with the vapor inflow port, and the second degassing chamber, in the housing, arranged above the first degassing chamber across the partition portion, and the passing portion for permitting a cooling fluid to flow from the second degassing chamber to the first degassing chamber, wherein the first degassing chamber is separated from the second degassing chamber by the cooling fluid in the passing portion, and the passing portion has a pressure head space for containing a specified volume of cooling fluid so as to absorb a variation in a pressure difference between the first degassing chamber and the second degassing chamber. |
| US08333082B2 |
Condensate/water leak control switch
An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch. |
| US08333081B2 |
Ice dispensing technology
An ice-making device includes a duct through which ice is dispensed and a duct-covering part opening and closing the duct. A sensor part senses whether the duct-covering part closes the duct and a control part controls the duct-covering part to open the duct when the sensor part senses that the duct-covering part fails to close the duct and the duct-covering part has been attempting to close the duct for at least a preset period of time. |
| US08333078B2 |
Method and system for controlling an aircraft air conditioning system with optimised fuel consumption
In a method for controlling an aircraft air conditioning system, a correlation is established between a plurality of values of a process air mass flow supplied to an air conditioning unit of the aircraft air conditioning system and the fuel consumption of the aircraft. A correlation is also established between a plurality of values of an ambient air mass flow which is used to cool the process air mass flow supplied to the air conditioning unit of the aircraft air conditioning system and the fuel consumption of the aircraft. The process air mass flow and the ambient air mass flow are controlled in dependence on a predetermined cooling capacity of the aircraft air conditioning system such that the fuel consumption of the aircraft is minimized. |
| US08333077B2 |
Replaceable orifice for combustion tuning and related method
A boss and orifice plate assembly comprising an annular boss adapted to be secured in a hole formed in a combustor component, said boss formed with an annular seat supporting a replaceable orifice plate, and an annular retaining ring groove adjacent said seat, said seat extending radially inwardly of said annular retaining ring groove; and a retaining ring seated in said retaining ring groove and at least partially and resiliently engaged between a surface of said groove and a surface of said orifice plate. |
| US08333074B2 |
Method and apparatus for incorporating a low pressure fluid into a high pressure fluid, and increasing the efficiency of the rankine cycle in a power plant
A mixing device for incorporating a light gas at low pressure into a working fluid at a very high pressure includes a mixing section in the form of a truncated conical section between the an inlet and an outlet, a plurality of inlets for the light gas into the mixing section, and a plurality of passages through the truncated conical section into a cylindrical section leading to the outlet. |
| US08333072B2 |
Wastegate control system and method
A wastegate control system and a method for the wastegate control system is disclosed. The wastegate control system includes an ambient pressure sensor, a throttle angle sensor, an ignition timing sensor, a knock sensor, an intake charge temperature sensor and an intake charge humidity sensor. A wastegate is controlled according to information received from these sensors. |
| US08333071B2 |
Method and a system to control turbine inlet temperature
A method and system to control an engine to maintain turbine inlet temperature utilizes two temperature thresholds: a control initiation temperature and a maximum hardware temperature. An engine parameter is adjusted in a closed-loop manner based on an error, which is a difference between a setpoint temperature and the turbine inlet temperature. The setpoint temperature is initially the control initiation temperature. However, after control over turbine inlet temperature is established, the setpoint temperature ramps gradually to maximum hardware temperature. In one embodiment, the engine parameter is engine torque. Other engine parameters affecting turbine inlet temperature include timing and duration of fuel injection pulses, EGR rate, gear selection, and intake throttle position, any of which can be used in place of, or in combination with, torque for controlling turbine inlet temperature. |
| US08333070B2 |
Mechanical energy storage method and device
Provided is an energy storage system configured to accumulate energy for subsequent discharge. One embodiment includes an indirect energy storage assembly configured to accept energy input from a direct storage assembly. The indirect energy storage assembly includes a converter for lifting a mass, a speed reducer coupled to the converter for increasing torque provided, and a mass coupled to the speed reducer for generating potential energy when raised. In one embodiment, the direct energy storage assembly produces energy based on descent of a mass, the descent controlled by operation of a speed increaser coupled to a generator. In one example, the speed increaser provides an input:output ratio of at least 1:100. The speed increaser can be configured based on parameters of the generator (e.g., speed and torque). The mass of the direct energy storage assembly can include a float for lifting the mass responsive to water level. |
| US08333067B2 |
Engine and vehicle
An engine includes a cylinder, an exhaust port, an exhaust valve, a secondary air supply pipe, and an electromagnetic valve. The electromagnetic valve is opened in a predetermined time period after a point in time when a lift amount of the exhaust valve reaches about half a maximum value during a time period in which an opening of the exhaust port is opened. This causes air to be supplied from a secondary air supply pipe to the exhaust port. |
| US08333062B2 |
Method for monitoring ammonia storage in an exhaust aftertreatment system
A method for monitoring the ammonia-selective catalyst reduction device includes monitoring states of parameters of the exhaust gas feedstream upstream of the ammonia-selective catalyst reduction device, analytically segmenting the ammonia-selective catalyst reduction device into a plurality of discrete substrate elements, sequentially calculating a change in ammonia storage for each of the discrete substrate elements, and determining a total ammonia storage concentration on the ammonia-selective catalyst reduction device based upon the sequentially calculated change in ammonia storage for each of the discrete substrate elements. |
| US08333060B2 |
Micro reaction turbine with integrated combustion chamber and rotor
When the compressor is a multistage compressor, each compression space includes an inlet arranged in the vicinity of the center axis and an outlet arranged in the vicinity of the outer circumference of the turbine wheel, and there is a connecting conduit between the outlet of a first compressor stage and the inlet of a second compressor stage. The connecting conduit is delimited by a first wall of the space of the first compressor stage and a second wall of the space of the second compressor stage. Each wall can be a friction disk. |
| US08333058B2 |
Self-leveling four-bar linkage for suspending a header of an agricultural implement
A suspension system for agricultural implements having at least one floating head using a four-bar linkage and permitting the floating head to accommodate variations in ground surface elevation in a lateral or transverse direction. By permitting the floating head to float, a more consistent cutting height is realized when ground surface elevation varies in a transverse direction. A main frame is provided to which the ground engaging wheels are attached. A sub-frame is connected to the main frame via the four-bar linkage. The sub-frame is pivotally attached to the arms of the four-bar linkage by spherical bearings. |
| US08333057B2 |
Automatic header lateral tilt to ground speed response
A method for adjusting the lateral tilt of a combine header. The method includes receiving, at a control system, a plurality of output voltages from a plurality of potentiometers; determining, by the control system, at least one adjustment signal; determining, by the control system, a rate for transmitting the at least one adjustment signal; transmitting, by the control system, the at least one adjustment signal at the determined rate to at least one adjustment mechanism operably connected to control system; and adjusting, by the at least one adjustment mechanism, the lateral tilt of the combine header in response to the at least one adjustment signal. The rate for transmitting the signal is determined based upon one or more of a forward speed of the combine, the weight of the combine head, and an input selection made by an operator of the combine. |
| US08333056B2 |
Non-binding cutterhead for cutting aquatic vegetation
A cutterhead for cutting aquatic vegetation, includes a cutterhead shroud, stationary teeth secured to the shroud, and a drum rotatably mounted within the shroud and bearing a flight of vanes cooperating with the teeth to cut vegetation. In accordance with the non-binding aspect of the cutterhead, each vane has an edge that rises gradually from a trailing end adjacent (during drum rotation) to a stationary tooth, to provide a clearance area adjacent the vane into which a respective tooth may be deflected during cutting without impinging upon an associated vane, and thus without causing binding of the cutterhead in the event of such deflection. Each vane may have a curvilinear edge extending from its cutting end to a surface of the drum at its trailing end. The edge defines a two-dimensional profile having a trailing end tangent forming an angle of not more than 70 degrees with the drum. |
| US08333055B2 |
Process for filling a shrinkable container
The invention relates to a process for filling a plastic container (1) having a high degree of molecular orientation with a liquid, which process comprises the following steps: filling of the container (1) with a liquid at high temperature; cooling the walls (5) of the container (1) during the filling step; sealing of the container (1); cooling of the walls (5) of the container (1) during the sealing step; passive shrinkage of the container (1) following said sealing step; and cooling of the walls (5) of the container (1) following the shrinkage step. The invention also relates to a device for implementing said process and to a container thus obtained. |
| US08333052B2 |
Machine for filling capsules with pharmaceutical products
In a machine for filling capsules, each of which defined by a bottom and a cap, with pharmaceutical products, the bottoms and the caps of the capsules are moved forward in sequence about a plurality of wheels provided with at least two actuating members movable under the control of respective tappets engaged in respective cams to open and close the capsules themselves, respectively; the cams being obtained on the outer surface of a drum mounted to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axes of the wheels. |
| US08333049B2 |
Door assembly using a two piece end cap
This invention relates to a door assembly comprising a pair of door skins which are mechanically secured together to define a top and bottom opening. The top and bottom openings receive an end cap therein to complete the door. The end cap of the present invention is comprised of two separate pieces, namely a locking clip and a beam, whereby the locking clip is slidably engaged with the beam to form the end cap. This allows a manufacturer to form the locking clip with a first material and the beam with a second material, depending on the specific requirements of the door. |
| US08333047B2 |
Method for strengthening a structure and associated anchorage unit
The invention therefore proposes an anchorage unit for anchoring at least one prestressing member, capable of being tensioned, onto a structural component to be strengthened or repaired by additional prestressing. The anchorage unit includes means of fixing onto the structural component and means of anchoring the prestressing member located adjacent to a first side of the anchorage unit oriented towards a regular section of the prestressing member. The fixing means are located adjacent to a second side, opposite the first side, of the anchorage unit, which is so provided that it may be put into traction when the prestressing member is tensioned. |
| US08333046B2 |
Platform, in particular interior platform for tubular tower
A platform (2) in an interior platform for a tubular tower such as a windmill tower (24) made from steel is disclosed—and more specifically, a platform (2) adapted to be assembled in situ from construction element members in order to fit the inside wall (22) of the tower (24), comprising a basic, preferably circular, center module (4), radial, telescoping supporting beam members (6), wherein the construction element members are modules (10, 12 and 14) which are independent of the diameter of the platform (2), and two-piece pivotable modules (16) which incline for mounting as a periphery ring next to the inside wall (22) of the tower (24). |
| US08333043B2 |
Apparatus for thermally hygrometrically processing air, particularly for classified environments for food preparing processes
An apparatus for thermally hygrometrically processing and conditioning air for classified environments and preparing foods. The apparatus has a stainless steel inner bottom and monolithic thermally insulated panels. The panels have an outer wall and an inner wall therebetween a thermally insulating material is arranged. |
| US08333042B2 |
Slip-stop
Element to prevent slipping on surfaces, where the surfaces are provided with a plurality of apertures, characterized in that the element comprises a base plate, and that a plurality of towers extend upwards from said base plate, where the towers have a cross section at least at an upper part, corresponding to the shape of the apertures in the surface, and that the towers are arranged on the base plate in a pattern corresponding to the pattern of the apertures in the surface. |
| US08333041B2 |
Method of assembling UL compliant building integrated photovoltaic conversion system
Methods are described for integrating a UL compliant power generating system within an exterior shell or façade of a building structure. The energy generating devices (which can be photovoltaic), control units and associated power/signal wiring are incorporated and integrated within individual unitized curtain wall units making up the façade, and are adapted to be UL compliant. |
| US08333039B2 |
Movable building
A building includes a wall and a roof. The wall encloses an enclosed area, and the wall comprises a plurality of standardized modules, each having an inner space used as a room. The roof covers the enclosed area. The standardized modules are standardized, and thus very convenient to manufacture. In addition, the standardized modules can be transported quickly and efficiently, therefore, the building as disclosed is convenient and reliable to construct and dismantle. |
| US08333037B2 |
Pet door module with integral security panel and cassette portal
The present pet door panel or module includes an interior pocket flap assembly cassette opening and an external frame forming a security panel track permitting a flap assembly cassette and security panel to be slidably received or removed to facilitate changing the height of the portal opening in the pet door panel or module to accommodate various size pets in the field by the consumer without the need for tools. |
| US08333033B2 |
Device and method for growing vegetation
A device and method for growing vegetation. The device and method can be used for repairing a divot in a grass lawn. The device includes a packet having a water-soluble film surface that contains a mixture of soil and seeds. An example device includes a water-containing device in the packet. When the packet is placed on the ground, such as the divot, and subjected to water, the film dissolves so that the mixture comes into contact with the ground and the seeds can begin to germinate and grow. |
| US08333032B1 |
Encasement devices and methods for planting mangroves
Cylindrical encasement devices and methods for planting mangrove propagules or seedlings along shorelines and non-native environments. The devices can use interior (or exterior) longitudinal grooves or thinned channels or lines of holes that hinge the device along the longitudinal axis to facilitate increases in displacement which results in acceleration of plant development and adaptation, improving survivability and reproductive maturity to establish self-sustaining mangrove trees and forests. A manufacturing enables control of the structure, color and opacity, to facilitate applications in habitat creation, restoration, shoreline stabilization, erosion control, and environmental remediation. Safe and easy removal of the device from the environment occurs without harm and damage. |
| US08333031B2 |
Device and method for luring aquatic animals
Devices, methods of manufacture, kits and methods of use for attracting aquatic animals to be caught are provided. In various embodiments the device includes a body, with an interior bar extending lengthwise in a channel in the body, an anterior loop and exterior loop on the anterior end and posterior ends of the bar respectively, a plate set into a transverse dorsal exterior slot in the body, and a weight in an interior chamber. The anterior loop of the device is attached to a vessel and the posterior loop is attached to one or more lures for hooking aquatic animals. In various embodiments the device is manufactured and/or painted to resemble a bait fish. |
| US08333030B2 |
Fishing line guide for fishing rod and method for manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a fishing line guide includes a step of cutting a plate to form a guide including a holding part, a step for forming a ring-shaped holder by pressing the holding part such that a first opening is formed at one end of the holder and a second opening is formed at the other end of the holder, a step for inserting a ceramic ring into the holder to extend through the first opening and the second opening so that the ceramic ring is in contact with the inner surface of the holder in the first opening and is spaced apart from the inner surface of the holder in the second opening, and a step of filling an adhesive in a space between the ceramic ring and the inner surface of the holder in the second opening. |
| US08333029B1 |
Extreme duty machine gun barrel
An extreme duty machine gun barrel has body having a central bore. The rear opening of the body includes a chamber formed to receive a cartridge. The body has a surface layer covering all surfaces of the body. The body has a diffusion layer extending below the surface layer into an underlying material of the body. The central bore may have rifling defined by lands and grooves formed in the bore. An interior portion of the body may have a hardness of at least 50 HRC and not greater than 55 HRC after the surface layer and diffusion layer are created on the body. The surface layer and diffusion layer may be created by subjecting the body to a ferritic nitrocarburizing treatment followed by an oxy nitrocarburizing treatment. The nitrocarburizing treatments may be repeated. The body may be AISI H13 grade tool steel. |
| US08333023B2 |
Composite footwear insole, and method of manufacturing same
A composite footwear insole has a front portion (2) designed to interact with the foot at the metatarsal region and at least partly at the plantar arch, and a rear portion (3) designed to interact with the heel. The rear portion (3) has at least one layer (4) of gel material whose size is at least substantially equal to that of the rear portion (3) to uniformly support the heel and absorb stresses acting thereon. |
| US08333022B2 |
Articles of footwear
A footbed promotes complimentary movement and proprioceptive feedback of a user's foot (e.g., to help an adult balance on an uneven surface) while wearing the article of footwear. The footbed includes a base and a plurality of pads. The base has a first side opposite a second side, each extending from a forefoot region to a heel region. A first portion of each pad extends away from the first side of the base and a second portion of each pad extends away from the second side of the base. The second side of the base is positionable adjacent to an outsole of an article of footwear such that the first side of the base is adjacent a user's foot during use of the article of footwear. Each pad is movable substantially independently of the each of the other pads, relative to the base. |
| US08333019B2 |
Laundry dryer having an air duct
A laundry dryer with a blower and an air duct configured to convey a flow of air toward the blower. The air duct includes one or more flow chambers with curved sections. The curved sections are configured to deflect the flow of air toward the blower. The laundry dryer also includes a displacement member disposed in the flow chamber in front of the blower and configured to produce an irrotational flow onto a wheel of the blower so as to reduce a formation of vortices. |
| US08333016B1 |
Sundial for telling solar time and clock time across a range of latitudes and longitudes
A sundial for telling apparent solar time and clock time across a range of latitudes and longitudes. A solar dial is formed with an index point and a noon hour point. A plurality of concentric latitude indicia are centered at the index point and at least one map indicium is overlaid by the concentric latitude indicia where the map indicium has geographic latitudes corresponding with the concentric latitude indicia on the solar dial. The solar dial also includes a plurality of solar time indicia radiating generally outward from the index point drawn with respect to the noon hour point according to the hour line equation at each concentric latitude indicia intercept. An elongated gnomon projects from the index point, whereby the sun's shadow cast by the gnomon intersects the solar time indicia in relation to the concentric latitude indicia to provide a reading of apparent solar time for the user's location on the map indicium. |
| US08333014B2 |
Method of manufacturing a liquid ejecting head
A method for manufacturing a liquid ejecting head is provided. The liquid ejecting head has nozzle openings and ejects liquid supplied through a liquid supply passage from the nozzle openings. The manufacturing method includes: disposing a filtering member between a first supply member and a second supply member, the first supply member having one part of the liquid supply passage formed therein, the second supply member having the other part or another part of the liquid supply passage formed therein, the second supply member being disposed over one surface of the first supply member; and injecting a resin material over the one surface of the first supply member to cover a part of the second supply member for molding a fixation member and fixing the first supply member and the second supply member into a single-piece member as a result of the molding, wherein a convex is formed on a surface of the fixation member in the mold fixation of the first supply member and the second supply member, and a concave is formed in the surface of the fixation member in the mold fixation of the first supply member and the second supply member. |
| US08333012B2 |
Method of forming electrode placement and connection systems
Electrode placement and connection systems are described which allow for the electrical connection and maintenance of one or more electrodes positioned on a substrate which is subjected to a variety of mechanical stresses. Such a system may include an imaging hood having an aperture through which transparent fluid is flowed and one or more electrodes positioned along or about the hood. As the hood is configured between a low-profile and opened configuration, these electrodes may remain electrically coupled despite the mechanical stresses subjected to the electrodes and the connections thereto. |
| US08333002B2 |
Surface finishing method for stainless steel material and manufacturing method for metal gasket
In a surface finishing method for a stainless steel material, excimer irradiation is made on a surface of the stainless steel material by emitting ultraviolet light to improve wetness. Then, a surface finishing is applied on the surface of the stainless steel material wherein the wetness is improved. In manufacturing a gasket, the stainless steel material or plate is cut in a predetermined shape, and holes and bead are formed in the metal formation plate. Then, the plate may be assembled with other plate. |
| US08333001B2 |
Method of shortening a well car
A method of shortening an end of a well car includes removing a plurality of parts that would inhibit the shortening process; cutting a shear plate and a set of side sill angles at a location on the well side of the end assembly; detaching the end assembly from a main body of the well car; on each side of the main body: cutting the top tube at a location above a monument plate that is just beyond a reinforcement plate attached to the monument plate; cutting through a weld between the monument and reinforcement plates and a side sheet; cutting through the side sheet generally at the attachment location of the monument and reinforcement plates; and cutting the shear plate of the main body with a contoured cut such that the remaining shear plate has a contoured pattern substantially matching the cut shear plate under the removed end assembly. |
| US08332999B2 |
Method and device for securely loading and mounting a tubular device in a flexible wall and manufacturing method for said loading device
An improved method and device for securely inserting a tubular element (30) into a through-aperture (40) in a flexible wall (60) accessible from one side only. The tubular element has a retainer (31, 32) projecting transversely at each end thereof, said retainer being resiliently foldable towards the axis of said tubular element. The element is inserted into a loading tube (11), wherein the retainers are automatically folded into the correct orientation by an automatic bending means (18). The bending means is part of a self-contained device for inserting said tubular element (30) into said through-aperture (40). |
| US08332998B2 |
Shot-peening process
A method of shot peening in which with respect to a carburized and quenched metal part, only its surface abnormal layer detrimental to the fatigue strength thereof is scraped without scraping of the martensitic structure underlying the surface abnormal layer, namely, in which the fatigue strength can be rendered stable and enhanced without surface cracking. As bombardment shot, use is made of a shot with hardness higher than that (first hardness) of the surface abnormal layer occurring at a surface layer portion of metal part prior to shot peening but lower than that (second hardness) of the martensitic structure. |
| US08332997B2 |
Dental prosthesis manufacturing machine
A dental prosthesis manufacturing machine is disclosed. The machine includes two spindles each having a roughing tool and a finishing tool, a workpiece holder for holding a workpiece which forms the dental prosthesis, and a base supporting the two spindles and the workpiece holder. The machine is capable of simply alternating the roughing tool with the finishing tool according to the accuracy required when the workpiece is machined. |
| US08332996B2 |
Conductive paste composition for inner electrodes and method of manufacturing multilayer capacitor
Provided are a conductive paste composition for inner electrodes and a method of manufacturing a multilayer ceramic capacitor using the same. The conductive paste composition for inner electrodes includes a metal powder having an average particle size ranging from 50 nm to 300 nm, and 4 to 10 parts by weight of a binder resin. The binder resin contains at least one resin selected from the group consisting of a high-molecular-weight polyvinylbutyral resin having a weight-average molecular weight of 250 thousand to 400 thousand, a low-molecular-weight polyvinylbutyral resin having a weight-average molecular weight of 50 thousand to 150 thousand, and a rosin ester. |
| US08332992B2 |
Device at a card for cotton, synthetic fibres and the like, in which at least one flat bar having a flat clothing is present
In a device at a card in which at least one flat bar having a flat clothing is present, wherein the flat clothing, preferably small wire hooks, arranged in a strip-shaped supporting layer, is attached to the flat bar and lies opposite to the clothing of a roller, for example of the cylinder, and at least the regions of the flat clothing that face the flat bar consist of an iron material, especially of steel, there is present between the flat bar and the regions of the flat clothing that face the flat bar at least one magnetic element. In order to increase the degree of adhesive forces between flat bar and clothing element in a structurally simple manner, the supporting body of the clothing strip comprises a sheet-like structure that consists at least in part of a ferromagnetic material. |
| US08332990B2 |
Windshield wiper blade and suited for removal of solid material
A wiper blade device with a durable mesh sponge member attached between two removable wiper blade members. The combination sponge and wiper blade construction provides a unitary device that combines the two distinct functions of cleaning solids and wiping water from vehicular windshields. The device further provides minimal windshield obstruction given its construction, improving current wiper blade capabilities without degrading visibility or impacting safety of the vehicle. The device may comprise a wiper blade refill attachable to a wiper blade mount, providing the practitioner with an improved windshield wiper blade that is cost effective and one that requires no modification of the vehicle to implement. |
| US08332983B1 |
Rotary brush assembly for street sweeper
A rotating brush assembly for a street sweeper utilizes a hub to connect a hydraulic pump to a rotatable brush plate. A collar on the hub extends upwardly from a base flange and a tapered bore extends through the collar and the base flange and receives a mating tapered portion of a rotatable shaft of the pump. A downwardly extending rim on the bottom of the base flange locates the hub relative to a central aperture in the brush plate. The bottom of the base flange includes a recess which extends upwardly from the rim. The tapered bore communicates with the recess. The recess receives a threaded bottom portion of the rotatable shaft of the pump and a nut which is disposed on the threaded portion of the pump shaft. |
| US08332980B2 |
Washing household appliance and control method thereof
An appliance having a drain pump with a motor adapted to be supplied with an alternating supply voltage. A controller is adapted to monitor a current value supplied to the motor and to control the frequency of the supply voltage among a plurality of predetermined frequencies when the drain pump is operated in a full drainage mode. A storage medium associated with the controller stores for each predetermined frequency a maximum current value, a minimum current value and an optimal current value. The controller may stores computer implemented instructions for (a) determining if the monitored current value is between the maximum current value and the minimum current value, (b) comparing the monitored current value with the optimal current value, and (c) adjusting the frequency of the alternating supply voltage among the plurality of predetermined frequencies to cause the monitored current to more closely match the optimal current value. |
| US08332979B2 |
Cushion bladder with middle layer having gaps and various positioned interior welds
A cushioning device has a first material and an opposing second material that are sealed together at the peripheral edges to form a first (right) side, a first (head) end, a second (left) side, and a second (foot) end. Positioned between the first material and the second material is a middle material. The middle material has a top side, a bottom side, a first gap between the first side and the middle material and a second gap between the second side and the middle material. In addition, the first material is sealed to the middle material's top side at a first set of locations to form a first set of interior welds. The second surface is sealed to the middle material's bottom surface at a second set of locations to form a second set of interior welds. The first set of interior welds on the middle material's top surface and the second set of interior welds on the middle material's bottom surface are not superimposed on each other or overlap each other. |
| US08332973B2 |
Bed to a sofa conversion frame
A bed to a sofa conversion frame includes a backrest, a footer (optional) and a pair of armrests adapted to be solid state or assembled together to form a sofa frame around a traditional bed and it base frame. The pair of armrests forms a base for mounting the backrest and the footer via corresponding mounting hardware and mounting slots. Both the backrest and the footer may be a solid state unit or an assembly and/or foldable to provide easy storage. |
| US08332969B2 |
Automatic control and battery power supply
An automatic control and battery power supply for a bathroom odor removal unit. The power supply comprising: a housing, the housing comprising: a top face in generally orthogonal communication with a toilet tank face; a toilet tank face in generally orthogonal communication with a bottom face; a sensor face in communication with the top face, and the toilet tank face, and where the angle between the sensor face and the toilet tank face is obtuse; a hanger connectable to the housing, and configured to hang from the upper edge of a toilet tank with the housing outside of and generally to one side of the toilet tank; a sensor located on the sensor face. |
| US08332968B1 |
Pants with expandable pouch
An elongated crotch section is combined with seam construction to provide comfort to the wearer. Two front pieces and two back pieces are formed into or stitched to a waist band. A two piece center section forming a crotch of the boxer is without multiple seams. Seams are only on the sides and a single horizontal seam connects the two pieces of the crotch portion. The two piece crotch component forms an elongated pouch to hold the male genitalia. There is no junction of multiple seams at the groin or inseam. |
| US08332965B1 |
Modesty hospital gown
A hospital garment comprising a substantially rectangular main panel and a smaller flap panel seamed to an end of a free edge of the main garment. In one position, the flap panel extends across the back of the patient and is connected by ribbons to the main panel so as to conceal the buttocks and back of the patient's leg and in another orientation of the flap panel, the flap panel does not conceal the buttocks and back of the patient's leg. |
| US08332964B2 |
Element protection system
An element protection system for protecting wearers from cold and/or wet weather includes a garment portion having a torso section surrounding a torso-receiving cavity and a pair of sleeves, and a storage case portion including a bottom wall and a surrounding sidewall providing a main compartment sized and configured for receiving the garment portion therein. Thus, the garment portion can be stowed in the main compartment. The garment portion extends from the upper margin of the storage case portion, and a reinforcing panel extends from the upper margin over a part of a back panel of the garment portion in covering relationship to the wearers buttocks. The back panel of the garment portion includes a port sized and configured to permit passage therethrough of a strap attachable to a safety harness which can be used to restrain the torso of someone wearing the element protection system. |
| US08332963B2 |
Protective garment with curved and protected extremities
A protective garment including a body portion and an extremity permanently coupled to the body portion. The extremity includes a joint that provides the extremity with a bent position forming an acute angle relative to a vertical axis when the extremity is at rest without an arm or leg of a wearer received therein. |