| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08354888B2 |
Power amplifier
A power amplifier includes an input matching circuit, an amplifier transistor for amplifying an input signal received through the input matching circuit, an element for varying the collector voltage of the amplifier transistor, a bias circuit for varying the idle current in the amplifier transistor, and a compensation circuit for varying capacitance of the input matching circuit to maintain the phase shift and the input reflection in the power amplifier constant when the collector voltage and the idle current are varied, to prevent a decrease in the efficiency of the power amplifier due to changes in the output power of the amplifier transistor. |
| US08354887B1 |
Charge compensation for operational transconductance amplifier based circuits
In accordance with the teachings described herein, systems and methods are provided for charge compensation. A system may include an operational transconductance amplifier including an input terminal and an output terminal, a transistor network, and a capacitive circuit. The transistor network may be coupled in a feedback loop between the input terminal and the output terminal. The capacitive circuit may be configured to compensate a charge built on a parasitic capacitance of the transistor network during operation. |
| US08354885B2 |
Operational amplifier
An operational amplifier may include a transimpedance input stage. The operational amplifier is capable of self-biasing its input voltage(s) including a first stage, an input source connected to the first stage, an output stage connected to the first stage via feedback resistors, and feedback current sources connected to the first stage, wherein the feedback current sources are set to generate feedback currents flowing from the output stage back to the input stage via the feedback resistors, so as to self-bias the input voltage(s) at the input stage. A method for allowing for an op-amp to self-bias its input voltage(s), including generating feedback currents flowing from the output stage back to the input stage via feedback resistors, so as to self-bias the input voltage(s) at the input stage. |
| US08354882B2 |
Doherty amplifier with input network optimized for MMIC
In a Doherty amplifier (100), the amplifier's input is connected to a main device (102) via a first branch and to a peak device via a second branch. The first branch has a first frequency-dependent input impedance with a first real part and a first imaginary part. The second branch has a second frequency-dependent input impedance with a second real part and a second imaginary part. The first and second imaginary parts have opposite polarity. The first and 5 second imaginary parts have a same magnitude so as to compensate each other in the frequency band. The first imaginary part and the second imaginary part implement a first phase shift in the. first branch and a second phase shift in the second branch, respectively. The first and second phase shifts each have a magnitude of substantially 45 degrees substantially in the middle of the frequency band and are of opposite polarity. The phase difference of the 10 input signals to the main (102) and peak (104) devices stays largely constant over the frequency band. |
| US08354871B2 |
Self-powered comparator
Embodiments of the invention relate to an input-powered comparator. Embodiments of the invention also pertain to an active diode that includes an input-powered comparator and a switch. In a specific embodiment, the input-powered comparator only consumes power when an input source provides sufficiently high voltage. Embodiments of the active diode can be used in an energy harvesting system. The comparator can be powered by the input and the system can be configured such that the comparator only consumes power when the input is ready to provide power to the load or energy storage element. In a specific embodiment, when there is no input, or the input is too low for harvesting, the comparator does not draw any power from the energy storage element (e.g., battery or capacitor) of the system. |
| US08354869B1 |
Systems and methods for controlling power supply current using clock gating
A control system includes a clock gating module and a clock comparison module. The clock gating module is configured to generate a gating signal based on an enable signal, a given period, and a base clock signal having a given frequency. The clock comparison module is configured to generate a gated clock signal based on the base clock signal and the gating signal. |
| US08354866B2 |
PLL start-up circuit
A start-up circuit for a PLL includes a phase-frequency detector (PFD), one or more logic gates, a flip-flop and a false detection circuit. The false detection circuit includes a set of series connected flip-flops. The PFD receives a reference signal and a feedback signal. The PFD compares the frequency of a reference signal with that of a feedback signal. If the frequency of the reference signal is greater than the frequency of the feedback signal then a start-up signal is generated and transmitted to the PLL. The PLL increases the frequency of the feedback signal until it is greater than the frequency of the reference signal. The generation of the start-up signal is halted when the frequency of the feedback signal is greater than the frequency of the reference signal. |
| US08354857B1 |
Method and apparatus for speed monitoring
Aspects of the disclosure provide a speed monitor circuit. The speed monitor circuit monitors a circuit speed in a momentary manner. In addition, the speed monitor circuit consumes a relatively small silicon area. The speed monitor circuit includes a ring oscillator module, an edge capture module, and a controller module. The ring oscillator module has a plurality of stages, and is configured to start oscillating in response to an enable signal. The edge capture module is configured to capture a target edge of a signal propagating in the ring oscillator module at a stage of the ring oscillator module. The controller module is configured to receive a first edge and a second edge of a clock signal, provide the enable signal to the ring oscillator module based on the first edge to enable oscillating, and compare timings of the second edge and the captured target edge to detect the circuit speed. |
| US08354856B2 |
Replaceable probe apparatus for probing semiconductor wafer
A probe apparatus for probing a device on a semiconductor wafer to be tested by a testing equipment is provided. The probe apparatus includes a replaceable probe tile removably mounted in a probing location on a base plate. The probe tile is configured into a self-contained assembly which includes a chassis body containing a plurality of probes for probing devices on a wafer, a dielectric block for supporting the probes, and a wireguide for guiding a plurality of cables from the testing equipment into the chassis body. A wafer station having replaceable base plates and replaceable probe tiles are also provided. |
| US08354855B2 |
Carbon nanotube columns and methods of making and using carbon nanotube columns as probes
Carbon nanotube columns each comprising carbon nanotubes can be utilized as electrically conductive contact probes. The columns can be grown, and parameters of a process for growing the columns can be varied while the columns grow to vary mechanical characteristics of the columns along the growth length of the columns. Metal can then be deposited inside and/or on the outside of the columns, which can enhance the electrical conductivity of the columns. The metalized columns can be coupled to terminals of a wiring substrate. Contact tips can be formed at or attached to ends of the columns. The wiring substrate can be combined with other electronic components to form an electrical apparatus in which the carbon nanotube columns can function as contact probes. |
| US08354850B2 |
Methods and systems for detecting the presence, or determining the location or the size, or detecting changes of material properties, of an object within a predefined space
A method for detecting the presence, and/or determining the location, and/or detecting changes in the material properties, of a first object (4) within a predefined space (12) and compensating for the disturbance caused by a second object, where the method comprises the following steps: providing at least a first and a second electrode (6) capacitively coupled to each other; conductively applying an electrical signal to each of the first and second electrodes (6), the electrical signals being different for the first and second electrodes (6); for each of the electrodes (6) measuring the current signal through, and/or the voltage signal on, the electrode (6); deriving from the measured values an indication of the disturbance caused by the second object; and deriving from the measured values and the indication of the disturbance a disturbance-compensated indication of the presence, and/or the location, and/or changes in the material properties, of the first object (4). |
| US08354846B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing effect of tool eccentricity in a borehole on multi-axial induction measurements
An apparatus, method and computer-readable medium are provided for estimating a resistivity property of an earth formation. A logging tool includes a first antenna arrangement and a second antenna arrangement of the logging tool; and at least one device for maintaining the first antenna arrangement and the second antenna arrangement in proximity to a wall of the borehole. The first antenna arrangement and the second antenna arrangement may be at substantially the same axial location on the logging tool. Alternately, the first antenna arrangement and the second antenna arrangement may be at different axial positions on the logging tool. Extendible arms of the logging tool are configured to extend one or more of the first antenna arrangement and the second antenna arrangement against a face of the borehole. |
| US08354845B2 |
Method to determine parameters to control the gradient coils and radio-frequency coils of a magnetic resonance device
In a method for examination subject-specific determination of parameters for activating gradient coils and radio-frequency of a coil array of a magnetic resonance device to generate a radio-frequency pulse with which nuclear spins in an examination region of an examination subject are moved out of a rest state by an arbitrary angle, a control unit activates phases and amplitudes of currents in the radio-frequency coils and respective currents in the gradient coils in a time-dependent manner in discrete steps to generate gradient fields. In a processor in communication with the control unit, parameters for the activation are automatically calculated dependent on measured sensitivity maps of the radio-frequency coils at the examination subject. The processor optimizes a non-linear equation system within the numerical calculation of the parameters involving a desired magnetization and a theoretical calculated real magnetization. The Jacobian matrix of the real magnetization is calculated in the determination of the parameters dependent on the direction of decline of the magnetization. The matrix elements of the Jacobian matrix consist of products of individual rotations that are determined from the optimized parameters. In the calculation of each matrix element, only factors in which the corresponding parameter is associated with the time step of the matrix element are determined. |
| US08354842B2 |
Segmented magnetostrictive patch array transducer, apparatus for diagnosing structural fault by using the same, and method of operating the same
A segmented magnetostrictive patch array transducer capable of generating a high frequency shear wave in a structure such as a rod or a pipe, a structural fault diagnosing apparatus including the segmented magnetostrictive patch array transducer, and a method of operating the segmented magnetostrictive patch array transducer are shown. The segmented magnetostrictive patch array transducer includes a plurality of magnetostrictive patches attached along a circumference of a rod member; a plurality of insulators that are disposed on the magnetostrictive patches; a plurality of meander coils, each of the meander coils comprising a plurality of coil lines extending along the circumference direction of the rod member on each of the insulators, wherein a current flows through adjacent coil lines in opposite directions to one another; and a plurality of magnets that respectively form a magnetic field along the circumferential direction of the rod member on the magnetostrictive patches. |
| US08354841B2 |
Method for influencing and/or detecting magnetic particles in a region of action, magnetic particles and the use of magnetic particles
A method for influencing and/or detecting magnetic particles in a region of action, magnetic particles and the use of magnetic particles is disclosed, which method comprises the steps of: —introducing magnetic particles into a region of action, —generating a magnetic selection field having a pattern in space of its magnetic field strength such that a first sub-zone having a low magnetic field strength and a second sub-zone having a higher magnetic field strength are formed in the region of action —changing the position in space of the two sub-zones in the region of action by means of a magnetic drive field so that the magnetization of the magnetic particles change locally, —acquiring signals, which signals depend on the magnetization in the region of action, which magnetization is influenced by the change in the position in space of the first and second sub-zone, wherein the magnetic particles comprise a core region and a shell region, the core region comprising a magnetic material, wherein the magnetic material of the core region is provided as a mainly metallic material of comparably high saturation magnetization, wherein the shell region comprises mainly a metal oxide material or a noble metal material. |
| US08354825B2 |
Two-stage charge equalization method and apparatus for series-connected battery string
A two-stage charge equalization apparatus for a series-connected battery string includes a battery module having a plurality of batteries connected in series; a battery string having M (M≧2) battery modules connected in series; M charge control switch modules connected in parallel to each of the M battery modules; M second DC/DC converters connected to each of the M charge control switch modules; a single first DC/DC converter connected to the M second DC/DC converter; and a microprocessor controlling the charge control switch module, wherein the first DC/DC converter is inputted with an overall potential of the battery string and outputs a potential lower than the potential inputted and each of batteries composing the battery module shares the second DC/DC converter using the charge control switch module. |
| US08354822B2 |
Power management system and power management method
A power management system is a system for performing power management on a management subject apparatus that includes a charging unit for charging a storage apparatus installed in a vehicle. The power management system includes: a detection unit that detects a power consumed by the management subject apparatus; an adjustment unit that adjusts a charging power charged to the vehicle from the charging unit; and a control unit that controls the adjustment unit. The control unit determines an allowable power that can be supplied to the vehicle from the charging unit, notifies the vehicle of the allowable power, and controls the adjustment unit such that a power transmitted to the vehicle is reduced when a response to the notification of the allowable power is not received. With the system according to the invention, restrictions on charging subject vehicles can be alleviated without increasing a charging capacity of a charging facility. |
| US08354818B2 |
Solar charged hybrid power system
A solar powered hybrid power system including a solar charge collector; a charge storage system comprising at least a first charge storage device adapted to receive and store charge from said solar charge collector; wherein said charge storage system further comprises a power electronic circuit selectively connectable to at least a second charge storage device, said power electronic circuit adapted to transfer said stored charge to said at least a second charge storage device at a selectable voltage level. |
| US08354816B2 |
Power module layout for automotive power converters
An automotive power converter is provided. The automotive power converter includes a substrate, first and second electronic devices on the substrate, at least one conductive member coupled to the substrate and having a first device portion electrically coupled to the first electronic device and a second device portion electrically coupled to the second electronic device, and first and second terminals electrically coupled to the at least one conductive member. When a power supply is coupled to the first and second terminals, current flows from the first terminal to the first device portion substantially in a first direction and from the second terminal to the second device portion substantially in a second direction. The first direction has a first component and the second direction has a second component opposing the first component. |
| US08354815B2 |
Linear encoder, linear motor system, and method of manufacturing linear encoder
An encoder includes: a main scale having two or more band-shaped tracks in each of which an optical main grating is formed so that longitudinal direction of the main scale corresponds to a measurement axis direction; and an index scale opposed to the main scale so as to form a diffraction interference optical system in cooperation with the main grating, disposed so as to be movable relative to the main scale in the measurement axis direction, and in which two or more optical index gratings are formed. A plurality of slits included in the main grating in at least one track are formed so as to be inclined at a predetermined inclination angle from a direction perpendicular to the measurement axis direction so that pitch of the slits in the track becomes equal to the pitch of the slits in the at least one other track. |
| US08354813B2 |
Inverter device, electric automobile in which the inverter device is mounted, and hybrid automobile in which the inverter device is mounted
A torque limit section that applies limit to a torque instruction value of an electric motor such that a switching elements temperature is restricted to no more than an element upper limiting temperature includes a torque restriction section that finds a torque restriction value for restricting the torque of the electric motor in accordance with the said switching elements temperature; a torque restriction mitigation section that finds a torque restriction mitigation value for mitigating the torque limit value in accordance with the integrated value of the deviation of the element upper limiting temperature and the switching elements temperature; a first subtractor that finds a torque restriction value by subtracting the torque restriction mitigation value from the torque limit value; and a second subtractor that finds a limited torque instruction value obtained by subtracting the torque limit value from the torque instruction value and outputs this to the gate generating section. |
| US08354812B2 |
Motor
There is provided a motor. The motor may include a rotor case including a driving magnet formed on an inner circumferential surface thereof and providing a driving force by interacting with a coil of a stator, a low-speed control magnet formed on an outer circumferential surface of the rotor case and generating a frequency allowing for low-speed rotation enabling label printing as the rotor case rotates at a low speed; and a sensing part sensing an analog signal generated from the low-speed control magnet. |
| US08354811B2 |
Switching circuit for series configuration of IGBT transistors
A switching circuit includes two power transistors (22, 24) connected in series and a circuit (26, 28) for exciting each transistor suitable for simultaneously switching the two transistors. The circuit includes elements (30) for generating a corrective current (δi) for controlling a corrected-control transistor (22) among the two transistors (22, 24) according to the difference in temporal variation of the voltage at the conduction terminals of the two series-connected transistors (22, 24), and elements (37) for applying the current to the gate electrode of the corrected-control transistor (22). |
| US08354810B2 |
Electric power steering device
An electric motor is driven with high output at the time of low-speed running, and a steering at a high resolution is enabled at the time of fast-speed running. An electric power steering device causes the electric motor to generate auxiliary torque in accordance with the largeness of steering wheel torque by the steering operation of a wheel made by a driver and reduces the steering wheel torque to the driver. A control device drives, based on a vehicle-speed signal (Vs) from a speed sensor, the electric motor with high output at the time of low-speed running, and enables steering at a high resolution at the time of fast-speed running without increasing an electric-motor output. |
| US08354809B2 |
Controller for a motor and a method of controlling the motor
A pump system. The pump system includes a pump, a motor coupled to the pump, a sensor coupled to a power source, and a controller. The motor operates the pump. The sensor detects an electrical characteristic of the power source. The controller executes a fault check, controls the motor, detects a change in the electrical characteristic, and suspends the execution of the fault check for a predetermined period of time when the detected change in the electrical characteristic is outside of a valid characteristic range. |
| US08354808B2 |
Automatic detection of a mechanically commutated DC motor
In order to automatically detect a mechanically commutated DC motor, it is provided to acquire an electrical engine size, to determine current ripples in the engine size, to evaluate the amplitude, the duration and/or time position of the detected current ripples and to compare to known ripple patterns, and to choose from a known key data table a number of key data assigned to a certain engine type, when the amplitude, during and/or time position of the detected current ripples correspond to a ripple pattern, which is assigned to the engine type. |
| US08354807B2 |
Anti-noise method for sensorless-brushless direct current motor system
An anti-noise method for the Direct Current Brushless motor System, which includes a startup circuit, phase detective circuit, motor phase commutation circuit, driving circuit, BEMF detective circuit, and frequency detector, utilizes the BEMF detective circuit to detect the BEMF induced from the coils of the outer motor, and utilizes the sampled voltage phase to determine rotation speed and phase of the external motor by the phase detection circuit and frequency detector. Further, the sampling voltage of the BEMF detection circuit is feedback controlled by the frequency detector, utilized to keep good BEMF to noise ratio, and avoids the BEMF sampling error from the system. |
| US08354806B2 |
Scanning collimation of light via flat panel lamp
Various embodiments are disclosed that relate to scanning the direction of light emitted from optical collimators. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a system for scanning collimated light, the system comprising an optical wedge, a light injection system, and a controller. The optical wedge comprises a thin end, a thick end opposite the thin end, a viewing surface extending at least partially between the thick end and the thin end, and a back surface opposite the viewing surface. The thick end of the optical wedge further comprises an end reflector comprising a faceted lens structure. The light injection system is configured to inject light into the thin end of the optical wedge, and the controller is configured to control the location along the thin end of the optical wedge at which the light injection system injects light. |
| US08354801B2 |
Method for programming electronic operating devices for discharge lamps and electronic operating device for discharge lamps
A method for programming an electronic operating device is provided. The method may include programming the operating device via a slow on/off switching pattern of its supply voltage, the operating device being configured to automatically dim the connected light or lights on a time-control basis after programming, and choosing the time base of the on/off switching pattern used for programming such that a person can carry out the programming using a clock and an on/off switch for the supply voltage. |
| US08354797B2 |
Circuit arrangement for operating a series circuit of at least two low-pressure gas-discharge lamps, and a corresponding method
In various embodiments, a circuit arrangement for operating a series circuit of a first and a second low-pressure gas-discharge lamp is provided, which may include an input with a first and a second input connection for application of a supply voltage; an output with a first arrangement, which has a first and a second connection pair for connection of the first lamp, and a second arrangement, which has a first and a second connection pair for connection of the second lamp, wherein a first connection of the second pair of the first arrangement is coupled to a first connection of the first pair of the second arrangement; a resonant circuit; and a capacitive voltage divider, which has a first capacitor, which is coupled in parallel with the first arrangement, and a second capacitor, which is coupled in parallel with the second arrangement. |
| US08354794B2 |
Light emitting device and driving method thereof
The light emitting device has a limiter transistor which is connected to a monitoring element, and an inverter an output terminal of which is connected to a gate electrode of the limiter transistor and an input terminal of which is connected to one electrode of the limiter transistor and the monitoring element. In the case where the monitoring element is short-circuited, the limiter transistor can be turned off by the inverter to correct a defect of the monitoring element. |
| US08354793B2 |
Modulated light detection system
A lighting system distinguishes between light from natural and manmade sources to prevent the system's light source from being inadvertently deactivated due to light received from manmade light sources. A sensor converts received light into electrical energy. The system light source and/or some other external light source can emit light with a modulation. The system includes a modulation detector that can detect the modulation in the electrical energy received from the sensor. A system controller selectively adjusts the flow of electrical energy to the system light source responsive to the electrical signals from the sensor. The controller adjusts the flow of electrical energy in response to the non-modulated component of the electrical signals from the sensor. The controller does not adjust the flow of electrical energy in response to the modulated component of the electrical signals from the sensor. |
| US08354791B2 |
Photomultiplier tube
The photomultiplier tube 1 is provided with an upper frame 2 and a lower frame 4 which are arranged so as to oppose each other, with the respective opposing surfaces 20a, 40a made with an insulating material, a side wall part 3 which constitutes a casing together with the frames 2, 4, a plurality of stages of electron multiplying parts 33 which are arrayed so as to be spaced away sequentially from a first end side to a second end side on the opposing surface 40a of the lower frame 4, a photocathode 41 which is installed on the first end side so as to be spaced away from the electron multiplying parts 33, converting incident light from outside to photoelectrons, an anode part 34 which is installed on the second end side so as to be spaced away from the electron multiplying parts 33 to take out electrons multiplied by the electron multiplying parts 33 as a signal, and a wall-like electrode 32 which is arranged so as to enclose the photocathode 41 when viewed from a direction directly opposite to an opposing surface 401 and having a notched part 35 at a site opposing the electron multiplying parts 33 on the second end side. |
| US08354787B2 |
Organic electroluminescent display device
The present disclosure relates to an organic electroluminescent display device. The organic electroluminescent display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a substrate including thin film transistor; a first electrode disposing on the substrate and connecting to the thin film transistor; an electron transport emission layer on the first electrode; and a second electrode on the electron transport emission layer; wherein the electron transport emission layer includes an electron transport material and an emission material. |
| US08354782B2 |
Spark plug
Separation of a noble metal tip is prevented and wear resistance is enhanced, while the increase in manufacturing cost is suppressed. A spark plug 1 includes a center electrode 5 and a noble metal tip 31. The center electrode 5 and the noble metal tip 31 are joined to each other through a molten portion 35. An area of an interface between the noble metal tip 31 and the center electrode 5 is set to be 5% or less with respect to a cross-sectional area of the noble metal tip 31 which is perpendicular to an axial line CL1 at a portion of an outer surface of the noble metal tip 31 which is nearest to the molten portion 35. In the cross section including the axial line CL1, supposing that a length of the portion of the molten portion 35 in the axial line CL1 which is exposed to the outer surface is A (mm), and a width of the noble metal tip 31 is B (mm), B/A≦6 is satisfied. The portion of the molten portion 35, of which a length along the axial line CL1 is A/1.5, is located further outwards radially than a position which comes in by as much as B/4 from the outer circumference of the noble metal tip 31. |
| US08354779B2 |
Heat sink with helical fins and electrostatic augmentation
A heat sink for an LED downlight utilizes tilted fins forming helical air passages that can enhance thermal performance by 30% over conventional fins. To overcome the thermal challenge of installation within the stagnant hot air of insulated ceiling cans, a heat sink has an integral electrostatic air pump on its exterior, to move hot air downwards and drain the stagnant air from the can by establishing a chimney-like circulation up through the heat sink and back down around the outside of the heat sink. The air mover can be powered by a compact high-voltage, low-current power supply similar to those of neon signs. An embodiment of the heat sink is also revealed that is suitable for cooling an LED replacement for standard screw-in or equivalent light bulbs. This device can perform well in variety of orientations (horizontal, vertical, etc.) and fixtures. |
| US08354778B2 |
Dual-mode piezoelectric/magnetic vibrational energy harvester
Embodiments of a vibrational energy harvester are provided. A vibrational energy harvester can include a translator layer sandwiched between two stator layers. The translator layer can include a plate having an array of magnets and two or more piezoelectric patches coupled to a tether beam attached to the plate. The stator layers can have a printed circuit board with multilayer electrical windings situated in a housing. In operation, vibration of the housing can result in bending of the piezoelectric patches coupled to the tether beam. This bending simultaneously results in a relative displacement of the translator, which causes a voltage potential in the piezoelectric patches, and a relative velocity between the translator and the stators, which induces a voltage potential in the stator coils. These voltage potentials generate an AC power, which can be converted to DC power through a rectification circuit incorporating passive and active conversion. |
| US08354777B2 |
Piezoelectric film and piezoelectric device including the same, and liquid discharge apparatus
A piezoelectric film of a perovskite oxide represented by a general expression (P) below and has a pyrochlore free single phase perovskite structure with a/b≦1.06. Pba(Zrx,Tiy,Mb-x-y)bOc (P) (where, M represents one or more types of metal elements, 0 |
| US08354774B2 |
Dielectric material for polymeric actuator, and polymeric actuator using the same
A dielectric material for a polymeric actuator having a moveable part of the polymeric actuator driven by an electric field, the dielectric material containing a block copolymer (A) having a microphase-separated structure including a polymer block (B1) and a polymer block (B2), both of which are immiscible with each other. A main compositional unit in both of the polymer block (B1) and the polymer block (B2) is a (meth)acrylic ester unit, the polymer block (B1) having an alpha-dispersion temperature of 70° C. or more, and the polymer block (B2) having an alpha-dispersion temperature of 25° C. or less. The polymeric actuator provides the dielectric material between electrodes. |
| US08354772B1 |
Electrostrictive composite and method for making the same
An electrostrictive composite includes a flexible polymer matrix, a plurality of carbon nanotubes and a plurality of reinforcing particles dispersed in the flexible polymer matrix. The carbon nanotubes cooperatively form an electrically conductive network in the flexible polymer matrix. |
| US08354771B2 |
Interpole assembly for rotary electrical machine
A rotor (1) for a rotary electrical machine, which includes two pole wheels (2) having a series of axial claw poles (20) of a trapezoidal overall shape which extend axially from the extreme radial outer edge of the pole wheel (2a) toward the other pole wheel (2b), such that each pole claw (20a, 20b) of a pole wheel (2a, 2b) is situated in the space which exists between two consecutive claw poles (20a) of the other pole wheel (2b). The rotor (1) includes magnetic assemblies (3) in the interpole space (22). An assembly (3) is composed of at least one magnetic member (31) and at least one magnet (30), received in a groove (21) made in each of the facing edge faces of the two adjacent claw poles (20a, 20b). This has the advantage of increasing the cross-section for the flow of rotor flux towards the stator, and of enabling the same milling cutter as has already been used to make the grooves in the edge faces of the claw poles. |
| US08354770B2 |
Alternator for motor vehicles
An alternator for motor vehicles, having a rotor, whose poles are developed as claw-poles. In order to improve the design options of the stator of the machine, its multiphase winding is developed as a fractional-slot winding, whereby, in particular with respect to the selection of the number of slots, many additional options are created, by which both the production is made clearly simpler and less costly and, at the same time, the electrical properties are able to be improved. |
| US08354769B2 |
Rotating electrical machine and manufacturing method of a stator thereof
A rotating electrical machine includes: a rotor to which a plurality of magnetic poles are provided along its circumferential direction; a stator core laminating a plurality of core plates, and having a cylinder portion with teeth extending radially outwards; and a stator coil received in a slot between the teeth; wherein each of the teeth includes: a tooth body portion extending radially outwards from the cylinder portion; and a pair of projecting end portions, provided at an end of the tooth body portion, that are in radially extended state before receiving the stator coil in the slot, and that are in curved state in which they are bent in circumferential direction after receiving the stator coil in the slot; and wherein, in the curved state, a vacant space is defined at the slot side of a curved portion that communicates the base portion and the projecting end portion. |
| US08354768B2 |
Modular electromagnetic device with reversible generator-motor operation
A modular electromagnetic device has a stator and a rotor rotating between facing surfaces of the stator and bearing a plurality of magnets distributed with alternate orientations in a substantially ring-shaped pattern, and the stator comprises at least one pair of magnetic yokes symmetrically located at both sides of the rotor. Each yoke has a pair of projecting arms extending towards the magnets and bearing a respective coil for collection of electric power from or supply of electric power to the device. Each yoke is individually mounted on an own support equipped with adjusting units arranged to adjust the yoke position relative to the confronting magnets, and forms, together with its coils, its support, the adjusting units thereof, and sensing and control means controlling the yoke adjustment, an elementary stator cell that can be replicated to form single-phase or multiphase modules. |
| US08354764B2 |
Surface mount motor
A holder of a surface mount motor includes a bottom-raising piece formed so as to extend integrally from the bottom portion and bent at a predetermined bending angle with respect to the bottom portion. When the holder is attached to a motor body, there is a risk that a mounting surface of the bottom portion of the holder will not be in the same plane as a mounting surface of a terminal. In such a case, a fine adjustment may be performed simply by slightly raising or lowering the bottom-raising piece. Thus, an adjustment between the heights of the mounting surface of the bottom portion of the holder and the mounting surface of the terminal can be easily performed. A gap between the bottom portion of the holder and the motor casing can be easily changed simply by changing the bending angle of the bottom-raising piece. |
| US08354759B2 |
Wind powered apparatus having counter rotating blades
A wind powered apparatus (or wind turbine) having two sets of counter rotating blades. Both sets of blades are connected to an alternator and are operable to rotate the stator and rotor thereof in opposite directions relative to one another, thereby doubling their relative speed. The apparatus is equipped with a conical front nose piece having a blunt tip that co-operates with the first and second sets of blades to improve performance of the apparatus by affecting its orientation and the rotational speed of the blades. |
| US08354758B1 |
Cyclo-turbine power generator
A Cycloidal Turbine Power Generator contained within a Venturi is disclosed. The Venturi is equipped with mechanisms to vary its inlet width to control flow volume through the Venturi, and to open and close the inlet as required. The Venturi is also equipped with inflatable turbulators installed upstream from the turbine, and which extend upward from the Venturi bottom to cause a downstream eddy to reduce drag on the advancing blades of the turbine. The turbine includes a plurality of airfoil-shaped blades mounted to vary their angle of attack during rotation of the turbine. The rotation of the blades about the common hub is caused by the action of the water flow over the blades. A ring gear may be fixed to the circumference of the blade disk for power generator interface. |
| US08354757B2 |
Hybrid horizontal axis energy apparatus
A hybrid horizontal axis energy apparatus comprising a frame and a rotor assembly rotatably connected to the frame is provided. A drive mechanism is rigidly attached on the rotor assembly and is in engageable communication with an adjacent drive mechanism of an adjacent rotor assembly for rotating the adjacent rotor assembly. One or more solar devices, rigidly attached to the rotor assembly, produce electrical energy. A motor is electrically connected to the solar devices and rotates the rotor assembly about a horizontal axis of the frame on receiving the electrical energy produced by the solar devices. An electrical generator, in engageable communication with the rotor assembly via the drive mechanism, converts mechanical energy produced by the rotation of the rotor assembly to electrical energy. The rotation of the rotor assembly removes light attenuating particles from the solar devices housed on the rotor assembly, thereby increasing efficiency of the solar devices. |
| US08354756B2 |
Vertical axis turbine to generate wind power
Usage of wind turbine systems that convert wind energy to electricity is expanding. The present inventor recognized that conventional systems are not suitable for more densely populated regions, are not effective in regions having lower average wind speeds, and are not visually appealing, quiet, and expandable. Accordingly, he devised, among other things, an exemplary vertical-axis wind turbine system that includes a novel wind turbine having cup-like blades that exhibit air-foil characteristics. The air-foil characteristics dramatically improve the efficiency of the turbine, not only making it effective at lower wind speeds than conventional wind turbines, but also more tolerant of extreme wind conditions. The exemplary system is compact and suitable for roof-top and water-surface installations. Additionally, the exemplary system includes a set of one or more hollow-bore field-wound electric generators, which are not only stackable, but selectively engageable based on measured wind speeds to provide full spectrum electrical generation. |
| US08354754B2 |
Layered chip for use in soldering
A layer assemblage for a semiconductor chip having a chip body for producing a soldering connection for the chip. The assemblage is provided on a side of a chip body formed from a semiconducting material, wherein the layer assemblage is formed from a plurality of sequential metal layers which follow one above another and are produced by means of a physical coating method, and wherein a solderable soldering layer is provided between a noble metal layer situated at a surface of the layer assemblage and the chip body. In order to avoid an undesired penetration of a solder through the layer assemblage the soldering layer has at least one internal interface formed by an interruption of the coating method. |
| US08354753B2 |
3D integrated circuit structure and method for detecting chip mis-alignement
The present application discloses a 3D integrated circuit structure and a method for detecting whether there is misalignment between chip structures. The circuit structure comprises a first chip structure which comprises a first semiconductor substrate, a first insulating layer, and a first detection structure; the first detection structure comprises detection bodies positioned on two sides of the first insulating layer, the detection body comprising a first conductor, at least two second conductors, and at least one third conductors; wherein the first conductor is located on a side of the first insulating layer and connected with ends of the second conductors; the third conductors are formed between the second conductors and insulated from the second conductors, and the first ends of the third conductors away from the first conductor are step-wise; wherein vertical distances between the third conductors and the second conductors are equal, and in the direction of the length of the third conductors, the distances between the projections of the ends of the third conductors away from the first conductor which are corresponding to each other and located on the detection bodies on the two sides are substantially the same. The present invention is suitable for optimizing the alignment between the chip structures in manufacture of integrated circuits. |
| US08354749B2 |
Method for efficiently producing removable peripheral cards
Improved techniques to produce integrated circuit products are disclosed. The improved techniques permit smaller and less costly production of integrated circuit products. One aspect of the invention is that the integrated circuit products are produced a batch at a time, and that singulation of the batch into individualized integrated circuit products uses a non-linear (e.g., non-rectangular or curvilinear) sawing or cutting action so that the resulting individualized integrated circuit packages no longer need to be completely rectangular. Another aspect of the invention is that the integrated circuit products can be produced with semiconductor assembly processing such that the need to provide an external package or container becomes optional. |
| US08354748B2 |
In-package microelectronic apparatus, and methods of using same
A mounting substrate for a processor includes a die side and a land side with a processor footprint configured on the die side. The processor footprint is coupled to at least one processor interconnect and a microelectronic die is embedded in the mounting substrate. The microelectronic die is coupled to the processor interconnect and communication between a processor to be installed on the processor footprint is in a rate between 10 Gb/s and 1 Tb/s. |
| US08354746B2 |
Semiconductor package and method of forming Z-direction conductive posts embedded in structurally protective encapsulant
A semiconductor package is made using a prefabricated post carrier including a base plate and plurality of conductive posts. A film encapsulant is disposed over the base plate of the post carrier and around the conductive posts. A semiconductor die is mounted to a temporary carrier. The post carrier and temporary carrier are pressed together to embed the semiconductor die in the film encapsulant. The semiconductor die is disposed between the conductive posts in the film encapsulant. The temporary carrier and base plate of the post carrier are removed. A first circuit build-up layer is formed over a first side of the film encapsulant. The first circuit build-up layer is electrically connected to the conductive posts. A second circuit build-up layer is formed over a second side of the film encapsulant opposite the first side. The second circuit build-up layer is electrically connected to the conductive posts. |
| US08354743B2 |
Multi-tiered integrated circuit package
An integrated circuit package base includes a plurality of tiers. In some examples, an integrated circuit package encloses a plurality of stacked integrated circuits that are each electrically coupled to an electrical contact located on a respective tier of the package base. The tiers of the integrated circuit package can have different elevations relative to a bottom surface of the integrated circuit package. |
| US08354740B2 |
Top-side cooled semiconductor package with stacked interconnection plates and method
A top-side cooled semiconductor package with stacked interconnection plate is disclosed. The semiconductor package includes a circuit substrate with terminal leads, a semiconductor die atop the circuit substrate, a low thermal resistance intimate interconnection plate for bonding and interconnecting a top contact area of the semiconductor die with the circuit substrate, a low thermal resistance stacked interconnection plate atop the intimate interconnection plate for top-side cooling, a molding encapsulant for encapsulating the package except for exposing a top surface of the stacked interconnection plate to maintain effective top-side cooling. The top portion of the stacked interconnection plate can include a peripheral overhang above the intimate interconnection plate. The peripheral overhang allows for a maximized exposed top surface area for heat dissipation independent of otherwise areal constraints applicable to the intimate interconnection plate. The stacked interconnection plate can be partially etched or three dimensionally formed to create the peripheral overhang. |
| US08354738B2 |
Structures including passivated germanium
A passivated germanium surface that is a germanium carbide material formed on and in contact with the termanium material. An intermediate semiconductor device structure and a semiconductor device structure, each of which comprises the passivated germanium having germanium carbide material thereon, are also disclosed. |
| US08354736B2 |
Reclaiming usable integrated circuit chip area near through-silicon vias
Roughly described, an integrated circuit device includes a substrate including a via passing therethrough, a strained electrically conductive first material in the via, the first material tending to introduce first stresses into the substrate, and a strained second material in the via, the second material tending to introduce second stresses into the substrate which at least partially cancel the first stresses. In an embodiment, SiGe is grown epitaxially on the inside sidewall of the via in the silicon wafer. SiO2 is then formed on the inside surface of the SiGe, and metal is formed down the center. The stresses introduce by the SiGe tend to counteract the stresses introduced by the metal, thereby reducing or eliminating undesirable stress in the silicon and permitting the placement of transistors in close proximity to the TSV. |
| US08354732B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a SOI (silicon on insulator) substrate having a first region and a second region, a multilayer wiring layer formed on the SOI substrate and having an insulating layer and a wiring layer alternately stacked in this order, a first inductor formed over the SOI substrate, and a second inductor formed over the SOI substrate and positioned above the first inductor. |
| US08354730B2 |
Manufacturing method of semiconductor device and semiconductor device
A structure obtaining a desired integrated circuit by sticking together a plurality of semiconductor substrates and electrically connecting integrated circuits formed on semiconductor chips of the respective semiconductor substrates is provided, and a penetrating electrode penetrating between a main surface and a rear surface of each of the semiconductor substrates and a penetrating separation portion separating the penetrating electrode are separately arranged. Thereby, after forming an insulation trench portion for formation of the penetrating separation portion on the semiconductor substrate, a MIS•FET is formed, and then, a conductive trench portion for formation of the penetrating electrode can be formed. Therefore, element characteristics of a semiconductor device having a three-dimensional structure can be improved. |
| US08354725B2 |
MIM transistor
The invention concerns a conducting layer having a thickness of between 1 and 5 atoms, an insulated gate being formed over a part of the conducting layer. |
| US08354712B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A body contact layer 18 is formed on the side of a recessed structure 17 as well as in the bottom of the recessed structure 17, so that a contact area between the body contact layer 18 and a well layer 12 is increased and the amount of dopant implanted to the body contact layer 18 is suppressed. |
| US08354711B2 |
Power MOSFET and its edge termination
Improved MOSFET structures and processes, where multiple polysilicon embedded regions are introduced into the n+ source contact area. A top poly Field Plate is used to shield the electric field from penetrating into the channel, so that a very short channel can be used without jeopardizing the device drain-source leakage current. A bottom poly Field Plate is used to modulate the electric field distribution in the drift region such that a more uniform field distribution can be obtained. |
| US08354705B2 |
Non-volatile NAND memory semiconductor integrated circuit
A semiconductor integrated circuit device includes first, second gate electrodes, first, second diffusion layers, contact electrodes electrically connected to the first diffusion layers, a first insulating film which has concave portions between the first and second gate electrodes and does not contain nitrogen as a main component, a second insulating film which is formed on the first insulating film and does not contain nitrogen as a main component, and a third insulating film formed on the first diffusion layers, first gate electrodes, second diffusion layers and second gate electrodes with the second insulating film disposed therebetween in a partial region. The second insulating film is formed to fill the concave portions and a portion between the first and second gate electrodes has a multi-layered structure containing at least the first and second insulating films. |
| US08354698B2 |
VDMOS and JFET integrated semiconductor device
A semiconductor device. The semiconductor comprises a substrate, a VDMOS, a JFET, a first electrode, a second electrode, a third electrode and a fourth electrode. The VDMOS is formed in the substrate. The JFET is formed in the substrate. The first electrode, the second electrode and a third electrode are connected to the VDMOS and used as a first gate electrode, a first drain electrode and a first source electrode of the VDMOS respectively. The second electrode, the third electrode and the fourth electrode are connected to the JFET and used as a second drain electrode, a second gate electrode and a second source electrode of the JFET respectively. |
| US08354697B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit device and a method of manufacturing the same
To provide a circuit layout design method that can prevent degradation of the circuit reliability even in highly miniaturized circuit cells.In order to prevent noise from a power supply potential or a reference potential with a large potential difference from affecting a gate electrode and causing a malfunction, a first plug connected to the gate electrode and a second plug to which the power supply potential or the reference potential is supplied are required to be spaced from each other by a distance sufficient for the noise from the power supply potential or the reference potential not to affect the first plug. To this end, among the second plugs placed at equal intervals under the wiring, only the second plug placed at a layout position that is not sufficiently spaced from the first plug is deleted at the time of planar layout design. |
| US08354696B2 |
Semiconductor device and layout design apparatus of semiconductor device
A semiconductor device may include a plurality of logic circuits connected to each other through input and output terminals thereof. The plurality of logic circuits comprising a first sub-plurality of logic circuits coupled to a first one of different power systems. The first sub-plurality of logic circuits is laid out and adjacent to each other in a first direction. The first sub-plurality of logic circuits includes a first logic circuit and a second logic circuit. The second logic circuit is adjacent to the first logic circuit. The first logic circuit includes a first element comprising a first diffusion layer. The second logic circuit includes a second element comprising the first diffusion layer. |
| US08354693B2 |
Solid state imaging device and method for fabricating the same
A solid state imaging device includes a pixel having a photoelectric conversion element formed on a semiconductor substrate. The photoelectric conversion element includes: a first semiconductor layer of a first conductivity type; a second semiconductor layer of a second conductivity type formed on the first semiconductor layer and forming a junction therebetween; a third semiconductor layer formed on the second semiconductor layer and having a smaller band gap energy than the second semiconductor layer, the third semiconductor layer being made of a single-crystal semiconductor and containing an impurity; and a fourth semiconductor layer of the first conductivity type covering a side surface and an upper surface of the third semiconductor layer. Provision of the fourth semiconductor layer can reduce a current flowing in dark conditions. |
| US08354691B2 |
Lateral insulated-gate bipolar transistor
A N-channel lateral insulated-gate bipolar transistor includes a semiconductor substrate, a drift layer, a collector region, a channel layer, an emitter region, a gate insulation film, a gate electrode, a collector electrode, an emitter electrode. The collector region includes a high impurity concentration region having a high impurity concentration and a low impurity concentration region having a lower impurity concentration than the high impurity concentration region. The collector electrode is in ohmic contact with the high impurity concentration region and in schottky contact with the low impurity concentration region. |
| US08354690B2 |
Solid-state pinch off thyristor circuits
Provided is a semiconductor bistable switching device that includes a thyristor portion including an anode layer, a drift layer, a gate layer and a cathode layer, the gate layer operable to receive a gate trigger current that, when the anode layer is positively biased relative to the cathode layer, causes the thyristor portion to latch into a conducting mode between the anode and the cathode. The device also includes a transistor portion formed on the thyristor portion, the transistor portion including a source, a drain and a transistor gate, the drain coupled to the cathode of the thyristor portion. |
| US08354689B2 |
Light emitting devices having dopant front loaded tunnel barrier layers
Light emitting devices described herein include dopant front loaded tunnel barrier layers (TBLs). A front loaded TBL includes a first surface closer to the active region of the light emitting device and a second surface farther from the active region. The dopant concentration in the TBL is higher near the first surface of the TBL when compared to the dopant concentration near the second surface of the TBL. The front loaded region near the first surface of the TBL is formed during fabrication of the device by pausing the growth of the light emitting device before the TBL is formed and flowing dopant into the reaction chamber. After the dopant flows in the reaction chamber during the pause, the TBL is grown. |
| US08354685B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device
A semiconductor light emitting device which can suppress the self-absorption of light propagating in a semiconductor film without hindering current spread therein. A reflecting film provided between a support substrate and the semiconductor film of the device includes reflecting electrodes that are in ohmic contact with the semiconductor film and that form current paths between the reflecting electrodes and surface electrodes in the semiconductor film. The reflecting electrodes are in contact with the semiconductor film at such positions that the surface electrodes, provided on the light-extraction-surface-side surface of the semiconductor film, are not over the reflecting electrodes along a direction of the thickness of the semiconductor film. The semiconductor film has reflecting-surface-side recesses made in regions containing regions directly under the surface electrodes and recessed toward the light-extraction-surface side, and reflecting-surface-side protrusions provided in regions containing parts of the semiconductor film in contact with the reflecting electrodes and bonded to the support substrate via the reflecting film. |
| US08354681B2 |
Semiconductor light-emitting element and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor light-emitting element including a semiconductor substrate having a first surface and second surface faced on the opposite side of the first surface, the semiconductor substrate having a recessed portion formed in the first surface, and the recessed portion having a V-shaped cross-section, a reflecting layer formed on an inner surface of the recessed portion, a first electrode formed on the reflecting layer, a light-emitting layer formed on the second surface, and a second electrode formed on the light-emitting layer. |
| US08354677B2 |
Organic light emitting diode display and manufacturing method thereof
An organic light emitting diode display, which can obtain a resonance effect by its metal mirror, and a manufacturing method thereof. The display includes a semiconductor layer, a dummy pattern layer, a gate insulating film, a pixel electrode, and a gate electrode. The semiconductor layer is formed of polysilicon on a base substrate. The dummy pattern layer is formed of polysilicon at a same layer level as the semiconductor layer and surrounds a light emitting region. The gate insulating film is on the base substrate while covering the semiconductor layer and the dummy pattern layer, and has recess portions corresponding to the light emitting region. The pixel electrode is filled in the recess portions, and is formed of a metal mirror multilayer including a transmissive conductive film and a reflective conductive film. The gate electrode is on the gate insulating film at a distance from the pixel electrode. |
| US08354674B2 |
Semiconductor device wherein a property of a first semiconductor layer is different from a property of a second semiconductor layer
It is an object to provide a semiconductor device which has a large size and operates at high speed. A top gate transistor which includes a semiconductor layer of single-crystal and a bottom gate transistor which includes a semiconductor layer of amorphous silicon (microcrystalline silicon) are formed over the same substrate. Then, gate electrodes of each transistor are formed with the same layer, and source and drain electrodes are also formed with the same layer. Thus, manufacturing steps are reduced. In other words, two types of transistors can be manufactured by adding only a few steps to the manufacturing process of a bottom gate transistor. |
| US08354664B2 |
Light emitting device and light emitting device package having the same
Disclosed are a light emitting device and a light emitting device package having the same. The light emitting device includes a light emitting structure including a first conductive type semiconductor layer, a second conductive type semiconductor layer, and an active layer between the first conductive type semiconductor layer and the second conductive type semiconductor layer, wherein the first conductive type semiconductor layer includes a stepped structure having a second top surface stepped lower than the first top surface thereof; an insulating layer disposed on a lateral surface of the light emitting structure and the second top surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer; an electrode electrically connected with the first conductive type semiconductor layer; an electrode layer under the second conductive type semiconductor layer; and a protective layer disposed on a periphery portion of a lower surface of the second conductive type semiconductor layer. |
| US08354658B1 |
Lightweight radiation absorbing shield
A flexible, lightweight radiation absorbing sheet or shield includes heavy metal particles in one layer and mid-atomic number particles in another layer, the layer that will be adjacent to the patient. The shield is particularly intended for protection of the wearer and others from radiation emanating from a therapeutic source positioned within the patient's body. With the disclosed multi-layer shield construction, backscattered radiation off the heavy metal particle layer, affecting the patient's adjacent tissue, is minimized. |
| US08354655B2 |
Method and system for controlling critical dimension and roughness in resist features
A method of treating a photoresist relief feature having an initial line roughness and an initial critical dimension. The method may include directing ions toward the photoresist in a first exposure at a first angular range and first dose rate and a that is configured to reduce the initial line roughness to a second line roughness. The method may also include directing ions toward the photoresist relief feature in a second exposure at a second ion dose rate greater than the first dose rate, wherein the second ion dose rate is configured to swell the photoresist relief feature. |
| US08354654B2 |
Apparatus and method for ion beam implantation using scanning and spot beams with improved high dose beam quality
An ion implantation apparatus with multiple operating modes is disclosed. The ion implantation apparatus has an ion source and an ion extraction means for forming a converging beam on AMU-non-dispersive plane therefrom. The ion implantation apparatus includes magnetic scanner prior to a magnetic analyzer for scanning the beam on the non-dispersive plane, the magnetic analyzer for selecting ions with specific mass-to-charge ratio to pass through a mass slit to project onto a substrate. A rectangular quadruple magnet is provided to collimate the scanned ion beam and fine corrections of the beam incident angles onto a target. A deceleration or acceleration system incorporating energy filtering is at downstream of the beam collimator. A two-dimensional mechanical scanning system for scanning the target is disclosed, in which a beam diagnostic means is built in. |
| US08354653B2 |
Techniques for manufacturing solar cells
Techniques for manufacturing solar cells are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the technique may be comprise disposing the solar cell downstream of an ion source; disposing a mask between the ion source and the solar cell, the mask including a front surface, a back surface, and at least one aperture extending in an aperture direction from the front surface to the back surface; and directing ions from the ion source to the solar cell along an ion beam path and through the at least one aperture of the mask, where the ion beam path may be non-parallel relative to the aperture direction. |
| US08354647B2 |
Photoelectric chemical sensor and sensing method utilizing interfacial photo-voltages
A device and method which comprises a sensing surface on a membrane, solid surface or electrode, where the sensing surface contains a photo-voltage active material chosen in relation to a particular target substance to be detected and quantified. The photo-voltage active material is of a type which produces an interfacial photo-voltage electrical signal upon illumination. The particular photo-voltage active material chosen for a particular target substance is one in which the presence of the target substance causes a change in the electrical signal produced. The presence of the target substance modifies the expected photo-voltage produced by the sensing surface upon illumination. The photo-voltage produces signals which are detected by electronic circuits, and the presence and concentration of the target substance is determined by analyzing the difference between the photo-voltage of the target sample versus the photo-voltage of a control sample lacking the target substance. |
| US08354646B2 |
Scintillator plate, scintillator panel and flat panel radiation detector by use thereof
The scintillator plate has a reflective layer, a resinous anti-corrosion layer and a scintillator layer provided sequentially in that order on a heat resistant resin substrate. The scintillator plate is employed as a component for a flat panel radiation detector. The scintillator plate has a protective film between the scintillator layer and the flat light receiving element which makes up the flat panel radiation detector. There is point contact between the surface of the scintillator layer and the protective film and there is point contact between the flat light receiving element and the protective film. |
| US08354642B2 |
Monolithic passive THz detector with energy concentration on sub-pixel suspended MEMS thermal sensor
A THz radiation detector comprising a plurality of antenna arms separated from a suspended platform by an isolating thermal air gap. The detector functions to concentrate THz radiation energy into the smaller suspended MEMS platform (e.g., membrane) upon which a thermal sensor element is located. The THz photon energy is converted into electrical energy by means of a pixilated antenna using capacitive coupling in order to couple this focused energy across the thermally isolated air gap and onto the suspended membrane on which the thermal sensor is located. |
| US08354641B2 |
Neutron detection by neutron capture-initiated relaxation of a ferroelectrically, ferromagnetically, and/or chemically metastable material
A system for detecting radiation using an array of cells containing a metastable material together with sensing apparatus and display apparatus. |
| US08354633B2 |
Side cured light-transmissive display system
An invisible, light-transmissive display system with a light resistant material is provided. The light resistant material has a first side and a second side. Substantially invisible holes penetrate between the first surface and the second surface in a predetermined light-transmissive display pattern. The second surface is exposed to a side curing light that is substantially parallel to the second surface at the invisible holes thereadjacent. A light-conducting curable filler is applied into the invisible holes from the first surface. Surfaces of the light-conducting curable filler are cured in the invisible holes at the second surface with the side curing light. The remaining curable filler in the invisible holes is cured. |
| US08354632B2 |
Optoelectronic transmission system with optical fibers for transmitting signals from two different directions
An optoelectronic transmission system includes a light guide module, an optical signal source, an optical fiber, and a light detector. The light guide module includes a light guide body, and a lens formed on the light guide body. The optical signal source emits output optical signals towards the light guide body. The light guide body reflects and directs the output optical signals towards the lens. The optical fiber includes a first end and an opposing second end. The optical fiber transmits the output optical signals from the first end to the second end, and transmits input optical signals from the second end to the first end. The light guide body transmits the input optical signal therethrough. The light detector is positioned at an opposite side of the light guide module to the optical fiber. The light detector receives and converts the input optical signals into electrical signals. |
| US08354631B2 |
Solid-state image device manufacturing method thereof, and image capturing apparatus with first and second stress liner films
A solid-state image device is provided which includes: a photoelectric conversion portion which obtains a signal charge by photoelectric conversion of incident light; a pixel transistor portion which outputs a signal charge generated by the photoelectric conversion portion; a peripheral circuit portion which is provided at the periphery of a pixel portion including the photoelectric conversion portion and the pixel transistor portion and which has an NMOS transistor and a PMOS transistor; a first stress liner film which has a compressive stress and which is provided on the PMOS transistor; and a second stress liner film which has a tensile stress and which is provided on the NMOS transistor. In the solid-state image device described above, the photoelectric conversion portion, the pixel transistor portion, and the peripheral circuit portion are provided in and/or on a semiconductor substrate. |
| US08354626B2 |
Optical system for a missile, and method for imaging an object
An optical system for a missile has optics for imaging an object through a beam path on an imaging plane. The optics have external optics, rotatably mounted about a roll axis and a pitch axis of the missile, and internal optics, and one of the ends of the beam paths is fixed with respect to the structure in the missile. In order to prevent image disturbances caused by shadows which are caused at a high squint angle by an element which is fixed to the structure, the optical system includes a shutter, which can be introduced into the beam path during flight of the missile, in order to mask out a shadow, which is produced by an element of the missile, in the beam path in a viewing direction of the external optics which is tilted with respect to the roll axis. |
| US08354620B2 |
Steam oven heater plate arrangement
A steam oven includes a cooking cavity for receiving food product and a water reservoir for receiving water to be heated to generate steam, the water reservoir defined in part by a bottom wall structure of the cooking cavity. A heater plate located adjacent the bottom wall structure delivers heat through the bottom wall structure to water in the water reservoir. A spring-loaded heater plate mount arrangement supports the heater plate adjacent the bottom wall structure while permitting some movement of the heater plate. |
| US08354616B2 |
Heater apparatus, system, and method for stabilizing a sheet material
An apparatus for stabilizing a sheet material by near-field levitation comprises a heater plate including a heating element and a radiation surface which vibrates when the heater plate receives an acoustic wave. The apparatus further comprises at least one vibration source coupled to the heater plate and operable to transmit the acoustic wave to the heater plate. |
| US08354615B2 |
Manual welding electrode
An electrode for use in a welding process may comprise a finite length electrode core. The electrode core may be encapsulated at least partially within a coating comprising a flux material. One end of the electrode core may be tapered from a first diameter D to a second smaller diameter D1. The tapered end may further be covered with a coating that enhances the arc starting capabilities of the electrode. |
| US08354613B2 |
Method of producing common rail and locally reinforced common rail
This invention relates to a method producing a common rail excellent in fatigue strength from an inexpensive steel which uses as the material of the common rail a steel for high-strength liquid phase diffusion bonding having good toughness and fatigue strength, which steel contains, in mass %, C: 0.01 to 0.3%, Si: 0.01 to 0.5%, Mn: 0.01 to 3.0%, Cr: 1.0 to 12.0% and Mo: 0.1 to 2.0%, further contains, in mass %, V: 0.01 to 1.0%, B: 0.0003 to 0.01%, Ti: 0.01 to 0.05% and N: 0.001 to 0.01%, has P content limited to 0.03% or less, S content to 0.01% or less and O content to 0.01% or less, further has total content of grain boundary segregated embrittling elements As, Sn, Sb, Pb and Zn limited to 0.015% or less, and a balance of unavoidable impurities and Fe. The steel is used for liquid phase diffusion bonding. The production method uses a pulsed laser beam to perform laser-peening in the presence of a transparent liquid with respect to the vicinity of the boundary between the inner surface 21 of each branch hole 6 and the inner surface 22 of the rail hole 5, located at an opening peripheral zone of the branch hole 6. The surface layer of steel of the opening peripheral zone is thereafter removed. |
| US08354611B2 |
Laser engraving apparatus
In laser engraving apparatus for engraving a gray-scale image on a plastic ID-card, the laser is a modulatable optically pumped semiconductor laser. Focusing optics focus a beam from the laser into a focal spot about 10 micrometers in diameter. The ID-card is mounted on a turntable which is rotated such that the focal spot sweeps over the ID card. The turntable is translated in a direction transverse to the rotation direction and the laser is modulated such that the engraved gray-scale image is formed by a matrix of parallel black lines of various length and spacing. |
| US08354604B2 |
Auto transfer switch including cover
A cover of an electrically-connected portion of an auto transfer switch, which is detachable and includes an arc guide portion. |
| US08354597B2 |
Wired circuit board and producing method thererof
A wired circuit board includes a metal supporting board having at least one depressed portion, a conductive portion embedded in the at least one depressed portion and formed of a material having a higher conductivity than that of the metal supporting board, an insulating layer formed on the metal supporting board so as to cover the conductive portion, and a plurality of wires formed on the insulating layer in mutually spaced-apart relation so as to oppose to the conductive portion. |
| US08354595B2 |
Adhesive reinforced open hole interconnect
A method for interconnecting a first flex printed circuit board (PCB) with a second flex PCB. The method includes: providing the first flex PCB with holes at contact locations to be electrically coupled to the second flex PCB; providing the second flex PCB with electrical pads corresponding to the holes at the contact locations; applying a non-conductive material between the first PCB and the and second PCB with clearances for each of the electrical pads; aligning the first PCB with the second PCB so that the holes in the first PCB are in line with the corresponding electrical pads on the second PCB; bonding a portion of flat areas on the first and second PCBs together; dispensing a conductive adhesive into the holes to fill the space created by the holes, corresponding clearances of the non-conductive material, and the corresponding electrical pads; and curing the conductive adhesive. |
| US08354594B2 |
Wire-printed circuit board or card comprising conductors with a rectangular or square cross section
The invention relates to a wire-printed circuit board or card (1) comprising etched strip conductors (2) and wire conductors (6), which wire conductors run on and/or in the circuit board or card (1) between connection points (4). At least one of the wire conductors (6) has an essentially rectangular, for example, a square, cross-section. |
| US08354587B2 |
Hermetically sealed housing with electrical feed-in
The invention relates to a hermetically sealed housing with an electrical feed-in. A standard printed circuit board 120 seals against housing 100. The sealing is carried out on a flat side of printed circuit board 120. The printed circuit board contains electrically conducting tracks (130, 132, 134, 136) which make the electrical connection. By making the electrical connection so that at least part of it lies parallel with the surface of the printed circuit board, no gas can leak through the printed circuit board along the conductor. The inside of the hermetically sealed space 102 may be a gas-filled space, but may also be a vacuum space, for example. |
| US08354581B2 |
Hybrid drum
A hybrid drum as described combines the characteristics of both acoustic and electronic percussion apparatus enabling a musician to have a single instrument and have either acoustic or electronic output. A hybrid drum includes a multilayer drum head with a built-in FSR sensor such that the FSR drum head replaces the drum head of the acoustic drum and can be used to perform acoustically and or electronically. The FSR sensor is built into a double layer, double-head acoustic drum head, wherein one layer of the double head system has the FSR element printed on it, while the other layer of the double layer head has the inter-digiting conductive fingers printed on it and facing the FSR element. A conductive tail extends from one of the drum head layers and is operably connected to an electronic module secured to the drum shell. |
| US08354580B2 |
Split keyboard for PC data and music output
A split keyboard with an optional middle section of keys for controlling regular PC input to a host, two play music, and to input and play music with a multiple octave keyboard that when the middle section of keys are removed can be portable to travel.And when working on just the split keyboard inputting data to a host the operator arms are not abducted do to the perpendicular advantage or slide apart keyboard where an operators arms are perpendicular to the keyboard keys. |
| US08354576B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X7P246
A novel maize variety designated X7P246 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X7P246 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X7P246 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X7P246, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X7P246. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X7P246. |
| US08354573B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X05A913
A novel maize variety designated X05A913 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X05A913 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X05A913 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X05A913, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X05A913. This invention further is relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X05A913. |
| US08354570B2 |
Disease resistant plants
The present invention relates to a plant, which is resistant to a pathogen of viral, bacterial, fungal or oomycete origin, wherein the plant has an increased homoserine level as compared to a plant that is not resistant to the said pathogen, in particular organisms of the phylum Oomycota. The invention further relates to a method for obtaining a plant, which is resistant to a pathogen of viral, bacterial, fungal or oomycete origin, comprising increasing the endogenous homoserine level in the plant. |
| US08354566B2 |
Lubricating oil additive and lubricating oil composition containing same
An overbased salt of an oligomerized alkylhydroxyaromatic compound for use in a lubricating oil composition is disclosed, wherein the alkyl group of the alkylhydroxyaromatic compound is derived from an olefin mixture comprising propylene oligomers having an initial boiling point of at least about 195° C. and a final boiling point of greater than 325° C. and up to about 400° C. as measured by ASTM D86. Also disclosed is a propylene oligomer having an initial boiling point of at least about 195° C. and a final boiling point of greater than 325° C. and up to about 400° C. as measured by ASTM D8, wherein the propylene oligomer contains a distribution of carbon atoms that comprise at least about 50 weight percent of C14 to C20 carbon atoms. |
| US08354565B1 |
Rapid gas hydrate formation process
The disclosure provides a method and apparatus for forming gas hydrates from a two-phase mixture of water and a hydrate forming gas. The two-phase mixture is created in a mixing zone which may be wholly included within the body of a spray nozzle. The two-phase mixture is subsequently sprayed into a reaction zone, where the reaction zone is under pressure and temperature conditions suitable for formation of the gas hydrate. The reaction zone pressure is less than the mixing zone pressure so that expansion of the hydrate-forming gas in the mixture provides a degree of cooling by the Joule-Thompson effect and provides more intimate mixing between the water and the hydrate-forming gas. The result of the process is the formation of gas hydrates continuously and with a greatly reduced induction time. An apparatus for conduct of the method is further provided. |
| US08354563B2 |
Methods and apparatus for synthesis of alcohols from syngas
This invention provides a method for producing ethanol and 2-propanol from syngas, the method comprising: (a) converting syngas into methanol using a methanol-synthesis catalyst; (b) converting methanol into ethylene and propylene using a methanol-to-olefins catalyst; and (c) hydrating ethylene into ethanol and propylene into 2-propanol. As taught herein, the combined yield of the ethanol and the 2-propanol from biomass can be at least 100 gallons per dry ton biomass. In certain embodiments, the yield of ethanol is at least 100 gallons per dry ton biomass. In some embodiments, the yield of 2-propanol is at least 50 gallons per dry ton biomass. |
| US08354561B2 |
Trimethylolpropane color improvement
The present invention provides a process for improving the color of trimethylolpropane which comprises the steps of a) supplying a crude, aqueous base solution of trimethylolpropane, containing color causing impurities, and having a pH of less than about 9; b) contacting said base solution with an alkaline material for a period of time sufficient to increase the pH of said base solution to greater than 11 and at a sufficient temperature to allow the color causing impurities to react with said alkaline material; c) cooling the resulting solution from step (b) for a sufficient period of time; d) contacting said base solution of step (c) with an organic acid for a sufficient period of time to lower the pH thereof to less than about 9.5; e) extracting the trimethylolpropane from said base solution of step (d) with an organic solvent; f) separating the trimethylolpropane from said organic solvent; and g) purifying said trimethylolpropane from step f) to form a trimethylolpropane having a phthalic color of less than 0.20 and an acid wash color of less than 8. |
| US08354559B2 |
Process for purifying polyether
A polyether is synthesized by ring opening polymerization of an alkylene oxide with an initiator having at least one hydroxyl group, in the presence of a double metal cyanide complex catalyst, then a powder of an inorganic adsorbent containing at least 50 vol % of fine particles having a particle size of at most 26 μm and further containing at least 90 vol % of fine particles having a particle size of at most 44 μm, is added to the crude polyether, and a metal derived from the above double metal cyanide complex catalyst is adsorbed on the powder, followed by separating the powder from the crude polyether. |
| US08354555B2 |
Monolayer-coated surfaces as catalytic platforms for organic reactions
This invention provides a method for increasing the activity of catalysts. The method requires the introduction of the catalyst into nano-structured surfaces. The catalysts are introduced as functional groups in molecules forming a monolayer on a surface. A mixed monolayer of catalyst and inert molecules generates ordered domains of molecules on the surface. The catalyst is confined in regions of 0.5 nm to 3 nm in size and is surrounded by an inert material. The presence of such ordered domains that commensurate in size with the reactants, enhance the performance of the catalyst and increase the rate of the reaction. |
| US08354539B2 |
Indole derivatives as IKK2 inhibitors
The invention is directed to a certain novel compound which is an inhibitor of kinase activity, in particular IKK2 activity. |
| US08354536B2 |
Diazonium-free method to make an indazole intermediate in the synthesis of bicyclic 5-(trifluormethoxy)-1H-3-indazolecarboxylic acid amides
The present invention provides novel methods for preparing 5-(trifluoromethoxy)-1H-3-indazolecarboxylic acid (3), which is a useful precursor for the preparation of bicyclic-5-trifluoromethoxy-1H-indazole-3-carboxylic acid amides of Formula (1). Compounds of Formula (1) are active as agonists and partial agonists of the nicotinic α-7 receptor and are being studied for their use in the treatment of disease conditions associated with defective or malfunctioning nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, especially of the brain, such as for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia, as well as other psychiatric and neurological disorders. The present methods are useful for preparing compound (3) on scale up levels. |
| US08354535B2 |
Salts of 6-heterocycle substituted hexahydrophenanthridine derivatives
The invention relates to salts of 6-heteroaryl substituted hexahydrophenanthridine PDE4 inhibiting compounds, which can be used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of pharmaceutical composition for use, e.g., in treatment of airway disorders. |
| US08354533B2 |
Nitrogen-containing heteroaromatic ligand-transition metal complexes, buffer layer comprising the complexes and organic thin film transistor comprising the buffer layer
Example embodiments provide a nitrogen-containing heteroaromatic ligand-transition metal complex, a buffer layer including the complex, which may improve the injection and transport of electrical charges, an organic thin film transistor and an electronic device including the buffer layer, in which the injection of electrons or holes and the transport of charges between layers are accelerated, thereby improving the efficiency thereof, and methods of manufacturing the same. |
| US08354532B2 |
Pyrrolo [2,3-D] pyrimidines as non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors for treatment of HIV
This application concerns certain 2-phenylamino-6-aryl amino-, 6-aryloxy-, and 6-arylthio-purines, -azapurines and -deazapurines. These compounds are non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and have potential as anti-HIV treatment. |
| US08354530B2 |
Process for the synthesis of rosuvastatin calcium
Present invention represents process for the preparation of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, in particular rosuvastatin calcium introducing L-malic acid as the source of chirality for the side chain. |
| US08354529B2 |
Polyamine derivative and polyol derivative
A novel polyamine derivative, or polyol derivative, having a piperidylaminotriazine skeleton; salts of such compounds; a process for producing them; an organic material stabilizer comprising any of such compounds; a method of stabilizing an organic material; and a stabilized organinc material. Compounds of the general formula: (1) (wherein X is N(R4) or an oxygen atom; R1 is an n-valent hydrocarbon group; R2 is an hydrogen atom or an alkyl; R3 is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl, an alkoxy or an acyl; R4 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl; and n is an integer of 3 to 16) are effective in the stabilization of an organic material against deterioration by light, heat, oxygen, ozone and electromagnetic waves, such as X-rays and γ-rays. |
| US08354528B2 |
Process for making thienopyrimidine compounds
The invention provides processes of preparing, separating, and purifying PI3K inhibitor, Formula (I) and (II) compounds, and novel intermediates for preparing Formula (I) and (II) compounds. |
| US08354527B2 |
Process for producing amide or lactam
The present invention relates to a process for producing an amide or lactam, particularly laurolactam, wherein catalytic amounts of an acidic chloride and a Lewis acid are used in Beckmann rearrangement of an oxime compound. In accordance with the process, side reactions during Beckmann rearrangement can be so controlled that selectivity can be improved and strong coloring in the reaction can be prevented, giving a high-quality amide or lactam. |
| US08354526B2 |
Pyrido [4, 3-D] pyrimidinone derivatives as kinase inhibitors
The invention provides a class of compounds of Formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat or prevent diseases or disorders associated with abnormal or deregulated kinase activity, particularly Syk, ZAP70, KDR, FMS, FLT3, c-Kit, RET, TrkA, TrkB, TrkC, IGR-IR, AIk, c-FMS, or combinations thereof. |
| US08354525B2 |
Regioselectively substituted cellulose esters produced in a halogenated ionic liquid process and products produced therefrom
This invention relates to novel compositions comprising regioselectively substituted cellulose esters. One aspect of the invention relates to processes for preparing regioselectively substituted cellulose esters from cellulose dissolved in ionic liquids. Another aspect of the invention relates to the utility of regioselectively substituted cellulose esters in applications such as protective and compensation films for liquid crystalline displays. |
| US08354522B2 |
Immunostimulatory oligoribonucleotides
The invention provides immunostimulatory compositions and use of those compounds in the preparation of medicaments for the treatment of disease as well as in vitro uses. In particular, the compositions of the invention include immunostimulatory oligoribonucleotides that incorporate a sequence-dependent immunostimulatory sequence motif. Specific modifications involving phosphate linkages, nucleotide analogs, adducts, and combinations thereof are provided. Compositions of the invention, which optionally can include an antigen, can be used alone or together with other treatments to stimulate or enhance an immune response. Also provided are compositions and methods useful for treating a subject having an infection, a cancer, an allergic condition, asthma, airway remodeling, or immunodeficiency. Immunostimulatory oligoribonucleotides of the invention are believed to stimulate Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8). |
| US08354520B2 |
Composition and method for treating atherosclerosis, method for determining if a subject has atherosclerosis and method of screening an anti-atherosclerotic drug
The invention provides a method for determining if a subject has atherosclerosis, including: determining an endogenous microRNA-195 expression level of a subject suspected of having atherosclerosis; and comparing the endogenous microRNA-195 expression level of the subject with an endogenous microRNA-195 expression level of a normal group, wherein an increase in the endogenous microRNA-195 expression level of the subject as compared to the endogenous microRNA-195 expression level of the normal group indicates that the subject has atherosclerosis. |
| US08354519B2 |
Corn event MIR604
A novel transgenic corn event designated MIR604, is disclosed. The invention relates to DNA sequences of the recombinant constructs inserted into the corn genome and of genomic sequences flanking the insertion site that resulted in the MIR604 event. The invention further relates to assays for detecting the presence of the DNA sequences of MIR604, to corn plants and corn seeds comprising the genotype of MIR604 and to methods for producing a corn plant by crossing a corn plant comprising the MIR604 genotype with itself or another corn variety. |
| US08354512B2 |
Ligand and metal complex
A ligand of Formula (I) is provided: wherein A4 represents a hydrogen atom, a nitro group, an amino group, a thiocyanato group, or —Z—Y, in which Z is a divalent linking group and Y is a group derived from a biocompatible molecule, with the proviso that when X is methylene, A4 cannot be a hydrogen atom or a nitro group. A metal complex having the ligand is also provided and is useful as a blood pool contrast agent or a targeting contrast agent. |
| US08354507B2 |
HLA-DR specific antibodies, compositions and methods
HLA-DR-specific monoclonal antibodies are provided that are capable of inducing apoptosis in HLA-DR-expressing tumor cells. Certain exemplary HLA-DR-specific antibodies exhibit reduced levels of immunosuppressive activity. Antibodies of the present invention will find use in diagnostic methods as well as in compositions and methods for the treatment of cancers associated with HLA-DR expressing tumor cells. |
| US08354502B2 |
Bioactive peptides identified in enzymatic hydrolyzates of milk caseins and method of obtaining same
The invention relates to the production of bioactive products that are derived from milk proteins for the production of bioactive milk products derived from milk proteins, particularly caseins. The 16 inventive peptides can be obtained chemically, biotechnologically or by means of enzymatic treatment from proteins containing same and give rise to peptides with an antimicrobial activity, an in vitro angiotensin converter inhibitor activity and/or antihypertensive activity and/or antioxidant activity. Said nutraceutical products are suitable for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries, both in the form of a hydrolyzate or bioactive peptides. |
| US08354498B2 |
CD4 mimic peptides and their uses
An isolated peptide comprising the sequence (I): TPA-Asn-Leu-His-Phe-Cys-Gln-Leu-Xaaa-Cys-Lys-Ser-Leu-Gly-Leu-Leu-Gly-Arg-Cys-Xaab-Xaac-Xaad-Xaae-Cys-Ala-Cys-Val-NH2, wherein: TPA represents thiopropionic acid; Xaaa represents Arg, Lys; Xaab represents Ala, Arg; Xaac represents a D-amino acid; Xaad represents Thr, Ser, Asn; Xaae represents phenylalanine or a phenylalanine derivative having the structure (II), where A is absent or represents S, O, NH or CH2, B is absent or represents a C1 to C6 branched or straight-chain alkyl, and R represents a C3 to C6 alkyl, heteroalkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, cycloheterocyloalkenyl, aryl, or heteroaryl, and the use of the peptide for manufacturing anti-HIV therapeutic or vaccine compositions are disclosed herein. |
| US08354493B2 |
Polyamic acid composition, polyimide endless belt, belt supporting member, fixing member and image formation device
A polyamic acid composition including a polyamic acid, the polyamic acid having an imidization ratio of from about 5.0% to about 25.0%, and being obtained by reacting a diamine compound, a tetracarboxylic dianhydride and an acid monoanhydride at an amount ratio that satisfies the following formula (1): 0.970 |
| US08354491B2 |
Containers comprising polyester compositions which comprise cyclobutanediol
Described are container(s) comprising polyesters comprising (a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising terephthalic acid residues; optionally, aromatic dicarboxylic acid or aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues; and (b) a glycol component comprising 15 to 50 mole % 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues and 50 to 85 mole % 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues; wherein the total mole % of said dicarboxylic acid component is 100 mole %, and the total mole % of said glycol component is 100 mole %; wherein the inherent viscosity of the polyester is from 0.50 to 0.75 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C.; wherein said polyester has a notched Izod impact strength of at least 7.5 ft-lb/inch at 23° C. according to ASTM D256 with a 10-mil notch in a 1/8-inch thick bar; and wherein the melt viscosity of said polyester is less than 10,000 poise as measured at 1 radian/second on a rotary melt rheometer at 290° C. |
| US08354490B2 |
Method for functionalization of nanoscale fibers and nanoscale fiber films
A method is provided for functionalizing nanoscale fibers including reacting a plurality of nanoscale fibers with at least one epoxide monomer to chemically bond the at least one epoxide monomer to surfaces of the nanoscale fibers to form functionalized nanoscale fibers. Functionalized nanoscale fibers and nanoscale fiber films are also provided. |
| US08354489B2 |
Silicon-boron-carbon-nitrogen ceramics and precursor compounds, methods for the salt-free polymerisation of RnHal3-nSi-X-BRmHal2-m
The present invention relates to novel methods for the salt-free polymerization of borosilylamines, which comprise the structural feature Si—N—B and borosilyl hydrocarbons, which comprise the structural feature Si—X—B, wherein X may be a methylene group or a hydrocarbon chain CxHy or a cyclic hydrocarbon unit, by reaction thereof with disilazanes R3Si—NR—SiR3. |
| US08354486B2 |
Co-crystallizable diacetylenic monomer compositions, crystal phases and mixtures, and related methods
Solid polymerizable diacetylenic monomer compositions, including compositions co-crystallized from a diversity of solvent systems under diverse cooling conditions, can exhibit diffraction patterns associated with the color development reactivities of the compositions. High reactivity compositions are disclosed and high reactivity and low reactivity phases can be identified. A low angle powder X-ray diffraction peak can indicate the presence of one or more crystal phases in a composition. A fingerprint region can exhibit fingerprint patterns of diffraction peaks associated with different reactivities. Information about polymerization of the diacetylenic monomers is disclosed using 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (“NMR”) characterization. Diacetylenic monomer compositions useful in ambient condition indicators, for example time-temperature indicators are disclosed. |
| US08354480B2 |
Aqueous silicone emulsion for imparting water repellency
Aqueous silicone emulsions are disclosed containing a phenyl silsesquioxane resin, an alkoxysilane, a hydroxy terminated polydialkylsiloxane, and an emulsion of an aminofunctional polysiloxane. The silicone emulsions are useful for imparting water repellency to various surfaces, and in particular, inorganic building surfaces. |
| US08354473B2 |
Halogenation processes
The invention discloses improved processes to halogenate polymers. In particular, the invention discloses to improved processes to halogenate polymers made from C4-1012 isoolefins. |
| US08354471B2 |
Acrylic electrocoat composition and process replacing phosphate pretreatment
A coating composition, such as an electrodepositable electrocoat primer coating composition, comprises a phosphorylated acrylic polymer, The coating provides excellent corrosion protection even without a conventional phosphate pretreatment. |
| US08354464B2 |
Mixtures of brominated diphenylethanes, method of preparing the same and resin composition using the same
A mixture of brominated diphenylethanes is prepared by brominating diphenylethanes, comprises hexabromodiphenylethane, heptabromodiphenylethane and octabromodiphenylethane, comprises about 55 to about 85% by weight hexabromodiphenylethane, and comprises about 0.01 to about 30% by weight diphenylethanes substituted with an odd number of bromines. The mixture of brominated diphenylethanes can provide improved compatibility with polymer resins, as well as impart excellent flame retardancy and improved weatherability and thermal stability. |
| US08354459B2 |
Method for producing polymer material
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for producing a block copolymer solid in which microphase-separated structures are formed with good productivity. The present invention provides a method for producing a block copolymer solid in which a microphase-separated structure is formed, or an alloy, blend or composite solid containing a block copolymer in which a microphase-separated structure is formed, which comprises the following steps (1) to (3): (1) immersing a block copolymer solid or an alloy, blend or composite solid containing a block copolymer in a solvent in which each component is insoluble; (2) putting the solid obtained in (1) above in a pressure-resistant container; and (3) irradiating the solid or the solvent in (2) above with microwave. |
| US08354457B2 |
Hydrocarbon synthesis
A process (200) to synthesise hydrocarbons includes gasifying (12) a carbonaceous feed material at a temperature sufficiently high to produce at least one hot synthesis gas stream (42) at a temperature of at least 900° C. and comprising at least CO and H2. In a Fischer-Tropsch hydrocarbon synthesis stage (22), synthesis gas is converted to hydrocarbons, providing a tail gas stream (40) containing methane. The tail gas stream (40) is subjected to steam reforming (30) thereby converting the methane to CO and H2 producing a reformed gas stream which is recycled to the Fischer-Tropsch hydrocarbon synthesis stage (22). The steam reforming (30) takes place at an elevated temperature of at least 700° C. and heat for the steam reforming is provided by indirect heat exchange with the at least one hot synthesis gas stream (42). |
| US08354456B2 |
Production method of liquid hydrocarbons from natural gas
In a so-called GTL process for producing liquid hydrocarbons containing fuel oil by producing synthesis gas from natural gas, subsequently producing Fischer-Tropsch oil from the obtained synthesis gas by way of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis and upgrading the produced Fischer-Tropsch oil, the synthesis gas produced from a synthesis gas production step is partly branched at a stage prior to getting to a Fischer-Tropsch oil production step and high-purity hydrogen is separated and produced from the synthesis gas entering the branch line. All the separated high-purity hydrogen is supplied to an upgrading reaction step and consumed as hydrogen for an upgrading reaction. Additionally, the synthesis gas entering the branch line is subjected to a water gas shift reaction to raise the hydrogen concentration before the step of separating and producing high-purity hydrogen and the residual gas left after the separation may be circulated to the synthesis gas production step as raw material for producing synthesis gas. |
| US08354455B2 |
Prodrugs containing novel bio-cleavable linkers
The invention provides the compounds of formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising one or more compounds of formula I or intermediates thereof and one more of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, vehicles or diluents. The invention further provides methods of preparation and methods of use of prodrugs including NO-releasing prodrugs, double prodrugs and mutual prodrugs comprising the compounds of formula I. |
| US08354442B2 |
Imidazol-4-one and imidazole-4-thione compounds
Imidazol-4-one or imidazole-4-thione compounds of formula (I): wherein X, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are defined herein. Also disclosed is a method for treating a cannabinoid receptor-mediated disorder with these compounds. |
| US08354438B2 |
Neurological functions
The present invention relates to materials and methods for treating neurological diseases and disorders including but not limited to epilepsy and autism, as well as general cognitive problems. |
| US08354437B2 |
Method of using sustained release aminopyridine compositions
A pharmaceutical composition which comprises a therapeutically effective amount of a aminopyridine dispersed in a release matrix, including, for example, a composition that can be formulated into a stable, sustained-release oral dosage formulation, such as a tablet which provides, upon administration to a patient, a therapeutically effective plasma level of the aminopyridine for a period of at about 12 hours and the use of the composition to treat various neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis. A method of selecting individuals based on responsiveness to a treatment, including, for example, identifying individuals who responded to treatment with a sustained release fampridine composition. |
| US08354436B2 |
IL17 and IFN-gamma inhibition for the treatment of autoimmune inflammation
The present invention relates to compounds of the general formula (I), and the pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, as anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agents. |
| US08354434B2 |
Cyclourea compounds as calcium channel blockers
The invention relates to cyclourea compounds of Formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof, wherein R1-R3 and Z are defined as set forth in the specification. The invention is also directed to the use of compounds of Formula I to treat, prevent or ameliorate a disorder responsive to the blockade of calcium channels, and particularly N-type calcium channels. Compounds of the present invention are especially useful for treating pain. |
| US08354432B2 |
Cyclic derivatives as modulators of chemokine receptor activity
The present application describes modulators of MIP-1α of formula (I), or stereoisomers or prodrugs or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein n, A, T, R1, R2 and R8, are as defined herein. In addition, methods of treating and preventing inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic diseases, as well as autoimmune pathologies such as rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis using the modulators of formula (I) are disclosed. |
| US08354431B2 |
Aryl carboxylic acid cyclohexyl amide derivatives
A compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or prodrug ester thereof: (I) wherein the variants R and X are defined in the specification. |
| US08354428B2 |
Solid state forms of laquinimod and its sodium salt
Provided herein is a novel crystalline form of laquinimod, process for the preparation, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating thereof. Provided also herein are novel amorphous and polymorphic forms of laquinimod sodium, process for the preparation, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating thereof. |
| US08354423B2 |
Insecticidal spironindane derivatives
An insecticidal compound of formula I wherein X is O or NR11 where R11 is hydrogen, optionally substituted alkyl, optionally substituted aryl or optionally substituted heteroaryl; Y is a single bond, C═O, C═S or S(O)m where m is 0, 1 or 2; R1, R2, R3, R4, R8 and Ra are specified organic groups and p is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; q is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 provided that p+q is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; or salts or N-oxides thereof; compositions containing them and their using in controlling insects, acarines, nematodes or molluscs. |
| US08354420B2 |
Aminopyrimidine derivatives as LRRK2 inhibitors
Compounds of the formula I: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein m, n. X, R1, R2, R3, R5, R6 and R7 are as defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of making the compounds and using the compounds for treatment of diseases associated with LRRK2 receptor, such as Parkinson's disease. |
| US08354410B2 |
Compounds for the treatment of hepatitis C
The disclosure provides compounds of formula I, including their salts, as well as compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds have activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) and may be useful in treating those infected with HCV. |
| US08354409B2 |
Combination of brimonidine and timolol for topical ophthalmic use
Disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising brimondine and timolol for topical ophthalmic delivery and a method of treatment comprising administering said composition when indicated for glaucoma and associated conditions such as elevated intraocular pressure in the eyes of humans. |
| US08354408B2 |
N-containing heterocyclic compounds
The present invention relates to N-containing heterocyclic compounds that are inhibitors of protein kinases including JAK kinases. In particular, the compounds are selective for JAK1, JAK2, JAK3 or TYK2 kinases and combinations thereof such as JAK1 and JAK2. The kinase inhibitors can be used in the treatment of kinase associated diseases such as immunological and inflammatory diseases including organ transplants; hyperproliferative diseases including cancer and myeloproliferative diseases; viral diseases; metabolic diseases; and vascular diseases. |
| US08354401B2 |
Oxazolidinone amide aromatic compounds for supressing MMP-9 production
Provided are a novel low-molecular-weight compound that suppresses production of induction type MMPs, particularly MMP-9, rather than production of hemostatic type MMP-2, as well as a prophylactic/therapeutic drug for autoimmune diseases or osteoarthritis. An amide derivative represented by the following formula (I) wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification, a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, or a hydrate or solvate thereof. |
| US08354400B2 |
Benzoxazole compounds and methods of use
The present invention provides benzoxazole compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof and pharmaceutical compositions including the same. The present invention further provides methods of use as described herein. |
| US08354399B2 |
Substituted indazole derivatives active as kinase inhibitors
Substituted indazole derivatives of formula (I) and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, as defined in the specification, process for their preparation and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them are disclosed; the compounds of the invention may be useful in therapy in the treatment of diseases associated with a deregulated protein kinase activity, like cancer. |
| US08354398B2 |
Substituted isoxazole compounds
Disclosed are compounds of Formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein Q is R1 is alkyl or aryl, said aryl optionally substituted with one to five substituents independently selected from C1 to C6 alkyl, C1 to C4 haloalkyl, —OR4, and/or halogen; and R2, R3, R4, and n are defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of using such compounds as selective agonists for G protein-coupled receptor S1P1, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds. These compounds are useful in treating, preventing, or slowing the progression of diseases or disorders in a variety of therapeutic areas, such as autoimmune diseases and vascular disease. |
| US08354395B2 |
Method for providing neuroprotection from spinal muscular atrophy
A method for providing neuroprotection to a patient in need of neuroprotection, comprising administering a neuroprotective-effective amount of a compound of formula I in which X is an oxygen atom or an ═N—OH group, R is selected from the group consisting of A is a hydrogen atom or together with B a carbon-carbon bond, B is a hydrogen atom, a hydroxy group or together with A a carbon-carbon bond, C is a hydrogen atom or together with D a carbon-carbon bond, D is a hydrogen atom or together with C a carbon-carbon bond, E is a hydrogen atom or together with F a carbon-carbon bond, F is a hydrogen atom or together with E a carbon-carbon bond, or an addition salt with a pharmaceutically acceptable acid. |
| US08354393B2 |
Film preparation and process for preparing the same
An object is to provide a film preparation comprising a polymer harmless to living bodies and being highly adhesive to the skin; and a film preparation further containing a pharmaceutically active oily ingredient and being highly adhesive to the skin. More specifically, provided is a film preparation comprising a drug, a wetly shear-triturated low-substituted cellulose ether having a molar substitution of from 0.05 to 1.0 per anhydrous glucose unit, and a water-soluble cellulose ether, and having 100 minutes or greater of adhesion ability to the skin. The preparation becomes a skin-adhesive hydrous sheet having excellent skin adhesion after it is wet with water as it is used. |
| US08354389B2 |
miRNA-regulated differentiation-dependent self-deleting cassette
Targeting constructs and methods of using them are provided for differentiation-dependent modification of nucleic acid sequences in cells and in non-human animals. Targeting constructs comprising a promoter operably linked to a recombinase are provided, wherein the promoter drives transcription of the recombinase in an differentiated cell but not an undifferentiated cell. Promoters include Blimp1, Prm1, Gata6, Gata4, Igf2, Lhx2, Lhx5, and Pax3. Targeting constructs with a cassette flanked on both sides by recombinase sites can be removed using a recombinase gene operably linked to a 3′-UTR that comprises a recognition site for an miRNA that is transcribed in undifferentiated cells but not in differentiated cells. The constructs may be included in targeting vectors, and can be used to automatically modify or excise a selection cassette from an ES cell, a non-human embryo, or a non-human animal. |
| US08354385B2 |
Modulation of TRPV expression levels
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the treatment and/or the prevention of conditions related to high levels of expression and/or activity of the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1). Amongst others, the conditions to be treated are eye conditions such as discomfort and altered sensitivity of the cornea following refractive surgery, use of contact lenses, dry eyes and diabetic retinopathy. |
| US08354382B2 |
Hemifumarate of a pyrazole derivative
The present invention provides a novel form of 3-(3-{4-[3-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-5-isopropyl-1H-pyrazol-4-ylmethyl]-3-methylphenoxy}propylamino)-2,2-dimethylpropionamide with improved storage stability. Since 3-(3-{4-[3-(β-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-5-isopropyl-1H-pyrazol-4-ylmethyl]-3-methylphenoxy}-propylamino)-2,2-dimethylpropionamide hemifumarate dihydrate has extremely excellent storage stability, it is useful as a drug substance. Furthermore, it shows an extremely good crystalline property and can be purified by a convenient method, and therefore is suitable for the industrial preparation. |
| US08354381B2 |
Peptide compositions for oral care systems
Oral care compositions, oral care systems, oral surface-binding peptides, and a method for applying particles to an oral surface are provided. The oral care system comprises at least one peptidic component comprising a first binding element having affinity for an oral surface and a second binding element having affinity for a ligand property of a particle. |
| US08354378B2 |
G protein coupled receptor antagonists and methods of activating and inhibiting G protein coupled receptors using the same
The invention relates generally to G protein coupled receptors and in particular to agonists and antagonists of G protein receptors and methods of using the same. |
| US08354373B2 |
Compounds having an isolated peptide consisting of structure (I)
A new compound inhibiting phosphorylation of Ser727 of STAT3, a phosphorylation inhibitor containing the new compound, an insulin resistance improving agent and a preventive or therapeutic agent for diabetes; and a screening method for at least one of the insulin resistance improving agent and the preventive or therapeutic agent for diabetes. |
| US08354369B2 |
Sprayable perfume with an improved tenacity
An alcoholic perfume solution with an improved tenacity when applied onto a surface is described. The solution contains an effective amount of a single polymer capable of extending the diffusion of perfuming ingredients in the air. |
| US08354367B2 |
Fabric softening laundry detergents with good stability
Aqueous laundry detergent compositions useful for providing fabric cleaning and softness, in the form of a liquid or gel, having a pH of from about 6 to about 11 in a 1% solution, containing a non-soap anionic surfactant; optional soap; nonionic surfactant; optional hydrotrope; fabric softening cationic cosurfactant having a molecular weight of less than about 1000; fabric softening quaternized polymer having a molecular weight of at least 200,000; a perfume deposition polyamine wherein the perfume deposition polyamine has a molecular weight of from about 5,000 to about 50,000; a non-quaternized, non polyamine thickener; and perfume. Methods of using such compositions and use of such compositions. |
| US08354366B2 |
Cleaning products
A cleaning product in the form of a single or multi-compartment water-soluble pack comprising a cleaning composition and enveloping material, wherein at least one compartment contains an aqueous cleaning composition or an aqueous auxiliary composition enveloped by a warm water soluble material and wherein the aqueous cleaning or auxiliary composition comprises more than 15% by weight of the aqueous composition of free water. |
| US08354365B2 |
Cleaning liquid for lithography and method for forming wiring
Provided are a cleaning liquid for lithography that exhibits excellent corrosion suppression performance in relation to ILD materials, and excellent removal performance in relation to a resist film and a bottom antireflective coating film, and a method for forming a wiring using the cleaning liquid for lithography. The cleaning liquid for lithography according to the present invention includes a quaternary ammonium hydroxide, a water soluble organic solvent, water, and an inorganic base. The water soluble organic solvent contains a highly polar solvent having a dipole moment of no less than 3.0 D, a glycol ether solvent and a polyhydric alcohol, and the total content of the highly polar solvent and the glycol ether solvent is no less than 30% by mass relative to the total mass of the liquid for lithography. |
| US08354361B2 |
Method of using dithiazines and derivatives thereof in the treatment of wells
Corrosion of metallic tubulars in an oil, gas or geothermal well may be inhibited by introducing into the well a dithiazine derivative of the formula: wherein R14 is a C1-C24 straight chain or branched alkyl group; or a C6-C24 aryl or arylalkyl group; R15 is a C1-C6 alkyl or a C6-C30 aryl or alkylaryl group; and X is chlorine, bromine or iodine. The dithiazine may be isolated from a whole spent fluid (WSF) formed by reaction of hydrogen sulfide and a triazine. Alternately, the whole spent fluid containing dithiazine or dithiazine derivative and a corrosion inhibiting formulation may be used to inhibit corrosion in the well. |
| US08354356B2 |
DMC catalysts, method for the production thereof and use thereof
The invention relates to a process for preparing DMC catalysts by reaction of cyanometalate compounds with metal salts, wherein the reaction is carried out in ionic liquids as solvents or suspension media. |
| US08354350B2 |
Template derivative for forming ultra-low dielectric layer and method of forming ultra-low dielectric layer using the same
A reactive cyclodextrin derivative or a reactive glucose derivative is used as a template derivative for forming an ultra-low dielectric layer. A layer is formed of the reactive cyclodextrin derivative or the reactive glucose derivative capped with Si—H and then cured in an atmosphere of hydrogen peroxide to form the ultra-low dielectric layer. |
| US08354349B2 |
Semiconductor device having sealing film and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of wiring lines which are provided on an upper side of a semiconductor substrate and which have connection pad portions, and columnar electrodes are provided on the connection pad portions of the wiring lines. A first sealing film is provided around the columnar electrodes on the upper side of the semiconductor substrate and on the wiring lines. A second sealing film is provided on the first sealing film. The first sealing film is made of a resin in which fillers are not mixed, and the second sealing film is made of a material in which fillers are mixed in a resin. |
| US08354347B2 |
Method of forming high-k dielectric stop layer for contact hole opening
A composite etch stop layer which comprises primary and secondary stop layers is used to form contacts in a dielectric layer to contact regions in a substrate. The secondary etch stop layer includes a high-k dielectric material to achieve high etch selectivity with the dielectric layer during contact formation. The secondary stop layer is removed to expose the contact regions. Removal of the secondary stop layer is achieved with high selectivity to the materials therebelow. |
| US08354346B2 |
Method for fabricating low-k dielectric and Cu interconnect
A system and method for improving the performance of an integrated circuit by lowering RC delay time is provided. A preferred embodiment comprises adding a reactive etch gas to the ash/flush plasma process following a low-k dielectric etch. The illustrative embodiments implement a removal of the damage layer that is formed during a low-k dielectric etch. |
| US08354343B2 |
Semiconductor structure and manufacturing method of the same
The present invention provides a semiconductor structure and a manufacturing method thereof. The method comprises: providing a semiconductor substrate comprising semiconductor devices; depositing a copper diffusion barrier layer on the semiconductor substrate; forming a copper composite layer on the copper diffusion barrier layer; decomposing the copper composite at corresponding positions, where copper interconnection is to be formed, into copper according to the shape of the copper interconnection; and etching off the undecomposed copper composite and the copper diffusion barrier layer underneath, to interconnect the semiconductor devices. The present invention is adaptive for manufacturing interconnection in integrated circuits. |
| US08354341B2 |
Method for forming an interconnect structure
A method for forming an interconnect structure includes providing a semiconductor substrate having a barrier layer, a low dielectric constant (Low K) inter-dielectric layer and a cap dielectric layer sequentially formed thereon; etching the cap dielectric layer and the Low K inter-dielectric layer sequentially until the barrier layer is exposed and a groove is formed; removing the cap dielectric layer until the Low K inter-dielectric layer is exposed; and doping a carbon element into the Low K inter-dielectric layer. The advantages of the method includes a decrease of the dielectric constant of the Low K inter-dielectric layer, thus, reduces the resistive-capacitive (RC) delay of interconnect layers of a semiconductor device and improve its operating speed and performance. |
| US08354340B2 |
Electronic device and method of manufacturing the same
In a conventional electronic device and a method of manufacturing the same, reduction in cost of the electronic device is hindered because resin used in an interconnect layer on the solder ball side is limited. The electronic device includes an interconnect layer (a first interconnect layer) and an interconnect layer (a second interconnect layer). The second interconnect layer is formed on the undersurface of the first interconnect layer. The second interconnect layer is larger in area seen from the top than the first interconnect layer and is extended to the outside from the first interconnect layer. |
| US08354339B2 |
Methods to form self-aligned permanent on-chip interconnect structures
Methods of fabricating a self-aligned permanent on-chip interconnect structure are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes forming a patterned photoresist having at least one opening on a surface of a substrate. A dielectric sidewall structure is then formed on each sidewall of the patterned photoresist and within the at least one opening. A narrowed width opening is present between neighboring dielectric sidewall structures. The patterned photoresist is then removed and thereafter each dielectric sidewall structure is converted into a permanent patterned dielectric structure which is self-aligned and double patterned. At least an electrically conductive material is formed within the narrowed width openings. |
| US08354337B2 |
Metal oxide film formation method and apparatus
[Problems]There is provided a metal oxide film forming method capable of controlling a film thickness of a metal oxide even if the metal oxide is subject to a self-limited thickness.[Means for Solving the Problems]A metal oxide film forming method includes a process (1) of supplying a metal source gas to a surface of a base before a temperature of the base reaches a film formation temperature of a metal oxide film; and a process (2) of setting the temperature of the base to be equal to or higher than the film formation temperature and forming the metal oxide film on the base by making a reaction between the metal source gas supplied to the surface of the base and residual moisture on the surface of the base. |
| US08354334B2 |
Power semiconductor chip with a formed patterned thick metallization atop
A method is disclosed for forming a patterned thick metallization atop a semiconductor chip wafer. The method includes fabricating a nearly complete semiconductor chip wafer ready for metallization; depositing a bottom metal layer of sub-thickness TK1 together with its built-in alignment mark using a hot metal process; depositing a top metal layer of sub-thickness TK2 using a cold metal process thus forming a stacked thick metallization of total thickness TK=TK1+TK2; then, use the built-in alignment mark as reference, patterning the stacked thick metallization. A patterned thick metallization is thus formed with the advantages of better metal step coverage owing to the superior step coverage nature of the hot metal process as compared to the cold metal process; and lower alignment error rate owing to the lower alignment signal noise nature of the cold metal process as compared to the hot metal process. |
| US08354332B2 |
Methods of forming micro-electromichanical resonators having boron-doped resonator bodies containing eutectic alloys
A micro-electromechanical resonator includes a resonator body having a semiconductor region therein doped with boron to a level greater than about 1×1018 cm−3 and even greater than about 1×1019 cm−3, in order to obtain reductions in the temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) of the resonator over a relatively large temperature range. Still further improvements in TCF can be achieved by degenerately doping the resonator body with boron and/or by boron-assisted aluminum doping of the resonator body. |
| US08354331B2 |
Multiplying pattern density by single sidewall imaging transfer
A method for fabricating an integrated circuit includes patterning a mandrel over a layer to be patterned. Dopants are implanted into exposed sidewalls of the mandrel to form at least two doped layers having at least one undoped region adjacent to the doped layers. The doped layers are selectively etched away to form pillars from the undoped regions. The layer to be patterned is etched using the pillars as an etch mask to form features for an integrated circuit device. A semiconductor device is also disclosed. |
| US08354328B2 |
Semiconductor device manufacturing method and semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a vertical type semiconductor element formed by using a silicon substrate, a P type impurity diffusion layer being formed at a back surface of the silicon substrate. The surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer is wet etched to expose a single silicon crystal surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer, and a metal layer having a work function of 4.5 eV or more is disposed to the single silicon crystal surface so that an ohmic contact is made between the single silicon crystal surface of the P type impurity diffusion layer and the metal layer without making a silicon-metal alloy layer between the P type impurity diffusion layer and the metal layer. |
| US08354326B2 |
Precision trench formation through oxide region formation for a semiconductor device
Structures and methods for precision trench formation are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device comprises forming a first oxygen-containing region in a semiconductor substrate by performing an oxygen ion implantation to a portion of the semiconductor substrate, and oxidizing the first oxygen-containing region using oxygen contained therein by performing a thermal processing to the semiconductor substrate, where the first oxygen-containing region is converted to a first oxide region. The method further comprises forming a groove in the semiconductor substrate by eliminating the first oxide region, where the performing thermal processing comprises subjecting the first oxygen-containing region to a gas low on oxygen. |
| US08354325B1 |
Method for forming a toroidal inductor in a semiconductor substrate
A toroidal inductor formed in a semiconductor substrate. Through-silicon vias are used to connect metal layers formed on top and bottom surfaces of the semiconductor substrate. In one embodiment, the vias are elongated and laid out in two concentric circles, an inner circle enclosed by an outer circle. The vias of the outer concentric circle are longer than the vias of the inner circle so that spaces between vias are the same for both circles. In another embodiment, each elongated via may include a plurality of circular vias formed in a line. Metals layers on the top and bottom of the semiconductor substrate are patterned to form wedge shaped connectors between the inner and outer vias to form the spirals of the toroidal inductor. The wedge shaped connectors with elongated vias allow spacing between spirals to be constant. |
| US08354323B2 |
Doped graphene electronic materials
A graphene substrate is doped with one or more functional groups to form an electronic device. |
| US08354319B2 |
Integrated planar and multiple gate FETs
A multiple gate field effect transistor and a planar field effect transistor formed in the same substrate each have a top planar surface underneath each corresponding gate that are co-planar with one another and also co-planar with a top surface of a shallow trench isolation region located therebetween. The relatively older planar FET fabrication technology has added to it the relatively newer MUGFET fabrication technology without disruption to the planar fabrication technology and with relatively little added cost. |
| US08354316B2 |
Reduced mask configuration for power mosfets with electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuit protection
A semiconductor power device supported on a semiconductor substrate includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit disposed on a first portion of patterned ESD polysilicon layer on top of the semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor power device further includes a second portion of the patterned ESD polysilicon layer constituting a body implant ion block layer for blocking implanting body ions to enter into the semiconductor substrate below the body implant ion block layer. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) polysilicon layer on top of the semiconductor substrate further covering a scribe line on an edge of the semiconductor device whereby a passivation layer is no longer required manufacturing the semiconductor device for reducing a mask required for patterning the passivation layer. |
| US08354314B2 |
Silicon germanium film formation method and structure
Epitaxial deposition of silicon germanium in a semiconductor device is achieved without using masks. Nucleation delays induced by interactions with dopants present before deposition of the silicon germanium are used to determine a period over which an exposed substrate surface may be subjected to epitaxial deposition to form a layer of SiGe on desired parts with substantially no deposition on other parts. Dopant concentration may be changed to achieve desired thicknesses within preferred deposition times. Resulting deposited SiGe is substantially devoid of growth edge effects. |
| US08354308B2 |
Conductive layer buried-type substrate, method of forming the conductive layer buried-type substrate, and method of fabricating semiconductor device using the conductive layer buried-type substrate
A conductive layer buried-type substrate is disclosed. The substrate includes a silicon oxidation layer bonded to a supporting substrate, an adhesion promotion layer that is formed on the silicon oxidation layer and improves an adhesion between the silicon oxidation layer and a conductive layer, wherein the conductive layer is formed on the adhesion promotion layer and comprises a metal layer, and a single crystal semiconductor layer formed on the conductive layer. |
| US08354304B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of forming conductive posts embedded in photosensitive encapsulant
A semiconductor package includes a post carrier having a base plate and plurality of conductive posts. A photosensitive encapsulant is deposited over the base plate of the post carrier and around the conductive posts. The photosensitive encapsulant is etched to expose a portion of the base plate of the post carrier. A semiconductor die is mounted to the base plate of the post carrier within the etched portions of the photosensitive encapsulant. A second encapsulant is deposited over the semiconductor die. A first circuit build-up layer is formed over the second encapsulant. The first circuit build-up layer is electrically connected to the conductive posts. The base plate of the post carrier is removed and a second circuit build-up layer is formed over the semiconductor die and the photosensitive encapsulant opposite the first circuit build-up layer. The second circuit build-up layer is electrically connected to the conductive posts. |
| US08354302B2 |
Semiconductor device fabrication method including formation of columnar electrodes having protrusion sections
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip having a plurality of electrode pads, and a rewiring pattern having a plurality of interconnects connected to the electrode pads and extending over insulation film. The semiconductor device includes a plurality of columnar electrodes each having a main body section and a protrusion section, and a sealing section having a top face having a height the same as the top faces of the protrusion sections. The semiconductor device includes solder balls formed on the protrusion sections and has a plurality of trenches in the sealing section. Each trench has a depth which reaches the boundary between the main body and protrusion of the electrode. The side faces of the protrusion section are exposed by the trenches. Each solder ball is electrically connected to the top and side faces of the protrusion section of each electrode. |
| US08354298B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of a semiconductor device
A semiconductor device of the present invention comprises a substrate and a first semiconductor element. The substrate comprises an inner layer conductor and a cavity comprising the bottom surface on which a part of the inner layer conductor is exposed. The first semiconductor element contacts, in the cavity, the inner layer conductor directly or via a good heat conductor material. |
| US08354293B2 |
Method of making an imaging tablet-lens structure comprising an index of refraction that varies directionally
An imaging optical module is designed to be placed in front of an optical image sensor of a semiconductor component. The module includes at least one element which has a refractive index that varies between its optical axis and its periphery, over at least an annular part and/or over its central part. The element may be a tablet in front of the semiconductor sensor or a lens in front of the semiconductor sensor. The direction of variation in refractive index may be oppositely oriented with respect to the table and lens. |
| US08354291B2 |
Integrated circuits based on aligned nanotubes
Techniques, apparatus and systems are described for wafer-scale processing of aligned nanotube devices and integrated circuits. In one aspect, a method can include growing aligned nanotubes on at least one of a wafer-scale quartz substrate or a wafer-scale sapphire substrate. The method can include transferring the grown aligned nanotubes onto a target substrate. Also, the method can include fabricating at least one device based on the transferred nanotubes. |
| US08354280B2 |
Reusable detection surfaces and methods of using same
The technology provided herein generally relates to reusable detection surfaces and methods for reusing a detection surface after using the detection surface in an assay for an analyte. |
| US08354279B2 |
Methods of tracking fluids produced from various zones in a subterranean well
Compositions and methods for determining the source of treatment fluids being produced from a production formation having multiple zones by introducing a treatment composition having a tracking material into a zone in the subterranean formation, and detecting the tracking material in treatment composition that flows back from the subterranean formation. |
| US08354278B2 |
Liquid for discharge, method for discharging biospecimen, and compound
A liquid for discharge includes: a biospecimen; and at least one kind of compounds represented by the formula (1). In the formula (1), m≧8, and 6≦n≦20. |
| US08354277B2 |
Isolated primate embryonic cells derived from extended blastocysts
An isolated primate embryonic cell is provided as well as cell cultures and cell lines derived therefrom. Also provided are methods of generating and using such cells. |
| US08354274B2 |
Synthetic surfaces for culturing cells in chemically defined media
Synthetic surfaces capable of supporting culture of eukaryotic cells including stem cells and undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells in a chemically defined medium include a swellable (meth)acrylate layer and a polypeptide conjugated to the swellable (meth)acrylate layer. The swellable (meth)acrylate layer may be formed by polymerizing monomers in a composition that includes a carboxyl group-containing (meth)acrylate monomer, a cross-linking (di- or higher-functional) (meth)acrylate monomer, and a hydrophilic monomer capable of polymerizing with the carboxyl group-containing (meth)acrylate monomer and the cross-linking (meth)acrylate monomer. The swellable (meth)acrylate layer has an equilibrium water content in water of between about 5% and about 70%. The conjugated peptide may include an RGD amino acid sequence. |
| US08354265B2 |
Chemicals promoting the growth of N-acylhomoserine lactone-degrading bacteria
The present invention concerns the field of bacterial biocontrol. More precisely, the invention relates to the identification of chemicals which promote the growth of bacteria inactivating NAHL, such as gamma-caprolactone (GCL) and 4-heptanolide (HTN) and their use in soil additives. |
| US08354264B2 |
Polynucleotides encoding novel PCSK9 variants
The present invention provides novel polynucleotides encoding PCSK9b and PCSK9c polypeptides, fragments and homologues thereof. Also provided are vectors, host cells, antibodies, and recombinant and synthetic methods for producing said polypeptides. The invention further relates to diagnostic and therapeutic methods for applying these novel PCSK9b and PCSK9c polypeptides to the diagnosis, treatment, and/or prevention of various diseases and/or disorders related to these polypeptides. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of the polynucleotides and polypeptides of the present invention. |
| US08354262B2 |
Chemically modified carbonic anhydrases useful in carbon capture systems
The present disclosure relates to chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides and soluble compositions, homogenous liquid formulations comprising them. The chemically modified carbonic anhydrase polypeptides have improved properties relative to the same carbonic anhydrase polypeptide that is not chemically modified including the improved properties of increased activity and/or stability in the presence of amine compounds, ammonia, or carbonate ion. The present disclosure also provides methods of preparing the chemically modified polypeptides and methods of using the chemically modified polypeptides for accelerating the absorption of carbon dioxide from a gas stream into a solution as well as for the release of the absorbed carbon dioxide for further treatment and/or sequestering. |
| US08354260B2 |
Phanerochaete chrysosporium cellobiohydrolases and compositions comprising the same
A cellobiohydrolase that can contribute to a synergistic effect on cellulose degradation and the use of such cellobiohydrolase in cellulose degradation are provided. The synergistic effect is achieved by an enzyme preparation for cellulose degradation containing a cellobiohydrolase originating in Phanerochaete chrysosporium and belonging to GHF6 or a variant thereof, and an endoglucanase originating in a different source other than Phanerochaete chrysosporium. |
| US08354255B2 |
L-amino acid-producing bacterium and a method for producing L-amino acids
A method for producing an L-amino acid is provided which includes culturing in a medium a microorganism of the Enterobacteriaceae family which has an ability to produce an L-amino acid and which has been modified so as to enhance the β-glucoside PTS activity, and collecting the L-amino acid from the medium or cells. |
| US08354250B2 |
Neurotransmitter sensors and methods of using the same
Neurotransmitter biosensors are disclosed, including YbeJ-based glutamate binding biosensors, comprising a neurotransmitter binding domain conjugated to donor and fluorescent moieties that permit detection and measurement of Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer upon binding neurotransmitter. Such biosensors are useful for the detection of neurotransmitter concentrations in vivo and in culture. |
| US08354249B2 |
Intravenous immunoglobulin composition
A method for preparing a concentrated, immunoglobulin composition for treating subjects vaccinated against or infected with a pathogenic microorganism, comprising: (a) selecting a population of individuals previously vaccinated against one or more antigens associated with the pathogenic microorganism; (b) determining the level of specific antibodies immunoreactive with the pathogenic microorganism in a blood or blood component of the individuals to identify very high titre individuals having a very high titre of the specific antibodies; (c) combining blood or blood components comprising immunoglobulins from the very high titre individuals; and (d) purifying and/or concentrating the product of step (c), thereby obtaining a concentrated immunoglobulin composition. Also disclosed is a concentrated immunoglobulin composition comprising specific antibodies immunoreactive with a pathogenic microorganism, characterized in that the titre of specific antibodies of the composition is at least 5 times higher than the average titre of specific antibodies of a population of individuals previously vaccinated against one or more antigens associated with the pathogenic microorganism. The composition has a relatively high protein concentration and a low percentage of protein aggregates, and is therefore suitable for both iv and im administration. In a preferred embodiment, the pathogenic microorganism is smallpox virus or vaccinia virus. |
| US08354247B2 |
Glycoprotein synthesis and remodeling by enzymatic transglycosylation
A chemoenzymatic method for the preparation of a homogeneous glycoprotein or glycopeptide, including (a) providing an acceptor selected from the group consisting of GlcNAc-protein and GlcNAc-peptide; and (b) reacting the acceptor with a donor substrate including an activated oligosaccharide moiety, in the presence of a catalyst comprising endoglycosidase (ENGase), to transfer the oligosaccharide moiety to the acceptor and yield the homogeneous glycoprotein or glycopeptide. The donor substrate includes, in a specific implementation, a synthetic oligosaccharide oxazoline. A related method of glycoprotein or glycopeptide remodeling with a predetermined natural N-glycan or a tailor-made oligosaccharide moiety, and a method of remodeling an antibody including a heterogeneous sugar chain, are also described. The disclosed methodology enables glycoprotein drugs to be modified for prolonged half-life in vivo, reduced immunogenicity, and enhanced in vivo activity, and for targeting and drug delivery. |
| US08354242B2 |
Quantitation of cellular DNA and cell numbers using element labeling
Methods and kits for the quantitation of cellular DNA and cell numbers are provided. Passive element uptake, element-labeled DNA intercalators, and element labeled affinity reagents are used to quantify DNA and cells. The DNA and the cells are analyzed by elemental analysis, including ICP-MS. The methods and kits provide a fast and accurate analysis of cellular DNA and cell numbers. |
| US08354241B2 |
Methods for identifying a GLP-1 secretagogue
The present invention concerns combination of an amount of a BRS-3 agonist with an amount of a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor such that the combination provides an effect in lowering a blood glucose level or in increasing a blood GLP-1 level in a subject over that provided by the amount of the BRS-3 agonist alone and by the amount of the DPP-IV inhibitor alone and the use of such a combination for treating or preventing obesity and diabetes and conditions related thereto and conditions ameliorated by increasing a blood GLP-1 level. The present invention also relates to the use of a G protein-coupled receptor to screen for GLP-1 secretagogues. |
| US08354240B2 |
VMP-like sequences of pathogenic Borrelia
The present invention relates to DNA sequences encoding Vmp-like polypeptides of pathogenic Borreliae, the use of the DNA sequences in recombinant vectors to express polypeptides, the encoded amino acid sequences, application of the DNA and amino acid sequences to the production of polypeptides as antigens for immunoprophylaxis, immunotherapy, and immunodiagnosis. Also disclosed are the use of the nucleic acid sequences as probes or primers for the detection of organisms causing Lyme disease, relapsing fever, or related disorders, and kits designed to facilitate methods of using the described polypeptides, DNA segments and antibodies. |
| US08354236B2 |
Detection of neurodegenerative disease
Provided are methods of assessing the absence or presence of a neurodegenerative disease in a subject comprising characterizing TDP-43 in a tissue sample of the subject. Also disclosed are methods for diagnosing a neurodegenerative disease in a subject, and methods for determining the efficacy of a drug against a neurodegenerative disease. Novel antibodies that bind to TDP-43 are also provided. |
| US08354235B2 |
Method for increasing the dynamic measuring range of test elements based on specific binding reactions
The invention concerns a method for increasing the dynamic measuring range of especially immunological test elements in particular immunological chromatography test strips that can be evaluated optically that are based on specific binding reactions. The invention enables the dynamic measuring range of test elements based on specific binding reagents, especially of immunological test elements to be shifted towards higher analyte concentrations without impairing the lower detection limit. For this purpose it is proposed according to the invention that at least two zones are provided in or on the test element which contain reagents that generate detectable signals of different strengths due to different affinities for the analyte (for example in the case of antibodies that have different affinities for the analyte) or due to different principles of interaction with the analyte or with other reagents involved in the analyte detection (for example antibodies directed against the analyte in one zone and an analyte analogue in another zone). The signals in the at least two zones are used to evaluate the analyte concentration-signal strength relationship and are used to determine the analyte by means of a suitable method (correlation). |
| US08354230B2 |
Multiplex detection assay for influenza and RSV viruses
The present invention generally relates to a molecular test of Influenza A, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus A, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus B in order to identify patients with a viral infection. Accordingly methods and compositions are disclosed to determine the presence or absence of a viral pathogen in a sample containing one or more target nucleic acids from the M gene of Influenza A, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus A, and/or Respiratory Syncytial Virus B. |
| US08354228B2 |
Human Sef isoforms and methods of using same for cancer diagnosis and gene therapy
A method and pharmaceutical compositions useful for inhibiting the growth of solid tumors are provided. Specifically, the method is effected by administering to a subject in need thereof an agent capable of upregulating the expression level and/or activity of at least a functional portion of Sef, wherein the functional portion being capable of inhibiting RTK-mediated cell proliferation. Also provided are methods and kits for diagnosing and staging of cancer by detecting the expression level of hSef in a tissue sample, wherein a decrease in hSef expression level is indicative of cancer. |
| US08354227B2 |
Binary deoxyribozyme probes for nucleic acid analysis
New binary deoxyribozyme or ribozyme probes and methods are described for nucleic acid analysis, which allows the detection of nucleic acids under mild physiologic conditions with extraordinary specificity and high sensitivity to single nucleotide mismatches without PCR amplification. |
| US08354223B2 |
Methods of identifying agents that modulate methylation of VEGFR1 by SMYD3
The present invention relates to methods for determining the methyltransferase activity of a polypeptide and screening for modulators of methyltransferase activity, more particularly for modulators of the methylation of VEGFR1 by SMYD3. The invention further provides methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treating and preventing colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer and/or breast cancer using a modulator so identified. |
| US08354219B2 |
Photosensitive resin composition and dry film comprising the same
The present invention relates to a photosensitive resin composition which is developable with an alkaline aqueous solution and does not need a high temperature for curing and the like, and has all the properties suitable for use in a cover film of a printed circuit board or a laminated body for a semiconductor, and a dry film comprising the same. The photosensitive resin composition comprises (A) a polyamic acid comprising a polymer of at least one diamine compound and at least one acid dianhydride; (B) a photopolymerizable compound having at least one polymerizable ethylenic unsaturated bond in its molecule; and (C) a photoinitiator. |
| US08354217B2 |
Salt and photoresist composition containing the same
A salt represented by the formula (I-AA): wherein Q1 and Q2 each independently represent a fluorine atom or a C1-C4 perfluoroalkyl group, X1 represents a single bond etc., Y1 represents a C1-C36 aliphatic hydrocarbon group etc., A1 and A2 independently each represents a C1-C20 aliphatic hydrocarbon group etc., Ar1 represents a (m4+1)-valent C6-C20 aromatic hydrocarbon group which can have one or more substituents, B1 represents a single bond etc., m1 and m2 independently each represents an integer of 0 to 2, m3 represents an integer of 1 to 3, with the proviso that m1 plus m2 plus m3 equals 3, and m4 represents an integer of 1 to 3, and a photoresist composition comprising the salt represented by the formula (I-AA) and a resin comprising a structural unit having an acid-labile group and being insoluble or poorly soluble in an aqueous alkali solution but becoming soluble in an aqueous alkali solution by the action of an acid. |
| US08354214B2 |
Coated carriers
The present disclosure provides carriers for use with toner compositions. In embodiments, a carrier may include a core, having a dry powder polymer coating. In embodiments, the coating may also include a colorant, such as carbon black. Processes for coating such carriers with the dry powder polymer coatings are also provided. |
| US08354212B2 |
Electrophotographic photoreceptor, image forming apparatus, and method for image formation
Disclosed is an electrophotogaphic photoreceptor that causes little or no abrasion-derived uneven image density and does not cause scratches and image defects attributable to the occurrence of scratches even after a large volume, for example, exceeding 1,000,000 sheets of printing, and that does not cause image blurring even after printing in an environment of a high-temperature and a high-relative humidity (RH) respectively exceeding 30° C. and 80%. The electrophotographic photoreceptor comprises an electroconductive support and at least a photosensitive layer and a surface layer provided on the electroconductive support and is characterized in that the surface layer contains at least a compound obtained by reacting a polymerizable compound containing a methacryl group with particles containing a functional group reactive with the methacryl group and, in the polymerizable compound, the ratio between the number of methacryl groups and the molecular weight (number of methacryl groups/molecular weight) is not less than 0.0055. |
| US08354209B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic apparatus, includes a support structure configured to hold a patterning device, the patterning device configured to impart a beam of radiation with a pattern in its cross-section; a substrate table configured to hold a substrate; a projection system configured to project the patterned beam onto a target portion of the substrate; a liquid supply system configured to provide liquid to a space between the projection system and the substrate table; a sensor configured to measure an exposure parameter using a measuring beam projected through the liquid; and a correction system configured to determine an offset based on a change of a physical property impacting a measurement made using the measuring beam to at least partly correct the measured exposure parameter. |
| US08354207B2 |
Method, device, and system for forming circular patterns on a surface
A stencil for character projection (CP) charged particle beam lithography and a method for manufacturing the stencil is disclosed, where the stencil contains two circular characters, where each character is capable of forming patterns on a surface in a range of sizes by using different dosages, and where the size ranges for the two characters is continuous. A method for forming circular patterns on a surface using variable-shaped beam (VSB) shots of different dosages is also disclosed. A method for forming circular patterns on a surface using a set of shots, where all of the shots comprise dosages, is also disclosed. |
| US08354206B2 |
Method of generating photomask data, method of fabricating photomask, non-transitory memory medium storing program for generating photomask data, method of manufacturing solid-state image sensor having microlens array and method of manufacturing microlens array
A method of generating photomask data for fabricating a microlens array, the photomask having a microlens pattern including light-shielding portions and non-light-shielding portions, a rectangular region including a surrounding region having four sides of the rectangular region as outer edges and a primary region having boundaries that are inner edges of the surrounding region, the surrounding region being configured by four strip regions each including one of the four sides as its part, and a width between each outer edge and each corresponding inner edge being not more than 1/2 of a wavelength of exposure light. The method includes determining a layout of light-shielding portions and non-light-shielding portions in the surrounding region so that a density of light-shielding portions is set to fall within a range from 0% to 15%. |
| US08354202B2 |
Multilayer glass-ceramic seals for fuel cells
A fuel cell includes a ceramic component and a sealing component. The sealing component includes a first glass-ceramic layer over the ceramic component and a second glass-ceramic layer over the first glass-ceramic layer, each of the first and the second glass-ceramic layers independently including between about 0.5% and about 50% glass phase content by volume. The first glass-ceramic layer includes a higher glass phase content than the second glass-ceramic layer, and between about 0.5% and about 10% glass stabilizer component by weight. |
| US08354195B2 |
Electric storage fuel cell system and method
The invention discloses an innovative fuel cell-type electrochemical energy conversion device and method of potentially high power density capability, suitable especially for stand-alone applications such as electricity-powered vehiclesThe inventive device, named “storage fuel cell”, may be viewed as a converted storage battery, including plates, electrolyte and separators that can be similar to the ordinary known lead-acid battery. Thus it can be charged from an electrical source, or discharged across an external load with the usually high surge current features of storage batteries. An innovative additional charging mode of the storage fuel cell, by chemical reactions of each electrode with fuel and oxidizer supplied at specific flow ratios, is however the prime object of this invention.Whereas all types of prior art fuel cells exchange ions between the electrodes, across the electrolyte, each of the electrodes of the instant fuel cell independently exchanges ions, only using their adjoining electrolyte. |
| US08354194B2 |
Negative electrode active material, lithium secondary battery using the same, and method of manufacturing negative electrode active material
A negative electrode active material characterized in that carbonaceous matter essentially consisting of carbon adheres to the surface of a tin particle essentially consisting of tin, with a mixture phase, in which tin and carbon are mixed, interposed between the carbonaceous matter and the tin particle. |
| US08354193B2 |
Electrolyte for a magnesium sulfur battery
An electrochemical device, having an anode containing magnesium; a cathode stable to a voltage of at least 3.2 V relative to a magnesium reference; and an electrolyte obtained by admixture of a magnesium salt of a non-nucleophilic base comprising nitrogen and aluminum trichloride in an ether solvent is provided. As sulfur is stable to a voltage of at least 3.2 V relative to a magnesium reference, a magnesium-sulfur electrochemical device is specifically provided. |
| US08354191B2 |
Layered lithium nickel manganese cobalt composite oxide powder for material of positive electrode of lithium secondary battery, process for producing the same, positive electrode of lithium secondary battery therefrom, and lithium secondary battery
A powder of a layered lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt composite oxide for use as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery is provided which, when used as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery, enables a cost reduction and higher safety to be reconciled with improved battery performances.The powder of a layered lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt composite oxide for use as a positive-electrode material for lithium secondary battery is composed of secondary particles formed by the aggregation of primary particles. It has a composition represented by the following formula (I), has a volume resistivity of 5×105 Ω·cm or lower in the state of being compacted at a pressure of 40 MPa, and has a value of C/S, wherein C is the concentration of carbon contained therein (% by weight) and S is the BET specific surface area thereof (m2/g), of 0.025 or smaller. The powder has been regulated so as to have a volume resistivity not higher than the specified value and a considerably reduced carbon content while having a composition in a limited range, whereby a cost reduction and higher safety can be reconciled with improved battery performances. Li1+zNixMnyCo1−x−yOδ (I) (0 |
| US08354189B2 |
Electrodes including novel binders and methods of making and using the same
Provided are electrode compositions for lithium-ion electrochemical cells that include novel binders. The novel binders include lithium polysalts of carboxylic and sulfonic acids, lithium salts of copolymers of acids, lithium polysulfonate fluoropolymers, a cured phenolic resin, cured glucose, and combinations thereof. |
| US08354187B2 |
Secondary battery and method for producing the same
A secondary battery includes an electrode group 4 in which a positive electrode plate 1 and a negative electrode plate 2 are wounded with a porous insulation layer interposed therebetween, wherein an electrode plate end portion 1a protrudes from the porous insulation layer and abuts the current collector plate 5, and the current collector plate 5 is placed in relation to the electrode group 4 so as to entirely cover the end portion 1a of the electrode group 4. Parts of the electrode plate end portion 1a abutting the current collector plate 5 are welded to the current collector plate 5 at discrete joint portions 6 on the current collector plate 5, and the joint portions 6 are discretely provided on a surface of the current collector plate 5 so that a current flowing from the electrode plate 1 to the current collector plate 5 is uniformly distributed. |
| US08354184B2 |
Flowing electrolyte battery with electric potential neutralization
Flowing electrolyte batteries capable of being selectively neutralized chemically; processes of selectively neutralizing flowing electrolyte batteries chemically; and processes of selectively restoring the electrical potential of flowing electrolyte batteries are disclosed herein. |
| US08354183B2 |
Adapter for a power tool battery pack
An adapter includes an insertion part that is inserted into a body of a power tool and has terminals for electrically connecting with the power tool; a pair of rails for guiding insertion of a battery pack in a direction substantially orthogonal to the insertion direction of the insertion part; an operating part constituting tool-latching device for attaching to and detaching from the body of the power tool; and a receiving part constituting battery-latching device for attaching to and detaching from the battery pack. The operating part of the tool-latching device and the receiving-side of the battery-latching device are disposed in different positions when viewing the adapter in the insertion direction of the insertion part. |
| US08354182B2 |
Battery box and electronic device using the same
The present disclosure provides a battery box including a main body and a battery mounting mechanism. The main body defines a battery cavity to receive a battery and includes a sidewall defining a first receiving space and a second receiving space. The mechanism includes a fixing member, a shaft, and an elastic member. Two ends of the shaft are fixed in the first receiving space, and the end adjacent to the second receiving space is nearer to the battery cavity than the other end. The fixing member rotates relative to the shaft and adjacent to the second receiving space. A portion of the fixing member is received in the battery cavity. The elastic member is perpendicularly received in the second receiving space and can be compressed due to the rotation of the fixing member. An electronic device using the battery box is also provided. |
| US08354180B2 |
Method for separating active material of electrode plate for storage battery
An electrode plate (20) for storage batteries is immersed into an aqueous solution (18) containing phosphoric acid, an ethoxy alcohol, ammonium bifluoride, sulfonic acid and sodium xylenesulfonate, and the aqueous solution (18) is stirred by a screw stirrer (22). The aqueous solution (18) is kept at about 30° C. by a heater (14), and the active material of the electrode (20) is separated therefrom. The aqueous solution (18) contains the respective solutes in the following mass ratios: 15-20 parts by mass of the phosphoric acid; 3-7 parts by mass of the ethoxy alcohol; 2-6 parts by mass of the ammonium bifluoride; 4-8 parts by mass of the sulfonic acid; and 1-3 parts by mass of the sodium xylenesulfonate. |
| US08354178B2 |
Coated article having diamond-like carbon (DLC) and protective film thereon
There is provided a method of making a heat treated (HT) coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, or any other suitable applications where transparent coated articles are desired. For example, certain embodiments of this invention relate to a method of making a coated article including a step of heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least a layer of or including diamond-like carbon (DLC) and an overlying protective film thereon. In certain example embodiments, the protective film may be of or include an oxide of zinc. Following and/or during heat treatment (e.g., thermal tempering, or the like) the protective film may be removed. Other embodiments of this invention relate to the pre-HT coated article, or the post-HT coated article. |
| US08354169B2 |
Films and articles having a barrier coating derived from concentrated aqueous nanocomposite dispersions
Films or other articles having a barrier coating derived from a concentrated nanocomposite dispersion which includes a silicate filler and a matrix polymer dispersed in an aqueous medium. The dispersions are condensed by selectively removing liquid therefrom to provide high solids coating formulations. |
| US08354167B2 |
Multilayer adhesive for thermal reversible joining of substrates
One embodiment of the invention includes a multilayer dry adhesive system capable of reversible joining of rigid substrates. |
| US08354155B2 |
Recording layer for optical information recording medium, optical information recording medium, and sputtering target
A recording layer for an optical information recording medium, which has a high reflectance (initial reflectance) and excellent recording characteristics; an optical information recording medium comprising the recording layer; and a sputtering target useful for forming the recording layer. The recording layer for an optical information recording medium, on which recording is performed by irradiation of laser light, is characterized by containing indium (In) oxide and palladium (Pd) oxide which includes palladium monoxide and palladium dioxide. The recording layer for an optical information recording medium is also characterized in that the ratio of Pd atoms contained in the recording layer relative to the total of In atoms and Pd atoms contained therein is 6-60 atom %. |
| US08354154B2 |
Heat sealed appliqué having adhesive coated perimeter
A heat-seal appliqué and method for production that provides numbers, letters, logos, graphics, and other indicia which do not change the physical and visual characteristics of the garment to which it is applied, including breathable and/or moisture-wicking characteristics. The appliqué comprises a perimeter textile having a thermally activated adhesive coating and an interior opening, and a textile inlay that fits within the interior opening of the perimeter textile. The adhesive coating on the perimeter textile is the only adhesive on the appliqué. The appliqué can be heat-sealed to any garment by the perimeter textile, leaving the inlay suspended over the garment without obstructing any performance characteristics of the garment or textile. The appliqué is particularly well-suited for lightweight, breathable and/or moisture-wicking textiles commonly used in performance sports apparel. |
| US08354151B1 |
Waterborne polyurethane coating compositions
Aqueous polyurethane coating compositions are disclosed in this specification. The aqueous polyurethane coating compositions contain a polycarbonate-polyurethane resin component, an aminoplast resin component, and a polyester polyol component. |
| US08354149B2 |
Transparent ink-jet recording films, compositions, and methods
The compositions and methods of the present application can provide transparent ink-jet recording films that may be used by printers relying on optical detection of fed media. Such films can be useful for medical image reproduction. |
| US08354148B2 |
Optical compensation polarizing plate, image display unit and liquid crystal display unit
An optical compensation polarizing plate comprising: a first transparent protective film; a polarizer; a second transparent protective film; and an optical compensation layer in this order, wherein at least one of the first and second transparent protective films is a cellulose acylate film having a retardation value in plane Re (nm) and a retardation value in film thickness direction Rth (nm) which fulfill the following formulae (I) and (II), and Nz and Re1 defined by the following formulae (III) and (IV), of the optical compensation layer fulfill the following formulae (V) and (VI):(I) |Re|≦10, (II) |Rth|≦25, (III) Nz=(nx1−nz1)/(nx1−ny1), (IV) Re1=(nx1−ny1)×d1, (V) 0.4≦Nz≦0.6 (VI) 100≦Re1≦350, wherein Re1 is a retardation value in plane (nm) at a wavelength of 590 nm; Nz is an Nz factor at a wavelength of 590 nm; nx1 is a refractive index along a slow axis in a film plane; ny1 is a refractive index along a direction perpendicular to the slow axis in a film plane; nz1 is a refractive index along a thickness direction of the film; and d1 is a thickness of the film (nm). |
| US08354146B2 |
Methods for repairing gas turbine engine components
Methods for repairing gas turbine engine components are provided. In this regard, a representative method includes: applying a surface treatment to the component such that locations at an exterior surface of the component exhibiting inter-granular attack are protected from erosion during a cleaning process; and cleaning the component using hydrogen fluoride ion cleaning to clean the component. |
| US08354145B2 |
Method of applying a pattern to a substrate
Method for applying a pattern onto a substrate, the method including the following steps: applying a layer of a paint comprising magnetically orientable pigments on the substrate; exposing the paint to a magnetic field, whereby the pigments are oriented along field lines of the magnetic field to produce a pattern in the paint layer; and solidifying the paint on the substrate; characterized in that the magnetic field is generated by a magnetic part embedded in the substrate. |
| US08354139B1 |
System for impregnating a liner for use in underground conduit repair
A system for impregnating a liner with a curable substance enables the liner to be used to repair or refurbish an underground conduit. The system includes a vacuum pump having a vacuum line communicably connected thereto. The vacuum line has a vacuum inlet formed therein. The vacuum line supports the liner such that the liner covers and encloses the inlet. A supply of a curable substance has an applicator line connected thereto. The applicator line is proximate the vacuum line and has a discharge port located proximate the liner supported on the vacuum line. An applicator pump moves the curable substance through the applicator line and discharge port onto the liner while the vacuum pump draws a vacuum on the liner. |
| US08354133B2 |
Modifying agent for plastic fat
Provided are a modifying agent for a plastic fat to be used in a plastic fat comprising palm oil, which inhibits changes in physical properties of the plastic fat such as hardness or crude crystal formation and gives an air-containing plastic fat; and a plastic fat using the same. A plastic fat is prepared by using, as modifying agent, an appropriate amount of a fat composition which comprised triglycerides comprising, as constituting fatty acids, a saturated fatty acid (A) having a melting point of 60° C. or higher and a saturated fatty acid (B) having a melting point of 40° C. or lower, wherein the fat composition contains 40-85 wt %, relative to the total fat composition, of ABB type triglycerides, and the weight ratio (ABB/AAB) of said ABB type triglycerides o AAB type triglycerides is 2-15. |
| US08354120B2 |
Using bucky paper as a therapeutic aid in medical applications
Methods, systems, and uses of bucky paper are provided in the present invention. These embodiments include covering medical implants with single or multiple layers of bucky paper, treating bucky paper with various therapeutics to be released through the bucky paper to a target site, shaping bucky paper into non-conventional configurations for improved therapeutic deliver, and using bucky paper alone or in conjunction with other materials to treat a target site. |
| US08354117B2 |
Preparation for oral cavity
Object of the present invention is to provide a preparation for oral cavity that is appropriately usable as a prophylactic agent for dental caries, a therapeutic agent for dental caries at early stage, a prophylactic and/or therapeutic agent for dentinal hypersensitivity, a preparation for the lining of a dentin cavity surface, or the like, which has a superior effect of sealing the dentinal tubules, is capable of improving the acid resistance of the teeth and re-calcifying the teeth, ensures a short-time treatment with an easy operation, and has a high safety and good aesthetic properties. The object is achieved by a preparation for oral cavity such as a prophylactic agent for dental caries and/or a therapeutic agent for dental caries at early stage, a prophylactic and/or therapeutic agent for dentinal hypersensitivity, a preparation for the lining of a dentin cavity surface, or the like, consisting of a liquid (A), in which fluoro-alumino-silicate glass microparticles are dispersed, and an aqueous inorganic phosphoric acid solution (B). |
| US08354116B2 |
Bifunctional synthetic molecules
The synthesis and use of bifunctional molecules to improve the topical and transdermal delivery efficiency of various types of therapeutic agents or agents designed to promote the transdermal delivery of those therapeutic agents either into the skin tissue or into the systemic circulation. Three major classes of molecules are covalently joined as bifunctional substances; chemical vasodilators, passive dermal penetration enhancers and therapeutic or diagnostic drugs. Chemical vasodilators may be delivered into the skin to increasing the blood flow in a tissue that has compromised circulation or they may be used as part of a delivery vehicle to promote the delivery of the drug. Passive dermal penetration enhancers are those chemicals that promote the passive penetration of drugs and other chemicals through the stratum corneum and epidermis of the skin tissue. Drugs and diagnostic agents are the third group of chemicals that are candidates for the linkage of molecules. |
| US08354115B2 |
CD40 ligand adjuvant for respiratory syncytial virus
The present invention provides methods and adjuvants for enhancing an immune response to RSV in a host, wherein the methods and adjuvants comprise a source of a CD40 binding protein. Preferably, the CD40 binding protein is CD40L and the source is a vector comprising a promoter operatively linked to a CD40L coding region. The enhanced immune response produced by the adjuvants and methods of the current invention includes both increased expression of Th1 cytokines and increased production of antibody. |
| US08354111B2 |
Stable cell binding chimeric peptides
The present invention relates to novel family of homologous cell attachment chimeric peptides. In particular, the present invention relates to chimeric peptides, each comprising synthetic peptides comprising (a) an M-tide comprising an amino acid sequence that is at least 80% homologous to the amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of: SEQ ID NO:1, 2 and 37; and (b) a core haptide comprising an amino acid sequence homologous to amino acid sequences at the carboxy termini of the and E chains of fibrinogen or other proteins comprising C-termini that are homologous to said fibrinogen sequences, wherein the M-tide and the core haptide originate from the same protein. The synthetic peptides are linked to one another thereby providing the chimeric peptides of the invention which does not occur in the native protein as a continuous sequence. The present invention further discloses pharmaceutical compositions comprising said chimeric peptides and uses thereof. |
| US08354110B2 |
Compositions and methods for the prevention and treatment of autoimmune conditions
The methods include selectively reducing or expanding T cells according to the antigenic specificity of the T cells. Therefore, the present invention can be used to reduce or eliminate pathogenic T cells that recognize autoantigens, such as beta cell specific T cells. As such, the present invention can be used to prevent, treat or ameliorate autoimmune diseases such as IDDM. Furthermore, the present invention can be used to expand desirable T cells, such as anti-pathogenic T cells to prevent, treat and/or ameliorate autoimmune diseases. |
| US08354102B2 |
Antibodies directed to mGluR7
The present invention provides an antibody directed to an epitope of a G-protein coupled receptor, wherein the antibody binds to the extracellular N-terminal region of the receptor and the binding of the antibody to the G-protein coupled receptor induces receptor internalization in cells. |
| US08354099B2 |
Skin-care compositions and uses thereof
Composition of a Dead Sea extract and at least one plant extract of a Himalayan origin are provided for topical applications. |
| US08354098B2 |
Clear hair gel fixatives
This invention details the use of a simple blend of polyvinyl formamide and one or more polyvinyl alcohols as the fixative polymer system in a clear hair gel composition. The interaction of the polymer system and gelling agents provides clarity of less than 20 NTU and other physical properties such as good curl compression, resistance to high humidity and resistance to flaking. |
| US08354096B2 |
Water-free antiperspirant sprays with improved substance
An antiperspirant composition for personal hygiene is formulated as a suspension which can be sprayed with or without a propellant, and contains at least one antiperspirant substance, 0-5 wt. % free water, based on the weight of the propellant-free composition, and triethylcitrate and at least one additional cosmetic oil, which is liquid under normal conditions, as a carrier. The weight fraction of the triethylcitrate with respect to the total amount of oils is between 13-50 wt. % based on the total weight of the propellant-free composition. The composition also includes and 0 to less than 1 wt. % cyclomethicone, based on the weight of the propellant-free composition. |
| US08354088B2 |
Methods and apparatus for recovery of silicon and silicon carbide from spent wafer-sawing slurry
Methods, systems, and apparatus are disclosed herein for recovery of high-purity silicon, silicon carbide and PEG from a slurry produced during a wafer cutting process. A silicon-containing material can be processed for production of a silicon-rich composition. Silicon carbide and PEG recovered from the silicon-containing material can be used to form a wafer-saw cutting fluid. The silicon-rich composition can be reacted with iodine containing compounds that can be purified and/or used to form deposited silicon of high purity. The produced silicon can be used in the photovoltaic industry or semiconductor industry. |
| US08354080B2 |
Fluid interface cartridge for a microfluidic chip
An interface cartridge for a microfluidic chip, with microfluidic process channels and fluidic connection holes at opposed ends of the process channels, provides ancillary fluid structure, including fluid flow channels and input and/or waste wells, which mix and/or convey reaction fluids to the fluidic connection holes and into the process channels of the microfluidic chip. |
| US08354078B2 |
Liquid aspirating tube, liquid dispensing apparatus and liquid dispensing method
The present invention is to present a liquid dispensing apparatus which is capable of preventing contamination by previously aspirated liquid, even when residual liquid in a pipette tip separated from the dispensing apparatus is scattered. The liquid dispensing apparatus includes: sample dispensing arm 5 which comprises a dispensing nozzle 54b for aspirating and discharging sample on which a pipette tip 200 is attached; tip separating section 140 for separating the pipette tip 200 from the dispensing nozzle 54b; and nozzle wiping section 16 for cleaning a tip of the dispensing nozzle 54b. |
| US08354074B2 |
Test module with low-volume reagent reservoir
A test module for biochemical processing and analysis, the test module having an outer casing dimensioned for hand-held portability, the outer casing having a receptacle for receiving biochemical liquid, and, a reagent reservoir containing a reagent for addition to the biochemical liquid for use in chemical analysis of the biochemical liquid, wherein, the reagent reservoir has a volume less than 1000,000,000 cubic microns. |
| US08354070B2 |
Heat recovery system
A moving disk type tube reactor for continuously pyrolyzing waste tire chips and preventing accumulation of remainders produced by pyrolysis, includes: a heating tube having at the ends thereof inflow and outflow ports for allowing high-temperature gas to flow; a first transfer tube penetrating the heating tube and having an input port for inputting the chips at one end thereof; a second transfer tube disposed parallel to the first transfer tube; a driving part disposed at the other end of the first and second transfer tubes, having a driving sprocket driven by a driving motor, and having a discharge port discharging oil vapor; a driven part disposed at one end of the transfer tubes, having a driven sprocket and a discharge port discharging pyrolyzed carbon black to the outside; a chain penetrating the transfer tubes and wound on the sprockets to circulate; and a plurality of disks along the chain. |
| US08354069B2 |
Plug flow system for identification and authentication of markers
Devices and methods for extraction, identification, authentication, and quantification of one or more covert markers in a material are disclosed. An extraction system includes a first plug flow mixer for mixing a first fluid bearing a marker and transfer agent into a plug flow. The mixing and flowing of the immiscible liquids causes transfer of the marker from the fluid to the transfer agent. A splitter having filters of different surface energies separates the two immiscible liquids, the transfer agent bearing the marker. A second plug flow can be used to transfer the marker to a second transfer agent. The transferred marker is detected to authenticate the original fluid. The marker can be further isolated, activated, or reacted to perform detection, identification or authentication. With the device, a number of independent processing and analytic steps are combined onto a single, portable unit. |
| US08354068B2 |
Method of driving heating unit for reformer, and reformer and fuel cell system including the same
A method of driving a heating unit for a fuel cell reformer, a reformer applied with the method for driving the heating unit, and/or a fuel cell system including the reformer. The method includes: supplying an oxidant to the heating unit and absorbing the oxidant by a fuel oxidizing catalyst of the heating unit; supplying a fuel at an excessive amount to the heating unit and absorbing the fuel by the fuel oxidizing catalyst of the heating unit; and supplying the fuel and the oxidant to the heating unit at a stoichiometric ratio of the fuel to the oxidant ranging from 1:1 to 2:1, wherein the heating unit generates heat through an oxidizing catalyst reaction between the fuel and the oxidant. |
| US08354065B1 |
Catalyst charge heater
This device is an FCC Catalyst Charge Heater. The device uses a catalyst cooler to preheat FCC feedstocks. It can be used with or without an FCC Catalyst Heater in the regenerator to satisfy the FCC unit heat balance while maximizing liquid volume yield and reducing FCC emissions. |
| US08354063B2 |
Pumping apparatus and process for polymerization in loop reactors
An olefin polymerization process and apparatus wherein a fluid slurry comprising monomer, diluent and catalyst is circulated in a continuous loop reactor by two or more pumps. The process and apparatus allow operating the reaction at significantly higher solids content in the circulating fluid slurry. In a preferred embodiment, the fluid slurry is circulated by two impellers arranged so that the downstream impeller benefits from the rotational energy imparted by the upstream impeller. An olefin polymerization process operating at higher reactor solids by virtue of more aggressive circulation has improved efficiencies, particularly in larger-volume reactors. |
| US08354061B2 |
Air purification system and method for cleaning air
Air purification systems comprising a plurality of disks, and methods for their use, are provided. Each of the plurality of disks comprises a metal substrate, an undercoat layer disposed on the metal substrate, a photosensitive layer disposed on the undercoat layer, and a charge transfer layer disposed on the photosensitive layer. |
| US08354060B2 |
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation system
A modular germicidal light grid system for use inside an air treatment apparatus that has a plenum in which a stream of air is enclosed. The system comprises at least one elongate member and at least one lamp assembly. Each lamp assembly comprises a housing defining at least one socket and is mounted to one elongate member at a predetermined position. The system further comprises at least one linear germicidal light source. Each light source has a longitudinal axis and a distal end constructed and arranged to mount within one socket of the housing. The elongate member is mounted within the plenum and the lamp assembly is mounted to the elongate member such that the longitudinal axis of the light source extends therein the stream of air and is positioned at an acute light angle relative to the direction of flow of the stream of air. |
| US08354058B2 |
In situ heat induced antigen recovery and staining apparatus and method
An automated in situ heat induced antigen recovery and staining method and apparatus for treating a plurality of microscope slides. The process of heat induced antigen recovery and the process of staining the biological sample on the microscope slide are conducted in the same apparatus, wherein the microscope slides do not need to be physically removed from one apparatus to another. Each treatment step occurs within the same reaction compartment. The reaction conditions of each reaction compartment for treating a slide can preferably be controlled independently, including the individualized application of reagents to each slide and the individualized treatment of each slide. |
| US08354055B2 |
Cellulose ether additives for the extrusion of ceramic masses
The present invention relates to extrudable ceramic masses and other masses which set as a result of baking or sintering, which masses comprise specific additives based on water-soluble cellulose ethers, an extrusion process, the extrudates and their use. |
| US08354050B2 |
Co-molded direct flock and flock transfer and methods of making same
A method of decorating a molded article is provided that includes the steps of: (a) providing a mold insert comprising a plurality of flock fibers and a permanent adhesive layer; (b) positioning the mold insert in a mold; and (c) introducing resin into the mold, such that a resin contacts the mold insert to form a molded article. The melting point of the permanent adhesive layer is preferably greater than a temperature of the resin during molding. |
| US08354041B2 |
Composition and process for whitening paper
A composition suitable for surface treatment of paper, wherein the composition contains a specified fluorescent whitening agent with alkylsulfonic acid groups, a salt of a bivalent cation, and a carrier. The composition is used for whitening paper, in particular in the size press. |
| US08354040B1 |
Carbonate phase change materials
Phase change materials that include oleochemical carbonates absorb and release latent heat upon changing phases from solid to liquid (melting) or from liquid to solid (solidifying). The oleochemical carbonates are prepared from oleochemical alcohols derived from animal fats and vegetable oils or other bio-based substances. These oleochemical carbonates have melting temperatures with a relatively high heat of fusion and are non-corrosive. Oleochemical carbonates can be mixed together in various proportions to adjust melting/solidification temperature ranges as required by a particular application. |
| US08354036B2 |
Method for the pre-treatment of titanium components for the subsequent coating thereof
A method for the pre-treatment of titanium components for the subsequent coating thereof is provided. The method includes at least the following steps: a) etching of the component in an acidic solution containing fluoride and nitric acid (HNO3); b) activation pickling of the etched component in a solution containing at least sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and tetrafluoroboric acid (HBF4); and c) activation of the activation-pickled component in a bath containing acid or in an acidic bath containing nickel. |
| US08354034B2 |
Method of manufacturing a magnetic head
A magnetic head suitable for high-density recording is provided at a high yield by a method that suppresses a reduction in reproducing output signal due to ion-beam irradiation. After an air-bearing surface of a read element, a magnetic-head element, or a row bar is mechanically polished, the air-bearing surface is irradiated with an ion beam, such that an orthographic projection of an ion-beam incidence direction onto the air-bearing surface forms an in-plane incidence angle of 30 degrees to 150 degrees or of 210 degrees to 330 degrees with respect to a track-width direction. Thereby, the formation of a short circuit due to ion-beam irradiation may be hindered. |
| US08354027B2 |
Sludge extraction system for biological waste water reactors
A reactor for biological purification of waste water includes a reactor vessel having a substantially flat or a round bottom, at least one supply pipe arranged in a lower region of the reactor vessel for feeding the waste water to be purified into the reactor, at least one fluid discharge pipe for discharging purified waste water from the reactor, at least one solid matter discharge pipe arranged in the lower region of the reactor vessel for discharging solid matter from the reactor and at least one diverting means including at least one diagonally extending section. The at least one diverting means is designed and/or arranged so that solids sinking to the bottom of the reactor from the upper region of the reactor are deflected so that the solids settle in a region of the at least one solid matter discharge pipe and are discharged from the reactor through the at least one solid matter discharge pipe. |
| US08354025B2 |
Osmotic pump for forward osmosis devices
A self-regulating FO system is disclosed comprising a container containing a source water supply, a forward osmosis membrane element located within the container comprising an area of osmotic membranes, an osmotic agent inlet and a drink outlet, an osmotic pump element also located within the container comprising an area of osmotic membranes, an osmotic agent inlet and a drink outlet, and an osmotic agent tank located above the container. The osmotic agent tank comprises a feed tube connected to an outlet located on the bottom of the osmotic agent tank. The feed tube communicates with the osmotic agent inlet of the forward osmosis membrane unit and the osmotic agent inlet of the osmotic pump element. A return tube communicates with the drink outlet of the osmotic pump element and a port near the top of the osmotic agent tank. |
| US08354024B2 |
Refrigeration device and water filter for said device
A water filter for a refrigeration appliance has a housing (1), which contains a filter material and has a fitting for mounting in a filter socket (2) at one end. A grip portion (8) is attached to an opposite end (3) of the housing (1). |
| US08354021B2 |
System of water collecting, cleaning, and storing
A system of water collecting, cleaning, and storing comprises a top-opened water storing container (1), with the wall of which a watertight structure; a collecting well (2) provided in the water storing container (1), which has a lid (6) and has a wall of permeable structure through which water exchange between the water storing container (1) and the collecting well (2) is achieved; filling elements (4) filled between the collecting well (2) and the water storing container (1), on top of which a pervious surface layer (5) is paved. |
| US08354019B2 |
Process for reducing benzene content of hydrocarbon stream using microporous carbon adsorbent
The present invention is related with the application of an adsorbent material of microporous carbon (MCA), prepared from the direct pyrolysis of copolymers generically known as Saran, in adsorption processes to reduce the benzene content in naphtha boiling range hydrocarbon streams, between 27 and 191° C., in which is preferable to perform a first separation by distillation of the C6's fraction, and a further separation of Benzene by adsorption through an adsorbent material bed, obtaining the fraction of C6's free of Benzene and an adsorbent with Benzene, which is further regenerated by pressure or temperature swing desorption or by displacement using a desorbent such as an inert gas at high temperature or by passing a desorbent which after the process, the desorbent and Benzene are separated by distillation. The fraction of C6's free of Benzene is reintegrated to the hydrocarbon stream and providing a gasoline with a Benzene content less than 1 volume %. Besides, the application of the MCA in this type of process allows obtaining Benzene with a minimum purity of 99.8 weight % and a maximum toluene content of 0.1 weight %, satisfying the specifications of ASTM D-2359-02 for Refined Benzene-535. |
| US08354017B2 |
Method and cell for measuring the global ion concentration of a body fluid
Method for measuring the global ion concentration of a body fluid that comprises application of a stable DC voltage between first and second electrodes of a cell for measuring the global ion concentration of a body fluid so as to cause electrochemical hydrolysis reactions of the body fluid water to occur at the level of said first and second electrodes, measurement of a hydrolysis current generated by said electrochemical hydrolysis reactions of the water and determination of the global ion concentration of the body fluid by comparison with a previously defined calibration curve. The measuring cell comprises a fluid channel having an internal cross-section smaller than or equal to 1.5 mm. |
| US08354014B2 |
Palladium complex and catalyst-imparting treatment solution using the same
There are provided technologies for adsorbing a catalyst metal selectively to an anionic group such as a carboxyl group, thereby forming a metal film on a nonconductive resin selectively, including a palladium complex represented by the following formula (I): wherein L represents an alkylene group and R represents an amino group or a guanidyl group, or a structural isomer thereof, a processing solution for electroless plating catalyst application containing the complex as an active component, and a method for forming a metal plated film on a nonconductive resin, containing subjecting a nonconductive resin having a surface anionic group to a catalyst adsorbing treatment using the processing solution and then to a reduction treatment, electroless metal plating, and metal electroplating. |
| US08354010B2 |
Electrolytic cell with cavitating jet
The electrolytic cell of the preferred embodiment includes an electrode pair and a cavitating jet. The electrode pair includes a cathode electrode and an anode electrode and defines an electrical path between the cathode electrode and the anode electrode. The cavitating jet, which is located along the electrical path between the cathode electrode and the anode electrode, functions to cavitate a fluid, such as water. The electrode pair and the cavitating jet cooperate to initiate a plasma state in the water. The water in the plasma state acts a virtual electrode with a higher current density than the cathode electrode and/or anode electrode. The plasma virtual electrode, through thermolysis and/or electrolysis, produces hydrogen. |
| US08354008B2 |
Article and method for manufacturing same
An article includes a substrate; and a color layer deposited on the substrate, wherein the color layer is a zirconium carbon-nitride layer; the color layer has an L* value between about 28 to about 32, an a* value between about −1 to about 1, and a b* value between about −1 to about 1 in the CIE L*a*b* color space. |
| US08354005B2 |
Microwave gasification, pyrolysis and recycling of waste and other organic materials
Apparatus for the destructive reclamation of materials and energy from municipal wastes and other raw materials through the use of Microwave induced Gasification and Pyrolysis, where the waste or raw material may be circulated once or several times through the process thus enabling the programming of different processes to differing materials and desired end products. The form employed being linear, circulating conveyors or rotating carousels that may carry trays or crucibles, some of which may be equipped with linings that absorb microwaves to enable the early charring of materials that do not initially absorb microwaves and thus will not heat up on their own. |
| US08354001B2 |
Processing thin wafers
There is described a wafer processing system for thinned wafers that are easily broken during handling. The system protects against breakage during handling and provides for temperature controls during processing. |
| US08353999B2 |
Method of manufacturing elastic sheet, and elastic sheet and absorbent product
In a manufacturing apparatus of an absorbent product, extended elastic yarns to be a first middle elastic member and extended elastic yarns to be leg elastic members are bonded between a first sheet and a second sheet and arranged crossing each other in manufacturing an outer covering sheet. A first middle elastic member and an inclined part of the leg elastic members crossing the first middle elastic member are simultaneously and reliably cut in a crossing area of the both elastic members by first cutting blades tilted relatively to a direction where the first middle elastic member is positioned and second cutting blades tilted relatively to a direction where the inclined part is positioned. Thus, it is possible to easily form the outer covering sheet which maintains elasticity in a required portion and has high flexibility. |
| US08353995B2 |
Automobile panel repair laminate
Automobile panel repair laminates include a pressure sensitive adhesive bonded to a support backing. The support backing may be constructed of various materials such as plastically deformable polymeric materials including thermoplastic or thermoset materials and may have various thicknesses depending upon the desired conformability and rigidity necessary for the repair. The support backing may be bonded to the pressure sensitive adhesive by applying adhesion promoters such as solvents. The repair laminate is applied to a back or non-aesthetic side of the automobile panel, and the front side is repaired using standard techniques for filling and finishing. |
| US08353994B2 |
Propulsion system for the acceleration of projectiles
The propulsion system for the acceleration of projectiles is based on nitrocellulose and contains a crystalline energy carrier on a nitramine base and an inert plasticizing additive. The nitramine compound contains a structural element of the general chemical structure formula R—N—NO2, where R is a residual.The nitramine compound is present in a concentration in the range from 1 to 35% by weight, in particular in the range from 5 to 25% by weight. The nitramine compound is preferably RDX. The inert plasticizing additive is a water-insoluble polyoxo compound, if necessary in combination with a substance containing carboxyl groups. In layers near the surface an increased concentration can be present. The inert plasticizing additive is present in a concentration of 1 to 5% by weight. |
| US08353993B2 |
Aluminum alloy wire
An aluminum alloy, an aluminum alloy wire, an aluminum alloy stranded wire, a covered electric wire, and a wire harness that are of high toughness and high electrical conductivity, and a method of manufacturing an aluminum alloy wire are provided. The aluminum alloy wire contains not less than 0.005% and not more than 2.2% by mass of Fe, and a remainder including Al and an impurity. It may further contain not less than 0.005% and not more than 1.0% by mass in total of at least one additive element selected from Mg, Si, Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn, Ag, Cr, and Zr. The Al alloy wire has an electrical conductivity of not less than 58% IACS and an elongation of not less than 10%. The Al alloy wire is manufactured through the successive steps of casting, rolling, wiredrawing, and softening treatment. The softening treatment can be performed to provide an excellent toughness such as elongation and impact resistance and thereby reduce fracture of the electric wire in the vicinity of a terminal portion when the wire harness is installed. |
| US08353991B2 |
Temperature detection during zeolite drying
A dishwashing machine is provided having a washing compartment, a drying unit that includes an absorption column with a reversibly dehydratable drying agent, and having an air circulation loop through the washing compartment and the drying unit. A temperature sensor is arranged in front of the drying unit and to the rear of the washing compartment with respect to the direction of the flow of air circulating in the air circulation loop. |
| US08353983B2 |
Shrinkage reducing agent
To provide shrinkage reducing agents which render excellent shrinkage reducing effect and frost-thaw resistance to cement compositions such as mortar and concrete without entraining excessive air, and exhibit excellent solution stability.The shrinkage reducing agent comprises a (poly)alkylene compound having an unsaturated bond represented by the formula (1): R2O—R1—O-(A1O)n—R3 (1) -(A2O)m—R4 (2) (wherein R1 is a C2-10 hydrocarbon group having an unsaturated bond; R2 is hydrogen or the formula (2); R3 and R4 are each independently hydrogen or a C1-8 alkyl group; A1O and A2O are one or more kinds of C2-4 oxyalkylene groups; and n and m are mean addition numbers of moles of A1O and A2O, respectively, and 1 to 20). |
| US08353972B2 |
Synthetic fuel and method of preparation thereof
Disclosed is a novel synthetic fuel as alternative to diesel, wherein said synthetic fuel comprises branched esters and wherein the fuel having improved fuel properties such as zero aromatic, zero olefin, zero sulphur, low pour, high cetane diesel fuel with improved lubricity and oxidative stability. Further, the present invention provides a method of preparation of said esters. |
| US08353971B2 |
Flexible envelope type battery and electrically conductible sealing structure thereof and assembling method thereof
A flexible-envelope type battery and an electrically conductible sealing structure thereof and an assembling method thereof are provided. The battery includes an electrode pair, a flexible envelope and a pair of electrically conductible sealing structures. Each sealing structure includes a conductive terminal and a fixed member. The conductive terminal includes a bottom board and a protruding block, for conducting an electric current from the electrode pair to the outside. The bottom board is disposed within the flexible envelope and combined with the electrode pair. The protruding block is disposed on the bottom board for passing through and protruding from an upper surface of the flexible envelope. The fixed member is for tightly fixing the flexible envelope and the conductive terminal. |
| US08353966B2 |
Scaffold for bone and tissue repair in mammals
A mammalian tissue scaffold and method for making a tissue scaffold including a rigid scaffold body of biocompatible glass fibers bonded together and in special alignment to define open channels within the scaffold to allow fluid flow into and within the scaffold. |
| US08353965B2 |
Small joint orthopedic implants and their manufacture
A technique to manufacture small joint orthopedic implants includes the steps of taking standard radiographs of a pathologic joint and the corresponding non-pathologic joint. In order to provide an accurate frame of reference, a specialized marker is placed in the radiographic field. By inspection of the radiographs and by comparison with the marker, the dimensions of the cortical bone and the cancellous bone can be quickly and accurately determined. These dimensions can be used to manufacture a suitable implant and installation tool. Typically, the implant will include a stem from which a post projects. A radially extending collar is located at the intersection between the stem and the post. A mating head is attached to the post. The head closely approximates the size and shape of the natural head being replaced. The stem will be non-round in cross-section to prevent rotation of the stem in the bone. For many applications, the head will not be fixedly attached to the post, but will be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the post. One or more spacers that fit about the stem also can be provided in order to adjust the distance that the head projects from the bone. |
| US08353964B2 |
Anatomic total disc replacement
An artificial spinal disc prosthesis that can be implanted to replace a damaged natural spinal disc. A nucleus of compressible elastomeric material is surrounded by a winding of a slender strand of flexible tension-bearing material oriented at a pitch angle relative to a central axis. The orientation of the winding provides the prosthesis a limited amount of freedom of movement and flexibility. A pair of end caps of the prosthetic implant include angulated grooves that allow for insertion of the device between vertebral bodies from any of several directions. Special fasteners provide protruding points useful in anchoring the prosthesis. |
| US08353961B2 |
Expandable vertebral device with cam lock
An expandable cage supports adjacent vertebra in spine surgery. The expandable cage includes a first supporting member configured to engage tissue and a second supporting member operatively associated with the first supporting member. The first and second supporting members are movable relative to each other. The expandable cage further includes a cam lock mechanism configured to maintain the first and second supporting members in a fixed relative position. In another embodiment, the expandable cage includes a ring plate lock mechanism in lieu of the cam lock mechanism. The ring plate lock mechanism is adapted to maintain the first and second supporting members in a fixed relative position. |
| US08353959B2 |
Push-in interbody spinal fusion implants for use with self-locking screws
An apparatus including an interbody spinal fusion implant having a leading end, a trailing end, and a length therebetween, and opposed upper and lower portions adapted to contact each of the adjacent vertebral bodies. Each of the upper and lower portions having at least one opening adapted to communicate with one each of the adjacent vertebral bodies and to communicate with one another to permit for the growth of bone from vertebral body to adjacent vertebral body through the implant. Each of the upper and lower portions has at least one screw hole passing therethrough proximate the trailing end. The apparatus further includes bone screws adapted for placement through the screw holes of the upper and lower portions and into each of the adjacent vertebral bodies adjacent the disc space to be fused and into which the implant is adapted to be positioned. |
| US08353958B2 |
Adjustable insertion device for a vertebral implant
Intervertebral implants configured to engage with an insertion device for insertion between first and second vertebral members. The implants may include a body with a sidewall that forms an interior space. An opening may extend through the sidewall and into the interior space. Receptacles may be positioned at the opening and include an inlet to receive the insertion device. |
| US08353956B2 |
Actively-engageable movement-restriction mechanism for use with an annuloplasty structure
Apparatus is provided, including a locking mechanism, an implant, and a flexible strip within the implant having a plurality of recesses. A perimeter of the strip shortens and expands when the first end of the strip is advanced bidirectionally with respect to a second end of the strip. The locking mechanism includes a moveable recess-engaging portion, a mechanical support removably coupled to the recess-engaging portion, and a force applicator which maintains the recess-engaging portion in a position in which the recess-engaging portion is not disposed in any of the recesses. Upon decoupling of the mechanical support from the recess-engaging portion, the force applicator restricts motion of the plurality of recesses of the strip with respect to the second end of the strip, by facilitating positioning of the recess-engaging portion in one of the plurality of recesses. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08353947B2 |
Eversible locking mechanism for modular stents
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for locking self-expanding modular stent components together using an eversible extension on the male component. The male component is deployed partially within the female component, and with the eversible extension eversed over the male component. |
| US08353944B2 |
Bifurcation delivery system
A catheter assembly comprises a catheter shaft having a proximal region a distal region and a rotational seal therebetween. The rotational seal comprises a first component fixedly engaged to the proximal region and a second component fixedly engaged to the distal region. The components engaged in an overlapping arrangement. The rotational seal is actuatable between a non-activated and activated states. In the non-activated state the first component and the second component are separated by a gap which provides for the distal region of the catheter shaft to be rotatable relative to the proximal region. In the activated state at least a portion of the first component and the second component being sealingly engaged together such that distal region is made static relative to the proximal region. |
| US08353937B2 |
Spinal stabilization systems and methods
A spinal stabilization system, apparatus, and method are disclosed which include an interconnection mechanism for engaging stabilization members to one another. In one embodiment, the interconnection mechanism comprises a locking member having first and second threaded segments. An anchor member is provided having an upper segment and a lower segment, wherein the lower segment is structurally configured for engagement with a respective bone segment. A first stabilization member is connected to the upper segment of the anchor member. A locking member is engaged with the anchor member such that the first stabilization member is fixedly secured to the anchor member by a lower portion of the locking member having a first threaded segment. A second stabilization member is connected to an upper portion of the locking member by a cap that is threaded onto a second threaded segment of the locking member. |
| US08353930B2 |
Structure for applying sprayable wound treatment material
The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments, structures and methods for enhancing the properties of tissue to be repaired or joined. According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical stapling apparatus is provided including a wound treatment material dispersion system for delivering wound treatment material to a target surgical site. The dispersion system includes an aperture formed in the anvil assembly oriented to dispense wound treatment material in an outward direction; and a source of wound treatment material in fluid communication with the aperture of the anvil assembly. |
| US08353929B2 |
Vascular wound closing apparatus and method
Wound closure apparatus is provided including a body having an elongated, lowermost force-transmitting surface operable to be placed in a proximal, external, wound-closing position on a patient, together with a force-exerting assembly coupled with the body and operable to exert a downwardly directed force serving to generate wound-closing pressure against the patient's tissue. The force-transmitting surface is preferably three-dimensionally asymmetric so that forces of different magnitude are exerted at different locations along the length of the surface. The apparatus is especially designed for the closure of wounds attendant to endovascular interventions, e.g., a femoral artery puncture wound incident to percutaneous cardiac intervention (PCI), and is capable of quickly effecting wound closure with a time-to-ambulation (TTA) of approximately 60 minutes, and with a very low complication rate. |
| US08353927B2 |
Radial artery compression device
A radial artery compression device configured to be secured to a wrist or other portion of a patient to provide adjustable and consistent compression pressure in the area of a radial artery access site or other physiological portion of a patient to achieve hemostasis either during or after a medical procedure such as a percutaneous coronary procedure. The radial artery compression device includes a rotatable member and a compression pad adapted such that rotation of the rotatable member does not affect the rotational orientation of the compression pad. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a single rotation of the rotatable member results in complete extension or retraction of the radial artery compression device. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the rotation of the rotatable member results in a compounding of the extension or retraction of the compression pad relative to the body of the radial artery compression device. |
| US08353926B2 |
Long-term retrievable medical filter
A medical filter has more than one pair of struts extending along an undulating path between a first and second end, which cooperate to define a first and second filter element having a plurality of cells, connected by a central portion with longitudinal strut sections. The struts extend between the first and second ends, and the struts tend to resiliently expand in radially outward directions from a compressed initial shape to an expanded deployed shape. In the expanded shape, the undulating path is defined by (i) a first portion of each pair of ribs extends substantially adjacent to each other for a distance from the first end, (ii) a second portion of each pair of ribs extends substantially adjacent to each other for a distance from the second end; and (iii) an intermediate portion of each one of a pair of ribs extends to curve away from each other. |
| US08353921B2 |
Tissue connector apparatus and methods
Tissue connector assemblies having at least two piercing members, each releaseably coupled to a surgical fastener such as a surgical clip. A flexible member such as a suture may be used to couple one or both piercing members to respective ends of the fastener. |
| US08353916B2 |
Quick-release guide assembly for elements of or for an external fixation system
A quick-release guide assembly for an external fixation system has a body with at least one hole and a handle portion with a handle bar. The device body comprises at least one extension having a first coupling portion. The handle comprises a complementary second coupling portion, wherein one coupling portion comprising a spring actuated locking pin, wherein an actuator knob is provided to release the locking pin. Therefore the coupling portion of the handle can be releasably attached to the guide body, enabling a quick change of device bodies having different oriented and arranged holes. |
| US08353913B2 |
Bi-directional fixating transvertebral body screws and posterior cervical and lumbar interarticulating joint calibrated stapling devices for spinal fusion
A self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatus is disclosed which includes at least first and second sliding boxes. A first screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body is disposed within the first sliding box, and a second screw member having a tapered end and a threaded body disposed within the second sliding box. An adjuster adjusts the height of the sliding boxes. The screw members are screwed into vertebral bodies in order to fuse the vertebral bodies together. A plurality of the self-drilling bone fusion screw apparatuses may be attached together and/or integrated via a plate or cage. Also disclosed is a cervical facet staple that includes a curved staple base and at least two prongs attached to the bottom surface of the curved staple base. |
| US08353909B2 |
Surgical instrument for distracting a spinal disc space
Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted, a hollow sleeve having teeth at one end is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. Apparatus and a method of inserting spinal implants is disclosed in which an intervertebral space is first distracted to restore the normal angular relationship of the vertebrae adjacent to that disc space. An extended outer sleeve having extended portions capable of maintaining the vertebrae distracted in their normal angular relationship is then driven into the vertebrae adjacent that disc space. A drill is then passed through the hollow sleeve removing disc and bone in preparation for receiving the spinal implant which is then inserted through the sleeve. |
| US08353908B2 |
Treatment of tissue in sphincters, sinuses, and orifices
The invention comprises a method and apparatus for treatment of a body part. More particularly, a method and apparatus for heat treatment of tissue using a catheter inserted into a body part is described along with means for positioning the catheter and means for positioning a set of electrodes relative to a tissue sample for treatment. Still more particularly, radio frequency energy at about 400 to 500 kilohertz is used to provide heat for the tissue treatment. |
| US08353904B2 |
Electrosurgical radio frequency energy transmission medium
A system and method for transmitting electrosurgical energy from a generator to an electrosurgical instrument are provided. The electrosurgical system includes a generator adapted to generate electro surgical energy for treating tissue. The generator includes one or more active output terminals which supply energy to the tissue. The active output terminals are operatively connected to one or more supply lines. The generator also includes one or more return output terminal which returns energy from the tissue. The return output terminals are operatively connected to at least one return line. The system also includes an electrosurgical instrument operatively connected to the one or more supply lines and one or more return electrodes operatively connected to one or more return lines. The system further includes an electrosurgical cable including one or more supply lines and one or more return lines. The one or more supply lines and one or more return lines are wound in a double helix fashion such that the electrical field along the cable is mitigated along the length thereof. |
| US08353901B2 |
Energy delivery conduits for use with electrosurgical devices
A conduit assembly for transmitting energy between an electrosurgical energy generator and an energy delivering device comprises a first cable sub-assembly including a cable having a flexibility and an energy attenuation; a second cable sub-assembly including a cable having a flexibility and an energy attenuation; wherein the flexibility of the cable of the first cable sub-assembly is less than the flexibility of the cable of the second cable sub-assembly; and wherein the energy attenuation of the cable of the first cable sub-assembly is less than the energy attenuation of the cable of the second cable sub-assembly. |
| US08353900B2 |
Miniature circular mapping catheter
An ablation device, including a catheter and an ablation element incorporating one or more balloons at the distal end of the catheter, has a continuous passageway extending through it from the proximal end of the catheter to the distal side of the expandable ablation element. The ablation device ablates tissue by subjecting it to ultrasound energy, cryogenic energy, chemical, laser beam, microwave, or radiation energy. A probe carrying electrodes is introduced through this passageway and deploys, under the influence of its own resilience, to a structure incorporating a loop which is automatically aligned with the axis of the expandable ablation device, so that minimal manipulation is required to place the probe. Pulmonary vein potential is monitored in real time via the electrodes. The probe may have an atraumatic tip with a ball formed at the leading edge. The atraumatic tip prevents any tissue damage such as perforation of heart wall. |
| US08353899B1 |
Multiple-mode device for high-power short-pulse laser ablation and CW cauterization of bodily tissues
An apparatus and process using a high-power, short-pulsed thulium laser to output infrared laser pulses delivered through an optical fiber, for cutting and ablating biological tissue. In some embodiments, the pulse length is shortened sufficiently to keep inside the stress-confined ablation region of operation. In some embodiments, the pulse is shortened to near the stress-confined ablation region of operation, while being slightly in the thermal-constrained region of operation. In some embodiments, the laser is coupled to a small low —OH optical fiber (˜100 μm diameter). In some embodiments, the device has a pulse duration of about 100 ns for efficient ablation; however in some embodiments, this parameter is adjustable. |
| US08353896B2 |
Controllable release nasal system
Embodiments of devices and system for controllable nasal delivery of materials are described. Methods of use of such devices and system and software for controlling the operation of such devices and systems are also disclosed. |
| US08353892B2 |
Devices and methods for controlled-depth injection
Devices and methods for simultaneous injection or delivery of two or more substances from separate syringes. The syringes are loaded into a device that has a handle and a screw driven mechanism for simultaneously depressing the plungers of the syringes. The user grasps the handle and positions the device. Thereafter, the screw mechanism is used to simultaneously advance the plungers of the syringes thereby simultaneously expelling the substances from the syringes. |
| US08353890B2 |
Tampon for feminine hygiene and process and apparatus for manufacturing the same
The invention relates to a tampon for feminine hygiene, with a tapered introductory end, a withdrawal end provided with a withdrawal means and a longitudinal axis, comprising a longitudinally extending absorbent body made from compressed fiber material, the absorbent body being densified more intensely in the region of the longitudinal axis and forming a fiber column, from which longitudinal ribs extend radially outward and flank longitudinal ribs in pairs. The tapered introductory end being formed by the fiber column, the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is provided with collecting grooves and collecting ribs to collect menstrual secretions, wherein the collecting grooves are open axially to the front and radially outward and wherein the collecting ribs flank the collecting grooves in pairs. The invention provides for an increased absorption capacity of the tampon in relation to the weight of the fiber material per tampon. |
| US08353878B2 |
Injection device comprising a locking nut
The invention relates to an injection device for injecting a dose of drug. The injection device comprises a housing, a dose setting mechanism being operable to set a desired dose, an injection mechanism comprising a piston rod (7) adapted to cooperate with a piston positioned in a cartridge containing a drug to be delivered in order to cause a set dose to be delivered from the cartridge via the injection device, a dosage tube (6), and retaining means arranged to prevent axial movement of the dosage tube in a distal direction relatively to the housing during dose setting. The dose setting mechanism comprises a rotatable dose knob (24), operation of the dose setting mechanism causing energy to be stored in a spring member. The injection mechanism is driven by releasing energy previously stored in the spring member during dose setting. |
| US08353877B2 |
Method for administering two components into the teat canal of a non-human animal
The invention relates to a method and device for treating or preventing or suppressing a disease or condition in a non-human animal. The method comprises the steps of providing a single delivery device containing two components for sequential delivery from the delivery device. A first component is delivered from the single delivery device into a teat canal of a non-human animal and subsequently the second component is delivered from the single delivery device into the teat canal. The components are delivered without substantial mixing of the components. |
| US08353872B2 |
Infusion pump
Infusion pumps according to the present invention maximize fluid throughput while minimizing vaporization of gas by employing specific flow path architecture, flow path dimensional ranges, and voltage and frequency ranges for activation of piezoelectric bodies. |
| US08353871B2 |
Drug delivery device with needles and roller
A delivery device including a roller rotatably mounted on an axle, a reservoir, and at least one hollow needle positioned in the roller are in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein as the roller rotates about the axle, contents of the reservoir pass through the at least one hollow needle. |
| US08353867B2 |
Medical devices
Medical devices and methods of making medical devices are described. In some embodiments, a medical device includes a member having a first portion with a first wall thickness, and a second portion with a second wall thickness, wherein the first portion is circumferentially rotated. |
| US08353863B2 |
Skin penetrating device and method for subcutaneous solid drug delivery
Embodiments described herein provide a skin penetrating device and method for the subcutaneous delivery of therapeutic agents in solid form. One embodiment provides such a device comprising an elongated shaft having proximal and distal ends and a skin penetrating element detachably coupled to the shaft. At least a portion of the penetrating element is fabricated from a solid form therapeutic agent composition that dissolves in body tissue and is absorbed into the blood stream so as to produce a therapeutic effect. The penetrating element has shape for penetrating and lodging beneath the skin when inserted through the skin by force applied from the shaft. The penetrating element is configured to detach from the shaft when the shaft is pulled away from the skin so as to leave the element in place beneath the skin where it is absorbed by body tissue and the therapeutic agent is released. |
| US08353856B2 |
Glaucoma drainage shunts and methods of use
Glaucoma treatments utilizing an implanted shunt having an elastomeric plate and a non-valved elastomeric drainage tube. The plate is positioned over a sclera of the eye with an outflow end of the elastomeric drainage tube open to an outer surface of the plate. An inflow end of the drainage tube tunnels through tissue to the anterior chamber of the eye. The drainage tube collapses upon insertion within an incision in the sclera and cornea, or at a kink on the outside of the incision, but has sufficient resiliency to restore its patency over time. Delayed fluid communication between the outflow and inflow ends of the drainage tube permits a scar tissue bleb to form around the plate. The plate desirably has a peripheral ridge and fenestrations, and a longer suturing tab extending from one side of the plate to enhance visibility and accessibility when suturing the shunt to the sclera. |
| US08353853B1 |
Encephalic insonication
Apparatus for encephalic insonication, comprising a transducer array configured to safely insonicate a field in a human body of a size comparable to the spatial extent of the array itself. The array comprises a plurality of acoustic transducers arranged in a polygonal configuration and energized in subsets at frequencies between 200 and 400 kHz. A relatively uniform insonication of a field comparable in size to that of significant anatomical regions of the brain is obtained by driving the transducers in each subset in opposed phase relationship during at least part of the interval during which they are active. A pulsed driving scheme enables minimization of heating effects while providing significant therapeutic treatment. The apparatus is useful both with and without additional lytic agents. |
| US08353840B1 |
Method and disposable apparatus for guiding needles with a double button unlocking and locking mechanism
An apparatus and method for guiding a needle in which the apparatus comprises a locking button for coupling the needle guide to a transceiver bracket and an unlocking button for unlatching the locking button from a coupling position, where both buttons are pushed in the same direction to accomplish their respective locking and unlatching. |
| US08353836B2 |
Ultrasonographic device for performing luminance correction
The present invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus realizing improved visibility of a contour shape of signal components in an ultrasonic blood flow spectrum display image. The apparatus includes a gray-level correction unit for correcting intensity of an output result of a Doppler processing unit. The Doppler processing unit calculates a Doppler frequency shift in a reception signal output from a receiver and calculates blood flow velocity of a subject on the basis of the Doppler frequency shift. The gray-level correction unit has: a filtering unit for separating a signal and a noise from each other, which are included in a time-varying waveform of the blood flow velocity of the subject obtained by the Doppler processing unit on the basis of continuity on a space defined by the blood flow velocity and time; and a gray-level corrector for performing a gray level correction using, as a parameter, a boundary value between signal intensity and noise intensity obtained by the filtering unit. |
| US08353833B2 |
Low-cost device for C-scan photoacoustic imaging
The prostate gland or other region of interest is stimulated with laser light, resulting in ultrasound waves (photoacoustic effect) which are focused by an acoustic lens and captured by a specific 1- or 2D sensor array and subsequently displayed as a C-scan on a computer screen. The amplitude of the ultrasound waves generated by laser stimulation is proportional to the optical absorption of the tissue element at that spatial location. Variability in tissue absorption results in C-scan image contrast. The photoacoustic imaging is combined with an ultrasound C-scan image produced with a plane ultrasound wave applied to the region of interest. |
| US08353831B2 |
Diagnostic ultrasound system and method of displaying elasticity image
A diagnostic ultrasound system includes an ultrasound transmitting and receiving system for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a object to be examined 10, an elasticity image capturing system for capturing an elasticity image related to body tissue of the object to be examined on the basis of a signal output from the ultrasound transmitting and receiving system, and a controlling and displaying system for capturing the elasticity image. The elasticity image capturing system obtains compression data related to the compression state of the object to be examined 10, determines the compression state of the body tissue on the basis of the compression data, and includes a compression direction and range evaluation unit 115 as a compression state evaluating means for reflecting the determination result to the elasticity image. In this way, more accurate diagnosis by objectively and quantitatively grasping the compression state of the body tissue is possible. |
| US08353826B2 |
Tissue retractor and method of use
Methods and devices for retracting tissue in a surgical procedure to allow access to the surgical site. Retractor systems and methods that comprise a retractor frame comprising rotatable arms and a linearly translatable arm, the rotatable arms and the linearly translatable arm each coupled to blades that can angulate. |
| US08353824B2 |
Access method with insert
Various devices and methods are provided with respect to inserting multiple surgical instruments through a single surgical access device. A medical device including a flexible tissue retractor and a releasable insert having multiple instrument openings is disclosed. The insert can be in the form of an insert assembly including multiple components. A method of using the insert is also described, and includes releasably positioning an insert having multiple instrument openings into the tissue retractor. |
| US08353822B2 |
Molded elastomer for endoscope
A molded elastomer for an endoscope is provided, which includes a fluorine-containing elastomer and a filler. The filler includes thermal black in a content of 1 to 10 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the fluorine-containing elastomer, and plate alumina in a content of 2 to 10 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the fluorine-containing elastomer. |
| US08353818B1 |
Endoscope tracking system and method
An endoscope tracking system includes an endoscope, at least one endoscope tracking transmitter carried by the endoscope, a plurality of anatomy mapping transmitters, a receiver communicating with the at least one endoscope tracking transmitter and the anatomy mapping transmitters and a processor communicating with the receiver. The processor is adapted to generate an anatomical map based on input from the anatomy mapping transmitters and an endoscope tracking image based on input from the at least one endoscope tracking transmitter and superimpose the endoscope tracking image on the anatomical map. |
| US08353815B2 |
Instrument for an endoscope
An instrument for an endoscope includes an insertion portion inserted into an instrument insertion channel of the endoscope, and a pair of biopsy cups provided at the distal end of the insertion portion so as to be able to be openable and closable. Also, an operation portion for operating the paired biopsy cups is provided at the proximal end of the insertion portion. The operation portion is provided with a hook, and an engaged member engageable with the hook is attached to a part protruding out from the endoscope, of the insertion portion. |
| US08353814B2 |
Apparatus and method for mounting an external scaffold to a vascular graft
A method for securing a compliant scaffold to an outer surface of a vascular graft includes positioning the scaffold radially about an elongated support tube which includes first and second radially outwardly flared end portions respectively defining first and second open ends of the support tube. The method further includes pulling the vascular graft through a lumen of the support tube, and axially deploying the scaffold over the first end portion of the support tube and into compliant contact with the outer surface of the vascular graft. |
| US08353810B2 |
Method for compiling groups of filter segments when producing multi-segment filter assemblies
A method of making segmented filters including moving substantially identical segments of one type at uniform rate to a transferring element, which places each segment separately on an exit path. Setting of the filter segments in a repeating group on the exit path is accomplished by delay in collecting segments by a transferring element in each module of the apparatus. Uniform positioning is effected using the transferring element which includes uniformly spaced drivers, and non-uniform positioning is effected using the transferring element with non-uniformly spaced drivers. The apparatus includes a guiding element positioned adjacent to a cutting drum and has a wall closing a channel for a set of segments drawn out of a flute on the drum. The filter set is led through the channel with the aid of a dog of a chain and is advanced by a worm surface of a pushing together drum. |
| US08353809B2 |
Method and device for facilitating use of an exercise ball
A method for using an exercise device for facilitating a user to perform a variety of exercises using an exercise ball supported on the device is disclosed. The device comprises a pouch having a mouth end wherein the pouch is configured to form a seat portion to the user. The device further includes a plurality of linking members attached to the mouth end by an attachment means and a plurality of straps. The lower end of the plurality of straps is secured to the linking members and the upper end of the plurality of straps is attached to a securing means. Each of the pair of straps is crisscrossed in preparation for attachment to the exercise ball. The crisscrossed straps are looped around the ball and secured by using the securing means. The crisscross arrangement of the straps securely holds the exercise ball in relation to the seat portion. |
| US08353808B1 |
Multi-directional rolling abdominal exercise device
Exercise devices for exercising the abdominal muscles and other muscle groups are disclosed. Each of the exercise devices has a housing from which opposing interconnected ends of an axle extend and a support ball that is captured within and partially extends from the housing. The housing has a cavity defining a partial sphere for receiving the support ball. Each of the exercise devices also comprises a plurality of strips which are attached to the surface of the cavity. Each of the strips includes a plurality of bearings each of which is captured within a bearing race. The strips are positioned upon the cavity surface so as to engage the support ball surface and to provide free-rolling support of the housing on the support ball in any direction when the exercise device is in use. Methods of using the exercise devices are also disclosed. |
| US08353807B2 |
Drop foot device
A method for compensating functional disabilities of the foot of a wearer including the steps of placing a shoe on a wearer; attaching a first attachment member about a lower leg of the wearer such that the first attachment member has a first connecting member flexibly extending from the first attachment member and directed toward the foot; attaching a second attachment member in engagement with a shoe placed over the wearer's foot such that the second attachment has a second attachment member flexibly extending therefrom and directed toward the lower leg of the wearer. The first and second connecting members are coupled such that the flexible connecting member extends at an acute angle from the lower leg of the wearer at a point above the joint of a leg and foot to a point forward of the leg at the instep of the foot. |
| US08353806B2 |
Independent electric power type speed race apparatus
An independent electric power type speed race apparatus is disclosed. The independent electric power type speed race apparatus comprises a first health cycle comprising a first pedal, a first cycle rotary body rotating by handling of the first pedal, and a first cycle load driving part working as a load checking the rotation of the first cycle rotary body; a first cycle speed sensor sensing a rotation speed of the first cycle rotary body; a second health cycle comprising a second pedal, a second cycle rotary body rotating by handling of the second pedal, and a second cycle load driving part working as a load checking the rotation of the second cycle rotary body; a second cycle speed sensor sensing a rotation speed of the second cycle rotary body; a display plate installed at the front of the first health cycle and the second health cycle. |
| US08353804B2 |
Hybrid transmission and method of use
A hybrid transmission for a vehicle and its method of use are described. The transmission may have an internal combustion engine and an electric device. A torque converter is connected between the internal combustion engine and a set of direction clutches. The direction clutches are also connected to an intermediate gear set. The electric device is also connected to the intermediate gear set for providing rotational energy to the intermediate gear set or absorbing energy from the intermediate gear set. The electric device is connected to at least one super capacitor. |
| US08353798B2 |
Gear transmission
A gear transmission comprises an internal gear member, a carrier, an external gear and a first shaft. An internal gear is formed on an inner circumference of the internal gear member. The carrier is positioned coaxially with an axis of the internal gear and is rotatably supported on the internal gear member. The external gear meshes with the internal gear and is supported on the carrier in an eccentrically rotatable manner. The first shaft extends through the carrier along the axis of the internal gear, is rotatably supported on the carrier and transmits torque inputted at one end to the other end thereof. |
| US08353796B2 |
Sprocket with alternating pitch spacing
The present invention relates to a sprocket (1) with a circular gear ring (3) comprising a plurality of alternating teeth (4) and tooth spaces (5) with different pitch spacings (T) distributed around the periphery of the gear ring (3), a plurality of successive pitch spacings (T) increasing continuously over a first region of the gear ring (3), and a plurality of successive pitch spacings (T) decreasing continuously in a subsequent region. The invention additionally relates to a chain drive (20), in particular a timing chain drive, comprising a driving chain (14) and at least one sprocket (1) of the type in question. |
| US08353793B2 |
Carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene latex seamless bladder and a process for manufacturing thereof
A soft seamless acrylonitrile bladder having excellent air permeability combined with good bounce characteristics for inflatable balls obtained by latex dipping process. The said process involves dipping hot molds in a coagulant bath of calcium nitrate and water and later dipping the dried, coagulant coated formers in a compounded latex bath of carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene latex, the dip being single or multiple depending upon the desired wall thickness. The said latex dipping process allows low manufacturing cost, high productivity and low rejection rate bladders having uniform weight varying from 500 mg/inch.sup.2 to 1.5 g/inch.sup.2, modulus varying from 17 to 20 Kg/Cm.sup.2, tensile strength of 150-180 Kg/Cm2 and elongation at break 650-750%. |
| US08353792B2 |
Teardrop ring tossing game
The present invention is a ring for a game of skill, generally comprising a single strip having first and second ends, wherein said first and second ends are attached to one another to form a single endless ring having a corner on one side of said ring and a teardrop-shaped opposing side opposite said corner. In some embodiments the ring is a single continuous piece. Alternative embodiments of the present invention call for the game piece to be flexible, and for utilizing attachment mechanisms and curvature retention mechanisms to further adjust and retain the curvature of the ring, all for the purpose of affecting the trajectory of the ring when thrown. |
| US08353790B1 |
Golf ball and golf tee placement and retrieval device
A golf ball and golf tee retrieval device for eliminating the need to squat or bend. A shaft has two ends: One for ball retrieval and the other for ball and tee setting. The ball retrieval end includes a cup that is sized and adapted to retrieve or pick-up a ball. The setting end includes a housing unit, a wing portion and a boss connector. The boss connector engages the shaft. The housing unit includes six walls adapted to substantially house a golf ball and golf tee. The wing portion is adapted to provide a pivot point to assist in tee placement and easy disengagement from the golf tee and the golf ball. |
| US08353789B2 |
Golf ball with rotational protrusions within a dimple
A golf ball includes an outer land surface and a plurality of dimples formed thereon. The dimples comprise protrusions on the inner surface of the dimple to energize or agitate the airflow over the dimpled surfaces to increase the aerodynamic performance of the golf ball. These protrusions include rotational elements arranged in various configurations and are fully contained within the dimple perimeter and do not extend beyond a chordal plane of the dimple. By improving the aerodynamic of the airflow over the dimpled surface of the golf ball, the outer land surface of the golf ball may remain robust to prevent premature wear and tear on the golf ball. |
| US08353788B2 |
Golf balls containing interpenetrating polymer networks
The present invention is directed to a golf ball that contains an interpenetrating polymer network, or IPN, including at least two polymeric components. These IPNs may be present in any golf ball layer, although in an intermediate or cover layer in one preferred embodiment. The present invention is also directed to methods of forming a golf ball containing an IPN in one or more of the layers. |
| US08353784B2 |
Golf club with a support bracket
A cavity back golf club and golf club head having one or more support brackets is disclosed. Each support bracket includes a first portion engaged with the rear surface of the striking face, a second portion engaged with the perimeter weighting member, and a third portion that is curved. The one or more of the support brackets are engaged with a rear surface of a striking face and a perimeter weight member of the golf club head. The one or more support brackets are at least partially located in a rear cavity of the golf club head. The support brackets provide structural integrity to a thin striking face on the golf club head. Additionally, a discretionary weight is engaged with the at least one of the support brackets at the toe portion of the golf club head. |
| US08353782B1 |
Golf club head
A golf club head is described, in one embodiment, including a body with an exterior surface defining a first body volume of at least about 400 cm3. The body has a bottom portion, a top portion, a front portion, and a back portion. A face positioned at the front portion of the body and is configured to receive an impact. A top portion silhouette profile located along a perimeter of the top portion is further described. The top portion silhouette profile defines the outer bounds of the top portion in an X-direction and Y-direction. At least one indentation is located on the bottom portion below the crown silhouette profile. The removal of the at least one indentation from the bottom portion creates a second body volume that is at least 12 cm3 larger than the first body volume. |
| US08353780B2 |
Putter heads and putters having adjustable, multi-sided ball striking face insert
Golf clubs and golf club heads, such as putter heads, may include a putter body and an adjustable ball striking face insert forming at least a portion of the ball striking face and contained within the putter body. The insert may have a plurality of sides, each of the sides having different performance characteristics to permit customization of the putter. In some examples, the adjustable ball striking face insert may be rotatably mounted within the putter head. Additionally or alternatively, the insert may be removably mounted within the putter head. In some arrangements, the insert may be finely adjustable to alter the loft angle of the putter head. |
| US08353777B2 |
Constant velocity joint having over-articulation protection
A tripot universal joint includes a first rotatable shaft member having a longitudinal axis and three longitudinal guide channels, each having two opposing concave side surfaces and a back surface. The joint also includes a rotatable second shaft member having a longitudinal axis and comprising a spider having three radially extending trunnions equally, each of the trunnions having a convex outer surface disposed within an associated longitudinal guide channel. The joint further includes three rotatable ball assemblies, each disposed on a convex outer surface of a trunnion, each ball assembly having an outer ball with a convex outer surface that is disposed within the concave side surfaces of the longitudinal guide channel with which it is associated for moveable engagement within the channel and an inner ball with an inner surface that is rotatably disposed on the convex surface of the trunnion with a detachably reattachable coupling. |
| US08353774B2 |
Sharing resources in wagering game systems
Techniques for sharing resources in wagering game systems are described herein. In some embodiments, a method includes determining that remote resources are needed for processing video content associated with a wagering game, and locating the remote resources by wirelessly communicating with one or more wagering game machines in the wagering game network, wherein the wireless communications include queries about whether the wagering game machines can provide the needed processing resources. The method can also include receiving processed video content via wireless communications with certain of the one or more wagering game machines, and presenting the wagering game using the processed video content. |
| US08353773B2 |
Communication game system, game apparatus, server, storage medium storing a program, and game control method
A communication game system includes a plurality of game apparatuses which are able to wirelessly communicate with each other. Each game apparatus registers identifying information of an opponent obtained by a short-distance wireless communication or by user's manual input in a friend list. Thereafter, the game apparatus connects to the Internet, and inquiries whether it is possible to communicate with an opponent in the friend list over the network. If it is possible to communicate, the game apparatus obtains an address of the opponent to make a network communication. Even if a user makes a short distance wireless communication with a friend to exchange and register the identifying information or registers the friend by hand and then is parted from the friend, the user can safely communicate with the friend across the network without being exposed to unknown players. In a case that an additional opponent is to be added to the multiplayer game session, one of the participants transmits identifying information to introduce the communicating opponents to each other. The game apparatuses introduced to each other make a communication over the network, and add the identifying information of the opponents to the friend list, if necessary. |
| US08353772B2 |
System and method for conducting a fantasy sports competition
The present invention embodiments pertain to conducting fantasy sports or other competitions, where users select or draft an entirely new team of professional players each week (or at other suitable time interval). The competition types (including playoffs) include fee based and free. Each fee based competition has a pre-determined entry fee, and prizes are awarded to the winner of that competition each week. The free competitions similarly include weekly prizes and further provide for a grand prize. Within each of the free and fee based types of competitions, users may compete in a “private” competition or a randomly composed “open” competition. Users within the free and fee based competitions may accumulate points that qualify for redemption to obtain prizes. These points are accumulated based upon the statistical performance of the drafted players for each team. The present invention embodiments further provide mechanisms for information sharing and interaction between users. |
| US08353770B2 |
Mobile social fitness networked game
A mobile fitness device and method of use are presented. The mobile fitness device includes a controller having a processor and a non-transitory computer readable medium in communication with the processor, wherein the non-transitory computer readable medium has instructions encoded thereon to record performance data that is based upon a performance of a physical activity by a user of the mobile fitness device and to transmit a communication, including the performance data, to a social network or to others for fitness, socialization, and potential game playing. |
| US08353769B2 |
Game apparatus and game program
The game apparatus obtains angular velocity data and acceleration data from an input device equipped with at least an angular velocity sensor and an acceleration sensor, and determines whether or not a ball has been thrown in accordance with the angular velocity data. When it is determined that ball-throwing is fulfilled, the game apparatus calculates the intensity of swinging the input device and a curve amount. The game apparatus applies a force and a curve to a ball in accordance with the calculated intensity of swinging and the curve amount, and performs a process of causing the ball to move and curve in a predetermined direction. |
| US08353768B2 |
Card game apparatus and method with dealt card disclosure feature
A method of managing a card game, a computer implementation thereof, and a card game kit are disclosed. In the method, a plurality of cards are dealt in one or more rounds to a plurality of players, each player receiving one or more cards in each round, with each card bearing a designated value and suit. The values and suits of the cards dealt are recorded in each round. Those values and suits are then revealed to the players during one or more of the rounds to enable the players to wager or withdraw from the game. |
| US08353766B2 |
Gaming machine
During a slot machine game, game effects are also displayed on a liquid crystal panel 39d provided in a reel display window unit 39, and thus the liquid crystal panel 39d serves as a new machine component for performing game effects. Therefore, new effects for the game can be performed on the liquid crystal panel 39d, which facilitates maintaining the novelty of game effects. Furthermore, the diffusion sheet 39f and the light guiding plate 39g are formed with openings 5a, 6a and 7a and openings 5b, 6b and 7b respectively for allowing the symbols variably displayed on the reels to be observed. As a result, there are decreased obstacles, interposed, in such a way as to prevent the light from passing through, between the transparent acryl plate 39a and the reels 2-4 on which the light is variably displayed. Therefore, the visibility of the symbols variably displayed on the reels 2-4 is increased. |
| US08353761B2 |
Progressive game and processing system thereof
A progressive game is implemented on a gaming system, wherein the gaming system includes one or more gaming machines connected to a game server, and wherein the progressive game has a progressive prize value that increases according to a progressive prize growth rate. The progressive game includes a selectable targeted progressive prize value, a selectable targeted progressive prize time, and one or more enticement factors. The progressive prize growth rate is calculated using the selectable targeted progressive prize value, the selectable targeted progressive prize time, and the one or more enticement factors. Additionally, a random number generation algorithm tests to determine if there is a progressive prize win at each predetermined time period. The selectable targeted progressive prize time is used to calculate the predetermined time period for testing for a progressive prize win. If a progressive prize win has not been identified, the progressive prize value is incremented by the progressive prize growth rate. If a progressive prize win has been identified, a random number generation algorithm determines one or more winners of the progressive prize. |
| US08353759B2 |
Shape control of magentic fields for table games
A gaming table with an upper surface that includes a gaming chip placement area and a lower surface opposite the upper surface is provided. The gaming table also includes a housing coupled to one of the upper surface and the lower surface of the gaming table, an antenna coupled to the housing, wherein the antenna is configured to form an electromagnetic field that defines a zone of communication in which a gaming chip including a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag can be read. The gaming table also includes a substantially-contiguous highly permeable magnetic material layer coupled to the antenna, the highly permeable magnetic material layer defining an outermost boundary of the zone of communication of the antenna, such that a strength of the electromagnetic field at any region beyond the defined boundary of the zone of communication is below a threshold level for communication with an RFID gaming chip, and a reading device coupled to the housing, wherein the RFID reading device is configured to read data transmitted by an RFID gaming chip when the RFID gaming chip is in the zone of communication. |
| US08353755B2 |
Wagering game with game-play enhancements having known expected values
A gaming system and method for conducting a wagering game includes a powerup feature. A wager input receives a wager from a player to play a single play of a wagering game. At least one display displays a plurality of reels with symbols. A controller is coupled to the wager input and the at least one display. The controller is operative randomly generate an outcome of the wagering game from a plurality of wagering game outcomes. The controller displays the randomly generated wagering game outcome on the plurality of reels. The plurality of outcomes includes the award of a powerup to a player. The powerup allows the player to activate a game enhancement feature on a future play of the wagering game. The plurality of wagering game outcomes can also include a credit award. A player may select the credit award or an offered powerup. |
| US08353750B2 |
Response game systems and method
Novel response games provide participants with opportunities to receive response points and subsequent prizes, awards, fortune, and fame. Correct responses are generally determined by a television producer's and sponsor's targeted viewers (e.g. a designated response game point controller). Players receiving a highest response point total for a plurality of response sessions are identified as highly in-sync with a response point controller and qualify to be selected to star on television as viewer/controller representatives. Viewer/controller representatives are presented with various producer's and sponsor's business element options associated with a future television promotion, production, and program provided. The representatives are shown evaluating each business element and selecting a number of most suitable elements to become future response game elements. The producer's and sponsor's elements selected by the viewer/controller representatives are determined by the representatives to be the most suitable elements for viewers to respond to during a future response game. |
| US08353748B2 |
Game device, method of controlling game device, and information recording medium
Provided is a game device capable of allowing a user to designate a position within a region of a game space which is not being displayed on a game screen. If it is judged that a screen coordinate value according to a user's operation is within the game screen showing a state of a first region within the game space, a position-in-first-region acquisition unit (83a) acquires a position within the first region corresponding to the screen coordinate value. If it is judged that the screen coordinate value is not within the game screen, a second display control unit (86b) causes an image showing a state of a second region within the game space to be displayed on a part of the game screen based on a positional relationship between the screen coordinate value and the game screen for at least a predetermined time. If it is judged that the screen coordinate value is within a region in which the image showing the state of the second region is displayed, a position-in-second-region acquisition unit (83b) acquires a position within the second region corresponding to the screen coordinate value in place of the position-in-first-region acquisition unit (83a). |
| US08353746B2 |
Air conducting device
An air conducting device is used for removing heat from at least one component by directing airflow flowing along a first direction. The first direction is parallel to the at least one component. The air conducting device includes an airduct receiving the at least one component therein, and an air guiding member. The air guiding member is attached to an inner side of the airduct. The air guiding member includes a plurality of resilient legs. The legs extend diagonally relative to the first direction in a first state. The legs are able to accommodate the at least one component in a second state. Each leg in the first state is able to serve as a barrier to the airflow. |
| US08353744B2 |
Method and device for processing a carcass part of slaughtered poultry
A method for processing a carcass part of slaughtered poultry including making two incisions on the back side of the carcass part, and detaching at least a part of the back meat that is naturally present on the carcass part using a scraper, the scraper having a cutting edge with a curved shape in a plane that substantially extends perpendicular to the direction of the spine, the curved shape substantially matching the side of the back of the contour of the bone parts of the carcass part from which the back meat must be detached, as seen in the direction of the spine, wherein detachment of the back meat by the scraper starts from the incisions along the spine, and the carcass part and the scraper move relative to each other while the meat is being detached. |
| US08353743B1 |
Stuffer horn with spray
An embodiment of the invention includes a stuffer horn with spray system for elimination or reduction of pathogen contamination. One embodiment of the invention combines a stuffer horn with spray nozzles for the application of a safety intervention solution while the product is being placed into a bag. The stuffer comprises a horn with pivoting top jaw and fixed bottom jaw that funnels product into a bag that is placed over its nose and a cylinder that forces the product through the horn and into the bag. One implementation can include a cylindrical horn having a flexible overlapping side wall adapted to increase or decrease the inner diameter. |
| US08353725B2 |
Contact and connection unit provided with the contact
A contact which makes it possible to make a connection unit compact in size. A pair of supporting portions opposed to each other in a predetermined direction are provided on opposite side edges of a plate-shaped base portion with which an associated one of electrodes of a photovoltaic unit is brought into contact, such that the supporting portions rise from the opposite side edges, respectively. The pair of supporting portions are each formed with a slit for supporting a terminal portion of a diode. |
| US08353724B2 |
Cable connector assembly having means for limiting cables thereof from swinging
A cable connector assembly includes an insulative housing, a connector section retained in the insulative housing, a cable electrically connecting with a rear side of the connector section, and a cover fastened at a rear end of the insulative housing. The insulative housing defines a cavity opening outwardly along a first direction. The connector section is received in the cavity. The cable extends out of the insulative housing. The cover holds the cable to make the cable bend along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and preventing the bent cable from swinging. |
| US08353717B2 |
Electrical connector with external grooves and ridges
An electrical connector including a tube having a conductor receiving channel which is substantially closed except at one or more ends of the channel. The tube includes an exterior surface having longitudinal grooves and ridges along a longitudinal length the tube. |
| US08353716B2 |
Terminal structures for wiring devices
Terminal structures for wiring devices, such as receptacle assemblies, are disclosed having first and second spring assemblies constructed of a first metal and each having at least one spring finger with the first and second spring assemblies being connected to respective first and second conductive contacts that are constructed of a second metal, wherein the terminal structures are configured for push-in termination of conductive stripped ends of respective first and second wires between the at least one spring finger of the respective first and second spring assemblies and the respective first and second conductive contacts, and wherein the first and second conductive contacts are configured to be connected to respective first and second separate conductive elements. Such a terminal structure is shown for example within a receptacle assembly in the form of a grounding duplex plug outlet. |
| US08353714B2 |
High density coaxial jack
A coaxial switching jack with a pair of coaxial assemblies mounted within a housing having a pair of front cable connection locations is disclosed. The coaxial assemblies each include a center conductor and an outer shield conductor. The center conductors are connected by a first spring and the shell conductors are connected by a second spring. Insertion of a coaxial cable connector within one of the front cable connection locations deflects the springs from the corresponding coaxial assembly and disconnects the center and shell conductors of the two assemblies. The jack may also be configured to provide an electrical connection between the center and shell conductors of the second coaxial assembly if a coaxial cable connector is inserted within the first coaxial assembly. The connection between the center and shell conductors of the second coaxial assembly may be through a resistor assembly allowing for selection of a desired electrical impedance. |
| US08353713B2 |
Controlled discharge connector lead
When a hobby enthusiast has recharged the battery for a remote controlled vehicle, such as a scale facsimile automobile, boat, helicopter or airplane, the battery must be connected again to the vehicle drive system, to provide power. This operation is typically performed by connecting each lead of an electronic speed controller to each corresponding lead of the battery, through a removable barrel receptacle lead and a mating barrel plug lead respectively, attached to each corresponding lead. An improved connector lead is described herein that protects components that may be attached to either lead in a connection. The charge dissipates in a resistive member that is physically coupled to a conductive member to form at least in part a first lead. When an improved lead is connected to a mating lead, the connection initially provides a charge dissipation path through the resistive member, but subsequently provides a bypass, current carrying conductive path around the resistive member from one component to another. By making use of an improved connector, electrical components are protected, not only from hot-swap current, but also from electrostatic discharge in general. |
| US08353711B2 |
Electrical connector with improved metallic shutter mechanism
An electrical connector includes a metal shell, an insulative housing, a plurality of terminals retained in the insulative housing and a shutter. The metal shell defines a receiving space with a mating port. The insulative housing defines a mating portion extending forwardly and received in the receiving space. The mating portion defines two rows of passageways exposed on opposite surfaces thereof. The terminals include contact portions retained in the corresponding passageways of the mating portion. The shutter is located in the mating port of metal shell. The shutter is made of metal sheet and pivotally mounted to the shell. The shutter includes a main portion and a pair of shafts extending outwardly form two sides of one end of the main portion. |
| US08353710B2 |
Low-voltage contactor
A low-voltage contactor with an actuating unit, a stationary contact, and a contact carrier operated by the actuating unit and including a movable contact, a spring with a first end and a second end acting on the movable contact to produce a force that reduces the electrical resistance between the contacts, and a connecting means for connecting the contact carrier to the actuating unit. The contact carrier includes a framework part including the connecting means, a holder part including a holding member adapted to receive and hold the movable contact and the spring. The holder part and the framework part are detachably connected to each other and designed so that the first end of the spring is acting on the movable contact held by the holder part and the second end is acting on the framework part when the framework part and the holder part are connected to each other. |
| US08353709B2 |
Retractable memory drive
A retractable memory drive in accordance with the present invention comprises a top casing, a middle carrier, an electronic device such as a USB thumb drive, and a bottom casing. There are guide rails that allow the middle carrier to remain in an appropriate position. There is also a metal spring clip coupled to the middle carrier for contacting a connector of a device coupled to the drive to provide for improved EMI and ESD protection. |
| US08353708B2 |
Independent loading mechanism facilitating interconnections for both CPU and flexible printed cable
An electrical connector assembly comprises a central processing unit (CPU), a plurality of cable connectors soldered on the CPU and a CPU socket for electrical connecting the CPU to a printed circuit board (PCB). Each cable connector includes a base having a plurality of first terminals received therein, for contacting with conductive points of the cable. The CPU socket includes an insulating housing having a plurality of second terminals received therein and a loading mechanism attached to the insulating housing. The loading mechanism can simultaneously pressing the cables against the cable connectors and the CPU toward the CPU socket for electrically connecting the CPU with the cables and the PCB. |
| US08353700B2 |
Dental device and method of use
A prophy device incorporating a shaft and one or more corrugated members eliminates the need for plastic gears. The corrugated members effectively transfer rotational energy from a shaft to an applicator. In another version, a flexible paste chamber contains polish within a housing of the device. A difference between a rotational speed at a front of the paste chamber and rear of the chamber causes the flexible chamber to contract on itself thereby automatically forcing polish from the chamber and into a polish applicator. A rod extending through a paste chamber includes openings for contents to exit. The rod has one end in contact with a drive disk and a second end in contact with a front disk such that the ends of the rod are maintained substantially in place by the drive disk and front disk, respectively, but remain rotatably independent relative to the drive disk and front disk. |
| US08353696B2 |
Semi-rigid tool having sections that vary from one another in rigidity
The present invention relates to a manufacturing tool (13, 14) and method for use in forming polymer matrix composite products such as carbon fiber composite products. The tool comprising a first and a second portion defining a cavity (15) therebetween in which the product is built before curing. The rigidity of the second portion (13) of the tool is selected based on the required deflection of the second portion of the tool under the curing conditions, in order to maintain pressure on the laminate during the entire cure. The second upper portion (13) is shown haring varying thicknesses (16A, 16B and 16C) which results in different rigidity of these regions. |
| US08353694B1 |
Thermoplastic pultrusion die system and method
A thermoplastic pultrusion die system for pultruding a thermoplastic composite includes a first pultrusion die member; a second pultrusion die member; a die cavity gap formed between the first pultrusion die member and the second pultrusion die member; and a die cavity gap adjustment mechanism that imparts movement to at least one of the first pultrusion die member and the second pultrusion die member to vary the die cavity gap within a very tight die cavity gap tolerance. |
| US08353687B2 |
Rotary pump with a fixed shaft
A rotary pump (1), which can be operated by an electronically commutated DC motor (56) with an axial gap, with a dry space (54), in which a wound stator (55) is accommodated, and a fluid-fillable pump space (13), in which a permanent magnetic pump impeller (5) is accommodated to rotate, the pump impeller (5) being separated by a split plate (18) from stator (55), which is connected to a return ring (27), to which several poles (15) are connected, and a circuit board (17), and is in heat-conducting contact with it, and includes a heat conducting element (10) from a good heat conducting light metal. The heat conducting element (10) consists essentially of a disk (40) aligned at right angles to the motor shaft or an annular disk with a coaxial tube (39) extending in the direction of the pump impeller in one piece with it, open or closed toward the motor shaft, and that the circuit board (17) is connected to the heat-conducting element (15) on the side facing away from the pump impeller (5). |
| US08353683B2 |
Micropump, pump module, and drive module
A micropump of peristaltic drive system of pressing a tube having elasticity to transport a fluid is disclosed. The micropump includes: a pump module including the tube, a cam that presses the tube, and a cam shaft on which the cam is pivotally mounted; a drive module including a drive force transmission mechanism that transmits a drive force from a motor to the cam shaft; a coupling member that detachably couples the pump module and the drive module; and a linkage mechanism provided between the motor and the cam shaft to link the drive force. |
| US08353682B2 |
Microfluidic-device systems and methods for manufacturing microfluidic-device systems
A microfluidic device is described. The microfluidic device comprises at least one transport channel and at least one working chamber, wherein the at least one transport channel and the at least one working chamber are separated from each other by a common deformable wall. The at least one transport channel is for containing a transport fluid and the at least one working chamber is for containing a working fluid. The microfluidic device comprises at least one pair of electrodes for changing the pressure on the working fluid such that when the pressure on the working fluid is changed, the deformable wall deforms, resulting in a change of the cross-section of the at least one transport channel. The working chamber comprises a flexible wall different from the common deformable wall and at least one electrode of the at least one pair of electrodes is provided on the flexible wall. |
| US08353680B2 |
Air conditioning compressor
A stroke-adjustable air conditioning compressor, in particular for motor vehicles, including a drive mechanism for pistons that move back and forth, the pistons being driven by an adjusting plate, such as a pivoting plate, pivoting ring or swash plate at an adjustable pivoting angle. The position of the pivoting angle is influenced inter alia by compressive forces, inertial forces and elastic forces that are active in the drive mechanism. |
| US08353678B2 |
Controller for a motor and a method of controlling the motor
A method of controlling a motor operating a pumping apparatus of a fluid-pumping application. The pumping apparatus includes a pump having an inlet to receive a fluid and an outlet to exhaust the fluid, and the motor coupled to the pump to operate the pump. The method includes the acts of controlling the motor to operate the pump and monitoring the operation of the pump. The monitoring act includes monitoring a power of the motor, and determining whether the monitored power indicates an undesired flow of fluid through the pump. The method further includes the act of controlling the motor to cease operation of the pump when the determination indicates an undesired flow of fluid through the pump and zero or more other conditions exist. |
| US08353672B2 |
Turbine blade damper arrangement
A turbine blade damper arrangement in which a damper is positioned against the undersides of the platforms of adjacent turbine blades. In operation, the damper is centrifugally urged into engagement with the blade platforms to provide damping of relative movement between the blades. The damper and platform surfaces that it engages are of part-cylindrical configuration in order to minimize gas leakage paths between the damper and blade platforms. |
| US08353669B2 |
Turbine vane platform leading edge cooling holes
A vane for use in a gas turbine engine has a platform connected to an airfoil. There is a cooling passage for supplying cooling air to the platform. A cooling chamber supplies cooling air to a plurality of cooling slots at the platform. The cooling slots have a non-uniform cross section. |
| US08353667B2 |
Method and apparatus for adjusting a yaw angle of a wind turbine
A method and an apparatus for adjusting a yaw angle of a wind turbine comprising a rotor having a plurality of rotor blades and a hub are provided. The method is adapted for adjusting the yaw angle from an actual yaw angle to a desired yaw angle and comprises the steps of measuring a wind direction at the location of the wind turbine, measuring the yaw angle of the wind turbine and/or determining a wind direction relative to the nacelle orientation, calculating a pitch angle of at least one rotor blade as a function of the measured wind direction and the measured yaw angle and/or the wind direction relative to the nacelle orientation, and adjusting the pitch angle of the rotor blades according to the calculated pitch angle such that a yaw momentum is generated for changing the yaw angle from the actual yaw angle to the desired yaw angle. |
| US08353666B2 |
Turbocharger assembly having heat shield-centering arrangements
A turbocharger for internal combustion engines, having a heat shield disposed between a turbine housing and center housing of the turbocharger for shielding the center housing from exhaust gases passing through the turbine. The heat shield in one embodiment is centered on a generally conical surface of the center housing, by engagement between the conical surface and a centering portion of the heat shield. In another embodiment, the heat shield has a generally conical portion that is non-axisymmetric, having a plurality of radially enlarged lobes that engage a radially inwardly facing surface of the turbine housing for centering the heat shield. |
| US08353661B2 |
Vehicle mounted lift
An apparatus for transporting small vehicles within the bed of a truck which comprises a frame sized to be locatable within the bed of a truck, a platform slidably supported by the frame movable between a first position parallel to and proximate to the bed of the truck and a second position parallel to and vertically spaced above the first position and an actuator operable to move the platform between the first and second positions. The actuator may comprises a winch and the apparatus may include at least one catch for selectively engaging and supporting the platform at the second position. |
| US08353660B2 |
Charging device for distributing bulk material
A charging device (1 10; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610, 710) for distributing bulk material in an enclosure, in particular in a shaft furnace comprises a stationary housing (12) that supports a rotatable structure (14) carrying adjustable distribution means (16). Distribution of bulk material in circumferential direction is achieved by rotation of the distribution means (16) together with the rotatable structure (14). Distribution of bulk material in radial direction is achieved by adjustment of the distribution means (16). For rotating the distribution means, usually about the central axis (A) of the charging device, the device (1 10; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610, 710) includes a first rolling bearing (122) with a first stationary race (124; 324) that bears a first rotary race (128). The first rotary race is coupled to a first gear ring (130; 430; 530; 730) that cooperates with a first drive (50) for rotating the rotatable structure and thereby the distribution means. For adjusting the distribution means, the device includes a second rolling bearing (132) having a second stationary race (134; 334) that bears a second rotary race (138). The second rotary race is coupled to a second gear ring (140) that cooperates with a second drive (60) for adjusting the distribution means. According to the invention, the first rotary race (128) is arranged radially inward with respect to the second rotary race (138), the first stationary race (124; 324) is arranged radially inward with respect to the second stationary race (134; 334) and the second rolling bearing (132) axially overlaps the first rolling bearing (122). |
| US08353650B2 |
Bonding washer
A bonding washer for making electrical connection between two metal pieces that are to be mechanically fastened together. The washer, to be interposed between the two metal pieces, is constructed so as to fasten to one of the pieces before the two pieces are joined. Teeth on the washer, positioned at right angles to the plane of the washer, are forced into each of the two metal pieces when the fastener is tightened, making electrical connection between the two metal pieces. |
| US08353637B2 |
Toggling cosmetic substance dispenser
Disclosed is an improved toggling dispenser for dispensing substances. |
| US08353635B2 |
Blade drive device
A blade drive device includes: a board that has an opening; a blade that opens and closes the opening; and a drive source that drives the blade. The drive source includes a rotor rotatably supported and a stator for applying a rotational force to the rotor. The stator, around which a coil for excitation is wound, has a fitting hole fitted with a projective portion formed on the board and has a rectangular shape. |
| US08353632B2 |
Fluid dynamic bearing system
The fluid dynamic bearing system has at least one stationary part, and at least one rotating part that is supported rotatable about a rotational axis with respect to the stationary part. A bearing gap filled with bearing fluid is formed between mutually opposing surfaces of the stationary and of the rotating part. The bearing system includes at least one fluid dynamic radial bearing and at least one fluid dynamic axial bearing that are disposed along sections of the bearing gap. In one aspect of the invention, an annular sealing gap for sealing open ends of the bearing gap has one end connected to the bearing gap and one end connected to an annular reservoir, the outside radius of the reservoir measured from the rotational axis being larger than the outside radius of the sealing gap. |
| US08353631B2 |
Journal-foil air bearing
A journal foil air bearing 5000 according to the present invention is provided with one top foil 300 along an inner periphery of a hole 18 of a bearing housing 10. Bump foils 20c and 20d are installed at the inner periphery of the hole 18 of the bearing housing 10 where they are distanced from each other. Both ends of the top foil 300 form bent portions 308a and 308b and the bent portions 308a and 308b are mounted in a slot 414 of a slot body 40 mounted in a slot 140 provided in the inner periphery of the hole 18 in the bearing housing 10 and the top foil 300 is elastically movable therein. |
| US08353628B1 |
Method and system for tomographic projection correction
The position of the sample is measured and used to correct for any off-axis motion during tomography using x-ray projection microscope system with a rotation stage system. The position is sensed using a precision-machined, low-CTE gold-coated cylinder or disc and three to five capacitive distance sensors. The correction can then be performed purely as image processing in software, by applying an appropriate shift in X and Y of the captured x-ray projections. A calibration is often necessary for each system (gold disc plus sensors plus sample stage) to account for any machining errors of the gold disc or positioning errors of the capacitive sensors. This calibration should also be repeated whenever any maintenance is performed on the metrology setup. |
| US08353627B2 |
Temperature sensor for burner, and burner
A temperature sensor for a burner comprises two metal wires implementing a thermocouple, a protection sheath receiving the two metal wires, and a head in metal material having a front side intended to be facing the environment, the temperature of which is intended to be measured, and a rear side opposite the front side, in which the two metal wires are connected in a thermal exchange relationship to the head rear side, and the head comprises a front portion connectable to a burner wall of the burner so that the thermocouple is connectable to the burner by means of said metal head. |
| US08353626B2 |
Emissivity independent non-contact high temperature measurement system and method
An apparatus for determining a temperature of an object without contacting the object. An etalon filter may be used to receive spectral radiation of the object over a plurality of wavelengths and to generate a spectral output signal. A linear array detector may be used that is responsive to the spectral output signal from the etalon filter and adapted to generate an output indicative of the spectral radiation at each of one of the plurality of wavelengths. An actuator may be used that controls movement of one element of the etalon filter to assist in generating the output. A processor may be used which is responsive to the output of the linear array detector and which analyzes a known characteristic of a black body at a plurality of test temperatures, against the output of the linear array detector, to determine a specific temperature of the object. |
| US08353625B1 |
Heat detector tester
This invention relates to a device for testing a heat detector. The device has a housing that is shaped to surround a heat detector and includes a heating element. A fan is located near the heating element and is adapted to activate the heat detector by increasing the temperature around the heat detector. The housing also includes a temperature device that measures the temperature near the heat detector. Furthermore, a display is attached to the housing to show the temperature around the heat detector during testing. |
| US08353622B2 |
Cartridge from which bone cement is discharged, the cartridge having a removably coupled nozzle
A cartridge in which bone cement is mixed and from which the cement is discharged. A blade with plural vanes is disposed in the cartridge for mixing the cement. A piston located in one end of the cartridge is actuated to push the mixed cement out of the cartridge. The blade has plural vanes, one for scraping cement off the side of the cartridge, one for scraping cement off the piston and one for scraping cement off the end of the cartridge opposite the end in which the piston is normally located. The blade is collapsible so that when the piston is actuated the blade compresses to allow the cement in the cartridge to be pushed out. |
| US08353620B2 |
Hand-held stick blender comprising housing shells that are connected by a tensioned cover
A hand-held kitchen appliance, in particular a stick blender, comprising a housing with at least one first housing shell, a second housing shell and a fixing element for connecting the two housing shells. According to the invention, the fixing element comprises a tensioning element, which engages with the first housing shell at least at two separate fixing points, pressing the first housing shell against the second housing shell at said two points. The kitchen appliance and the method for producing the same are characterized by a particularly simple construction and produce an excellent seal for the housing despite the use of a reduced number of screw connections. |
| US08353618B1 |
External vibratory grout consolidator for vertically reinforced concrete masonry
A vibratory grout consolidator for eliminating gaps and voids in grout by attaching to reinforcing bars extending within masonry block walls and encapsulated within the grout. The device includes a clamp including a bar sleeve having a first part attached to a first arm and a second part attached to a second arm. The bar sleeve has a pair of open ends that allow a reinforcing bar to extending fully through the bar sleeve. A vibration source is attached to the clamp so that when the bar sleeve is engaged with the reinforcing bar, vibration is transmitted to the reinforcing bar and encapsulating grout. |
| US08353617B2 |
Backlight
A backlight is provided for illuminating an at least partially transmissive display. The backlight includes a light source. A light guide receives the light from an edge surface and guides the light by total internal reflection. The light extracted from the lightguide has an angular emission profile such that when incident on a prism film, collimated light is produced. |
| US08353606B2 |
Streetlight
A streetlight installed on a street or a sidewalk in order to radiate light includes a base plate detachably fixed to a streetlight body using a clamp and a reflector fixed to one side of the base plate. The reflector has a first slope having a plurality of LEDs mounted thereon, and a second slope having a reflective film mounted thereon, the reflective film arranged opposite the LEDs. The reflector provides illumination by reflecting light, emitted from the LEDs, to the outside. A heat dissipation pad is disposed between the base plate and the reflector. The heat dissipation pad insulates the LEDs from external high-voltage EMS. A cover made of a translucent material has a recess in the central portion thereof to house the reflector therein, and fixes both the reflector and the heat dissipation pad to the base plate. Heat dissipation fins are fixed to the base plate. |
| US08353603B2 |
Pet item storage unit
A pet item storage unit including a body having first and second portions. The first portion includes a first storage compartment having a lid adapted to secure items inside the first storage compartment. The second portion includes a second storage compartment adapted to hold a plurality of disposable bags and includes an open slot for removal of at least one of the bags. An aperture extends completely through the pet item storage unit between the first and second portions and is adapted to receive a dog leash. A light source is disposed between the first and second portions. |
| US08353602B2 |
Compartment
The present invention relates to a compartment provided a tufted textile (100) comprising: a backing (10), and yarns (40) forming tufts extending from a first side of the backing, the compartment further comprising a light source (50; 80) and a conductor arrangement (60) for the light source, wherein the light source, the conductor arrangement and the backing are arranged so as to radiate light from the light source at least partly through the backing, the backing being substantially permeable to light. The tufted textile (100) may be a carpet. |
| US08353597B2 |
Device and system which control a projector based on a digital multiplex protocol
A device and system which control a projector based on the DMX protocol includes a DMX signal receiving and processing circuit, an MCU microprocessor circuit, a DSP image processing circuit, a projection module device circuit, a DMX signal input port, a storage equipment port, an analogue video input port and a digital video input port. The DMX signal receiving and processing circuit includes the DMX signal input port, the MCU microprocessor circuit is connected with the DSP image processing circuit and the projection module device circuit, the DSP image processing circuit is connected with the storage equipment port, whereas the projection module device circuit is connected with the analogue video input port and the digital video input port. The device and system which control the projector based on the DMX protocol use standard DMX ports and are compatible with DMX ports of lighting equipment. |
| US08353594B2 |
Digital eyewear
Improved eyewear is disclosed. The eyewear comprises a frame member and a lens. The eyewear also includes circuitry within the frame member for enhancing the use of the eyewear. A system and method in accordance with the present invention is directed to a variety of ways to enhance the use of eyeglasses. They are: (1) media focals, that is, utilizing the eyewear for its intended purpose and enhancing that use by using imaging techniques to improve the vision of the user; (2) telecommunications enhancements that allow the eyeglasses to be integrated with telecommunication devices such as cell phones or the like; and (3) entertainment enhancements that allow the eyewear to be integrated with devices such as MP3 players, radios, or the like. |
| US08353593B2 |
Hinge mechanism for a fluid filled lens assembly
In an embodiment, a hinge for a fluid-filled lens assembly includes a base having a first end configured to connect to a temple arm of the lens assembly and a second end configured to connect to a frame of the lens assembly, wherein the base includes a gap that is shaped to allow for tubing to pass from the first end to the second end of the base. In an embodiment, the first end of the base includes a cammed surface configured to engage a surface of the temple arm. In an embodiment, the first and second ends of the base are configured to flex around a rotation axis of the hinge. |
| US08353592B2 |
Wide format printer with media encoder in the platen
A wide format printer that has a vacuum platen assembly, a printhead assembly spaced from the vacuum platen assembly, a media path extending between the vacuum platen assembly and the printhead assembly and a media encoder embedded within the vacuum platen assembly wherein, the media path is greater than 432 mm (17 inches) wide. |
| US08353591B2 |
Apparatus and method for printing corrugated cardboard sheets
A printer using ink jet printing technology to print one or more colors on a sheet for use in a box is described. The printer has a feeder, a transport mechanism for moving the sheet the print head, and a stacker to receive the printed sheet. Differential air pressure is applied by a suction box disposed in proximity to a conveyer belt for transporting the sheet. The suction box may sized so that the sheet may be oriented with a long dimension in the direction of feeding. Where multiple print heads are used, the print heads overlap in the direction transverse to the motion of the sheet so that an image larger than a print head may be produced. Two printing mechanisms disposed opposite each other may be used to print two sides of a sheet. |
| US08353589B2 |
Image forming method
Disclosed is a method for forming an image with an ink-jet recoding method which forms the image on a coated printing paper by employing an ink containing water in an amount of 20 to 90% weight based on the total weight of the ink, a pigment and a resin, the method containing the sequential steps of: applying an aqueous processing solution on the coated printing paper; drying the aqueous processing solution applied on the coated printing paper; and ejecting droplets of the ink on the coated printing paper, wherein the aqueous processing solution is capable of aggregating the ink or increasing a viscosity of the ink, and the coated printing paper is heated from 40 to 60° C. during the step of ejecting the droplets of the ink. |
| US08353585B2 |
Waste liquid collector
A waste liquid collector is detachably mounted on a device including a discharge unit discharging a waste liquid and stores the waste liquid discharged from the discharge unit when the waste liquid collector is mounted on the device. The waste liquid collector includes: an opening through which the discharge unit is inserted or extracted at the time of mounting or detaching the waste liquid collector on or from the device; a collector-side connection terminal which comes in contact with a device-side connection terminal included in the device when the discharge unit of the device is inserted into the opening; and a positioning unit which positions the collector-side connection terminal to come in contact with the device-side connection terminal when the waste liquid collector is mounted on the device. |
| US08353583B2 |
Liquid container
A liquid container comprises a liquid container pouch of flexible sheets and a liquid outlet between the pair of flexible sheets to permit extraction of a liquid in the pouch. The pouch includes a pair of side portions and a lower gusseted portion defining a basal gusset and including bilateral edge portions overlapping individual lower border zones on the side constituting the lower borders of the pair of side portions during extraction of liquid. The individual lower border zones and the individual bilateral side edge portions overlap to define sealed portions; the lower gusseted portion has a fold line parallel to the lower border between the bilateral edge portions and is oriented in a folding direction to define a chevron shape pointing inwardly into the pouch; and the two sealed portions having regulators to restrain outward expansion by a greater extent than other faces on the pair of side portions. |
| US08353579B2 |
Droplet ejecting head capable of suppressing worsening of deformation efficiency of actuator
A first piezoelectric layer is formed with independent electrodes separated from one another and arranged at positions corresponding to openings of pressure chambers. The first layer has independent active portions at positions where the independent electrodes are located. The independent active portions can displace selectively. A second piezoelectric layer is formed with individual electrodes connected by connection electrodes and arranged at positions corresponding to the openings. The second layer has individual active portions at positions where the individual electrodes are located. The individual active portions cannot displace selectively. Each opening has a shape that is longer in one direction than in another direction intersecting the one direction. Each individual electrode has a shape that is longer in the one direction than in the another direction. The connection electrodes connect one-direction ends of the individual electrodes with one another, the one-direction ends being ends in the one direction. |
| US08353575B2 |
Nozzle sheet and method for manufacturing the same
Provided is a nozzle sheet manufacturing method by which highly fine manufacture and low cost are achieved. The method for manufacturing a nozzle sheet to be used for an inkjet head for an inkjet printer is provided with a step of forming a first resin sheet on a patterned liquid repellent film on a first dummy substrate, a step of forming a first nozzle which penetrates the first resin sheet, and a step of peeling the first dummy substrate. |
| US08353569B2 |
Inkjet printing apparatus and printing method
In an inkjet printing method of performing printing on a printing medium by ejecting inks from a printing head configured to eject chromatic inks and an achromatic ink while moving the printing head, high-quality printing with few boundary stripes produced when the amount of inks is large is realized without complicated control being performed. To this end, print data in a boundary and the vicinity thereof is divided into unit regions, and for each unit region, performed are (A) a first reduction processing which determines a hue of the unit region based on amounts of the chromatic inks, and reduces the amount of chromatic inks applied to the unit region according to the determined hue; and (B) a second reduction processing which reduces an amount of achromatic ink based on the amount of achromatic ink applied to the unit region. |
| US08353567B1 |
Drive waveform generation
In one embodiment, a drive waveform generator to control ejection of liquid from a set of ejection elements in single-pass printing. A first waveform source defines a first aspect of a drive waveform for the set of ejection elements and for other ejection elements. A second waveform source defines a second aspect of the drive waveform for the set of ejection elements but not for the other ejection elements. A circuit uses the first waveform source and the second waveform source to generate the drive waveform having the first and second aspects. |
| US08353565B2 |
Method for refilling ink cartridge
An ink refilling method capable of refilling ink into at least two kinds of ink cartridges having different ink capacities and having substantially the same outer configurations, the method includes a step of discriminating the kind of the ink cartridge; a step of determining the capacity of the ink cartridge on the basis of a result of the discriminating step; and a step of filling, into the ink cartridge, an amount of the ink on the basis of the capacity determined in the determining step. |
| US08353560B2 |
No-tools chair assembly
A chair assembly including a seat, a back and at least one arm that are detachably connected together without requiring the use of tools or special skill. The chair assembly can be advantageously shipped disassembled in a compact, space-efficient package to reduce shipping costs. A seat bracket affixed to the arm is slidably and removably received by a seat bracket receiver affixed to the seat, whereby the arm is detachably connected to the seat. A back bracket affixed to the back is slidably and removably received by a back bracket receiver at the arm, whereby the back is detachably connected to the arm. The back bracket includes a locking catch that is adapted to rotate into and out of locking engagement with one of a set of serrated edges from a locking plate of the back bracket receiver after the back bracket slides into removable receipt by the back bracket receiver. |
| US08353558B2 |
Lifter device for vehicle seat
A vehicle seat lifter includes front and rear links with upper ends pivoted to a side frame of the seat and lower ends pivoted to front and rear floor brackets. A front hitting segment is in a front portion of the side frame spaced from a front catch in the front bracket, and a rear hitting segment is in a rear portion of the side frame spaced from a rear catch in the rear bracket. The front hitting segment is stopped by the front catch when the side frame is displaced frontward along with a deformation of the front and rear links due to forces during a frontal collision. The rear hitting segment is stopped by the rear catch when the side frame is displaced rearward along with a deformation of the front and rear links due to forces during a rear collision. |
| US08353554B2 |
Vehicle provided with detachable convertible top
A vehicle provided with a coachwork; an interior compartment surrounded by the coachwork and frontally delimited by a windscreen surrounded by an U-shaped molding; and a detachable convertible top, which can be connected to the coachwork in order to close the interior compartment on the top and comprises, in turn, a covering cloth and a frame which is mechanically connectable to the coachwork and supports the covering cloth; the frame comprises a rear cross member, which can be coupled to a rear portion of the coachwork arranged immediately behind the interior compartment; and an arch, which is hinged to the rear cross member in order to rotate around a first axis, can be frontally coupled to the molding of the windscreen, and determines the locking of the rear cross member to the rear portion of the coachwork due to its rotation around the first axis. |
| US08353551B2 |
Linear latch with spring biased adjustment bar for use with an upper rear pivoting seat back
A linear latch interconnecting a pivotally adjustable seatback with a frame location of a vehicle interior. A bracket supported housing pivotally secures to a surface of the frame. An elongated member is supported in linearly displaceable fashion to the bracket and exhibits a plurality of spaced apart apertures. A forward extending end of the member connects to the seatback. A coil spring influences seats over the elongated member and biases the same in a first lineal direction away from the housing. A pair of pins are anchored to an inner support member within the housing and which is biased in a first lateral direction to cause the pins to seat through aligning apertures in the elongated member. A cable retracting mechanism displaces the inner support member in a second opposite direction, causing the pins to outwardly displace from the elongated member and to permit adjustment relative to the housing in order to define a range of seatback motion between upright design and rear recline positions. |
| US08353549B2 |
Push button mechanism for opening and closing a storage compartment for a vehicle
An opening and closing mechanism for a lid of a storage receptacle provided on a vehicle comprises a push button, a button pin and a lid linkage. The push button includes a first slider having an inclined face at a rear end thereof. The button pin includes a second slider having a first inclined face cooperating with the inclined face of the first slider. The first inclined face is spaced from a rear end of the second slider. The second slider is biased to contact the first slider. The lid linkage has a first end selectively engaged by the rear end of the second slider and a second end for selectively locking the lid in a closed state. The lid linkage is biased toward the second slider. Engagement of the push button with the button pin moves the second slider, which, in turn, allows the lid linkage to move toward the second slider to unlock the storage receptacle lid. |
| US08353541B2 |
Lock mechanism for a casement window
The invention relates to a lock mechanism for a casement window having a keeper adapted to be attached to a sash, a lockbar adapted to be attached to a frame for engaging with the keeper to lock the casement window, and an actuator for actuating the lockbar to engage with the keeper. The actuator includes a fork having a V shaped groove, the V shaped groove includes a first leg and a second leg, and the actuator includes a switch having a channel for placement of a drive pin. The switch is rotatably mounted at a juncture of the first and second legs so that the channel generally aligns with either the first leg or the second leg for facilitating alignment of the drive pin within the V shaped groove. |
| US08353540B2 |
Battery cover latching mechanism for portable electronic device
A battery cover latching mechanism comprises a housing, a cover and a latch. The housing has at least one hook protruding therefrom. The cover has at least one latching hole defined therethrough and releasably latching with the hook. The latch is rotatably mounted to the cover and resisting the hook. When the latch is rotated relative to the cover, the latch pushes the hook to release the latching engagement of the hook and the latching hole. |
| US08353539B2 |
Pipe connector with fastener having sliding blocks for fastening
A pipe connector for connecting to a first pipe includes a second pipe and a fastener. The second pipe has a number of connection sections of difference outer diameters, one of which is fittingly coupled to the first pipe. The fastener sleeves on the first pipe and the second pipe and fastens the first pipe to the second pipe. |
| US08353538B2 |
Connection devices and male-female connection system comprising them
A male-female connection device, wherein the male connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is advanced in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The female connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is set back in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The male and female connection devices can be engaged within each other. |
| US08353537B2 |
Connection devices and male-female connection system comprising them
A male-female connection device, wherein the male connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is advanced in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The female connection device includes a sleeve and a slide that is adapted to occupy, relative to the sleeve, a position in which the slide is set back in the sleeve, the device also including a tubular film folded back on itself and pressed between the slide and the sleeve. The male and female connection devices can be engaged within each other. |
| US08353533B2 |
Steering apparatus
A steering apparatus having a stationary bracket fixed to a vehicle body including a pair of first side plates; a receiving portion provided on the steering column for receiving one end of a conductive member; a pair of second side plates; a conductive cylindrical shaft secured between the pair of first side plates and inserted through the pair of the second side plates; and a plate-shaped conductive member interposed between the receiving portion and an outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical shaft. The conductive member includes first and second bow springs that fit the cylindrical shaft resiliently. The first bow spring is interposed between the second bow spring and the receiving portion, a first contact portion of the second bow spring is pressed to the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical shaft, and a second contact portion of the first bow spring is pressed to the receiving portion. |
| US08353532B2 |
Airbag and airbag apparatus
[Subject] To provide an airbag and an airbag apparatus which are able to absorb an impact of an occupant even when a gas inflator is downsized and to fulfill demands such as downsizing, cost reduction, weight reduction, and the like of the airbag apparatus.[Solving Means] A airbag apparatus in the present invention includes an inflator (gas generator) 1 configured to generate gas under predetermined conditions, an airbag 2 being connected to the inflator 1 and configured to be inflated and deployed, and a retainer (not shown) configured to store the airbag 2, the airbag 2 includes a vent hole 3 formed on an outer shell of the airbag 2 and opening and closing means 4 configured to open and close the vent hole 3, the opening and closing means 4 is configured to maintain the vent hole 3 in a substantially closed state until inflation and deployment of the airbag 2 are completed and bring the vent hole 3 into a fully-opened state before a flattening amount of the airbag 2 reaches a predetermined reference value. |
| US08353526B2 |
Air bag assembly with air bag guide secured by multiple fasteners
A vehicle seat may include a seat back having a frame, a trim cover disposed on the seat back that includes a deployment seam, and an air bag module having an inflator and an air bag. The air bag may be configured to be inflated by the inflator to sever and deploy through the deployment seam. The air bag module may include a mounting stud that extends through the frame, first and second mounting nuts threaded onto the mounting stud to secure the air bag module to the frame, and an air bag guide. The air bag guide may have a first end located adjacent to the deployment seam and a second end disposed opposite the first end. The second end may engage and be disposed between the first and second mounting nuts. |
| US08353524B2 |
Wheeled cart slidable onto horizontal surface
A wheeled cart capable of rolling along a first environmental surface, which may carry a plurality of storage receptacles in gimballing fashion thereon, and which enables the wheeled cart to be slid onto an elevated second environmental surface. The wheeled cart comprises a base supporting wheels and two upright support posts. A subframe supporting the storage receptacles is pivotally and slidably mounted to the upright support posts. The subframe may be inclined from its usual vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation and slid onto the second environmental surface. The base and support posts may be inclined from their usual vertical orientation to reassume longitudinal alignment with the subframe. Contents of the storage receptacles are thus moved en masse onto the second environmental surface without requiring removal from the wheeled cart, while constantly assuming their orientation relative to a vertical direction because of gimballing action of the storage receptacles. |
| US08353521B1 |
Trailer caddy
A trailer caddy is provided for enabling a user to tow or otherwise maneuver trailers or agricultural equipment with a light-duty pickup truck that would otherwise have too great of a tongue weight for towing behind a pickup truck. The caddy includes a trailer chassis with at least one axle having wheels mounted thereon. A fifth-wheel hitch having a frame is configured so that the frame is affixed to the chassis such that the frame faces opposite the chassis. The caddy also includes a hitch assembly configured to connect to various hitch styles. |
| US08353520B2 |
Infant carrier apparatus with a joint structure having an anti-pinch safety feature
A joint structure having an anti-pinch safety feature comprises a first support element and a second support element, and a joint structure including a coupling socket and an anti-pinch element. The coupling socket is respectively connected with the first and second support element. The anti-pinch element is interposed between the second support element and the coupling socket. The second support element when rotating about a pivot axis relative to the coupling socket forms a pinch region between an edge of the coupling socket and the second support element, and the anti-pinch element can continuously occlude the pinch region when the second support element is rotating. The joint structure can be suitable for use in a support frame of an infant carrier apparatus. |
| US08353516B2 |
Travel game
A toy play set for containing at least one predetermined board game includes a generally elongated body having a hollow interior, first and second opposing longitudinal ends, and a generally curved side wall extending around the hollow interior between the first and second ends. The first and second ends and side wall generally surround the hollow interior in a closed configuration of the body. The body has an open configuration in which the hollow interior is at least partially accessible. A playing surface is operably engaged with the body and is configured to play the predetermined board game. The playing surface is shaped and sized to enable the playing surface to be completely stored within the hollow interior of the body with the body in the closed configuration. The playing surface is accessible at least with the body in the open configuration for playing of the predetermined board game. |
| US08353515B2 |
Pyramid game
A three-dimensional game shaped as a pyramid or prism with four or more faces, in which each face has nine terraced levels that attenuate to the peak of the pyramid. Each level has a plurality of circular depressions for the placement of each player's playing pieces. The corresponding level of each face has the same number of circular depressions, and each consecutive higher level has two fewer depressions than its immediate lower level. The peak of the pyramid is truncated and has a single circular depression. The peak can only be occupied by one playing piece at a time. |
| US08353508B2 |
Image forming apparatus
Provided is an image forming apparatus, which includes: a pressing lever and a pressing arm for pushing up a sheet stacking plate so that sheets stacked on the sheet stacking plate are brought into pressure contact with a sheet feeding portion; a lifter driving mechanism for driving the pressing lever and the pressing arm; and a setting mechanism disposed between the pressing lever and the pressing arm, and the lifter driving mechanism. The setting mechanism is capable of setting a pressure contact force for bringing the sheets stacked on the sheet stacking plate into pressure contact with the sheet feeding portion, to be appropriate for a size of the sheets to be stacked and an amount of the sheets to be stacked. |
| US08353505B2 |
Apparatus for making a booklet-like product
An apparatus for making a booklet-like product comprises a paper feeding part; a superposing part for superposing a plurality of continuous webs of paper fed to travel from the paper feeding part, whereby a layered continuous sheet of paper is prepared; a cutting part for cutting the layered continuous sheet into successive separate layered sheets of paper; a conveyance passage; and a stacking and ejection part for causing the separate layered sheets traveling along the conveyance passage to be piled every predetermined number thereof and to be ejected in the form of piles of sheets, each to form the booklet-like product. The superposing part is provided with a paste nozzle for applying paste to one of two adjacent such continuous webs of paper on its one side and a further paste nozzle for applying paste to the upper surface of the layered continuous sheet. |
| US08353503B2 |
Edge alignment control apparatus for sheet material
An edge alignment control apparatus for correcting vertical alignment of sheet members is disclosed to include two base units each having multiple first power drives controllable to reciprocate a respective horizontal reciprocating member, and adjustment units arranged between the base units, each adjustment unit having two holder blocks connected to the horizontal reciprocating members of the base units at one same elevation and movable by the respective horizontal reciprocating members horizontally, sheet-transfer rollers pivotally connected between the holder blocks, a bearing board connected between the holder blocks for receiving a sheet member from the sheet-transfer rollers and a suction hood suspending above the bearing board and defining with the bearing board a passage for the passing of a sheet member and controllable to suck up a sheet member from the bearing board for allowing adjustment of the position of the sheet member horizontally subject to the operation of the first power drive. |
| US08353502B2 |
Hinged base for positioning heavy components
According to one embodiment, an apparatus for tilting objects includes a lower portion which comprises at least one foot plate and at least three supporting walls. A height of the top of the lower portion is about the height of a supporting structure. The apparatus also includes an upper portion which comprises a substantially flat surface and at least one connector for coupling a node carrier to the upper portion. The upper portion is coupled to the lower portion, and the upper portion tilts relative to the lower portion between an angle about horizontal to an angle about vertical. |
| US08353498B2 |
Manual switching valve
In a manual switching valve, which enables a valve plug to be opened and closed manually, a piston is threadedly engaged with a shaft that is inserted through a housing, wherein a handle having a switching mechanism therein is installed on an upper end of the shaft. After a valve plug is seated on a valve seat, any further turning force applied to the handle is interrupted without being transmitted to the shaft owing to the fact that balls disengage from tooth portions of the shaft. |
| US08353496B2 |
Trophy assembly with twist connector
A trophy assembly having a base with an integral lower clip, a column with interior column ribs, in which the lower clip is adapted to engage the column ribs, thereby joining the base and the column when the column is placed over the clip and rotated. A trophy assembly having a base attached to a lid with an integral clip, and a column with interior column ribs, wherein the clip is adapted to engage the column ribs, thereby joining the base, the lid and the column when the column is placed over the clip and rotated. A trophy column having an exterior column surface and an interior column surface with a plurality of inwardly and longitudinally extending ribs. A plastic base for use in a trophy assembly having a base and a column, wherein the base has in integral clip adapted to engage ribs on the interior surface of the column. A figure for use in a trophy assemble having a column with ribs on the interior column surface wherein the figure has an integral clip adapted to engage the ribs. A lid for a trophy assembly that is attachable to a base, figure or platform, in which the lid has an integral clip adapted to engage the column ribs. |
| US08353495B2 |
Cup holder
In a non-use state where no beverage container is housed in a housing space, holding claws are urged by a ring spring to an advanced reference position where the holding claws are mostly advanced into the housing space and a bottom plate is urged by a coil spring to a highest reference position where the bottom plate is mostly moved upwardly. When a beverage container is housed in the housing space, the holding claws are pushed toward the radial outer direction of the housing space by the side surface of the beverage container, whereby the holding claws move backwardly against the urging force of the ring spring. Simultaneously, since the weight of the beverage container is applied to the bottom plate, the bottom plate moves downwardly against the urging force of the coil spring, whereby a lock member moves downwardly together with the downward movement of the bottom plate. Thus, since a restricted slanted surface abuts against the lock member, the weight of the beverage container is transmitted to a restricted vertical surface from the lock member, so that the backward movement of the holding claw is restricted. |
| US08353481B2 |
Spin-stabilized lander
The invention provides a novel, low-cost, spin-stabilized lander architecture capable (with appropriate system scaling tailored to the attributes of the target) of performing a soft-landing on a solar-system body such as Earth's Moon, Mars, Venus, the moons of Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, selected near-Earth and main-belt asteroids, comets and Kuiper belt objects and even large human-made objects, and also moving about on the surface of the target solar-system body after the initial landing in movement akin to hopping. |
| US08353477B2 |
Device for the improvement of individual comfort in an airplane
A device and method for increasing comfort in an aircraft. The device and method utilizes a surface arranged between a ceiling paneling of a cabin of the aircraft and a passenger. The surface is arranged to face the passenger and is positionable so that a distance between the surface and the passenger is changeable. The device is structured and arranged to at least one of affect a thermal comfort of the passenger and supply air to the passenger via the surface. |
| US08353476B2 |
Truss-shaped engine pylon and method of making same
An aircraft engine pylon comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, a left side wall, and a right side wall. The left side wall includes a left truss structure along with a left upper ledge and a left lower ledge. The right side wall includes a right truss structure along with a right upper ledge and a right lower ledge. The top wall is joined with the left upper ledge and the right upper ledge and an upper truss structure is formed in the left upper ledge, the right upper ledge, and the top wall. The bottom wall is joined with the left lower ledge and the right lower ledge and a lower truss structure is formed in the left lower ledge, the right lower ledge, and the bottom wall. |
| US08353473B2 |
Scrap material shredding and compressing apparatus and system
A scrap material recycling apparatus includes a feeder, a shredder and a separator, the feeder and the shredder mutually coupled, and the shredder and separator mutually coupled. The feeder includes a means for compressing a quantity of scrap material and means for advancing the scrap material to the shredder. The shredder includes a grate assembly and a rotor, the rotor having a plurality of cutting means, the rotor mechanically rotated to reduce the scrap material. The separator separates the reduced scrap material by fractional composition. The recycling apparatus may be configured so as to be a transportable system, thereby allowing such system to be relocated at or near scrap material stockpile locations. |
| US08353469B2 |
Spray gun and coating system with filter in spray gun nozzle
A nozzle for a powder spray gun optionally includes an internal filter that allows air to be added to the powder flow within the nozzle shell. The nozzle may optionally include an off-axis outlet slot relative to a main flow axis of the powder into the nozzle shell so that powder encounters an obstruction before exiting through the outlet slot. |
| US08353468B2 |
Device for controlling the flow of anesthetic from a reservoir
The present invention may be embodied as a device for selectively opening or closing an anesthetic reservoir, the device having a first component adaptable to a reservoir and a second component adaptable to a vaporizer. The first component may have a base, a nozzle, and a through-hole. The second component may have a support member with a knob for engaging the through-hole of the first component and preventing liquid from flowing from the through-hole. The first and second components may be threaded to engage with each other such that when the components are twisted relative to each other, the knob may move toward or away from the through-hole to prevent or allow liquid flow. |
| US08353467B2 |
Fluid spraying gun
A fluid spraying gun of the present invention includes: a tube-shape guide, on which a brush extending forward is implanted; a nozzle, which is formed of a flexible pipe member with a front end thereof as a free end, and sprays one portion of gas, which is supplied from the flow separation portion and passes through the nozzle, toward the brush from the front end thereof, while the nozzle undergoes the gyrating motion guided by the tube-shape guide; an inner nozzle, which sprays gas which has passed through a flow rate adjustment portion from a tip portion thereof; and a liquid distribution pipe, which penetrates the tube-shape guide, links an inside of the tube-shape guide with a liquid supply source, has an intermediate portion into which the inner nozzle is inserted in a state where the inner nozzle is directed toward the tube-shape guide, and draws up liquid from the liquid supply source by a negative pressure arising from spraying of gas by the inner nozzle to cause spraying of liquid on the inside of the tube-shape guide. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a fluid spraying gun in which a liquid with an adequate flow rate can be mixed with a gas, converted into minute drops and sprayed. |
| US08353466B2 |
Atomization structure and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention discloses an atomization structure comprising a carrier, a cover plate, a piezoelectric driving device and an atomization piece. The carrier includes at least one first support portion, the cover plate comprises at least one second support portion, and the carrier is covered by the plate covers. The piezoelectric driving device is disposed between the carrier and the cover plate, the atomization piece is clamped by one end of the piezoelectric driving device. The actuating effect of the piezoelectric driving device would not be absorbed but kept by point contacting the first support portions and the second support portions to clamp and support the piezoelectric driving device. |
| US08353465B2 |
Dispensers for aerosol systems
A dispenser for an aerosol system for dispensing liquid material includes an outlet member, a collar member, an actuator member, and a selector member. The outlet member defines an outlet opening. The actuator member supports the collar member and the outlet member such that movement of the collar member relative to the actuator member causes the collar member to deform the outlet member. Movement of the selector member relative to the collar member causes movement of the collar member relative to the actuator member. Deformation of the outlet member alters a cross-sectional area of the outlet opening. |
| US08353464B2 |
Tunable vibration absorbing device
A Tuned Mass Damper (TMD) for reducing vibration and noise radiation from rails incorporates a series of oscillation mass (8) of different sizes held in position by layers of resilient material (9) and attached to the rail via several steel mounting plates (4). Each mounting plate (4) is fixed to the rail by two magnets (5). A bolt (10) is inserted through the mounting plates (4), resilient layers (9) and oscillation masses (8) alternatively. The bolt (10) is fixed to a middle mounting plate (4) such that different compressive forces can be provided on the two sides by tightening nuts (11) to different pre-set torques. When the resonance frequency of the oscillation masses (8) is tuned to that of rail, most of the rail vibration energy at resonance frequency is transferred to the oscillation masses (8) and eventually dissipated in the resilient layers (9). |
| US08353458B2 |
Network system, cable set, and method and program for controlling network system
A network system is provided with a cable set having a nonvolatile memory module mounted thereon, and a printer connected by the cable set. The printer is provided with a set information read means for reading set information for performing initial setting of itself from a nonvolatile memory module of the connected cable set, and an initial setting means for performing initial setting based on the read set information. |
| US08353457B2 |
Systems and methods for forming a composite image of multiple portions of an object from multiple perspectives
Various improved imager-based optical code readers and associated methods are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, an imager-based method reads an optical code (which may be, for example, a linear optical code such as a bar code) on an object in a viewing volume. The method comprises dividing an image plane into a plurality of strip-shaped sections, viewing the object in the viewing volume from a plurality of perspectives, forming a plurality of strip-shaped images corresponding to the plurality of perspectives, respectively, thereby creating a composite image containing data from a plurality of perspectives, and processing at least a portion of the composite image so as to ascertain the information encoded in the optical code on the object in the viewing volume. Certain embodiments can mimic the performance of a laser-based scanner without a laser or moving parts but instead utilizing an electronic imaging device such as an imager. |
| US08353456B2 |
Image-based inventory control system
Inventory control systems for monitoring the removal and replacement of objects are described. An exemplary system includes at least one storage drawer, each storage drawer includes at least one storage location for storing objects, and configured to move in a first direction allowing increasing access to storage locations of the drawer, and a second direction allowing decreasing access to storage locations of the drawer. An image sensing device is provided to form at least one first image of the storage locations when a respective storage drawer moves in the second direction. The system includes a data processor configured to receive information representing images of the storage locations generated by the image sensing device, and determine an inventory condition of the objects stored in the respective storage drawer according to the at least one first image. |
| US08353450B2 |
Banking system controlled responsive to data bearing recordings and user input of a phone received security code
A banking system operates to cause financial transfers responsive to card data read from data bearing records by a card reader. The system includes at least one automated banking machine comprising a cash dispenser. The system is operative during a cash dispense transaction request to receive through an automated banking machine, user input of data corresponding to a mobile phone number. The system is operative to generate a security code for the requested cash dispense transaction. The system uses the phone number to send the generated security code to the mobile phone. The cash dispense transaction is allowed to proceed only if the system receives machine user input of the sent security code within a predetermined amount of time. |
| US08353449B1 |
System controlled responsive to data bearing records and operative to cause financial transfers
An automated banking machine operates responsive to data bearing records to cause financial transfers. The automated banking machine includes a card reader operative to data card read from user cards. The machine is operative to cause financial transfers responding at least in part to a determination that the read card data corresponds to at least one of an authorized user or an authorized financial account. The automated banking machine includes a display and a printer to produce records of financial transfers carried out with the machine. The automated banking machine includes a housing including a chest. The chest is supported on a safe. The safe includes a depository head that extends upward on the safe and in front of the chest. |
| US08353448B1 |
Method and system for using machine-readable codes to perform automated teller machine transactions through a mobile communications device
The present disclosure provides a number of systems and associated processes for using machine-readable codes to perform a transaction. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and associated processes for consolidating and replacing various forms of payment (e.g. credit cards, debit cards, and cash) with a single payment system. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and associated processes for reordering a product provided by a product provider. Moreover, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and associated processes for accepting a gift, or gift transaction, associated with a gift card. In addition, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a system and associated processes for performing an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) transaction using a machine-readable code. |
| US08353447B2 |
Device and method for contact information exchange
A method and device exchanging contact information on an electronic device. Contact information is obtained from a contact by scanning a barcode using an electronic device and decoding the barcode to recover the contact information encoded therein. The contact information may be used to reciprocate by sending user contact data in a message addressed to an electronic address obtained from the contact information. The user contact data may be encoded in a second barcode displayed on the electronic device. |
| US08353445B2 |
Storage and transport container
Provided is a stackable storage and transport container for storing and for single-use or multiple-use transport of goods, especially small parts. The container is assembled from a foldable container blank having a bottom, two side walls foldable about a fold, two end walls foldable about a fold, and four corner flaps foldable inward against the side walls or end walls about a fold. Tabs are formed on the side walls and end walls such that they can fold laterally against the intermediate pieces. A stackable profile having a hook edge is placed about the upper edge to provide for the stacking of a number of containers. The container blank preferably is made of a plastic hollow sheet. |
| US08353442B2 |
Support device for resonator
The purpose of this invention is to provide a support device for a resonator that can support the resonator at an optional location, can let the resonator vibrate with a specified vibration consistently, and can apply an ultrasonic vibration to objects efficiently. By inserting first clamping means and second clamping means, which comprise supporting member at least at each contacting portion, into first portion-to-be-supported and second portion-to-be-supported of resonator, the resonator is supported. As substances of the supporting member, substances that have a logarithmic decrement higher than 0.01 and lower than 1.0 and/or a sound propagation speed of more than 5900 m/s are suitable. |
| US08353441B2 |
Surgical instrument with pivotable jaw member
A surgical instrument for surgically joining tissue is disclosed. The surgical instrument includes a handle assembly, an elongated portion extending distally from the handle assembly and defining a longitudinal axis, and an end effector disposed adjacent a distal portion of the elongated portion. The end effector includes a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The first jaw member defines a first axis, which is transverse to the longitudinal axis. The first jaw member is pivotable about the first axis. At least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member is movable with respect to the other between a spaced-apart and an approximated position. |
| US08353440B2 |
Surgical device having a rotatable jaw portion
A surgical device is provided that includes a jaw portion, having a first jaw in opposed correspondence with a second jaw, the second jaw including a surgical member. The surgical device may include a shaft portion coupled to a proximal end of the jaw portion and at least one motor configured to rotate the jaw portion relative to the shaft portion, to move the jaw portion relative to the shaft portion, move the first jaw relative to the second jaw and move the surgical member within the second jaw. The surgical member may be prevented from moving within the second jaw unless the first jaw is in a closed position relative to the second jaw. Advantageously, the surgical member may be, e.g., a cutting element and/or a stapling element, disposed within one of the jaws. |
| US08353437B2 |
Surgical stapling instrument with a geared return mechanism
A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. The firing drive can include a pawl which can be selectively engaged with the firing member in order to advance the firing member, wherein the pawl can be disengaged from the firing member when the reversing drive is engaged with the firing member. The reversing drive can include a gear train having a first gear operably engaged with the firing member and, in addition, a second gear operably engaged with the first gear, wherein the second gear can be selectively operable with the trigger such that an actuation of the trigger can retract the firing member and/or cutting element via the first and second gears. |
| US08353433B2 |
Two-part structural support member for a harness for breathing apparatus
A structural support member 10 for a harness 100 for breathing apparatus, the structural support member being generally elongate and arranged in use to support a cylinder of breathable gas and one or more components operatively associated with the breathing apparatus, wherein the structural support member comprises first and second parts 20, 30 defining therebetween a housing for retaining one or more of the components. |
| US08353432B2 |
Stroller having a rotary accessory device
An accessory support device for a stroller apparatus comprises a coupling fixture securely mounted on a handle of a stroller and including a plurality of latching openings, a rotary socket pivotally assembled with the coupling fixture and including a detent and a connecting portion, and an accessory support frame detachably fastened with the connecting portion of the rotary socket. The accessory support frame is operable to rotate with the rotary socket relative to the coupling fixture, and the detent is movable to engage with any one of the latching openings for locking the accessory support frame at different angular positions relative to the coupling fixture. |
| US08353430B2 |
Pressurized dispensable container operable in any orientation
An improved container and closure. Some embodiments are directed toward a pressurized container adapted to be utilized in any orientation. In one particular embodiment, a bladder separates a dispensable fluid in the container from a pressurizing fluid. Movement of the bladder via force from the pressuring fluid keeping the dispensable fluid in fluid communication with an outlet of the container regardless of orientation of the container. Some embodiments provide an improved sealing arrangement for a pressurized container and closure, wherein a bladder is utilized as a seal between the container and the closure. |
| US08353422B2 |
Fuel delivery module
Fuel delivery modules are already known having a tank flange and having an accumulator pot which is connected to the tank flange by means of at least one guide rod and which is mounted so as to be axially movable along the guide rod, where the guide rod is pressed with one end into a receptacle of the tank flange. It is disadvantageous that the receptacle is expanded over the entire longitudinal extent as the guide rod is pressed in. As a result of tolerance fluctuations in production, excessively high pressures can occur in the receptacle here, which pressures can cause cracks in the receptacle. This leads to rejects and therefore to high production costs. In the fuel delivery module according to the invention, damage to the receptacle during assembly is prevented. According to the invention, it is provided that that end of the guide rod which faces toward the tank flange has a bead, which interacts in a retentive manner with the receptacle, and a constriction situated behind the bead in a direction facing away from the tank flange. |
| US08353421B2 |
Container with hinge lid
A container includes a body portion having a side wall and a base wall, a first lid, and a second lid. The first lid is removably mounted to the side wall and the body portion and the first lid forms a first compartment. The second lids is connected to the body portion along a hinge and forms at least a part of the base of the container. The body portion and the second lid form a second compartment which is located on the opposite side of the base wall to the first compartment. |
| US08353420B1 |
Threaded closure
A horizontal hinged closure with a large diameter track ring attached directly to the rear of a female threaded head. The threaded female head is designed to removably attach to a male threaded structure. A bearing ring with cam followers that engage the track ring to allow the threaded head to be rotated relative to the male threaded structure to attach and remove the threaded head there from. The bearing ring is attached to a hinge arm that allows the removed threaded head to be moved away from the male threaded structure and then rotated about a vertical axis. Direct attachment of the large diameter track ring to the rear of the threaded head moves the center of gravity forward, resulting in the threaded head remaining essentially vertical when it is removed from the male threaded structure and thereby making it easier to reattach to the male threaded structure. |
| US08353417B1 |
Multi-purpose floatable container having a linkage disc for laterally securing an additional container
A multi-purpose floatable container includes a casing, a cap, at least one linkage disc, and at least one buckling bolt. The casing has four corners and each corner has a linking groove, an upper hole, an upper enlarged hole, and a lower hole. The at least one linkage disc is partially and respectively inserted into at least one of the linking grooves. Each one of the at least one linkage disc has four connecting orifices longitudinally defined through the linkage disc. Each one of the at least one buckling bolt is inserted into the top hole of one of the corners, the upper hole, the connecting orifice, and the lower hole for fixing the cap on the casing. The container can be utilized as a single unit for storing objects in the casing. Multiple containers can also be assembled to form a floating platform for diversified purposes. |
| US08353408B2 |
Centrifugal air classifier
A centrifugal air classifier, in which a relation between an area S1 of a side surface of a cylinder or a truncated cone circumscribed about the rotor blades, an axis of the cylinder or a truncated cone being the rotor rotational shaft, and a calculation average value D of a diameter of a circle orthogonal to the rotor rotational shaft and circumscribed about the rotor blades is S1/D2=0.9 to 1.6, and with the S1, a relation between a cross sectional area S2 of inflow of the air for classification and the D is S2/D2=0.8 to 1.4. |
| US08353406B2 |
System, method, and computer readable medium for creating a video clip
A system, method, and computer readable medium for creating a video clip comprises receiving still image files by a first module, creating a copy of a still image from the still image files with reduced dimensions by the first module, creating a new still image from a selected area of the still image, storing the new still image and the copy of the still image with a unified file name, ordering the stored images, creating an audio file by at least one of a second module and a third module, creating a timeline, by the first module, related to the ordered images and the created audio, and rendering the timeline into the video clip by a fourth module. |
| US08353403B2 |
Cup retaining apparatus and methods
Cup retaining apparatus and methods are described herein. Retaining a cup or glass within or along a plate assembly allows for the user to hold both the plate and cup or glass with a single hand. Generally, a cup or glass retaining plate assembly may comprise a platform defining an opening which is sized to support a cup or glass extending at least partially through the platform. A retaining clip or arm may be pivotably attached to the platform and movable between a retaining position and a releasing position, wherein the opening opens along a portion of a periphery of the platform such that the cup or glass is secured within the opening when the retaining clip or arm is in the retaining position and wherein the cup or glass is removable when the retaining clip or arm is in the releasing position. |
| US08353394B2 |
Continuous constant-rate feeding system
A continuous constant-rate feeding system includes at least one storage unit, a scratching unit and a water-cooled screw feeding unit. The storage unit includes a tank and an agitator. The tank stores material and includes upper and lower chambers. The agitator is rotationally located in the upper chamber for agitating the material. The scratching unit includes upper and lower scratchers and a material divider. The upper scratcher is located in the upper chamber and can spin to convey the material from the upper chamber into the lower chamber. The lower scratcher is located in the lower chamber and can spin to convey the material from the lower chamber into the water-cooled screw feeding unit. The material divider locates between the upper and lower chambers and spin automatically or manually to fall the material from the upper chamber into the lower chamber through a specific aperture alternately. |
| US08353392B2 |
Internally vented brake disk with improved heat dissipation
A vented brake disk has improved heat dissipation by cooling channels that extend from an inner circumference to an outer circumference and the channel walls of which are formed with flow obstructions in the form of a female thread. |
| US08353389B2 |
Braking assembly
A vehicle wheel assembly includes a fixed body member, a rotatably mounted wheel and a braking assembly that is operated by a solenoid or motor powered by a support power supply. The wheel assembly acts as a power generator to recharge the support power supply, one of the body member and the wheel being provided with a stator and the other being provided with a plurality of permanent magnets which are of alternating polarity. |
| US08353387B2 |
Ladder safety apparatus
A safety accessory for use with a ladder to slow the speed of an accidental fall of a worker, who works in an elevated position. The accessory has a C-shaped track member and a slide body that moves inside the track member. The worker's harness is secured to the slide body. Contact surfaces of the track member and the slide member are serrated to slow the speed of an accidental fall. A plurality of locking wedge members is positioned in the channel formed by the track member to further decrease the speed of an accidental fall. |
| US08353381B2 |
Transmission cross-member
A transmission cross-member for supporting a vehicle's transmission includes a center portion, a pair of outer portions extending from the center portion and a pair of mounting flanges extending from the respective outer portions and connecting to the rails of the frame of the vehicle, wherein at least one of the mounting flanges is pivotally connected to one of the outer portions. |
| US08353378B2 |
Frictional drive device and inverted pendulum type vehicle using the same
A frictional drive device comprises a pair of drive disks (48) each rotatably supported by a frame (2, 42) around a central axial line (A) in a mutually opposing relationship, and a pair of actuators (64) supported by the frame for individually rotatively actuating the drive disks and coaxially disposed with respect to the corresponding drive disks, a plurality of drive rollers (56) arranged along an outer periphery of each drive disk and each having a rotational center line so as to be rotatable along a plane which is neither parallel nor perpendicular to the central axial line, and an annular main wheel (85) disposed approximately coaxially with respect to the central axial line and engaged by the drive rollers of the drive disks, the main wheel comprising an annular member (86) and a plurality of driven rollers (92) supported along the annular member so as to be rotatable around a tangential line of the annular member. A speed reduction unit (72, 100) may be interposed between each actuator and the corresponding drive disk all in a coaxial relationship. |
| US08353374B2 |
Battery module, battery device, electric motor drive system and vehicle
A battery module includes: a plurality of battery cells; a casing in which the plurality of battery cells are housed; a plurality of conductive members used to electrically connect the plurality of battery cells; a first chamber, formed in the casing, in which the plurality of battery cells are disposed; and a second chamber, formed in the casing and isolated from the first chamber, into which emitted matter from the battery cells is released, wherein: the conductive members and the battery cells are connected together within the second chamber. |
| US08353370B2 |
Polycrystalline diamond cutting element structure
A cutting element includes a substrate having an interface surface; and an ultrahard material layer disposed on the interface surface. An interface surface includes a plurality of surface features, wherein at least one of the plurality of surface features intersects a neighboring surface feature at a height that is intermediate an extremity of the at least one of the plurality of surface features and a base of the at least one of the plurality of surface features. |
| US08353368B2 |
Resonance enhanced drilling: method and apparatus
The present invention relates to drilling apparatus comprising a drill-bit (1) capable of rotary and high frequency oscillatory loading; and control means for controlling applied rotational and/or oscillatory loading of the drill-bit, the control means having adjustment means for varying the applied rotational and/or oscillatory loading, said adjustment means being responsive to conditions of the material through which the drill is passing. The control means is in use provided on the apparatus in a downhole location and includes sensors for taking downhole measurements of material characteristics, whereby the apparatus is operable downhole under closed loop real-time control. The apparatus can determine appropriate loading parameters for the drill-bit in order to achieve and maintain resonance between the drill-bit and the drilled material in contact therewith. |
| US08353366B2 |
Methods of using a particle impact drilling system for removing near-borehole damage, milling objects in a wellbore, under reaming, coring, perforating, assisting annular flow, and associated methods
A particle impact drilling system and method are described. In several exemplary embodiments, the system and method may be a part of, and/or used with, an apparatus or system, methods, to excavate a subterranean formation. The system can including, for example, removing near-borehole damage, casing, window milling, fishing, drilling with casing, under reaming, coring, perforating, effective circulatory density management, assisted annular flow, and directional control. Embodiments of associated systems and methods are also included. |
| US08353364B2 |
Handle portion of hand-held electric tool
Three battery cells can be arranged such that one battery cell is situated on the front side of a handle portion and that the remaining two battery cells are situated on the rear side thereof while being arranged laterally side by side. Also, a handle portion can be generally of a triangular cross-sectional configuration whose apex portion is situated on the front side of the handle portion and whose base portion is situated on the rear side thereof; and the handle portion is grasped by bringing fingertips into contact with the apex portion (11a) on the front side. |
| US08353356B2 |
Residential flat plate concealed sprinkler
A pendant sprinkler preferably includes a body having an inner surface defining a passageway. The passageway includes an inlet and an outlet spaced apart along the longitudinal axis and defines a K-factor of about 5. The sprinkler also includes a closure assembly adjacent the outlet to occlude the outlet and a thermally responsive support means for maintaining the closure assembly adjacent the outlet. Also provided are means for distributing a flow of fluid over a protection area ranging from about 144 square feet to about 400 square feet, the fluid distribution having a density of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2) so as to define a range of minimum operating pressures ranging from about seven pounds per square inch to about seventeen pounds per square inch (7-17 psi.) and a range of minimum operating fluid flows ranging from about thirteen gallons per minute to about twenty gallons per minute (13-20 gpm.). The sprinkler preferably includes a thermally responsive plate means for maintaining a minimum spacing between the outlet and the means for distributing. |
| US08353353B2 |
Surface controlled subsurface safety valve assembly with primary and secondary valves
A surface controlled subsurface safety valve assembly includes primary and secondary valves, such as an upper and lower flapper valve. Only one of the valves is in service at a time. In the event that the primary valve is compromised, and therefore leaks, the SCSSV is shifted to position the primary valve out of service and the secondary valve in service. The SCSSV may have more than two flappers, thereby providing multiple secondary valves, with only one valve in operation at any one time. |
| US08353351B2 |
System and method for regulating pressure within a well annulus
Pressure within a subsea well is managed as temperature within the well fluctuate. The management of the pressure mitigates stress to the structure of the well caused by the pressure. To manage the pressure, fluid is received from and/or provided to the well to reduce and/or increase pressure within the well. |
| US08353344B2 |
Fiber aggregate
Fiber aggregate comprising organic polymeric fibers, wherein the organic polymeric fibers have an average length in a range from 2 to 20 millimeters, an average diameter up to 100 micrometer, and comprise at least 75 percent by solid volume of the fiber aggregate, wherein the fiber aggregate has an unrestrained bulk density of at least 0.05 g/cm3, and wherein at least 85% by volume of the fiber aggregate disassociates to provide dispersed fibers. The fiber aggregates are useful, for example, for flowback control in wellbores and reservoirs. |
| US08353342B2 |
Steam generation for steam assisted oil recovery
Methods and apparatus relate to both generating steam for injection into a wellbore and capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) produced when generating the steam. A direct steam generator (DSG) makes the steam by contacting water with a combustion area for hydrogen and oxygen. Quantity of the steam made exceeds quantity of water input into the steam generator since the steam includes vaporized water resulting from combustion of the hydrogen and oxygen mixed with the water inputted and heated. Steam-methane-reforming or autothermal-reforming produces the hydrogen stripped of the CO2 prior to introduction into the steam generator. Further, an air separation unit supplies the oxygen to the steam generator. |
| US08353339B2 |
Apparatus for the measuring of fluid levels and pumping of the same
A device for employing sonic transmissions is utilized to determine fluid level in a well or a container. The device may be utilized while the well is operating. It is known that wells replenish fluid at different rates even in the same formation or well field. Increased well production at minimum pumping cost is achieved for a given well. The device generates a sonic event through the use of a compressed fluid that is obtained from within a well. A fluid level measurement system is obtained in a well in which gas is produced under vacuum. |
| US08353337B2 |
Method for cooling a rotating control head
A system and method for reducing repairs to radial seals used in a rotating control head used while drilling is disclosed. Also, a system and method to detect leaks in the rotating control head and a latching system to latch the rotating control head to a housing is disclosed. |
| US08353336B2 |
Power transmission system for use with downhole equipment
A power transmission system for use with downhole equipment in a borehole includes a power source that is positioned at the surface providing a DC power supply, a downhole DC/DC converter and a two-conductor cable connecting the power source and the downhole DC/DC converter. The power transmission system receives the DC voltage supply as an input and provides an output DC supply at a different voltage to the DC power supply for provision to the downhole equipment. |