| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08360704B2 |
Adhesive application apparatus and bookbinding apparatus
The present invention provides an adhesive application apparatus that forms a uniform application layer when applying an adhesive to a sheet bundle for a various a length or a width of the sheet bundle. The apparatus includes an applying operation controlling device including a reference value storing device for previously setting and storing a preset reference value of an application length and/or an application width of the sheet bundle, a size recognizing device for identifying an application length and/or an application width of the adhesive applied to the sheet bundle, and an application region comparing device for comparing an identified value of the application length and/or the application width of the adhesive applied to the sheet bundle from the size recognizing device with a preset reference value of the application length and/or the application width of the sheet bundle from the reference value storing device. |
| US08360701B2 |
Threaded fastener
A fastener includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end, a helical thread having a crest, a root, and flank portions formed on at least a portion of the elongated body, and at least one protrusion extending from the crest and flank portion. The at least one protrusion is an axially extending V-shape of the crest, flank portions, and root of the helical thread with a peak of the at least one protrusion having a ridge that extends radially outward from the root of the thread. |
| US08360699B2 |
Cutting tool assembly with an eccentric drive member
A cutting tool assembly having a tool holder and a cutting tool. The cutting tool has a shank that is matingly received within an axial bore in the lower end of the tool holder. The shank includes an eccentrically-shaped driver portion. The tool holder's axial bore includes an enlarged eccentrically-shaped drive opening which is complementary in shape to, but slightly larger than, the driver portion. When the shank is inserted into the axial bore, the driver portion and drive opening are aligned allowing the cutting tool to be partially rotated relative to the tool holder. This partial rotation abuts a portion of the eccentric driver portion against the drive opening wall to provide rigid support of the cutting tool against further rotation as the tool assembly cuts. A cammed fastener releasably interlocks the partially rotated cutting tool within the tool holder. |
| US08360694B2 |
Rotatable multi-operation tool for chip removing machining, and a basic body therefor
A rotatable multi-operation tool for chip removing machining, including a plurality of replaceable cutting inserts of different types, and a basic body that is rotatable around a center axis and includes a rear end and a front end from which there is extending rearward an envelope surface in which at least one chip space, delimited by two opposite side surfaces, is countersunk, which opens in the envelope surface and in the front end. A first cutting insert is mounted in a first insert seat that is formed in one side surface of the chip space and situated in the immediate vicinity of the front end and included in a cavity that opens in the front end for the cutting insert to partly protrude axially forward from the front end. A second cutting insert, of a type other than the first cutting insert, is mounted in a second insert seat, which is formed in the same side surface as the first insert seat and situated axially behind the first insert seat. The second insert seat is included in a cavity that opens in a part of the envelope surface. |
| US08360691B2 |
Plant for the controlled-speed pneumatic transport of granular material and conveyance speed control process
A plant for transport of granular material comprising container for granular material to be transported, receiver-meter group designed to receive granular material from container, conveyance duct of granular material from container to receiver-meter group, depressurization-pressurization means arranged to suction/inject a gaseous medium from/into container, and vacuum duct between receiver-meter group and depressurization-pressurization means, thereby creating a flow of granular material and gaseous medium in at least one conveyance duct or line directed to receiver-meter group and a flow of gaseous medium between receiver-meter group and depressurization-pressurization means, the plant comprising detection means of parameters of flow located in vacuum duct or line, adjusting means of the power of depressurization/pressurization means and electronic control means designed to receive in input control signals from speed detection means and to emit control signals in output for driving adjusting means. |
| US08360684B2 |
Method for linking segments and linking tool
A linking tool links segments for a rehabilitating pipe for rehabilitating an existing pipeline. The segment is integrally formed at least from an internal surface plate that constitutes the inner circumferential surface of the rehabilitating pipe, and side plates that have an insertion hole formed thereon and are disposed on both sides of the internal surface plate so as to extend in the circumferential direction of the rehabilitating pipe. The linking tool includes a tubular linking pin that is separable into pin halves and can be inserted into the insertion hole in the side plate of a first segment with a part of the linking pin remaining outside the first segment. The linking tool further includes a separating pin that can be inserted into the linking pin to separate the linking pin into the pin halves and press them against the first segment for anchoring thereto. The pin halves remaining outside the first segment are snap-fitted into a second segment through the insertion hole of the side plate thereof, thereby linking the first and second segments in the longitudinal direction of the rehabilitating pipe. Such a linking tool allows the segments to be efficiently linked in a short period of time. |
| US08360678B2 |
Crash barrier with over-pressure relief system
A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an external pressure relief valve. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the external pressure relief valve is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value. |
| US08360676B2 |
Shaft support structure for a vehicle
A shaft support structure for a vehicle, capable of enhancing a degree of freedom for setting an assembly process of a to-be-supported member without the necessity of a dedicated tool. A collar is screwed in an internally threaded hole of one of pivot plates attached to a body frame with the collar being tightened using cut grooves formed at one end thereof. A gap is formed between the pivot plates and a pivot pipe as a to-be-supported member is adjusted. The pivot pipe is supported by the body frame via the support bolt with a washer being provided on the seating surface of the head section of the support bolt in the pivot plate. The washer is provided with projecting portions to be engaged with the cut grooves of the collar and is formed with outer circumferential cut grooves to be engaged with a given rotary tool. |
| US08360675B2 |
Adjustable tab folder
Embodiments described herein relate to dividers and folders with tabs adjustable along at least two edges thereof. One embodiment is directed to a folder comprising a first panel, a second panel coupled to the first panel, at least one tab mating feature associated with the second panel, and a tab configured to mate with the at least one tab mating feature. The at least one tab mating feature is configured such that the tab is positionable in at least two positions along a first axis adjacent a first edge of the second panel and in at least two positions along a second axis adjacent a second edge of the second panel, wherein the first axis is transverse to the second axis. |
| US08360673B2 |
Dual-reservoir mascara applicator with dispersive product delivery
An applicator device, particularly suited for mascara, may deliver high or low viscosity liquids or semi-liquids, and contains a valve controlling flow between a product reservoir, an intermediate pooling area, and a product dispensing chamber. The arrangement prevents backflow to the product reservoir, precluding contamination of the product supply. Product delivery from the product dispensing chamber is from one of several methods. In one method, a plurality of prongs each comprise a conduit to the product dispensing chamber and thereby allow for dispersed product delivery from the prong tips. Alternatively, there may be one or more openings on the applicator head being interconnected to the dispensing chamber, which permits product to extrude between the rows of prongs and thereby be applied to a receiving surface. A third embodiment combines the two methods along with alternating height prongs to more effectively apply mascara onto all sides of a user's lashes. |
| US08360671B2 |
Leak-proof art instrument
Art instrument having a self-contained reservoir for storing and dispensing application liquid includes a reservoir body for containing the application liquid and a dispensing assembly that dispenses the application liquid from the reservoir. The dispensing assembly includes an applicator, a primary orifice restrictor including a channel, a movable actuating assembly that retains the applicator and the primary orifice restrictor and is movably connected to the reservoir body, and a secondary orifice restrictor arranged in an opening of the reservoir body and includes an initially closed channel. The instrument also includes a partly movable control mechanism that controls movement of the actuating assembly relative to the reservoir body. The control mechanism having a configuration in which it prevents opening of the closed channel and thereby prevents leakage of application liquid from the reservoir prior to manual activation by a user. |
| US08360669B2 |
Retractable electronic pen with sensing arrangement
An electronic pen comprises a retractable cartridge, a retraction mechanism for extending and retracting the cartridge, a button for actuating the retraction mechanism, a sensing arrangement for sensing a configuration of the pen, and a processor cooperating with the sensing arrangement. The processor is adapted to configure a state of the pen in response to input signals from the sensing arrangement. The sensing arrangement comprises a button sensor coupled to the button, which senses actuation of the button and a cartridge sensor for sensing whether the cartridge is extended or retracted. |
| US08360667B2 |
Printer
A printer that includes a cassette housing portion into which a tape cassette is detachably installed in a vertical direction, a feeding device that feeds the tape mounted in the tape cassette, a printing head that performs printing on the tape, a platen roller that is located facing the printing head, a roller holder that rotatably supports the platen roller, a mechanical sensor having a switch terminal that is capable of protruding and retracting, a sensor holder that holds the mechanical sensor between the shaft of the roller holder and the platen roller and that is capable of moving independently of the roller holder between a third position and a fourth position, and a determination device that determines the type of the tape based on protrusion and retraction of the switch terminal. |
| US08360666B2 |
Method for assembling camera module
A camera module includes a lens assembly and a baseboard assembly mounted on the lens assembly. The lens assembly includes a lens, a barrel receiving the lens, and a support receiving the barrel. The baseboard assembly includes a circuit board and an image sensor on the circuit board. The support defines a clamping recess at an outer surface thereof. |
| US08360660B2 |
Optical module
An optical module 10 include a substrate 11, a holding member 12 of resin that is secured to the substrate 11, has a pair of through holes 21 drilled through the substrate 11 in a direction orthogonal to the upper surface 11a, and the entire length L in the direction orthogonal to the upper surface 11a is at least 1.9 mm and less than 2.8 mm, and a pair of guide pins 13 that are inserted into the through holes 21 and secured to the holding member 12 by locking pieces 14, in which one end section of each of the guide pins 13 is held by the holding member 12 across the entire length L and the other end section to be inserted into one of guide pin insertion holes 32 of the MT connector 30 projects 2.8 mm or more from the holding member 12. This structure downsizes the optical module connected to an MT connector. |
| US08360658B2 |
Bearing
The invention relates to a bearing assembly, which includes at least one upper segment with an upper running surface and at least one lower segment with a lower running surface. The bearing assembly also includes at least one roll element movably arranged between the upper running surface and the lower running surface. |
| US08360650B2 |
Method for lubricating a rolling element bearing by means of an ultra low viscosity volatile fluid, and bearing arrangement
A method for lubricating a rolling element bearing by an ultra low viscosity volatile fluid comprises injecting a liquefied fluid flow into the bearing, lubricating rolling contacts between the rings and the rolling elements of the bearing by the liquefied fluid, providing a flow restriction for the liquefied fluid so as to maintain at least part of the fluid at a pressure which is above the evaporation pressure which is defined by evaporation of the fluid at the temperature or temperatures which prevail(s) in the bearing. |
| US08360646B2 |
Sludge and sediment removal system by remote access
A compound conduit containing inner and outer conduits with apertures in the former that are angled to direct jets of fluid in a rearward direction from the inner conduit into the annular space is used to draw sludge or undesirable material from a vessel without imposing a vacuum on the system. In conjunction with the compound conduit is a rotary tube seal that allows the conduit to be mounted to an orifice in a tank wall and pivoted or rotated over a range of angles. A tubing drive mechanism grasps the tubing at locations well removed from the distal end and causes the tubing to travel in the direction of the tubing axis. The gripping members in the mechanism engage the sides of the tubing and are capable of shifting position relative to each other to accommodate changes in the curvature of the tubing. |
| US08360645B2 |
Foil bearing
A foil bearing supports a cylindrical rotary shaft 2, the foil bearing including: a hollow cylindrical outer ring 4 which is supported by a stationary member, and surrounds the rotary shaft with a predetermined gap therebetween; a thin-film-shaped top foil 3a which surrounds the outer surface of the rotary shaft, and of which one circumferential end is fixed to the inner surface of the outer ring; and a back foil 3b which is formed by a thin film sandwiched between the top foil and the inner surface of the outer ring and elastically supporting the top foil. The back foil 3b includes a support portion which comes into contact with the inner surface of the outer ring and is immovable in the circumferential direction, and an elastic portion which is supported by the support portion and is elastically bent in the radial direction by surface pressure from the top foil. |
| US08360642B2 |
Super air permeability and reinforced seams of peanuts bag (APC BAG-SBA)
A ventilated bulk bag formed of a first fabric of interwoven yarns that define gaps therebetween to be air permeable, with a top panel formed of a second fabric of first yarns with a first cross-sectional shape and second yarns of a second cross-sectional shape interwoven in a second alliance to defines gaps adjacent the interwoven yarns, which gaps are apparent when viewed from an oblique angle relative to a plan view of the top panel, for keeping dust landing thereon from going through the gaps but allowing the top panel to ventilate air through the gaps. |
| US08360640B2 |
X-ray tube and method for examining a target by scanning with an electron beam
The invention relates to an X-ray tube, especially a microfocus X-ray tube (2), comprising means (18) for orienting an electron beam (10) towards a target (4). A control device (20) is used to control the means for orienting the electron beam (10) towards the target (4) in such a way that the electron beam (10) scans the target (4), in addition to a measuring device (22) for measuring the intensity of the target current which flows to different scanning sites when the target (4) is scanned by the electron beam (10), or a measuring variable dependent on the target current, and an evaluation device (24) for associating each measured value of the target flow with the corresponding scanning site. Said X-ray tube enables the easy and economical implementation of a method for checking the operability of the target (4). |
| US08360635B2 |
System and method for using one or more thermal sensor probes for flow analysis, flow assurance and pipe condition monitoring of a pipeline for flowing hydrocarbons
Embodiments of the present invention provide for a system and method for flow assurance and pipe condition monitoring in a pipeline for flowing hydrocarbons using at least one thermal sensor probe, which at least one thermal sensor probe may be used in conjunction with one or more other sensors to manage the sensing process and for data fusion to accurately determine flow properties and/or pipeline condition. By way of example, but not by way of limitation, in an embodiment of the present invention, a network of noninvasive sensors may provide output data that may be data-fused to determine properties of the pipeline and/or flow through the pipeline. |
| US08360634B2 |
Normal-to-flow thermostat design
A thermostat disposed to operate in a direction that is normal to the direction of flow of the fluid for which the thermostat regulates the temperature. In one embodiment, the thermostat comprises two mating faces, their movement being controlled either by the expansion or contraction of the carefully selected and apportioned materials in the thermostat pack or by a sensor-triggered controller in response to the temperature of the fluid to which the thermostat is exposed. The first type or Type 1 is normally closed, typically for use in liquid-cooled engines. The second type or Type 2 is normally open, typically for use in industrial applications, such as in solvent evaporation/recycle units where it is desirable to stop direct coolant flow into a paint gun cleaner or a similar equipment, when the temperature of the coolant reaches beyond a pre-determined upper limit. |
| US08360633B2 |
Device and method for determining the temperature inside an item to be cooked
The invention concerns a device for determining the temperature inside an item to be cooked (12). The invention comprises at least one temperature sensor (20) for detecting at least one surface temperature of the item to be cooked (12) and/or an ambient temperature around the item to be cooked, particularly at a measuring location inside the cooking chamber surrounding the item to be cooked, preferably with an ambient temperature sensor which is arranged at said measuring location. Furthermore, the device comprises at least one distance sensor (22) for detecting one or multiple distances between the distance sensor (22) and one or multiple distance measuring points (36) on the surface of the item to be cooked (12). In addition, the device comprises at least one time measuring device for measuring elapsed time during preparation of the item to be cooked (12) and at least one calculation device for calculating the temperature inside the item to be cooked (12) using the surface temperature of the item to be cooked (12) and/or the ambient temperature, the distance or multiple distances, elapsed time, and the start temperature of the item to be cooked (12). The invention also concerns a method for determining the temperature inside an item to be cooked (12). |
| US08360632B2 |
Thermal fatigue testing device and recording medium recorded with a program
A thermal fatigue testing device that includes a gas cooling component, a tube member, and a heat generating body is provided. The gas cooling component cools a blown gas to a predetermined temperature or less, and that is provided with a heat insulating member at an outer side surface thereof. The tube member has a gas flow path formed therein from a first end to a second end, is provided at an outer side surface thereof with a heat radiating portion from the second end to a first intermediate portion, and is connected with the gas cooling component at the first end side. A test body is arranged at the second end side. The heat generating body is provided in the gas flow path between the first end and a second intermediate portion and heats a gas flowing through the gas flow path. |
| US08360631B2 |
Method and apparatus for the preparation of a reconstituted food product
A method and apparatus are provided for producing a reconstituted food product. The apparatus includes a co-extruder 11 in which a gelling agent 70 and a setting agent 80 are co-extruded into a process stream of comminuted food pieces in a flow passage, with the gelling agent and setting agent being separated by the process stream. The apparatus includes a static mixer 10 of part cylindrical wall elements 22 with inwardly protruding mixer elements 24 in which the process stream, including the gelling agent and setting agent are mixed and the grain and texture of the food pieces altered to produce a reconstituted food product that resembles whole food. The apparatus includes a tenderiser 200 for pre-treating the comminuted food pieces by compressing them between a stationary plate 202 and a vibrating plate 206 in a tapering cavity. |
| US08360630B2 |
Mixing element for a static mixer and process for producing such a mixing element
The mixer insert (2) for a static mixer (1) extends in one longitudinal direction (L), the mixer insert (2) having a multitude of elements (2e) running transverse to the longitudinal direction (L) and at least two longitudinal supports (2f) running in longitudinal direction (L), and the static mixer insert (2) consisting of a multitude of base elements (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) arranged alongside one another in longitudinal direction (L), each base element (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) comprising a longitudinal support (2f), and the base elements (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) and their longitudinal supports (2f) being arranged relative to one another such that a longitudinal support (2f) running over the entire length of the mixer insert (2) is present, and base elements (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) arranged alongside one another are bonded to one another in a fixed manner at least via the longitudinal supports (2f). |
| US08360629B2 |
Mixing apparatus having central and planetary mixing elements
A mixing apparatus comprising: a) a mixing well characterized by an internal volume not exceeding 100 ml.; b) a drive mechanism including a stationary circumferential gear on an inner surface of the mixing well; and c) a planetary mixing element driven by a mixing element gear which engages the stationary circumferential gear. |
| US08360628B2 |
Marinating device
A marinating device includes a supporting base having a blocking sidewall, a food marinating container having a guiding rib and a container sidewall physically contacted with the blocking sidewall to block a sideward movement of said food marinating container at a first sideward direction, and an electric driving arrangement. The electric driving arrangement includes a driving unit and a plurality of driving rotors adapted to be driven by the driving unit to rotate. At least two corresponding driving rotors are frictionally and alignedly engaged with the guiding rib to block the sideward movement of the food marinating container at an opposed second sideward direction such that when the food marinating container is driven to rotate via the driving rotors, the food marinating container is securely retained on the supporting base. |
| US08360624B2 |
Vehicle headlamp
A vehicle headlamp includes a light emitting device disposed adjacent to a base point on an optical axis extending in a front-rear direction of the vehicle headlamp, and a transparent member disposed in front of the light emitting device. The light emitting device has a light emitting surface arranged to face forward. The transparent member is configured such that light emitted by the light emitting device enters the transparent member and is internally reflected by a front surface of the transparent member, and such that the light reflected by the front surface is internally reflected again by a rear surface of the transparent member and emitted from the front surface of the transparent member. The rear surface of the transparent member is configured to form horizontal and oblique cutoff lines. |
| US08360623B2 |
Side-illuminating light guide device for a vehicle
A lighting device for a vehicle includes a light conducting rod, at least one light source, at least one first reflecting part, and at least one second reflecting part. The light source is connected to at least one end of the light conducting rod. The first reflecting part and the second reflecting part are located on the light conducting rod and respectively have a reflecting surface toward the light source. A first distance between the first reflecting part and the light source is less than a second distance between the second reflecting part and the light source, and the curvature of the reflecting surface of the second reflecting part is greater than the curvature of the reflecting surface of the first reflecting part. |
| US08360621B2 |
Lighting fixture having multiple degrees of rotation
A lighting fixture has a modular design. A plurality of interconnecting components fit together to impart to the lighting fixture multiple degrees of rotation. This enables the installer or user to effectively move, change, or adjust the area of illumination over time without constraints. A lamp housing is supported by a plurality of tubular arms that have a threaded connection at one end and a slip-fit connection at the other end. These connections enable the arms to be rotated independently of each other. The result is a lighting fixture having multiple degrees of rotation. An enclosed path through the tubular arms and a hinge leads from a J-box to the lamp housing. The enclosed path accommodates electrical wiring to power the lighting fixture, while the hinge enables the lamp housing to rotate about an axis parallel to the mounting surface. |
| US08360620B1 |
LED direct and indirect recessed lighting fixture with center diffuser lens basket and parallel reflectors, including rapid access doors to the fixture drivers and emergency battery pack
An LED recessed lighting fixture which includes a multiplicity of LED boards which have a multiplicity of LEDs thereon, the LED boards affixed to a heat sink to dissipate the heat generated from the LEDs. The LED boards are shrouded by a diffuser so that light from the LEDs shining through the diffuser mimics a fluorescent light. The fixture incorporates at least one reflector into the fixture so that some of the illumination from the LEDs will be reflected off the reflector after it has passed through the diffuser. An access door in the top of the fixture so that access to a driver retained within the fixtures can be provided from the top of the fixture. An access door in the top of the fixture so that access to an emergency battery retained within the fixture can be provided from the top of the fixture. |
| US08360617B2 |
Lighting system including LED with glass-coated quantum-dots
A lighting system includes at least one light emitting diode and a coating of matrix material having at least one glass-coated quantum dot in a base material. The at least one glass-coated quantum dot may be selected from at least one of a group II-VI materials, III-V materials, IV-VI materials, I-III-VI materials and combinations of such materials. The matrix material may be silicone, and the lighting system may include a light bulb replacement fixture including a threaded screw electrically connected to the light emitting diode. |
| US08360611B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device comprising: a shell, a plurality of luminophors, a first slideway and a second slideway. The plurality of luminophors is set in an external surface of the shell. The first slideway and the second slideway each of which comprise an up peristome and a down peristome respectively. A plurality of trigger switches is set in the first slideway. Each of which is configured for connecting/disconnecting a first circuit, so as to turn on/off the one or more luminophors. A ball is located movable along the slideways. A launching device is set in a bottom of the second slideway and is configured for driving the ball to move. A controlling unit is configured for connecting/disconnecting a second circuit, so as to connect/disconnect a power supply, which supplies power for the lighting device via the first circuit. |
| US08360608B2 |
Illuminating system of flexible shape
Disclosed is an illuminating system of flexible shape and comprising at least one LED disposed on a flexible carrier material, an optic being provided that permits uniform, directed and/or glare-free light emission. |
| US08360607B2 |
Lighting unit with heat-dissipating chimney
The invention provides systems and methods for providing illumination. A lighting unit may have a support structure, and one or more light emitting elements supported by a circuit board contacting the support structure. A first optical element and a second optical element may be provided. A remote luminescent material may be provided on one or more optical elements. Light emitting elements configured to excite the luminescent material such as highly efficient light emitting diodes may be directed towards the luminescent material. The support structure may be a heat dissipating element, which may conduct heat from a heat source to a surface of the support structure. The heat dissipating element may have a passageway permitting the formation of a convection path to dissipate heat from the support structure. Such lighting units may be used to replace conventional fluorescent light tubes or other lighting devices, or may be provided as standalone lighting units. |
| US08360603B2 |
Lighting fixture using semiconductor coupled with a reflector having a reflective surface with a phosphor material
To improve semiconductor-based systems for generating white light, a phosphor is integrated with an external structure, such as a reflector. A disclosed exemplary system, for illumination applications, utilizes one or more semiconductor devices for emitting radiant energy of a first wavelength. A reflector outside the package of the LED or other semiconductor device has a reflective surface arranged to receive radiant energy from the energy source. At least some of the received radiant energy of the first wavelength excites one or more phosphors associated with an external light processing element, for example, located along the surface of the reflector, to emit light, including visible light energy of at least one second wavelength different from the first wavelength. In the examples, at least some of visible light emitted by the phosphor is reflected by the reflective surface of the reflector and directed to facilitate the particular humanly perceptible luminance or illumination application. |
| US08360601B2 |
LED module
An LED module includes a carrier and a number of light sources. Each light source is arranged on the carrier in such a way that the LED module comprises a radiation uniformity which is less than the statistical mean of a radiation uniformity distribution, wherein the radiation uniformity distribution is based on a plurality of LED modules with a random arrangement of the light sources. |
| US08360600B2 |
Electronic illuminating device
An electronic illuminating device includes an illuminating area, a routing area and a control area. The illuminating area includes multiple light-emitting blocks and multiple illuminating area power-supply lines. Each the light-emitting block employs at least one light-emitting element as light source, and further is electrically coupled to a corresponding one of the illuminating area power-supply lines. The routing area includes multiple routing area power-supply lines, and each the routing area power-supply line is electrically coupled to a corresponding one of the illuminating area power-supply lines. The control area provides powers to the routing area power-supply lines. A width of at least one of the illuminating area power-supply lines and the corresponding routing area power-supply line or a length of at least one of the routing area power-supply lines is adjusted, such that differences among resistances between the light-emitting blocks and the control area are within 20%. |
| US08360595B2 |
Light-guiding structure of translucent press key
The present invention discloses a light-guiding structure of a translucent press key including a keypad region including a circular hollow area, and a diffuser and a light source module sequentially disposed below the keypad region. The light source module includes a reflective film and a light generating unit, in which the reflective film has a through hole formed at a position opposite to the middle of the circular hollow area, and the light generating unit is coupled to a control circuit of the keypad region and generates a light source to pass through the through hole. The light-guiding structure of a translucent press key of the present invention has the advantages of a low cost and highly uniform light distribution. |
| US08360588B2 |
Pillar light emitting module
A pillar light emitting module including a light guide bar, a first sleeve, a second sleeve, at least two light sources and a plurality of first diffusion structures is provided. The light guide bar has a first end and a second end corresponding to the first end. The first sleeve holds the first end of the light guide bar and has a first bottom surface. The second sleeve holds the second end of the light guide bar and has a second bottom surface. Two light sources are respectively face the first end and the second end respectively and disposed adjacent to the first bottom surface and the second bottom surface respectively for emitting light to enter the light guide bar. The first diffusion structures are disposed on the first bottom surface and the second bottom surface respectively for guiding the light to the light guide bar. |
| US08360586B2 |
Retroreflective film containing a polymeric face film and method of manufacture therefore
In one aspect, there is provided a retroreflective film, comprising a retroreflective sub-structure, and a transparent polymeric film, having a surface roughness profile where the Arithmetic Mean Deviation of the Roughness Profile (Ra) ranges from about 0.18 microns to about 1.30 microns and where the Mean Spacing of Local Peaks (R-S) in the printing direction ranges from about 10 microns to about 85 microns, located over and coupled to the retroreflective sub-structure and wherein the polymeric film as a Vicat softening point of about 90° or greater. |
| US08360585B2 |
Method of measuring zoom ratio of projection optical system, method of correcting projection image using the method, and projector executing the correction method
A method of measuring a zoom ratio of a projection optical system adapted to project image light representing an original image on a projection screen, the method includes: (a) projecting and displaying a measuring image including a measurement point on the projection screen so that the measurement point is displayed at a position with an offset from an optical axis of the projection optical system; (b) detecting a projected measurement point, which is the measurement point projected and displayed on the projection screen, from a measurement point detection position having a fixed position relative to the projection optical system; and (c) determining the zoom ratio using position information of the detected projected measurement point and correspondence between the position information and the zoom ratio, the correspondence being prepared previously. |
| US08360584B2 |
Projector
A projector includes: an optical system includes a light source, a light modulation element for modulating light emitted from the light source to form an optical image, and a projection lens for projecting the optical image, the optical system is structured such that an illumination optical axis of the light source and a projection optical axis of the projection lens cross each other substantially at right angles in the plan view; and a cooling fan configured to the light modulation element, and has a rotation axis crossing each other substantially at right angles with a discharge direction where a cooling air is discharged, the cooling fan is disposed in the vicinity of the projection lens and on the side where the light source is provided such that the rotation axis extends in the thickness direction of the projector. |
| US08360583B2 |
Image display device with exit pupil moving for tracking viewer's pupil
An image display device for optically displaying an image is disclosed. This device includes: a light source; an imaging-light generator converting light emitted from the light source, into imaging light representative of the image to be displayed to a viewer, to thereby generate the imaging light; and an exit-pupil controlling unit configured to control a position of an exit pupil of the image display device. The exit-pupil controlling unit includes: an electrically controllable element configured to diffract the imaging light incoming from the imaging-light generator, at an electrically-variable diffraction angle; and a controller configured to electrically control the diffraction angle of diffracted light emitted from the electrically controllable element, to thereby control the position of the exit pupil. |
| US08360574B2 |
High performance selective light wavelength filtering providing improved contrast sensitivity
The present invention relates to ophthalmic systems comprising a selective light wavelength filter, wherein said selective filter provides improved contrast sensitivity. |
| US08360556B2 |
Wiring board and liquid jetting head
A wiring board to be connected to an object includes: contact points to be connected to the object; wires connected to the contact points; and a substrate on which the contact points and the wires are formed. The substrate has a first portion which has openings and overlaps with the object when the wiring board is connected to the object, and a second portion which is continuous to the first portion. The contact points include first contact points formed in the first portion on one surface of the substrate facing the object, and second contact points formed in the second portion, on the other surface of the substrate, at areas which do not overlap with the first contact points when the substrate is bent so that the first portion is overlapped with the second portion. |
| US08360555B2 |
Cradle unit for printhead cartridge having movable connectors
A cradle unit for a printhead cartridge is provided having a support bay for removably receiving the printhead cartridge, and an interface mounted on a slanted face within the support bay, the interface comprising connections which are movably tilted on said slanted face so as to be exposed within the support bay for connection with connections of the printhead cartridge when received in the support bay. The connections of the interface connect the printhead cartridge with a power supply which is remote from the interface. |
| US08360554B2 |
Modular encoder
A modular encoder has been developed that can be mounted to a motor shaft without requiring time consuming alignment or special tools. The encoder includes a base having an annular opening, the base including a plurality of resilient arms surrounding the annular opening with each arm having a terminal end that extends into the annular opening, and a hub having a horizontal flange with a top and a bottom surface and a generally vertical wall extending from the bottom surface of the horizontal flange, the wall is configured to fit within the annular opening of the base and is circumscribed with a groove for receiving the terminal ends of the resilient arms to secure the hub to the base and enable rotation of the hub within the annular opening of the base as the terminal ends of the resilient arms slide within the groove. |
| US08360551B2 |
Ink-jet recording apparatus, recording method, and flushing method
An ink-jet recording apparatus includes an ink-jet recording head having a nozzle from which ink is ejected on the basis of print data, an ink-receiving unit that receives the ink ejected from the nozzle, and a surface-tension-depressant-solution supplying unit that supplies a liquid composition containing a surface tension depressant to the ink-receiving unit when the ink is ejected from the nozzle into the ink-receiving unit. |
| US08360550B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus and maintenance method
A fluid ejecting apparatus including: a fluid ejection head configured to eject fluid from a plurality of nozzles; a medium supporting member configured to support a medium at a position opposing the fluid ejection head, a thread-type fluid absorbing member configured to absorb the fluid ejected from the nozzles; and a moving mechanism configured to cause the fluid absorbing member to move between a first position opposing the nozzles between the fluid ejection head and the medium supporting member and a second position farther from a nozzle surface of the fluid ejection head than a transporting area of the medium, wherein the fluid is ejected from the nozzles to the fluid absorbing member at the first position. |
| US08360549B2 |
Inkjet image forming apparatus and spitting method therefor
An inkjet image forming apparatus and a spitting method therefor. The inkjet image forming apparatus includes: a printhead including a plurality of nozzles arranged across a printing medium transfer path; a maintenance unit including a spitting groove to receive ink ejected during a spitting operation of the printhead; and a controlling unit to control the printhead so that spitting is performed by groups of the nozzles, when each group faces the spitting groove. |
| US08360548B2 |
Printhead maintenance assembly for inkjet printer
A printhead maintenance assembly for an inkjet printer includes a movable chassis arranged in a housing; an endless belt mounted on the chassis, the endless belt having a contact surface reciprocally movable between a first position in which the contact surface is engaged with the printhead and a second position in which the contact surface is disengaged from the printhead; a pair of spools mounted on the chassis and on which the belt is mounted, one of the spools being a toothed drive spool and the other being an idler spool; a drive gear driven by a drive motor and engaged with the drive spool, the drive gear, the drive spool, and the drive motor forming a conveyor mechanism for conveying the belt in a direction substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the printhead; and a cleaning station mounted on the chassis and positioned to clean the belt as the belt moves past. The contact surface is sloped with respect to the printhead. |
| US08360541B2 |
Reusable paper media with compatibility markings and printer with incompatible media sensor
A reusable image forming medium, including a substrate; an imaging layer coated on or impregnated into the substrate, wherein an irradiation of the imaging layer produces an image; and a signature material coated on or impregnated into the substrate or the imaging layer, the signature material being detectable by a sensor. |
| US08360540B2 |
Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus of the present invention includes: a recording head having ejection openings which eject liquid, a liquid supply unit which supplies the liquid to the recording head, and a supply control unit which controls the liquid supply unit. The recording head includes: a liquid supply portion and first and second discharge portions; a first passage connecting the supply portion and the first discharge portion; a second passage which branches off from the first passage and communicates with the second discharge portion; a supply passage which branches off from the second passage and which supplies the liquid to the ejection openings; and a first filter disposed nearby a position at which the second passage branches off from the first passage, which filtrates the liquid flowing from the first passage to the second passage. |
| US08360539B2 |
Drawer assembly
A drawer assembly is provided for an enclosure which includes a first interior surface and a second interior surface which are opposite one another. The drawer assembly includes a drawer, a first rack, a second rack, a first linear motion element and a second linear motion element. The drawer is configured to be insertable in the enclosure. The first rack and the second rack are mounted respectively near the first interior surface and the second interior surface. The first linear motion element and the second linear motion element are mounted respectively near the first interior surface and the second interior surface. Each of the linear motion elements is configured to enable movement of the drawer in and out of the enclosure. Each of the linear motion elements includes a pinion configured to rotate along a corresponding rack as the drawer is moved in and out of the enclosure. |
| US08360538B2 |
Toolbox with elevating display backwall
A toolbox with drawers for holding tools and the like and a display rack for holding and displaying such tools. The display rack is movable vertically relative to the toolbox and may assume a first tool accessible and tool visible position and a second position where the tools are not accessible and are not visible. A locking mechanism maintains the inaccessible tool position of the display rack. Preloaded struts operate to extend the display rack to its tool accessible and tool visible condition when the retaining force on the display rack is released. A retaining mechanism is used to hold the display rack in its elevated position. |
| US08360535B2 |
Sound reducing segmented idler for track-type vehicles
An idler having an axis of rotation. The idler may include a hub with a flange. A plurality of rim members are positioned along a perimeter of the flange and have generally axially facing, opposite side surfaces. At least one of the side surfaces has a first interlocking formation. A clamping plate is connected to the flange. The clamping plate has a second interlocking formation coupled with the first interlocking formation. A dampening member interposes the first and second interlocking formations. |
| US08360534B2 |
Sealing assembly and hinge of track having the sealing assembly
A sealing assembly for sealing a lubrication chamber defined at least in part by two pivotable track link portions is provided. The sealing assembly includes a sealing ring having an annular sealing edge sealingly abutting on an end surface of one of the portions and an elastic ring permanently abutting on the other of the portions and applying pressure to the sealing ring, the elastic ring having an axially-projecting, hollow cylinder-like sealing lip, which radially encloses the sealing ring in the region of a sealing edge and sealingly abuts on the end surface when two track link portions axially shift towards each other. A support ring is disposed between the sealing ring and the elastic ring. |
| US08360532B2 |
Brake control system
A brake control system for a vehicle includes a first controller having a first brake operation quantity sensor and a second controller executing a different control from that of the first controller and having a second operation quantity sensor. The second controller may include a master pressure acquisition unit for acquiring a master pressure and a failure detection unit for detecting a failure of the first controller on the basis of the brake operation quantity detected by the second brake operation quantity sensor and the master pressure acquired by the master pressure acquisition unit. |
| US08360526B2 |
Seat reclining apparatus for vehicle
A seat reclining apparatus includes a base member; a pivot member having an internal tooth gear; a cylindrical holder covering the outer circumference surface of the pivot member; a lock tooth having an external tooth gear arranged to be engaged with the internal tooth gear; and a cam arranged to push the lock tooth to engage or disengage the external tooth gear with or from the internal tooth gear; the pivot member including a bearing inner circumference surface located on the circular recessed portion, on the base member's side of the internal tooth gear in the axial direction, the base member including a circular support outer circumference surface on which the bearing inner circumference surface is slid, and the bearing inner circumference surface and the support outer circumference surface being arranged to position the pivot member relative to the base member in the radial direction. |
| US08360523B2 |
Adjusting device for a lumbar support and method of adjusting a lumbar support
An adjusting device for a lumbar support comprises a pair of spaced guide members, an adjusting member coupled to the pair of guide members, and a drive mechanism for effecting an adjustment of the lumbar support. The adjusting member is displaceable along the pair of guide members and configured such that the lumbar support is adjusted when the adjusting member is displaced. The drive mechanism comprises a motor, which is provided on the adjusting member so as to be displaceable along the guide members jointly with the adjusting member. The motor may be coupled to a shaft having a structured exterior surface, the drive mechanism being configured to effect a relative displacement between the adjusting member and the shaft. |
| US08360520B2 |
Anti-whiplash backdrive system
The present invention relates to an anti-whiplash system for the use in vehicle seats. The inventive anti-whiplash system for the use in vehicle seats comprises a head restraint (1) mounted on the backrest of a vehicle seat, wherein the head restraint (1) comprises a release mechanism for reducing the gap between an occupant's head and the head restraint in case of an accident, said release mechanism comprises a movable part (5) and a stationary part (3), wherein a clearance between the movable part (5) and the stationary part (3) opens up when the release mechanism is released, characterized in that a wedging body (4) is provided having a small width portion and a large width portion and an intermediate increasing width portion, wherein the wedging body (4) points with its small width portion towards the clearance between the movable part (5) and the stationary part (3), and in that the wedging body (4) is movable and preloaded to move into the clearance as it opens up to thereby abut against the movable part (5) and against the stationary part (3) in order to prevent the movable part (5) of the head restraint (1) from moving back. |
| US08360518B2 |
Wheelchair lift assist mechanism
A wheelchair lift assist mechanism (10) is provided that includes a structure having a seat portion (18) and comprised of a seat (20) inter-connected with a tube (22) a bar (24) and bracket (30) fastened by bolts (28) joined to a handle (26) and attachable to a wheelchair (12). The mechanism (10) capable of supporting and boosting a patient (14) to a standing position by an assistant (16). |
| US08360517B2 |
Automotive vehicle seat insert
There is disclosed an insert suitable for use within a seating system of an automotive vehicle. |
| US08360515B2 |
Recliner ottoman linkage with unique secondary ottoman
Extendable ottoman linkages supporting both a main and secondary ottoman, as well as high-leg, space-saving recliners for which such linkages are designed, are provided. The extendable ottoman linkages provide sufficient clearance for a secondary ottoman to extend by arranging the components of the linkage such that the extension of the secondary ottoman is delayed until the main ottoman has extended sufficiently to provide the necessary clearance. The extendable ottoman linkages further hold the secondary ottoman securely in a closed position when the furniture is in a closed position. |
| US08360514B2 |
High chair folding device and high chair thereof
A folding device is configured at the bottom of rear leg frame and at the pivot between the rear leg frame and front leg frame of a high chair. The folding device allows a user to complete folding process by pressing a button at the bottom of the rear leg frame. When the button is pressed, a rotator in the housing of the folding device rotates correspondingly and drags connected steel wires to move horizontally inward. The other ends of the steel wires further connect to engaging parts at the pivots and engaging between the front leg frame and the rear leg frame and retract the engaging parts so that the rear leg frame disengages from and pivots about the front leg frame. The high chair may be folded with one-foot operation. |
| US08360511B2 |
Body and container for transport of construction sand and gravel mining, and fabricating method
A folded hopper for a mining truck, having a floor made of an anti-abrasive material that increases its resistance and simplifies manufacturing work, bringing up substantial savings of welding and being of low weight, and improving load distribution. The floor includes floor folds with anti-abrasive, side folding that eliminates welding at joints and floor, which improves mechanical resistance and eliminates stress arising from heat concentration upon welding. At the sides, the reinforcement on several beams is simplified by two larger joining beams that keep the structure rigid. |
| US08360510B2 |
Rear-mounted aerodynamic structure for truck cargo bodies
This invention provides an aerodynamic structure attached to the rear cargo body, having doors that swing open, or a single, full-width door, which rolls upwardly. The embodiments provide an aerodynamic structure attached to the rear in a manner that would obscure access to the door(s) in a deployed position, in which the structure reduces drag, yet enables access to the door(s) in a folded position. The folded position allows access to the rear for loading and unloading, and in the case of swinging, hinged doors, allows the doors to be folded through a 270-degree arc, with a minimal sideways projection. The various embodiments also enable relatively rapid and easy transition between the folded position and the deployed position using actuators and/or linkages that tie the folding and deployment of panels of the structure together. This allows selective folding and deployment of the structure without undue effort or strength. |
| US08360507B2 |
Apparatus for reducing drag on a vehicle
An apparatus for reducing drag on a moving vehicle includes various combinations of a movable segments and a swing arm. Each combination is adapted to be mounted to the rear of the vehicle with a fixed portion being positioned forward of the movable segment upon extraction. The movable segments have a retracted position and an extended position and may be biased to the retracted position. The movable segments deploy to the extended position when moving above a predetermined velocity and returns to a retracted position when moving below the predetermined velocity. |
| US08360506B2 |
Travel trailer
A travel trailer has a trailer body, including a front cap. The cap defines a recess in the front portion thereof. A recess cover is pivotally secured to said front cap for covering said recess. The cover is movable between a closed position, in which said recess is covered, and an open position, in which said recess is accessible. One or more liquid propane tanks are provided in the recess. The liquid propane tanks are covered when the recess cover is in the closed position and accessible when said recess cover is in the open position. |
| US08360505B2 |
Vehicle door opening device
A door is open and held by engaging a latch with a striker of a vehicle body. The door has a release actuator connected to the latch. The vehicle body includes a power drive and a control module. An operating unit instructs the control module to close the door. The control module instructs the release actuator to disengage the latch from the striker. After the control module instructs the power drive to start closing of the door, releasing of the release actuator is stopped by the control module at a door position determined by actual voltage of a power source. |
| US08360496B2 |
Folding seat system
A folding seat system for use with a vehicle includes, but is not limited to, a seat body including a seat bottom and a seat back. The seat back is rotatably mounted to the seat bottom such that the seat back can be folded over the seat bottom. A hinge is connected to the seat body and is configured to attach to the vehicle. The hinge is further configured to permit the seat body to rotate approximately 180° in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle between a forward position, an intermediate position, and a storage position when the seat back is folded over the seat bottom. A biasing member biases the seat body towards the storage position when the seat body is in the forward position. |
| US08360493B2 |
Pillar cover with fixedly allotted cover lip
The invention relates to a pillar finisher which is arranged to visually conceal regions of a vehicle body and with its outer exposed surfaces to be involved in forming the external appearance of a vehicle, wherein the pillar finisher in the intended final installed state forms a mount for a functional seal, in particular a window drop seal. To prevent a malposition of the functional seal relative to the pillar finisher from having negative effects with regard to the function of the seal or the quality impression of the mounted assembly, provision is made that a covering lip, functionally separate from the position of the functional seal, is fixedly associated with the pillar finisher on the edge side. |
| US08360492B2 |
Changeable gripping element for transporting containers
A gripping apparatus for gripping containers may comprise a gripping element which has two gripping parts that can move relative to one another and a carrier on which the gripping parts are arranged. At least one portion of the container to be gripped can be received between these gripping parts. The gripping apparatus may comprise a detachment mechanism for detaching the gripping parts from the carrier, wherein this detachment mechanism can be actuated manually and without the aid of a tool in order to detach the gripping parts from the carrier. |
| US08360491B2 |
Substrate pick
Disclosed is a method for handling devices, such as reticles, in a semiconductor manufacturing environment. In one illustrative embodiment, the method includes: providing a pick comprised of a plurality of spaced-apart grippers with a pivot point between the gripper about which point the spaced-apart grippers are configured to pivot; creating a vacuum in a body proximate to the pivot point, wherein the vacuum is configured to draw particles generated in the area of the pivot into the body; and generating a magnetic force between magnets, wherein the magnetic force drives at least one gripper toward another gripper to grasp a semiconducting substrate or a reticle between the grippers. |
| US08360490B2 |
Bumper crossbeam as component of a bumper of a motor vehicle
A bumper crossbeam for a motor vehicle includes an outer section configured as a roll-formed hollow profile which is closed at least in some areas. At least one inner section, configured as a separate component, is arranged in the outer section and connected to the outer section. The inner section has at least one wall extending from a front section zone of the outer section to a rear section zone of the outer section. |
| US08360488B2 |
Removable pull cover
An example pull assembly includes a knob that defines an axis and a cover moveable between an installed position adjacent the knob and an uninstalled position further from the knob than the installed position. A magnet holds the cover in the installed position. A cam extends from the cover, the knob, or both. The cam urges the cover from the installed position to the uninstalled position when the cover is rotated relative the knob about the axis. |
| US08360487B2 |
Latch assembly, over-center reverse draw
A latch assembly includes a housing having a cavity between first and second end walls. The housing includes first and second journal members and first and second swing arm apertures at the second end wall. A swing arm member having a joining end is positioned within the cavity having first and second swing arms connected to the joining end having portions extending freely through the first and second swing arm apertures. A keeper/catch member is rotatably connected to the first and second journal members. Keeper/catch member rotation from an orientation rotated away from a longitudinal axis defined by a portion of the first and second swing arms extending through the swing arm apertures to an orientation approximately parallel with the longitudinal axis creates an over-center locking condition for the housing and a pushing force acting through the keeper/catch member to push a first component into contact with a second component. |
| US08360481B2 |
Housing type pipe joint
A housing pipe joint (1) for connecting a pair of pipes comprising: a pair of housings (3) each including a housing body (4) and a flange portion (5); fitting portions (4a) located in parallel on an inner surface of the housing body to fit with the pipes (P), each fitting portion including one stepped section (4a3) angled diagonally relative to the center axis line (C); and a positioning member (6) on opposed surfaces of the flange portion, the positioning member engaging with the other positioning member to position the housings at a first or a second position when one housing is rotated on a plane about a symmetric point (Sy); at the first position the distance between the opposed fitting portions is the closest and the pipes are movably coupled; and at the second position the distance is the largest and the pipes are fixedly coupled to the housings. |
| US08360480B2 |
Blender jar interlock
A collar assembly for coupling a blade assembly and a removable jar to the base of a motorized blender includes an interlock assembly that prevents coupling of the blade assembly to the blender motor unless the jar is secured to the collar assembly, and prevents removal of the jar from the collar assembly when the collar and blade assembly is coupled to the blender base. |
| US08360469B2 |
Airbag system
An occupant restraint apparatus for a motor vehicle that includes a cushion configured to inflate to provide restraint to an occupant of the vehicle, wherein the cushion includes an inflatable portion and at least one non-inflatable portion; an inflator configured to provide gas for inflating the inflatable portion of the cushion; and a tether having a first end connected to the cushion and a second anchored end. The cushion includes at least one opening in at least one of the non-inflatable portions and the tether passes through the opening. |
| US08360467B2 |
Head-protecting airbag apparatus
A head-protecting airbag apparatus includes an inflated airbag with a rear inflatable portion covering the vicinity of a rear window of a vehicle, and a gas supply passage that inflates the rear portion. The rear inflatable portion includes a main body portion and an inlet inflatable portion, with a belt-shaped closing portion that partitions the two. The upper communication port and the lower communication port of the belt-shaped closing portion allow the inflation gas to flow from the inlet inflatable portion to the inflatable main body. In both communication ports, the opening area of the lower communication port is larger than the opening area of the upper communication port so that the airbag inflates via the lower communication port upon normal inflation of the airbag, and then inflates via the upper communication port upon abnormal inflation when the lower communication port is obstructed. |
| US08360461B2 |
Foldable stroller
A foldable stroller that moves between an extended position and stowed position, and which comprises a seat portion, a back, at least three legs, and a rear linkage including at least one rear leg, a front linkage including at least one front leg, a back linkage including at least one back mount and a seat portion mounting and when moving the stroller from the extended position to the stowed position, the lower end of the back leg tilts forward the lower end of the front leg tilts backward, the back is folded against the seat portion, the upper edge of the back coming opposite the front end of the seat portion mounting and the upper end of the front leg. |
| US08360457B2 |
Trailer steering mechanism
The trailer steering mechanism automatically steers the trailer wheels in accordance with the tow vehicle steering and articulation between the tow vehicle and trailer during backing maneuvers to facilitate backing maneuvers and to prevent or greatly reduce the possibility of jackknifing between tow vehicle and trailer. The mechanism includes a pivotally attached steering frame connected between the steerable wheels of the trailer and one or more hydraulic cylinders that, when locked, create a very strong link between the tow vehicle and the trailer and its steering system. An alternative embodiment employs two non-powered hydraulic cylinders in tandem. The cylinders are able to withstand great loads, and more importantly, are able to disengage while under great load without jamming. The cylinders provide links that exert lateral force to the trailer to push or pull the trailer into a turn while backing, in addition to controlling the steering mechanism of the trailer. |
| US08360449B2 |
Suspension assemblies and systems for land vehicles
A suspension assembly for a land vehicle comprises a spindle defining a steering axis for the land vehicle and configured to pivotably couple to a ground contact; an upper pivotable member having an inboard end configured to pivotably couple to the land vehicle and an outboard end pivotably coupled to the spindle; a lower pivotable member having an inboard end configured to pivotably couple to the land vehicle and an outboard end pivotably coupled to the spindle; a resilient member having an upper end configured to pivotably couple to the land vehicle and a lower end pivotably coupled to the spindle; a caster adjustment mechanism adjusting the position of one of the upper pivotable member and lower pivotable member relative to the spindle to thereby adjust caster; and a camber adjustment mechanism adjusting the position of one of the upper pivotable member and lower pivotable member relative to the spindle to thereby adjust camber. |
| US08360447B2 |
Airline cart
A cart for distributing for instance food in aisles of airplanes is described. The cart comprises a cabinet-shaped body (10) as well as a door (20) coupled hingedly to the body, capable of being closed by means of a lock system (100). The lock system is a multipoint lock system (100), wherein a bolting of the door with respect to the body is accomplished at a plurality of positions along a free vertical side edge (23) of the door. |
| US08360446B1 |
Wheeled firearms transport case
A wheeled firearms transport case having an interior compartment having a locking lid and a locking access door for access to rifles stored therein, locking drawers with removable cushioned inserts for the storage of handguns, ammunition, and rifle scopes, and a plurality of removable cushioned inserts disposed on the left side of the case for the storage of firearm accessories with a locking access door. A cushioned rifle butt cradle member, a rubber guide support, and a hook and loop strap are disposed within the interior compartment to secure each rifle within the interior compartment. |
| US08360443B2 |
Pallet jack system and method for the transportation of stackable packaged goods pallets
A pallet jack is disclosed that comprises a left tine and a right tine. The pallet jack includes a lifting mechanism that may include an electrically powered hydraulic pump to effectuate the lifting motion. The pallet jack may also include power-driven wheels that are connected by an axle, thereby facilitating translational motion of the pallet jack. The wheels may be maximally spaced by using a maximum-length axle that is slightly longer than the width of the pallet jack body, thereby optimizing load stability. |
| US08360441B2 |
Grocery cart cup holder
The grocery cart cup holder a front, middle, and rear frame. The front frame has along an outer end a plurality of front clips, which are used to secure the front frame onto the shopping cart seat frame. The middle frame has at least one circular opening, and is hingedly connected to both the front frame and rear frame. The rear frame has at least one back clip that attaches onto the shopping cart seat frame. The grocery cart cup holder can fold flat to enable use of the grocery cart seat, and the cup holder can fold up to provide a cup holder that consists of the circular opening at an elevated position working in tandem with the grocery cart seat to create a cup holder. |
| US08360438B2 |
Seal
A seal (500) comprises a seal body (502) having a mounting portion (504), a first leg (506) and a second leg (508), a first stiffening member (514) and a second stiffening member (516) separated by an arcuate shear seal portion (529) in which the motions of the first leg (506) and second leg (508) are relatively constrained by the second stiffening member (516). |
| US08360436B2 |
Mechanical seal sliding member, and mechanical seal
The present invention provides a mechanical seal sliding member with high lubricating characteristics, in which the coefficient of friction and the temperature of sliding surfaces are lowered and stabilized without excessive leakage. In the mechanical seal sliding member of the present invention, on the sliding surface 2, a plurality of grating sections 5 are formed separately in each of which a plurality of linear shape ridge portions parallel to each other are formed in a predetermined region with a predetermined pitch. The linear shape ridge portions of the plurality of grating sections are formed as inclined at a predetermined angle to a sliding direction of the sliding surfaces 2. Such periodic structure can improve the lubricating characteristics for lubrication. By irradiating a linearly polarized femtosecond laser with irradiating energy adjacent to a process threshold level to a material surface, a fine periodic structure with a cycle interval comparable with a laser wavelength and with a ridge depth half or less than the laser wavelength can be formed by a self-structuring manner. |
| US08360433B2 |
Methods and devices for on-the-roll sports games
A realistic professional team sports board game, including an On-The-Roll mechanism where, once play begins, real time play continues, generally against a clock, opposing teams continue to roll dice continuing sub-play actions or elements, until a play is completed, as by a touchdown, tackle and a series of rules and charts, based on statistical compilation that maps various combinations of offensive and defensive strategies and dice rolls into realistic game situations and the progression among them. Both teams: secretly choose a strategy, generally by selecting a card placed face down; roll dice; reveal strategy choices by turning cards face up; determine a situation chart to consult, and further determine which result is selected from within the chart, based on some combination of which cards were played and the results of the dice rolls. A variety of play cards affect the overall game momentum of either team. |
| US08360428B2 |
Print control apparatus and print control method
When printing is to be executed on the basis of an input print job, and a group of sheets having undergone the printing on the basis of the input print job are discharged to a first one of multiple discharging destinations, the first discharging destination is switched to a second discharging destination in the course of the discharging process, and the second discharging destination is selected in accordance with an arranged order of the group of sheets. |
| US08360427B2 |
Medium transfer apparatus for an automated teller machine
The present invention relates to a medium transfer apparatus for an automated teller machine, wherein a portion of medium transfer apparatus is opened and shut by a simple operation, thereby conveniently and quickly solving the problem of jams occurring when the medium transfer apparatus transfers a paper medium. |
| US08360421B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
With representative configurations of the sheet processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the sheet processing apparatus which includes an intermediate stacking portion in which a sheet is temporarily placed, an aligning portion which supports a part of a lower surface of the sheet stacked in the intermediate stacking portion and which presses a lateral surface end portion of a sheet width direction to align the sheet, and a stapler which processes the sheet aligned by the aligning portion, includes a sheet supporting member which can support the lower surface of the sheet conveyed while sheet stacked in the intermediate stacking portion is processed and a sheet discharging member which presses the rear end of the sheet processed by the stapler and discharges the sheet to the stack tray. |
| US08360418B2 |
Sheet supplying device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A sheet supplying device that is incorporatable in an image forming apparatus includes a recording media container, a sheet feeding unit to feed a recording medium from the recording media container, a frame to support the recording media container and the sheet feeding unit, and a holder to hold the recording media container by surrounding an outer circumference of the recording media container. The recording media container is detachably attachable to the frame in a first operation in which the recording media container is moved in a direction parallel to a sheet conveyance direction and the recording media container is separated from the frame and the holder with the holder remaining in the frame, and a second operation in which the recording media container is moved in a direction perpendicular to the sheet conveyance direction and the recording media container is separated from the frame together with the holder. |
| US08360417B2 |
Input tray media de-slouch system
This invention relates to an input tray media de-slouch apparatus, comprising; an input media tray, at least one pivotable media de-slouch arm operatively connected to the tray, and a releasable locking means operatively connected to the arm and the tray to lock the arm prior to media being placed against the arm to substantially keep the media from slouching and to release the arm when the media is being fed from the input tray. |
| US08360415B1 |
Automatic feed roll cleaning system
A media tray includes a cleaning mechanism that is fed into the media feed system of a printer automatically when the media tray is emptied of print media and then retracted when the media tray is accessed. |
| US08360411B2 |
Apparatus for manufacture of PV solar cells or thin film solar modules
The present invention relates to equipment used to manufacture PV cells or modules. In some embodiments, a support structure is provided that provides support for substrates used in the manufacture of PV cells or modules. The support structure provides support for the substrate at the edge, allows access to the rear of the substrate and is composed of materials that do not contaminate the substrate during processing. |
| US08360404B2 |
Shock absorbing interposer
A shock absorbing interposer is positionable between a manually manipulatable handle and a faucet of a beverage dispenser for dispensing a beverage. The interposer includes a faucet adapter mechanism for interconnecting to a lever of the faucet and a handle adapter mechanism for interconnecting to the handle. A shock absorbing member is operatively connected to the faucet adapter mechanism and the handle adapter mechanism to dissipate excessive forces applied to the handle as the handle is moved between a first operative position and a second operative position in order to reduce the likelihood that such excessive forces will be exerted on the faucet and handle. A faucet assembly including a faucet, handle and shock absorbing interposer is also provided. |
| US08360403B2 |
Hydraulic mount and filling device for the same
A hydraulic mount and a filling device for the hydraulic mount are provided. The hydraulic mount (1) comprises a casing (2) and a support body (6, 7) arranged in an upper part of the casing (2), wherein, the casing (2) and the support body (6, 7) define a chamber (3), and the chamber (3) receives liquid and is divided by a partition into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. An orifice is formed in the partition, so that the upper chamber and the lower chamber are communicated with each other. A through hole (4) for communicating the chamber (3) with the exterior is formed in the support body (6, 7), and a sealing member (5) is arranged in the through hole (4). The filling device for the hydraulic mount (1) comprises a liquid tank (8) and a vacuum extractor (9), wherein, either the liquid tank (8) or the vacuum extractor (9) is connected to the through hole (4) in the hydraulic mount (1) through a pipe in a sealed manner. |
| US08360401B2 |
Storage container, method for molding resin, and method for forming plating film
A storage container is provided, which includes carbon dioxide containing a functional material and a container body in which carbon dioxide has been hermetically contained. Accordingly, a method for molding a resin, a method for forming a plating film, and the storage container for carbon dioxide, which are excellent in the mass productively at low cost, are provided without using any special high pressure apparatus for producing a supercritical fluid. |
| US08360400B2 |
Guardrail assembly, breakaway support post for a guardrail and methods for the assembly and use thereof
A guardrail assembly includes first and second rail sections, with a deforming member deforming the first rail section as it moves relative to the second rail section. Methods of using and assembling a guardrail assembly are also provided. |
| US08360397B2 |
Ball screw device
In a ball screw device, a ball screw linear-movement member is screwed with a ball screw rotary member and configured to linearly move in accordance with a relative rotation with the ball screw rotary member. A housing is holding the ball screw rotary member. A motor is disposed in a motor chamber of the housing, and configured to rotate the ball screw rotary member with a rotor coupled to the ball screw rotary member. A stopper is configured to collide with a brake when an amount of a relative linear movement between the ball screw rotary member and the ball screw linear-movement member becomes no less than a prescribed amount. The brake is configured to decelerate rotation of the rotor by the collision of the stopper with respect to the brake. |
| US08360387B2 |
Actuator including mechanism for converting rotary motion to linear motion
An active vibration control device is provided that is configured to control the position of a body relative to a reference frame. The control device includes sensors that provide input signals corresponding to movement of the body in at least one direction, a rotary motor configured to control the position of the body, and four-bar linkage connecting the rotary motor to the body. The linkage converts the rotary motion output from the motor into a linear motion of the body. The controller, based on the input signals from the reference frame sensors, provides control signals to the rotary motor which acts through the linkage to position the body in the at least one direction relative to the position of the reference frame. |
| US08360382B2 |
Stand assembly and electronic device
The present invention provides a stand assembly for supporting an electronic device. The stand assembly includes a main stand member and an auxiliary stand member. The main stand member includes a first stand and a second stand. The first stand is pivotally connected to the electronic device. The second stand is pivotally connected to the first stand and capable of sliding relative to the electronic device. The auxiliary stand member is pivotally connected to the electronic device. |
| US08360381B2 |
Rotary adjusting hook
A rotary adjusting hook contains a hooking member including a circular first loop fitted on one end thereof, a first vertical segment extending downward from another end thereof, and a hook segment extending outward from the first vertical segment; a first retainer including a circular second loop fitted on one end thereof, a second vertical segment extending downward from another end thereof, a second retainer including a circular third loop fitted on one end thereof, and a third vertical segment extending downward from another end thereof; a positioning set including an axial connecting member and an adjusting member, and the axial connecting member including a first coupling segment to connect with an adjusting member; the adjusting member including a second coupling segment to connect with the first coupling segment of the axial connecting member. |
| US08360377B2 |
Tool mounting device
The tool mounting device according to the invention comprises a first and second coupling device, wherein the first coupling device comprises at least one receptacle, the second coupling device comprises at least one receptacle pin, and the first or second coupling device comprises a tool suspension. The receptacle comprises a recess and an opening, wherein the opening extends from the first end in the direction of the second end over a length and the length of the opening is smaller than a length of the recess and a width of the opening is greater than or equal to a width of the receptacle pin. |
| US08360375B2 |
Adjustable leg support
An adjustable leg support for providing support to and stabilizing a leg of a table, chair or similar article that is shorter than the other legs to prevent the article from wobbling. The adjustable leg support includes a screw-threaded rotatable base that is detachably coupled in surrounding engagement to a correspondingly threaded platform. The platform has a flat shelf that is laid upon the floor below the short leg to be supported. A rotational force is applied to the rotatable base which causes an axial displacement of the platform upwardly through the base towards the short leg. Rotation of the base continues until the flat shelf of the platform is raised and the short leg is seated on the shelf by which to eliminate the gap between the short leg and the floor. The rotatable base and the platform are mated to one another along opposing sets of screw threads that lie outside and surround the short leg to be stabilized. |
| US08360373B2 |
Display apparatus and method
Some embodiments of a product display apparatus may provide consumers with access to samples of portable electronic devices while maintaining the security of the sample devices. The display apparatus can present the sample devices in a manner that encourages consumers to view and operate the user interface of the samples even though each sample unit cannot be physically moved from the display apparatus. |
| US08360371B2 |
Hose and cable management system
The invention is a suspension apparatus for maintaining conduits (hoses, cables, wires, tubing) in desirable positions to prevent conduit abrasion, drag, and friction damage. The suspension apparatus connects a series of conduit guides, having bores through which conduits run, with a guy wire assembly that holds the conduits in a desired position. The guy wires are held by a tension cable connected to a tension reel installed on a mounting. The ends of the guy wires are connected by brackets to mounting structures in a way that provides for the majority of tension forces and system movement to be accounted by the guy wires instead of the conduits. One embodiment is used to manage cables and hoses installed on tractor-trailer rigs having hoses and cables that extend along the length of the trailer. A more particular embodiment includes an installation on a tandem slider trailer with an adjustable wheel base. |
| US08360369B2 |
Emergency collective actuator and method for a helicopter
A helicopter includes a rotor system having a rotor with an adjustable pitch that is controlled at least in part by a pilot using a collective control and which helicopter generates a Low RPM signal that is indicative of a threshold low rotational speed of the rotor. An actuator arrangement configured to move the collective control by exerting a force on the collective control such that the pilot is able to overcome the force but which otherwise moves the collective control from a current operational position toward a minimum pitch position. A control arrangement is configured for receiving the Low RPM signal and for responding to the Low RPM signal by activating the actuator arrangement for at least a predetermined period of time to apply the force to move the collective control from the current operational position to the minimum pitch position. |
| US08360367B2 |
Methods for optimizing the performance, cost and constellation design of satellites for full and partial earth coverage
A system and method for highly efficient constellations of satellites which give single, double, . . . k-fold redundant full earth imaging coverage, or k-fold coverage for latitudes greater than any selected latitude is given for remote sensing instruments in short periods of time, i.e., continuous coverage, as a function of the parameters of the satellite and the remote sensing instrument for many different types of orbits. A high data rate satellite communication system and method for use with small, mobile cell phone receiving and transmitting stations is also provided. Satellite instrument performance models, full and partial satellite constellation models, and satellite cost models are disclosed and used to optimize the design of satellite systems with vastly improved performance and lower cost over current major satellite systems. |
| US08360364B2 |
Aircraft comprising a platform that can be moved between two levels of the aircraft
An aircraft with at least two levels situated one above the other, including: a platform that can be moved between a first position and a second position, the first of these positions, as a lower position, being situated at a first level of the aircraft and the second position, as a higher position, being situated at a second level higher than that of the first level; an assembly of traction cables connected on the platform and a mechanism operating the cables for raising and lowering the platform; and an assembly of walls surrounding at least partially the platform and along which the platform moves. |
| US08360363B2 |
Floor structure in an aircraft with continuous panels
A floor structure in an aircraft includes a plurality of seat rails that extend parallel in relation to each other, and at least one floor panel. The floor panel extends over the seat rails and rests on the individual seat rails. In order to be able to fasten interior equipment components to the seat rails situated underneath the floor panels, the at least one floor panel includes a plurality of through-holes through which the interior equipment components of the aircraft can be locked into place on the seat rails. |
| US08360361B2 |
Method and apparatus for jet blast deflection
Methods and apparatuses for passive jet blast deflection or the like. Use of the passive jet blast deflector permits the efficient dispersal of a fast moving local heat source into the environment through passive means while providing a high strength structure. The jet blast deflector system may include a first plate, a second plate, and a cellular core disposed between them adapted to allow cooling ambient air to flow through the cellular core, wherein the first plate, second plate, and core are all seamlessly coupled heat pipes that form a single vapor core to facilitate the spreading and even storing of thermal energy. An ejector plate may be attached to the top of the second plate to create a low pressure zone as the heat source passes over it, thereby pulling the ambient air through the cellular core, facilitating the removal the thermal energy from the system. |
| US08360359B2 |
Aircraft horizontal stabilizer surface
Aircraft horizontal stabilizer surface (8) in which the sweep angle (40) of this surface (8), where this angle (40) is the one formed by the projection of the reference line of points located at 25% of the local chord (19) of the horizontal stabilizer surface (8) on a plane perpendicular to the aircraft plane of symmetry (21), and which also contains this plane to the flight direction of the aircraft with respect to the aircraft plane of symmetry (21), is less than 90 degrees, with this angle (40) being measured in the flight direction of the aircraft. In addition, the structural connection of this horizontal stabilizer surface (8) to the aircraft fuselage (1) is located at a closing frame (13) of this fuselage (1). |
| US08360358B2 |
Ram air duct flap arrangement and ram air duct
A ram air duct flap arrangement (22) comprises at least one ram air duct flap (24, 26) which is designed to close, in a closed position, a ram air inlet (14) or a ram air outlet (18) of a ram air duct (10) and, at least partly open, in an open position, the ram air inlet (14) or the ram air outlet (18) of the ram air duct (10). Furthermore, the ram air duct flap arrangement (22) comprises an actuator (32) for actuating the ram air duct flap (24, 26) between its closed position and its open position. A pressure control device (42) is designed to control a pressure (pi), which, when the ram air duct flap arrangement (22) is mounted in an aircraft, acts on an inner surface (44) of the ram air duct flap (24, 26) facing an interior of the aircraft, in such a way that it corresponds substantially to a pressure (pa) which, when the ram air duct flap arrangement (22) is mounted in an aircraft, acts on an outer surface (38) of the ram air duct flap (24, 26) facing the external environment. |
| US08360352B1 |
Reel for improved handling of lengthy flexible materials such as electrical cords, and the like
A reel for the management, transport, and storage of flexible materials such as electrical cords, air hoses, and the like, comprises a hollow cylindrical central hub with a pair of disk-like side plates radially attached to the outer ends of the hub, a slidable hand grip mounted on said reel and a rotatable winding knob for controllable rotation of the reel by an operator. The cord take-up portion of the hub has a provisional retainer shaped to receive a loop formed, preferably, in the middle of the cord's length. Once the loop is hooked over the provisional retainer, an operator reels in both halves of the cord simultaneously by turning with the winding knob. Conversely, holding the reel by the slidable hand grip with one hand and pulling outward on both ends of the cord simultaneously with the free hand, unreels the cord as needed. Once the cord is fully unwound from the hub, the provisional retainer allows it to falls free of the reel for unfettered use. |
| US08360350B2 |
Discharge end liner
A discharge end liner attachable to a discharge end wall in a grinding mill. The discharge end liner includes a number of pulp lifter elements mountable on the discharge end wall for at least partially defining a number of chambers rotatable in the predetermined direction respectively between a submerged condition and a raised condition. The discharge end liner also includes one or more grate subassemblies positionable on the pulp lifter elements, for at least partially screening the slurry. At least a part of each grate subassembly is located by an outer portion of the pulp lifter element in a predetermined position relative to the discharge end wall. An inner portion of each pulp lifter element defines an obtuse angle between the inner portion and the outer portion, for permitting the retained portion of the slurry to evacuate from each chamber respectively while each chamber is in the raised condition. |
| US08360349B1 |
Rotary grinder control system and method
The present invention relates to a control system for a rotary grinder. Rotary grinders control systems of the present invention are, for example, used to grind plastic or wood to reduce the size of the material to a desired size. Material to be ground is forced by an hydraulic ram toward a rotor having a plurality of cutters thereon. The control system is capable of controlling the grinding operation as a function of ram velocity and pressure as well as power consumption by the rotor. |
| US08360348B2 |
Method and apparatus for recycling carpet
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for separating carpet fibers from a backing material to which said fibers are secured. The apparatus includes a belt for driving a carpet strip having one or more backings and one or more fibers secured on a face of said backing into the operative part of the device. There are a pair of rollers that are adapted to receive the carpet strip from said belt, and pass the carpet strip to a dish plate. The dish plate has an edge extending upwardly from the dish plate. The face of the carpet having the fibers contacts the edge after the carpet passes through the rollers. The edge of the blade holds the carpet presenting it to the main drum. The main drum rotates downwards and has a plurality of pins that shred the carpet backing and tear apart and free the face carpet fibers from the backing fibers. The face fibers pass to a receptacle for recycling. The torn backing fibers, being usually longer and lighter than the face fibers, remain within the pins of the drum and are transported towards the back end of the machine and fall in a different receptacle for recycling. |
| US08360346B2 |
Bodyspray assembly
A bodyspray assembly is disclosed that provides a pivotable spray head mounted essentially flush with the surrounding enclosure wall. In one embodiment, a special tool is provided to rotate a waterway housing, to selectively couple the waterway housing to a source from the front of the assembly. In another embodiment, rotation of a spray face assembly rotates a waterway housing, to selectively couple the waterway housing to a source from the front of the assembly. The bodyspray assembly provides ball and socket type articulation. |
| US08360342B2 |
Fuel injector having differential tip cooling system and method
According to various embodiments, a system includes a gasification fuel injector. The gasification fuel injector includes a tip portion, an annular coolant chamber disposed in the tip portion, and a first structural support extending through the annular coolant chamber. The first structural support divides the annular coolant chamber into a first passage and a second passage. |
| US08360341B2 |
Atomization apparatus
Atomization apparatus is configured to produce mist by atomizing liquid after electrolysis to discharge the mist. The apparatus includes a substrate, an electrolysis device and a vibration device. The substrate includes: a liquid receiving part having a liquid storage surface; and a reservoir having a discharge surface. The electrolysis device has an anode and a cathode located at the liquid receiving part. The reservoir holds the liquid after electrolysis obtained from one of the anode and the cathode. The discharge surface is located at the side of the one of the anode and the cathode. The vibration device is configured to vibrate and atomize the liquid after electrolysis held at the reservoir. |
| US08360340B2 |
Method for selective-regulating spraying liquid and a device for carrying out said method
The invention relates to methods and devices for spraying liquid during production processes requiring a uniform dispersion mixture, in particular in internal combustion engines requiring a fine fuel-air mixture, in the chemical industry for apparatuses for rinsing gas with liquid, which require a uniform coarse-dispersion mixture for reducing the drop entrainment of a rinsing liquid. The inventive method consists in collecting, during the liquid spraying, which is carried out by injecting a liquid at an angle to a gas flow, particles in those sectors of the spray cone that are appropriate to particles of specified sizes. The liquid spraying and collecting processes are carried out at one section of a laminar unidirectional gas flow. The collected particles form, when accumulated, a liquid that is returned for re-spraying. The inventive device comprises a body (1) with an internal channel (2) for providing a laminar unidirectional gas flow, a spray nozzle (3) which is placed at an angle to the gas flow direction and is connected to a liquid feed pipe (6) and a collector for particles (4) which is made and placed in such a manner that it is able to collect particles in those sectors of the spray cone that are appropriate to particles of specified sizes. In the first variant, the collector is connected to a pipe for returning the liquid for re-spraying (5), and in the second variant, the collector is connected to an additional spray nozzle (7) made in the internal channel of the body. |
| US08360338B2 |
Fuel injection valve and machining method for nozzle
A fuel injection valve with reduced adhesion of deposits to a fuel injecting portion and superior in durability is provided. Also provided is a method for machining multi-orifice type fuel injecting portions easily, less expensively, in good surface roughness, in high productivity, and with few variations in shape, accuracy and surface roughness, using inexpensive equipment. The surface roughness of fuel injecting portions comprising orifices and apertures is made Rz 2 μm or less. Apertures are formed by press working so as to each have a plastic-worked surface of Rz 0.2 μm or less in surface roughness and then orifices are formed in the bottoms of the apertures so as to have a plastic-worked surface of Rz 0.2 μm or less in surface roughness. Further, when abrasion resistance of the nozzle is required, the fuel injecting portions are finished to a surface roughness of Rz 2 μm by quenching. |
| US08360336B2 |
Rack and method of forming the same
A method of forming a rack (45) (e.g. of the type used in a geared system such as a rack and pinion), suitable for use in a stairlift rail, comprises providing a plurality (30) of elongate strips (10) and securing the plurality of strips together as a stack of strips to form the rack. The strips may be profiled to provide a profile to the rack. Preferably the profile provides a toothed rack on which a gear or roller of a stairlift carriage may be driven. The rack may be formed in a continuous process. The rack may be straight or curved. A rack comprising a plurality of elongate strips secured together as a stack of strips is also described. |
| US08360334B2 |
Water heating control system and method
The water heating control system and method tracks, monitors and controls energy consumed by systems and/or equipment including, but not limited to, hot water, HVAC, pools, and spas. The system and method controls a given device by utilizing historical and real-time information collected from a system of similar devices at the same and similar locations, as inputs to control processes which, utilizing the blended real-time and historical data, improve device management, including energy savings and maintenance of the entire system of devices over time. |
| US08360332B2 |
Electronic card
An electronic card that, once activated, can drive a set of user data from a first secure microprocessor through a signal line to a second processor, process the set of user data in the second processor to generate a series of digital transaction signals, drive the series of digital transaction signals into a RC specialty circuit, convert the series of digital transaction signals into two distinct analog waveform signals, and drive the two distinct analog waveform signals along at least two tracks such that the first analog signal and the second analog signal cancel each other magnetically so that the resulting magnetic flux at a target broadcast area replicates the magnetic field created in a magnetic stripe. |
| US08360331B2 |
Harsh operating environment RFID tag assemblies and methods of manufacturing thereof
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag assembly and method of manufacturing the assembly including an RFID semiconductor chip having an antenna interface mounted on a mounting substrate and having a predetermined operating frequency, a conductor coupled to the antenna interface and formed on the mounting substrate, an antenna electrically coupled to the conductor having a first radiating element lying in a first plane and a second radiating element lying in a second plane that is at an angle relative to the first plane, and an enclosure having a body with a cavity dimensioned for receiving the mounting substrate and RFID semiconductor chip, the conductor, and the first and second radiating elements, the mounting substrate being positioned proximate to the closed end of the cavity and a seal for closing the opening and sealing the cavity. |
| US08360330B2 |
Antenna device and radio frequency IC device
An antenna device is arranged to transmit or receive a radio frequency communication signal to or from an external device such as a reader/writer, and is arranged such that an antenna resonance circuit including an antenna coil and a capacitor is connected to an additional resonance circuit including an inductor and a capacitor. A radio frequency IC device preferably includes the antenna device and a radio frequency IC. The antenna device is constructed such that a change in characteristics thereof caused by a change in the distance between a radio frequency IC device and a reader/writer is minimized, and the radio frequency IC device performs communication with high reliability. |
| US08360329B2 |
Mobile wallet with managed active and passive payment technology
Embodiments of the invention are directed to apparatus, methods, and computer program products for allowing a user to make a payment at a payment terminal via a mobile device regardless of whether a power source in a mobile device is present or active. An active module of a mobile device enables a user to make a contactless payment via a mobile device when a power source in a mobile device is present and active. A passive module of a mobile device enables a user to make a contactless payment via a mobile device when a power source in a mobile device is either not present or not active. The passive module is configured to receive power from an electromagnetic field generated by a payment terminal. The mobile device is configured to manage the active and passive payment technologies by automatically activating the passive payment technology when a power source in the mobile device is not present or active. |
| US08360325B2 |
Wireless IC device, electronic apparatus, and method for adjusting resonant frequency of wireless IC device
A wireless IC device and an electronic apparatus are obtained, which can achieve miniaturization and improve the gain of a radiator plate (electrode) without providing a dedicated antenna. A wireless IC device is provided, in which a loop electrode is provided in a ground electrode provided on a printed wiring circuit board, and in which a wireless IC chip that processes a transmission/reception signal or an electromagnetic coupling module is coupled to the loop electrode. The ground electrode is coupled to the wireless IC chip or the electromagnetic coupling module via the loop electrode, and transmits or receives a high-frequency signal. The ground electrode is formed with a slit for adjusting a resonant frequency thereof. |
| US08360323B2 |
Security label laminate and method of labeling
A labeling method for marking a product with invisible information. The label includes a removable laminate formed from a light transmissive layer, and a light transmissive adhesive that detachably affixes the label to a product. The label includes an invisible marker that contains information, detectable by light of selected wavelength. The amount of marker selected is sufficient to allow information in the marker to be detected only when the laminate is affixed over a surface with a selected optical background. The label laminate is removed from the surface of the product and affixed to a surface having the selected optical background and is exposed to light that renders the information in the marker detectable. The method allows covert information in the label laminate to be reliably detected and read with the use of minimal quantities of marker material. |
| US08360320B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for a hybrid optical code scanner
An apparatus, system and method are presented for scanning items presented to an assisted hybrid optical code scanner where the scanner includes a handheld imaging scanner located on the customer side of the hybrid scanner. When docked with the hybrid scanner, the handheld imaging scanner is used with a fixed laser scanner to read optical codes. When undocked, the handheld imaging scanner is used to scan items not easily presentable to the hybrid scanner. |
| US08360319B2 |
Encoded information reading terminal operating in infrastructure more and AD-HOC mode
An encoded information reading (EIR) terminal can comprise a central processing unit (CPU), a memory, an EIR device, and a wireless communication interface. The EIR device can be provided by a bar code reading device, an RFID reading device, and/or a card reading device. The wireless communication interface can comprise a first logical communication interface operating on a first frequency channel and a second logical communication interface operating on a second frequency channel. The wireless communication interface can be configured to transmit infrastructure mode beacons. The infrastructure mode beacons can include a service set identifier. The wireless communication interface can be further configured to transmit ad-hoc mode beacons on the second frequency channel. The ad-hoc mode beacons can include an identifier of a mesh path selection protocol. The EIR terminal can be further configured to route MAC frames between the first logical communication interface and the second logical communication interface. |
| US08360317B2 |
Apparatus and method for enhancing card security
A card adapted to be read by a machine has certain patterns and physical characteristics unique to the card and includes electronic circuitry for storing selected of these characteristics. The machine includes apparatus for; (a) optically sensing selected characteristics of the card; (b) electromagnetically sensing information stored in the card; and (c) comparing optically sensed data with electromagnetically sensed data for validating the card. The machine further includes apparatus for selectively processing and updating the information stored on the card each time it reads the card. |
| US08360315B2 |
Smart hybrid card system providing authenticity, privacy, and security (APS)
An RFID system includes a number of RFID tags and an RFID reader. Each RFID tag includes a respective portion of a target data object. The RFID reader is adapted to read each portion of the target data object from the respective RFID tags. A method of providing an identification function includes using an RFID reader to read one portion of a target data object stored on an RFID tag, from among a number of portions of the target data object stored on a respective number of RFID tags. |
| US08360314B2 |
Radio frequency identifiers in game tickets
Systems and methods of distributing, dispensing and validating game tickets provide for the use of radio frequency identifiers (RFIDS). Game ticket consumables may also be tracked with RFIDS. Ticket data such as game numbers, void if removed numbers, theme descriptions, place styles, price points and player account information can be stored to a memory of a game ticket, where the ticket is capable of transmitting the ticket data as an RF signal. Approaches also provide for the use of RFIDS in game sponsor/ticket printer facilities, ticket warehouse facilities and ticket destruction facilities. |
| US08360313B1 |
Computer-based value-bearing item customization security
The exemplary embodiment of the present invention will provide computer systems and methods for protecting the security of processing for customization of computer-based value-bearing items, such as, for example, securing processing of exemplary image-customized computer-based postage label 1 in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in FIG. 1. The exemplary embodiment of the present invention will further provide computer systems and methods for securing computer-based value-bearing items, such as, for example, securing image-customized computer-based postage label 1 as depicted in FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 1, the exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will bear an image 2 that would be provided by a corresponding user, namely by the user that orders the customized computer-based postage label. The user may provide image 2 in an electronic form, such as by uploading a digital representation of image 2. In a variation of the exemplary embodiment, a user could alternatively provide a hardcopy image. The exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will bear a human-readable indication of the country 4 for which the postage is approved. The exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will also bear a human-readable indication of an amount of postage 5. The exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will also bear a human-readable identifier (such as a serial number) 6 that will uniquely identify the particular customized computer-based postage label. The exemplary customized computer-based postage label 1 will also bear a machine-readable set of information 7. |
| US08360312B2 |
Metal-containing transaction card and method of making the same
A method of creating a single transaction card is disclosed and comprises embossing the single transaction card within a pocket to form embossed characters on a first surface of the single transaction card, filling the pocket with a fill panel to provide a substantially flush surface on a second surface of the single transaction card, wherein a third surface of the fill panel is in uniform, direct contact with an interior of the pocket. Another method is disclosed for machining a face pocket within a single transaction card and disposing a microchip therein. In various embodiments, a single transaction card is comprised of a continuous metal layer, such as, for example, titanium. |
| US08360307B2 |
Closure for a compartment
The invention provides a closures (106) for a compartment (100) having one or more walls (112, 114, 116, 118) and an opening (110) defined by at least one of the walls (112, 114, 116, 118). The closure (106) is associated with at least one fastener located inside the compartment (100). The fastener can hold the closure (106) in a first position (eg. closed) relative to the opening (110). The fastener is adapted to cause the closure (106) to assume a second position (eg. open) relative to the opening (110) upon receipt of a suitable signal. The closure (106) has at least on indicium (108) visible from outside the compartment (110). The indicium (108) is adapted to provide a visual indication of a status of the closure (106) or the compartment (110), such as closure open, closure closed, compartment empty, compartment occupied. Instead of indicium (108) or in addition to it, the closure of the invention can include in the fastener means for communicating to a remote device, a status of the closure or the compartment. The closure and the compartment may form an array with other closures and compartments having similar fasteners. In that event, the fastener in each compartment may be addressable. |
| US08360303B2 |
Forming low stress joints using thermal compress bonding
A method of forming a bump structure includes providing a first work piece including a dielectric layer having a top surface; placing a second work piece facing the first work piece; placing a heating tool contacting the second work piece; and heating the second work piece using the heating tool to perform a reflow process. A first solder bump between the first and the second work pieces is melted to form a second solder bump. Before the second solder bump solidifies, pulling the second work piece away from the first work piece, until an angle formed between a tangent line of the second solder bump and the top surface of the dielectric layer is greater than about 50 degrees, wherein the tangent line is drawn at a point where the second solder bump joins the dielectric layer. |
| US08360294B2 |
Surgical instrument with replaceable loading unit
A surgical stapling device has an elongated body and a removable loading unit and a securing structure for securing the loading unit onto the elongated body. A guiding ramp guides the movement of the loading unit as it is mounted onto the loading portion. The locking structure has a first position for locking movement of the loading unit and enabling firing rod to engage the loading unit. The locking unit has a second position for allowing the loading unit to be disengaged and removed from the device. |
| US08360293B2 |
Method for anchoring pin insertion
A method utilizing a device capable of mounting an anchoring pin and then inserting the pin into the ground or other penetrable surface includes a hand-graspable elongate handle having an upper under and a lower end and a magnetic puck assembly fixed to the handle lower end for picking up an anchoring pin and maintaining in an insertion position until the pin is inserted into the ground. The method can be used to insert marker pins, or pins for retaining materials on a surface, such as the surface of an erodable waterway. |
| US08360292B2 |
Staple refill, stapler, and cartridge
A staple refill includes a refill body accommodating sheet-type connected staples. The refill body includes a bottom wall, a right wall provided on a right side of the bottom wall and formed with a vertically extending right guide slot, and a left wall provided on a left side of the bottom wall and formed with a vertically extending left guide slot. A pressing member is provided in the refill body in a movable manner to press the sheet-type connected staples, the pressing member including a guide shaft guided along the right and left guide slots. The guide shaft includes a right end portion protruding outside the right wall through the right guide slot, and left end portion protruding outside the left wall through the left guide slot. |
| US08360290B2 |
Method for separating label assembly
A label assembly including a face sheet, a back sheet, and a layer of an adhesive positioned between the face sheet and the back sheet. A separation line divides the label assembly into at least two portions. The separation line is formed by a first tearable line of separation extending across the back sheet and a second tearable line of separation extending across the face sheet. The first tearable line of separation is offset with respect to the second tearable line of separation, and at least one of the first and second tearable lines of separation includes a non-linear portion directed toward and/or an angled portion extending at an angle to an other of the at least one of the first and second tearable lines of separation. |
| US08360288B2 |
Detachable carrier support member for bicycle cargo racks
The present invention provides a detachable carrier support member for bicycle cargo racks includes a base plate, a frame rack set, and a plurality of clamping block sets. The base plate is fixedly joined to the bottom of a carrier, wherein the bottom of the base plate is attached to the frame rack set. Further, the base plate is secured on a fixed position by the plurality of clamping block sets that clamps and holds on to the support bar of the bicycle cargo rack. To attach the carrier support member to the bicycle cargo rack, the plurality of clamping block sets is inserted into a wedging groove disposed at two lateral frame racks of the frame rack set; whereby two control shafts brake and allow the user to quickly secure the carrier to and remove the carrier from the cargo rack. |
| US08360284B2 |
Dispenser of fluid products
A Dispenser of fluid product includes a ring nut (2) able to be associated with a container of a fluid product and a dispensing head (7), substantially hollow and coaxially slidable relative to the ring nut. The dispensing head includes a dosing chamber (13) positioned inside the dispensing head, a dispensing nozzle (11) to allow escape of the fluid product. The dispensing head further includes a deformable membrane (14) fastened to the ring nut and a top wall (9) facing the membrane and defining the dosing chamber in combination with the membrane; the top wall being movable between a first position, distal from the ring nut, in which a volume of the dosing chamber is greatest and the dosing chamber is isolated and at least in part filled with fluid product, and a second position, proximal to the ring nut, in which the volume of the dosing chamber is smallest. |
| US08360282B2 |
Foam-forming assembly, squeeze foamer and dispensing device
The invention relates to a foam-forming assembly for forming a foam, comprising a housing having an air passage and a liquid passage which each end in a mouth and which are in communication with a dispensing passage which ends in a dispensing opening, and a valve body. The invention is characterized in that the mouth of the liquid passage is annular and the mouth of the air passage and an entry port of the dispensing passage are substantially provided on the circumference of an imaginary circle, in which between the annular mouth of the liquid passage and the mouth of the air passage and/or the entry port of the dispensing passage an annular sealing surface is provided, against which, in rest position, the valve body sealingly engages, and in which during dispensing the valve body becomes detached of the sealing surface such that the mouth of the air passage, the mouth of the liquid passage and the entry port of the dispensing passage substantially simultaneously come in fluid communication with each other. |
| US08360281B2 |
Child resistant container with inverting cap top key for spray activation
A child resistant container with inverting cap top key for spray activation includes (a) a container main body adapted to receive a sprayer container with a top-positioned spray activator and spray nozzle; (b) an inner cap adapted for permanent connection to the open top of the container main body and having at least one key slot to permit at least one key to be inserted therein to permit a spray activator of a spray container to be activated by depression; (c) cut-out(s) to expose the spray activator nozzle when needed; (d) an outer cap to fit over the inner cap and having upwardly projecting key(s) for spray activation when the outer cap is inverted and inserted into the inner cap. |
| US08360272B2 |
Bottled water center
A bottle return station preferably with a dispensing station provides for the receipt of empty bottles. Bottles are provided through an acceptor which accepts bottles having a particular configuration while not accepting others. The empty bottle returns are guided to a receiving station where they can be retrieved by an operator. Meanwhile a dispensing station can be accessed by users. |
| US08360268B2 |
Case or bag having a lid element that can be opened with one hand
A case or bag for holding items has a basic body that is defined by wall elements and a floor element. The basic body has opening that can be closed by a lid element that is disposed on the basic body and can be moved out of an open position into a closed position. The lid element is configured in one piece and with inherent rigidity and can be moved out of its closed position into the open position by interacting guide elements disposed on the basic body and on the lid element through a combined pivoting and displacing movement. |
| US08360259B2 |
Automatic opening-and-closing discharging structure for a loose powder jar
An automatic opening-and-closing discharging structure for a loose powder jar in which a discharging porous face can be automatically opened and closed based on a makeup demand. In this design, overlapped fixed and movable trough plates having opposite discharging porous faces are arranged at a filling port of a jar body. Long and short arc grooves are disposed oppositely at an external perimeter of the porous face of the fixed trough plate, wherein an elastic member is disposed in each long arc groove. Convex inserted columns are inserted at the bottom of the movable trough plate corresponding to the positions of the long and short arc grooves, so as to form a rotation control guide. Convex points are preset on a top-edge ring plate of the movable trough plate, so that when a jar cover is locked, the discharging is closed by dislocation and disconnection of the porous faces as the cover body rotates. |
| US08360255B2 |
Integrally formed shelf
An integrally formed shelf used for being fastened to another shelf includes a main body, a back plate, and two side plates. The main body includes a first bottom plate and a second bottom plate stacked to each other. The main body has a bottom edge and two side edges, and the two side edges are connected with the bottom edge, respectively. The back plate is connected with the bottom edge, and the back plate includes a first fastening sheet extending from the bottom edge. The two side plates are connected with two sides of the back plate. Part of the respective side plate is sandwiched between the first bottom plate and the second bottom plate, and each of the side plates includes a second fastening sheet extending from the side edge. |
| US08360254B2 |
Angled support for displaying products
A support structure may be mounted to an existing vertical support. In an embodiment, the support structure may include a plurality of horizontal support members. Two or more vertical uprights are mounted to the horizontal supports. The vertical uprights and one of the horizontal support members provide channels for retaining a peg board panel in position. The support structure may be configured so as to cause the peg board panel to at an angle compared to the vertical supports. Multiple support structures may be coupled together to provide runs of peg board panels. Furthermore, the peg board panel may include a graphic that correspond to products being supported by the peg board panel. |
| US08360250B2 |
Self-cleaning valve
An elongated filter disposed over a metering passage of a valve. A rotor is rotatably mounted over the filter and includes a scraping surface positioned along the length of the filter. As water enters the valve, the rotor rotates, causing the scraping surface to scrape off any debris along the length of the filter. |
| US08360247B2 |
Magnetic separation apparatus
A magnetic separation apparatus (10) for separating magnetic materials from non-magnetic materials in a material flow comprising self cleaning magnetic separators (15) comprising: a cylinder (20) having a first end closer to a material flow than its second end in use, a piston (25) slidingly mounted within the cylinder (20), and a magnetic shaft (30) extending from the piston (25), the piston (25) and cylinder (20) adapted to move the magnetic shaft (30) between an extended position (31) and a retracted position (32), such that in the extended position (32), at least a sleeveless portion of an outer surface of the magnetic shaft (30) is exposed to the material flow and in the retracted position the magnetic portion is retracted substantially or wholly within the cylinder (20), the apparatus including a protected shaft wiper (120) and shaft seal (125) within the first end of the cylinder (20) for removing extracted magnetics. |
| US08360245B2 |
Equipment and method for flotating and classifying mineral slurry
The invention relates to an equipment and method for flotating mineral slurry (4) in a flotation cell provided with a flotation mechanism (3), comprising at least a drive shaft (6), a rotor (5) and a stator (7), and at least one inlet (11) for feeding mineral slurry (4), a froth launder system (8) for removing mineral enriched froth, at least two discharge outlets (28, 12) for removing two material flows with two different grain sizes from the flotation cell, in which case the flotation cell (2) is provided with a classifying equipment (1) including means for setting the mineral slurry (24) to be classified, separated from the mineral slurry, in an essentially upwardly moving rotary motion in the flotation cell, as well as means for separating coarser material (25) from finely divided material (26). |
| US08360243B2 |
Liquid transporting apparatus, classifying apparatus, and classifying method
A liquid transporting apparatus includes: a microchannel; a transporting liquid supply port through which transporting liquid is supplied to the microchannel; a partition wall as defined herein, and that has an opening; a first split channel that is provided on an upper side of the partition wall; a second split channel that is provided on a lower side of the partition wall; a particle dispersion supply port through which a particle dispersion is supplied to a middle portion of a width direction of the first split channel; and at least one drain port through which the fluid is discharged from downstreams of the first and second split channels, and a pattern that generates an upward-directed flow with respect to a vertical direction in a middle portion of a section of the microchannel is formed in an inner wall of the microchannel or in the partition wall. |
| US08360239B2 |
Kit for transferring an image onto an object
The present invention is a personal water transfer imaging process kit for application of an image to an object. A pre-printed film having an image thereon is suspended within a vat of water to hydrate the ink after which it is activated. The object is submerged into the vat containing the hydrated and activated ink to generate pressure against the object and cause transfer the ink image onto the object. Primer, base coat, top coat, activator, film and supporting supplies are all supplied within the self-contained kit. The primer coating material, base coating material, activator material and top coat material are the form of a hand held aerosol propellant or pump actuator devices. The kit components are efficiently packaged within a cardboard tube provided with protective clear outer skin. The sensitive image transfer film and supporting components are thereby protected from moisture, dirt and damage while in the tube. The compact size makes the kit retail and retailer friendly and less costly to ship and occupies less retail when displayed in a retail outlet. |
| US08360237B2 |
Apparatus for packaging and presenting rotary drill bits
A container is provided for packaging, shipping, storing and presenting a rotary drill bit. The container may be used with fixed cutter drill bits or roller cone drill bits. A wide variety of tools and accessory components may be disposed within the container. A bit breaker may also be attached to one end of the container using a bit breaker adapter. Bit breakers for two different sizes of rotary drill bits may be releasably engaged with a container using the same bit breaker adapter. |
| US08360235B2 |
Smokeless tobacco container
A smokeless tobacco container (1) comprising in its closed state, a first and second portion, said portions being rotatably engageable with each other to define a space, said first portion (2) having release means, said second portion (3) having complementary engaging means such that only when in a selected position the release means can be aligned with the complementary engaging means thereby allowing separation of the two portions to open the container. |
| US08360230B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring a parameter during the transport of objects to a processing device
A method and an apparatus measure a quantity parameter during the transport of objects. The objects are in particular flat mail items and are tipped onto a conveyor component of a transport device and are transported by the latter. At least one recording time, in each case at least one photograph of a measurement sector of the conveyor component is taken. For each recording time, the value which a quantity parameter which describes the quantity of objects in the measurement sector has at the recording time is calculated. For this purpose, the proportion of the area of the measurement sector which is covered by objects is measured. A prescribed functional relationship between the quantity parameter and the measured proportion is evaluated. The speed at which the conveyor component transports the objects is changed depending on the quantity parameter value measured. |
| US08360229B2 |
Isolating plant and associated isolating method
An isolating plant for isolating objects, in particular nuclear fuel pellets, fed in stacks, includes a feeding conveyor belt and an output conveyor belt, permitting a particularly reliable and interruption-free isolation of the fed objects simultaneously with a high processing speed. A delivery area, situated between the feeding conveyor belt and the output conveyor belt, includes a separating device driven by a pressure gas, in which the fed objects are separated from each other during operation of the plant by purposeful pressure-gas pulses in order to be delivered one by one to the output conveyor belt. A method for isolating nuclear fuel pellets is also provided. |
| US08360227B2 |
Apparatus and method for orienting shock-sensitive glass plates in ultra clean rooms
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for orienting thin glass plates (11) in a contamination-free manner. Said method and apparatus have the following features: a) in order to orient the glass plate (11), a lifting frame (1) is raised from below through the free space between the rolls (13) along with an orienting frame (2) which rests on the lifting frame (1) and is fitted with struts (7) that are connected in a rotatably hinged fashion to the orienting frame (2) and are provided with supporting elements (8) which penetrate the free space between the rolls (13), project beyond the supporting level of the rolls (13), and support the glass plate (11); b) the glass plate (11) is placed in a shock-free manner by means of sliding elements (3) that are actuated by individually controllable drive units (4), the movement of the sliding elements (3) being transmitted to the two longitudinal cross beams of the orienting frame (2) by means of pivot joints (6) which are fastened to the sliding elements (3). |
| US08360223B2 |
Medium storing and advancing apparatus
A medium storing and advancing apparatus is provided which prevents, when a medium sandwiched between two tapes is wound on a drum to be stored, that the medium could not be wound due to the thickness of the tapes wound previously on the drum. The medium storing and advancing apparatus includes reels which supply and wind up the tapes, and a drum which winds up the tapes, wherein the drum is provided with a drum groove portion over the circumferentially entire periphery substantially in a middle way of the outer peripheral surface of the drum so that the tapes are wound in the drum groove portion. |
| US08360222B2 |
Transmission braking and four-wheel locking for hydraulic hybrid transmission equipped vehicles
A transmission braking system includes a vehicle drive train and at least one hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor includes a front shaft and a rear shaft. The rear shaft has an anti-rotation element. An engagement mechanism is slidably affixed to the vehicle drive train, and selectively couples with the anti-rotation element to militate against a rotation of the front and rear shafts. A four-wheel locking system is also provided. The four wheel locking system includes a shaft-coupling engagement mechanism slidably affixed to one of the hydraulic motors. The shaft-coupling engagement mechanism selectively couples with the anti-rotation elements of the motors for allowing a summing of the output torque. The transmission braking system and the four-wheel locking system may be provided in a combined system. |
| US08360218B2 |
Structure for disposing clutch control apparatus in power unit for saddle-ride type vehicle
A clutch control apparatus for receiving an air flow more easily and to obtain a higher cooling performance in a power unit for a saddle-ride type vehicle while avoiding the size of the main engine body becoming larger in the front-and-rear direction. The power unit includes a clutch apparatus installed in a clutch chamber. The clutch apparatus is disposed in the course of power transmission from a crankshaft to a drive wheel. The clutch chamber is formed between a crankcase and a clutch cover that is coupled to a side surface of the crankcase. A clutch control apparatus that controls the switching of the connection and disconnection actions of a clutch apparatus is attached to the outer surface of a clutch cover in a position at a side of a cylinder block. |
| US08360213B2 |
Ventilated brake disc
The invention relates to a brake disc comprising a support bell, intended for being connected to a wheel hub of a vehicle, and a braking band intended for cooperating with a caliper arranged astride of the brake disc. The braking band comprises two flanges connected by a plurality of connecting elements that define ventilation channels. The brake disc is characterized in that it comprises driving elements between the braking band and the bell, which elements improve the efficiency of the ventilation inside the braking band, as well as the mechanical deformation of the brake disc during the braking step. |
| US08360210B2 |
Oil buffer for an elevator
In an oil buffer for an elevator, at least one cylindrical intermediate plunger is inserted into a base cylinder. An upper-stage plunger is inserted into the intermediate plunger. An orifice is provided in a bottom surface portion of the upper-stage plunger. A pin rod is provided upright in the base cylinder. The pin rod is inserted into the orifice in a middle of a stroke of the upper-stage plunger. A return spring causes the intermediate plunger and the upper-stage plunger to return to positions in an unloaded state. |
| US08360207B1 |
Security method for a self-service checkout system with RFID capability
A security method for a self-service checkout system with radio frequency identification (RFID) capability. The security method includes the steps of obtaining cart identification information from an RFID label attached to a cart by a security computer at a security station, obtaining first item identification information from a self-service computer transaction record using the cart identification information, obtaining second item identification information from a group of RFID labels attached to a group of items in the cart by the security computer, and comparing the first item identification information in the transaction record to the second item identification information to determine whether the second item identification information equals the first item identification information. |
| US08360205B1 |
System for rotation of a shaft using the force of gravity
A device for generating rotational movement which includes an output shaft supported for rotational movement and at least two one-way clutch mechanisms attached to the output shaft. An inflatable piston (“infton”) assembly is associated with each one-way clutch mechanism and includes a weighted member, an inflatable bladder associated with the weighted member, at least one inlet valve associated with an interior of the inflatable bladder, at least one outlet valve associated with the interior of the inflatable bladder, and a chain associated with the weighted member and extending over and drivingly engaging the respective one-way clutch mechanism. A source of filling fluid supplies each inlet valve. The filling fluid has a density less than that of a buoyancy fluid surrounding the infton assembly. A control system is configured to control the inlet and outlet valves to facilitate filling and discharging of the inflatable bladders. |
| US08360202B1 |
Personnel extraction system
A personnel extraction system preferably includes at least a securement band and an extraction strap. Preferably, the extraction strap is affixed to the securement band and provides at least one attachment loop. The preferred embodiment includes the securement band being selectively configurable to provide the extraction strap in a storage state, an operative state, and a deployed state. In the deployment state, a first connecting hitch is secured to a rescue personnel while a second connection hitch is secured to a downed personnel and the extraction strap accommodates movement of the downed personnel to safety. |
| US08360199B2 |
Integrated mass air flow sensor and broadband silencer
An integrated mass air flow sensor/broadband silencer assembly comprises a molded body having a plurality of walls formed therein. The molded body is over-wrapped with a layer of acoustic foam that, together with the plurality of walls, define a plurality of chambers within an interior volume of the assembly. A mass air flow sensor can be inserted into one of the chambers. The chambers are sized and spaced to provide a uniform velocity, low turbulence air flow to the sensor, and a minimally-restricted air flow to an internal combustion engine located downstream of the assembly. |
| US08360198B2 |
Hearing assistance device
A device structured to assist the hearing of a user by being removably connected to and disposing a user's ear in an enhanced hearing orientation. One embodiment includes an elongated base, which may be disposable, and has a sufficient length to be disposed in an operative position behind the user's ear. Opposite ends of the base include an adhesive material secured to a common side thereof, wherein different ones of said opposite ends are respectively disposed and maintained in confronting engagement with a rear surface of the ear and adjacently disposed portion of the user's head. The base further includes biasing capabilities disposed and structured to exert a sufficient, forwardly and outwardly directed force on the user's ear to dispose and maintain it in the enhanced hearing orientation, when the base is in the operative position. |
| US08360197B2 |
Recirculating ball power steering system
A power steering system includes an input shaft operatively connected to an input member, and a sector gear operatively connected to a pitman arm. A first ball screw is formed on the input shaft. A first ball nut circumscribes the first ball screw and is in torque-transfer communication therewith through a plurality of ball bearings. A first rack is rigidly attached to the first ball nut, and is meshed with the sector gear for torque transfer therewith. A second ball screw is not substantially coaxial with the first ball screw. A second ball nut circumscribes the second ball screw and is in torque-transfer communication with the second ball screw through the ball bearings. A second rack is meshed with the sector gear for torque transfer therewith. An electric motor is configured to selectively supply torque to the sector gear through the second ball screw. |
| US08360193B2 |
Arrangement of steering wheel and operator seat assembly
A control system for a construction vehicle, such as a motor grader, is provided. The control system includes a plurality of joysticks supported by an operator seat assembly of the motor grader. |
| US08360191B2 |
Support system for power train of vehicle
A support system for a power train of a vehicle includes a mount insulator mounted to a vehicle body and provided with a coupling member, a mount bracket coupled with the coupling member. The mount bracket includes a first mount bracket portion extending upward from an upper portion of the power train and a second mount bracket portion extending horizontally from an upper end of the first mount bracket portion. The first mount bracket portion includes a first vertical wall portion extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle body and a second vertical wall portion intersects the first vertical wall portion and extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body. First to fourth fastening members are formed to lower or upper end portions of the first and second vertical wall portions, respectively. A reinforcing member is formed integrally with the second mount bracket portion in a manner of connecting the third and fourth fastening members. |
| US08360189B2 |
Motorcycle frame having protected space therein, and motorcycle incorporating same
A motorcycle includes a main frame member having a front half section extending downward and rearward from a head pipe, and a rear half section extending rearwardly from a lower end of this front half section. A vehicle body part is provided for covering portions of this main frame member. In the motorcycle, the main frame member includes left and right sidewall parts as well as a bottom wall part, and is opened upward. The vehicle body cover is provided so as to cover, from above, an opened portion of the main frame member and a portion of each of the left and right sidewall parts. A lower portion of the rear half section is exposed to the outside as an external appearance design surface. |
| US08360187B2 |
Forklift
A forklift is provided with a front axle (1) for front wheels, a rear axle for rear wheels, an engine (2) for generating driving force of the front axle, a transmission (3) for transmitting power from the engine to the front axle, a radiator (4) mounted behind the engine, a hydraulic pipe insertion plate (5) provided below the radiator and having formed therein a through-hole for a hydraulic pipe, and a shroud-equipped air delivery fan (6) provided in front of the radiator and sending air to the radiator. A flow regulating member (10) is provided on the front surface side of the hydraulic pipe insertion plate, and the flow regulating member is mounted so as not to interfere with the hydraulic pipe and causes air which flows rearward of the vehicle body when the engine is operated to flow toward the shroud-equipped air delivery fan. |
| US08360186B2 |
In-wheel motor drive device
An in-wheel motor drive device (21) includes a motor part A, a reducer part B, a wheel hub C, and a reducer part lubricating mechanism to supply a lubricant oil to the reducer part. The reducer part lubricating mechanism includes a lubricant oil path (25c), a lubricant oil supply port (25d), a lubricant oil discharge port (22b), a circulation oil path (45) passing through a casing (22) to connect the lubricant oil discharge port (22b) to the lubricant oil path (25c), and to return the lubricant oil discharged from the lubricant oil discharge port (22b) to the lubricant oil path (25c), a cooling water path (22e) provided in the casing (22) so as to be in contact with the circulation oil path (45) to cool down the lubricant oil passing through the circulation oil path (45), and a partition member (49) arranged in a contact position between the circulation oil path (45) and the cooling water path (22e), to separate them. |
| US08360184B2 |
Control system for electric hybrid vehicle conversion
A control system is disclosed which permits operation of a Plug-in Hybrid IC-Electric Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) in either parallel electric hybrid or IC modes with a single accelerator pedal. The operation of the electrical equipment is optimized to provide maximum electric power as long as the battery has useable capacity while being completely transparent to the driver. This control system is particularly suitable for converting an existing vehicle to a PHEV. |
| US08360180B2 |
System for controlling a hybrid energy system
A method includes identifying a first operating sequence of a repeated operation of at least one non-traction load. The method also includes determining first and second parameters respectively indicative of a requested energy and output energy of the at least one non-traction load and comparing the determined first and second parameters at a plurality of time increments of the first operating sequence. The method also includes determining a third parameter of the hybrid energy system indicative of energy regenerated from the at least one non-traction load and monitoring the third parameter at the plurality of time increments of the first operating sequence. The method also includes determining at least one of an energy deficiency or an energy surplus associated with the non-traction load of the hybrid energy system and selectively adjusting energy stored within the storage device during at least a portion of a second operating sequence. |
| US08360179B2 |
Machine suspension system having torsion axle assemblies
A suspension system for a machine is disclosed. The suspension system may have a front torsion axle assembly with a first arm connected at a first end to a first shaft, and a first axle connected to a second end of the first arm. The suspension system may also have a rear torsion axle assembly with a second arm connected at a first end to a second shaft, and a second axle connected to a second end of the second arm. The suspension system may further have a frame connected to an end of the first shaft and an end of the second shaft. The second ends of the first and second arms are oriented within common angular quadrants defined by a coordinate system having an axis passing through the first ends of the first and second arms and aligned with a travel direction of the machine. |
| US08360177B2 |
Drive unit for a vehicle for use as a robot in pipe systems, cavities or the like and a vehicle having same
A drive unit for a vehicle is provided for use as a robot in pipe systems, cavities or the like. The drive unit includes at least one ring-like outer wheel and at least one driven magnetic wheel. The outer and the magnetic wheels have axes parallel to each other and are arranged eccentrically to one another, and engage one another such that when rotating relative to the outer wheel, the magnetic wheel delineates with its wheel axis a concentric circle lying within the outer wheel. In such a drive unit, stronger magnetic adhesion is enabled by the outer and magnetic wheels being arranged one behind the other in an axial direction. The engagement between the outer and magnetic wheels is effected by a circular, concentric disk connected securely against rotation to the magnetic wheel and rolls with its outer peripheral surface on the inner peripheral surface of the outer wheel. |
| US08360173B1 |
Positive engagement underreamer and method
An underreamer that can be assembled easily is formed from a tubular body having a flow tube running to a distal end delivering fluid which moves an actuator against the underreamer arms which are hinged to a moveable stop block and stopped to positively seat the arm at the end of a key slot to rigidly hold the underreamer arm in full extension during operations. Once hydraulic pressure is released, a spring moves the arm down the slot to a position where the arm can be removed from the slot in the underreamer body. A lower sub assembly is affixed to the underreamer body to prevent premature back off of the lower sub. Jets are disposed on either side of the underreamer to remove cuttings from the well bore. The tool is adaptable in the field for several hole sizes by adjustment in the length of the stop block and the angle of the flat on the top side of the key. |
| US08360172B2 |
Steering device for downhole tools
An apparatus for drilling a wellbore may include a first section, a second section, and a third section, all of which are rotatably interconnected with pivot bearings and positioned along a drill string. The second section and the third section may be configured to form a controllable bend angle in the drill string. The first section, the second section, and the third section may be configured as sleeves that surround a portion of the drill string. One or more sections may include locking pads that selectively engage a wall of the wellbore. A hydraulic locking device for controlling a direction of rotation of the second section may include one or more brake elements and a reverse spinning sleeve. A first brake element may be used engage the reverse spinning sleeve and a second brake element may be used to engage a drive shaft. |
| US08360167B2 |
Composite seal for a hydraulic hammer
A hydraulic hammer (14) may include a housing (30) having a distal end defining an opening (38), a bushing (54) positioned adjacent the housing distal end, the bushing (54) having an inner guide surface (58) and a distal end (56), and a tool (22) having a proximal section (60) slidably disposed in the bushing inner guide surface (58) and a distal section (62) projecting from the housing (30) through the opening (38). The hydraulic hammer (14) may further include a composite seal (70) having an exterior cover (72) with a proximal end (76) releasably coupled to the bushing (54) and a distal end (77) projecting from the distal end (56) of the bushing (54), the exterior cover distal end (77) defining a recess (90) opening toward the tool (22), and an interior seal (74) having a base (92) disposed in the exterior cover recess (90) and a sealing arm (94) projecting inwardly from the base (92), the sealing arm (94) being configured to sealingly engage the tool (22). |
| US08360165B2 |
Vehicle mounted implement movement control apparatus and methods
Embodiments of the inventive technology present novel methods of controlling the movement, in several degrees of freedom, of an implement mounted to and supported by a motor vehicle (e.g., a tractor). Particular embodiments may focus on the use of actuators attached (at an end) to a movable frame (which may have a shaft running at least partially therethrough) to control the motion of an implement assembly. A related novel method of operation is also disclosed. |
| US08360162B2 |
Hybrid inert gas fire suppression system
A hybrid fire suppression system includes a supply of pressurized inert gas, a pipe network connected in inert gas flow communication to the inert gas supply, a first inert gas nozzle, a second inert gas nozzle, and a water storage cartridge having an interior volume defining a water reservoir storing a limited amount of water. The water reservoir communicates with the second inert gas spray nozzle. The first inert gas nozzle connects with the first terminus for introducing a flooding flow of inert gas only into a first protected space. The second inert gas nozzle connects with the second terminus for introducing a flooding flow of inert gas and the limited amount of water from the water reservoir into the second protected space. |
| US08360160B2 |
Deep water drilling with casing
Methods and apparatus are provided to place a conductor pipe and a casing in a subsea environment. In one embodiment, a conductor pipe is jetted or drilled into the subsea floor. Thereafter, a casing drilling assembly comprising a drill casing and a drilling assembly is connected to the drill pipe using a crossover. The drilling assembly urged into the seafloor until a casing latch on the drilling assembly is engaged with a casing profile of the conductor pipe. During drilling, instrumentation in the drilling assembly may be used to measure geophysical data. The measured data may be used to optimize the drilling process. After the drill casing is engaged with the conductor pipe, cementing may be performed to set the drill casing. |
| US08360159B2 |
Rotating control device with replaceable bowl sleeve
A rotating control device has a bowl including a central passage configured for having a bearing assembly positioned therein. A bowl sleeve ledge is integral the bowl within the central passage. The bowl sleeve is removably disposed within the central passage. Movement of the bowl sleeve along a length of the central passage is constrained by the bowl sleeve ledge and movement of the bowl sleeve radially with respect to the length of the central passage is constrained by a central passage surface. A sealing device of a first configuration is engaged between an exterior surface of the bowl sleeve and the central passage surface. The bearing assembly has an exterior surface of its outer barrel engaged with the interior surface of the bowl sleeve. A sealing device of a second configuration is engaged between the interior surface of the bowl sleeve and the exterior surface of the outer barrel. |
| US08360158B2 |
Overriding a primary control subsystem of a downhole tool
A system that is usable with a well may include a piston, a primary control subsystem and an override subsystem. The piston actuates the downhole tool, and the primary control subsystem may be connected to at least one hydraulic line in order to move the piston in response to pressure that is communicated to the tool via the hydraulic line(s). The override subsystem may be connected to the hydraulic line(s) to override the primary control subsystem and move the piston in response to pressure communicated to the tool via the hydraulic line(s). |
| US08360154B2 |
Flow diverter ring for mud saver valves
A valve assembly includes a main housing having a central bore therethrough, an upper valve subassembly disposed within the main housing, the upper valve subassembly including an upper seat configured to contact a corresponding lower seat of a lower valve subassembly, and a flow diverter ring disposed proximate the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly, wherein the flow diverter ring is configured to direct a fluid flow radially away from the upper seat of the upper valve subassembly. |
| US08360150B2 |
Cement composition containing a substituted ethoxylated phenol surfactant for use in an oil-contaminated well
A well treatment composition comprises a surfactant comprising a substituted ethoxylated phenol having at least one substituent, 1 to 14 moles of ethylene oxide, and the substituent being an alkyl, alkene, or alkyne with a carbon chain length in the range of 4 to 25, wherein the substituted ethoxylated phenol is selected from the group consisting of: ortho-, para-, or meta-substituted ethoxylated phenol; cardanol ethoxylate; derivatives thereof; and combinations of any of the foregoing. Preferably, the surfactant comprises cardanol ethoxylate, a substituted cardanol ethoxylate, and derivatives thereof. A method of cementing in a subterranean formation comprises: introducing a cement composition into the subterranean formation, wherein the cement composition comprises: (A) cement; (B) water; and (C) the surfactant; and allowing the cement composition to set. |
| US08360145B2 |
Selective placement of conformance treatments in multi-zone well completions
Selective placement of conformance treatments in multi-zone well completions. A method includes injecting a relative permeability modifier into a zone and optimizing a ratio of desired fluid to undesired fluid produced from the zone, including adjusting at least one flow control device between fully open and fully closed configurations. Another method includes injecting a relative permeability modifier into multiple zones, one at a time, via respective flow control devices, and then producing fluid from each of the zones. Another method includes identifying which of the zones to treat by, for each of the zones: a) closing flow control devices corresponding to the other zones, and b) evaluating fluid produced from the zone; and injecting a conformance treatment into the zones identified as the zones to treat. |
| US08360144B2 |
Method for geophysical and stratigraphic interpretation using waveform anomalies
A new seismic attribute is disclosed along with its use to locate and classify seismic waveform anomalies and use them to construct objects and from them geologic surfaces (77) and bodies (75) from which hydrocarbon potential (or quality control of the seismic acquisition and processing (71)) may be assessed (79). The seismic attribute is constructed (74) from determinations of phase residues in the seismic data volume (72), preferably using complex trace analysis but alternatively by comparing neighboring waveforms for disappearing waveshape inflections. It is shown that in a data volume of the new attribute, non-zero values form strings and loops that may be associated with objects (geobodies) or surfaces such as unconformities or flooding surfaces. Methods of classification and selection (76) to reduce the number of objects generated are provided. |
| US08360141B2 |
Launching tool with interlock system for downhole cement plug and method
A launching tool with interlock system for a downhole cement plug includes a mandrel having one or more windows therein; an interlock system disposed at the mandrel, the interlock system having a release member; one or more dogs extending from the release member through the one or more windows; a collet disposed at the mandrel and restrained by a restrainer, the restrainer releasable only after release of the interlock system and method. |
| US08360140B2 |
Well head lubricator assembly
A well head lubricator assembly including an elongated rigid tubular body defining an interior chamber open at a lower end to receive a plunger at a well head. The plunger is slidably positioned within the chamber in response to forces or loads acting thereon and has a seat arranged toward an upper end thereof. An upper end of the tubular body is closed. An axially elongated one-piece thermoplastic ether ester elastomer spring is slidingly positioned within the interior chamber of the tubular body. One end of the spring is seated on the seat of the plunger. The spring defines an elongated bore opening to opposed ends thereof. Moreover, the spring is provided with a plurality of axially spaced flange sections along a length thereof for guiding the spring for endwise sliding movement on an inside diameter of the tubular body. Any two flange sections on the spring are axially separated by an energy absorbing section for allowing the spring to react to energy imparted to the plunger. Each energy absorbing section on the spring defines a wall having a lateral thickness ranging between about 20% to about 30% of an axial length of the energy absorbing section extending axially between any two adjacent flange sections and such that radial expansion of the energy absorbing sections is limited to about an outermost edge of the flange sections. |
| US08360130B2 |
Active tension device for a window covering
A tension device that prevents a window covering from operating properly until the tension device is installed. The tension device incorporates a drive wheel, casing, anchoring arm and drive stud. The drive stud has two sections, one keyed and one cylindrical. Before the tension device is installed, the keyed section of the drive stud engages the drive wheel and the casing, thereby preventing them from rotating relative to each other. When the tension device is installed, the drive stud must be inserted into the anchoring arm causing the keyed section of the drive stud to disengage the drive wheel and thereby allow the drive wheel to rotate relative to the casing. |
| US08360129B2 |
Peeling device
The present invention relates to a peeling device which peels off a reinforcing sheet stuck on a substrate, including: a supporting unit which supports one main surface of a laminate having the substrate and the reinforcing sheet; a plate-shaped flexible member to be attached to the other main surface of the laminate; a plurality of pads fixed to a surface of the flexible member lying opposite to the laminate side; a plurality of rods each of which is coupled to any one of the plurality of pads; a plurality of driving devices by which the plurality of rods are made to move, respectively, in their individual axial directions; and a control device by which a position of each of the plurality of rods is controlled on an individual basis, in which each of the plurality of pads is coupled to any one of the plurality of the rods via any one of a plurality of joints so that each pad is allowed to be pivotable centering on a vicinity of an intersection point of a centerline of the rod coupled thereto with a surface of the reinforcing sheet facing the substrate side or a surface of the substrate facing the reinforcing sheet side, and in which the one main surface of the laminate is supported by the supporting unit, and at the same time, the position of each of the plurality of rods is controlled by the control device so that the other main surface of the laminate is subjected to bending deformation in sequence from one-end side thereof. |
| US08360128B2 |
Transfer tool
A transfer tool of the present invention comprises a transfer head which has a folding back guide portion for folding and guiding a transfer tape and a pair of outer walls for supporting side ends of the folding back guide and in which a transfer tape passage is formed between the outer walls, a refill for holding at least the transfer head, a case capable of holding the refill such that the refill can be inserted into and pulled out from the case in one direction, and a head cap which is pivotally mounted on the case through a pivot shaft portion and rotatable between a close position where the transfer head is covered and an open position where the transfer head is exposed, wherein the head cap is located outside an inserting and pulling out locus of the transfer head when the head cap is disposed in the close position. |
| US08360126B2 |
Tow ejector foot for a fiber placement head
A motorized head for applying fiber composite material to an application surface includes a drive roll assembly for applying fiber composite material to an application surface. The drive roll assembly includes a drive roll and a backup roll and a drive roll nip formed between the drive roll and the backup roll. At least one cutter is mounted on the drive roll for cutting fiber composite material, and an ejector mechanism is mounted on the drive roll behind the cutter mechanism. The ejector mechanism positively displaces the leading end of the cut tow material away from the surface of the drive roll to ensure that the cut tow material does not misfeed as it approaches the fiber path chute downstream from the cutter. |
| US08360124B2 |
Apparatus and process for in-mold labeling
An apparatus and process for use in an in-mold labeling application utilizes a rolled label sheet having a multiplicity of pre-printed non-adhesive labels and a pre-printed registration mark associated with each of the labels, a sensor for detecting each of the registration marks to enable alignment of the label sheet in a predetermined longitudinal position before labels are cut therefrom; a set of driven pinch rolls for moving it forward or backward; a circumferential die cutter for cutting one or more labels from the label sheet; a passive float roll following the die cutter for creating a controlled loop in the label sheet that permits the die cutter to operate independently of a vacuum conveyor that follows the float roll, the vacuum conveyor including a sensor to detect each of the registration marks for enabling alignment of the label sheet in a position of registration thereon; and a plurality of vacuum plenums along the vacuum conveyor for selectively receiving hold down vacuum from an external source for maintaining the label sheet in its position of registration during conveyance to a predetermined label removal position, the hold down vacuum then being released to permit removal, by an external pick and place device, of one or more of the previously-cut labels. |
| US08360123B2 |
Tag label producing apparatus
This disclosure discloses a tag label producing apparatus comprising: at least one feeding roller; a printing device; and an apparatus antenna; and a coordination control portion that controls in coordination the feeding roller, the printing device, and the apparatus antenna, such that information transmission/reception is performed between an RFID circuit element and the apparatus antenna when an IC circuit part of the RFID circuit element provided to a tag medium is fed downstream in a transport direction from a segment from a nearest roller to the apparatus antenna along a feeding path. |
| US08360118B2 |
Fuel system for a floating unit, and method for the operation thereof
A fuel system is disclosed for a floating unit, including a fuel passage extending from a filler neck to a motor, a measuring unit disposed in the fuel passage through which at least part of the fuel flowing along the fuel passage flows, for measuring a sulfur content of the fuel through the measuring unit. |
| US08360116B1 |
Standalone ice dispenser
A standalone ice dispenser delivers ice in bagged form. The device uses a cone-shaped drum with an upwardly oriented mount that receives and stores the ice is gravitationally delivered to the drum from an ice maker. A motor rotates the drum such that a fin therein causes ice to advance toward and eventually out of the mouth of the drum. A bagging system uses a hopper that receives ice from the drum such that a blower to blow open a bag and thereafter a trap door drops allowing ice to drop from the hopper into the bag. Thereafter, the bagged ice drops to a floor panel which raises the bagged ice into a chute. Weight sensors attached to the drum determine whether the drum is empty or full and control operation of the ice maker. |
| US08360114B2 |
Apparatus and method for filing a syringe
An apparatus for assisting a user in loading a syringe with medication from a medicinal vial comprising an elongated guide having a syringe well and a vial well, the syringe well having a syringe well opening along a surface of the guide. A syringe guide member inserted into and removable from the syringe well through the syringe well opening, the syringe guide member having a bore for receiving and guiding the syringe. The vial well receiving the vial. The guide has a wall separating the syringe well and the vial well, the wall having an aperture formed therethrough providing communication between one end of the bore and the vial, the recess mutually adjacent with the wall. The guide includes a displaceable cover enclosing the syringe well and the vial well. The guide may also include a magnifying element coupled to the cover. |
| US08360112B2 |
Method and device for filling pressure gas containers
The inventive method for filling a pressure gas container from a gas source pressure with a high pressure for a predetermined filling time selected or calculated prior to filling and at a determined temperature consists in forming a connection in the form of a fluid passage between the source and container, in carrying out a plurality of the passage opening-closing sequences during predetermined sub-intervals of the predetermined filling time, wherein the curve of a current pressure in the container follows, according to a time, a theoretical straight line linking the pressure measured prior to filling and after thereof during the filling time, the predetermined filling time is subdivided into a number of the time sub-intervals ranging from two to several hundreds and having respective determined duration, preferably ranging from 5 and 20 seconds. |
| US08360107B2 |
Pressure compensating device for fluid-conducting systems
The invention relates to a pressure compensating device for fluid-conducting systems, with a pressure container (1) for the pressure compensation, an elastic diaphragm (3), which forms a cavity (5) for receiving the fluid, and a pressure chamber of gas (7) adjoining the cavity (5). The diaphragm (3) is connected via a connecting mount (15) to a connecting pipe (17) for the fluid. A pipe (21) for the fluid, led separately to the connecting pipe (17), extends via the connecting mount (15) into the cavity (5), while being concentrically encircled by a hollow cylinder (25) shaped like a sieve, which defines an annular space (27) and opens into an end piece (29), into which the pipe (21) opens. Moreover the end piece (29) features sieve-like perforations (31) for the fluid to flow out into the cavity (5). The separately led pipe (21) extends into the fluid-conducting system, while the connecting pipe (17) for the fluid opens into the fluid-conducting system. |
| US08360106B2 |
Curved pliant film valves
Disclosed is a one-way valve and sealing assemblage wherein an affixed curved pliant film device, a compressible spring, and a reciprocal curved channel surface automatically work cooperatively to permit forward material flow above a predetermined fluid pressure threshold yet check reverse material backflow at any pressure. |
| US08360101B2 |
Arrangement of a filling and filtering device in a valve body
The invention relates to a valve device of the cylinder valve type, comprising a filling coupling (11) connected directly to the inlet (2) of the valve without passing via the valve shut-off device (4, 8). A filtering element (12) is positioned in a chamber at the intersection between the inlet to the valve and the device for shutting-off the valve. This allows the filter to be arranged optimally from the accessibility point of view and also from the gas flow point of view. Specifically, the filter is arranged in the chamber in such a way as to filter the stream of gas flowing towards the outlet (3) of the valve via the shut-off device, thus protecting the latter, and also in such a way as not to filter the stream of filling gas flowing from the filling connector of the valve towards the inlet. |
| US08360099B2 |
Failure protection apparatus for a pressure control assembly
A failure protection apparatus including an air source providing air having an air pressure, a first valve in fluid communication with the air source permitting a control fluid to flow to a pressure control assembly when the air pressure is at least a minimum pressure and preventing flow of the control fluid to the assembly when the air pressure is below a minimum pressure, the assembly containing control fluid at a predetermined pressure that is maintained when the air pressure is below the minimum pressure, a second valve in communication with the air source permitting communication of air between an inlet and an outlet when the air pressure is below the minimum pressure, a third valve in communication with the air source, a pressure container in communication with the third valve outlet and having an outlet that feeds air to the second valve to actuate a warning device attached thereto. |
| US08360096B2 |
Low pressure rise rate pilot operated poppet relief valve
A relief valve for a hydraulic machine that combines a poppet valve assembly and a pilot valve assembly together using a connector pin wherein internal fluid passageways within the poppet and pilot spools provide a fluid flow path between the inlet of the valve and a cavity disposed between the poppet and pilot. As a result of the internal passageways fluid is metered to the interior cavity to provide additional control and stability within the relief valve. |
| US08360095B2 |
High-pressure valve
Disclosed in one aspect is a valve comprising (a) a valve body having a poppet valve chamber with an axis running there through; (b) a seat having a seat sealing surface, and a outer-seat surface, the seat located axially within the poppet valve chamber; and (c) a poppet having a poppet sealing surface, the poppet being located axially within the poppet valve chamber; wherein a poppet-seat interface is created between at least a portion of the seat sealing surface and at least a portion of the poppet sealing surface, the poppet-seat interface being at an angle β of from 20 to 90° to the axis. In one embodiment the seat is removable, allowing the geometry of at least the poppet head surface and/or the seat inside surface, which defines a fluid flow-path cross-section, to be tailored. |
| US08360091B2 |
Ventilation for a reducing agent tank
Ventilation for a reducing agent tank, having a first reducing agent tank which is provided with a first reducing agent fill opening, a fuel tank which is provided with a fuel fill opening and a ventilation device, as well as a first line through which the first reducing agent tank is connected to the fuel tank. |
| US08360090B2 |
Schrader valve/Presta valve dual-purpose valve cap
A Schrader (American) valve/Presta (French) valve dual-purpose valve cap includes a casing comprising an axle hole, an end portion, and a through hole; a rotating device comprising a rod-like body and two heads, each head having a screw hole, the screw hole of one head being adapted for receiving a Presta valve, the screw hole of the other head being adapted for receiving a Schrader valve, the rod-like body comprising an accommodation chamber, two through holes and an annular groove, the annular groove defining an annular air passage, the rod-like body defining a through hole; two O-shaped seal rings sealed the annular air passage; and a ball accommodated in the accommodation chamber; wherein two semispherical recesses respectively formed on an inside wall of the accommodation chamber; the ball has a radius smaller than the radius of the semispherical recesses and greater than the radius of the through hole of each of the two heads. |
| US08360086B2 |
Omnibus quasi-hydrosystem
An omnibus quasi-hydrosystem is disclosed. The omnibus quasi-hydrosystem includes a module base, at least two channel switching members mounted in the module base, at least two inlets formed in the module base and at least two outlets formed in the module base. The inlets allow fluid entering into the omnibus quasi-hydrosystem, the channel switching members alter the fluid path in the omnibus quasi-hydro system to a desired outlet to output the fluid. In addition, a modular omnibus quasi-hydrosystem is also disclosed herein. |
| US08360085B2 |
Top support structure of tent frame
A top support structure of a tent frame includes a top pivot holder (1), to which a plurality of support poles (10) are pivotally coupled. An elastic member (9) is provided between each support pole and the pivot holder. The elastic member folds and stores elasticity energy when the tent frame is folded and automatically springs the support poles when the elasticity energy is released. A control holder (2) is pivotally coupled to the bottom of the pivot holder, and the control holder has lock pieces (211) which can prop the support poles up to limit their rotation and release grooves (212) adjacent to the lock pieces which can release the limitation. On the top of pivot grooves (12) of the pivot holder are provided with position-limited devices (D) to prevent the support poles from rotating upwards. |
| US08360084B1 |
Motorcycle canopy
A motorcycle canopy to protect a motorcycle and a motorcyclist during a rain storm including a collapsible main frame with sub-frames, formed of cylindrical fiberglass rods, pivotally attached to a pivotal body, a waterproof canopy body having sleeves in which the sub-frames are disposed, a mesh screen disposed in the front and rear end of the canopy body for air circulation and heat exhaustion, and a window disposed in the canopy body proximal to a center frame. Securement straps attached to the center frame, a cross-strap disposed across the center frame, and front straps disposed between an upper frame and a motorcycle handlebar secure the device in place during windy conditions. |
| US08360081B2 |
Sunshade
A sunshade includes a shaft supporting a set of umbrella ribs mounted for movement on the shaft between opened and closed positions. The sunshade further includes a cloth coupled to the umbrella ribs for movement therewith relative to the shaft to provide a protective cover in the opened position of the set of umbrella ribs. |
| US08360079B2 |
Solar lighting arrangement for outdoor umbrella
A solar lighting arrangement, which is incorporated with an outdoors umbrella, includes a solar energy collector mounted on top of the outdoors umbrella, a chain lighting arrangement, an attachable lighting system, and a light support, which is adjustably mounted along a supporting shaft of the outdoors umbrella at a position within the shadowing area of the awning frame, including a plurality of supporting arms radially extended from the supporting shaft, and a plurality of illuminators connecting to the supporting arms respectively in a movably suspended manner such that by selectively adjusting a position of the light support along the supporting shaft, the illuminators are suspendedly self-repositioned for maximizing a light coverage area within the shadowing area. |
| US08360077B2 |
Headband with pliable ends
This invention provides a headband with pliable ends. More specifically, the headband with pliable ends has a curvilinear body integrally formed from an arcuate midsection and two pliable end sections. Each pliable end section extends from opposite ends of the midsection. The arcuate midsection structured and arranged to conform to a generalized top of head shape. The pliable end sections are each structured and arranged to be selectively deformable to conform to a user's side of head shape. |
| US08360068B2 |
Ear cup
Example embodiments relate to an ear cup for use in a hearing protector unit including two ear cups, and a device to fasten the hearing protector unit to a wearer' s head, the device being connected to the ear cups. The ear cup may include a cup portion with a support surface; and a sealing device, placed against the support surface of the cup portion and intended to bear against a wearer' s head in an area around an ear of the wearer. The sealing device may include a sealing portion of a soft material, which includes a peripherally extending circumference slot and which, in its periphery area, bears against the support surface with an opening of the circumference slot directed towards the cup portion, a sound-attenuating ring, situated in the circumference slot of the sealing portion, and a clamping ring of a rigid material, situated in the circumference slot of the sealing portion to expand the sealing portion produced from soft material, the sealing portion being provided with a peripherally extending flange, introduced in the cup portion such that it bears against an inner side of the cup portion, whereby the clamping ring bears against the flange and presses the flange against the inner side of the cup portion for fastening the sealing device to the cup portion. |
| US08360066B2 |
Headrest for a patient-bearing surface
A headrest for a patient-bearing surface, having an approximately horseshoe-shaped form and comprising a central section (14) for supporting the back of the head or the forehead, the bearing surface thereof being at least approximately spherical shell-shaped, also comprising two side sections (16) which are arranged at a distance from each other and whose bearing surfaces conform at least approximately to a common cylindrical surface whose axis is parallel to a symmetrical line (20) of the headrest extending between the side surfaces (16). A cheekbone support (18), which protrudes in the direction of the other side section (16), is provided on each side section (16). |
| US08360061B2 |
Portable breathing device
A pulsed breathing device has a base unit containing a motor and control circuit and a detachable head unit containing a valve, driven by the motor, which can interrupt the flow of air being breathed. |
| US08360059B2 |
Respirator with a breathing tube system
A breathing tube system for connection to a respirator (2), which is provided with a tube heater, avoids a local increase in temperature during the heating of the tube (4, 7). Resistance wires (9, 10) are connected to one another on the breathing tubes (4, 7) in the form of a series connection and are contacted at the respirator (2) in the area of an inspiration port (3) and of an expiration port (6). |
| US08360057B2 |
Medication inhaler for dispensing multiple capsules
A medication inhaler for concurrently delivering multiple doses of medications including an inhaler body having a medication container chamber for receiving a plurality of medication containers and at least one air passage connecting the medication container chamber with external air, a mouthpiece axially engageable with the inhaler body and having a mouthpiece chamber for communication with a patient's respiratory system, and a hollow medication delivery needle communicating with the mouthpiece chamber. A medication delivery needle penetrates the medication containers when the inhaler is actuated and has at least one opening for passing exterior air and medication from interior spaces of the medication containers and through the needle to mouthpiece. |
| US08360056B2 |
Medicine sprayer
A body section 2 is formed with a capsule insertion hole 6. A movable section 3 includes a capsule puncture needle 9 arranged to be moved into or out of the capsule insertion hole 6. The body section 2 and the movable section 3 are connected to be relatively pivoted at least between a posture in which the capsule insertion hole 6 is exposed, and a posture in which the capsule insertion hole 6 is hid by the body section 2. The body section 2 (a side wall 6e of a protrusion 6a) is arranged to restrict the advancing movement of the capsule puncture needle 9 in the state in which the body section 2 and the movable section 3 are in the posture in which the capsule insertion hole 6 is exposed. |
| US08360049B2 |
Windscreen for fire
A windscreen having base positionable adjacent a fire, a first body portion removeably secured to the base in a substantially vertical orientation, and a securing member connected to the first body portion and capable of removeably securing a second body portion above or next to the first body portion. |
| US08360048B2 |
Self-heating systems and methods for rapidly heating a comestible substance
Self-heating containers comprise a reaction chamber and a heating chamber. The heating chamber is sized to contain a substance to be heated. The reaction chamber contains reactants which, when contacted, exothermically react. The reaction chamber is divided into a first compartment and a second compartment with a barrier therebetween. The barrier comprises a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion. The first barrier portion is attached to a reaction chamber wall and has an opening sized to allow reactants to flow through from one compartment to the other. The second barrier portion is attached to the first barrier portion to close the opening. The barrier can be opened by moving an actuator into engagement with the second barrier portion to dislodge the second barrier portion from the first barrier portion and thereby open the barrier. |
| US08360044B2 |
Structure and method for stabilizing an archers hand
An archer's hand support structure apparatus and method of use is disclosed to help stabilize an archer's hand during string draw and string release of an archer's bow. The archer's hand support structure apparatus includes an archer's bow that has a handle portion and a rigid member that is affixed to the handle portion, the rigid member is constructed of substantially non-pliant material adapted to encase the archer's hand, the rigid member having a finger aperture portion extending adjacent to an archer's distal hand portion and a wrist aperture portion extending adjacent to an archer's proximal hand portion. The rigid member also includes an expansion slot therethrough disposed substantially adjacent to the wrist aperture portion to temporarily expand the wrist aperture portion for operationally accommodating an archer's fingers communication from the wrist aperture to the finger aperture. |
| US08360043B2 |
Pump action sporting air rifle
Pump action sporting rifle comprising a barrel with sheath, bottle of compressed air or CO2, a bottle hand-guard, a valve, a butt, a trigger, a trigger-guard, a safety catch, a hammer fixed to its disc, with said hammer facing the valve with an anti-fall safety device between the two, and a chassis that consists of a drag skid, a sliding rod joined by one of its ends to the drag skid and by the other to a slider device, the mentioned slider device consisting of an interior stop, an upper face supporting a tilting part with an upper arm that encloses a chamber. |
| US08360037B2 |
Oil separation apparatus for blow-by gas
An oil separation apparatus may include an intake housing provided with a gas inlet for the blow-by gas to be sucked therein, a plurality of cyclone which is formed as a cone, is disposed around the intake housing, is communicated with intake housing through an intake passage and separates oil from the blow-by gas, wherein a gas exit is formed to the upper side of the cyclone for discharging the blow-by gas and an oil outlet is formed to the lower side of the cyclone for discharging the separated oil, an exhaust housing cylinder which is provided with an gas outlet, is communicated with the gas exit and discharges the blow-by gas through the gas outlet and a control unit which is disposed within the intake and exhaust housing and selectively opens the intake passages according to intake pressure of the engine. |
| US08360035B2 |
Internal combustion engine and method for controlling the internal combustion engine
During starting of an engine that has a circulation path through which argon, used as working gas, is circulated back to a combustion chamber and that uses hydrogen as fuel during operation, oxygen is supplied in such a manner that the oxygen supply ratio is higher than that used during normal operation. Thus, the entirety of hydrogen supplied into the combustion chamber reacts with oxygen and is burned. When the engine is being started, because gas is not turbulent enough, hydrogen and oxygen are likely to be mixed poorly. Therefore, when oxygen is supplied in such a manner that the ratio of oxygen supply amount to the hydrogen supply amount is higher than the theoretical ratio, even if oxygen and hydrogen are not mixed so well, the chance that hydrogen contacts oxygen is increased. As a result, combustion takes place in a more appropriate manner, which improves the engine startability. |
| US08360033B2 |
Lubricant vent structure of fuel pump for vehicle
A lubricant vent structure of a fuel pump for a vehicle, may include a mounting unit mounted to a pumping unit, a plurality of link units having a support link and a stopper restricting a rotatable range of the support link, wherein the plurality of link units is pivotally connected each other in a series by an elastic member respectively and the elastic member elastically supports the support link in the direction of the maximum rotatable range thereof, and a vent tube having an open end fixed to the last support link of the link units and communicating with a lubrication space of the pumping unit of the fuel pump, wherein the support link of the first link of the link units is pivotally fixed to the mounting unit of the fuel pump. |
| US08360027B2 |
Fuel tank system and related method of assembly
A fuel tank system, engine employing such a system, and related method of assembly are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the fuel tank system includes a fuel tank, a mounting bracket, and at least three fastening devices. The tank includes an outer wall that defines an internal cavity, and first and second channels extending between first and second opposed outer surfaces of the wall through the cavity. The bracket has first and second protrusions, where the first and second protrusions respectively extend into the first and second channels, respectively. First and second ones of the fastening devices are respectively fastened to the first and second protrusions, respectively, so as to prevent movement of the protrusions out of the channels, thereby securing the bracket to the tank. A third of the fastening devices allows the bracket to be secured to another engine component. |
| US08360025B2 |
Intake manifold with overmolded structural enhancement
A composite intake manifold coupled to a V-engine is provided. The composite intake manifold includes a supporting member overmolded in an unsupported region of the composite intake manifold. |
| US08360024B2 |
Method and device for controlling at least one glow plug of a motor vehicle
A device and a method for controlling at least one glow plug of a motor vehicle are described. The at least one glow plug is controlled as a function of the operating state of the internal combustion engine. In this case, the control is effected as a function of a variable which depends on the exhaust gas temperature and/or as a function of the fulfillment of a fuel quantity condition and/or time condition. |
| US08360023B2 |
Engine including valve lift mechanism with oil flow control features
A valve lift mechanism may include a housing member and a plunger. The housing member may define a first annular wall including a first oil passage. An inner circumference of the first annular wall may define a first continuous region along an axial extent corresponding to the first oil passage from a first location on the inner circumference and circumferentially offset from the first oil passage to a second location on the inner circumference. The plunger may be located within the housing member within the first annular wall. The plunger may define a second annular wall including a series of apertures axially aligned with the first oil passage and separated from one another by an outer circumferential region of the second annular wall. The outer circumferential region may abut the first continuous region of the first annular wall to inhibit oil flow past the outer circumferential region. |
| US08360020B2 |
Method for determining a scanning ratio for a valve for a camshaft adjuster
A method for determining a scanning ratio for a characteristic curve for the operation of an electromechanical valve for a camshaft adjuster in which an ambient temperature and a relative motion of a camshaft are determined at a reference point. In accordance with a specific ambient temperature and other operating conditions such as e.g., engine rpm, a holding scanning ratio is determined. Subsequently, at least one additional scanning ratio of an operating state is determined for a scanning ratio characteristic for the valve. |
| US08360018B2 |
V-type internal combustion engine with variable valve train
A V-type internal combustion engine having a variable valve train for keeping the height of the internal combustion engine low. Disclosed is a V-type internal combustion engine with a variable valve train that uses an actuator to vary the phase/lift amount of camshafts. The actuator is mounted on head covers for each of a plurality of cylinder blocks arranged in a V-shape. The actuator is attached to a lateral surface positioned opposite the offset direction of the head covers. In an embodiment, the actuator is attached to a lateral surface of the head covers and positioned close to the inside of the V banks. |
| US08360017B2 |
Part-load control in a split-cycle engine
An engine includes a crankshaft rotatable about a crankshaft axis. A compression piston is slidably received within a compression cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the compression piston is operable to reciprocate through an intake stroke and a compression stroke during a single rotation of the crankshaft. An expansion (power) piston is slidably received within an expansion cylinder and operatively connected to the crankshaft such that the expansion piston is operable to reciprocate through an expansion stroke and an exhaust stroke during a single rotation of the crankshaft. At least two crossover passages interconnect the compression and expansion cylinders. Each of the at least two crossover passages includes a crossover compression (XovrC) valve and a crossover expansion (XovrE) valve operable to define a pressure chamber therebetween. The engine controls and maximizes engine efficiency at part-load by utilizing only selected crossover passages. |
| US08360015B2 |
Engine fuel reformer monitoring
Systems and methods for monitoring a fuel reformer which reforms ethanol into a reformate gas comprising H2, CO, and CH4 for fueling an engine are provided. Degradation of the fuel reformer may be indicated based on an amount of ethanol injected into the fuel reformer and an amount of at least one of H2, CO, and CH4 produced by the fuel reformer. |
| US08360014B2 |
Engine housing enclosure
In the context of an enclosure-housed engine in which an engine 10 is housed within an enclosure 2, the present invention is such that arranged in an intake chamber 8A, separate from one or more chambers where a radiator 18 and the engine are disposed, there is engine intake equipment comprising an air cleaner 22 and an intake silencer 23; the constitution being such that at least one wall face of said intake chamber is subjected to a cooling airstream, intake and exhaust of which are driven by a radiator fan; and the constitution being such that the radiator fan 19 is driven, regardless of whether or not engine coolant within the radiator is circulating, when outside air temperature is greater than or equal to a prescribed temperature. |
| US08360006B2 |
Cat litter box liner with an absorbent scratch resistant pad
A first embodiment of this invention is a cat litter bag composed of a thin plastic bag having a scratch resistant surface on the upper surface to avoid being damaged when used by cats. The scratch resistant material also serves to absorb cat urine to minimize odor during use. By a second embodiment the cat litter bag is shown filled with clean litter for convenience and travel. |
| US08360003B2 |
Plasma reactor with uniform process rate distribution by improved RF ground return path
In a plasma reactor having an RF plasma source power applicator at its ceiling, an integrally formed grid liner includes a radially extending plasma confinement ring and an axially extending side wall liner. The plasma confinement ring extends radially outwardly near the plane of a workpiece support surface from a pedestal side wall, and includes an annular array of radial slots, each of the slots having a narrow width corresponding to an ion collision mean free path length of a plasma in the chamber. The side wall liner covers an interior surface of the chamber side wall and extends axially from a height near a height of said workpiece support surface to the chamber ceiling. |
| US08360002B2 |
In-situ flux measurement devices, methods, and systems
In-situ flux measurement methods, devices, and systems are provided. According to some embodiments, an in-situ molecular flux device generally comprises a electrically conductive container configured to hold a precursor material, a heat source proximate the electrically conductive container to heat the precursor material to release ions such that an ion current is produced; and a current-measuring device in electrical communication with the electrically conductive container to measure the ion current associated with the heated precursor material. Other embodiments are also claimed and described. |
| US08360001B2 |
Process for deposition of semiconductor films
Chemical vapor deposition processes utilize chemical precursors that allow for the deposition of thin films to be conducted at or near the mass transport limited regime. The processes have high deposition rates yet produce more uniform films, both compositionally and in thickness, than films prepared using conventional chemical precursors. In preferred embodiments, a higher order silane is employed to deposit thin films containing silicon that are useful in the semiconductor industry in various applications such as transistor gate electrodes. |
| US08359996B2 |
System and method for coating tubes
The present invention relates to coating of tubes, and more particularly to a system and method for coating and/or renovating deteriorated or pitted tubes to extend tube life and enhance performance. Using this system and method a thin coating is applied to the interior of a tube such that the coating is uniform in thickness and covers all regions of the tube. The coating material may be selected to minimize changes in heat transfer or may be selected to provide for the change in working fluid within the tube such that the working fluid does not negatively interact with the tube material. |
| US08359995B2 |
Hybrid apparatus for applying coating to products and methods of use thereof
A hybrid apparatus for applying coating to product is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the apparatus includes a first vibratory frame assembly in communication with a first pan assembly, wherein the first pan assembly receives a product and a coating and applies the coating to the products using vibratory motion. The apparatus further includes, a drum assembly that having a drum, wherein products and coating are received from the first pan assembly and the coating is further applied to the products using a rotational motion of the drum, and a second vibratory frame assembly in communication with a second pan assembly, the second pan assembly having at least one of a separator tray assembly and an alignment tray assembly, wherein the second pan assembly receives the products and coating from the rotating drum and at least one of separates and aligns the products using vibratory motion. |
| US08359993B1 |
Method and device for releasably latching a water vessel to a line
A method and device to permit a water vessel to releasably capture a line. The water vessel may include a step cutout portion to receive a line capturing device. The line capturing device includes a device housing having a capturing notch and a pivotal guide arm. The guide arm may be pivoted to a deployed position. When presented with a line, a water vessel with the line-capturing device may capture the line by deploying the guide arm to guide the line into the notch, where the line is releasably latched. Also included is a system for towing a smaller water vessel to a parent vessel, the smaller water vessel including a device for capturing a line. The line may be attached at one end to the parent vessel. |
| US08359991B2 |
Bi-directional seaming machine and method of seaming
A seaming machine and method are provided for seaming segments of sheet material to one another to form larger sheets. The machine typically includes a frame with a pair of spaced seaming devices mounted thereon for respectively seaming opposed edges of the segments of sheet material to one another. The process allows for the seaming of multiple sheet segments while the sheet segments remain atop a work surface. Relative back and forth movement between various components and the work surface typically facilitate the process. |
| US08359987B2 |
Depth adjustment assembly for a disc opener of an agricultural implement
A disc hub assembly includes a shouldered spindle that is secured to a disc opener frame and to which a depth adjustment arm and a gauge wheel arm are connected. The disc hub, to which a ground opener disc is mounted, is disposed on the spindle in a manner that allows the disc to rotate around the spindle. A gauge wheel is connected to the gauge wheel arm. When the depth adjustment arm is rotated between depth setting positions the gauge wheel arm is also rotated. As the gauge wheel is connected to the gauge wheel arm, rotation of the gauge wheel arm causes rotation of the gauge wheel. The depth adjustment arm is spring biased into engagement with an arc of notches on the disc opener frame. The notches define a range of positions at which the depth adjustment arm may be positioned. |
| US08359978B2 |
Projectiles for marking targets and methods of manufacturing such projectiles
Projectiles containing a fluorophore composition comprising a fluorophore compound and an activator composition comprising an activator compound for marking targets are disclosed. Some embodiments include a nose structure with a cavity radially segmented into a plurality of radially isolated compartments by at least one laterally and radially extending internal wall. Additional embodiments include a fore compartment and an aft compartment sealed by a septum. Yet additional embodiments include at least one pressurized cavity and may further include a plunger positioned and configured to pierce each pressurized cavity. Methods of manufacturing target marking projectiles and methods of marking targets are also disclosed. |
| US08359976B2 |
Method and machine for aligning flexographic printing plates on printing cylinders
The invention relates to a method and a machine for aligning at least two flexographic printing plates on at least one printing cylinder. The method comprises the steps of capturing an image relating to a first plate, capturing the image relating to a portion of a second plate, reprocessing the image captured from the first plate so as to obtain a portion thereof corresponding to the image relating to the portion of the second plate, concurrently displaying said reprocessed image and the image captured from the second plate and aligning said two images. |
| US08359975B2 |
Process and apparatus having an adjustable heater
This invention provides an apparatus and process for forming a printing form from a photosensitive element having an exterior surface and a composition layer capable of being partially liquefied. The apparatus includes a displaceable heater for heating the composition layer, means for removing at least a portion of the composition layer from the element, and means for displacing the displaceable heater to a predetermined distance from the exterior surface. Positioning the displaceable heater at the predetermined distance assures reproducible removal of the liquefied composition from the various types of photosensitive elements that can be thermally treated in the apparatus, resulting in the printing forms having improved relief surface uniformity. |
| US08359970B2 |
Automated dual cooking surface grill and method
A dual-sided cooking device is provided that determines whether the upper and lower cooking platens are substantially parallel to each other when in a cooking position. In addition, the method and device in accordance with the invention are capable of identifying a type of food item placed on a lower cooking platen of a two-sided cooking grill. |
| US08359969B2 |
Apparatus, method and kit for retrofitting an indoor water dispenser of an existing refrigerator
Apparatuses, methods and systems for retrofitting an indoor water dispenser of an existing refrigerator having a water outlet with one or more components to provide secondary water conditioning to dispense an enhanced beverage using water from the water outlet of the indoor water dispenser are provided. |
| US08359967B2 |
Fluid end reinforced with a composite material
A fluid end for a reciprocating pump is provided that includes a base material less subject to abrasion, corrosion, erosion and/or wet fatigue than conventional fluid end materials such as carbon steel, and a reinforcing composite material for adding stress resistance and reduced weight to the fluid end. |
| US08359965B2 |
Apparatus and method for broad spectrum radiation attenuation
A panel for use in assembling a radiation, microbial, acoustically, and ballistically shielded space within a building or other personal space. The panel is comprised of an ionizing radiation shielding material layer, a non-ionizing radiation shielding layer, an anti microbial treated layer, a bulletproof layer and an acoustical shielding layer. A method for using said panels to create a radiation, microbial, acoustic, and ballistic shielded space. |
| US08359964B2 |
Weapon system with caseless ammunition
A weapon system uses caseless munitions. In order to permit a further use of the weapon system essentially without delay on jamming, a configuration of the weapon system is disclosed that has a weapon barrel, a projectile magazine with individual chambers and a propellant charge magazine with individual chambers. In order to guarantee a firing position, the projectile magazine and the propellant charge magazine, may be moved relative to the weapon barrel. The projectile magazine has a chamber located in a discharge position in which an ejector device for the projectile in the chamber may be activated. A further chamber of the projectile magazine may be loaded in the movement position for the projectile magazine and the propellant charge magazine has a chamber, located in a discharge position in which an ejector device for the propellant charge in the chamber may be activated. The further chamber of the propellant charge magazine may be loaded in the movement position of the propellant charge magazine. |
| US08359963B2 |
Expandable shape charge positioner
An expandable linear explosive shape charge positioner for severing tubular members whereby a plurality of arc-shaped charge chambers are positioned along the same plane and adjacent to the interior walls of the tubular members and detonated to sever the tubular members. The invention is placed within a tubular member and includes a remotely extendible framework having remotely detonable linear explosive shape charges enclosed therein. When in the collapsed position, the apparatus passes through constrictions within the tubular members. When extended, the framework is positioned transversely to the axis of the tubular member with the shape charges positioned adjacent the interior walls thereof. Shape charge chambers with angled ends are presented to provide overlap when the device is fully extended to better ensure complete separation of the tubular member at the discontinuities of the shape charges about the plane of severance. |
| US08359961B2 |
Portable variable-angle cutting guide
A portable cutting-guidance apparatus is used with a portable, hand-holdable power saw (20) to make an angle-cut in an object at a variably selected angle. A positioning device (300) is positioned motionless against the object being cut. The saw (20) travels on and along a cutting-guide (100) in a straight line. The linear cutting-guide (100) is pivotally connected to the positioning device (300) about a pivot point (400). The linear cutting guide (100) can be adjustably fastened to the positioning means (300) at a variably selected angle. The positioning device (300) can be positioned and held against the object purely by the manual force of the user, which includes force with which the user pushes the power saw forwards along the cutting-guide to cut the object. The pivot point (400) is located a distance (y) away from the leading edge of the linear cutting-guide (100) to provide improved performance. |
| US08359956B1 |
Lathe rose device
A rose engine apparatus is disclosed for attaching to a lathe having a lathe bed and a headstock with a rotatable spindle. The apparatus includes a pivotal attaching means for pivotally attaching the headstock with the lathe bed. At least one cam is selectively fixable to a cam attachment means fixed to the spindle of the headstock, each cam having a continuous, variable radius along a peripheral edge thereof. A cam roller is fixed with the lathe bed so as to make contact with the peripheral edge of a selected cam. A biasing spring urges the selected cam against the roller means, such that the headstock pivots with respect to the lathe bed as a function of the variable radius of the selected cam, as the spindle and workpiece rotates. As such, cutting operations can be performed on the workpiece that correspond to the variable radius of the selected cam. The apparatus may be bypassed to allow conventional operation of the lathe without removing the apparatus therefrom. |
| US08359954B2 |
Radial foldout tool with multiple types of tools and bit storage
A device includes a body having a first end, a second end, and four faces. The device is configured to stand upright on the second end. A plurality of tools is stored against the four faces in a closed position. A first face and a second face each includes a bit storage that holds at least one socket. A third face includes a drive, a can opener, and a blade. The drive and the can opener rotate about a first rotatable mechanism coupled to the second end. The blade rotates about an insert coupled to the first end. A fourth face includes a first set of tool drivers that rotates about a second rotatable mechanism coupled to the second end and a second set of tool drivers that rotates about a third rotatable mechanism coupled to the first end. |
| US08359952B2 |
Open-end wrench
The present invention is related to an open-end wrench including a first jaw and a second jaw and a throat section connected between rear ends of the two jaws. A toothed section is disposed on the inner side of the first jaw. The toothed section has multiple sharp teeth and a wide tooth positioned behind the sharp teeth. The wide tooth has a largest width among all the teeth. The bottommost point of the throat section is spaced from a front end of the first jaw by a first length. The bottommost point of the throat section is spaced from the tooth crest of the wide tooth by a second length, which ranges from ⅓ to ½ the first length. In addition, the toothed section has a third length, which is about ⅖ the first length. |
| US08359946B2 |
Bowden cable adjusting device and mounting process
A Bowden cable adjusting device is provided for one or more Bowden cables (1′, 1″). The Bowden cable adjusting device (3) has a housing (4) with a detachable locking device (6) for adjustably connecting the housing (4) to a transmission element (5), which can be connected to one or more Bowden cables (1′, 1″). The Bowden cable adjusting device (3) has a mounting securing device (7) for the transmission element (5). The mounting securing device (7) can be deactivated. A process for mounting and adjusting a Bowden cable arrangement is also provided, wherein the mounting securing device (7) may be deactivated and the Bowden cable adjusting device (3) is shortened while adjusting the distance between the actuating member (2) and the Bowden cable (1′, 1″). |
| US08359945B2 |
Adjustable steering column assembly
A steering column assembly includes a column jacket adjustable in at least one of a longitudinal direction along a longitudinal axis and a tilt direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. A locking mechanism is coupled to the column jacket and is moveable between a locking position and an adjustment position. A lever is pivotably mounted to the column jacket and pivotable between a neutral position and an actuated position. The lever engages a switch when in the actuated position. The switch engages an actuator to move the locking mechanism into the adjustment position when engaged by the lever in the actuated position, thereby permitting adjustment of the column jacket in at least one of the longitudinal direction and the tilt direction. When the lever is in the neutral position, the switch does not engage the actuator, and a spring urges the locking mechanism into the locking position, thereby preventing adjustment. |
| US08359940B2 |
Control system for transmission
In a twin-clutch transmission, when a third shift valve (for example) goes out of order and the shift change accordingly becomes incapable of being carried out, the hydraulic pressure outputted from the third shift valve is controlled by a fourth shift valve operated by a first shift solenoid for a first shift valve. Accordingly, the hydraulic pressure outputted by a second linear solenoid is supplied to one of second hydraulic actuators, thereby enabling one of second predetermined transmission gear stages to be pre-shifted by use of a second power transmission path. When the first shift valve is used as a fail-safe, it is possible for the vehicle to make a minimum necessary run by setting up one of the second predetermined transmission gear stages. Furthermore, the fourth shift valve is driven by use of the existing first shift solenoid, thus minimizing the number of parts and cost. |
| US08359934B2 |
System for measuring loads during wheel/rail contact of rail vehicles
The object to configure a system for measuring loads during the wheel/rail contact of rail vehicles in such a manner that the occurring forces and/or torques can be measured in a reliable and realistic manner is solved by the present invention. Between the rail foot and the measuring device, at least one elastic element is arranged which has an elasticity which simulates the elasticity of a ballast bed. By means of the measuring system according to the invention, on the one hand, realistic conditions of a track system can be simulated and, on the other, a high metrological reproducibility of a load situation can be achieved. |
| US08359929B2 |
Surface mounted instrument
A surface mounted instrument (20) that is easily installed to seal (110, 120) against a mounting surface (150) in spite of imprecise installation of a standard rough-in box (145) or irregularities in the surface. A cover plate (60) overlays the installed instrument housing (10) without the use of outwardly visible mechanical connectors by use of a pawl (65) that engages the housing. An oversized display (50) is mounted for easy replacement on a moveable display module (45) for unobstructed access to the interior (35) of the housing. Subsurface channels (90) formed in the housing are used to deliver a working fluid from a measured location to a sensor (85) inside the housing. |
| US08359928B2 |
Pressure sensor and method for manufacturing the pressure sensor
A pressure sensor of the present invention includes a substrate inside which a reference pressure chamber is formed, a closing body filled in a through-hole formed in the substrate such that the closing body penetrates through a portion between the surface of the substrate and the reference pressure chamber, and hermetically closes the reference pressure chamber, and a strain gauge provided inside the substrate between the surface of the substrate and the reference pressure chamber, and the electric resistance thereof being capable of changing by strain deformation of the substrate. |
| US08359917B2 |
Arrangement with a nacelle and with an instrument
An arrangement with a nacelle and with at least one instrument of a wind turbine is disclosed. The instrument is connected with a rod. A channel penetrates the wall of the nacelle. The channel interacts with the rod in a way that the rod and its assigned instrument are moved through the channel between a first and a second position. The instrument is positioned inside the nacelle at the first position for installation and/or service purposes, while the instrument is positioned outside the nacelle at the second position for operation purposes of the instrument. |
| US08359912B2 |
Automatic engine oil life determination adjusted for consumed volume of oil
A method is provided for determining remaining oil life prior to an oil change in an internal combustion engine that uses a body of oil. The method includes transferring the body of oil to the engine and determining a volume of the transferred body of oil. The method also includes determining a volume of oil consumed by the engine from the transferred body of oil and determining the remaining oil life based on the determined volume of the body of oil and the determined volume of oil consumed. The method additionally includes activating an oil change indicator when the remaining oil life reaches a predetermined level. A system for determining a number of engine revolutions permitted on a volume of oil is also disclosed. |
| US08359911B2 |
Method for checking the function of a tank venting valve
The invention relates to a method for checking the function of a tank venting valve between the intake manifold of an internal combustion engine and a fuel tank or a fuel vapor reservoir in which the tank venting valve in operation of the internal combustion engine is opened several times and is closed again after a short opening time and in which during repeated opening and closing the time characteristic of a quantity which is dependent on the opening state of the tank venting valve is recorded. In order to enable a reliable function check of the tank venting valve even in the case of very small and/or time-shifted amplitudes of the quantity to be monitored, it is proposed, according to the invention, that the first derivative of the time characteristic of the quantity be evaluated. |
| US08359906B2 |
Environment testing apparatus capable of controlling condensation amount, and control method therefor
An object of the present invention is to provide an environment testing apparatus capable of achieving, on the surface of a test object, a stable condensation status with less variation in the condensation amount than that of already existing-art. The environment testing apparatus 100 includes a regulator 4. On the basis of a signal from a condensation amount sensor 9, the regulator 4 controls the temperature of a cooling/heating plate 6 between a deviation-added value of the wet bulb temperature obtained from the wet bulb 11, and a deviation-added value of the dew-point temperature inside the test chamber 1. |
| US08359905B2 |
Ceramic heater and gas sensor including the same
A ceramic heater including: a ceramic substrate having a heater element which generates heat when energized and an electrode pad disposed on a surface of the ceramic substrate, the electrode pad being electrically connected to the heater element, and a connection terminal electrically connected to the electrode pad through a braze part bonded to the electrode pad, the braze part being made of an alloy of copper and gold and the connection terminal being made of nickel or a nickel alloy, wherein a first region of the braze part within a distance of 15 μm from a contact face between the braze part and the connection terminal has a gold content of more than 6 wt % and less than 10 wt %. |
| US08359904B2 |
Photoacoustic gas detector
A photoacoustic detection device including a nanophotonic circuit including a plurality of semiconductor lasers capable of emitting a different frequencies; input couplers connected to optical waveguides; a multiplexer; an output optical waveguide, emerging into a recess; a tuning fork having its free arms arranged at the output of the output optical waveguide; and means for detecting the vibration of the tuning fork, all these elements being assembled in a monolithic component. |
| US08359901B2 |
Chemical impairment detection system and method of use to reduce circumvention
A chemical impairment detection system and method of use comprising a video surveillance system adapted to record a facial image of a tester, the video surveillance system having a camera with a lens having a field of view from which the camera views images and distinguishes whether those images have appropriate construction or contrast of light intensity. The invention further comprises a control and relay module having a proper view and position determiner adapted to determine whether the facial image of the tester is properly positioned within the field of view during a chemical impairment detection test, and a test prompter to alert the tester when to begin the chemical impairment detection test. The present invention further comprises a chemical impairment detection sampling device in operable communication with and responsive to the video surveillance system, the sampling device adapted to receive a chemical impairment detection test sample from the tester. |
| US08359896B2 |
Support jaw arrangement for sliding lateral support of rod-shaped and tubular workpieces in bending machines
A support jaw arrangement for sliding lateral support of rod-shaped and tubular workpieces prior to their entrance into a forming groove of a bending head of a bending machine. The support jaw arrangement includes two support jaws, one on each side of the workpiece. Each support jaw is fastened on a holder to a support bracket which, guided in a longitudinally displaceable manner on a guide block, is displaceable by a drive device from an initial position retracted against the direction of transport of the workpiece parallel to the same, to an end position extended in the direction of transport of the workpiece. One support jaw supports the workpiece in a laterally sliding manner in a region from its tangential entrance into the forming groove, up to a point at a predetermined distance in front of the same while the other support jaw assumes a retracted initial position. |
| US08359892B1 |
Rebar bending device
A rebar bending device for bending rebar. The device features a base plate and a rotator plate pivotally attached to the top of the base plate. A top plate is attached atop the rotator plate. A first pin extends from the base plate through the rotator plate and through the top plate. The rotator plate can rotate about the first pin with respect to the base plate and top plate. An arc-shaped slots are disposed in the top plate, which is adapted to receive a dial pin that is anchored to the rotator plate. A dial is marked atop the top plate (the second marker plate). A second pin is disposed on the top of the top plate near the first pin and a third pin is disposed on the top of the rotator plate. |
| US08359891B2 |
Portable device
A mechanical key is to be prevented from coming apart, a head portion of the mechanical key is to be attached to a main body for use and the main body is to be prevented from being disassembled unintentionally when using the mechanical key. In a key lock structure of a mechanical key of a portable device in which a mechanical key is storable in a main body, the main body is configured in a two-piece structure including a first case and a second case, the first case includes a first storage section for storing the mechanical key and a second storage section for storing a key lock mechanism of the mechanical key, the lock mechanism locks the mechanical key stored in the first storage section to prevent the mechanical key from coming off and unlocks in response to a predetermined operation to allow the mechanical key to be pulled out. |
| US08359889B2 |
Vehicle door handle device
A vehicle door handle device, includes a cylinder lock for locking and unlocking a locking mechanism of an opening/closing panel, and a pair of pivot members pivotally attached to the opening/closing panel. One pivot member of the pair of pivot members is formed of a shutter capable of opening and closing a key insert hole of the cylinder lock, and another pivot member of the pair of pivot members has a pivotal force transmitting portion for transmitting a pivotal force in a direction to open the key insert hole to the one pivot member and is formed of an operating handle for opening and closing the opening/closing panel. |
| US08359887B2 |
Apparatus and method for producing sheets of glass presenting at least one face of very high surface quality
A method is disclosed for producing sheet glass having two faces, at least one of which has a high surface quality, the method comprising a treatment step wherein a stream of glass is contacted with a forming tool, and wherein a reversible adhesion force exists between the stream of glass and the forming tool after contacting. An apparatus is also disclosed for producing sheet glass according to the disclosed and various other methods of sheet glass manufacture, the apparatus comprising a forming tool having a means for controlling the temperature of at least a portion of the surface thereof. |
| US08359886B2 |
Treatment of melt quenched aluminosilicate glass spheres for application as proppants via devitrification processes
A process for increasing toughness of glass particulates is provided. The process includes providing an aluminosilicate glass particulate, the glass particulate generally having the form of a sphere, and heating the glass particulate to a temperature greater than 600° C. for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the glass particulate can be cooled to ambient temperature and the heating step can alter the failure mechanism of the glass particulate from a high energy failure that produces generally fine powder to a lower energy failure that produces generally large fragments. The glass particulate can be an amorphous glass particulate and may or may not have a nominal composition that corresponds to rhyolite, basalt, tholeiite, olivine and/or andesite. |
| US08359883B2 |
Gemstone setting
Jewelry apparatus, a setting for gemstones and a method of setting gemstones in jewelry. The setting includes a base that is formed by walls and a sunk surface between the top and bottom of the base walls. Within the base, the sunk surface is divided into cavities by braces that partially enclose each cavity. Each cavity is partially circumscribed by the braces for holding the gemstone within each cavity. Each cavity has a bottom opening formed in the sunk surface for the pavilion of the gemstone to pass through. Girdles of the gemstones lie above the braces and are close together through the openings between the braces of adjacent cavities. Light passes through the pavilion that protrudes through the bottom openings and between adjacent gemstones through openings between the cavities. The passage of light creates a carpet setting with improved appearance. |
| US08359880B2 |
Fan motor assembly for blowing cooling air and refrigerator having the same
A fan motor assembly and a refrigerator having the same are provided. The fan motor assembly may include a cover plate having a cool air suction opening formed therein, and at least one cool air duct flow path formed at an inner side wall of the refrigerator. A blower may be provided at an interior side of the cover plate to direct cool air into the at least one cool air duct flow path. |
| US08359878B2 |
Method of assembling a refrigerator
A method of assembling a refrigerator including providing a main body having a storage chamber, providing a door having a door liner on one side of the door, providing a seating member, providing an ice maker for making ice, attaching the ice maker to the seating member, attaching the seating member to the door liner, providing an ice bank for storing ice, attaching the ice bank to the seating member below the ice maker, and rotatably attaching the door to the main body. |
| US08359877B2 |
Water vending apparatus
A water vending apparatus is disclosed. The water vending system includes a water vapor distillation apparatus and a dispensing device. The dispensing device is in fluid communication with the fluid vapor distillation apparatus and the product water from the fluid vapor distillation apparatus is dispensed by the dispensing device. |
| US08359876B2 |
Refrigerated display merchandiser with microchannel evaporator oriented to reliably remove condensate
A refrigerated display merchandiser is provided that includes a microchannel evaporator positioned within the merchandiser such that both the fins and the tubes of the microchannel evaporator are vertically oriented or substantially vertically oriented with respect to a vertical axis of the refrigerated display merchandiser, thus more reliably ensuring removal of condensate from the microchannel evaporator. |
| US08359875B2 |
Cooling method and apparatus
An apparatus and method to cool compressors, condensing coils, and similar devices. The compressor or condensing coil is cooled by the delivery of water, which may be ambient temperature or chilled. In one embodiment, the water is delivered to a mesh filter or screen via one or more mist spray nozzles. Water conduits may be integrated with the filter frame. The method to control the delivery of the water is designed to conserve water. The control circuit comprises a microcontroller device which contains programming that receives inputs, including but not limited to, outside ambient air temperature, condenser liquid line temperature, relative humidity and electric current, and uses said inputs to provide a stepwise level of control (“solenoid open time”) of water delivery commensurate with outside air temperature and relative humidity. |
| US08359865B2 |
Combustor liner segment seal member
A combustor for a gas turbine engine is provided that includes a support shell, a forward liner segment, an aft liner segment, and a seal member. The support shell has an interior surface, and exterior surface, and a plurality of impingement apertures disposed within the shell. The forward liner segment and aft liner segment are attached to the inner surface of the shell. The forward liner segment has an edge surface extending between a face surface and a back surface, and a seal shoulder. The aft liner segment has an edge surface extending between a face surface and a back surface, and a seal shoulder. The forward liner segment and the aft liner segment are separated from one another by a gap. The seal member is disposed within the gap. At least some of the plurality of impingement apertures disposed within the shell are aligned with the seal member and oriented to direct cooling air to impinge on the seal member. |
| US08359864B2 |
Wind-gas engine assembly and motor vehicle with the same
A wind-gas engine assembly and a motor vehicle with the same are provided. The wind-gas engine assembly comprises a high pressure gas engine (20) and a wind resistance engine (22) independent of each other. The high pressure gas engine generates primary power through injection of the high pressure gas. The wind resistance engine comprises an impeller chamber (221) and an impeller (222). The impeller chamber is provided with an air inlet (51) for receiving external wind resistance airflow, by which the impeller is driven to rotate to generate auxiliary power. The present invention not only utilizes wind resistance, but also saves energy and protects the environment. |
| US08359863B2 |
Micro-hybrid system with a plurality of starter-alternators
A micro-hybrid system (27) is connected to an on-board electrical network (V+) of a first heat engine (28) of a vehicle, whereby the first heat engine having a first cubic capacity which is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value. The system (27) comprises a number equal to two or more of identical starter-alternator devices (1) which are mechanically coupled to the first heat engine (28). The torque and power characteristics of each of the starter-alternator devices (1, 16), while not being adapted to the first heat engine (28), are adapted to a second heat engine having a second cubic capacity which is less than or equal to a second predetermined value equal to a fraction of the first predetermined value. The system is adapted to an application to large heat engines and allows a certain degree of standardization of starter-alternator devices. |
| US08359862B1 |
Steam turbine engine
A steam turbine engine that converts highly compressed steam to mechanical rotatative torque. An upper sealing gate and lower sealing gate alternately open and block the intake port and exhaust port accordingly through the use of a lever arm and cam and pulley system. |
| US08359861B2 |
Solar heat collector, sunlight collecting reflector, sunlight collecting system and solar energy utilization system
A sunlight collecting system and a solar energy utilization system which collects sunlight with the sunlight collecting system are provided, a sunlight collecting system including a solar heat collector which includes a heat collecting element which is formed by a helically wound heat exchange medium circulation pipe inside which the heat exchange medium flows, in such a way to have an incurved light receiving surface which narrows and converges towards the sunlight inlet and a sunlight collecting reflector which includes a reflector group which includes a plurality of reflector segments each of which includes a reflecting surface which makes sunlight converge on a heat collector, a sunlight collecting system in which a plurality of heliostats Bm are arranged in places which are irradiated by the sunlight between a plurality of heliostats An, in which each of the heliostats An and the heliostats Bm reflect light in a direction to a light collecting point of a heliostat group in which the heliostat is included. |
| US08359860B2 |
Drive train of a motor vehicle with a compressed-air system
A drive train for a motor vehicle includes: a vehicle drive engine for driving the motor vehicle via a vehicle drive shaft driven by a vehicle drive engine; and a compressor which can be driven optionally or permanently for compressing air for a compressed-air system of the motor vehicle. The compressor is associated with at least one drive unit in the form of a steam-driven expansion machine by which the compressor can be driven. |
| US08359858B2 |
Twin turbocharged engine with reduced compressor imbalance and surge
A method for reducing imbalance between multiple compressors supplying air to an engine is disclosed. In one embodiment, engine boost pressure is limited by choking flow through a compressor. The method may reduce compressor surge during some operating conditions. |
| US08359856B2 |
Systems and methods for efficient pumping of high-pressure fluids for energy storage and recovery
In various embodiments, a mechanical assembly and/or storage vessel is fluidly coupled to a circulation apparatus for receiving pressurized heat-transfer fluid from an outlet at a first elevated pressure, boosting a pressure of the heat-transfer fluid to a second pressure larger than the first pressure, and returning heat-transfer fluid to an inlet at a third pressure. |
| US08359855B1 |
Waves and sea swells imitator apparatus
The apparatus for converting the motions of waves or sea swells into mechanical motion and then into usable energy. A energy transfer medium (101) situated within the unobstructed internal cavity of a containing enclosure (102) in order to recreate the magnitude and direction of a wave or sea swell inside the containing enclosure. The recreated wave consequently generates an imbalance in the mass distribution of the containing enclosure. This allows a pivoting rotating element (103) joint situated at a central point between a base (104) and the containing enclosure to take advantage of the mass imbalance in order to produce movement. A series of energy collecting devices (128) situated on the base harvests this movement and transforms it into usable energy. |
| US08359850B2 |
Hydrodynamic component and force transmission device with a hydrodynamic component
The invention relates to a hydrodynamic component, comprising at least two bladed shells forming a torus shaped operating cavity in combination, each comprising a blade array supported by a dish, wherein at least one of the bladed shells comprises no support of the blades through the dish in the radially inner end portion of the particular blades. The invention is characterized in that flow control means are provided in the radially inner end portion of the torus shaped operating cavity in the portion where the dish is missing. The invention furthermore relates to a force transmission device with a hydrodynamic component. |
| US08359849B2 |
Control of a fluid circuit using an estimated sensor value
A fluid circuit includes a tank for holding fluid, a hydraulic device having a predetermined load configuration, and a pump for delivering the fluid under pressure to the hydraulic device. Sensors measure at least one of a supply pressure, a tank pressure, and a position of a portion of the hydraulic device. A controller estimates or reconstructs an output value of any one sensor using the predetermined load configuration in the event of a predetermined failure of that sensor, ensuring continued operation of the hydraulic device. A method for estimating the output value includes sensing output values using the sensors, processing the output values using the controller to determine the presence of a failed sensor, and calculating an estimated output value of the failed sensor using the predetermined load configuration. Operation of the hydraulic device is maintained using the estimated output value until the failed sensor can be repaired. |
| US08359847B2 |
Device and method for converting a motorcycle exhaust system into a multiple exhaust system
Disclosed is an exhaust extension apparatus and method for converting a motorcycle exhaust system into a dual or quadruple exhaust system. The device is suited for motorcycles, off-road vehicles, or a vehicle with a reciprocating engine with multiple cylinders. Each exhaust extension unit comprises two metallic pipes shaped and welded together to form an exhaust extension unit having one exhaust intake and two equal-flow exhaust exits. Two exhaust extension units may be paired and connected to the exhaust pipes on each side of a motorcycle rider's seat, thereby providing a quadruple set of exhaust pipes and further, an increase in the performance of the engine. |
| US08359846B2 |
Exhaust manifold
An exhaust manifold includes: a double collecting pipe formed of inner and outer pipes; and an inner pipe retainer formed of a pair of semi-circular portions and a connecting portion. The inner pipe includes a collecting pipe portion and bifurcated branch pipe portions. The outer pipe covers outer peripheral portions of the collecting and branch pipe portions. The semi-circular portions are respectively connected to outer peripheral portions of branched branch pipe portions and an inner peripheral portion of the outer pipe. The connecting portion connects the semi-circular portions. The inner pipe retainer is interposed between the inner pipe and the outer pipe and is connected to the inner pipe and the outer pipe to define a certain gap therebetween. Exhaust gas from exhaust ports of a set of cylinders among a plurality of cylinders of an engine is introduced into the collecting pipe portion through the branch pipe portions. |
| US08359840B2 |
Method for adjusting boost pressure while regenerating a particulate filter for a direct injection engine
A method for regenerating a particulate filter is disclosed. In one example, oxygen is pumped from the intake system of a direct injection turbocharged gasoline engine to the exhaust system by a compressor. The oxygen is introduced to a particulate filter at a location upstream from the particulate filter and downstream of a three-way catalyst. The oxygen may be regulated in part by adjusting compressor boost pressure in response to a state of particulate filter regeneration. Further, in one embodiment, engine NOx can be controlled by EGR. |
| US08359839B2 |
System and method for regenerating a particulate filter for a direct injection engine
A method for regenerating a particulate filter is disclosed. In one example, oxygen is pumped from the intake system of a direct injection turobocharged gasoline engine to the exhaust system by a compressor. The oxygen is introduced to a particulate filter at a location upstream from the particulate filter. In this way, regeneration of a particulate filter may be accomplished without disturbing the chemistry of a three-way catalyst located in the exhaust system upstream of the particulate filter. |
| US08359836B2 |
Internal combustion engine, vehicle, marine vessel, and secondary air supply method for internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine capable of efficiently supplying air to an exhaust path even in a high load state. The internal combustion engine includes a convergent section, a divergent section, and a branch section. The branch section branches a shock wave, propagating in a downstream direction at a higher velocity than exhaust gas flowing into an exhaust path from a combustion chamber when an exhaust valve is opened, from a portion of the exhaust path which is upstream with respect to the divergent section, and propagates the shock wave back to the exhaust path. The exhaust gas is caused to pass the convergent section and to collide against the shock wave between the branch section and the divergent section so as to increase the pressure of the exhaust gas in the convergent section. Such exhaust gas is caused to pass the divergent section to generate a new shock wave. A secondary air supply system includes a supply section arranged to supply air to a portion of the exhaust path which is upstream with respect to the divergent section, using a negative pressure generated by the newly generated shock wave. |
| US08359831B2 |
Reactant delivery for engine exhaust gas treatment
A reactant delivery system for engine exhaust gas treatment may include a tank in which a reactant is received, a pumping device, a pressure relief device, and a reactant distribution device. The pumping device may have an inlet disposed within the interior of the tank to receive the reactant, and an outlet through which the reactant is discharged. The pressure relief device may have an inlet in fluid communication with the outlet of the pumping device, a primary outlet to discharge the reactant under pressure to a downstream location, and a bypass outlet through which at least some of the reactant discharged from the pumping device is selectively discharged. And the reactant distribution device may be in fluid communication with the bypass outlet of the pressure relief device and have a plurality of outlets to distribute the reactant to at least two different locations within the tank. |
| US08359830B2 |
Exhaust purification device of an internal combustion engine
In an internal combustion engine, an NOX selective reducing catalyst is arranged in an engine exhaust passage. Urea is fed in the NOX selective reducing catalyst, ammonia generated from this urea is adsorbed at the NOX selective reducing catalyst, and the NOX contained in the exhaust gas is selectively reduced mainly by the adsorbed ammonia. An NOX sensor able to detect NOX and ammonia contained in the exhaust gas is arranged in the engine exhaust passage downstream of the NOX selective reducing catalyst. It is judged that the amount of adsorption of ammonia at the NOX selective reducing catalyst is saturated based on the detection value of the NOX sensor when the feed of fuel to the engine is stopped during the deceleration operation. |
| US08359823B2 |
Steel cord for reinforcing tire
A steel cord (50) comprises a core layer and an outer layer. The core layer comprises a number of first steel filaments (10) and the outer layer comprises a number of second steel filaments (20). The outer layer is helically twisted around the core layer. The first steel filaments have a twisting pitch greater than 310 mm. At least one of the first steel filaments (10) is wavy preformed in one plane. At least one of the second steel filaments (20) is polygonally preformed. |
| US08359820B2 |
Ultra-low flow agricultural pump with unobstructed flow path and electronic flow control, tank refill indication, and detection of loss of flow
A harvester has an operator cab, a motor, a carriage driven by the motor, a crop cutter and collector, a processing body, and an ultra-low flow agricultural forage preservative applicator system for applying a biological solution to forage during harvesting. The forage preservative applicator has a biological solution reservoir, a flush reservoir, a peristaltic pump, a valve operative to either couple the pump with the biological solution or the flush solution, and a dispensing tube, where the biological fluid containing pathways are of functionally like cross-section in the region between the biological solution reservoir outlet and the dispensing tube outlet. A flow detector which does not obstruct the fluid pathway is provided to monitor biological solution flow rate, and a moisture detector and harvest rate detector may be used for automatic control. |
| US08359810B2 |
Method for building over an opening via incremental launching
Methods and systems for building a stress ribbon structure over an opening via incremental launching, a construction fixture, a support structure, an anchorage panel, and a stress ribbon structure are disclosed. Construction fixtures are constructed adjacent to a support structure. The stress ribbon structure is constructed in a staging area and in sections that are suspended between the construction fixtures. Anchorage panels at each end of a section engage a blister on the construction fixtures and the support structure. Completed sections are launched from the construction fixtures onto and along the support structure. Sections are individually constructed and launched and adjacent sections abut along a lateral edge. Adjacent sections are aligned by adjusting tension in integral support cables and their ends pivot or rotate about the blisters via a bearing system with both rotational flexibility and low friction to support sliding in the direction of launching. |
| US08359808B2 |
Polystyrene wall, system, and method for use in an insulated foam building
The present invention uses insulating concrete forms (ICF) in the construction of residential buildings. An entire wall panel is formed from polystyrene panels that may be cut by a hot wire machine. If necessary, hat channel shaped metal may be inserted into hat channel slots. Columns of polystyrene are removed so that concrete posts may be poured therein after the wall panel has been secured into place with rebar being located therein. Rebar and concrete also are formed along the top of the wall panel. Electrical and plumbing connection pathways are provided in the wall panel at the time of cutting with hot wire. Each wall panel is separately designed and cut by hot wire while still at the factory, but are all connected together to form an ICF residence. Openings are provided for doors and windows and are buck framed. Hat channels are inserted as necessary for strength and/or connection thereto. |
| US08359800B2 |
Shutter border frame with channel and cover plug
A shutter assembly having a shutter with louvres, and a border frame for surrounding the shutter which is attachable to a building and having a plurality of frame side sections each formed of sections of extruded plastic, a plurality of hollow tubes, separated by thin walls, defined in the sections, a fastener channel formed integrally in the frame side sections for receiving fasteners for holding the shutter assembly in place, and, an extruded plastic removable cover plug channel having flexible side walls for fitting in the fastener channel and closing the channel and thereby concealing heads of the fasteners. |
| US08359797B2 |
Structure constructed using precast members and method of constructing the same
The present invention provides a structure constructed using PC members and a method of constructing the structure. In the present invention, each of PC wall members (10) of PC walls (1) has connection reinforcing bars (11) at predetermined positions. Each of PC slab members (20) of PC slabs (2) has open reinforcing bars (21), which protrude from the PC slab member (20). Supporting molds (3) are mounted to the PC wall members (10) at positions just below the connection reinforcing bars (11), so that the PC slab members (20) are placed on the supporting molds (3), such that the connection reinforcing bars (11) are overlapped with the corresponding open reinforcing bars (21) in slab areas, and connection concrete (4) is cast at a construction site such that the connection reinforcing bars (11) and the open reinforcing bars (21) are embedded in the connection concrete (4), thus integrating the PC walls (1) and the PC slabs (2) with each other. |
| US08359796B1 |
Dual support connector assembly for doors and windows
A dual support connector assembly for connecting a glass panel, including an insulated glass panel a security glass panel, or a decorative leaded glass panel, to a structural panel for a door or a window without creating holes in the door or glass panel wherein the connector has a connector body, connector hole extending through the connector body, a lower glass flange integral with the connector body for overlaying an edge portion of the glass panel; an upper structural panel flange integral with the connector body, extending at an angle to the connector hole away from the connector body parallel to while opposite the lower glass panel flange for overlaying an edge portion of the structural portion while in a plane apart from a plane of the lower glass flange. |
| US08359789B2 |
Plant growing apparatus and method
A plant-growing apparatus has a plurality of rotatable plant-growing modules which can be moved between two positions, separated vertically or horizontally. Each module comprises a cylindrical structure for holding plant-growing containers in which the plants grow radially inwardly of the cylindrical structure toward a light source. The apparatus has module support means for supporting each module and rotating it in a substantially horizontal position. The apparatus has module moving means, for example sprocket driven chains, for conveying the modules between the two positions. |
| US08359786B2 |
Method and device for buffering containers with plants
A method for buffering containers (3, 74, 140) with plants includes: providing a buffer space (1) for buffering containers in a greenhouse; providing containers with plants; supplying and disposing a number of containers in a row (10-13, 107-110) in a first direction (21, 111); buffering the row of disposed containers by gripping, lifting and displacing the row through the buffer space in a second direction (39, 113) which differs from the first direction, and by setting down the row in the buffer space. A related buffering device for temporarily storing containers with plants in a buffer space includes a supply system (5, 105) for supplying containers, a disposing apparatus for disposing a number of supplied containers in a row extending in a first direction, a distributing system (36, 115) provided with at least one controllable gripping device (30, 114, 130) for gripping a row of containers, wherein the distributing system is movable substantially in a second direction which differs from the first direction, and is movable above the disposing apparatus. |
| US08359783B1 |
Remote-controlled cage trap door-opening mechanism
A remotely activated door-opening mechanism is provided for a cage trap having an animal enclosure, preferably a cage trap as disclosed in U.S. Publ. No. US2008/0115405. The mechanism is mounted outside the enclosure of the trap and is preferably remotely activated by an IR or RF transmitter to open a door of the trap and release a trapped animal when the operator is at a safe distance away. The mechanism may also be manually set with a time delay and may be associated with either a main entry door to the trap or with a secondary escape door located at an opposite end of the trap. |
| US08359777B2 |
Light weight firing control housing for revolver
A revolver with light-weight firing control housing includes a cylinder frame supporting a rotatable cylinder defining a plurality of cartridge-receiving chambers and a firing control housing made of a non-metallic material. The firing control housing attaches to the cylinder frame and supports firing control mechanism components, such as a trigger and a pivotable hammer actuated by the trigger. In one embodiment, the firing control housing may be made of a polymer and the cylinder frame may be metal. |
| US08359776B2 |
Sign holder for an electronic kiosk
A sign holder includes a base, a first sign sleeve and at least one second sign sleeve. The base has a mounting portion configured to mount to an electronic kiosk, a sleeve support portion and a connecting portion coupling the mounting portion to the sleeve support portion. The first sign sleeve receives at least one sign and is mounted to a front surface of the sleeve support portion and the at least one second sign sleeve receives at least one sign and is mounted to a front surface of the first sign sleeve. |
| US08359775B2 |
Multi-purpose carry-on mobile device with L.E.D. flash lights alert
The present invention provides a portable multi-purpose sign and device having a housing with a proximal end and a distal end, a support member positioned on one side of the housing, a collapsible tripod assembly pivotally attached to the proximal end of the housing, a cover having substantially the same shape and configuration as the housing and pivotally attached to the proximal end, and a removable display device removably mounted on the support member and stored between the housing and the cover in a collapsed configuration. The collapsible tripod assembly further includes a plurality of leg extensions pivotally attached one to another and nestable within one another in a collapsed configuration to house within the housing. |
| US08359765B2 |
Device and method for dehydrating and drying a mixture of plastic granules and water
The invention relates to a method and a device (01) for dewatering and drying a mixture made of plastic granulate and water, having at least one mixture intake (02), through which the mixture is supplied to the device (01), having at least one water outlet (08), through which the precipitated water is removed from the device (01), having at least one granulate outlet (13), through which the dried granulate is removed from the device (01), the device (01) having a dewatering line (06), along which the mixture is dewatered, and the device (01) having a drying line (12), along which the dewatered granulate is dried. The device (01) comprises at least one sensor (16), using which at least one property parameter of the granulate, in particular the temperature and/or residual moisture of the dried granulate, may be measured directly or indirectly, the device (01) comprising at least one final control element (17), and the property parameter monitored using the sensor (16), in particular the temperature and/or residual moisture of the dried granulate, being able to be influenced as a function of the measured values of the sensor (16) using the final control element (17). |
| US08359764B2 |
Mount for a scale
A holding device for a scale including a support body, a first solid body link and a second body link. The first solid body link acts as a connection between a first longitudinal side of a scale and the support body, via which the scale can be seated, shiftable in a measuring direction, on the support body. The second solid body link acts as a connection between a second longitudinal side of the scale and the support body, via which the scale can be seated, shiftable in the measuring direction, on the support body, wherein the second longitudinal side and the first longitudinal side are arranged opposite each other. |
| US08359755B1 |
Animal hair grooming tool
The present invention may be used for removal of hair or fur from an animal. A blade holder may be rotatetably attached to a handle. The blade holder may have a body that may have a cavity that may be shaped to receive a cutting blade. A blade clamp may be disposable on a cutting blade and a fastener may be attached to attach the blade clamp and the cutting blade on the body. |
| US08359754B2 |
Multi-tasking utility tool
A utility tool comprising a body having a first end and a second end positioned on opposite ends of the body; a removable blade cartridge positioned within the body, wherein a knife blade within the removable blade cartridge is configured to slidably extend out from the first end; as well as a first tool and a second tool configured to be selectively coupled to each other or one of either the first end and second end of the body. The utility tool includes a knife switch coupled to the knife blade, the knife blade moves from the retracted position to the extended position only when the blade cartridge is engaged within the body. The utility tool having a spring mechanism for biasing the knife blade to the retracted position and a leaf member for engaging and disengaging the blade cartridge from the blade cartridge bay by a snap fit. |
| US08359743B2 |
Manufacturing method of valve sealant fitting
A valve sealant fitting includes a spring coupling unit having an internal screw thread for coupling unit assembly below the ball installation groove of the sealant body, the internal screw thread having a hexagonal groove for preventing a downward separation of the coil spring, allowing a fluid to flow and facilitating fastening and releasing of the screw, and having an external screw thread at an outer circumference of the spring coupling unit, and outer sealing O-rings disposed in O-ring installation grooves formed on respective upper and lower positions of the valve coupling taper screw part formed on the outer lower side of the sealant body. |
| US08359738B2 |
Method of manufacturing wiring board
A method of manufacturing a wiring board including forming a first wiring board, the forming of the first board including forming a substrate, forming a first insulation layer on a surface of the substrate and a second insulating layer on the opposite surface of the substrate, forming a via in one of the layers, and cutting the first layer in a first area and cutting the second layer in a second area offset from the first area to form a first substrate laminated to a second substrate with the substrate interposed therebetween, the second substrate having a smaller mounting area than that of the first substrate such that the first substrate extends beyond edge of the second substrate, connecting a pliable member to the substrate, and connecting the member to a second wiring board to connect the first and second boards. One or more insulation layers are a non-pliable layer. |
| US08359734B2 |
Alignment jig for electronic component
A jig securing alignment and positional accuracy in all directions (x, y, z) for an electrical component to be soldered to a PCB is provided. The jig positions the IC in the x and y directions, and keeps the IC from rotating. The jig also holds the IC down during the soldering process to make sure that the IC remains parallel to the PCB before, during and after soldering. The jig attaches to mounting holes on the PCB and its placement can be automated or performed manually. |
| US08359733B2 |
Methods for preloading a bearing
Methods and apparatus for preloading a bearing are provided. These methods and apparatus include preload monitoring procedures and devices whereby a mechanic can accurately monitor and regulate the preload on a bearing or bearing assembly. Aspects of the invention may also be used to adjust the endplay on a bearing or a bearing assembly. The methods and apparatus allow the mechanic to apply and/or verify a preload on the bearing, for example, to apply and/or verify a preferred “3 thousandths” preload, as is desired in the industry. In one aspect, the preload on the bearing is transmitted through a housing having a fluid pressure that can be detected and monitored. |
| US08359728B2 |
Method for manufacturing a corrosion sensor
A method for manufacturing a corrosion sensor includes applying a first layer of non-conductive material to a substrate, writing a conductive material at discrete locations on the non-conductive material, and writing the conductive material at discrete locations on the previously written conductive material. The method further includes applying a second layer of non-conductive material over the conductive material and machining at least a portion of the second layer of non-conductive material to expose at least a portion of the conductive material. |
| US08359727B2 |
Method and device for centering and clamping a workpiece in a balancing machine
The method includes the steps of positioning a workpiece with a centering surface on a centering clamping member of a chuck, pressing a radial contact surface of the workpiece against a clamping surface of the chuck with a first force, centering the workpiece by clamping the centering clamping member against the centering surface, and pressing the radial contact surface of the workpiece against the clamping surface of the chuck with a second force, the second force being greater than the first force. |
| US08359726B2 |
Method for setting up a painting system in a predefined setup location
The invention relates to a method for setting up a painting system (22) in a predefined setup location (20), wherein the painting system (22) comprises at least one module group (26, 28, 30), which is provided for a work step and which further comprises a number of modules (16, 16′, 16′, 16″) that are functional per se, which contribute to performing the work step, and wherein each module (16, 16′, 16′, 16″) has components (14, 14′, 14′, 14″) specific to the module, wherein in a first step preferably each module (16, 16′, 16′, 16″) of the module group (26, 28, 30) is completed in a finishing location (10), in a second step each module (16, 16′, 16′, 16″) of the module group (26, 28, 30) is transported to the setup location (20), and in a third step the painting system (22) is set up by connecting all modules. The invention further relates to a painting system (22). |
| US08359725B1 |
Single action swage
The different advantageous embodiments provide a method and apparatus for forming materials that may comprise a body having a channel and an insert. The channel may extend to a first opening in the body and a second opening in the body. The embodiments may also provide a mandrel disposed in the channel of the body and the insert of the body. The mandrel may have a shaft, a head on the shaft, and a compressible material disposed between the head and the insert of the body. The embodiments may also provide a collar. The collar may have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the body. The embodiments may also provide a biasing system configured to guide the collar in a first direction to a first position and then to a second position and configured to apply force to the body in a second direction. |
| US08359724B2 |
Method of sealing an inkjet ink tank
A method includes a) providing a detachable seal retainer including: a housing for a seal member; an attachment face having a plurality of attachment members; an outer face opposite the attachment face; a handle including a free end and a hinged end opposite the free end; and a hinge member disposed between the housing and the hinged end of the handle; b) providing a seal member within the housing; c) providing an ink tank including an outlet face having a corresponding plurality of attachment features proximate the at least one outlet port; d) aligning the seal retainer to the ink tank such that the alignment members of the seal retainer are aligned with the corresponding plurality of attachment features of the ink tank; e) pressing the seal retainer against the ink tank such that the seal member is contact with the at least one outlet port. |
| US08359722B2 |
Magnetic repair kit for latches and mailbox latch repair method
A mailbox door latch retrofitting kit that uses a magnet attached to the interior of the mailbox to magnetically engage the door of a mailbox, or to magnetically engage a metal disk attached to the door of a mailbox. The kit includes a magnet attached to a bracket which is secured to the inside of a mailbox in a manner to permit the magnet to contact the mailbox door. The magnet secures the door of a ferrous-containing mailbox closed. For non-ferrous containing mailboxes, an optional ferrous-containing disk or flat washer is secured to the inside of the mailbox door using double sided tape and aligned for engagement with the magnet. |
| US08359721B2 |
Sliding split-sleeve implant compressor
A system and method for loading an endoprosthesis, such as a stent or valve, into an introducer is provided that permits interventionalists to load the endoprosthesis easily at the bedside. The system can include a compressor for compressing the endoprosthesis to a cross-sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of the introducer lumen. The compressor has a funnel portion at one end where the un-compressed endoprosthesis can be introduced and another end where the introducer and sleeves of a split sleeve device are inserted. The sleeves conform to the compressor passage and surround the endoprosthesis to collapse the endoprosthesis. The split sleeve device also includes a mounting device coupled to the sleeves. The endoprosthesis is compressed and loaded into the introducer by the relative movement of the mounting device and the compressor, where the endoprosthesis remains generally stationary while being compressed and loaded in order to avoid potentially compromising the endoprosthesis. |
| US08359719B2 |
Snap ring having multiple rollers
A snap ring for coupling a purse line to a purse seine includes a frame, a plurality of rollers, a frame opening, and a locking unit. The frame is connected to the purse seine. The purse line passes through a second end of the frame. The rollers are rotatably provided in the frame at positions at which the purse line is brought into contact with the frame. The frame opening is formed in one side part of opposite side parts of the frame to open the frame. The locking unit is coupled to the frame to openably close the frame opening. The locking unit includes a first cylinder which is hinged at a first end thereof to the part of the frame which corresponds to a first end of the frame opening. |
| US08359718B2 |
Roughness insulated sheath covering
An enveloping roughness insulative layer of material is provided which need have no connection to a connection member, such as a female eyelet support before the female eyelet support and enveloping roughness insulative layer of material is attached to the main garment structure. The enveloping roughness insulative layer of material can be formed while attached to a connection member or it can be formed independent of the connection member. The enveloping roughness insulative layer of material is preferably formed into an envelope shape and may be made from a planar layer of material or result in closure of an annular tubular expanse of material. |
| US08359717B2 |
Slide fastener
Various embodiments of slide fasteners include a first set of coupling elements and a second set of coupling elements configured to be removably joined together by a slider. Each coupling element includes a first surface having a first shape and a second surface having a second shape, wherein the second surface is spaced apart from and cofaces the first surface. The first shape may be substantially triangular or substantially trapezoidal, according to various embodiments, and the second shape is substantially gear shaped. When the coupling elements of the first set and the second set are removably joined together, water is substantially prevented from leaking from the first surface to the second surface. In addition, the coupling elements are disposed on stringer tapes, and the surfaces of the stringer tapes adjacent the first surfaces of the coupling elements are laminated with a water resistant material. |
| US08359712B2 |
Vehicle door outer handle device
In a vehicle door outer handle device, an inwardly recessed housing recess is provided in a base member fixed to a vehicle door; an outer handle having an operation portion is pivotably supported on the base member while being able to pivot to an operated position in accordance with pulling of the operation portion and being spring-biased toward a non-operated position side, at least part of the operation portion being disposed in the housing recess; and a cylinder lock is mounted on the base member so that a key hole is covered at least in a state in which the outer handle is in the non-operated position. In the outer handle device, a cover member is detachably mounted on the base member so as to cover the key hole, the cover member being formed as a separate body from the outer handle so as to form part of the housing recess while forming a design surface of the base member. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a vehicle door outer handle device that makes it difficult for the position of a cylinder lock to be identified. |
| US08359711B2 |
Restricting devices for a window hinge
A slider for use in a track having an end stop therein, the slider having a detent therein and including a releasable restrictor having a rib thereon, wherein the releasable restrictor can be held in an active position by an interaction between the rib and the detent, or an inactive position, and wherein the releasable restrictor is automatically reset in its active position when the slider reaches the end stop in the track. More controlled closing of a window sash is thereby possible. |
| US08359710B2 |
Portable computer clutch structures
A portable computer is provided that has a housing. Upper and lower portions of the housing may be joined using a hinge. A clutch mechanism may be associated with the hinge. The clutch mechanism may exhibit asymmetrical friction during opening and closing of the portable computer housing portions. Additional closing force may help to prevent the computer from having a lid that is too easy to close, without overwhelming the clutch with unnecessary friction. The clutch may have a clutch spring that is attached to a clutch shaft using a slot in the shaft. A lobe may be provided in the spring in the vicinity of the slot. A protective cap may be provided over the tip of the shaft to prevent damage to nearby wires. A friction band in the clutch may be used to directly engage an end of the spring. |
| US08359709B2 |
Locking hinge assembly
A door hinge assembly with hinge members having axially aligned cylindrical passages with interior surface shape, and a selectively depressible hinge pin with an exterior shape that matches the interior hinge member passages so as to permit selective locking of the hinge members. |
| US08359708B2 |
Universal bracket and luggage handle system
The invention includes a universal retractable handle assembly for attachment to luggage items of a variety of different sizes. A plurality of tubes having a fixed length can be attached to a bracket member such that each tube can extend in a telescoping manner to a different distance from the bracket member when the handle is in the extended position and thus be employed in different sizes of luggage. Additionally, a tube housing is provided which includes a tube receiving portion and reinforcing portions on an outer surface of the tube housing. The tube receiving portion is formed with an arcuate shape which corresponds with the shape of the tube member to be inserted therein. The reinforcing portions include a plurality of planar flanges which extend beyond the outer surface of the tube receiving portion to provide improved structural characteristics. |
| US08359706B2 |
Vacuum and blower attachments
The invention is drawn to methods and apparatus comprising the use of attachment components comprising fluid-driven turbines to dusting, trimming, polishing, and claiming a locus, such as a surface. |
| US08359704B2 |
Engine blower
An engine blower includes: an engine integrated with a volute for driving a fan; a ventilation tube communicated with the volute; and a handle mounted to the ventilation tube. In the engine blower, the handle has a pair of cases that are assembled with each other, and a conductive resin layer is formed on a surface of a grip of the handle. The resin layer is integrated with gates exposed within the handle. A conductive spring having a coil compressed in a direction in which the cases are assembled with each other and a cable that is electrically coupled with the engine are disposed within the handle. The gate of the resin layer is brought into contact with the coil of the spring and is electrically coupled with the cable via the spring. |
| US08359702B2 |
Ball and socket joint utilizing a single ball, for driving more than one driven member
An articulating ball joint for connecting a pair of driven members to a driving member such as a crank pin. In one embodiment, a single ball is held in a first, or inner, socket defined by a coupling member having a convex outer surface, and the first socket is held within a second, outer, socket defined in a second coupling member also having a convex outer surface, which is, in turn, engaged by a retainer. |
| US08359701B2 |
Wiper blade
The invention is based on a wiper blade (12) with a wiper strip (14) which has a wiper lip (16) and a head strip (20) which is integrally formed on said wiper lip and, in a first longitudinal channel (26), has a supporting element in the form of a spring rail (18) with a flat cross section, and has a spoiler (22, 38, 46) on that side which faces away from the wiper lip (16). It is proposed that the spoiler (22, 38, 46) surrounds the head strip (20) on its longitudinal sides by means of guide rails (40). |
| US08359700B1 |
Lottery ticket scratcher
A lottery ticket scratcher device that permits a user to scratch off the “scratch-off” areas of a lottery game ticket, the device including a bulbous gripping end and a generally claw-shaped scraper portion having a gradually tapered forward edge that tapers into a sharp tip. A pressure member having a concave center portion is disposed on the upper surface of the scraper portion adjacent to an inside edge of the forward edge. The pressure member conforms to a user's digit tip to permit a user to apply pressure to the scraper portion to scratch off the “scratch-off” areas. An aperture integrated into the gripping end removably receives a key ring therethrough. |
| US08359697B2 |
Toothbrush
A toothbrush includes a head portion having bristles thereon, a neck portion, and a handle. One end of the neck portion is connected to the head portion, and the other end is connected to the handle. The axis of the bristles is substantially parallel to the axis of the neck portion. The axis of the neck portion and the axis of the handle form an angle. Accordingly, the toothbrush can be used easily for brushing, and it reduces angle limitations when cleaning the inner surface of teeth. |
| US08359692B2 |
Dental cleaning device
Powered toothbrush systems that provide improved bristle positioning and bristle contact with tooth surfaces that reduce the time and effort required for effective brushing. Some embodiments use alternating or oscillating pneumatic pressure and suction to move a tooth brush head. Various configuration of the brush head provide different areas of coverage ranging from individual tooth to quarter mouth (U-cross section), to half (U-cross section or H-cross section) or whole mouth (U-cross section or H-cross section) coverage. Some embodiments include flexible fingers and/or bladders to keep the bristle tips properly engaged with the teeth and gums, providing bristle contact over a wide variety of malocclusion. The shape of the brush heads adapts to conform closely to the shape of the user's dental arch and to any malocclusion that may be present. The power toothbrush automatically generates motion of the brush head that simulates the “Modified Bass Method” of brushing. |
| US08359690B1 |
Tire changing system for vehicle
A tire changing system for use on a vehicle having a frame and four wheel wells formed above corresponding wheels includes a jack movable between lowered and raised configurations and an impact wrench configured to move the jack therebetween when actuated. The system includes an air compressor and air storage tank. An elongate primary hose is connected to the storage tank and extends along the vehicle frame, the primary hose having a plurality of outlet ports situated adjacent to respective vehicle wheel wells. A secondary hose includes a first end selectively coupled to a respective outlet port and a second end selectively connected to the impact wrench such that the impact wrench receives air flow from the storage tank. With a connection to the storage tank, the impact wrench may be used to remove lug nuts from a respective vehicle wheel and operate the jack. |
| US08359682B2 |
Bathtub support structure with decorative panel components and method
A bathtub support structure and method of construction is described. The support structure comprises a support frame structure formed of vertical support posts and lateral frame members for interconnecting the vertical post at predetermined locations in the support frame structure. Each of the vertical support posts has an adjustable support foot at a top end thereof. At least two spaced-apart adjustable connectors are adjustably secured to at least some of the vertical support posts and displaceable along a substantially horizontal axis. The connectors have an outer attachment head formed of a material for removable magnetic attachment to outer decorative panel components. The panel components have magnetic connecting inserts secured to an inner surface thereof. |
| US08359680B2 |
Comfort bedpan
A bedpan for use by a patient may include a bottom section to define a cavity for waste of the patient and a top section to define a seat for the patient. The bottom section may be integral with the top section, and the top section may include a central soft texture section. The central soft texture section may be foam, and the bedpan may be formed by reaction injection molding process. The portion of the bedpan may include an anti-infection coating to prevent micro-bacterial formation and growth, and the bottom portion may include a rib for support. |
| US08359675B2 |
Flash fire and chemical resistant fabric and garments
A flash fire and chemical barrier composite fabric of a flame resistant fibrous basic layer; a radiant heat and chemical permeation barrier, the barrier including a metalized polymeric chemical permeation resistant layer film; and a clear heat sealable outer film layer overlying the radiant barrier and forming a heat sealable outer surface of the composite fabric. |
| US08359667B2 |
Athletic glove with enhanced tensioning
An athletic glove with enhanced tensioning is provided. The glove comprises a palm-side portion and a back portion connected to form four finger sheaths, a thumb sheath, and an opening capable of receiving a human hand. A keyhole cutout is located along the opening at a location corresponding to the back of a user's hand. A tension-adjusting wrist strap is attached to the glove on a first side of the keyhole adjacent to the opening. The wrist strap extends across the keyhole and is detachably affixable to a second side of the keyhole adjacent to the opening. The wrist strap may be used to adjust the tension across the palm-side portion by adjusting where the strap is detachably affixed. The wrist strap connects to the palm-side portion at an angle to optimize the distribution of tensioning force to reduce bunching in the palm-side portion and provide enhanced gripping. |
| US08359663B2 |
Babybody
A babybody includes a front piece (1) and a back piece, two shoulder sections (4) and a crotch (2). The distinguishing features of the babybody are that the back piece includes an outerlying element (3) and an innerlying element (5), that the innerlying element (5) has a free upper edge (10) and that an intermediate portion of the upper free edge (10) is situated at a level which is nearer to the crotch (2) than the ends of the upper free edge (10). |
| US08359662B2 |
Protective device
A protective device comprising a band part to be arranged on the wearer's head and a channel part arranged thereto and means for supplying air into the channel part and further through the end of the channel part to the wearer's facial area. The protective device further comprises a connecting part provided with two branch parts to be arranged at the end of the channel part, the ends of the branch parts being arranged to be connected to air supply means arranged in the mask part covering the wearer's mouth and nose. |
| US08365309B2 |
Memory device
A memory device that has a function used to continue or disrupt a supply of electric power used to retain data stored in a recording medium or a supply of operating electric power of a circuit used to read out data stored in a storage medium, using personal identification information is provided. When the recording medium is formed of a volatile memory, this memory device has a power supply used to manage a supply of electric power that is used for retention of the stored data using the personal identification information and to retain or erase stored data by continuation or disruption of a supply of electric power by use of the personal identification information. |
| US08365306B2 |
Platform and service for management and multi-channel delivery of multi-types of contents
A platform for managing delivery of content originating from one or more content providers to users is provided. The platform includes a portal that is configured to support access through a plurality of access channels configured to receive requests through one or more access channels. A request for content is received from an access device through an access channel. An identity management module is configured to determine a user associated with the message. A content manager is configured to manage content for delivery through the plurality of access channels and configured to determine eligible content for the user. A billing module is configured to process billing for the user and content provider based on the content provided to the user. The content manager is then configured to deliver the requested content to the user's access device through the access channel. |
| US08365305B2 |
E-mail with secure message parts
A method for preventing a recipient of an electronically transmitted message from taking at least one action in relation to the message is disclosed. The message has at least two parts with one of the parts having a higher level of security than the other part. The method includes the step of extracting information from the message. The information indicates that the higher level security part is not permitted to have the action taken on it while the other part is so permitted. The method also includes the step of preventing the higher level security part from having the action taken on it in reaction to said recipient making an offending request. |
| US08365302B2 |
Apparatus, systems and methods for authenticating widget access and widgets
In some embodiments, a content server receives a request for a widget from a web server, specifying a user identifier and a delegation server. If the delegation server is trusted, the user's identity is ascertained using the user identifier. The widget is delivered having a context of the user's identity. The content server receives a request to access content generated utilizing the widget incorporated into a web page and allows access based on the context of the widget. In other embodiments, a social network server receives a request from a web server for a widget. The widget is delivered having a source indicator. Subsequently, the social network server receives a request to access the social graph generated utilizing the widget incorporated into a web page. If the request includes a change to the social graph, the social network server allows the request if the widget is trusted. |
| US08365299B2 |
Information processing device and method, recording medium, and program
The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program which make it possible for persons at remote places to enjoy simultaneous playback of various contents while promoting the protection of the copyright or the privacy. A copyright authentication section 112 decides, based on copyright restriction information added to a content and license information stored in a license storage section 62, whether or not utilization of the content is permitted. An accounting processing section 114 is controlled in response to a result of the decision so that it cooperates with an authentication server to perform an accounting process. A privacy authentication section 115 decides, based on privacy restriction information added to the content and privacy information, whether or not utilization of the content is permitted. A permission request processing section 117 is controlled in response to a result of the decision so that it performs a communication process with a communication apparatus, which has a privacy management right in the content. The present invention can be applied to a communication system which supports remote place communication between users. |
| US08365297B1 |
System and method for detecting malware targeting the boot process of a computer using boot process emulation
System and method for detecting malware on a target computer system having a bootable device. Boot process information stored on the bootable device that at least partially defines a boot process of the target computer system is obtained, along with physical parameter data defining a storage arrangement structure of the bootable device. The boot process of the target computer system is emulated based on the boot process information and on the physical parameter data. The emulation includes executing instructions of the boot process information and tracking data accessed from the bootable device. A data structure representing the data accessed from the bootable device is stored during the emulation of the boot process. The data structure can be analyzed for any presence of boot process malware. |
| US08365296B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method and computer readable medium having a program
An information processing apparatus and method configured to access multiple external storage medium. The apparatus and method detect theft or loss (or otherwise unauthorized use) of the information processing apparatus with respect to data stored in multiple storage areas, back up the data to the storage medium, and record, in association with each of the storage medium, an easiness degree indicating how easily a user accesses the storage medium. The apparatus and method calculate erasure priority rankings of the data stored in a manner that an erasure priority ranking is higher as an easiness degree is higher, record the calculated erasure priority rankings in association with each of the multiple storage areas, and erases the data stored in the multiple storage areas in accordance with the erasure priority rankings when detecting theft or loss of the information processing apparatus. |
| US08365292B2 |
Methods and systems for managing a potential security threat to a network
Methods, systems and computer readable mediums storing computer executable programs for managing a potential security threat to a network are disclosed. Network data received at a network system within a network is monitored at a network management system. A determination is made at the network management system regarding whether the network data received at the network system poses a potential security threat to the network. A threat type associated with the potential security threat is identified at the network management system based on the determination. A threat assessment system operable to evaluate the identified threat type is identified at the network management system. A command is issued from the network management system to the network system to mirror network data received at the network system to the identified threat assessment system. |
| US08365291B1 |
Browser extension control flow graph based taint tracking
A computer-implemented method, a system and a computer program product for determining whether a browser extension leaks information over a network, is provided. A control flow graph (CFG) is generated from a source code included in the browser extension. The CFG is particular to the programming language included in the source code. A sensitive path in the CFG is determined. The sensitive path begins at a sensitive source node and ends at a sensitive end node. A set of tainted variables in the CFG are identified, where each tainted variable stores sensitive information. A subset of tainted variables is generated, where each tainted variable in the subset is included in the sensitive path. When a tainted variable in the subset is included in the sensitive end node it is associated with a leak of sensitive information by the browser extension over the network. |
| US08365286B2 |
Method and system for classification of software using characteristics and combinations of such characteristics
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for the steps of identifying a functional code block that performs a particular function within executable code; transforming the functional code block into a generic code representation of its functionality by tokenizing, refactoring, or the like, the functional code block; comparing the generic code representation with a previously characterized malicious code representation; and in response to a positive correlation from the comparison, identifying the executable code as containing malicious code. |
| US08365282B2 |
Security system based on input shortcuts for a computer device
A method of activating security functions on a computer device, for example a mobile communications device. The computer device includes a device state that may be realized by way of a first user input or a second user input. The method includes designating the first user input to realize the device state as a security rule having an associated security function, detecting realization of the device state, and activating the associated security function if the device state was realized by way of the second user input rather than the first user input. For example, the first user input may be a shortcut input, and the second user input may be a conventional or normal input. |
| US08365281B2 |
Determining whether method of computer program is a validator
An illegal pattern and a computer program having a method are received. The method has one or more return statements, and a number of basic blocks. The method is normalized so that each return statement of the target method relating to the illegal pattern returns a constant Boolean value. A first path condition and a second path condition for one or more corresponding paths is determined such that one or more corresponding basic blocks return a constant Boolean value of true for the first path condition and a constant Boolean value of false for the second path condition. An unsatisfiability of each path condition is determined using a monadic second-order logic (M2L) technique. Where the unsatisfiability of either path condition is false, the method is reported as not being a validator. Where the unsatisfiability of either path condition is true, the method is reported as being a validator. |
| US08365276B1 |
System, method and computer program product for sending unwanted activity information to a central system
A system, method and computer program product are provided for sending, to a central system, information associated with unwanted activity. In use, information associated with unwanted activity is identified utilizing a plurality of different types of security systems. Further, the information is sent to a central system. |
| US08365275B2 |
Image processing apparatus, session managing method and session managing program
An image processing apparatus, a session managing method, and a session managing program allow an operator to change his or her role flexibly. The image processing apparatus comprises a session managing unit for managing information about an operator who is logged in as a session, and a role determination unit for determining a role of the operator. The session managing unit includes a login session unit that is generated upon login of the operator, and a subject unit that generates information indicating the operator, a group to which the operator belongs, and an existing role of the operator. Upon request for a role change from the operator, the login session unit requests initialization of the subject unit. The subject unit then generates information indicating a role after role change based on the role after role change that is confirmed by the role determination unit. |
| US08365273B2 |
Method and arrangement for providing security through network address translations using tunneling and compensations
This invention provides a method for providing network security services, such as those provided by the IPSEC protocol, through network address translation (NAT). The method is based on determining the transformations that occur on a packet and compensating for the transformations. Because only TCP and UDP protocols work through NATs, the IPSEC AH/ESP packets are encapsulated into UDP packets for transport. Special operations are performed to allow reliable communications in such environments. |
| US08365271B2 |
Controlling access of a client system to access protected remote resources supporting relative URLs
A client system is controlled for accessing protected remote resources via a Web Application using a rewriter proxy that supports relative URLs. In one configuration, the Web application can be a Portal application. A URL utility module can be provided for a rewriter proxy that splits an absolute URL into a base part (the URL string up to the resource) and the resource part. A security module computes an authentication identifier for the base part. This can occur by applying a secure hash algorithm and/or secret key. The URL utility module then constructs the rewritten URL by concatenating the URL encoded base part, the authentication identifier, and the resource part as separate path elements. |
| US08365263B2 |
Method for managing usage authorizations in a data processing network and a data processing network
To facilitate the work of a user with a data processing network with a number of security levels of the applications and functions to be executed, a method is proposed for managing usage authorizations in this data processing network. In at least one embodiment of the method, when a user logs in at a work station, at least one role stored in a central authorization register is allocated to the user; when an application is called up a local security module of the application determines which authorizations are granted for the role of the user; and if there is no authorization for an application-related action, a central security module accesses a central collection of security rules, the security rules indicating the circumstances, in which, when a user's authorizations are not sufficient to carry out the application-related action, the user can still carry it out and determines whether according to at least one of the security rules a usage authority is possible for the application-related action and offers this to the user. |
| US08365262B2 |
Method for automatically generating and filling in login information and system for the same
A system for automatically generating and filling login information to improve the security in storage and use of the login information. The system comprises a monitoring module, a registration module, and a login module; the monitoring module is coupled to the registration module and the login module; the monitoring module is adapted to check for an entry of login information corresponding to the identifier of the current page, and prompt a result to the user, and transmit a signal to the registration module and the login module to perform a registration and/or login operation; the registration module comprises a login information generation unit, a login information storage unit, and a first user confirmation unit; and the login module comprises a login information input unit and a second user confirmation unit. A method for the same is also disclosed. |
| US08365259B2 |
Security message processing
Systems, methods and apparatus for handling security messages in a distributed security system. Requests, replies, and/or updates have varying time constraints. Processing node managers and authority node managers determine the best transmission times and/or the ignoring of such data to maximize information value. |
| US08365255B1 |
Configuration file download enforcement
Methods and devices are provided for detecting or preventing unauthorized upgrades to a customer's quality of service in an access data network. Several aspects of the invention require customer nodes to properly perform an initialization procedure. For example, the initialization procedure may involve making a request to a server controlled by, or at least trusted by, the service provider. The initialization procedure may involve downloading a configuration file, such as a DOCSIS configuration file, from the trusted server. According to some such aspects of the invention, nodes that cannot properly perform the initialization procedure are prevented from coming online. According to other such aspects of the invention, nodes that cannot properly perform the initialization procedure are marked. A warning may be sent to marked nodes. A customer associated with a marked node may be charged a higher rate for service. |
| US08365252B2 |
Providing access levels to services based on mobile device security state
A mobile device's level of access to services provided by a service provider is based on a current security state assessment of the mobile device. Mobile devices are granted different access levels to services based on the security state of the device. A security component can assess the current security state of the mobile device by processing security data generated by the mobile device. In a specific embodiment, the security component is at the mobile device. In another specific embodiment, the security component is at a server. |
| US08365245B2 |
Previous password based authentication
Illustrative embodiments provide a computer implemented method, a data processing system, and a computer program product for previous password based authentication. In one illustrative embodiment, the computer implemented method comprises obtaining a combination of an identifier and a password and determining whether the password is current and correct. The computer implemented method responsive to determining the password is other than current and correct, prompting for an old password and determining whether the old password matches a previous password. Responsive to the old password matching a previous password, thereby creating a password match, permitting access to a resource. |
| US08365238B2 |
Method and apparatus for using the video blanking period for the maintenance of a modem that is used for wireless transmission of video
The vertical blanking period is an idle period in video transmission that was originally intended for allowing the trace back of an electron beam to its point of origin. When sending the video signal over a wireless channel, the wireless channel may remain free of transmission of data during this period. However, in wireless transmission of a video signal in general, and in the transmission of an essentially uncompressed video signal in particular, there is a need to use all the bandwidth available, especially when transmitting a high-definition video signal. Therefore, a method is taught for using the vertical blanking period of a video signal for modem maintenance. |
| US08365228B2 |
Information transmitting apparatus and method, information receiving apparatus and method, provider, and broadcasting system
MPEG video encoders and MPEG audio encoders encode video signals and audio signals, respectively. An SI/EPG data generator generates program information. A transport stream multiplexer multiplexes the program information with video data and audio data. A system controller controls the data output rates of the encoding operations and the multiplexing ratio. |
| US08365227B2 |
Methods and systems for online recommendation
A method for recommending videos is presented. The method includes generating a cross-usage matrix based upon a data of video sessions for a plurality of videos, generating a temporal matrix based upon release dates of the plurality of videos, generating a cross-temporal matrix based upon the cross-usage matrix and the temporal matrix, computing a global video rank corresponding to each of the plurality of videos based upon the cross-temporal matrix, generating a similarity score corresponding to each pair of videos in the plurality of videos based upon meta-data of the plurality of videos, and generating a local video rank corresponding to each of the plurality of videos relative to another video in the plurality of videos based upon the generated cross-usage matrix, the computed global video rank and the generated similarity score. |
| US08365224B2 |
Extended description to support targeting scheme, and TV anytime service and system employing the same
The present research relates to description supporting a targeting scheme, more particularly, to an extended description structure supporting a targeting scheme and a TV-Anytime service providing method and system employing the same based on Moving Picture Experts Group 21 (MPEG-21) Usage Environment Description (UED) tools. The TV-Anytime service providing system employing the extended description structure includes a service providing apparatus for generating package metadata including user information and usage environment information; and a user device for acquiring the package metadata including user information and usage environment information from the service providing apparatus through diverse access networks. |
| US08365223B2 |
Device control processing apparatus and method, display processing apparatus and method, and computer program
An apparatus and method capable of selecting and providing content while reducing the load on a user are provided. A controlled device is determined based on content identification information. Control information corresponding to the determined controlled device is generated and output to, for example, a remote controller, and device control is performed based on a control signal from the remote controller. The user can output and view content without performing processing necessary to output the content, such as processing on a control device, a channel operation to the control device, and searching for the content storage location. Further, content cards recording content information are displayed as a card group and content information of a card at a position of a cursor is displayed. |
| US08365222B2 |
Animated station identifier in program guides
A television program guide is displayed having a station identifier portion in a first location. A determination is made as to when a user navigates in the television program guide between past programs and future programs. In response to the user navigating in the television program guide between the past programs and the future programs, the station identifier portion is changed to a second location. |
| US08365221B2 |
Selective search and display for categorized channels in a subscriber television system
In a subscriber television system, assigning categories to a channel as an entity reduces the searching requirements associated with searching a database of thousands of individual program records, identifying the channel on which an identified program will be displayed, and then sorting the resultant information. The channel information is searched for the assigned category information and the associated program information for just those channels is retrieved. This reduces the processor requirements for searching the thousands of records in the program records database. With the reduced processor requirements and the increased efficiency of information organization for searching, a single machine state change is possible between viewing full screen video and a browse banner or between viewing full screen program information and video with a browse banner. |
| US08365220B2 |
Interactive entertainment and information system using television set-top box
An interactive entertainment and information system using a television set-top box, wherein pages of information are periodically provided to the set-top box for user interaction therewith. The pages include associated meta-data defining active locations on each page. When a page is displayed, the user interacts with the active locations on the page by entering commands via a remote control device, whereby the system reads the meta-data and takes the action associated with the location. Actions include moving to other active locations, hyperlinking to other pages, entering user form data and submitting the data as a form into memory. The form data may be read from memory, and the pages may be related to a conventional television program, thereby providing significant user interactivity with the television. |
| US08365218B2 |
Networked television and method thereof
A television and a method thereof are provided. The television includes a display, a first network interface to a packet-based network, and a decoder operable to process a multimedia data stream received via the first network interface, wherein the television is operable to display video content of the multimedia data stream on the display promptly upon receipt of a user request to power up the television. The method includes receiving a multimedia data stream at a network interface of a television, wherein the network interface is coupled to a packet-based network, processing the multimedia data stream at a decoder of the television to generate video content and providing the video content to a display of the television, wherein the television displays video content of the multimedia data stream promptly upon receipt of a request to power up the television. |
| US08365215B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program products for providing ad insertion via a multimedia applications gateway
Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing advertisement insertion to a user device are disclosed. A method includes providing a multimedia applications gateway (MAG) that is connected to an access gateway for a domain or a multimedia applications gateway that includes an integrated access gateway function, the access gateway in communication with user devices. The method also includes configuring the MAG to convert multimedia program content from a program source received at the access gateway and transmitted from the access gateway to a user device into a first communication having an open standards protocol recognized by each of the user devices, the first communication representing programming content. The method further includes configuring the MAG to convert multimedia advertising content into a second communication having the open standards protocol, the second communication representing advertising content. The method also includes retrieving the second communication from local memory, inserting the second communication within the first communication, and presenting the first and second communications on the device. |
| US08365214B2 |
Systems and method for determining visual media information
A set top box includes a processor. The processor is configured to receive a digital video stream, calculate a hash of an I-Frame within the digital video stream, and submit the hash to a server. The processor is further configured to receive location information in response to submitting the hash to the server. |
| US08365208B2 |
Optical disk player
An optical disk player includes a main body, a cover engaging with the main body, a pivot module, and a deceleration module. The pivot module includes a torsion spring, two ends of the torsion spring being fixed on the main body and the cover respectively. The deceleration module includes a first deceleration portion arranged on the main body and a second deceleration portion arranged on the pivot module. The first deceleration portion contacts the second deceleration portion and frictional forces therebetween reduces the speed of opening the cover. |
| US08365203B2 |
Method for creating a native application for mobile communications device in real-time
A software client (139) for executing an application on a mobile communications device, the software client (139) comprising: a receiver module (140) to receive a file containing mark up language to define the application; a parser (141) to parse the file in order to generate the application during run time to create a native application for the mobile communications device; a screen builder (142) to generate UI components for the native application by mapping procedures defined by the mark-up Language to native application programming interface (API) calls of the operating platform of the mobile communications device. |
| US08365195B2 |
Systems and methods for generating sets of model objects having data messaging pipes
Embodiments relate to generating sets of model objects having data messaging pipes. A modeling client can host modeling logic and an application programming interface (API) to create, access, manipulate, and import/export modeling objects used in modeling applications, such as engineering, medical, financial, and other modeling platforms. The source data accepted into the modeling client can include consumer or business-level applications, whose spreadsheet, database or other content can be extracted and encapsulated in object-oriented format, such as extensible markup language (XML) format. A set of modeling objects can be connected via data messaging pipes on a selective basis, so that individual objects can transmit or receive data outputs generated by other objects. The model objects can share, exchange, or combine computational outputs, internal data, and other information from other model object(s). Multiple pipes can be established at various levels or dimensions between objects or groups of objects. |
| US08365193B2 |
Recoverable asynchronous message driven processing in a multi-node system
An approach provides for recovery of message driven directors responsible for dynamically allocating resources within a multi-node database system. The receipt of a message, the action taken in response to it, and other messages sent in furtherance of the action, are performed within a single transaction. In this way, the messages and other data are left in a state consistent with the message and action taken in response being fully processed or not processed at all. A standby director, stepping in for a crashed director, inherits a state consistent with where a crashed director last successfully completed an action. The approach insulates directors from the special perils of performing high latency actions by delegating the performance of such actions to a job, (i.e. another process). |
| US08365189B2 |
Method and apparatus for a service control layer
This invention relates to a method, system and computer program product for managing a service message in a service oriented architecture system including a service provider, a service consumer and a set of control services, the method, system and computer program product comprising the following steps: receiving a service message; selecting a group of rules from a set of rule groups depending on the type of service message; selecting a control service from a set of control services and instructing the selected control service according to one or more of the rules from the selected rules group applied to the service message. |
| US08365183B2 |
System and method for dynamic resource provisioning for job placement
A method for dynamic resource provisioning for job placement includes receiving a request to perform a job on an unspecified computer device. One or more job criteria for performing the job are determined. Each job criteria defines a required operational characteristic needed for a computer device to perform the job. A list of available computer devices is provided. The list includes a plurality of computer devices currently provisioned to perform computer operations. A list of suitable computer devices for performing the job is determined from the list of available computer devices by comparing operational characteristics for each available computer device with the job criteria. The list of suitable computer devices includes one or more computer devices having operational characteristics that satisfy the job criteria. From the list of suitable computer devices, a least active computer device is determined, and the job is forwarded to the least active computer device. |
| US08365181B2 |
Method and system for guiding scheduling decisions in clusters of computers using dynamic job profiling
A method and system for scheduling jobs in a cluster of compute servers using dynamic job profiling improves the overall performance of the computing cluster. Specifically, the method and system monitors the performance of individual compute servers in a cluster, and assigns jobs to particular compute servers based on the most current performance information of the compute servers. As the job profiles of the compute servers change with every job processed, the decision as to which compute server is most appropriate for a particular job will dynamically change. Various scheduling algorithms can be used in connection with the method and system to assign jobs to specific compute servers based on the available information in the job profiles. |
| US08365180B2 |
Information terminal, computer resource managing method, and virtual machine execution switching method
An in-vehicle terminal (101) is provided, which has a function ensuring that computer resource secured by a virtual machine (1a1) or a virtual machine (1b1) is controlled within a limit value of the computer resource that is allocated to the corresponding virtual machine, or a function which is capable of executing multiple virtual machines appropriately.When the virtual machine (1a1) or the virtual machine (1b1) requests securing the computer resource, the in-vehicle terminal (101) requests the OS (143) to secure computer resource in response to the request, if the requested resource is lower than the limit value of the computer resource that is allocated to the corresponding virtual machine. Furthermore, the in-vehicle terminal (101) checks at predetermined intervals the continuously selected count of the virtual machine previously selected, and if the continuously selected count is equal to the limit value, or the virtual machine is in standby state, a different virtual machine is selected and the OS (143) is instructed to execute the selected virtual machine. |
| US08365177B2 |
Dynamically monitoring and rebalancing resource allocation of monitored processes based on execution rates of measuring processes at multiple priority levels
Measuring processes are started at a plurality of priority levels. A different one of the measuring processes is started for each of the priority levels. Subsequently, for each of the measuring processes, it is determined whether each measuring process is scheduled for executing at a respective target rate. In response to determining that a particular measuring process of the measuring processes is not scheduled for executing at a particular target rate, resource allocation to at least one monitored process running at a particular level of the priority levels is adjusted. The at least one monitored process is not any of the measuring processes. |
| US08365175B2 |
Power management using dynamic application scheduling
One embodiment provides a method of managing power in a datacenter having a plurality of servers. A number of policy settings are specified for the power center, including a power limit for the datacenter. The power consumption attributable to each of a plurality of applications executable as a job on one or more of the servers is determined. The power consumption attributable to each application may be further qualified according to the type of server on which the application is executed. Having determined the power consumption attributable to various applications executable as jobs, the applications may be executed on the servers as jobs such that the total power consumption attributable to the currently executed jobs remains within the selected datacenter power limit. |
| US08365174B2 |
System and method for modifying scheduling of queries in response to the balancing average stretch and maximum stretch of scheduled queries
A mixed workload scheduler and operating method efficiently handle diverse queries ranging from short less-intensive queries to long resource-intensive queries. A scheduler is configured for scheduling mixed workloads and comprises an analyzer and a schedule controller. The analyzer detects execution time and wait time of a plurality of queries and balances average stretch and maximum stretch of scheduled queries wherein query stretch is defined as a ratio of a sum of wait time and execution time to execution time of a query. The schedule controller modifies scheduling of queries according to service level differentiation. |
| US08365173B2 |
Method and apparatus for on-demand resource allocation and job management
The invention is a method and apparatus for on-demand resource planning for unified messaging services. In one embodiment, multiple clients are served by a single system, and existing system resources are allocated among all clients in a manner that optimizes system output and service provider profit without the need to increase system resources. In one embodiment, resource allocation and job scheduling are guided by individual service level agreements between the service provider and the clients that dictate minimum service levels that must be achieved by the system. Jobs are processed in a manner that at least meets the specified service levels, and the benefit or profit derived by the service provider is maximized by prioritizing incoming job requests within the parameters of the specified service levels while meeting the specified service levels. Thus, operation and hardware costs remain substantially unchanged, while system output and profit are maximized. |
| US08365172B2 |
Horizontal scaling of stream processing
A computer implemented method, data processing system, and computer program product for dynamically scheduling algorithms in a pipeline which operate on a stream of data. The illustrative embodiments determine a computational cost of each algorithm in a plurality of algorithms in a pipeline. The plurality of algorithms in the pipeline processes an incoming data stream in a first sequential algorithm order. The illustrative embodiments reorder the plurality of algorithms in the pipeline to form a second sequential algorithm order based on the computational cost of each algorithm. The plurality of algorithms may then be executed in the second sequential algorithm order. When the illustrative embodiments assign a spare processing unit to an algorithm at an end of the pipeline, the computational cost of each algorithm in the plurality of algorithms in the pipeline is redetermined. |
| US08365162B2 |
Method and device arrangement for managing the use profile of a terminal device
A method, device arrangement, server, terminal device, and a computer program product for changing the use profile of a single terminal device of a cellular network are described. In the method, a server is connected to a telecommunications network, which sends to a single terminal device a program required by the change of its use profile as an over-the-air message, if the terminal device has found the program to be lacking from the terminal device when the new use profile is taken into use. Procedures according to the Device Management standard of Open Mobile Alliance are utilized in the messaging. |
| US08365157B2 |
System and method for early platform dependency preparation of intermediate code representation during bytecode compilation
A system and method for early platform dependency preparation of intermediate code representation during bytecode compilation in a virtual machine (VM), or other runtime environment, and particularly for use in a system that includes a Java Virtual Machine (JVM). Current techniques for separating the platform dependent intermediate representation from the platform independent intermediate representation using a watertight abstraction layer gives non-optimal side effects (such as compiler source code duplication or inefficiency in the generated code). Embodiments of the present invention enable the compiler to construct platform dependent idioms using medium level intermediate code, and maintain the platform dependent construct all the way to the final native code. |
| US08365155B2 |
Software analysis framework
Presently described is a decompilation method of operation and system for parsing executable code, identifying and recursively modeling data flows, identifying and recursively modeling control flow, and iteratively refining these models to provide a complete model at the nanocode level. The nanocode decompiler may be used to determine if flaws, security vulnerabilities, or general quality issues exist in the code. The nanocode decompiler outputs in a standardized, human-readable intermediate representation (IR) designed for automated or scripted analysis and reporting. Reports may take the form of a computer annotated and/or partially human annotated nanocode listing in the above-described IR. Annotations may include plain English statements regarding flaws and pointers to badly constructed data structures, unchecked buffers, malicious embedded code or “trap doors,” and the like. Annotations may be generated through a scripted analysis process or by means of an expert-enhanced, quasi-autonomous system. |
| US08365152B2 |
Path-sensitive analysis through infeasible-path detection and syntactic language refinement
A system and method for infeasible path detection includes performing a static analysis on a program to prove a property of the program. If the property is not proved, infeasible paths in the program are determined by performing a path-insensitive abstract interpretation. Information about such infeasible paths is used to achieve the effects of path-sensitivity in path-insensitive program analysis. |
| US08365149B2 |
Debugger for a declarative event-driven programming model
A compiler generates code providing an execution sequence, from a declarative event-driven model, for execution by a computer. To assist in debugging the declarative event-driven model, the compiler also generates cross-references that relate steps in the generated code to elements of the declarative source code. The cross-references may be used as input to a debugger, along with the declarative source and the generated code, to assist a user who is stepping through the generated code (for example) in understanding which portion of the declarative source gave rise to the current step in the generated execution sequence. |
| US08365144B1 |
Proxy graphical user interface generation
An exemplary embodiment may provide tools for creating a graphical user interface (GUI) in a first or original environment and for embedding the GUI in a second or target environment. The GUI created in the first environment may be translated into a platform independent description. A proxy GUI may be generated from the platform independent description and incorporated in the second environment. |
| US08365143B2 |
Dynamic languages for static hosts
Using language add-ins with one or more static extensibility points of an application host. The method includes searching for user code in a user code store. Some user code is found in the user code store. A determination is made as to the language of the user code from among a plurality of predefined languages. The user code is provided to a language provider for the determined language. A function invocation is received from an application host. The function invocation is matched to at least a portion of the user code. The at least a portion of user code corresponding to the function invocation is executed via the language provider. |
| US08365142B2 |
Hypergraph implementation
A hypergraph implementation system is described. The hypergraph implementation system provides for a hypergraph template library that contains many hypergraphs and many bulk data areas. The hypergraphs allow a developer to program an application such that the pointers to files are contained in the memory cache. The hypergraphs consist of hyperedges and vertices residing in tables of indices that point into each other in a flat organization. Bulk data is hung directly off hyperedges and vertices via a set of features. Thus, all the relationships among objects are contained within the hypergraphs and all the bulk data such as audio, large tables, geometry and images are directly tied to hyperedges or vertices with one link. |
| US08365141B1 |
Aliases within a graphical model of a design
Blocks in a graphical model of a system may be assigned aliases. A user may interact with the aliases. In one implementation, a method may include displaying the alias in a view of the model that does not include the block associated with the alias and modifying, in response to user interaction with the alias, a graphical view of the model or properties of the block associated with the alias. |
| US08365140B2 |
Automated methods and systems for developing and deploying projects in parallel
Embodiments of the invention are directed to system and method for managing parallel development of projects. One embodiment of the invention is a method of automatically managing processes in the parallel development of an application through a graphical user interface. The graphical user interface manages the automated processes, which are able to complete their tasks without further user interaction. The automated processes managed by the graphical user interface include, provisioning a first development environment and second development environment. The processes also includes deploying a second release of an application to the second development environment, and merging modifications to the second source code and the second content of the second release into a first source code and a first content of the first release. After the releases have been merged together, the process automatically deploys the third release of the application to a production environment for use by users. |
| US08365137B2 |
Systems and methods using an invocation model of process expression
Invocation language is described that is suitable for controlling a machine to perform a process having concurrent parts. Each concurrent part has an association relationship, a completeness relation, and an invocation expression. |
| US08365136B2 |
Creating parallel control flows in business process models
A system may include a composition engine that is configured to include a receiving engine that is configured to receive a series of states and transitions from an object lifecycle. The composition engine may include a computation engine that is configured to compute actions from the transitions and to compute preconditions and effects for the actions from the states. The composition engine may include a relations engine that is configured to compute relations between the actions and a parallel process engine that is configured to generate a parallel process fragment that includes at least two of the actions based on the relations between the actions. |
| US08365132B2 |
Hierarchial power map for low power design
A computer-implemented method for debugging the power aspect of an IC design by integrating the power specification expressed in certain power specification format and its corresponding circuit design within a power schematic diagram called power map. Power map is created by using a power data base generated by regrouping the original circuit design hierarchy to new hierarchies defined by the power specification. Power map contains power cell symbols (such as isolation cells, level shifters, power switches) and signal nets, and can show the relationship between power domains. Power map can also display mismatches or errors between the power specification and the circuit design for those signals connecting the power domains. Furthermore, power map can be used in conjunction with simulation result. |
| US08365128B2 |
Routing interconnect of integrated circuit designs
Routing methods for an integrated circuit design layout are disclosed. The layout can include design netlists and library cells. A multiple-level global routing can generate topological wire for each net. An area oriented graph-based detail routing on the design can be performed. A post route optimization after the detail routing can be performed to further improve the routing quality. Some methods can be single threaded all or some of the time, and/or multi-threaded some or all of the time. |
| US08365125B1 |
Method and system for power distribution analysis
Disclosed are systems and methods for electrical verification of integrated circuits. Methodologies are described for verification of the power and ground distribution systems (PDS) for system-on-a-chip (SoC) and the verification of the interaction of the PDS with the behavior of integrated circuits. |
| US08365123B2 |
Automated pad ring generation for programmable logic device implementation of integrated circuit design
In an embodiment, a method to automatically generate a pad ring for a programmable logic device implementation of an integrated circuit is contemplated. The pad ring that will be used in the integrated circuit itself may include pad logic (e.g. to support boundary scan and other forms of testing), custom driver/receiver circuitry, etc. The pad ring in the programmable logic device, on the other hand, may be predetermined as part of the production of the programmable logic device. The generation may include removing the pad logic and other pad-related circuitry from one or more design files that represent the integrated circuit, as well as mapping the input, output, and input/output signals of the integrated circuit to the available programmable logic device pads. |
| US08365122B2 |
Method and apparatus for configurable systems
The present invention relates to a flexible analog/digital configuration, preferably on a chip, that can be used for receiving various inputs, processing those inputs, and displaying/communicating the results and/or providing a response thereto. More particularly, the present invention can measure multiple parameters and, when properly programmed, can easily organize the data from multiple sensors or other analog or digital sources. It can present or display different, or similar, pages for setting up each measurement (or each measured parameter) (e.g., by sensor, class of sensors, etc.) to enable an easy to use approach for individuals without needing to know the specifics as to many parameters. This user-friendly approach can be performed using a configurable chip module system. A configurable chip module system can include analog elements, digital elements, and connection elements between the analog and digital elements, where some of the analog elements and/or digital elements receive inputs from one or more sources and where some of the analog elements and/or digital elements generate output signals for generating control signals and/or outputs that present measurements to output receiving elements. The system includes a configuration mechanism that automatically configures the connection elements in response to receiving selections entered on a user interface, where the user interface allows a user to input commands to modify the structure of the chip module system. |
| US08365120B2 |
Resolving global coupling timing and slew violations for buffer-dominated designs
A mechanism is provided for resolving uplift or coupling timing problems and slew violations without sacrificing late mode timing in integrated circuit (IC) designs. Responsive to a request being received to generate a new IC design, for each net in a plurality of nets in the new IC design, a determination is made as to whether the net is routable through a cell in a plurality of cells using a cost function associated with the cell such that a coupling capacitance associated with the net is equal to or below a predetermined coupling capacitance threshold. Responsive to net being able to be routed through the cell with the coupling capacitance being equal to or below the threshold, the net is assigned to at least one track within the cell. Responsive to all nets in the new IC design being routed, a new IC design is generated. |
| US08365118B2 |
Broken-spheres methodology for improved failure probability analysis in multi-fail regions
A failure probability for a system having multi-fail regions is computed by generating failure directions in a space whose dimensions are the system parameters under consideration. The failure directions are preferably uniform, forming radial slices. The failure directions may be weighted. The radial slices have fail boundaries defining fail regions comparable to broken shells. The distribution of the system parameters is integrated across the broken shell regions to derive a failure contribution for each failure direction. The failure probability is the sum of products of each failure contribution and its weight. Failure contributions are computed using equivalent expressions dependent on the number of dimensions, which can be used to build lookup tables for normalized fail boundary radii. The entire process can be iteratively repeated with successively increasing failure directions until the failure probability converges. The method is particularly useful in analyzing failure probability of electrical circuits such as memory cells. |
| US08365112B2 |
Verification apparatus and design verification program
In a design verification apparatus, a priority resolver selects one or more verification datasets for verifying a procedure described in a design specification of a target product, in response to a verification request for that procedure. The priority resolver determines a priority score of each parameter that the selected verification datasets specify as a constraint on the procedure. A verification order resolver determines a verification order of the selected verification datasets, based on the priority scores determined by the priority resolver. An output processor produces data identifying the verification datasets, together with indication of the determined verification order. |
| US08365111B2 |
Data driven logic simulation
An apparatus and method may be used for compiling a hardware logic design into data-driven logic programs to be executed on a data-driven chip. The apparatus may include storage with a library for defining a net-list synthesized by a synthesis tool. The apparatus may also include a data-driven logic verification chip comprising a plurality of logic processors. The apparatus may further include a code generator for adopting heuristics to convert the net-list into data driven logic programs and for allocating hardware resources to balance computing and storage loads across the plurality of logic processors of the verification chip. |
| US08365100B2 |
System and method for generating an informational media display on a document processing device
The subject application is directed to a document processing device and associated method for generating an informational display on a document processing device. The method includes receiving preselected media content and displaying the preselected media content on a display of the document processing device. The method further includes receiving user identification data and retrieving user-specified media content preference data identifying a user-specified media content preferred by a user associated with the user identification data. The method also includes displaying the user-specified media content on the display of the document processing device in response to receipt of a request to complete a document processing operation using the document processing device. |
| US08365099B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of controlling the mobile terminal
A method of controlling a mobile terminal and which includes displaying a first screen image on a touch screen of the mobile terminal as an idle background screen, receiving a touch and drag input operation being performed on the touch screen including the displayed first screen image, and displaying a second screen image corresponding to a direction of the touch and drag input operation, said second screen image corresponding to a new idle background screen. |
| US08365096B2 |
Method and apparatus for transparently mapping personalized alert preferences onto thin client devices with differing capabilities
A method and apparatus that personalizes preferences for a thin client using custom menus is disclosed. The method may include receiving registering capabilities from the thin client, storing feature list for all devices, generation of a custom alert settings menu based on the thin client's capabilities, storing selected alert settings, and generating a list of all registered devices that have similar alert capabilities as the thin client. The custom menu can be viewed by a user on any device that has display capabilities. The user can select from among the alert settings supported by the thin client or select the alert settings for the thin client that is similar to a registered device. Apparatus is also provided for mapping alert capabilities from the feature list and the received alert preferences from a user. Thin client mapping of mapping of alert type is also provided for processing an alert request from an external device. |
| US08365095B2 |
System and method for assigning and scheduling activities
Techniques to facilitate assignment and scheduling of activities. In accordance with a method, a chart showing a calendar of schedule for a number of available resources is provided in a first frame (or window) in a user interface menu, and a number of objects representative of a number of unplanned activities are provided in a second frame. A selection for an unplanned activity in the second frame (or a planned activity in the first frame) is received and, in response, selected ones of a number of objects in the chart are highlighted based on the selected activity. A request to assign the selected activity to a selected resource and to schedule the selected activity for a particular time duration is thereafter received. The requested assignment and scheduling may be accepted or rejected based on the requirements of the selected activity and the capabilities of the selected resource. |
| US08365094B2 |
Hierarchical structure display device
The hierarchical structure display device includes a hierarchical structure storing unit, a display unit, and a display control unit. The hierarchical structure storing unit stores information about a hierarchical structure of menus where each item contained in a menu is linked to a directly beneath level menu. The display control unit controls the display unit to display at least one menu in the display screen and to preserve at least a first region in the display screen for displaying titles of items contained in a menu of interest. The titles of items contained in a menu are arranged one after another in the second direction with each title extending in the first direction, and the first region has a first length in the first direction long enough to entirely visibly indicate the titles of items. When the designating unit designates items in succession while advancing to a deeper level of the menus, the display control unit controls the display unit to preserve in the display screen not only the first region but also a second region that has a second length extending in the first direction and being shorter than the first length and to display at least a part of the menus in the second region. |
| US08365088B1 |
Interactive design environment having design tool portion and density display portion
Exemplary embodiments provide an interactive tool that allows users to design and evaluate storage mechanisms while program code executes. For example, an embodiment uses compact histogram density scales (CHDS's) to display count information for bins making up the storage mechanism (e.g., a register). The user can determine whether counts are within a desirable range, exceeding an overflow threshold, or exceeding an underflow threshold for a bin. Embodiments allow the user to observe overflow/underflow thresholds, signedness, word lengths, fraction lengths, etc., while program code that interacts with the register executes. |
| US08365086B2 |
System and method for building graphical instrument panels
A mechanism for constructing a software-based instrument panel or front panel in which the components correspond directly with sections of code in a textual language program is disclosed. The textual language program relates to how the panel updates and operates in a continuous fashion. Icons representing panel components are selected from a component library window displayed to a user. The act of dragging the icon representing the components into the Graphical Panel Layout Window automatically causes the corresponding code to be added to the textual language program and displayed to the user in a Program Dialog Window. The present invention displays both a Graphical Panel Layout Window showing the components in the instrument panel and a Program Dialog Window showing the lines of code for the textual language program controlling the operation of the components in the instrument panel. A library containing I/O dialog devices is also presented and displayed to a user. The selection by the user of an I/O device icon and the subsequent dragging of the icon into either the Graphical Panel Layout Window or the Program Dialog Window causes the associated lines of code to appear in the Program Dialog Window. |
| US08365083B2 |
Customizable, categorically organized graphical user interface for utilizing online and local content
A graphical user interface for accessing, managing, organizing and using local and online content from a personal computer. The graphical user interface is divided into several modules, displayed on the display screen of the computer. Some of these modules are categories, which contain links to content online and on the hard drive of the computer. The user can customize these categories and the links within them to suit his or her personal needs, interests, and tastes. One or more of the modules within the GUI are media players. The user can select content by dragging and dropping a link from the desktop, another application, or a category within the GUI onto the media player. Applications required to access content referred to by links within the categories of the graphical user interface are launched at the time that the GUI is launched. |
| US08365082B2 |
Universal content referencing, packaging, distribution system, and a tool for customizing web content
A computer tool allows a user to manipulate displayed content of a web page by a user device. The computer tool may be used to implement a collapsing, foldable browser that allows users to customize web content. The computer tool receives an indication of a user defined first portion of the content of a web page displayed by a browser, determines a remaining portion of the content of the web other than the first portion; and renders only the first user defined portion on a display screen of a display associated with the user device. An attribute may be associated with the first portion and displayed in proximity to the first portion to provide functions to manipulate the first portion within the display screen of the display associated with the user device. A menu may be associated with the attribute. The menu may include functions to allow toggling between display of only first portion and the first portion combined with a remaining portion, to minimize the browser, to close the browser to a file, and to expand display of only the first portion to display the browser window in addition to the first portion. |
| US08365080B2 |
Document reminder system
A document reminder system is provided. The system provides a user-friendly interface to a user's existing document management, email, calendar and other systems in order to ensure that an appropriate user is notified when action should be taken on a specific document, and also provides notation to the user indicating the appropriate course of action to be taken. The system provides a calendaring feature where a supervisor or manager can determine the workload of a group of workers for an upcoming time period. The system provides an easily accessible and traceable database of information pertaining to a document, a client name, a client matter number, a document type, or other customizable fields in order for a user to search and sort the information for their own use. |
| US08365078B2 |
Method for multidimensional visual correlation of systems management data
A method, apparatus, and computer program product for monitoring the performance of a system. The mechanism of the present invention provides an interface in the form of a graphical user interface (GUI) to communicate multiple layers of system performance data to an operator. An operator monitors this display of information and uses it to determine how to adjust the system to optimize system performance. This mechanism of the present invention provides immediate feedback to an operator by displaying a trail of metric points, wherein the metric points indicate the status of system performance over a period of time. In this manner, the display mechanism of the present invention immediately conveys to an operator whether the system is operating within predefined margins, the results of performance adjustments made to the system, as well as predictions or trends for the system. |
| US08365077B2 |
Help menu display processing with reference to provisional and definitive user selections
An information processor includes an information processing unit that executes an information process by reference to a setting, a setting unit that executes a provisional selection to select one or more selection items among multiple selection items and a definitive selection for deciding the provisional selection by reference to an operation by a user and determines a setting of the information process by reference to a result of the definitive selection, a determination unit that determines a selection item to be explained by reference to one or more selection item provisionally selected by the setting unit, and an explanation outputting unit that outputs an explanation for the user for the selection item to be explained which is determined by the determination unit. |
| US08365074B1 |
Navigation control for an electronic device
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media, for suggesting search queries relevant to a user's context. One of the methods includes providing a navigation control for navigating in a graphical space. A portion of a large-scale graphical space is displayed on a screen of an electronic device and a navigation control is generated and displayed on the screen. The navigation control includes a ring-shaped graphical entity and a knob graphical entity positioned at point on the ring-shaped graphical entity. A zooming user input can be received to the navigation control, and in response, zooming in the graphical space is provided. The zooming user input includes the user selecting the knob graphical entity and tracing a shape of the ring-shaped graphical entity with the knob graphical entity in either a first direction to zoom in or in a second direction to zoom out. |
| US08365073B2 |
Apparatus and method for displaying document
Provided are an apparatus and method for displaying a document, the document display apparatus including an image processor which displays a document including a plurality of pages; a memory unit which stores individual unit elements constituting the document and image data including the individual unit elements; and a controller which controls the image processor to generate the image data corresponding to at least one page estimated to be turned to among the plurality of pages, store the image data in the memory unit, and display the image data corresponding to a requested page among the stored image data when a user requests a page transition. With this, the page transition speed may be improved through image caching. |
| US08365070B2 |
Spelling correction system and method for misspelled input
A spelling correction system and method automatically recognizes and corrects misspelled inputs in an electronic device with relatively lower computing power. In a learning process, a misspelling correction dictionary is constructed on the basis of a corpus of accepted words, and context-sensitive strings are selected from among all the strings registered in the dictionary. Context information about the context-sensitive strings is acquired. In an applying process, at least one target string is selected from among all the strings in a user's input sentence through the dictionary. If the target string is one of the context-sensitive strings, the target string is corrected by use of the context information. |
| US08365068B2 |
System and user interface for workflow and task schedule configuration
In an embodiment of the present inventions, a work flow process may be generated by decomposing functions of a clinical information system into discrete tasks including an individual task associated with a first pre-configured executable procedure for implementing the individual task and associating a user selectable image element with the pre-configured first executable procedure used in implementing the individual task. In a currently envisioned embodiment, integratable work flow processes according to the present invention may be provided to a vertical application system. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims. |
| US08365066B2 |
Systems and methods for processing markup language specified spreadsheet styles
Methods to facilitate the processing of formatting information for cells in a spreadsheet document described in a markup language are presented. For spreadsheet documents that include a plurality of style objects, cell formatting information may be obtained from a master style object that stores master formatting information. In addition, named style information may be obtained from a style name object that stores named styles. Further, cell specific formatting information, which can override master formatting information, may be obtained from a cell-specific style object that includes cell specific formatting information. Combined cell formatting information for cells may be stored in a cell format object, wherein the combined cell formatting information can comprise named styles, cell-specific formatting information that overrides formatting information in the master style object, and master formatting information that has not been overridden by the cell-specific formatting information. |
| US08365063B2 |
Accessible list navigation
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, apparatus and computer program product for accessible list navigation. In one embodiment of the invention, a user interface article of manufacture configured for accessible list navigation can include markup defining a list including multiple list item, an obscured marker associated with at least one of the list items, and jump logic disposed in the obscured marker. Specifically, the jump logic can be programmed to navigate to a specified different one of the list items responsive to an activation of the obscured marker. Finally, alternate text can be disposed in the obscured marker which identifies the different one of the list items. As such, assistive technology can be programmed to read back the alternate text responsive to an activation of the obscured marker. |
| US08365057B2 |
Processing of data integrity field
A network communication device includes a host interface, which is coupled to communicate with a host processor, having a memory, so as to receive a work request to convey one or more data blocks over a network. The work request specifies a memory region of a given data size, and at least one data integrity field (DIF), having a given field size, is associated with the data blocks. Network interface circuitry is configured to execute an input/output (I/O) data transfer operation responsively to the work request so as to transfer to or from the memory a quantity of data that differs from the data size of the memory region by a multiple of the field size, while adding the at least one DIF to the transferred data or removing the at least one DIF from the transferred data. |
| US08365055B2 |
High performance cache directory error correction code
Defining a set of correctable error and uncorrectable error syndrome code points, generating an error correction code (ECC) syndrome decode, regarding the uncorrectable error syndrome code points as “don't cares” and logically minimizing the ECC syndrome decode for the determination of the correctable error syndrome code points based on the regarding of the uncorrectable error syndrome code points as the “don't cares” whereby output data can be ignored for the uncorrectable error syndrome code points. |
| US08365054B2 |
Soft reed-solomon decoder based on error-and-erasure reed-solomon decoder
An apparatus having a first circuit and a second circuit is disclosed. The first circuit may (i) generate a decoded codeword by decoding a first codeword a plurality of times based on a respective plurality of erasure location vectors and (ii) assert a fail signal upon each failure of the decoding of the first codeword, the decoding comprising an error-and-erasure Reed-Solomon decoding. The second circuit may (i) generate a count of the assertions of the fail signal and (ii) generate the erasure location vectors based on (a) the count and (b) a plurality of reliability items corresponding to the first codeword. |
| US08365052B2 |
Encoding device for error correction, encoding method for error correction and encoding program for error correction
The present invention aims at providing an encoding device for error correction, encoding method for error correction and encoding program for error correction wherein countermeasures against eavesdropping are taken into account. To achieve this, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention there is provided an encoding device for error correction, the device comprises a generation means for generating randomly a vector u=(xk+1, . . . , xm) composed of m-k digit(s); a creation means for creating an x′=[xu]=(x1, . . . , xm) by concatenating the vector u=(xk+1, . . . , xm) composed of m-k digit(s) randomly created by the creation means to data x=(x1, . . . , k) to send; and an output means for outputting a vector of length n by carrying out [n, m] encoding of the x′ created by the creation means. |
| US08365047B2 |
FEC code and code rate selection based on packet size
Techniques for encoding and decoding data are described. In an aspect, multiple code rates for a forward error correction (FEC) code may be supported, and a suitable code rate may be selected based on packet size. A transmitter may obtain at least one threshold to use for code rate selection, determine a packet size to use for data transmission, and select a code rate from among the multiple code rates based on the packet size and the at least one threshold. In another aspect, multiple FEC codes of different types (e.g., Turbo, LDPC, and convolutional codes) may be supported, and a suitable FEC code may be selected based on packet size. The transmitter may obtain at least one threshold to use for FEC code selection and may select an FEC code from among the multiple FEC codes based on the packet size and the at least one threshold. |
| US08365045B2 |
Flow based data packet processing
Flow based data packet processing is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for processing a data packet in a flow comprises identifying a flow Identification (ID) of the data packet, where the flow ID is based on one or more portions of control information for the data packet. The method also comprises accessing an address pointer stored in a shared memory designated for the flow ID. The method further comprises performing a set of instructions stored in an address in a cache memory which is assigned by the address pointer, wherein the set of instructions is loaded to the address in the cache memory upon identifying of the flow ID if the flow is currently active. Additionally, the method comprises generating report data associated with the flow by executing the set of instructions. |
| US08365038B2 |
Method of determining a coordinate value with respect to patterns printed on a document
A method is disclosed of determining a coordinate value with respect to patterns printed on a document. Each pattern represents a sequence, with each sequence consisting of a repeating codeword of a cyclic position code. The pattern is sensed, and from each sensed pattern a respective sub-sequence of symbols is obtained. Each of the sub-sequences is then mapped to a respective mapped codeword of the cyclic position code. An offset between each mapped codeword and the codeword is determined, and a difference is derived between pairs of offsets. The coordinate value is derived by interpreting one of the differences as a marker separating the coordinate value from an adjacent coordinate value, and the remaining differences as digits of the coordinate value. |
| US08365036B2 |
Soft error correction in a memory array and method thereof
A memory system includes a memory array. The memory array includes a plurality of storage locations arranged in rows and columns. The memory system includes error correction circuitry that generates correct data bits from data bits of the memory array and error correction bits. The data bits received by the error correction circuitry are divided in subgroups where each subgroup of data bits is used to generate a subgroup of the correct data bits. The subgroups of data bits are stored in a row of the memory array at locations that are interleaved with each other. |
| US08365034B2 |
Forward error correction (FEC) encoding and decoding method of variable length packet based on three-dimensional storage apparatus
Provided is a Forward Error Correction (FEC) encoding method of a variable-length packet using a three-dimensional (3D) storage apparatus. In the FEC encoding method, an FEC coding may be performed to calculate a corresponding parity packet while an input data packet is imaginarily connected to the 3D storage apparatus having a predetermined storage width and data area height to be arranged, the calculated parity packet may be stored and arranged in a vertical direction and a depth direction of the 3D storage apparatus, and an expansion data packet including both information for restoration of a data packet and the data packet may be transmitted together with the parity packet. |
| US08365031B2 |
Soft error correction method, memory control apparatus and memory system
A soft error correction method is for a memory system having memory access controllers accessing memories for storing byte-sliced data in cycle synchronism, and a system controller receiving a memory access from an arbitrary one of MPUs and issuing a memory address to the memory access controllers. When a correctable error is detected in data read from one memory, an error address where the error was detected is held within a memory access controller, and an error notification is made to the system controller from the memory access controller. In response to the error notification, the memory access controller holds the error address from the system controller without intervention from the MPUs, and reads, corrects and rewrites the data to the error address. |
| US08365030B1 |
Nonvolatile memory devices and error correction methods thereof
A method for correcting read data error of a nonvolatile memory device, the error correction method including performing a first read operation of applying a first non-selection read voltage to a plurality of unselected memory cells to read a plurality of selected memory cells, performing a second read operation of applying a second non-selection read voltage less than the first non-selection read voltage to the unselected memory cells to read the selected memory cells, and comparing data sensed in the first and second read operations to detect error locations of read data. |
| US08365029B2 |
Digital circuits and methods for testing a digital circuit
Digital circuits and methods for testing a digital circuit are disclosed. One embodiment provides a digital circuit having a first plurality of storage elements, and a second plurality of storage elements. The digital circuit is operable in a first operation mode and in a second operation mode. In the first operation mode, the storage elements of the first plurality of storage elements operate according to their intended use within the digital circuit and the storage elements of the second plurality of storage elements are connected in series. In the second operation mode, the first plurality of storage elements is connected to the second plurality of storage elements to allow data exchange between the first plurality of storage elements and the second plurality of storage elements. |
| US08365027B2 |
Processor and method for controlling storage-device test unit
A processor includes an arithmetic device, a storage device that holds arithmetic data, a data generator that generates test data, an address generator that generates an address at which the test data is to be written, a test data number counter that counts a number of test data, an error information holder that holds mismatch error information, an error occurrence bit position holder that holds a position of a bit at which a mismatch error has occurred, an error occurrence test data number holder that holds number of test data counted by the test data number counter, and a comparator that compares test data written to the storage device with test data read from the storage device and stores error information in the error information holder and a position of a bit and number of the test data in which the mismatch error has occurred. |
| US08365025B2 |
Flash memory
A flash memory includes a memory sector, a command interface, a first signal buffer, a control signal generation circuit, a data input buffer, an error correction circuit, an address buffer, an address signal generation circuit, a plurality of data memory circuits, and write circuit. The command interface receives a write data input instruction from an external device to generate a write data input instruction signal, and receives a write instruction from the external device to generate a write instruction signal. The error correction circuit is activated by the write data input instruction signal to receive the write data in synchronization with the write enable signal, and is activated by the write instruction signal to generate a check data for an error correction in synchronization with the control signal. |
| US08365014B2 |
Fast resource recovery after thread crash
A resource recovery system may maintain a counter in memory that indicates a number of times one or more threads of execution, which use shared resources, have crashed. The system may associate a first value of the counter with a resource allocated to a thread of the one or more threads, and may set an indicator associated with the thread to indicate whether the thread has crashed. The system may determine whether to re-allocate the resource to the thread based on the first value of the counter associated with the resource and based on the indicator associated with the thread. |
| US08365007B2 |
System for controlling the state of a switched digital video system and method therefor
A system and method for dynamically configuring a switched digital video (SDV) system. An SDV server is configured to generate logs, including logs of program information, stream information and client information. A listener is configured to monitor the logs generated by the SDV server, generate state data indicative of a desired state of the SDV system, and generate state data indicative of an actual state of the SDV system. The listener compares the desired state data to the actual state data and determines whether the actual state data in view of the desired state data are indicative of an aberrant state of the SDV system. When the actual state data are indicative of an aberrant state of the SDV system, the listener determines a remedial action to change the operation of the SDV system and configures the SDV server to implement the remedial action. |
| US08365006B2 |
Preventing circumvention of function disablement in an information handling system
For disabling a first function in an information handling system, a dynamic signal is disabled. The first function is inoperable in response to the dynamic signal being disabled. At least a second function in the information handling system is operable irrespective of whether the dynamic signal is disabled. |
| US08365005B2 |
Method and system for registering events in wind turbines of a wind power system
Methods of registering events in a wind power system comprising at least two data processors. The data processors of said wind power system are mutually time synchronized. Events are registered in said at least two data processors. The timing of said events registered in different of said at least two data processors is established according to said time synchronization. Events may be registered and preferably analyzed according to a common timing. The event analysis makes it possible to establish an analysis where events of different wind turbines are basically interrelated and where information regarding such interrelation may be important or crucial for establishment of control or fault detection based on correctly timed events from different wind turbines. |
| US08365004B2 |
Configuring of intelligent electronic device
The present disclosure provides a method, apparatus and configuration arrangement for configuring an intelligent electronic device, in which a group of function blocks defining at least a part of a configuration of an intelligent electronic device is provided, connection lines between the function blocks are defined, a fixed function block having a fixed cycle time value is located in the group of function blocks, and setting a configuration setting for a function block that is connected to the fixed function block. |
| US08365003B2 |
Synchronizing time domain signals in computing system using phase frequency slope value of cross power spectral density
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that accurately synchronizes signals related to the operation of a computer system. During operation, the system receives a first time-domain signal associated with a first system variable and a second time-domain signal associated with a second system variable from the computer system. The system then transforms the first and the second time-domain signals into a first frequency-domain signal and a second frequency-domain signal, respectively. Next, the system computes a cross-power-spectral-density (CPSD) between the first and second frequency-domain signals to obtain a phase angle versus frequency graph between the two frequency-domain signals. The system subsequently extracts the slope of the phase angle versus frequency graph, and uses the value of the slope to synchronize the first time-domain signal and the second time-domain signal. |
| US08364998B2 |
Adaptive real-time methodology for optimizing energy-efficient computing
Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) is an effective way to reduce energy and power consumption in microprocessor units. Current implementations of DVFS suffer from inaccurate modeling of power requirements and usage, and from inaccurate characterization of the relationships between the applicable variables. A system and method is proposed that adjusts CPU frequency and voltage based on run-time calculations of the workload processing time, as well as a calculation of performance sensitivity with respect to CPU frequency. The system and method are processor independent, and can be applied to either an entire system as a unit, or individually to each process running on a system. |
| US08364995B2 |
Selective power reduction of memory hardware
Managing delivery of power to one or more hardware memory devices in a computer system. The computer system is configured with a processor and at least two hardware memory devices. A temperature monitor tool is employed to monitor the hardware memory devices. Management of an addressable subset of the hardware memory devices is employed in response to the monitored temperature reading. |
| US08364992B2 |
Method and system for reducing power consumption by command selection in a hard disk drive
A system and method for providing a command queue selection scheme by selecting commands by giving preference to commands based on the power consumption characteristics the command. In one embodiment the selection scheme involves calculating the value of the cost of energy saving associated with the access of a command by an evaluation function Costi=EAT+C×F1 (seek distance, latency). C is a dynamically adjustable power control function that determines how much power decreases with the selection of a particular command and F1 is a functional calculation of the power consumption value associated with the particular command. In one embodiment commands with low power consumption will be accessed in preference to commands with shorter seek distance. |
| US08364988B2 |
Substrate bias switching unit for a low power processor
The feature of the present invention consists in: a processor main circuit for executing program instruction strings on a processor chip; a substrate bias switching unit for switching voltages of substrate biases applied to a substrate of the processor main circuit; and an operation mode control unit for controlling, in response to the execution of an instruction to proceed to a stand-by mode in the processor main circuit, the substrate bias switching unit in such a way that the biases are switched over to voltages for the stand-by mode, and for controlling, in response to an interruption of the stand-by release from the outside, the substrate bias switching unit in such a way that the biases are switched over to voltages for a normal mode, and also for releasing, after the bias voltages switched thereto have been stabilized, the stand-by of the processor main circuit to restart the operation. |
| US08364987B2 |
Method and apparatus for implementing a sleep proxy for services on a network
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for implementing a sleep proxy. The system starts by receiving a request at the sleep proxy for information pertaining to a service provided by a device. In response to this request, the system determines if the device is a member of a list of devices for which the sleep proxy takes action. If so, the system determines if the sleep proxy can answer the request. If so, the sleep proxy sends a response to the request on behalf of the device. In a variation on this embodiment, if the system cannot answer the request on behalf of the device, the system sends a wakeup packet to the device, wherein the wakeup packet causes the device to exit a power-saving mode so that the device can respond to the request directly. |
| US08364978B2 |
System for and method of auto-registration with cryptographic modules
A system for and method of registering devices an applications with cryptographic modules is presented. The system and method prevent devices and applications from operating in conjunction with cryptographic modules unless such devices and applications have previously been registered with the module. |
| US08364974B2 |
Pre-boot firmware based virus scanner
The present disclosure relates to allowing the utilization of a virus scanner and cleaner that operates primarily in the pre-boot phase of computer operation and, more particularly, to allowing the utilization of a virus scanner and cleaner that operates primarily during the loading of an operating system. |
| US08364972B1 |
Method of key generation using biometric features
A system and method for generating an encryption key using physical characteristics of a biometric sample is described. In one embodiment, the biometric feature(s) from a sample are analyzed to generate a feature vector. After discretizing the feature(s), the resultant feature vector is translated into a bit vector. The bit vector is the secure biometric key that results from the biometric(s). The secure biometric key is used to generate at least one cryptographic key. A similar process is used to access the cryptographic key secured by the secure biometric key. If the access biometric key matches the secure biometric key, the cryptographic key is revealed and access is allowed. In another embodiment, if the access biometric key does not match the secure biometric key a camouflaging process is used to provide an unauthorized user a bogus secure biometric key indistinguishable from the correct secure biometric key. |
| US08364971B2 |
User authentication system and method
A high security computer system and method that authenticates a user using iris recognition and liveliness detection. The method for authenticating the user to the secure system includes capturing an image of the user's face and generating an iris template from the image. While the iris template is being generated, liveliness verification is performed on the user's face. User access is granted if the iris template matches the enrolled iris template and if the liveness verification demonstrates the user's face is live, and denied if otherwise. The method may optionally silently re-authenticate the user after access is granted to the secure system. The authentication system includes an image capture device for capturing an image, an iris template generation component to generate an iris template from the image, a liveness detection component, and an iris comparison component adapted to compare the iris template to iris templates of previously enrolled users. |
| US08364965B2 |
Optimized integrity verification procedures
Some embodiments of the invention provide a method of verifying the integrity of digital content. At a source of the digital content, the method generates a signature for the digital content by applying a hashing function to a particular portion of the digital content, where the particular portion is less than the entire digital content. The method supplies the signature and the digital content to a device. At the device, the method applies the hashing function to the particular portion of the digital content in order to verify the supplied signature, and thereby verifies the integrity of the supplied digital content. |
| US08364960B2 |
Method for preventing the use of a cloned user unit communicating with a server
A method to fight against cloning attacks is disclosed. In an initialization phase, the user unit sends to the server a request comprising a unique identifier of the user unit, check data, an initial payload key and a request instruction encrypted with a payload key retrieved from a memory of the user unit. Each time the server receives a request; the request instruction is decrypted by a payload key retrieved from a memory according to the unique identifier of the user unit. The server then generates a derivation key to be used by the user unit to compute a new payload key and checks in the next incoming request from the same user unit if the payload key is an expected one. The server detects cloning attacks thanks to a status parameter at decryption of the request instruction with the expected payload key. |
| US08364959B2 |
Systems and methods for using a domain-specific security sandbox to facilitate secure transactions
Computer systems, methods, and computer readable media for facilitating a secure transaction are provided in which a client application is executed on a client computer. The client application initiates a request to a first domain comprising (i) a credential for the client application, (ii) a transaction identifier that uniquely identifies the request, and (iii) optionally, an identification of a user of the client application. Responsive to this request, the client receives a validated transaction module from the first domain. The client application loads the validated transaction module into a separate domain security sandbox that is segregated from memory space in which the client application is run. The validated transaction module conducts a validated transaction between the second domain and the validated transaction module. Separately, through the client application, a determination is made as to whether the transaction is complete by querying the first domain. |
| US08364956B2 |
Security management server and image data managing method thereof
A security management server includes an input unit for receiving image data from at least one network camera; a control unit for assigning an access authority level to each image data received via the input unit; and a storage unit for storing therein the image data along with the access authority levels assigned by the control unit. When receiving a request for a specific image data among the image data stored in the storage unit from a user having a user access authority level, the control unit compares the user access authority level and the access authority level assigned to the specific image data, and based on comparison result thereof, selectively provides the specific image data to the user. |
| US08364949B1 |
Authentication for TCP-based routing and management protocols
A new Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) Enhanced Authentication Option is described. An administrator configures sending and receiving devices to maintain lists of authentication elements for each protected TCP connection. Each authentication element includes an authentication element identifier, a key, a hash algorithm, and a start time. A sending device calculates a security portion, updates the new TCP option to include the security portion, calculates a checksum, and forwards the TCP segment to the receiving device. Having received the authenticated TCP segment, the receiving device scans its list of authentication elements, searching for an authentication element whose identifier matches that of the incoming TCP option. If the receiving device finds such an authentication element, the receiving device uses a key from the authentication element to calculate a security portion. If the calculated security portion matches the security portion received in the incoming TCP segment, the receiving device accepts the segment. |
| US08364945B2 |
Provisioning an unknown computer system
A method of provisioning an unknown computer system is disclosed. The method includes detecting a computer system to be provisioned, determining that the computer system is unknown to a configuration management system, and identifying a global identifier and a digital certificate to be used to provision the computer system. The method further includes communicating the global identifier and the digital certificate from a network based boot strap server or from boot strap media to the computer system prior to loading an operating system onto the computer system. |
| US08364941B2 |
Switching drivers between processors
Systems, methods, and computer software for operating a device can be used to operate the device in multiple modes. The device can be operated in a first operating mode adapted for processing data, in which a first processor executes a driver for a nonvolatile memory and a second processor performs processing of data stored in files on the nonvolatile memory. An instruction can be received to switch the device to a second operating mode adapted for reading and/or writing files from or to the nonvolatile memory. The driver for the nonvolatile memory can be switched from the first processor to the second processor in response to the instruction, and the driver for the nonvolatile memory can be executed on the second processor after performing the switch. A communications driver can be executed on the first processor in response to the instruction to switch the device to the second operating mode. |
| US08364940B2 |
Automatically starting servers at low temperatures
This document describes various techniques for automatically starting servers at low temperatures. A server may be powered on into a heating mode responsive to determining that a temperature of the server is below an operational temperature range. The server may then be restarted when the temperature of the server has increased to a temperature that is within the operational temperature range. |
| US08364938B2 |
Running-AND, running-OR, running-XOR, and running-multiply instructions for processing vectors using a base value from a key element of an input vector
In the described embodiments, a processor captures a value from an element at a key element position in a second input vector into a base value. The processor then generates a result vector by, if the predicate vector is received, for each element in the result vector to the right of the key element position for which a corresponding element in the predicate vector is active, otherwise, for each element in the result vector to the right of the key element position, setting the element in the result vector equal to a result from an associative Boolean operation or a multiplication operation for which the inputs are the base value and a value in each relevant element of a first input vector from an element at the key element position to and including a predetermined element in the first input vector. |
| US08364936B2 |
Processor employing split scheduler in which near, low latency operation dependencies are tracked separate from other operation dependencies
In an embodiment, a scheduler implements a first dependency array that tracks dependencies on instruction operations (ops) within a distance N of a given op and which are short execution latency ops. Other dependencies are tracked in a second dependency array. The first dependency array may evaluate quickly, to support back-to-back issuance of short execution latency ops and their dependent ops. The second array may evaluate more slowly than the first dependency array. |
| US08364931B2 |
Memory system and mapping methods using a random write page mapping table
Memory systems and mapping methods thereof are provided. In one embodiment of a memory system, an interface device is coupled between a flash memory and a host and stores a flash translation layer. The flash translation layer utilizes a data block mapping table and a page mapping table to manage data blocks and log blocks of the flash memory by a page mapping scheme and utilizes a random write page mapping table independent from the block mapping table and the page mapping table to manage the random write blocks by a random write mapping scheme. When a first predetermined condition is satisfied, the flash translation layer converts one of the data blocks (and one of the log block corresponding to the converted data block if any) into random write block(s) and utilizes the random write mapping schemes to manage the random write block(s). When a second predetermined condition is satisfied, the flash translation layer merges and converts random write block(s) into a data block and utilizes the page mapping scheme to manage the converted random write block(s). |
| US08364930B2 |
Information processing apparatus and storage drive adapted to perform fault analysis by maintenance of tracing information
According to one embodiment, an information processing apparatus includes an information processing apparatus main body and a storage drive which is accommodated in the information processing apparatus body. The information processing apparatus main body includes a main control module which controls power activation of the storage drive based on a power activation operation by a power operation section. The storage drive includes a storage memory including a plurality of storage areas to and from which information can be written and read, a counter in which a count is incremented upon power activation, and a memory control module which stores a content of an access request in a storage area of the storage memory determined based on the count of the counter when the access request to the storage memory is made. |
| US08364929B2 |
Enabling spanning for a storage device
A storage device, e.g., an SSD, is configured to enable spanning for a logical block between pages of the device. In one example, a device includes a data storage module to receive data to be stored, wherein the data comprises a plurality of logical blocks, and wherein a size of the plurality of logical blocks exceeds a size of a first page of the device, and a spanning determination module to determine whether to partition one of the plurality of logical blocks into a first partition and a second partition, wherein the data storage module is configured to partition the one of the plurality of logical blocks into the first partition and the second partition and to store the first partition in the first page and the second partition in a second, different page when the spanning determination module determines to partition the one of the plurality of logical blocks. |
| US08364926B2 |
Memory module with reduced access granularity
A memory module having reduced access granularity. The memory module includes a substrate having signal lines thereon that form a control path and first and second data paths, and further includes first and second memory devices coupled in common to the control path and coupled respectively to the first and second data paths. The first and second memory devices include control circuitry to receive respective first and second memory access commands via the control path and to effect concurrent data transfer on the first and second data paths in response to the first and second memory access commands. |
| US08364925B2 |
Storage system and storage system data migration method
This storage system modifies the migration plan in accordance with the state of the migration destination when a plurality of volumes are migrated all at once. Migration-source volumes are migrated collectively to volumes inside the migration-destination storage apparatus. The user can make settings related to migration-source volumes and migration-destination volumes in a migration plan, and can establish a mid-process control plan for modifying the migration plan in the middle of processing. If a failure occurs in the migration-destination storage apparatus subsequent to the commencement of data migration processing, a processing method controller either cancels or temporarily halts the data migration processing, or changes the migration destination, on the basis of the mid-process control plan. When changing the migration destination, a previously selected alternate storage apparatus is selected as the new migration-destination storage apparatus. When a failure occurs in the alternate storage apparatus, yet another alternate storage apparatus is selected. |
| US08364924B2 |
Achieving a high throughput in a storage cache application using a flash solid state disk
According to one embodiment, a method for using flash memory in a storage cache comprises receiving data to be cached in flash memory of a storage cache, at least some of the received data being received from at least one of a host system and a storage medium, selecting a block of the flash memory for receiving the data, buffering the received data until sufficient data has been received to fill the block, and overwriting existing data in the selected block with the buffered data. According to another embodiment, a method comprises receiving data, at least some of the data being from a host system and/or a storage medium, and sequentially overwriting sequential blocks of the flash memory with the received data. Other devices and methods for working with flash memory in a storage cache according to various embodiments are included and described herein. |
| US08364923B2 |
Data storage system manager and method for managing a data storage system
A data storage system manager includes one or more servers, at least one data collector deployed on at least one of the servers, at least one policy engine deployed on at least one of the servers, and at least one configuration manager deployed on at least one the servers. The at least one data collector is configured to collect resource utilization information including data storage wear rate of data storage system data storage modules. The at least one policy engine is configured to evaluate the collected information and to initiate changes to a configuration of the data storage system based on data storage wear rate and work load distribution policies. The at least one configuration manager is configured to implement the changes initiated by the at least one policy engine to control the data storage wear rate and a skew of the work load distribution within the data storage system. |
| US08364922B2 |
Aggregate symmetric multiprocessor system
An aggregate symmetric multiprocessor (SMP) data processing system includes a first SMP computer including at least first and second processing units and a first system memory pool and a second SMP computer including at least third and fourth processing units and second and third system memory pools. The second system memory pool is a restricted access memory pool inaccessible to the fourth processing unit and accessible to at least the second and third processing units, and the third system memory pool is accessible to both the third and fourth processing units. An interconnect couples the second processing unit in the first SMP computer for load-store coherent, ordered access to the second system memory pool in the second SMP computer, such that the second processing unit in the first SMP computer and the second system memory pool in the second SMP computer form a synthetic third SMP computer. |
| US08364921B2 |
Methods, systems, and products for recording media
Methods, devices, and products are disclosed for recording media. An input is received via a user interface to record media. An entry is created in a recording schedule to record the media. The recording schedule is sent to a restoration server, such that the recording schedule is mirrored to the restoration server. |
| US08364920B1 |
System and method for transferring and backing up luns and lun clones on primary and secondary servers
Lun clones are transferred from a primary server to a secondary server. The lun clones on the secondary server maintain the same data storage space saving relationship with backing luns of the lun clones as exists on the primary server. Incremental backups and restores of the lun clones between the primary and secondary servers involves transferring less than the total number of data blocks associated with the lun clone. |
| US08364918B1 |
Sensed opportunistic garbage collection in memory components
A method and system for performing sensed garbage collection in a memory is disclosed. Aspects of the exemplary embodiment include measuring arrival times of read/write commands received from the processor executing an application; determining a periodicity of the read/write commands based on the arrival times; locking onto a phase of the periodicity using the read/write commands to determine predicted arrival times of future read/write commands; creating a real-time schedule of memory requests using the arrival times of the read/write commands and the predicted arrival times of the future read/write commands; using the real-time schedule to sense idle periods where the application will not make a request of the memory, and performing garbage collection during the at least one idle period. |
| US08364917B2 |
Replication of deduplicated storage system
A method for replicating a deduplicated storage system is disclosed. A stream of data is stored on an originator deduplicating system by storing a plurality of deduplicated segments and information on how to reconstruct the stream of data. The originator deduplicating system is replicated on a replica system by sending a copy of the plurality of deduplicated segments and information on how to reconstruct the stream of data to the replica system. A first portion of the deduplicated segments stored on the originator deduplicating system that is corrupted is identified. A copy of the first portion of the deduplicated segments is requested to be sent by the replica system to the originator deduplicating system. |