| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08376632B2 |
Strain-relief member and fiber optic drop cable assembly using same
A strain-relief member having a body formed from a block copolymer and designed for use in a fiber optic drop cable assembly. The body has a central channel and a cylindrical connector-end portion sized to surround an end-portion of a connector. The body also has a tapered cable-end portion sized to surround an end portion of a fiber optic cable that connects to the connector and that has a preferential bend axis. The strain-relief member is configured to limit an amount of strain in the strength components to less than 0.041 when subjected to flex and proof testing. A fiber optic drop cable assembly that has a fiber optic cable with a preferential bend axis and that employs the strain-relief member is also disclosed. |
| US08376626B2 |
Pivot assembly bearing
A pivot assembly bearing having a bearing inner ring, a shaft, a bearing outer ring, a housing, and an UV curable anaerobic adhesive fixing the bearing inner ring to the shaft, and the bearing outer ring to the housing, wherein the adhesive includes 15 to 25% of urethane acrylate, 45 to 55% of acrylic acid diester, less than 3% of acrylic acid monomer, 15 to 30% of hydroxyalkylmethacrylate, less than 3% of anaerobic catalyst, and less than 3% of photopolymerization initiating agent, and in addition, a coloring agent, if necessary. The pivot assembly bearing reduces outgas, shortens adhesive curing time, and no tack at the adhesive surface is obtained. |
| US08376625B2 |
Rolling bearing unit for wheel support
A wheel supporting roller bearing in which a pitch circle diameter of an outboard row is larger than a pitch circle diameter of an inboard row. Thermally-hardened layers are formed, at two locations along an axial direction, in portions of an inner circumferential surface of an outer ring including outer ring raceways. The thermally-hardened layers are separated from each other by an unhardened portion in an axially middle portion of the outer ring. A non-cylindrical curved portion having an arcuate generatrix is provided on the axially middle portion of the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring between the outer ring raceways. A thickness of the thermally-hardened layer in the portion including the outer ring raceway on an axially outer side is larger than a thickness of the thermally-hardened layer in the portion including the outer ring raceway on the axially inner side. |
| US08376623B2 |
Bearing lubricating structure for rotating shaft
A bearing lubricating structure for a rotating shaft includes: a pair of bearings that are disposed spaced-apart in an axial direction within a support case, for rotatably supporting the predetermined rotating shaft around an axis thereof; and an oil supply port that is disposed on the support case, for supplying lubricating oil for lubricating the pair of bearings to between the pair of bearings, between the pair of bearings and between the oil supply port and the rotating shaft, a separator being disposed in the axial direction, for receiving the lubricating oil supplied from the oil supply port to prevent the lubricating oil from directly adhering to the rotating shaft, the separator being integrally fixed to the support case, and the separator having at its axially opposite ends thereof a pair of sidewalls confronting the pair of bearings and projecting from the opposite ends toward an inner circumferential surface of the support case to be in intimate contact with the inner circumferential surface, and the pair of sidewalls each including a communication hole that permits the lubricating oil supplied from the oil supply port to flow toward the pair of bearings at a predetermined flow rate. |
| US08376619B2 |
Grease for slide bearing
Grease for a slide bearing, which can suppress unusual noise attributable to a slip caused between a shaft and a bearing when a machine is stopped. In slide bearing grease 24 supplied to between a slide bearing 16 formed of a porous sintered alloy-made bushing having pores 30 impregnated with lubricating oil 31 and a shaft 22 inserted in the slide bearing 16 and supported to be slidingly rotatable in the circumferential direction, the slide bearing grease 24 employs base oil having dynamic viscosity of 10-70 mm2/s at 40° C. and exuding under a load of the shaft 22 to form an oil film 35 between the slide bearing 16 and the shaft 22. |
| US08376617B2 |
Snap-in bearing insert
An improved sliding bearing apparatus and method utilize a snap-in polymer bearing insert having one or more identically shaped locking lugs, each of which are configured for locking engagement with a corresponding depression in a bearing housing, to thereby lock the bearing insert in place against relative movement either radially or axially with respect to the bearing housing. In a free-standing state, the insert may have a variety of shapes including cylindrical, non-cylindrical, or be flat and planar. An insert for a closed bearing is configured such that it may be trimmed to form an insert for an open bearing. |
| US08376610B2 |
Automated self calibration in optical detectors
A method and apparatus for automated field calibration of temperature sensors uses a series of readings including a reading of a known source, such as an LED, for use in calculating a factor that is compared to a reference for adjusting the sensor output signal. Calibration readings are taken more frequently after start up to compensate for sensor drift during storage, as opposed to less frequent readings during operation to compensate for slower sensor drift while operational. |
| US08376609B2 |
Disposable agitator for mixed food products
The disposable agitator for mixed food products has an elongated stem, which has, at a longitudinal end, an agitator blade having the shape of a spoon, and can be removably fixed to the rotary shaft of a mixer, so that the consumer can subsequently use the agitator as a utensil for eating the product previously mixed; the agitator has at least one longitudinal rib, projecting transversally from the stem and/or from the agitator blade and at the same time acting as an agitator stiffening element and an active element in the mixing action. |
| US08376607B2 |
Method for the continuous implementation of polymerisation processes
A process for continuously performing polymerization processes, wherein monomer(s), catalysts, and initiators are added continuously to a backmixed mixing kneader (1-1.3) with a length/diameter ratio of 0.5-3.5 and backmixed therein with already reacted product, and the reacted product is simultaneously drawn off continuously from the mixing kneader (1-1.3). |
| US08376601B2 |
Backlight unit and display unit
A backlight unit (3) provided with a LED package (light source) (11) and a light guide plate (14) includes a light-emitting portion (12) that is provided on the light guide plate side of the LED package (11) so as to be opposed to an incident surface (14a) of the light guide plate (14) and outputs light from the LED package (11) toward the light guide plate (14). A dimension on the incident surface side of the light-emitting portion (12) in a thickness direction of the light guide plate (14) is not more than a dimension at the incident surface (14a) of the light guide plate (14) in its thickness direction, and the light-emitting portion (12) uses a two-dimensional photonic crystal (12a). |
| US08376599B2 |
Light module for an illumination device
The present invention relates to a light module (10) for an illumination device, in particular for a headlight (1), of a motor vehicle. The light module (10) comprises at least one light source (18) for emitting light beams, at least one primary optical unit (20) for concentrating the emitted light beams, a diaphragm arrangement (22) in the beam path of the concentrated light beams, and at least one secondary optical unit (30) for imaging the light beams that have traveled past the diaphragm arrangement (22) onto a roadway in front of the motor vehicle in order to generate a desired light distribution. There is formed in the diaphragm arrangement (22) at least one opening (26) and/or cutout to which is assigned an optically active element (28), which deflects or attenuates at least a portion of the light beams passing through the opening (26) and/or cutout. |
| US08376598B2 |
Light source unit and vehicular lamp
The disclosed subject matter provides a reflecting cover above and between a light-emitting chip and a projection lens. The diffused light from the light-emitting chip is led toward the projection lens via the reflecting cover such that it transmits through the projection lens at a certain angle. This makes it possible to increase the amount of controllable light, and to improve the amount of light beams radiated from the lamp, thereby realizing a brighter lamp and an improved light distribution shape. |
| US08376597B2 |
Vehicular lamp
A vehicular lamp includes a lamp outer case formed by a cover and a lamp housing; a light source disposed inside the lamp outer case; and a light guide that guides light emitted from the light source, wherein the light guide is shaped as a column. The light guide includes a first extension portion that extends on a horizontal plane side, and a second extension portion that extends on a vertical plane side with respect to a reference line that extends in a direction inclined 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. An outer surface of the light guide includes an incident surface to which light emitted from the light source is incident, an internal reflection surface that internally reflects light incident from the incident surface, and a radiation surface that is formed as an outward-convexly curved surface and radiates at least light reflected by the internal reflection surface. ρ1 is a curvature of the radiation surface in a cross section perpendicular to a direction in which the first extension portion extends, ρ2 is a curvature of the radiation surface in a cross section perpendicular to a direction in which the second extension portion extends, and ρ1 is smaller than ρ2. |
| US08376594B2 |
Recessed lighting fixture with socket adjustment mechanism
A recessed luminaire with adjustable socket assembly comprises a housing having a sidewall, a top wall and a lower opening allowing light output, a socket adjustment assembly disposed in the housing, the socket adjustment assembly having: a lamp socket connected to a socket carriage, a track having a socket carriage movably positioned on the track, wherein the carriage moves along the track and the lamp socket is movable in at least one of a vertical or a horizontal direction. |
| US08376592B2 |
Recessed-light conversion apparatus, system, and methods
Exposed fixture means and associated mounting features constituting a broad range of structural, aesthetic, and/or functional enhancements to existing recessed fixtures. Embodiments are generally configured to couple at a structural surface at and/or surrounding a recessed fixture. A mounting ring provides secure attachment at the structural surface, a ring cover typically engages with the mounting ring in a twist-lock engagement. An exposed fixture means (EFM) may be coupled at a side of the ring cover opposite the mounting ring. A system of correspondingly configured latch members of each of the ring cover and mounting ring enables relatively universal coupling of different EFMs at an already installed mounting ring. EFMs include a wide variety of aesthetic, functional, and/or structural embodiments. |
| US08376591B2 |
Lens slide for an automated luminaire
The described systems 200 provides a simplified slide system for longitudinal movement of optical light modulators 102 for automated luminaires 12 employing expansion and contractions slots 125, 126 which allow for precise smooth movement over a range of temperatures. |
| US08376589B2 |
Layered dimmer system
A layered dimmer formed of different layers. The front layer may be a scattering layer, and the back layer may be a reflective layer. The light beam is scattered prior to reflecting, to avoid reflection back to form hotspots. |
| US08376584B1 |
Lighting system for decorating trees
A light system for decorating a tree featuring a flexible elongated band moveable between an attached position wherein the band is folded onto itself and an unattached position; an attachment means for securing the band in the attached position; a plurality of lights radiating outwardly from an outer surface of the band, the light strands each comprise a cord portion and a plurality of lights disposed along the cord portion; a first power plug and a second power plug, both power plugs being disposed on the band, wherein the first power plug functions to engage an electrical outlet or a second power plug of a second light system and the second power plug functions to accept a first power plug of a third light system; and a wire disposed in the band, the wire operatively connects each light strand to the first power plug and to the second power plug. |
| US08376580B2 |
Light emitting diode (LED) based lighting systems
A lighting system comprises at least one excitation source (5), preferably an LED, operable to generate and radiate excitation radiation of a first wavelength (λ1); a shade (4) configured to at least in part surround the at least one source (5) and remotely located thereto; and at least one phosphor (16) provided in or on at least a part of the shade (4), wherein the phosphor (16) emits radiation of a different wavelength in response to incident excitation radiation. The phosphor can be provided on a part of an outer or inner surface of the shade. Alternatively, or in addition, the phosphor is incorporated within the shade. The lighting system finds particular application as a hanging, a desk, a floor standing, a wall mountable, a spot, an outdoor or an accent lighting fixture. |
| US08376579B2 |
LED lamp
An LED lamp includes a base, an encapsulation, a substrate and a light distribution board. A number of light emitting diodes are mounted on the substrate. The encapsulation, the substrate and the light distribution board are all fixed to the base. Opposite sides of the light distribution board respectively face the encapsulation and the substrate. The light distribution board includes a number of protrusions. The protrusions totally reflect the incident light beams from the light emitting diodes perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to the light distribution board. |
| US08376578B2 |
Lighting device
A lighting device including a reflector including a reflecting surface, and a light source unit disposed under the reflector and configured to emit light towards the reflector. Further, the light source unit includes a main body disposed longitudinally along the reflector and having first and second outside surfaces that are inclined towards the reflecting surface, and a plurality of first light emitting diodes disposed on the first outside surface and a plurality of second light emitting diodes disposed on the second outside surface and configured to emit the light towards the reflector. |
| US08376576B2 |
Perimeter lighting
An elongated perimeter light comprising an array of light sources that are illuminated by electric power. An elongated tube is included having a lumen along its length, with the tube being substantially solid except for the lumen. A blocking element covers a lower portion of the tube along its length, with the blocking element blocking light emission from the lower portion. The array of light sources is arranged within the lumen and transmits light through the tube and from an upper surface of the tube. The tube disperses the light from the array giving the appearance that the array of light sources is a continuous light source. The array of light sources is cuttable at intervals to shorten the array while allowing the remaining light sources in the resulting cut pieces to emit light. The tube and blocking element are cuttable to match the length of the array. |
| US08376571B2 |
Emergency switch for a flashlight
Improvements in an emergency switch for an end cap flashlight that allows conducting power to the light source by applying side or rotational force on the end caps of the flashlight. The cap is designed to give faster and more convenient access to light in an emergency, or when needed. The end cap connects to the inner conductor with a castled shape that allows the conductors to be moved in or out alignment to allow or prevent contact. The gasket or washer provides insulation and spacing of the conductors. Side forces on the end cap overcome the spacing of the washer to make electrical contact. The end cap may also support a glass breaking device. The glass breaker is a hardened tip on the end of the cap. |
| US08376570B2 |
Coordinated feedback rotational switching mechanism and modular illumination system
A portable illumination system comprising distal and proximal members rotatably coupled to one another. The rotatable coupling between the members includes resistive rotational feedback across a plurality of independent rotational regions between the members. A rotational switching mechanism is configured to switch between an activated state and a deactivated state. The activated state includes an electrical coupling between an electrical power source and an electro-optical output device across a plurality of independent rotational regions between the members. The plurality of independent rotational regions of the activated state corresponds to a linear or lengthwise alignment between the distal activated indicator and the activated proximal indicator. The plurality of independent rotational regions of the resistive rotational feedback may be coordinated with the plurality of independent rotational regions of the activated state. A second alternative embodiment of the portable illumination system includes a rotational switching mechanism with an electrical switching system and an operationally independent resistance system. |
| US08376568B2 |
Rechargeable flashlight electrically charged by a cigar jack
A rechargeable flashlight electrically charged by a cigar jack includes a body unit and a head unit. The body unit includes a charging terminal connected to an external power of a car by a cigar jack, a rechargeable battery connected to the charging terminal and charged by the cigar jack, and a contact pin connected to the charging terminal and an electrode of the rechargeable battery. The head unit includes a circuit board having a circuit pattern contacting the contact pin and a light source connected to the circuit pattern and irradiating a light, and rotatablely couples on a front end of the body unit. The circuit pattern selectively contacts with the contact pin according to the rotation of the head unit so that the rechargeable battery is charged, and the light source is turned on or turned off. |
| US08376564B2 |
Fashion illumination system
A fashion apparel accessory, such as a garment, having one or more concealed light sources positioned so as to illuminate the skin of the wearer, as opposed to focusing attention on the light sources themselves. A particular embodiment includes concealed light sources proximate to a low-cut neckline of a female's garment, such as brassiere, shirt, or item of lingerie, with the light sources being oriented so as direct illumination across the wearer's chest area in an alluring way, potentially offering multiple color, intensity, direction/control options as well as multiple deployment techniques/devices. A portable power supply is integrated with the garment or accessory and electrically connected to the light sources. |
| US08376562B2 |
Light-emitting module, self-ballasted lamp and lighting equipment
A light-emitting module includes a module substrate, semiconductor light-emitting elements and a connection substrate. On one face of the module substrate, a conductive layer is formed. The semiconductor light-emitting elements and the connection substrate are mounted on the conductive layer of the module substrate. Electric wires, which extend from a lighting circuit, are connected to the connection substrate. Power is supplied to the semiconductor light-emitting elements through the connection substrate and the conductive layer of the module substrate. |
| US08376561B2 |
Chemiluminescent grenade
The present invention discloses a non-pyrotechnic, light emitting projectile for marking and illuminating a target. The projectile generally contains a main body having frangible side walls, at least one frangible ampoule containing chemiluminescent reactant components, a substantially incompressible filler material positioned between the frangible side walls and ampoule, and a first and second end cap. The first end cap is designed to be traversable between a first position and a second position upon impact with an object, thus provides a force sufficient to rupture the frangible side walls and ampoules. Rupture of the ampoules causes intermixing of the chemiluminescent reactant components and formation of a chemiluminescent slurry. The second end cap provides sufficient energy transfer to the chemiluminescent slurry upon impact with a target to disperse the chemiluminescent slurry radially and outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis of the main body. |
| US08376558B2 |
Systems and methods for projecting in response to position change of a projection surface
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods that are related to projection. For example, in some embodiments, a method includes obtaining information associated with one or more changes in one or more positions associated with one or more projection surfaces; coordinating one or more changes in one or more positions associated with one or more projection surfaces with one or more commands; and projecting in response to the information associated with one or more changes in one or more positions associated with one or more projection surfaces. In further embodiments, content for projection is selected in response to the coordinating. |
| US08376557B2 |
Housing with foot pads and couplers
A housing includes a wall, a connector, a coupler, and a foot pad. The housing includes a bottom surface, a recess defined in the bottom surface, and a discontinuous ring-shaped engagement member surrounding the recess. The engagement member has a first gap and a second gap aligned with the first gap. The connector is connected to the engagement member and is rotatably engaged in the first gap. The coupler includes a main body and an engagement portion extending from a circumference surface thereof. A first engagement hole defined in a central portion of the main body. The main body is rotatably connected to the connector and engagable in the recess. The engagement portion engages in the second gap. The foot pad is connected to the coupler to seal the first engagement hole and received in the recess. |
| US08376555B2 |
Projector and lens collar module thereof
A projector includes a casing, a light source disposed in the casing and capable of providing an illumination beam, a light valve disposed in the casing and capable of converting the illumination beam into an image beam, a lens disposed in the casing and adapted to project the image beam, and the lens collar module. The lens collar module includes a fitting part and a lens collar. The fitting part is formed on the casing, and has a fitting opening and a first bump. The lens collar has a fitting periphery and a second bump. The fitting periphery is fitted to the fitting opening, the lens collar is adapted to be rotated and translated relative to the casing along an axial direction. Engagement of the first bump and the second bump limits rotation and translation of the lens collar relative to the casing along the axial direction. |
| US08376551B2 |
Illumination system for laser projection
A color combining apparatus has first, second, and third color channels, each color channel having a light source that is energizable to direct light of a corresponding first, second, or third wavelength band, respectively, toward a color combining element. The color combining element is a single piece of a solid, transparent material having at least first and second flat coated surfaces that are noncontiguous. The first coated surface is treated to reflect incident light of the first wavelength band onto an optical axis and to transmit incident light of the second and third wavelength bands. The second coated surface is treated to reflect incident light of the second wavelength band and to transmit incident light of the third wavelength band. |
| US08376550B2 |
Projection system, projection apparatus, and imaging module
A projection system including a light valve, a lens, an arc reflector, and an arc screen is provided. The light valve is capable of providing an image beam. The lens is disposed in the transmission path of the image beam. The arc reflector has an arc reflective surface. The arc reflective surface is disposed in the transmission path of the image beam from the lens, so as to reflect the image beam. The arc reflective surface is curved in a first direction and not curved in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The arc screen is disposed in the transmission path of the image beam reflected by the arc reflective surface. The arc screen is curved in the first direction and not curved in a third direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. A projection apparatus and an imaging module are also provided. |
| US08376535B2 |
Liquid container
A liquid container detachably mountable to a mounting portion of an apparatus, the mounting portion including a first locking portion and a second locking portion, the liquid container including a casing for containing liquid and a supply port for supplying the liquid to an ink jet head, the liquid container includes a first engaging portion provided at a first side of the casing and engageable with the first locking portion; a second engaging portion provided opposed to a second side of the casing which is opposite the first side, the second engaging portion being engageable with the second locking portion; a supporting member for displaceably supporting the second engaging portion; a contact contactable to a member provided in the mounting portion to permit information display means to display information relating to the liquid container, wherein the supply port is disposed in a third side of the casing which is between the first side and the second side, and the contact is disposed at a corner region between the second side and the third side. |
| US08376534B2 |
Ink reservoir with automatic air vent
An ink reservoir for a printer with an inkjet printhead includes a housing for storing a quantity of ink; an air inlet valve having a ball biased against an aperture of the air inlet valve for sealing an interior of the housing from atmosphere; an ink outlet valve having a circular valve seat and a ball for sealing against the valve seat; and a valve actuator having a sliding shaft extending between the ink outlet valve and the air inlet valve. The valve actuator opens the air inlet valve in response to the ink outlet valve opening to establish fluid communication with the inkjet printhead. The ball in the ink outlet valve is adapted to engage one end of the sliding shaft to slide the shaft towards the air inlet valve, whereat the other end of the shaft engages the ball of the air inlet valve against the bias applied thereon. |
| US08376525B2 |
Liquid discharge head and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a method of manufacturing a liquid discharge head including: forming a first pattern for forming the flow path on the substrate; forming a first coating layer which covers the first pattern; forming a hole in the first coating layer, through which the first pattern is exposed; forming a second pattern for forming the flow path on the first coating layer, such that the second pattern contacts with the first pattern through the hole; forming a second coating layer for covering the second pattern; forming the discharge port in the second coating layer; and removing the first pattern and the second pattern to form the flow path. |
| US08376520B2 |
Printhead assembly having a casing part for supporting printhead modules
A printhead assembly is disclosed. The printhead assembly includes at least one printhead module having at least two printhead integrated circuits, a drive electronics part incorporating at least one controller for controlling the printing operation of at least one of the at least two printhead integrated circuits, and a casing part for supporting the drive electronics part and the at least one printhead module. The casing part incorporates a clamping arrangement for removably clamping the at least one printhead module to the casing part. The clamping arrangement allows movement of the at least one printhead module relative to the casing during operation of the printhead assembly. |
| US08376519B2 |
Printhead having assembly of printhead modules
A printhead is provided having an assembly of printhead modules. Each printhead module has a support defining fluid chambers, a fluid distributor on the support, and an integrated circuit on the distributor so that fluid in the chambers is distributed to the fluid ejection nozzles of the integrated circuit by the distributor. The support and distributor of each printhead module are shaped to define complementary formations on opposite sides of that printhead module so that the printhead modules are mated together in an angled fashion with the integrated circuits of the mated printhead modules abutting together and diagonally overlapping to define at least one row of fluid ejection nozzles of the printhead. |
| US08376517B2 |
Method for manufacturing liquid flow passage unit, liquid flow passage unit, liquid ejecting head unit, and liquid ejecting apparatus
A method for manufacturing a liquid flow passage unit that is disposed between a liquid supply source storing liquid and a head main body and that forms a part of a flow passage leading from the liquid supply source to the head main body, includes bringing a film member into contact with a protrusion formed on the edge of an opening of a flow passage for liquid formed in a main body member made of resin, so as to cover the opening with the film member, pressing the film member covering the opening toward the flow passage, so as to apply a predetermined tension to the film member, and integrally molding a sealing member by pouring resin on the edge of the tensioned film member, so as to fix the film member between the sealing member and the main body member. |
| US08376511B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus for a printer forms images by injecting inks on a printing paper being fed on a feeding path. The image forming apparatus comprises a head holder surface provided on the feeding path with being opposed to a surface of the feeding path and a plurality of ink heads for injecting inks from injection ports thereof. Here, the injection ports of the plurality of ink heads are projected outward from the head holder surface. The image forming apparatus can achieve further downsizing and multifunctional capability and improve quality of higher pixelated printed images. In addition, the image forming apparatus can prevent negative effects such as ink injection failures or defacement of printed matters due to ink mists made on injecting ink. |
| US08376509B2 |
Apparatus for wiping
An apparatus for wiping is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus for wiping includes a wiper arm, including a wiping end and a first track, a pin engaging the first track, a second track engaging the pin, and an appendage engaging the pin. |
| US08376508B2 |
Fluid ejecting apparatus
Provided is a fluid ejecting apparatus including: a fluid ejecting head which has nozzle rows formed by a plurality of nozzles and ejects a fluid to a medium; an absorbing member absorbs the fluid that is ejected from the nozzles during a flushing process, and is a linear member which extends along a nozzle row; a first movement mechanism which relatively moves the absorbing member in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the nozzle rows between a retreat position where the absorbing member retreats from the ejection direction of the fluid ejected from the nozzles and a flushing position where the absorbing member overlaps with the ejection direction; and an accommodating portion which is formed on the fluid ejecting head and accommodates the absorbing member at the retreat position. |
| US08376507B2 |
Non-contact inkjet print head cleaning
In one embodiment, a non-contact print head cleaning device includes an elongated cavity underlying a print head and a vacuum port connected to the elongated cavity and generating a low pressure in the elongated cavity. A slot in a wall of the elongated cavity has a geometry that varies along its length to produce an airflow with a substantially uniform velocity into the slot. The airflow sucks contaminants off the print head into the slot. A method for non-contact print head cleaning is also provided. |
| US08376505B2 |
Media processing device and a control method and program therefor
A media processing device, control method therefor, and associated program prevent a drop in the throughput of a media production process due to cleaning the print head. A publisher has a media drive, a transportation unit that conveys a recording medium according to a transportation command received from a host, and a printer that discharges ink from the nozzles of a print head to print on the label side of the recording medium. The printer also applies a cleaning process to the print head according to an internal signal that is generated when the transportation command or a data write command is received from a host. The cleaning process is executed while the media is conveyed. |
| US08376503B1 |
Method and system of in-document detection of weak or missing inkjets in an inkjet printer
A method enables the positions of inoperable inkjets in printheads to be corrected for positional changes arising from shifts in media, shrinkage of the media, thermal expansion of optical sensors that detect the inoperable inkjets, and other measurement errors. The measurement errors are detected with reference to image data corresponding to a reference pattern printed within a portion of a print job. Thus, reference marks do not need to be printed in areas outside of a print job as previously required. |
| US08376501B2 |
Reflex printing
The present disclosure provides for an imaging system comprising an image receiving surface which is moved in a downstream direction; a first marking station which applies a first image to the image receiving surface; and, a second marking station, downstream of the first marking station, which applies a second image to the image receiving surface. The imaging system further comprises a first measuring device at a first location at a beginning of a platen which outputs velocity measurement information related to the moving image receiving surface; a second measuring device at a second location at an end of the platen which outputs tension measurement information related to a tension increase in the media receiving surface between the first and second locations; and, a control system in communication with the first and second marking stations, the control system being configured for determining a modified actuation time of at least one of the first and second marking stations based on the information provided by the first and second measuring devices. |
| US08376500B2 |
Image recording apparatus, method of calculating record position shifts, and method of recording measured patterns
An image recording apparatus records a plurality of measuring patterns on a recording medium. Each measuring pattern is constituted by dots spaced from one another on the recording medium, or by dots contacting one another, forming lines spaced from one another on the recording medium. Further, the measuring patterns have gravity centers are almost identical in position on the recording medium. Hence, the relative record shifts of the measuring patterns recorded by recording element arrays, respectively, can be decreased. |
| US08376499B2 |
Adjusting measurements
A system for adjusting measurements is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes an optical sensor having a window marked with two fiducials and at least one processor coupled to the optical sensor. |
| US08376498B1 |
High productivity spreader/transfix system for duplex media sheets in an inkjet printer
A method of operating a printer produces duplex images with improved throughput. The method monitors the position of an area of pressure roller that carries release agent and synchronizes a media transport to insert a media sheet into a nip formed with the pressure roller so the release agent on the pressure roller exits the nip as the leading edge of the media sheet enters the nip. The circumference of the pressure roller is an integral number times the length of the media sheet plus inter-document gap. |
| US08376490B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and recording medium
An image forming apparatus includes a driving part driving a recording head; a signal generation part generating a common driving signal; and a transfer part transferring image data and control data to the driving part. The driving part includes a storage part capturing mask pattern transfer data to mask a predetermined one or more of different driving signals of the common driving signal provided by the signal generation part, the mask pattern transfer data being included in the control data; and a latching part latching the mask pattern transfer data, generating a signal to mask the common driving signal, and selectively performing one of control operations other than latching on the stored mask pattern transfer data, based on the combination of the value of the mask pattern transfer data and the value of a mask pattern transfer clock signal, when the latching part is caused to enter a latching state. |
| US08376488B2 |
Image recording device
An image recording device for recording an image by an interlace system of scanning a specified region repeatedly with use of an ink-jet head having a configuration of a plurality of nozzle heads arranged in a sub-scanning direction, the nozzle head including multiple ink discharged discharge nozzles arranged in the sub-scanning direction. |
| US08376486B2 |
Liquid jet apparatus having a modulation period modification circuit
A liquid jet apparatus according to the present invention includes a drive waveform generator adapted to generate a drive waveform signal, a modulator adapted to execute pulse modulation on the drive waveform signal, a digital power amplifier adapted to power-amplify the modulated signal, on which the pulse modulation is executed by the modulator, with a pair of switching elements push-pull coupled with each other, a low pass filter adapted to smooth the amplified digital signal obtained by the power-amplification of the digital power amplifier, and a modulation period modification circuit adapted to modify a modulation period of the pulse modulation of the modulator based on data of the drive waveform signal. |
| US08376484B2 |
Support arrangement and refrigerator provided therewith
A refrigerator that includes at least one vertical support that has a vertical guiding groove with a recess and a plurality of vertically staggered steps provided therein, and a horizontal support provided with a peg engaged into the recess of the guiding groove. In the interlocked position of the horizontal support, the peg rests on one of the steps and presses against a first wall of the vertical support from which the steps protrude. A contact surface of the horizontal support presses against a second wall of the vertical support, the second wall being arranged opposite to the first wall. The contact surface and the steps are staggered in the direction of the width of the walls, the steps being located in a lower position in the recess than the contact surface. |
| US08376482B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator includes a storage compartment, and a shelf assembly provided in the storage compartment to be vertically adjustable, wherein the shelf assembly includes a support unit provided to be movable obliquely, and a shelf unit which is mounted on the support unit to move up and down according to an oblique movement of the support unit. The refrigerator has a simple structure capable of lifting a shelf up and down, thereby facilitating the manufacture and reducing manufacturing costs. |
| US08376481B2 |
Refrigerator and rail assembly of refrigerator and refrigerator door alignment method
Provided is a rail assembly of a refrigerator. The rail assembly includes a pair of extendable rails, a rack, pinions, and restricting units. The rails are disposed at left and right sides of an inner wall of a storage space. The rack is disposed under the rails. The rack includes teeth continuously formed in a length direction of the rails and a flat alignment part disposed at a front side of the rack. The pinions are respectively disposed at the rails and movable in mesh with the teeth of the rack. The restricting units are disposed at sides of the rails for restricting a movement of the rails when the rails are extended, so as to prevent the pinions from departing from the rack. When the rails are maximally extended, the pinions are placed at the alignment part. |
| US08376480B2 |
Actuating mechanism for moving an upwardly movable flap of a piece of furniture
An actuating mechanism for moving a highly movable flap of a piece of furniture includes a main body intended for attachment to a furniture body. An actuating arm for moving the flap has one end mounted on a bearing axis of the main body and the other end mounted on a bearing axis of a fitting part intended for attachment to the flap. An additional control arm for moving the flap is also provided. During the movement of the control arm, the effective lever arm length of the control arm can be varied, and the effective lever arm length of the control arm is shortened when opening the actuating arm. |
| US08376473B2 |
Vehicular brake system
First hydraulic-pressure supply piping extended from an accumulator is connected to a first supply port (that is, to a second pressure chamber) of a cylinder, and to second hydraulic-pressure delivery piping of an ABS via third hydraulic-pressure supply piping having a third linear valve. When the braking hydraulic pressure Pf is reduced in the ABS, the degree and the period of time that the third linear valve is opened are set according to the amount of fluid discharged from the second hydraulic-pressure delivery piping to a reservoir tank through a pressure-reducing valve so that a certain amount of fluid is returned from the first hydraulic-pressure supply piping to the second hydraulic-pressure delivery piping via the third hydraulic-pressure supply piping. |
| US08376465B2 |
Adjustable head restraint assembly for vehicle seats
An adjustable head restraint assembly for a vehicle seat is provided with a pair of shells. Each shell is sized to mate with the other and collectively retain a pair of posts therebetween. A frame adapted to mate with the pair of shells for retaining the pair of shells upon the pair of posts. A locking mechanism is provided on at least one of the frame and the pair of shells for locking the pair of shells and the frame to the pair of posts, and for permitting adjustment of the pair of shells and the frame along the posts. |
| US08376462B2 |
Aircraft seat with adjustable armrests
An aircraft seat includes a seat bottom frame, a seat translation and rotation mechanism attached to the seat bottom frame allowing translation and rotational movement of the seat bottom frame. An armrest is removably attached to the side of the seat bottom frame, and can be set to different positions relative to the seat bottom. The armrest has a seat control mounted to an outside of the armrest, and an input transfer mechanism disposed inside the armrest. The input transfer mechanism has an end engaged to the seat control, and a receiver end. The input transfer mechanism is cable-less. A couple shaft is engaged with the receiver end and engaged with the seat translation and rotation mechanism. When the seat control is actuated, the input transfer mechanism causes the seat translation and rotation mechanism to allow the seat bottom frame to at least one of translate and rotate. |
| US08376461B2 |
Child seat convertible between a high chair configuration and a swing configuration and method of conversion thereof
A child seat includes a main support frame, a swing frame connected pivotally to the main support frame, a seat frame connected to the swing frame and convertible between a high chair configuration and a swing configuration, a first locking mechanism including a latch disposed movably between the swing frame and the main support frame and engaged releasably with the main support frame, and a second locking mechanism including a protrusion provided on the swing frame and movable between a first position, where movement of the latch is prevented, and a second position, where movement of the latch is permitted so that the latch can move away from the main support frame, thereby converting the seat frame to the swing configuration. |
| US08376459B2 |
Vehicle seat
When a tilt-down function is performed, a rotationally-preventing condition of a reclining device connecting a base member and an intermediate member is released, so that a seat back is tiltably rotated forwardly integrally with the intermediate member and a seat cushion is pushed by a boomerang link capable of moving with the intermediate member so as to be sunk downwardly while tiltably rotating a front link. However, when a walk-in function is performed, a rotationally-preventing condition of a memory device connecting the seat back and the intermediate member is released, so that the seat back can be tiltably rotated to a forwardly inclined position independently of the intermediate member that is maintained in a condition in which the intermediate member is integrated with the base member. |
| US08376445B2 |
Vehicle interior part, and method of manufacturing thereof, and mold thereof
A vehicle interior part comprises a blow molded portion that is molded in a hollow shape by a pair of resin sheets being blow molded and that includes joined portions of the pair of resin sheets, and vacuum molded portions that are molded by one of the pair of resin sheets being vacuum molded at outer sides of the blow molded portion. |
| US08376444B2 |
Integrated structural system for a vehicle
An integrated structural system for a vehicle is provided. The integrated structural system having a molded duct system configured to guide airflow, the molded duct system having a first section and a second section, the molded duct system configured to provide a supporting surface; and a metal structure, the metal structure integrated with the molded duct system by a means for integrating the metal structure with the molded duct system forming an integrated structural load path assembly, the integrated structural load path assembly being configured as a load bearing area to distribute a load on the supporting surface over the integrated structural load path assembly, wherein the means for integrating the metal structure with the molded duct system includes one of sonic welding, heat staking, insert molding, and gluing. |
| US08376442B1 |
Latch assembly for a rear row stadium style jump seat
A latch assembly with a first leg securing to a seat bottom and a second leg pivotally engaged to an upper end of a stanchion mount. A sector is pivotally slaved to the second leg opposing the stanchion and exhibits a bottom shoulder projection separating into first and second surface locations. A pendulum pivotally secures to the stanchion and seats against a first sector location with the seat bottom in a downward position. The seat bottom is rotated in an upward direction, causing a detent lever to pivot out of engagement with a notch location of a supporting frame and travel along an edge extending profile thereof, simultaneous with the sector displacing relative to the pendulum. The detent lever reestablishes seating engagement with a second notch location concurrent with the pendulum pivoting into engagement with a second sector location corresponding to an upwardly rotated position of the seat. |
| US08376441B2 |
Work vehicle
A pick-up style work vehicle includes a rollover protection structure (ROPS), a seat section including a forward driver's seat and a rear seat, and a rear seat posture changing mechanism for changing the rear seat in its position between a first posture where the rear seat is in a non-use condition and a second posture where the rear seat is in a use condition. A fore/aft length of the rear seat in the first posture is shorter than the fore/aft length of the rear seat in the second posture. The work vehicle also includes a partitioning member for partitioning the seat section from a space behind the seat section with the partitioning member being supported by the ROPS. The partitioning member is movable with being supported by the ROPS between a rearwardly displaced position immediately behind the rear seat and a forwardly displaced position moved forward from the rearwardly displaced position. |
| US08376440B2 |
Seat device
An airplane seat includes a processing unit, adapted to operate actuators, and a memory unit in which at least one comfort position transition dataset for bringing about a comfort position transition between at least two comfort positions is memorized. The processing unit, in at least one operating mode, is adapted to operate the actuators in accordance with the comfort position transition dataset for bringing about the comfort position transition. |
| US08376439B2 |
Paneled deck assembly for transporter vehicle
A deck assembly for use with a transporter vehicle is provided. The deck assembly includes a fastener, a first deck panel including an upper support surface, a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall defining at least one first opening, the second side wall defining at least one second opening and a second deck panel coupled to the first deck panel, the second deck panel including an upper support surface, a first side wall and a second side wall, the first side wall defining at least one first opening, the second side wall defining at least one second opening. The second side wall of the first deck panel is supported adjacent to the first side wall of the second deck panel such that the at least one first opening of the first deck panel is at least partially aligned with the at least one second opening of the second deck panel to define a through hole for the fastener. The fastener is received within the through hole and secures the first deck panel to the second deck panel. |
| US08376438B1 |
Pickup bed tool tray apparatus
The pickup bed tool tray apparatus provides a movable, motorized tray that fits between the inner sides of a pickup bed, just below the bed top. The apparatus is therefore not in the way of storing or carrying anything in the bed. By using the control, the tray may be moved fore and aft, as needed, to best access tools and other equipment that may be carried in the tray. |
| US08376437B2 |
Truck bed cap
The present truck bed cap consists of an internal frame having a first shelf, a second shelf and a top, wherein the internal frame is connected to corner supports attached to the bed of the truck. In a first motion the top shifts vertically with respect to the internal frame. In a second motion the internal frame shifts vertically with respect to the corner supports and the bed of the truck. |
| US08376435B2 |
Configurable seating and console system
A seating and console system for use in a seating row and configurable between a seating configuration and a console configuration. The system comprises a seat including a seat base and a seat back, and a console mounted to an opposite side of the seat back. The seat back rotates between a first position to provide the seating configuration and a second position to provide the console configuration that divides the seating row. |
| US08376434B2 |
Shackle bow and shackle
A shackle bow comprises a generally U-shaped body having a first end, a second end and aligned openings defined in the first and second ends. The body has a load bearing portion positioned between the first and second ends. The load bearing portion has a cross section comprising a bearing surface that curves through more than 180 degrees and an intersecting channel-shaped supporting surface. The channel-shaped supporting surface comprises opposing channel side portions extending from opposite sides of a channel base surface and a series of spaced apart ribs connecting the opposing channel side portions to each other. |
| US08376432B1 |
Impeller jig
An impeller jig for lifting and positioning an impeller having a shaft bore in a pump. The impeller jig includes a frame, a lifting aperture attached to the upper end of the frame and a lifting point attached to the opposed end of the frame adapted to engage the shaft bore of the impeller. A pair of opposed jacks are attached to the opposed end of the frame and adapted to engage at least two opposed outer surfaces of the impeller adjacent to the shaft bore of the impeller thereby forming a stability triangle with the lifting point. Also, the impeller jig may further include a positioning weight adjacent to the lifting aperture for transferring the center of gravity of the impeller jig upwardly and sufficiently close to the lifting vertical centerline to permit the impeller jig to be positioned for engaging the impeller by the operator prior to lifting. |
| US08376425B2 |
Automotive door striker
Automotive door striker having a center-mounted hex nut integrally formed as part of the striker pin. A rotatable elastomeric sleeve is provided for noise reduction. A baseplate connects the striker pin to a mounting flange for a shock absorber. |
| US08376422B2 |
Door latch assembly and methods of use thereof
A door latch assembly is attachable to a door jamb. The door latch assembly includes a base member and an extension member. The base member is mountable to the door jamb. The extension member is connectable to the base member such that the extension member extends from the base member. The extension member has a door stop member and a latch cup member. The door stop member is disposed substantially perpendicular to the latch cup member so that the door stop member provides a support for the door and the latch cup member receives a latch of the door so that the door is maintained in an ajar position. |
| US08376420B2 |
Magnetic locking device
A closing and opening device for a furniture element is mounted movably on an item of furniture. The device includes a lockable ejection device for moving the movable furniture element out of a closed end position into an open position, and further includes a magnetic retaining device for the movably mounted furniture element. The magnetic retaining device includes at least two parts of which a first part is or can be arranged on the furniture body and the second part is or can be arranged on the movable furniture element and which exert a magnetic attraction force on each other at least in the closed position of the movable furniture element. The first part of the retaining device, that is arranged on the furniture body, is mounted movably in the direction of the movable furniture element and is acted upon by a force storage means acting in the closing direction of the movable furniture element. |
| US08376419B2 |
Vehicle door latch device
A vehicle door latch device, comprising: a housing provided in a vehicle door; a latch rotatably supported by the housing, wherein a striker provided in the vehicle body can be fitted to the latch; a pawl having a shaft portion rotatably supported by the housing, wherein the pawl is engageable with the latch to restrict rotation of the latch; a helical torsion spring having a helical portion through which the shaft portion is passed, first and second engaging legs extending radially outward in relation to the helical portion, wherein the first engaging leg is engaged with the pawl, and the second engaging leg is engaged with the housing, the helical torsion spring always urging the pawl to rotate to an engagement position where the pawl can be engaged with the latch; and a projecting wall formed in the housing, the projecting wall contacting an outer circumferential surface of the helical portion. |
| US08376413B2 |
Connection device
A connection device for connecting a line for the transport of media, including a flange with a medium passage for passing through a medium along a flow direction, preferably along an axis of symmetry, and including a clamp. The flange includes a contact section and the clamp includes a clamping section, and the flange and the clamp are separably connectable, so that an end section of the line can be clamped between the contact section and the clamping section. The contact section is inclined with respect to the flow direction, and the clamping section is inclined with respect to the flow direction in an assembled state. |
| US08376412B2 |
One piece connection assembly
Provided is a means for efficiently completing a high pressure seal and a connector assembly comprising two sealing members, each comprising an annular groove, and two elastomeric gasket members, each disposed into and fittingly received by the annular grooves of one of said sealing members, each gasket additionally comprising a sealing face not received into the annular grooves, wherein the sealing faces are in mutual aligned pressurized contact. |
| US08376409B2 |
Security sheet comprising a fibrous substrate
The present invention relates to a security film comprising a fibrous substrate incorporated at least partially in which is a security strip that comprises at least one security element and that extends between two edges of said fibrous substrate, said security strip being made of paper and comprising an adhesive. |
| US08376408B2 |
Children's book
The book consists, in a conventional way, of a series of pages, each one of them being formed by two plates of hard cardboard and an intermediate layer made of rubber foam. The cardboard plate (1) of the front side and the cardboard plate (1′) of the reverse side respectively incorporate slots (3, 3′), that describe a trajectory with the shape of an “L”, or any other appropriate trajectory. The slots (3, 3′) are intended to allow the children to introduce their fingers and move a cursor (4) that slips through a slot (5) in the rubber foam layer (2), thus making an itinerary or path for the cursor (4), that can be followed with the finger of the child through the path created by such slot (5) of the rubber foam layer (2). |
| US08376407B2 |
Occupant restraint system with belt pre-tensioner
A seat belt system for a vehicle has a shoulder-belt extending diagonally across the seat. A belt tensioner applies tension to the belt in response to detection/prediction of a potentially unsafe situation by a safety sensor/control system. A support arm has an upper end mounted to the vehicle structure above an upper outboard portion of the seat. The support arm extends downwardly and a guide member is attached to the lower end of the support arm and engages the belt. The lower end of the support arm is movable relative to the upper end/mounting point such that when the tensioner is activated, the belt urges the guide member from a comfort position relatively far from the neck and/or upper shoulder of a seat occupant to a safety position closer to the seat. |
| US08376400B2 |
Gas generating system
A gas generating system is provided including a first housing formed from a polymeric material, and a pyrotechnic gas generant material contained in the first housing. The first housing forms a combustion chamber for the gas generant. An airbag system and a vehicle occupant protection system, each incorporating a gas generating system as described herein, are also disclosed. |
| US08376397B2 |
Head protection air bag system
In a head protection air bag system of the invention, an air bag includes an edge side shield portion which is accommodated in a pillar portion. The edge side shield portion is mounted on a body side by a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion which is positioned further downwards than the first mounting portion. An auxiliary mounting portion which is fastened together with the second mounting portion is provided in a position where a longitudinal position of the edge side shield portion coincides with the second mounting portion and a vertical position thereof coincides with the first mounting portion. An extension which extends in a straight line from the first mounting portion is provided on the auxiliary mounting portion. In the edge side shield portion, a portion between the second mounting portion and the first mounting portion is connected to the extension by a connecting portion. |
| US08376395B2 |
Airbag flap arrangement hinged on a dashboard
The invention relates to an airbag flap arrangement hinged to a dashboard provided with an opening closed by a flap (4), both the opening and the flap being defined by an outline (3), the flap being suitable for opening so as to allow an airbag to be deployed. The arrangement is provided with one or more linear ties (11-14) fastened to one face of the dashboard body and to one face of the flap, in such manner that at least two linear tie segments straddle a lateral portion (8, 9) of the outline (3). The two linear tie segments are slack and cross over each other at the lateral portion of the outline that they straddle so as to constitute means for limiting the amplitude of opening of the flap. The invention relates to motor vehicle safety. |
| US08376387B2 |
Multi-function anti-rotational/anti-theft hitch ball assembly
The Multi-Function Anti-Rotational/Anti-Theft Hitch Ball Assembly of the present invention provides a trailer hitch assembly that includes an anti-rotational hitch ball mechanism that can also serve as an anti-theft hitch ball mechanism and can further simultaneously function as an attachment method for securing additional hitch accessories to the ball mount. The invention provides an engagement method for interlocking the hitch ball with the ball mount preventing rotation of the hitch ball relative to the ball mount. The interlocking engagement assembly may also be locked in place preventing the hitch ball from being removed from the ball mount if the hitch ball fastener is removed. In addition, a component of the assembly can serve as an attachment method for securing additional accessories to the ball mount. |
| US08376385B2 |
Half round trailer with lower center of gravity
A trailer including a body having a cavity formed by an upper surface and a lower surface, at least a portion of a coupling assembly disposed within the cavity and having a reinforcement plate proximate the lower surface, a distribution plate, at least one support beam, and a top plate, wherein the distribution plate is disposed atop the reinforcement plate, the at least one support beam is disposed atop the distribution plate, and the top plate is disposed atop the at least one support beam. |
| US08376382B2 |
Vehicle suspension linkage
A suspension linkage that produces a rearward arcing wheel path, comprising of either single or paired pivotally connected members. Cross linked trailing arm members attach pivotally to the frame and a rearmost vertical contact mounting point member with the mounting point for the rear wheel axle, ski or skid protruding below the cross linked trailing arms. This offers benefit for vehicle navigating rough terrain at high speed. The present invention provides a suspension linkage that produces a more rearward arcing wheel path than could be produced by a single pivot placed within the same physical bounds as the pivot points of the invention and introduces desirable ride effects related to accelerating and braking. |
| US08376381B2 |
Versatile, collapsible cart-trailer with modular components
A collapsible cart-trailer includes a folding mechanism that folds the cart-trailer into a small form factor, at least two wheels, modular, and removable and compartmentalized storage. The collapsible cart-trailer is operable in a cart mode and a trailer mode. In the trailer mode, the cart-trailer may be coupled to a movable object by a collapsible, length adjustable tow bar. In the cart mode, the cart-trailer includes a collapsible handle. |
| US08376378B2 |
Self-propelled vehicle and articulated steerable mobile chassis thereof
An articulated steerable self-propelled vehicle has a support platform mounting a motive power source and sites at opposite sides of motive power source where an operator's feet can be placed to enable the operator to stand on platform and straddle motive power source. First suspension assembly on vehicle is pivotally mounted to platform in order to dispose and couple first ground surface contacting member spaced in first direction from platform, movable to follow the ground surface, vertically movable relative to platform to accommodate impact generated by uneven ground surface, and steerable horizontally relative to platform and the ground surface. Second support assembly on the vehicle is pivotally mounted to platform in order to dispose and couple second ground surface contacting member spaced in second direction from of platform, movable to follow the ground surface, and vertically movable relative to platform to accommodate impact generated by uneven ground surface. |
| US08376376B2 |
Wheeled container platform for a single bucket
The invention is a wheeled platform adapted to accommodate at least one five gallon bucket surrounded by a plurality of storage compartments for use by a tradesman such as a drywall installer, tile installer, auto detailer, and the like. The wheeled platform includes a rigid base, having a lower and an upper surface structurally interconnected by a plurality of structural ribs and flanges. The flanges extend upward from the upper surface of the base to define a plurality of compartments which are intended to be used to store materials and tools used by the tradesman in the performance of their work. The platform base and flange arrangement define at least one cylindrical compartment for receiving a five gallon bucket. Four caster wheels are appropriately attached to the lower surface of the base so that the platform can be wheeled from a service vehicle to a specific job site having stored therein, the tradesman's tools, as well as necessary material supplies to perform daily job functions. A retainer arrangement is provided on either side of the bucket to create a biasing force to secure the bucket within the compartment of the wheeled platform. The retainer arrangement permits the bucket to be lifted by its handle so that the bucket and platform base secured thereto can be conveniently lifted over uneven terrain or up and down steps. |
| US08376373B2 |
Controllable suspension architecture for enhanced armoured vehicle survivability
The present embodiments relate to a semi-active suspension control system that utilizes controllable dampers for the purpose of improving maneuverability and vehicle hull stabilization. The disclosed semi-active control system can work in conjunction with a height management unit and on vehicles having variable ride heights, and hull stability and maneuverability can be achieved regardless of vehicle payload and ride height. |
| US08376369B2 |
Seal with spiral grooves and contamination entrapment dams
A dynamic seal utilizes a groove on the active side of the seal to capture a leaked lubricant and pump the lubricant back into the lubricated side of the seal. The groove stops short of the leading edge of the seal that faces the lubricant side forming a static dam between the termination point of the groove and the seal edge. When the fluid pressure within the groove exceeds the opening pressure for the seal lip, the lubricant within the groove is pumped back into the lubricant side of the seal. The groove can have an induction zone wherein the fluid pressure rise is gradual and a booster zone wherein the fluid pressure rise is relatively faster than in the induction zone. The booster zone is disposed adjacent the static dam. Bars are provided across the spiral grooves to prevent contaminants from reaching and becoming trapped in the booster zone. |
| US08376365B2 |
Target member
A target member which may be used in conjunction with sporting activities, such as archery, comprising a housing (20, 21) having an outer surface which forms a portion of a target during use, the outer surface having an aperture (18) therein. The target member also comprises a degradable component (22) which is positionable within said housing such that at least a portion of said second component is exposed by said aperture (18). The exposed portion of said degradable component (22) forms part of the target and the degradable component (22) is repositionable upon degradation of the exposed portion through use of the target so as to expose a further portion of said second component (22) by said aperture (18) for further use. |
| US08376364B1 |
Matching games and systems for implementing matching games
One method of conducting a game includes steps: (a) providing first and second decks of cards; (b) accepting a predetermined number of uniform wagers from players; (c) associating with each wager a predetermined number of cards from the first and second decks; (d) after the predetermined number of wagers are accepted, selecting the predetermined number of cards from the first and second decks; (e) determining whether the cards selected after the predetermined number of wagers are accepted matches exactly the cards associated with any wager; (f) performing steps (d) and (e) without further wagering until cards selected after the predetermined number of wagers are accepted matches the cards associated with any wager; and (g) awarding a payout dependent on the number of wagers accepted, the amount of each wager, and the number of players having cards that match the cards selected after the predetermined number of wagers are accepted. |
| US08376363B1 |
Board game using chains
A game, effective for stimulating enjoyment and interaction between family and friends, the game comprising a game board, a timer, a deck of cards, five game pieces, and a set of chains wherein players are divided into teams and one player from each team is designated a chain handler, where the chain handler must use a chain to describe words drawn from one of the cards and the other players on the chain handler's team must guess the word being drawn with the chain. |
| US08376360B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus and sheet stacking control method
A sheet stacking apparatus including first and second stacking trays configured to stack sheets, a detection unit configured to detect a sheet stacking amount on the first stacking tray, a setting unit configured to set an upper limit on stacking amount for controlling the sheet stacking amount that is less than a maximum sheet stacking amount on the first stacking tray, and a control unit configured to stop stacking of sheets on the first stacking tray and stack sheets on the second stacking tray in a case where the sheet stacking amount which is detected by the detection unit reaches the upper limit on stacking amount that is set by the setting unit. |
| US08376358B2 |
Extended registration control of a sheet in a media handling assembly
An apparatus including a sheet registration nip assembly for changing characteristics of the sheet with respect to the transport path. The characteristics of the sheet including a skew position, process direction position or a lateral position of the sheet. The registration nip assembly changing a first sheet characteristic to a first target characteristic by the time the sheet reaches a preliminary registration datum. A delivery registration datum disposed downstream of the registration nip assembly. The registration nip assembly changing a second sheet characteristic to a second target characteristic when at least a portion of the sheet is disposed along the transport path between the preliminary registration datum and the delivery registration datum. The apparatus including an auxiliary nip assembly disposed between the delivery registration datum and the registration nip assembly, wherein the preliminary registration datum is disposed between the delivery registration datum and the auxiliary nip assembly. |
| US08376357B2 |
Sheet registration using input-state linearization in a media handling assembly
Registering a sheet in a differential drive registration system by identifying observed state values corresponding to a sheet handled by the differential drive registration system. The method also including determining an error vector, wherein the error vector is defined by a difference between the observed state values and reference state values for the sheet. Control input values are also determined based on the error vector, a set of control parameters, and the observed state values. The control input values being determined such that there is a linear differential relationship between the observed state values and the control input values. Additionally the method includes generating drive wheel velocities in the differential drive registration system based on the control input values. The identifying and determining steps being repeated for the sheet in a closed-loop process such that the observed state values substantially track the reference state values. |
| US08376345B1 |
Cutter device for use with mailing machine
A cutter device for removing the spine from packets of sheet materials to be enveloped by a mailing machine, including means for redirecting the packets across said cutter device while the packets remain superimposed with other sheet materials to be inserted into the same envelope while being moved along a support surface by a conveyor mechanism, and after cutting being recombined with said other sheet materials prior to being enveloped. |
| US08376343B2 |
Plate pulling machine for pressure filter
A plate pulling machine for a pressure filter, including a base, a support, a pair of plate-removing ears, a pair of plate-pulling ears, a plate-removing support table, a plate-pulling support table, a bracket for a bolt sleeve, a bolt sleeve, and a bolt. The support is fixed on upper end surface of the base. The plate-removing ears and the plate-pulling ears are corresponding to each other, and are disposed on both sides of the top of the support. The plate-removing support table is disposed on the plate-removing ears via a plate-removing rotating shaft. The plate-removing support table is supported via a plate-removing spring. The plate-pulling support table is disposed on the plate-pulling ears via a plate-pulling rotating shaft. The plate-pulling support table is supported via a plate-pulling spring. The bracket for a bolt sleeve is disposed on outside of the plate-pulling support table on the support. |
| US08376341B2 |
Support device
A support device for use with at least one of a stepladder, an extension ladder, and scaffolding, includes a base member manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined shape and a first predetermined size. A height adjustable rod member is operably connected at a first end thereof to such base member. A brace member has a first end and a second end, such first end of such brace member being perpendicularly engaged with such elongated rod member. A securing mechanism is operably disposed on such second end of such brace member for securing such brace member to such at least one of such stepladder, such extension ladder, and such scaffolding,. At least one support member is releasably engageable with such second end of such rod member for supporting a predetermined object thereon. |
| US08376339B2 |
Positioner
A positioner includes a housing, a table, a drive portion, a cylinder, a first winder, and a first cord. The cylinder includes a first opening at the rotation center of the table, and a second opening opposite and connected to the first opening. The first winder is disposed outside the second opening of the cylinder. The first cord includes a first lead-out portion and a first wound portion. The first lead-out portion enters the second opening, passes through the cylinder, and is led out from the table. The first wound portion is wound around the first winder according to the rotation of the table. Thus, the positioner can increase the number of air tubes or wires led out onto the table without increasing its size. |
| US08376336B2 |
Strip off pin clamp
A pin clamp assembly is provided that includes a housing, a locating pin, and a finger. The locating pin is movable with respect to the housing. The locating pin can also selectively entirely retract inside the housing. A finger is supported by the locating pin and retractable and extendable into and out of the locating pin. The finger is also extendable out of the locating pin when at least a portion of the locating pin supporting the finger is exterior of the housing. |
| US08376328B2 |
Fluid filled type vibration damping device
A fluid filled type vibration damping device including: a partition member having a communication passage connecting a pressure receiving and equilibrium chambers; an obstructing rubber elastic plate juxtaposed against the communication passage from an equilibrium chamber side, adapted to obstruct the communication passage, and arranged to be exposed to pressure of the pressure receiving and the equilibrium chamber at both faces; and a constraining member provided for retaining an outer peripheral section of the obstructing rubber elastic plate in contact against the partition member at multiple locations. The constraining member provides an opening/closing control member operated to induce the obstructing rubber elastic plate to push against the partition member and close off the communication passage, and to induce elastic deformation of the obstructing rubber elastic plate to be separated from the partition member. |
| US08376323B2 |
Tower/frame structure and components for same
A tower/frame structure of interconnected columns and beams (which may be used in a cooling tower) and novel columns, beams, connection mechanisms and other components are provided. In one embodiment, a column and a beam are constructed of pultruded composite fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) materials. The beam includes two sidewall extensions or flanges (each having one or more attachment apertures) at one end and which are integral with the beam for connection to the column (having one or more corresponding attachment apertures). The dimension/spacing between the inner walls of the two flanges substantially equals or is slightly larger than the outer dimension of the column. The attachment holes are aligned and a fastener is inserted through the extensions and column for attaching the column and beam. The C-shaped end of the beam substantially conforms to the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the column. Additional plastic components, such as a firewall and toe/trim member, for use in a cooling tower are also provided. |
| US08376321B2 |
Rail assembly having a baluster swing bracket
A rail system has a baluster swing bracket configured to attach a baluster to the underside of a railing. This bracket has a flat body attached to the baluster and a flange offset from the flat body and attached to the railing, creating a gap between the railing and the baluster. This gap enables the baluster to be positioned close to the vertical surface to which the end of the railing is attached because a portion of the fastener connecting the railing to the vertical surface may be within the gap. The flange may be loosened or disconnected from the railing without removing the baluster swing bracket from the baluster. Disconnecting the flange allows the baluster to rotate or swing under the railing. Loosening the flange allows the baluster to rotate outward from the railing. |
| US08376317B2 |
Microfluidic purge valve
A microfluidic purge valve in a microfluidics system includes a notch defined in the valve seat of a microfluidic valve. The notch is sized so that gas entrained within a liquid pumped through the microfluidics system can pass freely therethrough but the liquid cannot. The notch is sized so that the resistant force generated by the surface tension of the liquid is equal to or greater than the force generated by the fluid pressure. |
| US08376316B2 |
Institutional handle assembly
A vandal resistant adjustable metered handle assembly for a faucet is disclosed. The handle assembly includes a body having a base adapted for attachment to a sink and a sidewall extending in an upward direction with respect to the base. The base is attached to a push button handle via a stem. A spring is associated with the body and the push button handle for metering an amount of water emitting from the faucet and a sleeve is positioned between the body and the push button handle. The sleeve cooperates with the sidewall of the body to adjust the shut-off time of the metered handle assembly. The sleeve may be color-coded to indicate water temperature. The handle assembly can be made vandal resistant by adhesively securing various components together and providing an unconventional attachment member for securing the handle assembly to a sink. |
| US08376311B2 |
Valve adjustment assembly
An adjustable valve assembly is disclosed. The valve assembly comprises a mounting portion and an adjustment assembly comprising an adjustable member threadably engaged with the mounting portion, the adjustable member adapted to change its position relative to the mounting portion when rotated and a clevis coupled to the adjustable member, wherein the position of the clevis relative to the mounting portion is adjustable by rotation of the adjustable member. |
| US08376310B2 |
Pinch valve
A pinch valve has a pinch bar constructed and arranged to translate between two different positions when the pinch bar lies in any orientation. The pinch bar is comprised of two orthogonal legs, one of which extends through and rotates inside a hole formed into a body for the valve. Having the pinch bar rotatable enables the pinch bar to be rotated away from where it would open and close a flexible tube. |
| US08376307B2 |
Foldable stand for a portable power tool
A foldable stand for supporting an object, the stand being capable of being folded between an unfolded position and a thin flat folded position, comprising a top frame having a generally rectangular planar configuration with front and rear support members interconnected with left and right spaced apart side support members, each of the side support members having a hinge generally midway along the length thereof, permitting the top frame to be folded when the stand is in the folded position, a pair of foldable leg structures, one of which is attached to each side of the top frame for supporting the top frame, a retaining structure for engaging the object and a locking mechanism for engaging the object, wherein manipulation of the top frame to rotate the hinge between the folded and unfolded positions causes each of the leg structures to be correspondingly moved between folded and unfolded positions. |
| US08376302B2 |
Attaching modules to a medical supply unit
A medical supply unit including a carrier with longitudinal edges and longitudinal faces is provided such that the longitudinal faces are provided with openings at the faces of which resilient fastener elements are provided. These resilient fastener elements engage in built-in modules forming a part of one of the longitudinal faces in order to form a positive connection with the built-in modules. |
| US08376297B2 |
Item securing hook assembly
Units or hook assemblies arranged and configured to adequately capture and hold personal items which have some type of handle, rope, strap or the like. Preferred embodiments include a mounting plate for attachment to a restroom stall wall, door or the like. The mounting plate includes an upper end and a lower end. Preferred embodiments further include a first and second hook elements extending outwardly from the mounting plate. Preferred embodiments are arranged and configured to hinder theft of personal items stored on the hook from an over the stall door or wall attempt. |
| US08376296B2 |
Mounting apparatus for disk drive
A mounting apparatus includes a bracket receiving a disk drive, a locking member and a first resilient member. The bracket includes two first sidewalls and two second sidewalls. Each first sidewall is connected to the two second sidewalls and defines a number of through holes. The locking member includes two frames rotatably secured to the two first sidewalls. Each frame includes a number of pins. The first resilient member is connected to the two frames. Each frame is rotatable between a first position, where the pins are inserted in the bracket via the through holes, and a second position, where the pins are located out of the bracket. The first resilient member is deformed when each frame is rotated from the first position to the second position, and each frame is rotated from the second position to the first position when the first resilient member returns. |
| US08376294B2 |
Tire swing swivel
A swivel assembly for a tire comprises a clamp assembly adapted to be secured to a header tube, a swivel first member suspended from the clamp to pivot either parallel to or perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the header tube, a swivel second member which is suspended from the swivel first member to pivot 90° relative to the pivotal motion of the swivel first member, and a swivel third member which can rotate about the swivel second member. The swivel first member is pivotally mounted to the clamp via an upper pivot pin and the second swivel member is pivotally mounted to the swivel first member by a second lower pivot pin. Lastly, the swivel assembly can include a tether which extends over the header tube to which the clamp assembly is secured which has opposite ends secured to opposite sides of the lower pivot pin. |
| US08376291B1 |
Foldable A-frame carrier
A-frame carriers are used to support slabs and bundles of stone, cases of glass and many more items. A foldable and collapsible A-frame carrier, which is easily assembled for use or disassembled for storage or transport provides more effective support. |
| US08376279B2 |
Inflatable folding wings for a very high altitude aircraft
A foldable wing for use with a very high altitude aircraft capable of operating at an altitude at or above 85,000 feet is disclosed. The foldable wing may employ a spiral fold deployment, wherein a hinge between each segment of the foldable wing is slightly offset from the perpendicular. Successively positioned wing segments fold over one another. Alternatively, the hinges are substantially perpendicular so that each respective wing segment folds linearly against the next wing segment. An inflatable rib, with inflatable arms, can be inflated to provide a force against two adjacent arms, thereby deploying the wing segments through a full 180° of rotation. |
| US08376276B2 |
Load introduction structure, in particular a lining frame, for an aircraft
The invention relates to a load introduction structure for an aircraft, comprising two lateral frames which are arranged opposite one another in the two lateral regions of a fuselage airframe structure of the aircraft and adjoin a continuous floor surface which rests on a floor frame. The two lateral frames are connected via the top thereof by a ceiling frame, the ceiling frame being suspended from a ceiling region of the fuselage airframe structure. Each lateral frame is divided into at least two lateral frame segments. At least three track portions which extend parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft are arranged on each lateral frame segment. The lateral frames are connected to the fuselage airframe structure, the ring frames in particular, by a plurality of x-rods, y-rods and y-cardan rods. The load introduction structure is largely uncoupled according to the invention from the fuselage airframe structure of the aircraft inter alia by a plurality of coupling members arranged between the track portions to form gaps in order to compensate for load-induced and/or thermally-induced deformations, in particular changes in length, of the fuselage airframe structure. |
| US08376275B2 |
Energy absorbing structure for aircraft
Energy absorbing structure disposed beneath the cargo area of an aircraft provides maximum energy absorption and structural strength using carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites. The energy absorbing structure uses laminated stanchions having ply drop-offs to produce stable, progressive crushing of the stanchions during a wheels-up crash landing. Integrally formed flanges on the stanchions allow direct mounting of the stanchions on the structural members of the aircraft, without the need for specialized fittings. |
| US08376271B2 |
Aircraft actuator
An aircraft actuator is provided that can achieve a significant weight reduction, while securing a sufficient tensile strength and a sufficient buckling strength, even if it is provided with a reaction link in which large bent portions are formed. A reaction link is made of fiber reinforced plastic, and includes a pair of linear portions, a coupling portion, and a pair of bent portions. The cross section at the pair of linear portions, the coupling portion, and the pair of bent portions is formed as a hollow cross section. The outer cross sectional area of the hollow cross section at each of the pair of bent portions is configured to be larger than the outer cross sectional area of the hollow cross section at each of the pair of linear portions. |
| US08376268B1 |
Flight control system using thrust devices
A flight control system use in relation to an aviation vehicle having a thrust vectoring device for producing thrust, an air deflecting device for producing thrust having a box structure, and a computing system for receiving operation requirements is used to orient the thrust device and/or air deflecting device. |
| US08376267B2 |
Landing gear with locking steering system
A landing gear system for an aircraft comprises a truck beam (22); at least one steerable axle (42) mounted to the truck beam for pivotal steering movement; a steering actuator (46) connected to the steerable axle; and a locking mechanism (60) including a locking groove member (62) provided on the steerable axle for pivotal movement therewith, and a locking wedge member (64) engageable with the locking groove member to prevent pivotal movement of the steerable axle. The locking groove member includes a slot (63) having opposed sides converging towards one another, and the locking wedge member has correspondingly converging sides for mating engagement in the slot. The locking wedge member is resiliently biased (66, 69) into engagement with the locking groove member and the locking wedge member is mounted to the truck beam for pivotal movement (70). |
| US08376263B2 |
Roadable aircraft
A roadable aircraft and an associated method are disclosed herein. The roadable aircraft includes a body extending along a longitudinal axis and operable to house a human occupant. The roadable aircraft also includes at least first and second wings each being selectively moveable relative to the body between a retracted position for stowing and an extended position for flight. Each of the first and second wings extend a wing cord along the longitudinal axis when in the extended position between a leading edge and a wing trailing-edge vectoring nozzle. The roadable aircraft also includes a system for directing first and second streams of air through the first and second wings, respectively, and out of the first and second wing trailing-edge vectoring nozzles such that thrust for the body is generated. In addition, embodiments of the invention can include a plurality of deployable, vectoring lift fans which are also capable of producing thrust. Thrust for VTOL and cruise flight can be achieved by combining the thrust generated by the wing trailing-edge vectoring nozzles and/or the vectoring lift fans. An alternative to the wing trailing-edge vectoring nozzles would be to vector the entire wing. |
| US08376261B2 |
Landing gear
An aircraft landing gear is described including a noise-reducing means. In one embodiment there is a noise-reducing element that includes an air-deflecting surface, in the form of a fairing, and a perforated airflow-reducing region. In use, some air passes through the perforations, while other air is deflected by the fairing away from a noise-generating region of the landing gear. Noise caused by the passing of the landing gear through the air is therefore reduced. In another embodiment a noise-reducing layer in the form of a mesh is supported by a skeleton structure. |
| US08376260B2 |
Device for loading strips of wiping material for wiping material dispensing apparatuses
A device for loading strips of wipe material for wipe material dispensing machines of the type including a housing that accommodates lateral side pieces which support a drum including a cutting device and a strip of material located above the drum, is distinctive in that it comprises a dual arrangement with, firstly, an enclosure that is concentric with the drum and defines, together with the drum, a gap through which the strip of material passes and, secondly, at least two rollers arranged parallel to each other and rotatably mounted relative to the lateral side pieces of the housing and meshing with a sprocket joined to the drum. An intermediate roller is fitted between the at least two rollers and make it possible to insert the strip of material into the gap between the enclosure and the drum and then eject it towards the front of the machine. |
| US08376245B2 |
Snow making apparatus and method
A low energy snow making gun having at least one but preferably three operational stages each having at least one pair of small aperture water outlets which are oriented at a divergent angle to generate a respective pair of narrow angled water droplet streams which do not interfere with each other until they have reached a distance from the gun. A second pair of water outlets may be provided on each stage with each pair on each stage oriented at a divergent angle to maintain singularity of the streams over a distance thereby increasing the throwing power of the gun. |
| US08376243B2 |
Boiler with an adjacent chamber and an helicoidal heat exchanger
Disclosed is a boiler for providing hot water to a heating system of a building and for simultaneously producing hot domestic water. This boiler comprises a heating tank provided with a water inlet and a water outlet through which water for use in the heating system circulates and an adjacent chamber annexed to the heating tank. This adjacent chamber is in direct communication with the heating tank and containing means for heating the water. The boiler also comprises a heat exchanger provided with a water inlet and a water outlet through which circulates the domestic water. This heat exchanger is made of a plurality of tubular coils of helicoidal shape that are located within the heating tank in order to allow heat transfer between the hot water within the heating tank and the domestic water that circulates within the tubular coils. |
| US08376234B2 |
Method of and reader for electro-optically reading symbols on curved surfaces
Symbols having symbologies with multi-unit, bar and space element, start and stop patterns on curved surfaces of objects, are electro-optically read by capturing light from a target symbol over a scan line, and by generating an electrical analog signal indicative of the captured light over the scan line. A controller digitizes the electrical analog signal into a digitized signal, decodes the digitized signal between the start and stop patterns into valid characters of the target symbol, identifies leading and trailing waveform portions of the analog signal indicative of the start and stop patterns, matches the identified leading and trailing waveform portions of the analog signal against known analog waveforms of the start and stop patterns of the target symbol, and verifies that a match has occurred when the matching between the leading and trailing waveform portions and the known analog waveforms exceeds a known threshold correlation. |
| US08376233B2 |
Bar code symbol reading system employing an extremely elongated laser scanning beam capable of reading poor and damaged quality bar code symbols with improved levels of performance
The system includes a housing having a light transmission window and produces an extremely-elongated laser beam having an elongation ratio (ER) that is defined as greater than 4.5 for any point within the working range of the laser scanning bar code symbol reading system. A laser scanning mechanism is provided for scanning the extremely-elongated laser beam out the light transmission window and across a scanning field defined external to the housing, in which a bar code symbol is present for scanning by the extremely-elongated laser scanning beam. |
| US08376226B2 |
System and method for interactive marketing to consumers
A system and method for interactive marketing to consumers and, more particularly, to a system and method for marketing merchandise to consumers in an interactive retail environment. The method includes detecting a disturbance in an area and sending information related to the disturbance to a back end merchandising system. The method further includes retrieving relevant information related to the detected disturbance from the back end merchandising system and displaying the relevant information on a display surface. |
| US08376225B1 |
Secure card
Systems and methods for monetary cards are described. The cards are free from personally identifiable data, e.g., no name or embossment. In an example, the card includes a first number that activates the card and a second number written to the card at activation away from the card manufacturer. This helps prevent theft at the manufacturer. This second account is a bearer account where anyone who knows the account number can withdraw the funds from the account. The account may be funded with either the account number or the authentication number. |
| US08376220B2 |
Automatic teller machine
An automatic teller machine includes a chassis, a user interface module; and a pair of sliding mechanisms. The user interface module is rotatably attached to the chassis. The pair of sliding mechanisms are attached to the chassis and the user interface. Each sliding mechanism includes a first rail and a second rail. The first rail is rotatably secured to the chassis. A second blocking member is located on the first rail. The second rail is rotatably secured to the user interface module and slidable on the first rail. A latch member with a latch portion is rotatably located on the second rail. The user interface module is rotatable between a closed position, where the latch portion is located away from the second blocking member, and an open position, where the latch portion engages with the second blocking member. |
| US08376218B2 |
Apparatus and method for dispersive fourier-transform imaging
A barcode reading apparatus and method in which the spectrum of a probe light is first Fourier-transformed into space, directed upon a barcode, and then Fourier-transformed converting the spectrally encoded barcode pattern to a time domain waveform. In one implementation, the Fourier transformation from the spectrum domain into a spatial domain is performed by a dispersive element, while the Fourier transformation from the spectrally encoded barcode pattern to a time domain waveform is performed by group-velocity dispersion (GVD). The temporally encoded barcode pattern is detected by a photodetector, digitized by a digitizer, and analyzed by a digital signal processor. The invention is applicable to a number of fields which involve the reading of one- and two-dimensional barcodes, displacement sensing, surface measurements, measurement of width and gap, flow cytometry, reading of optical media, presence or absence detection, and other related fields. |
| US08376216B2 |
Reader device with reading time counting unit
To improve convenience of a data carrier system, a cellular phone (30) which is carried by a user and includes an RFID communication unit (36) reading identification information of an RFID from the RFID in the vicinity in a non-contact state contains a user correlation unit (311) counting the number of times of reading with respect to identification information which have been read, selecting at least one carrier identification information from the identification information which have been read, and correlating the at least one carrier identification information with the user. |
| US08376215B2 |
Multiple punch and die assembly
A multiple punch and multiple die assembly has a workpiece protector which is a punch lifter that is operatively associated with each punch for supporting each of the punches in an inactive position as an active punch is moved by the ram to the active, i.e. operating position to thereby eliminate scoring or marking of the sheet material or other workpiece that is being punched. To eliminate the need for hand tools and hand assembly or disassembly, a manually moveable retainer on the punch assembly is provided that can be moved by hand between a punch-releasing and punch-retaining position for holding the punches within the multi-punch assembly during operation. To prevent stress fractures that formerly occurred in die carriers, support of each die is distributed between two different die components thereby reducing impact stress on the carrier as the ram drives the punch through the workpiece. |
| US08376213B2 |
Carrier with locking features
A carton for carrying a plurality of articles and a blank for forming the carton generally include a top panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a second side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a first bottom panel foldably connected to the first side panel, the first bottom panel comprising a plurality of female locking openings and having opening flaps adjacent the female locking openings. The opening flaps are foldably connected to the first bottom panel at respective first arcuate fold lines. A second bottom panel is foldably connected to the second side panel. The second bottom panel comprises a plurality of male locking projections. The male locking projections are foldably connected to the second bottom panel at respective second arcuate fold lines. |
| US08376211B2 |
Turbine element repair fixture
A blade processing fixture has first and second jaws. The second jaw is movable relative to the first jaw from a disengaged position for accepting a root of the blade. The blade is accepted in a receiving area between the first and second jaws. The second jaw is movable to an engaged position clamping the blade between the first and second jaws. A gas flow path extends from an inlet port to an outlet port. The outlet port is positioned to introduce gas to a blade inlet port when the blade is installed. |
| US08376210B2 |
Linear friction welder system and method
A linear friction welding system and method in one embodiment includes a first motor configured to rotate a first power shaft, a second motor configured to rotate a second power shaft, a memory including program instructions, and a controller operably connected to the first motor, the second motor, and the memory, and configured to execute the program instructions to identify a first current oscillation amplitude of a ram operably connected to the first power shaft and the second power shaft, determine a second desired oscillation amplitude for the ram, determine a minimum shift in relative angle between the first motor and the second motor to achieve the second desired oscillation amplitude, allocate the minimum shift in relative angle between the first motor and the second motor, and control the first motor and the second motor based upon the allocated minimum shift in relative angle. |
| US08376209B2 |
Non-destructive thermal conductivity detection of solder voids
Systems and methods can produce thermal images of the mounting of a thermally-enhanced integrated circuit (IC) upon a circuit board. The system includes a thermal imaging camera that is operable to image the thermal dissipation and/or conduction through the heat sink into a mounting pad on the substrate. In testing the thermally-enhanced IC, the substrate or IC is connected to a power source, and the IC is operated such that the IC begins to generate heat. As the heat is conducted or dissipated through the heat sink into the mounting pad, a thermal imaging camera can detect the heat conduction and/or dissipation through the heat sink into the substrate. If there are voids or other types of failures in the mounting of the IC, the thermal imaging camera can detect cooler or colder spots in the image. |
| US08376206B2 |
Cold weld
A cold weld is formed in a multilayer-material. A first pin is coupled to a first block. A second pin is coupled to a second block. The multilayer material is disposed between the first pin and the second pin. The first pin opposes the second pin. The multilayer material is held in the XY plane and floats in the Z axis. |
| US08376205B2 |
Exhaust deflector for pneumatic power tool
A pneumatic fastening tool may include a tool housing including a dispensing portion for dispensing a fastener, a handle portion and an inlet configured to receive input of compressed air. A cap assembly may include a cap housing having an opening and mounted to the tool housing. A deflector may be configured to direct exhausted air through an outlet in a first direction. The deflector may have a stem received in the opening. The stem may define a bore extending in a second direction that is distinct from the first direction. A locking member may extend at least partially in the bore and be configured to rotatably capture the deflector relative to the cap housing. |
| US08376203B2 |
Apparatus and method for rapid installation of hidden deck plank fasteners
An apparatus for installing a hidden fastener in the course of attaching a plank to a joist includes a power tool with a retainer for holding the hidden fastener. The hidden fastener is placed on the retainer so that an attachment opening formed through the hidden fastener is in registration with a bore formed in the retainer for receiving a securing member. The power tool is used to position the hidden fastener in engagement with the plank, and to drive a securing member from the bore of the retainer through the attachment opening of the hidden fastener. |
| US08376189B2 |
Dispensing machine valve and method
A one-way valve is connectable in fluid communication with a fluid-receiving chamber, such as a dilution chamber or a mixing chamber for diluting or mixing a perishable food product, such as a milk product or chocolate product, and forming a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween. The valve comprises a relatively rigid valve seat, and a relatively flexible valve member overlying the valve seat and forming an axially-elongated, normally-closed valve opening therebetween defining an inlet at one end of the valve seat, an outlet at an opposite end of the valve seat, and an axially-extending seal therebetween that forms a fluid-tight seal between the inlet and outlet of the normally-closed valve opening. An axially-extending valve body is radially spaced relative to the valve member and forms a space therebetween allowing fluid-flow therethrough for cleaning the valve and the fluid-receiving chamber. A seal is engageable with the fluid-receiving chamber and forms a substantially fluid-tight seal therebetween to seal the valve outlet and fluid-receiving chamber with respect to ambient atmosphere. The valve member is movable radially away from the valve seat in response to substance at the inlet to the valve opening exceeding a valve opening pressure to flow into the normally closed valve opening, through the outlet, and into the fluid-receiving chamber. |
| US08376187B2 |
Dispensing assembly having removably attachable accessories
The dispensing assembly includes a cartridge having at least two containers and accessories. The fastening area (6) of the cartridge (1) and the fastening areas (9) of the accessories (4) are configured such that the accessories are attachable to the cartridge by plugging them on without a twisting motion and removable therefrom by twisting them one relative to another. In a further developed embodiment, the parts comprise coding elements which serve as aligning means and for preventing that the accessory is plugged onto the cartridge in the wrong orientation. An assembly of this kind allows an easy attachment and removal of an accessory such as a mixer or a closure cap and can be produced inexpensively. |
| US08376186B2 |
Fluid dispenser device
A fluid dispenser device has a container filled with two concentric squeezeable tubes that has two concentric threaded outlets. The two threaded outlets are secured to an internal cap that has fluid passages for both outlets and external threaded sections for engaging the inner shell and an outer shell. The internal cap also has two barrier members on its outer walls that engage with the inner shell's sliders that releasably engage the inner shell in its open or closed positions. The inner shell threadingly engages a conduit unit that when lowered closes the fluid passages with projecting stubs and when raised opens those passages to allow dispensation from the container. The external cap has internal splines that engages the internal cap's external grooves. When the external cap is removed, the internal cap is rotated which in turn rotates and raises the conduit unit which opens the valves. When the external cap is secured and rotated onto the internal cap's threads, the inner shell rotates which in turn lowers the conduit unit to close the valves. |
| US08376185B2 |
System and method for fraud detection and shut-off at a fuel dispenser
A system and method of detecting fuel theft at a fuel dispenser. The dispenser has a primary flow meter, an auxiliary flow detection device positioned at an entrance of a dispenser, and an auxiliary dispenser shutoff system. A rate of flow through the primary flow meter and a rate of flow through the auxiliary flow detection device are calculated. The primary flow meter rate of flow and the auxiliary flow detection device rate of flow are compared. If the difference exceeds a threshold, a shutoff signal is provided to the auxiliary dispenser shutoff system to stop fuel flow through the dispenser. |
| US08376180B2 |
Venting tubing system for a fuel tank
A fuel tank comprising at least one fuel vapor accessory articulately coupled with a fuel tubing extending within the fuel tank. The tubing extends from a field end of the tank towards an outlet end thereof, and is formed with at least one aperture between the field end and the outlet end. The fuel vapor accessory is disposed between the field end and the outlet end. The tubing is secured to an inside upper wall of the fuel tank. |
| US08376179B2 |
Container and closure
An improved container provides a container body and a closure. In some embodiments, a scooping utensil retainer is disposed on the closure. The scooping utensil retainer includes opposing flanges protruding from the closure surface. A flange rib protrudes from the first flange into the flange gap, extending from the closure surface to the distal end of the flange. A tapered retainer gap is provided between flanges for resiliently clamping the handle of a scooping utensil. In some embodiments, the closure can include an annular ridge shaped for engaging a downwardly extending skirt on a like container when two like containers are vertically stacked. In some embodiments the container body includes an in-mold label affixed to a substantially straight side wall, the in-mold label covering at least about 95% of the exterior surface area of the container body. |
| US08376160B2 |
Key retainer for railway car coupler
A key retainer for retaining a draft key in the key slot of a railway car yoke is mounted on the outside of the sill of a railway car. Mounting the key retainer with a retainer key system on the outside of the sill, and aligned with the sill cutout, permits ease of visual inspection of the retainer from outside the railway car, and allows for repair of the key retainer without disassembling the coupler from the yoke, or the yoke from the railway car. |
| US08376159B2 |
Device for damping tractive and compressive forces
The invention relates to a device for damping tractive and compressive forces which damps forces acting in both the tractive and compressive directions over a wide range, the device operating to be free of wear and having small overall length. The device has a damping system held in a housing and which has a resilient unit and a hydraulic damping arrangement, and a piston rod which is displaceable in the longitudinal direction relative to the housing of the damping system. Formed in an end region of the piston rod is a piston head which is held in a first hydraulic chamber of the hydraulic damping arrangement to be displaceable. If there is longitudinal movement of the piston head relative to the first hydraulic chamber, hydraulic fluid flows in a throttled manner, via a transfer-flow system, to a second hydraulic chamber of the hydraulic damping arrangement. |
| US08376158B2 |
Heavy construction installation method
There is provided a heavy construction installation method which does not need a secondarily transport in a construction field even if an installation position of a heavy construction is apart from a berthing position of a transport ship. A movable area where a ground plane is reinforced so that a heavy hoisting machine for installing a heavy construction in a building is movable is constructed so as to include a circle drawn around an installation position in the building with a maximum operating radius of the heavy hoisting machine relative to a weight of the heavy construction being as a radius, and a circle drawn around a loaded position of the heavy construction at a transport ship coming alongside a landing place with the maximum operating radius being as a radius. |
| US08376157B2 |
Scalable shelving system
A shelving system includes a plurality of vertical posts and horizontal traverses. The horizontal traverses are coupled to the vertical posts by means of a bifurcated collar that are placed on each vertical post. Each horizontal traverse includes an end piece which is configured to couple to both halves of the bifurcated collar. Each half of the bifurcated collar comprises a wedge shaped design such that when a load is placed on the traverse, forces are applied to the bifurcated collar that squeezes each half of the collar together more tightly around the vertical post. The traverses may be coupled to one or both sides of the vertical post to allow the shelving system to be extended as far as the user desires in any lateral direction. The shelving system may also be extended in a perpendicular or other angular direction by means of a wedge shaped corner connector. |
| US08376154B2 |
Modular gravity actuated rolling shelving assembly
A shelving assembly comprises a unit that comprises a base plate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The base plate has an integral one-piece configuration including a plurality of strengthening or reinforcing vertical and/or horizontal ribs disposed on the second side. A plurality of securing members are disposed in a parallel relationship on the first side. Each of the plurality of securing members has a plurality of snap fit openings. A plurality of rollers that each comprises a centrally disposed cylindrical portion and a pair of connection rods extending from opposite ends of the cylindrical portion. The connection rods are removably and fixedly insertable into a pair of oppositely disposed snap fit openings of adjacent securing members, thereby forming a row of rollers disposed on the base plate. |
| US08376153B1 |
Tool rack
A tool rack includes a base, two side boards and a frame. The base includes multiple blocks and is located between the two side boards. Each side board has an elongate slot and two ridges between which a space is defined. The elongate slot has a first recess defined in the top inner end thereof and the first recess is located higher than a top of one of the ridges. A second recess is defined in the bottom inner end of the elongate slot. The frame has multiple extensions and tools are positioned between the blocks and the extensions. Two side links extend from two ends of the frame. When the frame is mounted to the base, the side links are slidably engaged with the spaces of the side boards. The side links each have a pivot which is movably engaged with the elongate slot and each of the recesses. |
| US08376150B2 |
Theft deterrent system
Described herein is technology for, among other things, a theft deterrent apparatus for cooperation with an elongate member attached to and extending outwardly from a forward-facing side of an article display panel. The apparatus includes a housing defining an internal chamber. The housing includes a first aperture passing through the housing into the internal chamber for receiving the elongate member, a second aperture for receiving a magnetic key, and a locking member that has a magnetic portion and is movably disposed within the internal chamber. The locking member is adapted to selectively: maintain the apparatus in locked and unlocked configurations in which the locking member respectively prevents or permits the elongate member from being at least partially withdrawn from the first aperture. Whether the locking member maintains the apparatus in the locked or unlocked configuration depends on whether or not the magnetic key is inserted into the second aperture. |
| US08376149B2 |
Crosslinked polymer film bearing ionic groupings
The invention relates to the preparation of a crosslinked polymeric film bearing ionic groupings.The process consists in extruding a material comprising at least one prepolymer, in polymerizing said material after extrusion, and in subjecting the extruded material to a chemical reaction for grafting ionic groupings. The prepolymer comprises repeating units each comprising at least one aromatic group GA and at least one functional group GF; it bears at least one group GP which is polymerizable thermally at a temperature greater than the extrusion temperature, or photochemically, and also at least one reactive group GR which allows the grafting of ionic groupings.The films are useful as a membrane for fuel cells or electrodialysis, as an electrolyte of a lithium battery, of a supercapacitor or of an electrochromic device, or as an ion exchange membrane. |
| US08376125B2 |
Apparatus for stacking and reclaiming material
A mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus includes a moveable bridge, a moveable hopper and a moveable tripper. The moveable bridge has a first end, a second end, and at least one intermediate portion between the first and second ends. The moveable hopper is connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable hopper is moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper is also connected to the moveable bridge. The moveable tripper being moveable relative to the moveable bridge along at least a portion of the moveable bridge. A system is also disclosed that includes at least one mobile stacking and reclaiming apparatus adjacent to at least one stacking overland conveyor configured to convey material for stacking material and at least one reclaiming overland conveyor configured to convey material for reclaiming material. A method of providing such systems is also disclosed. |
| US08376124B1 |
Automated conveyor human transport deep cleaning system
A system for cleaning conveyor human transports including a first plurality of elongate brushes, each extending along a longitudinal axis, at least one drive motor, a second plurality of endless resilient tensionable belts arranged to be driven by the drive motor intermittently in a plurality of planes, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the first plurality of elongate brushes, a third plurality of brush mounting elements arranged to mount each of the first plurality of elongate brushes onto the second plurality of endless resilient tensionable belts for intermittent motion generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the first plurality of elongate brushes and a tensioning assembly operative to maintain the second plurality of endless resilient tensionable belts under tension at least during the motion. |
| US08376122B2 |
Stop device
This invention relates to a stop device including a swinging unit which includes a workpiece abutment portion which stops a workpiece being conveyed by abutting against the workpiece, and is pivotal between an abutment position and a retraction position, an elastic member for the swinging unit which gives a biasing force to the swinging unit, an electromotive drive unit including a movable portion and a driving portion, and a pivot restricting member which performs pivot restriction of the swinging unit by moving to engage with the swinging unit in response to movement of the movable portion and releases the pivot restriction. |
| US08376121B2 |
Conveyor belt system with lane divider
A system for dividing a flow of objects into two or more lanes of object flow, the system comprising a first conveyor configured to transport a plurality of objects, the conveyor having a transportation plane and plurality of substantially planar regions elevated above and substantially parallel to the transportation plane, the plurality of substantially planar regions each being configured to hold at least one of the plurality of objects being transported; a second conveyor substantially adjacent to the first conveyor; and a guide mounted above the transportation plane and the planar regions of the first conveyor, the guide configured to divert an object positioned on one of the substantially planar regions elevated above the transportation plane onto the second conveyor. |
| US08376118B2 |
Matrix sorter system
A matrix conveying system for intended use in sorting articles and related methods of conveying and sorting articles are disclosed. In one embodiment, the matrix system comprises a plurality of first endless belt or chain conveyors extending in a first direction and a plurality of second conveyors extending in a second direction, each intersecting the plurality of first conveyors. The system may be used to sort articles delivered from one or more storage locations for distribution, or may instead be used to sort articles for delivery to one or more storage locations. In another embodiment, the system comprises a plurality of conveyors arranged in three different layers. |
| US08376110B2 |
Bicycle hub assembly
A hub shell of a hub assembly is rotatable about a fixed hub shaft. A power transmitting member is disposed within the hub shell. A pawl supporting member has at least one pawl member movable between an active position where the pawl member allows transmission of rotary power from the hub shell to the power transmitting member and an inactive position decoupling the pawl from one of the power transmitting member and the hub shell. A one way roller clutch assembly is coupled between the power transmitting member and the hub shell and is movable between an active position where the roller clutch assembly couples the power transmitting member to the hub shell to transmit rotary power from the power transmitting member to the hub shell and an inactive position decoupling the power transmitting member from the hub shell. |
| US08376107B2 |
Freewheel arrangement, in particular for a crank-CVT
A freewheel arrangement, in particular for a crank-CVT, which has an inner ring, an outer ring, which can be rotated relative to the inner ring in at least one direction of rotation and which is arranged radially around the inner ring, several cam-shaped clamping elements, which have a foot area and a head area and are arranged between the inner ring and the outer ring in a cage and can be acted on in the direction of the inner ring by a radially inwardly directed spring force of a spring. The spring is a double-acting torsion spring, which simultaneously acts on the head area and the foot area of adjacent clamping elements and presses the clamping elements radially inward. |
| US08376105B2 |
Lock-up clutch mechanism
Disclosed is a lock-up clutch mechanism which is simple in construction but can increase the rigidity and the heat capacity of the lock-up piston, can lighten the lock-up piston, can suppress the temperature of a second sliding surface from being raised to enhance the heat resistance of the second friction member. The lock-up clutch mechanism is provided with a connecting member for connecting a lock-up piston with a center plate of a damper mechanism. The connecting member has a drum portion extending in the axial direction of an input shaft and splined to the radially outer peripheral portion of a center plate, and a hollow disc plate portion integrally connected with the axial end portion of the drum portion and radially inwardly extending from the axial end portion of the drum portion. The hollow disc plate portion is further in face-to-face relationship with the sliding surface of the lock-up piston across the lock-up piston. |
| US08376100B2 |
Regenerative shock absorber
Regenerative shock absorber. A piston is disposed for reciprocating motion within a cylinder as a vehicle's suspension system deflects. Hydraulic fluid passes through an hydraulic motor to turn its shaft. The hydraulic motor shaft is connected to an electric generator to generate electricity. Flow characteristics of hydraulic circuits are selected to provide suspension system damping for appropriate wheel control. |
| US08376099B2 |
Volume compensation accumulator apparatus and suspension system using the same
A volume compensation accumulator apparatus connected to a conduit connecting hydraulic cylinders in a suspension system. The volume compensation accumulator apparatus includes an arrangement of the two orifice plates in series in a spaced-apart relation, which eliminates the necessity of reducing the diameters of the orifices while providing the same orifice characteristic as that of an orifice having a smaller diameter, thereby making the boring process of the orifice easy, and reducing clogging of the orifices with foreign objects. |
| US08376097B2 |
Backing for brake devices, especially drum brakes, backing/friction lining unit and backing support of a pressing device
A brake pad backing (1) for a drum brake has a backing surface (2) that receives at least one friction pad (3). At least one opening (4, 4″) arranged inside the backing surface (2) is produced by shaping a material section (5, 5′) of the brake pad backing (1) so that when the friction pad (3) is pressed onto the backing surface (2), the material section (5, 5′), together with the opening (4, 4′), forms an impression cavity (6). The material section (5, 5′) projects from the brake pad backing (1) at one or more prescribed angles α in the pressing direction (7). In addition, a lateral guide (20) to guide the brake pad backing plate (1) in the housing of the brake assembly such as, for example, the brake drum, may be formed by bending or folding the edge (8) of the brake pad backing plate (1). The bent edge (8) is provided on several edge sections (11, 12, 13) of the appertaining lengthwise side (10) of the brake pad backing plate (1) that lie to the side of the backing surface (2) for the friction pad (3). |
| US08376096B2 |
Roller bearing having a brake device
A roller bearing, which has a brake device made of outer and inner bearing rings, between which rollers roll on corresponding rings, a displaceable braking element connected to one of the bearing rings pressed against an associated opposite surface connected to the other bearing ring to generate a braking effect due to a frictional fit, which can be neutralized by an electromagnet. The electromagnet is made of one of the hearing rings as a soft iron core, and a coil encompassing the ring. A ferromagnetic armature plate is connected to one of the bearing rings and is pressed towards a pressure plate, which is connected to the other bearing ring. At least one disc is disposed between the armature plate and pressure plate. The disc is operationally connected to brake linings on both sides, and each have a form-fit connection to one of the bearing rings by guide pins. |
| US08376094B2 |
Electromechanical linear-motion actuator and electromechanical brake system
An electromechanical linear-motion actuator includes a rotary shaft, a stationary outer race member, and planetary rollers between the rotary shaft and the outer race member to rotate about their own axes and revolve around the rotary shaft axis. A helical rib is on the radially inner surface of the outer race member or the radially outer surface of the rotary shaft. A helical groove or circumferential grooves are formed in a radially outer surface of each of the planetary rollers in which the helical rib is engaged. A planetary carrier axially faces the planetary rollers, and thrust ball bearings are between the planetary carrier and the respective planetary rollers 16 for preventing rotation of the respective planetary rollers 16 from being transmitted to the planetary carrier 17. Each of the thrust ball bearings comprises a raceway formed on an axial end surface of the corresponding planetary roller. |
| US08376091B2 |
Floating-disk type brake system
A floating-disk type brake system that includes floating disk assemblies placed respectively in spaces between a rotating member, such as a wheel of a transportation machine or a rotating shaft of a machine tool, and a stationary member to reduce differences in the rotating speed of adjacent sliding surfaces of the floating disk assemblies in frictional sliding engagement. The floating-disk type brake system includes a first floating disk assembly and a first disk assembly that are arranged between the ring gear and the planet carrier of a planetary gear built in a transmission or the like, and the first floating disk assembly and the first disk assembly are pressed together into frictional engagement to brake a rotating shaft. |
| US08376088B2 |
Twin lubrication tank filling system
A twin lubrication oil tank filling system with a single oil fill port that prevents overfilling of both a primary oil tank and a secondary oil with a gravity fill system by directing oil primarily into the secondary oil tank by means of a special oil diverter, a float valve for the secondary oil tank that closes when the oil level in the secondary tank reaches a full level to cause additional oil flow to pour into the primary oil tank and a float valve for the primary oil tank that closes when the oil level in the primary tank reaches a full level. |
| US08376082B2 |
Triangular inflatable evacuation slide
An inflatable evacuation slide, substantially triangular in cross-section, includes a base and lateral sides. The sides are formed from interlocking components, so that the slide is straight, when deployed. The inflatable evacuation slide may be used, for example, as a marine evacuation slide. |
| US08376079B2 |
Motorcycle
In a motorcycle in which a rear fork is swingably provided on a vehicle body frame with a power unit, a rear wheel is provided at a rear end of the rear fork, a drive shaft is provided between a gear case on a lateral side of the rear wheel and an output shaft of the power unit, and output power of the power unit is transmitted to the rear wheel through the drive shaft and the gear case. The rear fork extends along a lateral side of the rear wheel and has an arm through which the drive shaft passes. The arm has a tubular base part with a closed cross section, and a rear part with an open cross section through which the drive shaft passes. The base part has a thick-walled area at the rear end of the base part. |
| US08376073B2 |
Vehicle radiator structure
A vehicle radiator structure includes a radiator core, a first fluid tank, a second fluid tank, a first lift assist contact member and a second lift assist contact member. The radiator core has a cooling fin portion. The first and second fluid tanks are fluidly coupled to the radiator core. The first lift assist contact member extends from the first fluid tank with at least a portion of the first lift assist contact member being disposed directly vertically beneath the first fluid tank in a vehicle installed position of the vehicle radiator structure. The second lift assist contact member is separate and spaced apart from the first lift assist contact member, and extends from the second fluid tank with at least a portion of the second lift assist contact member being in lateral alignment with the first lift assist contact member and the radiator core. |
| US08376072B2 |
Molded motor and electric vehicle
A molded motor includes a ring-shaped stator and a rotor disposed inside the stator. The stator has teeth, insulators surrounding the teeth, coils wound around the insulators, and a molded part molding the teeth, insulators and coils. The insulators are partially exposed from the molded part. |
| US08376069B2 |
Power conversion apparatus and electric vehicle
The metallic case of a power conversion apparatus includes a casing having a side wall, as well as an upper case and a lower case, a first area being formed between a cooling jacket provided at the inner periphery of the side wall and the lower case, the metal base plate dividing the first area between the cooling jacket and the upper case into a lower side second area and an upper side third area, first and second power modules being fastened to a top surface and a capacitor module being provided in the first area, driving circuits that drive inverter circuits of the power modules respectively being provided in the second area, and a control circuit that controls the driver circuits being provided in the third area. |
| US08376066B2 |
Combination whipstock and completion deflector
Assemblies can be disposed in a subterranean bore. An assembly can include a surface that can divert a cutting tool for creating a branch wellbore and that can divert a completion component for completing the branch wellbore without requiring the assembly or part of the assembly from being removed from a parent wellbore prior to the completion component being diverted. |
| US08376064B1 |
Quick release head assembly on cotton candy machine
An apparatus and method for quick release of a spinner head assembly of a cotton candy machine. The spinner head is snap-fit to the rotational output shaft of the motor of the cotton candy machine to prevent longitudinal separation between the two during operation. Intermeshing portions between the spinner head and the output shaft are configured to translate rotational torque between the two and thus translate rotational torque of the output shaft of the motor to the spinner head. Quick release of the head is possible by pulling on the head along the rotational axis of the output shaft to overcome the snap-fit. This allows longitudinal separation of the spinner head and disengages the intermeshing portions for complete removal of the head. Reattachment is possible by snap-fitting connection between head and output shaft. |
| US08376062B2 |
Soil cultivation device
A soil cultivation device drivable in a displacement direction relative to the soil and designed to break up sub-soil. The device has a chassis or frame, a row of support arms and a drive unit, respective cutting tool pivot units pivotally hinged on the support arms to pivot relative to the arms about a second pivoting axis, permitting a cutting tool fixed on the cutting tool pivot units to pierce the soil and the cutting tool pivot units to be pivoted in relation to the support arms. In addition, the device has at least one gear mechanism, which transmits the relative displacement of the cutting tool pivot unit and the support arm, which at least occurs when the cutting tool has pierced the soil and the soil cultivation device is traveling onwards in the displacement direction, to at least one unit not displaced up and down with the support arm. |
| US08376061B2 |
Fire protection sprinkler
A fire protection sprinkler is provided with a sprinkler body having a fluid passage defining an inlet end and an outlet end. A plug member is disposed in the fluid passage and a heat responsive unit releasable secures the plug member and the passage. A deflector is mounted to frame arms extending from the sprinkler body and the deflector includes a peripheral edge including a plurality of slots extending radially inward from the peripheral edge. At least two of the plurality of slots have a first outer portion having a first diameter and a second intermediate portion adjacent the first outer portion and having a second diameter less than the first diameter. A third inner portion extends radially inward from the second intermediate portion and has a third diameter greater than the second diameter. The deflector design is utilized for providing a desired water distribution pattern. |
| US08376060B2 |
Adjustable escutcheon assembly for a sprinkler
An adjustable escutcheon assembly as provided for mounting a sprinkler in a sloped ceiling so that the sprinkler can be mounted parallel to the ceiling and with a refined appearance. |
| US08376057B2 |
Tubing hanger seal
A wellhead assembly including a wellhead housing. The wellhead housing comprises a throughbore having a recessed sealing area and a tubing hanger positioned in the throughbore. A seal is positioned between the wellhead housing and the tubing hanger, the seal being positioned so as to form a gap between the seal and the wellhead housing. The wellhead assembly can further include a seal energizer capable of moving relative to the seal in a manner that forces the seal against the wellhead housing to bridge the gap. A method of installing a tubing hanger into a throughbore of a wellhead housing is also disclosed. |
| US08376048B2 |
Offshore installation attachment system
A method of lifting at least a portion of an attachment system to and from a predetermined location comprises providing an attachment system comprising a support member, a socket member, and a locking member, the support member located at the predetermined location and defining an indentation formed therein, the socket member defining a cavity formed therein, placing the socket member in the indentation, placing the locking member in the cavity, locking the locking member in the socket member, and lifting the locked socket member and locking member from the support member and to the predetermined location. |
| US08376047B2 |
Variable flow restrictor for use in a subterranean well
A variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber through which a fluid composition flows, the chamber having at least one inlet, an outlet, and at least one structure spirally oriented relative to the outlet, whereby the structure induces spiral flow of the fluid composition about the outlet. Another variable flow resistance system for use in a subterranean well can include a flow chamber including an outlet, at least one structure which induces spiral flow of a fluid composition about the outlet, and at least one other structure which impedes a change in direction of flow of the fluid composition radially toward the outlet. |
| US08376044B2 |
Plug device
A plug device for closing of a pipe bore where the plug comprises an exterior sleeve formed in a flexible material, and a setting mechanism, and where the setting mechanism comprises wedges which between their passive position and their active position are displaced along a curved path. |
| US08376042B2 |
Installing an expandable tubular in a subsea wellbore
A method and vessel for installing an expandable tubular in a subsea wellbore, wherein said expandable tubular is assembled from expandable tubular segments, said expandable tubular being adapted to be expanded diametrically when positioned in said wellbore by means of expansion tooling, wherein a multitude of expandable tubular segments are provided, and wherein use is made of a surface vessel, said vessel comprising: at least one assembly station adapted for the assembly of at least one intermediate tubular assembly by interconnection of multiple expandable tubular segments, an intermediate tubular assembly suspension storage device adapted for storage of one or more intermediate tubular assemblies, said intermediate tubular assemblies being suspended from the vessel into the water by said storage device, a guide and handling system for intermediate tubular assemblies, said guide and handling system having an entry and an exit, said entry being spaced from said exit, the entry being arranged and adapted to receive a suspended intermediate tubular assembly from the storage device, the system being adapted for the upward feeding of said intermediate tubular assembly from the entry towards a top of the system, and then downwards to the exit, said system further being adapted for launching the intermediate tubular assembly downward from said exit into the water towards and into the wellbore, a connecting station adapted for connecting an intermediate tubular assembly to another intermediate tubular assembly. |
| US08376041B2 |
Apparatus and method for engaging a tubular
An apparatus for engaging with an outside diameter of a tubular comprises a device body having an internal surface that defines an internal diameter in a first position and allowing the tubular to pass therethrough and an actuator operable to move the internal surface of the device body from the first position to a second position, the second position defining an internal diameter less than the first position internal diameter. The internal surface of the device body is sized with a predetermined grip length for engaging with the outside diameter of the tubular. The grip length is determined by a function of the outside diameter of the tubular and the coefficient of friction between of the outside diameter of the tubular and the interior surface of the device body and the device body is operable to engage with a tubular having a predetermined range of outside diameters. |
| US08376039B2 |
Method and system for accessing subterranean deposits from the surface and tools therefor
According to one embodiment, a system for accessing a subterranean zone from the surface includes a well bore extending from the surface to the subterranean zone, and a well bore pattern connected to the junction and operable to drain fluid from a region of the subterranean zone to the junction. |
| US08376038B2 |
Slurry outlet in a gravel packing assembly
An outlet member is preferably made from a hardened material and is cut from a tubular shape at an angle of preferably 5 degrees. At its upper end it is cut away so that slurry flow can exit ports in a hardened sleeve and impinge directly onto the upstream portion of the insert. The impingement changes the flow stream angle as the flow continues through a fully tubular middle segment of the insert that leads out to an elongated exit ramp whose downstream end sits preferably flush with the outer housing wall so as to protect the insert from mechanical shocks and retain the insert axially when slurry flows through it. Other external details aid in fixation when in use. |
| US08376033B2 |
Heat exchanger comprising tubes with grooved fins
Tube heat exchanger comprising finned tubes, wherein the tubes extend in a certain axial direction and are provided with heat exchange fins. Each fin has a heat exchange surface surrounding a tube that extends in a certain radial direction in relation to the tube and which is relief structured to form grooves spaced apart from one another in said radial direction. The grooves of a fin have different dimensions that decrease on moving away from the tube in said radial direction so as to form a guide for a fluid around the tube. |
| US08376028B2 |
Steel continuous casting method
A steel continuous casting method using a continuous caster that includes a pair of upper magnetic poles and a pair of lower magnetic poles is disclosed. The method comprises braking a molten steel flow with the DC magnetic fields respectively applied to the pair of upper magnetic poles and the pair of lower magnetic poles while stirring a molten steel with an AC magnetic field simultaneously applied to the pair of upper magnetic poles, the strength of an AC magnetic field applied to the upper magnetic poles is set within the range of 0.060 to 0.090 T and the strengths of DC magnetic fields applied to the upper and lower magnetic poles are controlled within particular ranges in accordance with the width of the slab to be cast and the casting speed. |
| US08376027B2 |
Core for thin-wall hollow casting and thin-wall hollow casting produced by production method employing it
It is a technical common knowledge that a chaplet used in casting of a hollow casting is fusion-bonded with the melt and is incorporated into the casting. However, the adhesion between the chaplet and the casting body is not necessarily satisfactory, thereby incurring the strength reduction of a thin-wall hollow casting. A core for a thin-wall hollow casting according to the present invention is provided with a chaplet mounted thereon. The chaplet has arcuate portion 2 with a gap 5 and a plurality of projections 4 from an outer peripheral of the arcuate portion and is in contact with an inner wall 7 of a mold. The entire arcuate portion of the chaplet is included in a groove 6 formed around an outer peripheral portion of the core body. Only the projections 4 of the chaplet protrude from the core body, when the chaplet is inserted in the groove. |
| US08376024B1 |
Foundry mold insulating coating
Tubular metal articles such as pipe and cylinder liners are produced by centrifugal casting on a permanent metal mold coated by refractory glass on the active surface. A coating suspension mix is evenly distributed onto the mold to form a uniform layer of insulation on the surface of the mold. The material for the coating comprises of essentially a waterborne suspension mix of glass particles. The suspension is given time to dry on the surface of the mold. The glass particles dispersed in the suspension are both non-crystalline and nonporous. The glass particles in the suspension and forming the coating are not dissolved and do not chemically attract the polar water molecule or cause it to bond to the surface of glass in the suspension or to the mold active surface. Articles cast as such are smooth surfaced and require only limited machining. The coating provides thermal protection to the mold, but more importantly, the water in the suspension vaporizes quickly on a warm mold because the water is not attracted or bonded to the refractory glass particles. |
| US08376022B2 |
Loop cord tension device for window coverings
A loop cord tension device assembly includes a housing, a spring member connected to the housing, a loop cord retention member connected to the housing, and a locking body connected to the spring member. The loop cord retention member has a channel sized and configured to receive a portion of a looped cord. The locking body is moveable from a locked position to an unlocked position. The portion of the loop cord received within the channel of the loop cord retention member is not rotatable when the locking body is in the locked position and the portion of the loop cord received within the channel of the loop cord retention member is rotatable when the locking body is in the unlocked position. The loop cord tension device assembly may be connected to the looped cord of a window covering and mounted to a structure to improve child safety. |
| US08376021B2 |
Component for producing a sectional door panel, shell for such a component, reinforcement strut for such a component, sectional door panel having such a component, and sectional door having a corresponding sectional door panel
A structural element for the fabrication of a panel of a sectional door, which is movable between a closed and an open position along a predetermined pathway. The sectional door possesses a shell, generally of metal, having two mutually parallel sides, bent back on themselves, thus essentially creating structural elements aligned somewhat perpendicularly to the predetermined pathway. When in the closed position, the shell is characterized by forming an outer door surface which is external to the space to be closed, and forming an internal door surface opposed thereto. |
| US08376020B2 |
Folding partitions and partition systems having adjoining panels and related methods
Movable partitions and partition systems include a sheet of interconnected panels configured to fold in an accordion fashion. At least two of the interconnected panels have first and second lateral ends extending between a top edge and a bottom edge of the panels. The lateral ends may comprise generally cylindrical structures having openings comprising gaps between lateral edges of the respective panel and a first major surface of the respective panel. The first lateral end of one panel may be engaged with the second lateral end of another panel of the at least two panels. The lateral edges may be enlarged. The at least two panels can extend to a fully extended state in which they are coplanar. Methods of forming movable partitions and partition systems include forming and interconnecting such panels. Methods of repairing movable partitions and partition systems include disengaging such panels by applying lateral forces therebetween. |
| US08376015B2 |
Hand-held labeler with improved label roll lift mechanism
A hand-held labeler is described with a casing having an upper opening in which a label roll is rotary-mounted on a holder that can be moved up and down. A cap is hinged on the casing at the upper opening. When the cap is closed, it fully surrounds the label roll. The cap is coupled with the holder by a link guide in such a way that, by manually swinging the cap, the holder can be moved out of the opening and into the opening while the spacing between the cap and a label roll seated on the holder can be varied. When the cap is fully opened, the label roll is exposed and can easily be taken off the holder or attached to the holder. |
| US08376014B2 |
Corrugator having multiple corrugation roller sets
A corrugator includes a chassis, which is composed of two opposite and spaced primary wall panels; a rotary main shaft, which is rotatably mounted between the two primary wall panels of the chassis and has opposite ends respectively coupled to roller support seats; two corrugation roller sets, which are detachably mounted to the two roller support seats and each including two detachable secondary wall panels; and a hold-down roller, which is mounted to the chassis at a location close to one of the corrugation roller sets. With the multiple sets of corrugation rollers mounted in the corrugator, the corrugator allows a user to select and manufacture corrugator boards of different specifications. |
| US08376013B2 |
Plasmonic assisted systems and methods for interior energy-activation from an exterior source
A method and a system for producing a change in a medium disposed in an artificial container. The method places in a vicinity of the medium at least one of a plasmonics agent and an energy modulation agent. The method applies an initiation energy through the artificial container to the medium. The initiation energy interacts with the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent to directly or indirectly produce the change in the medium. The system includes an initiation energy source configured to apply an initiation energy to the medium to activate the plasmonics agent or the energy modulation agent. |
| US08376006B2 |
Tire noise reduction device and pneumatic tire provided with the same
A tire noise reduction device including a noise absorbing member made from a porous material that is formed into a band, the band being disposed along a tire circumferential direction on an inner surface of a tread portion of a pneumatic tire, wherein the noise absorbing member is wound so as to be laminated with two layers or more on at least a part of the tire circumferential direction to form a circular body, a crossing section where an inside layer and an outside layer of the noise absorbing member interchange is provided in at least one location on a periphery of the circular body, and the ends of the longitudinal direction of the noise absorbing member are disposed inward of the outermost layer of the noise absorbing member. |
| US08376003B2 |
Ready to drink container with nipple and penetrable and resealable portion, and related method
A container is provided for storing a product, such as a fat containing liquid product, and includes a body defining a chamber for receiving the product; and a container closure including a sealing portion for sealing the product within the chamber. The container closure includes a member forming a substantially fluid-tight seal between the container closure and the body; a nipple in fluid communication with the chamber that seals the chamber with respect to the ambient atmosphere during storage of the product in the chamber and that can be opened to dispense product from the chamber therethrough; and a needle penetrable and laser resealable portion that is penetrable by the needle for aseptically filling the chamber with the product, and that is thermally resealable by the application of laser radiation thereto to seal the product within the chamber. |
| US08376002B2 |
Apparatus for filling tube-shaped or bag-shaped packaging
In the case of an apparatus for filling tubular or bag-shaped packagings with a paste-like product, said apparatus including a fill pipe (1) and a holder for a casing brake that is arranged at the fill pipe (1), the pull-off movement is effected by means of a pivoting and pulling movement when the fill pipe (5) is pivoted away. This means that the casing brake is able to assume three sturdy positions in relation to the fill pipe (5) whilst not taking up much space and is able to be removed from the pipe (5) in a simple manner for changing a packaging tube. |
| US08375997B2 |
Pasting apparatus and method
An apparatus and method operations are provided for battery plate fabrication, in particular for applying paste to battery plate grids. A conveyer-type pasting machine includes a conveyer belt for moving battery plate grids under a new type of paste dispensing hopper, which includes closely spaced knurled rollers and an angled paste deflector member, which cooperate to generate a pressurized stream of paste for extrusion thru the battery plate grid. The apparatus also includes a specialized grid support sheet that also enables a consistent layer of paste to be applied to both exterior sides of a manufactured battery plate grid by enabling application of paste to one side of the grid and facilitating transmission of the paste through to and past the opposite, exterior side of the grid. |
| US08375992B2 |
Adjustable pressure control valves
A solenoid operated valve and method of assembly characterized by a threaded connection between the pole piece (69) and the cage (11), the threaded connection (75) including a first threaded connecting portion fixed in relation to the pole piece and a second threaded connecting portion fixed in relation to the cage and in threaded engagement with the first threaded portion such that relative rotation of the first and second threaded portions would vary the axial spacing between the proximal end of the pole piece and the valve seat (38) over a range of adjustment; and an anti-rotation device interposed between the first and second threaded connecting portions for locking the first and second threaded connecting portions against relative rotation to fix the axial spacing between the proximal end of the pole piece and the valve seat within such range of adjustment, which axial spacing regulates the maximum pressure that can be supplied to the control port (25). |
| US08375988B2 |
Fuel tank assembly and baffle device
A baffle device, configured to be disposed near an outlet of a fuel tank, includes a fitting having an aperture therethrough and a first baffle. The first baffle includes a passageway in fluid communication with the aperture and a first baffle aperture configured to permit entry of fuel vapor into the passageway and exit of fuel vapor from the passageway. The baffle device also includes a second baffle overlying at least a portion of the first baffle aperture. |
| US08375985B2 |
Solenoid valve for brake system
A solenoid valve for a brake system capable of being easily manufactured with reduced manufacturing costs is disclosed. A valve seat member has an inner passage formed through the valve seat member in a longitudinal direction thereof, an outer passage formed on an outer surface of the valve seat member in the longitudinal direction, and a seat portion formed with a first orifice above the inner passage. The seat portion is formed unitarily with the valve seat member. A sleeve is coupled on the outer surface of the valve seat member. The sleeve has a flange portion to be fixed to a modulator block. A valve core is coupled to a portion of the sleeve, opposite to the flange portion. An armature is slidably mounted in the sleeve. The armature has an opening/closing portion to open or close the first orifice. A restoring spring presses the armature toward the first orifice. |
| US08375974B2 |
Temperature controlling device
A temperature controlling device contains a base including a top wall and a peripheral wall; the top wall including a first hole and a second hole; a temperature balance valve retained in the base and including a first inlet, a second inlet, a first outlet, and a second outlet; a lower ceramic member installed on the top wall and including a second cavity, a first orifice, and a second orifice to flow the hot water; an upper ceramic member fixed on a top end of the lower ceramic member and including a third cavity; the third cavity including a close face; a control shaft including an extension, a radial extending disc, and a forcing end disposed on a top end thereof to input a rotating power; a housing served to cover the base, between the housing and the base being defined a receiving space, and the housing includes an aperture. |
| US08375973B2 |
One-piece metal orifice tube and solenoid valve including a one-piece metal orifice tube
A one-piece metal orifice tube (130) for use in a solenoid valve (100) is provided according to the invention. The one-piece, metal orifice tube includes a metal tube portion (131) including a proximal end (140) and a distal end (142), with the distal end being adapted to extend into an electromagnet bore (103) of an electromagnet (102) of the solenoid valve. The one-piece metal orifice tube further includes an orifice end (132) formed in the proximal end (140). The orifice end includes an orifice (133) that is smaller in diameter than a tube inside diameter D of the metal tube portion and the metal tube portion is adapted to slidably receive at least a portion of an armature (105) of a solenoid valve. In operation, the armature substantially blocks and unblocks the orifice. |
| US08375969B2 |
Canopy
The present teachings provide a canopy that can be used in the area around a campfire for shelter during adverse weather conditions. The canopy includes a frame, a cover having a centrally located opening support by the frame, and a set of legs supporting the frame with the cover in an elevated position. The frame is constructed with a set of trusses which interconnect a lower support frame and an upper support frame. The trusses and support members are assembled such that the central opening remains unobstructed. |
| US08375966B2 |
Umbrella apparatus
An umbrella apparatus having a canopy portion hingedly coupled to a pole portion. The umbrellas apparatus includes a rechargeable electrical power system that provides electrical power to an electromechanical opening and closing system and a light assembly. A solar energy system is conductively coupled to the rechargeable electrical power system and is utilized to collect and convert solar energy to electrical energy for recharging the electrical power system. |
| US08375962B2 |
Dosage element and chamber
This invention relates to a dosage element of cleaning composition and an associated chamber for use in a ware washing machine, for example a dishwashing machine or a laundry washing machine. The dosage element and chamber are particularly useful in the context of forming part of a multi-dosing detergent delivery device and/or a refill for such a device. The element supports various different configurations of ingress and egress holes for an efficient dissolution of cleaning composition. |
| US08375955B2 |
Surgical procedure
A surgical procedure is carried out on any suitable hollow organ, such as a gall bladder located beneath an abdominal wall. In a first step of the procedure the hollow organ is inflated by air or water through an inflation line so that the organ swells up. A scalpel is then used to create an incision in the abdominal wall. Sutures are then inserted through the opening and these are used to pull up the inflated organ to the opening. The inflated organ is now presented to the opening and a laparascopic procedure is carried out on the organ. A number of medical devices may be employed to perform the procedure for example a scalpel, an introducer device, an instrument access device, an insufflator, a camera device, and various surgical instruments. |
| US08375949B2 |
Sanitary mask for the protection of others
Disclosed is a sanitary mask for hygienically protecting others that can be conveniently re-used and has a simple structure firmly maintained while the sanitary mask is used, so as to surely achieve the purpose of the sanitary mask, by molding the overall frame of plastics and improving the structure from a structure of preceding Korean Patent Application No. 10-2007-111003, which was filed by the inventor(s) of the present invention before the filing of the present patent application. The sanitary mask for hygienically protecting other people by blocking unsanitary substances provided by respiratory organs including a mouth and a nose of a user from spreading to and contaminating a clean object while exposing the respiratory organs comprising: a lower body molded in a curved shape, i.e., a ‘U’ shape, and including supporters to be hung on the ears of the user or to be wound around a back head of the user at the ends of both sides of the lower body; and a respiratory organ front cover configured to be inclined upward from an upper portion of a front portion of the lower body and cover a front portion of an area around the respiratory organs of the user to thereby expose the respiratory organs of the user. |
| US08375946B2 |
Device for respiratory assistance
Disclosed is a tubular device for respiratory assistance. The device includes a main channel and at least one auxiliary channel connected to a source of breathable gas. The device includes structure for diverting a volume fraction of the breathable gas intended for the auxiliary channel, and structure for aspirating ambient air that is driven by the diverted fraction of breathable gas. The structure of the device is configured such that the aspirated ambient air is mixed with the diverted fraction of breathable gas and is conveyed into the main channel between the distal orifice of the auxiliary channel and the distal end of the main channel. |
| US08375945B2 |
Modular pressure support system and method
A pressure support system that comprises a patient circuit, a docking assembly, and a tank. The patient circuit delivers a pressurized flow of breathable gas to a patient. The docking assembly has an inlet and an outlet that is adapted to receive the pressurized flow of breathable gas, and is also adapted to be connected with the patient circuit. The tank is constructed and arranged to be removably connected with the docking assembly, and enables the pressurized flow of breathable gas to pass therethrough. The tank is also adapted to contain a liquid such that a humidity level of the pressurized flow of breathable gas is elevated as the pressurized flow of breathable gas passes therethrough. |
| US08375940B2 |
Storage system for powdered pharmaceuticals and inhaler equipped with this system
In order to improve the administration of powdered pharmaceuticals, the invention proposes a storage system for powdered pharmaceuticals, in particular for use or integration in a powder inhaler, for receiving a multiplicity of doses of at least one medically active substance, with at least two storage spaces (4) which are separate from each other and are each intended to hold a multiplicity of doses of a medically active substance, and the invention also proposes an inhaler for powdered pharmaceuticals, the inhaler comprising such a pharmaceutical powder cartridge system (1) as an integral part or as an exchangeable part. |
| US08375937B2 |
Intestinal tract pushing apparatus for ultrasonic therapy
The present invention discloses an intestinal tract pushing apparatus for ultrasonic therapy. The intestinal tract pushing apparatus includes a pushing member and an acoustically transparent member. One end of said acoustically transparent member is connected to a buckling strip, and the other end of the acoustically transparent member is connected to an adhesive strip. The acoustically transparent member is bound to the human abdomen by virtue of the adhesive fastening of the buckling strip and the adhesive strip. The pushing member employs a hydraulic system. |
| US08375934B2 |
Solar water heater retrofitted from conventional water heater, system and method
A solar energy water heater system composed of a method of retrofitting an existing conventional gas or electric water heater. In particular, this invention relates to adding a solar energy water heater system comprised of: a solar collector, a solar thermal circulating loop, an over-heat protection loop, and a computer controller with temperature sensors. The solar thermal circulating loop and over-heat protection loop are installed on the existing water storage tank, and the method and system is disclosed herein. |
| US08375927B2 |
Internal combustion engine having a crankcase for a plurality of cylinders
An internal combustion engine has a crankcase for a plurality of cylinders, which has hollow vertical reinforcements in the area of the side walls of the crankcase in the area of the main bearing planes, at least a part of the vertical reinforcements being implemented as oil recirculation passages between cylinder head and crankcase. At least one vertical reinforcement which conducts blow-by gas has a connection for a blow-by gas line leading to an oil separator. |
| US08375924B2 |
Fuel injection valve
A stem is installed to an injector body and is resiliently deformable upon receiving a pressure of high pressure fuel conducted through a high pressure passage of the injector body. A strain gauge is installed to the stem to sense a strain generated in the stem. A molded IC device executes an amplifying operation, which amplifies a signal received from the strain gauge. A housing is installed to the stem and holds the molded IC device. The stem, the strain gauge the molded IC device and the housing are integrally assembled together to form a fuel pressure sensing unit, which is installed to the injector body by threadably fastening a threaded portion, which is formed at the housing, to the injector body. |
| US08375922B2 |
Control of fuel pump by quantifying performance
An engine control system comprises a fuel pump control module and a diagnostic module. The fuel pump control module controls a pressure pump to inject fuel into a fuel rail. The diagnostic module determines an estimated pressure increase within the fuel rail based on the injected fuel, compares an actual pressure increase within the fuel rail to the estimated pressure increase, and indicates when the actual pressure increase is less than the estimated pressure increase. |
| US08375920B2 |
Apparatus to determine cylinder deactivation state
An apparatus determines a cylinder deactivation state of an internal combustion engine capable of deactivating one or more cylinders among a plurality of cylinders in accordance with an instruction from a program-controlled electronic control unit (ECU). The apparatus includes detection means to output a signal corresponding to an intake air amount into the internal combustion engine. The ECU includes Fourier transformation means to perform Fourier transformation on the signal from the detection means at plural fundamental frequencies, and determines the cylinder deactivation state with spectrums obtained from the Fourier transformation means based on predetermined relationship between the spectrums of Fourier transformation at the plural fundamental frequencies and the cylinder deactivation state of the internal combustion engine. The ECU distinguishes a deactivated cylinder with a phase obtained from the Fourier transformation means. |
| US08375919B2 |
Motion translation mechanism
This disclosure concerns machines that convert rotating motion to reciprocation, and vice-versa, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to reciprocating piston machines. Some embodiments include a crankshaft defining a crankshaft-drive and at least one radially extending piston-journal spaced from the crankshaft-drive, and a piston configured to pivotally engage the piston-journal. The piston defines a cylindrical head and an elongate body. Some embodiments further include a drive-member defining a central-axis-of-rotation and being rotatably engageable with the crankshaft-drive. Some embodiments also include a block defining one or more cylinders for receiving one or more pistons. The drive-member rotates when the piston reciprocates, and vice-versa. |
| US08375913B2 |
Vehicle having remote start and carbon monoxide detection
The subject of the present invention is a method for remote starting an internal combustion engine of a vehicle that may include: detecting a wireless remote start signal; after detecting the wireless remote start signal, activating a carbon monoxide detector to detect a level of carbon monoxide adjacent to the vehicle; remote starting the internal combustion engine if the detected level of carbon monoxide is less than a predetermined first CO limit; disabling remote start of the internal combustion engine if the level of carbon monoxide is not less than the predetermined first CO limit; and automatically transmitting an emergency aid signal if the level of carbon monoxide is not less than the predetermined first CO limit. |
| US08375910B2 |
Anti-rotation device for a coupling piston in a switchable component of a valve train of an internal combustion engine
An anti-rotation device (1) for a coupling piston (2) in a switchable component (3) of a valve train of an internal combustion engine is provided, with the component (3) including two parts (4, 5) that are movable relative to each other. The coupling piston (2) is displaced into a bore (6) of one of the two parts (4) for achieving uncoupling, and the coupling piston (2) comprising, at least on one side (8), a flattened portion (9) starting from a front end (7) of the coupling piston (2) facing another one of the two parts (5), through which flattened portion (9), during a relative movement of the two parts (4, 5), the coupling piston (2) is displaced onto an entraining surface (11) arranged on the another one of the two parts (5) for achieving coupling, the anti-rotation device (1) being configured as a fractional region of an opening (13) of the bore (6) on a bridge component spanning the one part (4), and the coupling piston (2) being guided through its flattened portion (9) on a bowstring-like transverse surface (14) of the bridge component. |
| US08375906B2 |
Camshaft phaser for a concentric camshaft
A camshaft adjuster for a concentric camshaft of an internal combustion engine is provided. The adjuster includes a stator that is connected to the timing gear, and a rotor located within the stator and connected to the outer camshaft. The rotor includes a plurality of vanes that extend into spaces created between inwardly directed projections of the stator that slidingly engage the outer surface of the rotor to define first and second sets of chambers on each side of the vanes. Front and rear sidewalls are connected to the stator and form the front and rear walls of the chambers. An outer cover is connected to the stator via axially extending fasteners and is adapted to be connected to the inner camshaft. Radial loads acting on the timing gear are transmitted from the stator to the rotor and into the outer camshaft. |
| US08375902B2 |
Air spring with cap
A poppet valve has a valve head and a valve stem. A piston is capable of reciprocating motion relative to a housing along a reciprocation axis. The piston has a valve-receiving portion for receiving therein an end portion of the valve stem. A cotter secures the valve stem to the piston. A cap is disposed around the valve-receiving portion. A cap lateral portion extends away from the cap end portion in the direction of the valve head. The valve-receiving portion is held between the cap end portion and the cap lateral portion in a direction parallel to the reciprocation axis. At least part of the cap lateral portion is angled toward the reciprocation axis. The part of the cap lateral portion is closer to the reciprocation axis than at least part of the valve-receiving portion. A method of assembling a valve assembly is also described. |
| US08375897B2 |
Gas water heater
A gas water heater includes a power burner, a flue tube, an exhaust plenum, and a draft hood. The flue tube includes a portion that describes at least a 360° loop. Products of combustion are forced through the flue tube under the influence of the power burner, and enter the exhaust plenum. In the exhaust plenum, the pressure of the products of combustion drops such that the products of combustion flow into the draft hood substantially entirely under the influence of natural convection. In one embodiment, the power burner fires down into the flue tube through a side wall of the water heater, the loop of the flue tube is near the bottom of the water heater, and the plenum is in the top of the water heater. |
| US08375896B2 |
Method of use of dicalcium phosphate as an antler scent
A method of producing the scent of deer antlers on a surface by forming an aqueous solution of dicalcium phosphate, and applying the aqueous solution to a surface so that the surface gives off a scent of deer antlers. The solution can be applied to the surface of an object and then a dog can be trained to locate the object, whereby the dog, after this training, will be able to locate shed antlers hidden in the environment; or the solution can be applied to a person or object whereby the application will mask the scent of the person and/or object with regard deer; or can be applied to any surface to attract deer to a desired location. |
| US08375895B2 |
Easy to clean animal litter container
The present invention provides an animal litter container that is easy to clean and to maintain in a clean and sanitary condition. In one embodiment, the litter container includes at least two substantially identical container units correspondingly configured to nest together to form the litter container. Each container unit includes an inner bowl section that holds litter material and has a winged two part casing hinged to rotate between an open position in which the litter material is exposed and accessible to an animal desiring to use the litter container and a closed position forming a pod in which the litter is completely covered. A strainer plate or filter is provided to separate reusable litter from soiled litter for disposal. A second embodiment provides a base element and a correspondingly configured removable litter container element with a winged casing that is similar to that of the first embodiment. |
| US08375891B2 |
Vacuum vapor processing apparatus
There is provided a vacuum evaporating apparatus which is suitable for performing a process in which a metal vapor atmosphere is formed in a processing chamber, the metal atoms in this metal vapor atmosphere are caused to be adhered to the surface of an object to be processed, and the metal atoms adhered to the surface of the object to be processed are diffused into grain boundary phases thereof. The apparatus comprises: a processing furnace (11); at least one processing box (4) disposed inside the processing furnace; and a heating means (2) provided inside the processing furnace so as to enclose the processing box. An evacuating means is provided which, after housing the processing box inside the processing furnace in a state in which the object to be processed (S) and the metal evaporating material (V) are disposed in the processing box, reduces the processing furnace and the processing box to a predetermined pressure and keep them at that pressure. The heating means is operated in the reduced pressure to evaporate the metal evaporating material while increasing the object to be processed to a predetermined temperature. The evaporated metal atoms are supplied to the surface of the object to be processed. |
| US08375890B2 |
Apparatus and methods for capacitively coupled plasma vapor processing of semiconductor wafers
A capacitively coupled plasma reactor comprising a processing chamber, a first electrode, a second electrode and a thermoelectric unit. The processing chamber has an upper portion with a gas inlet and a lower portion, and the upper portion is in fluid communication with the lower portion. The first electrode has a front side and a backside and is positioned at the upper portion of the processing chamber. The second electrode is positioned in the lower portion of the processing chamber and is spaced apart from the front side of the first electrode. The thermoelectric unit is positioned proximate to the backside of the first electrode and is capable of heating and cooling the first electrode. |
| US08375888B2 |
Apparatus for forming films on substrates
A doctor blade assembly for use in combination with apparatus for forming a film on a substrate. The doctor blade assembly includes a doctor blade to be mounted on a programmable robot. The doctor blade has a bottom face and spacers at opposite ends of the body of the doctor blade extending a predetermined distance down below the bottom face of the body for contacting a substrate and spacing the bottom face from the substrate. The spacers are adjustable relative to the doctor blade for adjusting the predetermined distance according to the thickness of film to be formed on the substrate. Other aspects and methods are also disclosed. |
| US08375883B2 |
Rotary switch and relative assembly method
A rotary switch comprising a body housing inside itself a rotating shaft operatively connected to a valve or actuator. The switch further comprises a cover, associated to the body by threaded coupling means, provided with an indicator swivelling integrally with the shaft, so that it enables visual signalling of the angular position and/or operating status of the shaft. The switch comprises centering means, mechanically distinct from the threaded coupling means, which ensure the centering of the cover in relation to the body and the coaxial relation between the cover and the rotating shaft. |
| US08375881B2 |
Rowing boat footrest assembly
A rowing boat footrest assembly is provided with a base, a foot-rudder control member, a footrest member, a first pivot structure and a second pivot structure. The foot-rudder control member includes a rudder control attachment. The footrest member includes a shoe attachment. The first pivot structure pivotally supports the foot-rudder control member on the base. The first pivot structure defines a first pivot axis of pivotal movement between the foot-rudder control member and the base. The second pivot structure pivotally supports the footrest member on the foot-rudder control member to change a shoe inclination of the footrest member with respect to the foot-rudder control member. The second pivot structure defines a second pivot axis of pivotal movement between the footrest member and the foot-rudder control member. The second pivot axis is not parallel to the first pivot axis. |
| US08375880B1 |
Retractable step for boat swim platform
A retractable step for use with a boat in water comprising at least one moveable arm pivotally coupled with the boat, a step coupled with the arm such that the step is moveable between a stored position above the water surface and a deployed position below the water surface, and a lock configured to hold the moveable arm in a stationary position when the step is in its deployed position, but is releasable to accommodate movement of the step to its stored position. |
| US08375879B2 |
Payload stowage unit
A stowage unit for a payload such as a weapon, countermeasure or unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), and a method for using the unit to deploy the payload are described. The unit comprises an inner tube for holding the payload, wherein the inner tube is mounted in an outer vessel and so defines a volume between the outer vessel and inner tube. The volume has a first sealing element, which can be used to open or seal the volume at one end, and a valve enabling fluid communication between the volume and inner tube. After deployment of the payload, a weight of fluid equivalent to the deployed payload can be allowed to enter the volume from the inner tube, thus enabling the weight of the unit to remain substantially unaltered from before deployment to after deployment. |
| US08375875B2 |
LNG carrier having an LNG loading and unloading system
An LNG carrier having an LNG loading and unloading system includes a submerged turret loading (STL) system for introducing and discharging a natural gas; a liquefaction plant for liquefying the natural gas introduced through the submerged turret loading system into a cryogenic liquefied natural gas; at least one self-supporting storage tank installed in the LNG carrier for storing the liquefied natural gas, the self-supporting storage tank arranged in such a manner that the liquefied natural gas is loaded to and unloaded from the LNG carrier through the self-supporting storage tank; and at least one membrane type storage tank arranged in a neighboring relationship with the self-supporting storage tank, the membrane type storage tank kept in fluid communication with the self-supporting storage tank. The LNG carrier further includes a regasification plant for regasifying the liquefied natural gas stored in the self-supporting storage tank. |
| US08375873B2 |
Seed metering device for agricultural seeder
A seed metering device for agricultural seeders has a meter housing, a seed disk covering an open side of the meter housing, and a brush assembly mounted within the meter housing and contacting the seed disk. The meter housing has a seed delivery opening for delivering a supply of seed into a seed pool area, an air inlet provided above the seed pool area for receiving a supply of positive pressure air into the meter housing, and a seed exit area where seed can be dropped into a seed tube. The seed disk has seed pockets spaced around its outer circumference that pass through the seed pool and pick up individual seeds as the seed disk rotates. The device includes several features that help singulate and drop seeds in a way that provides a desired number of seeds per acre and a uniform spacing between the seeds in the furrow. |
| US08375869B2 |
Crash-resistant front apron for a rail vehicle
A crash-resistant front apron for a rail vehicle is provided. The front apron includes an apron cover, a first support part supporting the apron cover, a second support part attached to a frame of the rail vehicle and a friction coupling release mechanism which connects the first support part to the second support part by a friction connection. In the event of a crash of the rail vehicle, in which a collision force acts on the front apron cover causing a torsion of the first support part relative to the second support part, the friction coupling release mechanism releases the friction connection. |
| US08375867B2 |
Railcar cover opening/closing system
A cover opening and closing system for use with a railcar. The railcar has a longitudinal axis, a top opening and at least one movable cover configured to cover the opening. The cover opening and closing system includes at least one structural support coupled generally to the ground and at least one of an opening device and a closing device. The opening device and closing device are coupled to said at least one structural support. The at least one of an opening device and a closing device are configured to contact a portion of the at least one movable cover and to cause the movable cover to move as the railcar moves in a longitudinal direction substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis. |
| US08375863B2 |
Amusement ride installation
An amusement ride includes at least one passenger carrier, an amusement ride guide structure and a launch system adapted to accelerate the at least one passenger carrier from a starting position. The launch system includes a launch guide structure having a curvature, a launch arm rotatable about a rotation axis, an engagement device for providing a temporary connection between the launch arm and the at least one passenger carrier during the launch, and a launch drive providing the launch arm with an angular velocity. In the launch system, the radial distance between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have a deviating radius, or the distance in axial direction between the engagement device and the launch arm support is variable such that portions of the launch guide structure have curvatures perpendicular to the surface of rotation. |
| US08375862B2 |
Gas generating system
A base assembly for a gas generating system is provided. The base assembly includes a base and a retainer affixed to the base. In an alternative embodiment, the assembly includes an initiator molded to both the base and the retainer. |
| US08375860B2 |
Stackable, easily packaged and aerodynamically stable flechette
A flechette has a forward section or body (12) containing its center of gravity. A quill (10) is connected to the forward section and is integrally connected to a pair of fins (15A, 15B) each having a longitudinal angle and a radial angle. When the two fins are viewed from the aft of the flechette, the pair of fins demonstrate an S-shaped orientation. The size, shape and orientation of the fins provide aerodynamic stability to the flechette while allowing the flechette to be stacked with like-shaped flechettes in rows and columns or in a radial, circular arrangement. When stacked in rows and columns or in a circular arrangement, each flechette has its nose oriented in the same forward direction. |
| US08375846B2 |
Disposable beverage press
Apparatuses, systems and methods for providing a pressed beverage using a press and lid system. In one aspect, a beverage material is pressed to the bottom of a beverage container by means of a press ring including a filter. The walls of the beverage container exert a force on the press ring, folding flaps (perimeter portions) that are attached to the press ring by means of a flexible attachment member. Any beverage material or other debris that is not collected by the filter in the press ring is collected by a filter in the lid. Other variations and features consistent with the present invention exist. |
| US08375845B2 |
Device for preparing hot water and coffee machine provided with such a device
The invention relates to a device for preparing hot water provided with a pressure pump with a supply pipe for supplying relatively cold water to the pressure pump and an outlet connected to a heating pipe which is in heat-exchanging contact with a heating body, with an outlet valve in the heating pipe and a coffee holder, connected to the heating pipe, for accommodating a bed of coffee, whereby the heating body comprises a reservoir that is openly connected to the environment, with a heating element and water in the reservoir as a heat-exchange medium. A by-pass pipe (54) connects the inlet (57) and outlet (35) of the pressure pump (34) to each other, with a pressure-operated valve (56) in the by-pass pipe. |
| US08375842B2 |
Electro-pneumatic system for controlling a double-acting pneumatic actuator
In an electro-pneumatic system for controlling a double-acting pneumatic actuator having first and second working chambers, first and second preliminary pneumatic control components generate first and second preliminary pneumatic control signals transferred to respective first and second main pneumatic control components having outputs connected to the respective first and second working chambers. An electronic splitter circuit precedes the first and second preliminary pneumatic control components for splitting and inverting an electrical control signal input to the splitter circuit around an electrical mean control value to create first and second mirror-inverted electrical control signals respectively connected to the respective first and second preliminary pneumatic control components. The electrical mean control value is adjustable such that the first and second preliminary control components respectively generate the respective first and second preliminary pneumatic control signals mutually inverted around a pneumatic mean value. |
| US08375839B2 |
Lightweight armor and ballistic projectile defense apparatus
Ballistic resistant armor material and assembly including a thin, rigid armor component for stopping and capturing ballistic projectiles, backed by a resilient component formed of thermoplastic elastomeric honeycomb material for absorbing projectile strike energy and reducing impact noise and/or blunt trauma injury. The armor component includes multiple layers of high tensile strength aramid fabric or the like sandwiched between front and back plates made of multiple layers of woven carbon cloth impregnated with an epoxy resin or the like. The several layers of the armor component are formed and compressed to provide a rigid outer shell that can advantageously be configured as planar or shaped to suit particular applications. The resilient component is affixed to the inside surface of the armor component and may include one or more layers of flexible honeycomb material having cells that are open, hermetically sealed, or perforated to provide fluid circulation therethrough. |
| US08375836B2 |
Cutting devices
The present invention includes a cutting device including a table and a cutting unit disposed on an upper side of the table and vertically movably supported by the table via a slide mechanism. The slide mechanism enables the cutting unit to slide in a sliding direction relative to the table within a plane substantially parallel to a surface of the table. A slide lock mechanism can lock and unlock the sliding movement of the cutting unit and includes an operation member operable to slide for locking and unlocking the sliding movement. |
| US08375834B2 |
Die assembly
A die assembly having a guide rod that includes a lower rod which is fixedly placed on a stripper plate which guides a punch for engagement with a lower die and an upper rod which is placed removably on the stripper plate for engagement with an upper die. When punching a material for punching, the upper rod is removed from the stripper plate so as to put the upper plate and the stripper plate in a disconnected state, i.e., so that the stripper plate is made free to move backwards and forwards relative to the lower die by the lower rod. When the material for punching is not punched, the upper rod is attached to the stripper plate so as to put the upper die and the stripper plate in a connected state by the upper rod, so that the stripper plate is held on to the upper die. |
| US08375832B2 |
Compact one touch pneumatic wrench
A compact one touch pneumatic wrench includes a cylinder having an improved air passage to achieve one touch function and a housing mad of engineering plastic material. Compared to a conventional pneumatic wrench which needs one hand to hold the handle and the other hand to operate the clockwise/counterclockwise rotation of the motor, the present invention improves the air passage of the cylinder to provide a simple and convenient operation with only one hand, providing a convenient operation and enhancing the work efficiency. |
| US08375826B1 |
Self balancing chopping or threshing rotor
A rotary element and a rotary element balancing system of a combine harvester. The rotary element includes a rotary member that rotates during operation and one or more blade mount assemblies. The rotary element also includes one or more auto-balance assemblies mounted to the rotary member to compensate for a mass offset on the rotary element due to the one or more blade mount assemblies being dislodged or broken. The one or more auto-balance assemblies include one or more tracks and one or more spheres located inside the one or more tracks and in contact with first and second bearing race edges. Loads are transferred from at least one of the first bearing race edge and the second bearing race edge, when the rotary member rotates, to the one or more spheres that self-align within the track to compensate for the mass offset on the rotary element. |
| US08375824B2 |
Bicycle control device
A bicycle control device is basically provided with a base member, a positioning member, a positioning pawl and a wire takeup member. The positioning member pivots relative to the base member about a pivot axis. The positioning pawl is pivotally mounted about a positioning pawl pivot axis to operatively engage at least one positioning abutment of the positioning member. The wire takeup member pivots relative to the base member about the pivot axis. The wire takeup member has a proximal end portion pivotally mounted about the pivot axis and a distal end portion with an inner wire contact surface. The inner wire contact surface is located radially outwardly from the at least one positioning abutment and the positioning pawl pivot axis with respect to the pivot axis. |
| US08375823B2 |
Bicycle shift control device
A bicycle shift control device is provided with a stroke controlling structure that provides distinct shifting position for an operating member that is pivotally arranged to move between a rest position, a first shifting position and a second shifting position. The stroke controlling structure includes a guide member configured and arranged to stop movement of the operating member at the first shifting position when the operating member is progressive moved in the single operating direction from the rest position. The guide member is further configured and arranged to control further movement of the operating member from the first shifting position to the second shift position when the operating member is moved in a non-operating direction away from the first shifting position without returning to the rest position. |
| US08375822B2 |
Energy absorbing device for a collapsible steering column assembly
A collapsible steering column assembly includes a mounting bracket configured for mounting to a vehicle, the bracket having a front portion and a back portion, the front portion comprising a pair of spaced arms, each arm having an inner surface that opposes the inner surface of the other and an opposed outer surface. The assembly also includes a steering column having a longitudinal axis and comprising an inner jacket that is slidably disposed within the outer jacket between the spaced arms. The assembly further includes a locking device that passes through the spaced arms and the outer jacket, the locking device movable to lock or unlock the slidable disposition of the inner jacket within the outer jacket. Still further, the assembly includes an energy absorbing device comprising an energy absorbing strap that is fixed to the inner jacket at a first portion thereof and slidably disposed within the outer jacket. |
| US08375819B2 |
Toothed piece for a geared motor, series of geared motors and connection
In a toothed piece for a geared motor, series of geared motors and connection, the toothed piece, for a connection with a motor shaft of the electric motor, having at least a first toothing in a first axial region, and having at least a second toothing in a second axial region, the second toothing meshing with a running toothing of a further toothed piece of the gear unit. |
| US08375818B2 |
Steering yoke
A yoke for use in a rack and pinion steering assembly is described. The yoke may include a bearing surface that provides a low coefficient of friction, allowing for a greater biasing force against the rack shaft. The materials and design of the yoke can provide for a quieter system with reduced vibration. |
| US08375815B2 |
Rolling element screw device
A rolling-element screw device includes: a large number of rolling elements; a screw shaft having an outer periphery on which a rolling groove for the large number of rolling elements is helically formed; a nut member which has a through-hole through which the screw shaft is passed and which is threadedly engaged with the screw shaft through intermediation of the large number of rolling elements; a lubricant supply hole formed through the nut member from an outer peripheral surface of the nut member to an inner peripheral surface of the nut member; a lubricant tank mounted to the outer peripheral surface of the nut member and comprising an accommodating chamber for lubricant; and a lubricant applying body standing from the lubricant tank, and inserted into the lubricant supply hole along with amounting operation of the lubricant tank with respect to the nut member. |
| US08375814B2 |
Drive device
A drive device includes a first fastening device (5), for connection to a stationary base part, especially a vehicle body, or to a movable part, especially a vehicle (hinged) lid or door; a second fastening device (24), for connection to the movable part or to the stationary base part; a spindle drive (17), which includes a threaded spindle (16) and a spindle nut (19) mounted on the threaded spindle (16) and capable of moving the first and the second fastening devices (5, 24) axially relative to each other; and a rotary drive (9), which rotates the spindle drive (17) by way of an overload safety device, wherein the nonrotatable connection between the two components can be released when a certain torque is exceeded, and wherein the overload safety device is formed by a clutch device (15), which comprises an inner part (32) connected to the rotary drive (9), which inner part rotates an intermediate part (34) by way of a damping element (33) and, by way of the intermediate part (34), rotates an outer part (36) connected to the spindle drive (17). |
| US08375812B2 |
Method and device for carrying out a work operation on a moving workpiece
A method and a device for carrying out a work operation, on a workpiece continually moving forward on a conveying device, by an industrial robot moving along with the workpiece during a common run though a work path are provided. The industrial robot is displaceable along a separate longitudinal guide next to the conveying device. During the common run a base part of the industrial robot is rigidly coupled to a workpiece carrier, and the base part floats relative to a bogie running in the longitudinal guide. The industrial robot includes an exchangeable tool which, at the beginning of the common run through the working path, is a scanner tool connected to a working arm of the industrial robot. A relative position between the work piece and the workpiece carrier is determined from the reference coordinate system of the industrial robot. |
| US08375811B2 |
Mass measurement of a flywheel hybrid vehicle
An apparatus for measuring the mass of a hybrid vehicle having a prime mover, a secondary mover incorporating a flywheel, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) being connectable with a driveline of the vehicle and with the flywheel, the apparatus including a means for measuring a rate of change of CVT ratio during a transference of energy between the hybrid vehicle and the flywheel. |
| US08375806B2 |
Electrode shaft for a magneto-inductive flow measuring device having a plurality of frustoconical sealing lips
An electrode for a magneto-inductive flow measuring device for determining volume flow of an electricity conductive medium flowing through a measuring tube. The measuring tube, or at least a portion of it which comes in contact with the medium, is not electrically conductive; wherein the electrode exhibits an electrode shaft and an electrode head. The electrode head contacts the medium, and the electrode shaft exhibits frustoconically shaped sealing lips arranged one after the other in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the electrode. The electrode shaft is pressed into a bore in the wall of the measuring tube. The maximum diameter of the sealing lip nearest the electrode head is greater than the diameter of the bore, and, at least in a part of the electrode shaft, the maximum diameter of any following sealing lip is greater than the maximum diameter of the preceding sealing lip. |
| US08375804B2 |
Apparatus for testing bonding strength of electrical connections and frictionless calibration device for the same
An apparatus for testing bonding strength of electrical connection comprises a platform including a two-axis drive, a device holder positioned on the two-axis drive and configured to receive an electronic device, a vertical drive positioned on the platform, a cantilever positioned on the vertical drive, and a test head connected in a rotational manner with the cantilever. A frictionless calibration device for shear force testing comprises a base, two supporters positioned on the base, a shaft having two tapering ends positioned between the two supporters, and a calibration member fixed on the shaft, wherein the shaft and the calibration member contact the supporters in a rotational manner. |
| US08375792B2 |
Vibratory gyroscope using piezoelectric film
A vibrating gyroscope according to this invention includes a ring-shaped vibrating body 11 having a uniform plane, a leg portion 15 flexibly supporting the ring-shaped vibrating body and having a fixed end, a fixed potential electrode 16, and a plurality of electrodes 13a, 13b, . . . , 13f formed on the plane with a piezoelectric film sandwiched between an upper-layer metallic film and a lower-layer metallic film in a thickness direction thereof. In this case, in a representative example shown in FIG. 1, when one of driving electrodes 13a for exciting a primary vibration of the ring-shaped vibrating body 11 in a vibration mode of cos Nθ is set as a reference driving electrode, the plurality of remaining electrodes 13b, . . . , 13f are disposed at specific positions. Such disposition allows this vibrating gyroscope to excite a primary vibration in an out-of-plane vibration mode of cos 2θ as well as detect a uniaxial or biaxial angular velocity by adopting a secondary vibration detector in an in-plane vibration mode of cos 3θ. |
| US08375791B2 |
Capacitive MEMS gyroscope and method of making the same
A capacitive MEMS gyroscope and a method of making the same are disclosed. The capacitive MEMS gyroscope comprises a semiconductor substrate and a suspended composite wheel. The semiconductor substrate comprises: a read-out circuitry; at least one bottom electrode disposed on top of the semiconductor substrate, centered to a rotation axis and electrically connected to the read-out circuitry; at least one contact pad disposed on the top of the semiconductor substrate, electrically to the read-out circuitry; the composite wheel, partially made of dielectric film and configured in suspension above and in parallel to the semiconductor substrate and centered to the rotation axis, comprises: at least one top electrode disposed on the composite wheel, aligned vertically with one of the bottom electrode, electrically to the read-out circuitry; at least one circumferential spring centered to the rotation axis, bridging the composite wheel and the semiconductor substrate and consisting of at least one top electrode which electrically connects the top electrode to the contact pad on the semiconductor substrate. The gyroscope of the present invention formed by depositing and photolithographically patterning has miniaturized size, low tolerance scope and high sensing accuracy, as well as low fabrication costs owing to special bulk MEMS fabrication device unnecessary. |
| US08375790B2 |
Physical quantity detection apparatus, method of controlling physical quantity detection apparatus, abnormality diagnosis system, and abnormality diagnosis method
An angular velocity detection apparatus (i.e., physical quantity detection apparatus) includes a gyro sensor element (i.e., physical quantity detection element) that allows an angular velocity detection signal that corresponds to the magnitude of an angular velocity (i.e., physical quantity) and a leakage signal of vibrations based on a drive signal (square-wave voltage signal) to flow through a detection electrode, a driver circuit that generates the drive signal, a synchronous detection circuit that performs a synchronous detection process on a detection target signal that includes the angular velocity detection signal and the leakage signal based on a detection signal that is synchronized with the drive signal, and a phase change circuit that changes a relative timing of at least one of a rising edge and a falling edge of the detection signal with respect to the detection target signal based on a control signal so that at least part of the leakage signal is output by the synchronous detection process. |
| US08375788B2 |
Gyrometer in surface technology, with out-of-plane detection by strain gauge
A device that detects a rotation around a first axis, the device including: a substrate; a first zone having a first thickness and including at least one mass, defining, idle, a plane, arranged at a distance from a second axis of rotation contained in the plane, the mass being able to be caused to vibrate in the plane, perpendicular to the first axis of rotation, and at least two connecting arms that connect the mass to the second axis of rotation; and a vibration inducing device that causes the mass to vibrate in the plane. |
| US08375786B2 |
Rotation rate sensor having a quadrature compensation pattern
A rotation-rate sensor having at least one quadrature compensation pattern, which includes at least one first electrode and one second electrode. The second electrode has a first electrode surface and a second electrode surface which are situated opposite to each other. The first electrode is situated in an intermediate space, between the first electrode surface and the second electrode surface. The first electrode surface and also the second electrode surface, over their extension, are at a different distance from the first electrode. The first electrode surface and the second electrode surface of the second electrode are at generally the same distance from each other, over their extension. |
| US08375785B2 |
Gravity gradiometer system
A method and apparatus for an improved gravity gradiometer are disclosed. |
| US08375783B2 |
Device and method for detecting the filling level of a container, and device for filling a container
A device and method for detecting the filling level of a container, such as a bottle, using a measuring probe that can be introduced into the container and comprises a resistance section which is electrically contacted at two points. The resistance section can be brought into contact with the product with which the container is to be filled, at different heights, the measuring probe comprising an electrically contacted reference potential electrode. |
| US08375779B2 |
Method for determining an absolute rotational position of a vehicle steering column
A method for determining an absolute rotational position of a vehicle steering column is provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the method determines a relative position of a steering assist motor utilizing a relative position sensor. Thereafter, the method determines the absolute rotational position of the vehicle steering column based upon the relative position of the steering assist motor. |
| US08375778B2 |
Sealed engine control module with integral ambient air pressure sensor
An engine control module having an environmentally-sealed housing includes a housing-mounted air pressure sensor for providing a reliable measure of atmospheric air pressure to a control circuit mounted within the housing. The sensor is mounted on an inboard face of the housing, and includes a sensor element, a body portion and a riser portion. The sensor element is mounted in the body portion, and the riser portion protrudes through an opening in the housing to couple the sensor element to atmospheric pressure outside the housing. The body portion is sealingly secured to the inboard face of the housing, and a set of conductor pins molded into the body portion extend inward to engage a circuit board enclosed by the housing, and thereby directly couple the sensor element to the ECM's control circuit. The top of the riser portion is capped by a splash-proof lid to prevent water intrusion. |
| US08375777B2 |
Manifold pressure determination device
A pressure measurement system includes a multiplexer unit which inputs a plurality of electrical signals representative of pressures, and a comparison unit which compares the electrical signals among each other to determine a specified signal characteristic, wherein the multiplexer unit selects one of the electrical signals as an output signal based on the determination of the specified signal characteristic, and outputs the selected signal. |
| US08375774B2 |
Scratch testing apparatus for performing scratching test while gradually increasing or decreasing load
A scratch testing apparatus for performing a scratching test while gradually increasing or decreasing a load, in which a pressure applied to the surface of a test specimen gradually increases or decreases as a head unit, to which a tip is attached, moves horizontally. The scratching testing apparatus includes a head unit having a bottom to which a tip attached; a guiding unit for guiding the head unit to move horizontally; and a pressure changing unit for changing pressure applied to the tip while the head unit is moving along the guiding unit. Therefore, the scratch testing apparatus may perform a scratching test as gradually increasing or gradually decreasing a load applied to the test specimen by the tip by moving the head unit, to which the tip is attached, horizontally. |
| US08375773B2 |
Methods for contacting a surface with a fluid containing a marker to determine the wettability of the surface
Methods of determining the wettability of a surface under predetermined conditions, wherein the surface simulates or is a downhole surface for use in an oil or gas operation. The methods include the steps of: (A) contacting the surface with at least a first fluid; and then (B) observing the surface for the presence or absence of a marker to determine the wettability of the surface. According to a first aspect of the inventions, the first fluid comprises a first marker, and the step of contacting is under first predetermined conditions. This aspect also includes the additional step of contacting the surface with a second fluid comprising a second marker. According to a second aspect of the inventions, the step of contacting the surface with the first fluid is under predetermined conditions, and the surface is contacted with a second fluid comprising a second marker. According to a third aspect of the inventions, the first fluid comprises a first marker, the surface is contacted with a second fluid comprising a second marker, and both steps of contacting are performed under predetermined conditions. |
| US08375772B2 |
Liquid chromatography apparatus and liquid chromatography analysis method
An object of the present invention is to improve the accuracy in analysis repeatability of a liquid chromatography apparatus that feeds different eluent by use of a plurality of pumps and achieves the mixture of eluent.Each of the pumps includes means for notifying an automatic sampler and a higher-level control unit that the specified timing of a liquid feeding cycle is reached. A pump whose liquid feeding cycle is the slowest transmits own information so that analysis is synchronized with a liquid feeding cycle. Moreover, a cycle position of a liquid feeding cycle at the end of analysis is expected, and the analysis time is automatically adjusted so that the wait time until the start of the next analysis becomes the shortest. |
| US08375771B1 |
Viscometer for testing cement rheology
Viscometer (80) with a closed bottom rotor assembly (51) rotatable by a coupling magnet (34) and a driving magnet (38) to shear a tested fluid thus imparting torque to a bob (30) mounted on a bob shaft (24) supported via bearings (22 and 18) inside rotor assembly (51). An upper chamber (96) located in the upper portion of rotor assembly (51) is at least partially filled with sample and communicates pressure with lower portion of rotor assembly (51) and rotor top via small gap (106) and small gap (110). A spiral spring (70) restricts the rotation of bob shaft (24). Magnetometer (10) measures the angular position of a top magnet (72) connected to the top of bob shaft (24). This angular position information is further converted to the viscosity of the tested fluid. |
| US08375770B2 |
Engine leak detector and leak detection method
An apparatus and method for leak detection through use of an adapter containing a chamber, an air pressurization port, and detection media instillation port. The apparatus is sealingly or relatively sealingly coupled to a turbo inlet air duct on an internal combustion engine under study, such that the apparatus chamber communicates with the engine's interior void. The apparatus permits pressurized air and detective media, such as smoke or fog, to be introduced through the chamber and into the void of an engine to determine the presence and location of engine system leaks. |
| US08375769B2 |
Method for SINR measurement with controlling residual gain in HSPA/HSDPA system and apparatus thereof
An apparatus and method for measuring a Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) by controlling a residual gain in a high speed packet access system are provided. The apparatus includes a gain controller for measuring an intensity of a signal outputted from a residual gain controller, for outputting a gain control signal for controlling a gain of an interval of a preset gain resolution of a radio frequency integrated circuit according to the intensity of measured signal, and for outputting a residual gain value for controlling a residual gain less than the preset gain resolution, wherein the radio frequency integrated circuit gain-controls a signal inputted according to the gain control signal, and the residual gain controller multiplies the gain-controlled signal by the residual gain value to compensate the residual gain. |
| US08375768B2 |
Ionic liquid thin layer sensor for electrochemical and/or piezoelectric measurements
An electrochemical piezoelectric sensor is disclosed. The sensor includes a piezoelectric substrate, three (or more) electrodes over a first surface of the substrate, and another electrode over a second (opposing) surface of the substrate. An ionic liquid in the form of a film is adhered, bound, immobilized, or otherwise positioned over the substrate and electrodes of the first surface. The ionic liquid film permits the absorption and detection of analytes from a gaseous sample, for environmental gases, example explosive vapors and/or explosive vapor species in the gaseous sample. Detection (optionally including analyte quantitation and qualitative identification) can be performed by both electrochemical and piezoelectric techniques using a single sensor. Systems incorporating and methods of using the electrochemical piezoelectric sensor also are disclosed. |
| US08375766B2 |
Methods and apparatus for monitoring particles flowing in a stack
An apparatus (7) for monitoring particles flowing in a stack (6), comprises: an electrical-interaction monitor (1) operable to provide a signal (300) resulting from electrical interaction of the particles with the monitor (1). a scattered-light monitor (10) operable to provide a signal (310) resulting from detection of light scattered from the particles, and a controller (320) arranged to alter the calibration of the electrical-interaction monitor 1 in response to changes in the relative magnitude of the electrical-interaction (signal 300) and the scattered-light signal (310). |
| US08375764B2 |
Pipe bender
A pipe bender includes first and second handles pivotably secured together wherein the second handle includes first and second rotatable pipe receiving grooves at both ends of a forward U; a support member threadedly fastened between a forward bifurcation of the first handle, the support member comprising a spring depressible detent on the bottom, and a plurality of markings on the top; and a slide member comprising a plurality of parallel arcuate pipe receiving channels of different arcuate perimeters on a lower surface, a central U-shaped trough on the top for receiving a lower portion of the support member, retaining holes on the bottom of the U-shaped trough, each retaining hole being aligned with one pipe receiving channel and one retaining hole adapted to lockingly receive the detent for positioning. The slide member is slidably retained by the support member. |
| US08375762B2 |
Stripper device for can drawing and ironing apparatus
A stripper device for can drawing and ironing apparatus can remove a drawn and ironed can material from a punch without causing buckling (curl and wrinkle) on the material. Each finger (2) is split into three small fingers (21), and an axial end of each small finger (21) is engaged with the lower part of a rocking arm (3) with an elastic member (24) in between. A head portion (33) of each rocking arm (3) is engaged with a cam portion (42) of a cam ring (4) to allow the finger (2) to be driven independently each other. Each rocking arm (3) is biased by an arm spring (32) in the direction of opening the small finger (21), while the small finger (21) is biased by a finger spring (22) in the direction of its closure. |
| US08375752B2 |
Key box
According to the present invention, a key box is provided to include: a body; a cover, pivotally connected with the body to render an open state and a closed state; and a panel set, embedded on the cover, comprising a keypad module and a lock module. Wherein, by manipulating either the keypad module or the lock module, the open state and the closed state can be switched. |
| US08375749B2 |
Method for fabricating porous silica preform
A method for fabricating a porous silica preform includes the steps of supplying fuel gas for generating an oxyhydrogen flame to a glass synthesizing burner; supplying Gas A containing silicon and Gas B containing fluorine to the burner; synthesizing glass particles; and depositing the glass particles around a starting rod, in which when glass particles are deposited directly on the starting rod, a supply of Gas A and a supply of Gas B supplied to the burner are adjusted so that a ratio of the number of fluorine atoms to the number of silicon atoms in the gas supplied to the burner satisfies the following Formula (1): {(number of F atoms)/(number of Si atoms)}≦0.1 (1). |
| US08375748B2 |
Glass manufacturing container, glass manufacturing apparatus with the same and glass manufacturing method using glass manufacturing apparatus
A glass manufacturing container includes a container body and an electron donor. The container body is made of a precious metal or an alloy containing a precious metal and has an inner surface to be brought into contact with molten glass and an outer surface kept from contact with molten glass. The electron donor is electrically connected to the outer surface of the container body. The electron donor is made of an electron donating material capable of donating electrons to the container body at operating temperatures. |
| US08375747B2 |
Apparatus for sealing a joint between vessels for conveying molten glass
A sealing apparatus for use in conveying molten glass from a first vessel to a second vessel, wherein at least a portion of the first vessel is nested within the second vessel without contact between the first and second vessels, and a flexible member comprising a gas-tight seal separates an atmosphere enclosed by the sealing apparatus and an ambient atmosphere. The sealing apparatus is useful for flexibly sealing a non-contact joint between conduits for supplying molten glass to a forming body. |
| US08375746B2 |
Frameless spill-safe shelf
A formed glass shelf is provided having a central region with an upper planar surface and a curved perimeter region surrounding the central region, which has an edge. The curved perimeter region is non-coplanar with the central region, and the edge is offset in a range of about 2 mm to 6 mm from the upper planar surface of the central region to contain spills on the shelf. A method is provided for slump-forming the shelf, including slump-forming an oversized blank and removing an outermost portion to achieve the finished size. |
| US08375744B2 |
Hermetically sealed glass package and method of manufacture
A method for manufacturing a hermetically sealed package is provided, the method comprising the steps of: using a laser to heat a frit, disposed in a pattern between two substrates, such that the heated frit forms a hermetic seal which connects the substrates and further comprising: directing the laser to enter the frit pattern, then to trace the frit pattern, then to retrace a portion of the frit pattern, and then to exit the frit pattern; and selecting an initial laser power which, when the laser enters the frit pattern, is insufficient to heat the frit to form a hermetic seal; then increasing the laser power over a first section of the frit pattern to a target laser power at least sufficient to heat the frit to form a hermetic seal; and then decreasing the laser power over a second section of the frit pattern until the laser power is insufficient to heat the frit to form a hermetic seal before the laser exits the frit pattern. |
| US08375742B2 |
Reliquifier and recondenser with vacuum insulated sleeve and liquid transfer tube
A reliquifier using a cryocooler in which an insulated sleeve surrounds a portion of the cold head, a first stage cooling station, and a second stage cooling station, including a condenser. Gas is conveyed from a cryostat to the insulated sleeve, where it is liquefied as it passes over the cold head. An end of the insulated sleeve is connected to a liquid transfer tube for conveying condensed fluid back to the cryostat. |
| US08375738B2 |
Sprinkle guide of water trickle ice-making machine
A sprinkle guide provided above an ice making plate in a trickle ice making machine having the ice making plate on which vertically extending projecting portions are formed while spaced apart in the lateral direction and making a lump of ice from ice making water supplied to ice making surfaces provided between adjoining projecting portions, and an ice making water tank provided below the ice making plate. The ice making plate includes cover parts located above each projecting portions, guide parts provided between adjoining cover parts to face the ice making surfaces while inclining downward from the projecting end side of the projecting portions toward the ice making surfaces side and guiding the ice making water to the ice making surfaces through a slit defined between the inclination lower end and the ice making surfaces and a notch provided at the upper end of the guide parts. |
| US08375734B2 |
Fresh food ice maker control
A refrigeration system is provided with an ice maker chamber within a fresh food compartment. The refrigeration system includes a refrigeration path and an ice maker path. The ice maker path includes an electronic expansion valve for controlling the refrigerant entering an ice maker evaporator and an evaporator pressure regulator. Controlling the refrigeration system includes the steps of sensing a first refrigerant temperature at an exit of the ice maker evaporator and controlling a first control of the electronic expansion valve until the temperature reaches a temperature target. The method of controlling can further include comparing a slope of the temperature to at least one of a minimum, a target, or a maximum setting to adjust the control. Subsequently, a second control for the electronic expansion valve can be repeatedly adjusted by evaluating the first refrigerant temperature and the slope. |
| US08375732B2 |
Method for controlling an air conditioning system in a vehicle
A method for controlling an air conditioning system in a vehicle to reduce the humidity entering into the interior of the vehicle is disclosed. One aspect of the disclosure is that a measure for the amount of water collected at the fresh air intake port is determined as a function of a sensor signal. Thereafter, the determined measure for the amount of water collected at the fresh air intake port may be used to control the air conditioning system in such a manner that the amount of air that is drawn in through the fresh air intake port is reduced. |
| US08375731B2 |
Refrigerator having wiring arrangement using integrated wiring modules
Disclosed are an integrated wiring module for a refrigerator which is capable of simplifying the wiring of a refrigerator by integrating the various power lines and signal lines conventionally necessary to control a refrigerator into only one line, and a refrigerator having a simplified wiring structure adopting the same. The refrigerator includes integrated wiring modules provided at a refrigerator door connected to a main body board and to each actuator means, wherein the integrated wiring modules are connected to each other only through AC power lines so as to control the door and the respective actuator means, thereby being capable of achieving a door-side zero clearance and sliminess by simplifying the wiring within the refrigerator, reducing an error rate or failure rate which may arise due to the wiring, enhancing the insulating effect by reducing the number of wirings passing through insulation, and reducing the size of a main body board of the refrigerator to thereby increase the capacity of the inner space as by much as the reduced size. |
| US08375730B2 |
Selecting packaging and coolant systems for shipment of biological products
Disclosed is a process of selecting of a container and temperature-control system, such that biological products (including blood) requiring maintenance within a specified range of temperatures are so maintained during shipment. The process requires a prediction of the maximum period of shipment, and the predicted ambient temperature ranges and time of exposure thereto for the system during the period of shipment. With that information, a system of container(s) with temperature-control agents including dry ice, ice, frozen gel packs or a phase change material, is selected. |
| US08375727B2 |
Cooling device
A cooling device includes a magnetocaloric unit disposed between a heat sink and a heat load, an electromagnet operably connected with the magnetocaloric unit, and at least one thermostat switch disposed between the magneto caloric unit and the heat load. The at least one thermostat switch is configured to make the magnetocaloric unit in contact with either the heat load or the heat sink according to a temperature of the magnetocaloric unit. |
| US08375723B2 |
Method for operating a gas turbine
In method for operating a gas turbine (11), the compressed air is fed to a combustor (18, 19) for the combustion of a coal syngas, and the resulting hot gases are expanded in a subsequent turbine (16, 17). Some of the compressed air is separated into oxygen and nitrogen, and the oxygen is used for producing the syngas. In a first combustor, (18) syngas is combusted and the resulting hot gases are expanded in a first turbine (16), and in a second combustor syngas is combusted, using the gases which issue from the first turbine (16), and the resulting hot gases are expanded in the second turbine (17). The two combustors (18, 19) are operated with undiluted syngas, and the first combustor flame temperature (TF) is lowered compared with the operation with natural gas (TNG), while the second combustor (19) is operated in the normal operation (TNG) for natural gas. |
| US08375716B2 |
Operating a sub-sea organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system using individual pressure vessels
A method and system for generating electrical power for sub-sea applications includes assembling each of the main components (132, 138, 142, 146) of an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system (100) inside a pressure vessel to form a series of vessels (104, 106, 108, 110) removably connected to one another and configured to be placed near, on or below a sea floor. The main components of the ORC system include an evaporator (132), a turbine (138), a condenser (142) and a pump (146). A working fluid (135) is circulated through the pressure vessels in order to generate mechanical shaft power that is converted to electrical power (P). In some embodiments, the ORC system includes at least one redundant component that corresponds to one of the main components. The working fluid may be circulated through at least one redundant ORC component such that the ORC system is able to continue operating when one of more of the main components is not operating properly. A control system (148) is used to monitor operation of the main components and at least one redundant ORC component. In some embodiments, at least one redundant ORC component is housed in a pressure vessel with its corresponding main component. In other embodiments, at least one redundant ORC component is housed in a separate pressure vessel. |
| US08375715B2 |
Energy converter for converting solar energy into electric power
An energy converter, includes a base, a first and a second converging lenses, an electric coil and a movable module. The base includes a substrate, a transparent chamber and two supporters formed on the substrate. The transparent chamber includes a first and a second vents formed therein. The first and second converging lenses are supported by the respective supporters. The electric coil is fixed on the substrate, and the electric coil defines a receiving space therein. The movable module includes a piston, a connector connected to the piston, a magnet connected to the connector, and a shading plate disposed on the connector and having an opening defined therein. The piston is moved in the transparent chamber due to thermal expansion of air in the transparent chamber, thereby moving the magnet in or out of the receiving space of the electric coil, and thus the electric power is generated. |
| US08375713B2 |
EGR cooler cleaning system and method
A method for dislodging exhaust gas deposits from an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler (26) associated with an engine includes the steps of providing at least one on-board gas source (S) for providing a gas (G) at a superatmospheric pressure, and placing the EGR cooler in fluid communication with the gas source through a supply conduit (44, 144). The supply conduit (44, 144) includes at least one valve (V) that is selectively operable to a closed condition closing the supply conduit and to an open position opening the supply conduit. The method also includes the step of operating the at least one valve (V) from the closed condition to the open condition to allow the superatmospheric gas (G) to flow through the supply conduit (44, 144) to the EGR cooler (26). |
| US08375711B2 |
Compact vacuum material handler
An improved vacuum material handler having an onboard drive engine powering a vacuum pump and a hydraulic pump. The vacuum material handler also having a frame with integrated forklift lugs. |
| US08375710B2 |
Transmission hydraulic control system having an accumulator for priming a pump
A hydraulic control system for a powertrain includes a sump for storing a hydraulic fluid and a pump having an inlet in communication with the sump and an outlet. A valve system is in communication with the outlet of the pump. An accumulator for storing and releasing the hydraulic fluid is in communication with the inlet of the pump and with the valve system. A first control device is disposed between the accumulator and the valve system. A second control device is disposed between the accumulator and the inlet of the pump. The accumulator is charged with the hydraulic fluid when the pump is powered, the accumulator stores the hydraulic fluid when the first control device and the second control device are in the closed condition, and the accumulator releases the hydraulic fluid and primes the pump when the second control device is in the open condition. |
| US08375709B2 |
Exhaust gas additive/treatment system and mixer for use therein
An exhaust mixer (16) is provided for use in an engine exhaust system (10) downstream from an additive injector (14). The mixer (16) includes eight vanes (20), with four of the vanes (20A) extending from a first side (22) of the mixer (16) and arranged in an equally spaced circumferential array around a central axis (24), and the other four of the vanes (20B) extending from an opposite side (26) of the mixer (16) and arranged opposite from the other four vanes (20A) in an equally spaced circumferential array. The vanes (20) include embossed ribs (60) and mount flanges (64). |
| US08375703B2 |
Exhaust gas purification device
An exhaust gas purification device is capable of diffusing and introducing a reducing agent into a NOx catalyst arranged in a downstream side exhaust gas passage. A housing of the device includes a main body in which an upstream side exhaust gas passage and the downstream side exhaust gas passage are housed, and a cap attached to a first surface of the main body provided with an outlet side opening of the upstream side exhaust gas passage and an inlet side opening of the downstream side exhaust gas passage. At least one of the first surface of the main body and a second surface in the cap which faces the first surface includes a guide portion, for guiding an exhaust gas flow, and a reducing agent diffusion portion, for facilitating mixing of the reducing agent with the exhaust gas. |
| US08375700B2 |
Apparatus and method for monitoring oxidation catalyst functionality
Method and apparatus for evaluating an ammonia conversion efficiency of an ammonia oxidation (AMOX) catalyst for reducing ammonia and hydrocarbons present in an exhaust gas stream. The AMOX associated with an exhaust gas after-treatment system has a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOX) present in the exhaust gas stream and a dosing system for introducing a reductant into the exhaust gas stream for reacting with the nitrogen oxides in the presence of the SCR catalyst. The AMOX catalyst is arranged downstream of the SCR catalyst. |
| US08375696B2 |
Independent manifold dual gas turbine fuel system
The present application provides a dual gas fuel delivery system and a method of delivering two gas fuels. The system may include (a) a low energy gas delivery system comprising a low energy gas inlet, a gas split, a low energy gas primary manifold outlet, and a low energy gas secondary manifold outlet; (b) a high energy gas delivery system comprising a high energy gas inlet and a high energy gas primary manifold outlet; (c) a primary manifold; and (d) a secondary manifold, wherein the low energy gas primary manifold outlet and the high energy gas primary manifold outlet are coupled to the primary manifold, wherein the low energy gas secondary manifold outlet is coupled to the secondary manifold, and wherein the low energy gas delivery system further comprises a primary low energy gas stop and pressure control valve between the gas split and the low energy gas primary manifold outlet. |
| US08375695B2 |
Aircraft gas turbine engine counter-rotatable generator
An aircraft gas turbine engine includes a counter-rotatable generator driven by a turbine includes a generator stator and counter-rotatable radially inner pole and outer magnet rotors. A gearbox may be used for counter-rotating the pole and magnet rotors. Counter-rotatable first and second sets of booster stages may be co-rotatable with corresponding ones of the pole and magnet rotors. The generator and the gearbox may be disposed within a booster cavity or a tail cone of the engine. The magnet rotor, the pole rotor, and the stator may be concentric. A particular embodiment of generator includes the magnet rotor encircling the pole rotor, the pole rotor encircling the stator, a rotor air gap between the magnet and pole rotors, and a transformer air gap between the pole rotor and the stator. The counter-rotatable generator may be driven directly by a counter-rotatable turbine. |
| US08375694B2 |
Cable with offset filler
The present invention relates to cables made of twisted conductor pairs. More specifically, the present invention relates to twisted pair communication cables for high-speed data communications applications. A twisted pair including at least two conductors extends along a generally longitudinal axis, with an insulation surrounding each of the conductors. The conductors are twisted generally longitudinally along the axis. A cable includes at least two twisted pairs and a filler. At least two of the cables are positioned along generally parallel axes for at least a predefined distance. The cables are configured to efficiently and accurately propagate high-speed data signals by, among other functions, limiting at least a subset of the following: impedance deviations, signal attenuation, and alien crosstalk along the predefined distance. |
| US08375689B2 |
Packaging machine using heat sealable film
The invention is a packaging machine using heat sealable film, of the type suitable for packaging the product (P) with a heat sealable film or net (S), through the use of heat sealing rollers that make the longitudinal edge of the wrap, of cut-and-sew blades that make the two transverse edges of said wrap and of a forming tunnel that shapes said film unwound from a reel. This machine is characterized in that the above-mentioned devices and their operating accessories are all applied to and supported by a single structure, in such a way as to form a working unit in a single piece which is connected with the pin to a support, integral with a fixed base and capable of rotating angularly on a vertical plane. |
| US08375682B2 |
Gripping apparatus for capping assemblies in container packaging machines
Capping assemblies (2) of the type fitted to capping units (1a) in a machine for packaging containers filled with fluid or powdered products are equipped with a gripping apparatus (1) comprising a gripper (4) with three arms (5), each carrying an adapter (20) furnished with a pad (20b) offered in direct contact to the cap, through which the gripping action is applied. Each adapter (20) is secured to a fitting (17, 18) insertable into a socket (16) afforded by the bottom of a structural member (6) that forms the main part of each arm (5) and is hinged to the movable head of a relative capping assembly (2); when inserted into the structural member (6), the fitting (17, 18) is retained automatically by a snap lock mechanism (12) incorporated into the arm (5), which can be released subsequently by introducing the tip of a screwdriver into a slot (18a) created in the side of the fitting (17, 18) and levering the components apart. |
| US08375679B2 |
Methods for manufacturing and packaging floor panels, devices used thereby, as well as floor panel and packed set of floor panels
A method for manufacturing floor panels, wherein boards of laminate material are formed by means of a press treatment and wherein these boards are divided into several panels, from which the actual floor panels are formed. In a press treatment of the method, at least one impression is provided in the board, which at least is employed as a guiding groove for guiding the aforementioned board or the subsequently obtained panels in further treatments. |
| US08375674B2 |
Panel, method of joining panels and method manufacturing panels
A panel has a core of wood material or a wood material/plastic mixture, a top and an underside, and two opposite side edges, which have profiles that correspond to each other such that two identically configured panels can be connected and locked to one another in the horizontal (H) and vertical (V) directions by an essentially vertical joining movement. The locking in the horizontal direction (H) can be brought about by a hook connection with an upper locking section having a hook element and a lower locking section having a hook element. The locking in the vertical direction (V) can be brought about by at least one tongue element that is formed from the core in one piece and can be moved in the horizontal direction (H). The at least one tongue element provided on the lower locking section is free with respect to the core in the direction of the opposite side edge by means of an essentially vertical slot and during the joining movement snaps in behind a locking edge extending essentially in the horizontal direction (H), which locking edge is embodied on a locking projection. The tongue element is connected to the core on at least one of its two ends in the direction of its side edge (II), and the width (B1, B2) of the locking edge is different in size over the length (L) of the opposite side edge (I). |
| US08375672B2 |
Floor panel provided with a core made of a derived timber product, a decorative layer and locking sections
The rectangular floor panel comprises a core of timber material, a decorative layer on the top and pairs of opposite side edges with complementary form-fitting hooked profiles. A receiving hook facing the lower side of the floor panel and a retaining hook located on the opposite side edge and facing the top side of the floor panel. The receiving and retaining hooks are provided with a distal side surface, one having at least one projecting interlocking element and another having an associated receiving pocket. The retaining hook is lockable with the receiving hook by vertical movement. The interlocking element and the top side of the floor panel are separated by at least one gap corresponding to one third the total thickness of the floor panel. |
| US08375671B1 |
System and method for providing basement wall stabilization
A system for stabilizing an existing basement wall includes a wall stabilizing system including a first wall anchoring device installed on a surface of the existing basement wall. The first wall anchoring device may further include a first anchoring plate fastened to a surface of the existing basement wall tethered via a substantially rigid rod to a second anchoring plate embedded underground outside the existing basement wall at a distance away from the existing basement wall. The system may include a first layer of sprayable concrete material applied over the existing basement wall. System may further include a third anchoring plate installed on a surface of the first layer of sprayable concrete material. The system may also include a second layer of sprayable concrete material applied over the first layer of sprayable concrete material. |
| US08375668B2 |
Seal guard lip and tape systems
Seal Guard Lip & Tape System provides users with an efficient means and method for applying underlay for various types of flooring. The system entails the joining of two laminate floor underlay sections to create a vapor barrier. The vapor barrier provides superior sealing by utilizing vapor barrier tape with release liner, and also reduces harm to installed flooring. Seal Guard Lip & Tape System may comprise foam underlay with vapor barrier qualities, vapor barrier tape, and release liner, all of which can be laminated together. The specially formulated vapor barrier tape can be attached to a 1½″ release liner, which may be made of siliconized paper plastic, covering approximately half of the tape. The vapor barrier tape/release liner combination may be joined to the laminate underlay with 1½″ of the tape and liner exposed beyond the foam underlay. The entire assembly can be easily affixed to an adjacent underlay sheet, thereby creating a sealing means. |
| US08375657B2 |
Insulating glazing unit comprising a curved pane
In an insulating glazing unit including at least one curved rigid pane, another rigid pane and a spacer frame joining the two panes together by an impermeable adhesive, a space is created between the panes. The spacer frame has a variable cross-section over its length, looking in the direction of its longitudinal extension, in the region of the joining between the curved rigid pane and the other rigid pane. The spacer frame, in at least in the aforementioned region, includes a plastically deformed elastomer material when the two rigid panes are mutually pressed together. |
| US08375656B2 |
Insulating sheet and refrigerated trailer components formed from same
A reinforcement sheet is formed from plurality of tape layers. Each tape layer includes unidirectional fibers held together by thermoplastic resin. The layers are fused together to form a reinforcement sheet. Because the sheet is formed without weaving, pinholes in the sheet are eliminated. As no stitching is required, the sheet can be efficiently manufactured. The sheet can be used in a variety of applications including a subpan, roof or side wall of a refrigerated trailer. |
| US08375652B2 |
Moment frame connector
A lateral bracing system is disclosed for affixing a column to a beam in a construction. The lateral bracing system includes a pair of buckling restraint blocks, one each affixed to a top and bottom flange of a beam. Each buckling restraint block includes one or more bores formed through a center of the block. The lateral bracing system further includes at least one yield link for each buckling restraint block. Each yield link includes a first end affixed to the column, and a second end fit through a bore in a buckling restraint block and affixed to an end of the buckling restraint block. |
| US08375649B2 |
Support arm for a lifting platform
The subject matter of the invention relates to a support arm for a lifting platform, comprising at least one relatively wide support arm and an extension arm telescopically slidable therein, the arms each having torsionally rigid and flexurally stiff hollow profiles, a support bearing at the rear end of the accommodating arm for the pivotable hinging connection to a lifting carriage of a column and a bearing foot at the free end of the respective extension arm. A cost-effective production of support arms in different sizes and shapes is obtained by cutting at least the accommodating arm from a steel panel blank and forming it into a hollow profile and providing it with at least one transverse reinforcement. |
| US08375646B2 |
Vertical cabinet door with flush front face
A headwall for a patient's room includes a panel having a vertically-extending front surface, an opening defined in the front surface of the headwall, and a door sized to be received in the opening. The door is vertically movable from a first position where an outer face of the door is flush with the front surface of the panel to a second position where the outer face extends parallel to the front surface and the door is positioned behind the front surface. |
| US08375644B2 |
Gutter guard
A gutter guard constructed to be mounted on a gutter and to extend from the front to the rear thereof. The gutter guard comprises a central screen portion, a front mounting portion and a rear mounting portion. The central screen portion comprises a fine mesh top layer and a bottom support layer of expanded construction with openings of a desired size. The front mounting portion comprises a first metal sheet folded over and crimped to an adjacent front end of the screen portion. The rear mounting portion comprises a second metal sheet folded over and crimped to an adjacent rear end of the screen portion. The mesh top layer is hemmed to the bottom support layer and they are thereafter roll formed in a new and improved manner to prevent damage to the mesh top layer, to control its tension, and to provide close contact of the mesh top layer to the bottom support layer. |
| US08375643B1 |
Coupler for landfill tarp
A weight system for a landfill tarpaulin. A pair of parallel chains are retained, within a pair of sleeves in the tarp. A plurality of parallel wire lines traverse the tarpaulin. A plurality of elongated coupler bodies are provided with each coupler body having a first end terminating in a eyelet and a second, opposed end terminating in a hollow recess. A fastener passes through one eyelet, and passes through the tarp. At least one wire line fastener passes through an opening in the coupler body to engage one of the wire lines received in the second, opposed end hollow recess. |
| US08375638B2 |
Sliding panel system
A roller door system includes a roller assembly configured to mount directly to a panel and move along a complementary upper guide. In particular, the roller assembly can be coupled to a coupling member embedded in the panel. The roller assembly, when coupled with the panel, can provide a smooth gliding motion for the panel. |
| US08375636B2 |
Adjustable spindle arrangement for door operating apparatus retrofit kit
A retrofit conversion kit for facilitating the conversion of a door operating apparatus conventionally mounted above the door, to a position mounted and anchored underground for operating a swinging door therefrom. The conversion to an anchored underground position is facilitated by incorporating positional adjustment mechanisms covering any or all possible adjustment dimensions. |
| US08375632B2 |
Planter that can be raised, lowered and locked to a vertical support structure
Planter systems allow for the raising, lowering, holding, locking and releasing of a planter on a vertical support structure. The planter assembly may include a carriage, to which one or more planters is attached. Guides such as cables, rollers, sliders, bristles, gaskets, carpet and registration pins maintain space between the vertical support and planter assembly and facilitate raising and lowering. A tether guided over a pulley may be retracted or extended by winding it around or unwinding it from a winch, cleat or windlass to causes the planter assembly to rise or descend. When raised to a locking height, the planter assembly causes a mechanical locking mechanism associated with the planter assembly to move into a locking position, securing the planter assembly to the vertical support. Further raising releases the locking mechanism. Attachable items such as banners, flags, hangers and the like may be coupled to the carriage. Optional irrigation supplies water to the planter assembly and/or surrounding terrain. The planter may be unitary or a plurality of assembled planter components or sections. Drain and cleanout ports facilitate draining and cleaning of the planter assembly. An optional waterfall embodiment includes a reservoir section with overflow ports to drain water into a lower reservoir at the base of the vertical support, from which a pump supplies the water back to the reservoir section of the planter assembly. A plurality of conduits for electrical, data and plumbing extend through the vertical support. |
| US08375624B2 |
Carpenter bee traps
A carpenter bee trap having at least one entrance hole, at least one plenum section connecting the at least one entrance hole to at least one receptacle adapter coupling, and least one removable receptacle attached to at least one receptacle adapter coupling, the at least one removable receptacle made of a material that admits ambient light to a greater extent than the material forming the plenum such that insects entering the trap follow a path of increasing intensity of ambient light that leads them to the receptacle. In one embodiment, existing carpenter bee nests are treated with a disclosed insecticide gel. The insecticide gel consists of a thixotropic, injectable, non-hardening, non-volatile gel blended with a pyrethroid insecticide, in effect converting the bee nest into a trap. |
| US08375620B2 |
Weapon sight having multi-munitions ballistics computer
A device has structure that can support the device on a weapon, and a range portion that specifies a range to a target. A sensor portion provides sensor information representing an orientation of the device, and an electronic control portion is responsive to sensor information from the sensor portion and a range from the range portion for calculating how to hit the target with each of first and second munitions that are different. |
| US08375617B2 |
Weapon protection device
A weapon protection device designed to enclose a weapon and protect the weapon from adverse conditions, including water, dust, dirt and sand. The weapon protection device features a material that is durable and generally puncture resistant, impervious to water, lightweight, heat resistant and tear resistant. The weapon protection device is compact when not in use and requires very little storage space. The weapon protection device features one or more pockets having a flap and an interior region under the flap. The interior region is made of a flexible, stretchy material that allows a user to fire the weapon with either hand while the weapon is inside the protection device. The weapon can be used on short notice and does not require removal of the weapon from the weapon protection device. A waterproof opening seal, such as a dry sack seal, is provided. |
| US08375613B2 |
Illuminated signboard with edge effect
An illuminated signboard with edge effect for attachment to a support member includes a light guide having a body with a first face and an opposite second face and a light entry well formed therein. The second face includes a reverse bevel edge formed along a perimeter edge of the second face. The reverse bevel provides a luminous effect and directs light forward so that exits through the first face of a light guide in the form of an illuminated perimeter and the reverse bevel also provides an luminous halo cast on the support member in a band that exceeds and surrounds a physical perimeter of the signboard as a result of light being directed in an oblique, rearward manner relative to the light guide. |
| US08375604B2 |
Article of footwear with multiple cleat systems
An article of footwear including a sole structure with multiple cleat systems is disclosed. A first cleat system has a first cleat design and one or more cleat member sets that are tuned to provide different levels of traction and flexibility to different regions of the sole structure. A second cleat system has a second cleat design and is disposed on the sole structure in a location to provide maximum traction for various playing surfaces. The sizes, material properties and arrangement of each cleat system are varied. |
| US08375602B2 |
Shoe having lace fitting structure
A shoe having a lace fitting structure of the present invention includes, as its primary components, a first side panel 51 extending in an upward or diagonally upward direction along a medial side surface in a space inside a main upper 2M so as to wrap around the medial side surface of the foot, and a second side panel 52 extending in an upward or diagonally upward direction along a lateral side surface in the space inside the main upper so as to wrap around the lateral side surface of the foot, and a third eyelet 23 provided at a tip of each of the first and second side panels 51 and 52, shoelace means passing through and engaging with the third eyelets. |
| US08375600B2 |
Ventilating footwear devices
Ventilating insole boards, self-ventilating footwear devices and self-bailing footwear articles and devices are provided. |
| US08375598B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing and maintaining dry air conditions for storage of moisture-sensitive electronic components
An enclosure for storing of moisture sensitive devices (MSD's). The enclosure includes a plurality of compartments, each continuously purged with dry air supplied by a commercially available de-humidifier. MSD's housed in said compartments are thus protected from absorbing moisture which could cause cracking of the devices after being mounted on printed circuit boards and subjected to the high temperatures associated with wave solder and solder reflow processes. |
| US08375597B2 |
Dryer and foreign material removing apparatus thereof
A dryer and a foreign material removing apparatus thereof are provided. The dryer and the foreign material removing apparatus can clearly remove foreign materials adhered to a filter using only a simple operation without the user effort. |
| US08375596B2 |
Home device for drying laundry comprising a component around which process air can flow
A domestic appliance for drying laundry having a component around which process air flows. The component has a substrate made of metal and the substrate has a surface facing the process air. The surface carries a coating that prevents adhesion of foreign particles and the coating has a surface energy of no more than 40 mN/m. The surface has a section that is directly impinged by the process air and that is essentially completely covered by the coating. The component has edges in the section covered by the coating and each of the edges is essentially completely covered by the coating. |
| US08375592B1 |
Adjustable construction square
An adjustable construction square is provided that comprising an elongated blade member and an elongated cross member. An end of the cross member has a contour, and an end of the blade member has a contour. The adjustable construction square includes a clamping jig that enables the construction square to be quickly secured into a desired angular position. The clamping jig includes a clamping device, a wedge device, and an arm that work in combination to secure the adjustable construction square in a desired position. |
| US08375589B2 |
Folding knife
A folding knife in exemplary embodimentsTong comprises a handle portion, a blade, a locking cross-bolt, and a motion limiting member coupled to the handle. When the blade is in the closed position, the motion limiting member is in a first position that prevents the cross-bolt from moving to its locked position. When pivoting the blade to the open position, the motion limiting member moves to a second position that does not prevent the cross-bolt from moving to its locked position. A biased safety mechanism can also be used to block the cross-bolt from moving to an unlocked position. |
| US08375588B2 |
Automatically retracting safety carton cutter
A preferred embodiment of a safety carton cutter comprises a first frame member pivotably connected to a second frame member to form a housing. Inside the housing mounted on the first frame member is a blade receptacle having a latch, a blade carrier, a biasing member and a follower. The follower is adapted to communicate with a cam profile located on a cam in the first frame member. The configuration of the follower and cam profile provides an extending and retracting mechanism that keeps the blade in a constant exposed position before and during the cutting process, and then allows the blade to retract immediately after the cutting process is complete. |
| US08375586B2 |
Method of manufacturing an article of jewelry having repulsive magnetic elements
An article of jewelry and method of manufacture, including a pliable strand; and a plurality of precious or semiprecious objects movably positioned along the pliable strand. Each of the plurality of objects including a magnetic insert extending between opposing surfaces, which itself is formed from two magnets separated by a magnetic stabilizer and aligned such that the opposing ends of the magnetic insert have the same polarity thereby creating repulsive forces between each of the plurality of objects along the strand. |
| US08375582B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing and/or repairing an integrally bladed rotor by inductive diffusion welding
A method and apparatus for the fabrication and/or repair of an integrally bladed rotor, specifically of an integrally bladed gas turbine rotor, is disclosed. At least one rotor blade is joined to a main rotor body for fabrication and/or repair. The joining is carried out by diffusion welding. |
| US08375581B2 |
Support structure for linear friction welding
A method and apparatus for fixturing an airfoil stub during linear friction welding are described. Critical clamping support structures are manufactured by a direct digital manufacturing process such as direct metal laser sintering to minimize time and expense of the process. |
| US08375576B2 |
Method for manufacturing wafer scale heat slug system
A method for manufacturing a wafer scale heat slug system includes: dicing an integrated circuit from a semiconductor wafer; forming a heat slug blank equivalent in size to the semiconductor wafer; dicing the heat slug blank to produce a heat slug equivalent in size to the integrated circuit; attaching the integrated circuit to a substrate; attaching the heat slug to the integrated circuit; and encapsulating the integrated circuit. |
| US08375575B2 |
Method of fabricating a lightweight audio system housing assembly
A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a fold-up case formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case is of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. Side wall closure members are extruded of aluminum defining self-engaging attachment features for affixing to the case, providing electrical self-grounding with the wire screen and thermal grounding with internal power devices. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. |
| US08375571B2 |
Component assembly for surface mounting
A component assembly (10) used for picking and placing the component assembly includes a component (14-30) having a geometry incapable of being picked and placed or having a geometry that is unstable when placed through a reflow oven. The assembly includes a support member such as a detachable clip (11) having a pick and placeable surface such as a top flat surface (12). The clip attaches to the component to modify a center of gravity to form a stable component assembly once attached to the support member. The component assembly can further include conductive elements (such as a center conductor (17) of a coaxial cable (16) and at least one ground conductor (15)) used for registration with apertures or other surface locations on a substrate (19). |
| US08375566B2 |
Method of providing arc-resistant dry type transformer enclosure
Methods of providing arc resistant switchgear enclosures for dry-type transformers are provided. The enclosures have one or more arc-resistant features, including arc channels, arc fault dampers, and arc fault plenums. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises providing a base structure with a dry-type transformer seated thereon, providing walls and a roof, wherein at least the front wall contains at least one longitudinal seam covered by an arc channel. |
| US08375562B2 |
Manufacturing method of rotating electric machine and rotating electric machine
A manufacturing method of a rotating electric machine includes the steps of: preparing a plurality of split stator cores annularly arranged at intervals in a circumferential direction so that their inner end portions are aligned with an imaginary circle and a support member positioned inside the imaginary circle in a radial direction to support the inner end portions of split stator cores; mounting a fastening member on outer peripheries of split stator cores to press respective split stator cores inward in the radial direction; and displacing split stator cores pressed by fastening member inward in the radial direction while the support member is supporting split stator cores. |
| US08375560B2 |
Method for manufacturing a condenser microphone
A method for manufacturing a condenser microphone includes forming a diaphragm module using microelectromechanical system (MEMS) techniques. The diaphragm module includes a diaphragm that is deformable by energy of sound waves, and a diaphragm spacer that extends from one side of the diaphragm and controls a tension of the diaphragm. The method further includes providing a backplate with vent holes, aligning the vent holes of the backplate with a central region of the diaphragm, and connecting the backplate to the diaphragm spacer to construct a transducer unit. The diaphragm spacer, the diaphragm and the backplate cooperate to form an air chamber in fluid communication with an environment external to the condenser microphone. The backplate and the diaphragm cooperate to form a condenser. The method further includes enclosing the transducer unit in a housing that includes a shell and a circuit board to form the condenser microphone. |
| US08375554B2 |
Method for joining components by means of tensioning bolts
A method for joining components using tensioning bolts, wherein the pressure is linearly increased over time when the tension bolt is hydraulically tensioned by means of a tensioning device. When a target value (Pmax) is reached, the volume is blocked so that no more hydraulic oil is supplied. The pressure decreases when the components show a setting behaviour during a holding time (tH). Pumping is resumed when a lower threshold value (PI) is reached, resulting in a pressure increase up to the target value (Pmax). |
| US08375549B2 |
Method for establishing a nail connection between two non-prepunched components
A method is described for establishing a nail connection between two components as well as a nail therefor. The nail is driven through the non-prepunched components in the joining area at a high speed such that the nail tip fully penetrates both components and forms a toric-shaped material bulge in the nail-head-side component, which protrudes into a circular groove of the nail head, and a crater-shaped material bulge is formed in the component facing away from the nail head, which protrudes in the opposite direction. |
| US08375547B2 |
Device for securing trim to a seat
A seat assembly machine includes a plurality of grippers useful for securing a piece of trim to a seat cushion. In a disclosed example, each gripper includes a plurality of prongs that are moved between neutral, closed and released positions that each facilitate a different portion of the assembly process. In one example, each gripper includes a sleeve within which the prongs are moveable so that the prongs are manipulated between the neutral, closed and released positions. A disclosed example sleeve includes an interior channel having a contour that manipulates the prongs between the different positions based on the location of the prongs within the sleeve. |
| US08375545B2 |
Adjustable automotive suspension tool
An automotive tool serving as a pinch bar and lever for gripping an automotive suspension workpiece between first and second tool elements and an extended handle for increasing force to free the workpiece from its fastened position. Alternately, the first and second tool elements can be positioned against opposing workpieces to free one from the other again using the extended handle to amplify the applied force causing separation. The tool is designed for the automotive repair industry in the removal and installation of suspension members, such as CV joints, ball joints, struts, etc that require the dismantling of parts that have bonded due to dirt, wear and electrolytic reactions, such as oxidation, resulting in time intensive and hazardous tasks depending on the inventiveness of the mechanic in performing the separation task. |
| US08375544B1 |
Railroad pin removal system
A railroad pin removal system for efficiently removing a pin from a base plate of a railroad system so as to free the rail from the base plate. The railroad pin removal system generally includes a frame, an actuator secured to the frame and a clamping mechanism at least partially secured to the actuator, wherein the clamping mechanism is operable via the actuator. The clamping mechanism includes a movable jaw and a fixed jaw to slidably move a railroad pin away from a rail so as to be released from a base plate. |
| US08375542B2 |
Method for the manufacture of metallic components
When manufacturing slender metallic components (9) by cutting shaping from pre-manufactured forgings (1), the respective component (9) upon finish machining by cutting is dimensionally inspected to determine deformations (a) induced by manufacture, as compared to the nominal position, and on the basis of the measuring result the position of tensile stress areas (4) in rim layers of the component (9) is determined. For positionally balancing the component (9), the tensile stress areas (4) causing deformation of the component (9) are subjected to controlled shot peening at a specified intensity. |
| US08375539B2 |
Method of manufacturing complimentary metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitors
A method of manufacturing a low capacitance density, high voltage MIM capacitor and the high density MIM capacitor. The method includes depositing a plurality of plates and a plurality of dielectric layers interleaved with one another. The method further includes etching a portion of an uppermost plate of the plurality of plates while protecting other portions of the uppermost plate. The protected other portions of the uppermost plate forms a top plate of a first metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor and the etching exposes a top plate of a second MIM capacitor. |
| US08375534B2 |
Cremation container
A cremation container foldable into a compact configuration for shipping comprises a bottom, a pair of side walls connected to the bottom, a pair of end walls connected to the bottom, and a lid removably positioned atop the pair of side walls and the pair of end walls. Each wall of the pair of side walls and each wall of the pair of end walls comprises an upper panel and a lower panel hingedly connected together. The upper panels of the pair of end walls are foldable downwardly toward the bottom, and the upper panels of the pair of side walls are foldable downwardly atop the upper panels of the pair of end walls to thereby compactly configure the container for shipping. |
| US08375533B2 |
Fastening system having multiple engagement orientations
A fastening system has a first fastening member and a second fastening member. The first member has a retaining element and a substrate element. The retaining element includes a proximal edge and a distal edge and is attached to the substrate element along a line of attachment. The second fastening member has an inboard portion, an outboard portion, and an elongated opening disposed between the inboard and outboard portions. The elongated opening is configured such that at least part of the retaining element is capable of passing through the elongated opening when the retaining element is in a first orientation and when the retaining element is in a second orientation. |
| US08375529B1 |
Touch engageable fastener
A self-engaging touch fastener, separable by peeling, includes portions with a generally thin shell structure and a closely spaced array of bilaterally undercut generally convex protrusions which are directed by proximate oblique stem walls into an interlocking relationship with corresponding receptors when the portions are compressed. Touch fastening products have a non-grabbing non-abrasive texture and may be manufactured of thin plastic films or similar low cost materials using a simple die-cutting/forming method, thus providing a user friendly reliable and economic alternative to hook-and-loop and other presently available fastening systems for connecting flexible materials for applications including packaging, apparel, and disposable products. The device may be furnished as an independent product, as an integrally formed or molded segment of a primary product, or attached to rigid or flexible substrates. An apparatus and method for economically manufacturing such device is also provided. |
| US08375526B2 |
Rope management device
A rope management device includes features allowing for transition from a rope clamping position to a rope unclamped position when under load. Included is a teeter bar having a pivot axis allowing for application of friction on a section of rope to hold a load in place and then when rope is pulled through the device the load is maintained while allowing the teeter bar to pivot to eliminate friction on the rope. |
| US08375524B2 |
Tension reducer for cable wrap security device
A security device includes a housing containing a ratchet mechanism and a rotatable spool for storing a plurality of cable loops which extend outwardly from a plurality of openings formed in the housing and wrapped around the sides of a box-like object. A collar is mounted on the bottom of the housing and has openings adjacent each of the housing opening requiring the cable loops to abruptly change direction after exiting the housing and passing either beneath or above the collar before extending along the secured object. This abrupt change of direction reduces the amount of force which are exerted on the cable loops from being transmitted onto the ratchet mechanism. In alternate embodiments, adjacent cable loops pass through one or a pair of rings which cause a change of direction in the cable loops to reduce the transmission of forces onto the ratchet mechanism. |
| US08375523B2 |
Break-away bundling device
A bundling device includes a molding of a polymeric material. A flexible strap includes multiple teeth each including a notch. The strap is frangible at the notch of any one of the teeth. A strap engagement portion connected to the strap includes first and second flexible wings defining a strap receiving aperture therebetween receiving the flexible strap in a first direction. The flexible wings engage successive ones of the teeth to oppose removal of the strap in an opposite second direction. The first and second flexible wings each include a first arm having a first raised portion extending into the strap receiving portion; and a second arm having a second raised portion axially displaced with respect to the first raised portion and oriented out of plane with respect to the first raised portion. |
| US08375519B1 |
Signal activated door hinge
A Signal Activated Door Hinge is typically a three-hinge door's central hinge. The lower part of the hinge plates attaches to an upper sprocket pinned to a lower sprocket which supports a central drop shaft extending to the bottom of the cover tube. An annular drop weight slides on the drop shaft, latching to a pivoted release lever near the drop shaft top. A bi-metallic muscle wire controls the pivoted release lever. As electric signal reaches the muscle wire, the release lever rotates away from the drop weight which unlatches and slides down the drop shaft under gravity, impacting the bottom of the drop shaft and pulling it down to open the sprocket connections. A coiled spiral activation spring inside the upper sprocket unwinds, rotating a hinge plate. To reset, the signal is canceled and the drop weight raised to the latched position in the release lever. |
| US08375518B2 |
Furniture hinge with rotation damper
A furniture hinge has at least two fitting parts for fixing the hinge to furniture parts. One of the fitting parts is designed as a hinge arm with at least one joint lever which pivots during the hinge movement and a rotation damper for damping a hinge movement. A slide, movably mounted on the hinge arm, may be driven by the pivotable joint lever, and the slide acts on the rotation damper by means of a transmission mechanism (T). |
| US08375515B2 |
Caster
A caster has a ring-shaped main body, two ring-shaped wheels provided on both side end parts of the main body and two ring-shaped holders by which the two ring-shaped wheels are rotatably fitted on the main body. Each of the wheels has a first sliding face on an inner side of an inner circumferential part and a second sliding face on an outer side thereof. A first dry bearing is provided between an outer circumferential face of a ring-shaped flange provided on each of the both side end parts of the main body and the first sliding face, a second dry bearing is provided between an outer circumferential face of a ring-shaped flange provided on an outer end part of each of the holders and the second sliding face. The caster provides a high mechanical stability, durability, impact resistance and heat resistance. |
| US08375514B2 |
Fastening assembly for securing floor mat to carpet
A fastening assembly for securing a floor mat to a carpet in a vehicle includes a first fastener that is attached to the carpet, a knob that is attached to the first fastener, and a second fastener that is attached to a floor mat. A knob base is integrally provided in a first carpet grommet of the first fastener. The knob comprises a knob shank that is coupled to be able to turn about its axis inside the knob base between an unlocked position and a locked position. The knob base includes projections which fit into and mate with channels in knob coupling latching pawls of the knob base; thus, the knob holding force is enhanced, and a clicking sensation confirms completion of the attachment operation. |
| US08375513B2 |
Grommet
A grommet includes an inner tube, an outer tube coupled through an annular coupling section to the inner tube and provided with a slant wall section. The outer tube is provided on a larger diameter end of the slant wall section with a larger thickness portion and an annular latch recess between the larger diameter end of the slant wall section and the larger thickness portion. The slant wall section has a plurality of stepped projecting ribs that extend radially from a smaller diameter end of the slant wall section to the larger diameter end. Each of the projecting ribs is provided on a stepped top surface with a first slant surface that is inclined down to the side surface end of the latch recess, and is provided on both side surfaces with a second slant surface and a third slant surface that are inclined down from the top surface across the first slant surface. The first, second, and third slant surfaces form a three- side-cut-away portion. |
| US08375511B2 |
Attachment for a vacuum cleaning appliance
An attachment for a vacuum cleaning appliance includes a head and a handle connected to the head. The head includes a bristle carrier having a plurality of bristles, and a bristle cover having a plurality of apertures. A conduit is connectable to a vacuum cleaning appliance for conveying an air flow from the bristle cover towards the appliance. The head includes a suction opening of the conduit and the handle includes an air bleed into the conduit. An actuator effects relative movement between the bristle carrier and the bristle cover from a stowed configuration in which the bristles are retracted relative to the bristle cover to a deployed configuration in which the bristles protrude from the bristle cover through the apertures. A mechanism is provided for controlling the air flow through the air bleed, for example depending on the configuration of the bristle carrier and the bristle cover so that when the head is in its deployed configuration there is a relatively low air flow into the suction opening to prevent the head from being pushed down against, for example, the skin of the pet being groomed, whereas when the head is in its stowed configuration it is preferable to have a relatively high air flow into the suction opening in order to draw the hair collected between the bristles into the conduit. |
| US08375508B2 |
Torque balancer for a surface cleaning head
An upright surface cleaning apparatus has a front end, a rear end and opposed lateral sides and a surface cleaning head having a dirt inlet and rear wheels. The rear wheels have an axis of rotation and a radius. The surface cleaning apparatus also includes an upper section and an upper section mount. The upper section mount movably mounts the upper section to the surface cleaning head at a position forward of the axis of rotation of the rear wheels. The surface cleaning head is movable between an floor cleaning position and a storage position. The surface cleaning apparatus includes an air flow path extending from the dirt inlet to a clean air outlet with a suction motor and a treatment member provided in the air flow path. The air flow path comprises a hose extending between the surface cleaning head and the upper section. |
| US08375505B2 |
Apparatus erasing blackboard through areas
The present invention wipes a writing board through areas. A teacher can wipe an area of a blackboard while writing on another area. Thus, a writing board can be flexibly used with convenience obtained and time saved. |
| US08375504B2 |
Wiper blade for vehicle
A wiper blade for a vehicle may include a secondary lever including a lever rivet hole, an adapter including a guide rib formed in the longitudinal direction thereof, a locking projection formed at the rear thereof, and an adapter rivet hole, a primary cover including a guide groove formed in the longitudinal direction thereof and into which the guide rib of the adapter is inserted, and a locking groove into which the locking projection of the adapter is inserted, and a hinge member penetrating the lever rivet hole and the adapter rivet hole and pivotally coupling the adapter and secondary lever. |
| US08375502B2 |
Multi-material mop head
A mop head for cleaning and drying floors and other surfaces includes a first portion formed primarily of microfiber material or similar materials and a second portion formed primarily of chamois material or similar materials. The first portion is configured for cleaning a surface as it is moved across it and the second portion is configured for drying the surface as it is moved it. |
| US08375501B1 |
Shoe-attached brush system for cleaning golf clubs
A brush system for attaching to a shoe having a base with a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side edge, a plurality of bristles extending upwardly from the top surface, a clip divided into an arced portion and a flat portion, the arced portion extends outwardly from the side edge of the base and curves around underneath the bottom surface of the base and the flat portion is positioned below and parallel to the bottom surface of the base, a gap exists between the clip and the bottom surface, the arced portion of the clip has a middle bar and a first and a second side bar, a gap exists both between the first side bar, the middle bar, and the second side bar, and a slit in the first side bar and the second side bar of the arced portion. |
| US08375500B1 |
Window maintenance device for large vehicles
A windshield maintenance assembly having a telescoping pole assembly that is selectively extendable and retractable. An upper end of the windshield maintenance assembly preferably includes a reversible snow brush and an ice scraper. The windshield maintenance assembly further includes a long strap that is attached at the top of the windshield maintenance assembly which allows a user to pull down or pull back on the upper end to increase operating forces. The windshield maintenance assembly beneficially enables a plurality of attachable heads, such as a squeegee, a broom, or a sponge, to be attached to the upper end to enable other maintenance functions. |
| US08375498B2 |
Swimming pool and deck brush
A transversely elongated mounting bar curved rearwardly from a centerline and mounting longitudinally projecting bristles on the front side thereof to terminate in free ends deposed in a working plane. |
| US08375493B2 |
One piece foam mattress core encasement
A one piece foam mattress core or innerspring encasement is a single contiguous piece of foam having a mattress core or base and four perimeter side supports and which fits with a mattress core or innerspring to provide an integrated mattress construction. The mattress core or base of the encasement is positioned below the mattress core or innerspring proximate to or against a bottom surface. The mattress core or base and the perimeter side supports are connected along fold lines or grooves in the single piece of foam so that the perimeter side walls can be folded to vertical positions about a perimeter of the mattress core or innerspring. The single piece of foam of the encasement is producible in different sizes to fit with different size mattress cores or innersprings. |
| US08375490B2 |
Baby changing station
A baby supporting device is provided which includes a frame. The frame includes a first portion for mounting onto a wall and a second portion pivotally coupled to the first portion and rotatable between a first position and a second position. A first stop member extends from the first portion, and a second stop member extends from the second portion, such that when the second stop member engages the first stop member it stops the second portion at the second position. A first surface covers at least a portion of the first portion, and a second surface covers at least a portion of the second portion. |
| US08375488B2 |
Adjustable bed frame
An adjustable bed frame assembly includes a center frame comprising two substantially parallel side frame members connected by two substantially parallel connector frame members. The adjustable bed frame assembly also includes a base frame that includes a plurality of legs for mounting on a floor is rigidly affixed to the center frame. The adjustable bed frame assembly further includes a head frame that comprises two substantially parallel side frame members connected by at least one connector frame member. The adjustable bed frame assembly also includes an actuator for raising and lowering the head frame. |
| US08375487B1 |
Bed wedge
A triangular prism-shaped wedge, fashioned of a sturdy foam core with soft and malleable properties, fashioned to occupy the space that commonly exists between the head of a mattress and the wall or headboard that the mattress is binding against. It is configured to occupy this space, aided via the force of friction, to ensure that items such as pillows, remote controls, and other bedside items do not fall behind the mattress, and onto the floor. It may be configured with an assortment of interchangeable pockets, as well as an embedded stereo speaker system. |
| US08375486B2 |
Swaddle accessory
A swaddle accessory to restrain an infant or child's arms has a single panel that is both wide and long enough to wrap entirely both of the infant's arms, hook and loop fasteners to secure the arm restraints and pockets to contain the hands to prevent them from breaking out of a swaddle made from a receiving blanket or other swaddle device. |
| US08375485B2 |
System, method and apparatus for treating back pain during rest
An application for a system, method and apparatus that directs light and heat towards an area of pain of a person while the person rests on a section of furniture (e.g., sleeps on a mattress). The light and heat are provided by an array of LEDS that are removably situated within a cavity that is, for example, formed or cut into the furniture/mattress. |
| US08375479B2 |
Apparatus for recycling wasted heat using waste hot water
The present invention relates to an apparatus for recycling wasted heat using waste hot water that includes: a tub that charges and discharges waste hot water; a heat exchange unit that transfers the heat of waste hot water to cold water supplied to a shower bat; and an upper cover that the open upper portion of the tub, and is friendly to the environment by reducing the amount of fuel consumed to supply hot water and it is possible to reduce the fuel cost by the reduced amount of fuel consumption. |
| US08375477B2 |
Water feature for wave pools
The present invention relates to wave pools and diversion channels that capture high kinetic energy portions of a wave generated within the wave pool, and redirects the captured wave portions to the vicinity of wave formation, preferably timed so as reinforce a subsequently generated wave. The high kinetic energy within the diversion channel creates an additional feature in the form of an action river for riders of a wave pool to enjoy. At the same time, capturing of portions of the wave reduces the backwash of the wave and stabilizes the level of water within the wave pool, especially for embodiments with wave generators and pools capable of high volume waves. Riders may enter the diversion channel and ride from the distal, beach end of the wave pool to the proximal, wave generating end. |
| US08375469B2 |
Adjustable hat
A hat includes a crown, a band and a resilient member. The crown includes a front having a first height; a rear having a second height wherein the second height is greater than the first height; an interior including a forward portion; an exterior including a rearward portion; and a circumferential bottom edge separating the interior and exterior. The band is coupled to the interior of the crown. The resilient member includes a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion between the first and second ends, wherein the first end extends through the exterior rearward portion of the crown, and wherein the second end extends through the exterior rearward portion of the crown, and wherein the intermediate portion is positioned between the band and the interior of the crown. |
| US08375466B2 |
Suicide prevention clothing
An article of clothing that can be worn by suicidal inmates and medical patients is provided. In one embodiment, the article of clothing is comprised of a high-strength fabric consisting of an outer layer of tear-proof material, an inner layer of soft material, and a third layer of insulating material between the outer and inner layers that provides warmth and bulk to the fabric. The three layers are joined together with a nylon thread. The article of clothing is further comprised of at least one sleeve section that is removably attached to at least in part to a torso section, wherein the at least one sleeve section detaches from the torso section to prevent a user from injuring or killing himself. In another embodiment, the article of clothing is comprised of a non-woven cellular material with very low tensile strength that cannot effectively be fashioned into a rope or noose. |
| US08375464B2 |
Isolation garment and footwear
An isolation gown is provided and includes a body cover portion that is open near the knee area of the wearer. The gown includes two sleeves, wherein each of the sleeves is configured to cover a wearer's arm and terminate in an arm opening located proximate a wearer's wrist, such that each arm of the wearer is covered by the sleeves to an area proximate the wearer's wrist, wherein each of the arm openings includes a continuous elastic portion surrounding the arm opening to resiliently contact the wearer's arm, and a collar defining a neck opening, wherein the collar defines a collar opening and includes a configurable connecting article to close the collar opening, wherein each of the body cover portion and the two sleeves are constructed from a material impervious to liquids. |
| US08375462B2 |
Visor assembly for a helment
A visor assembly for an aviation helmet includes a lens, lens/strap anti-tear interface assemblies, retainer plates, and attachment strap assemblies. A friction strip mounted on the brim of the helmet operates to increase the friction between the visor lens and the helmet. The combined function of the friction strip and the configuration of the strap assemblies operate to maintain the visor in a deployed (as-worn) positioned in front of the wearer's face, even during high speed wind blasts of up to 600 KEAS (Knots Equivalent Air Speed). |
| US08381309B2 |
Methods and systems for secure communication over a public network
A method and system are presented for providing communication between users over a communication network. A database is provided which comprises verified data relating to identity of a plurality of individuals. The database is accessible through the network. The verified data allows for authenticating the identity of the individuals. One or more levels of permitted communications between individuals in said database and the user are defined on the basis of said verification. |
| US08381302B1 |
Systems and methods for translating non-comparable values into comparable values for use in heuristics
An exemplary method for translating non-comparable values into comparable values for use in heuristics may include: 1) identifying a data object, 2) identifying a non-comparable value associated with the data object, 3) translating the non-comparable value into a comparable value, and then 4) processing the comparable value in a heuristic. In some examples, the heuristic may include a malware-detection heuristic, such as a decision tree. |
| US08381298B2 |
Malware detention for suspected malware
A method and system for detecting and managing potential malware utilizes a preliminary signature to scan content and detect potential malware content based upon characteristics that match the preliminary signature. The detected content is detained for a predetermined period of time. If an updated signature is not received, the detained content may be purged, released or quarantined, based upon predetermined content policy. If an updated signature is received, the detained content is released from detention and rescanned with the updated signature. The content is then treated in accordance with the content policy, and again, can be purged, released, or quarantined. |
| US08381295B2 |
Systems and methods for correlating and distributing intrusion alert information among collaborating computer systems
Systems and methods for correlating and distributing intrusion alert information among collaborating computer systems are provided. These systems and methods provide an alert correlator and an alert distributor that enable early signs of an attack to be detected and rapidly disseminated to collaborating systems. The alert correlator utilizes data structures to correlate alert detections and provide a mechanism through which threat information can be revealed to other collaborating systems. The alert distributor uses an efficient technique to group collaborating systems and then pass data between certain members of those groups according to a schedule. In this way data can be routinely distributed without generating excess traffic loads. |
| US08381294B2 |
Storage device with website trust indication
A portable storage device can comprise a web page confidence module and a device controller. The web page confidence module may be configured to receive a web page address and determine a trust level status associated with the web page address. The device controller may be configured to indicate a trust level status based on the trust level determination. |
| US08381292B1 |
System and method for branding a phishing website using advanced pattern matching
A system and method for enhancing spam avoidance efficiency and brand protection by automatically identifying a phishing website without human intervention. The system receives a stream of suspect Internet urls for potential phishing websites and uses a comparison strategy to determine whether the potential phishing website has already be labeled as a bonefid phishing website. A comparison system is utilized in which similarity data is calculated on various elements of the potential phishing website and then compared to similarity data of known phishing websites and known brands to determine whether the site needs human intervention. Various types of categorization structures and notification strategies are utilized in the system, including the adjustment of threshold comparison values in response to the identification of a potential phishing site displaying a brand of interest. |
| US08381291B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for mitigating email address harvest attacks by positively acknowledging email to invalid email addresses
A method of detecting and responding to an email address harvest attack at an Internet Service Provider (ISP) email system includes counting a number of failed email address look-ups during a single Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) session associated with an originating Internet Protocol (IP) address and responding to the originating IP address with a positive acknowledgement that an otherwise invalid email address exists when the count of the number of failed email address look-ups exceeds a threshold. |
| US08381288B2 |
Restricted component access to application memory
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, systems, and articles for restricting access to memory of an application by a component of the application, for example, pluggable code modules. Other embodiments may also be described and claimed. |
| US08381287B2 |
Trusted records using secure exchange
A secure method and apparatus for data exchange that allows a client's or patient's financial data, medical records, and other information to be stored on a card-shaped compact disk, with multiple levels of encryption to preserve privacy. The trusted record disc can be read on any computer with a network or internet connection, but access to the information on the disc is restricted according to a password protected hierarchical encryption policy. In order to obtain access to the restricted information, an individual user needs to enter a unique password that is sent to a central server. The server confirms the password and returns an electronic key to the user's computer. The electronic key unlocks the encryption and allow the user to view only the information that is permitted (under federal patient, financial privacy or other laws). Thus, in the medical setting, physicians can review the patient's entire medical record and make changes to it. Nurses, pharmacists, and billing clerks have differing predetermined levels of access. |
| US08381284B2 |
System and method for enforcing security policies in a virtual environment
A method in one example implementation includes intercepting a request associated with an execution of an object (e.g., a kernel module or a binary) in a computer configured to operate in a virtual machine environment. The request is associated with a privileged domain of the computer that operates logically below one or more operating systems. The method also includes verifying an authorization of the object by computing a checksum for the object and comparing the checksum to a plurality of stored checksums in a memory element. The execution of the object is denied if it is not authorized. In other embodiments, the method can include evaluating a plurality of entries within the memory element of the computer, wherein the entries include authorized binaries and kernel modules. In other embodiments, the method can include intercepting an attempt from a remote computer to execute code from a previously authorized binary. |
| US08381281B2 |
Authenticating a remote host to a firewall
A computer implemented method, system, and computer program product for authenticating a remote host to a firewall. The illustrative embodiments allow a requesting host separated from a target host by a firewall to determine, based on exception handling code, that an original request sent to the target host has been intercepted and blocked by the firewall. The illustrative embodiments also allow the requesting host to automatically provide credentials that authenticate the requesting host to the firewall. The illustrative embodiments are particularly applicable in situations when requests are invoked without any user interaction, such as when a timer expires. In such a case, there is no user to provide the needed credentials to authenticate the requesting host. The illustrative embodiments enable a requesting host to access a target host without requiring user intervention. |
| US08381277B2 |
Home networking using LTE radio
A system and methodology that facilitates management of a single identity and billing relationship for multiple UE (user equipment) associated with a subscriber is provided. Specifically, each of the multiple UEs can employ LTE (Long Term Evolution) radio technology to authenticate and register with a femto access point. Further, the transport level billing associated with the multiple UE can be facilitated by the femto access point by employing a femto id (identity) and/or credentials. Moreover, the femto access point can be employed by the multiple UEs as a network hub and can be employed by the UEs to perform authentication to connect to a core network. In addition, the femto access point can determine an authorized IP cloud associated with a registered UE and allow the registered UE to access only the authorized IP cloud. |
| US08381270B1 |
Network configuration and authorization
Various aspects of this disclosure are directed to receiving, by a first computing device, one or more communications from a second device. The one or more communications may be transmitted using a short range wireless communication protocol. The one or more communications may include network configuration information usable to connect the first computing device to a first network and network authentication information. The first computing device may configure the first computing device to connect to the first network using the network configuration information. The first computing device may automatically connect to the first network by at least submitting, using a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) authentication mechanism, the authentication information to a third computing device that manages access to a second network accessible using the first network. |
| US08381266B2 |
Method and system for machine identification
A method and system for identifying a machine used for an online session with an online provider includes executing a lightweight fingerprint code from a provider interface during an online session to collect and transmit machine and session information; generating and storing a machine signature or identity including a machine effective speed calibration (MESC) which may be used to identify the machine when the machine is used in a subsequent online session by a method of matching the machine signature and MESC to a database of machine identities, analyzing a history of the machine's online sessions to identify one or more response indicators, such as fraud indicators, and executing one or more responses to the response indicators, such as disabling a password or denying an online transaction, where the response and response indicator may be provider-designated. |
| US08381262B2 |
Blocking of spoofed E-mail
Embodiments are directed towards detecting and reporting use by a domain of a message authentication mechanism, such as DomainKeys (DK), and/or DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM), and enabling subsequent blocking of messages based, in part, on its usage. When a message is received by an inbound message server, a message source is determined for the message. In one embodiment, the message source is a domain name associated with the sender of the message. Statistics are recorded about the message, including the message source, whether the message is suspect, includes a forged source identifier, employs DK/DKIM message authentication, and the like. The reports may then be sent to various message sources to enable them to determine the extent of use of DK/DKIM message authentication, and to selectively block, re-direct, or forward the messages based, in part, on the use of DK/DKIM message authentication mechanism. |
| US08381261B2 |
Method for selecting policy decision functional entity in a resource and admission control system
The present invention discloses a method for selecting policy decision functional entity in the Resource and Admission Control System. The method includes that: for resource and admission control in the PULL mode, after the Transport Resource Control Function Entity (TRC-FE) receives a resource request message from the Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) or after the Policy Enforcement Function Entity (PE-FE) receives a transport layer signaling sent by CPE, if the TRC-FE or PE-FE is interacting with more than one Policy Decision Functional Entities (PD-FEs), the TRC-FE or the PE-FE may select a PD-FE according to the stored identification information of PD-FE or statically configured PD-FE, and send a resource decision request message to the selected PD-FE. With the application of the present invention, in resource and admission control in the PULL mode, after receiving the resource request initiated by CPE through the transport layer signaling message, the TRC-FE or PE-FE may select the exact PD-FE to implement the resource reservation process, thereby resolving the problem in prior art that during the resource and admission control process the TRC-FE or PE-FE can not select the exact PD-FE to send resource decision requests. |
| US08381260B2 |
Separate addressing of a media content receiver and an installed removable circuit device
A media content receiver receives a message including an address. The receiver processes the address to determine whether the address is associated with the media content receiver. Additionally, if a removable circuit device is installed in the receiver, the receiver processes the address to determine whether the address is associated with the installed removable circuit device. If the address is associated with the media content receiver, the receiver processes the message. If the address is associated with the removable circuit device, the receiver transfers the message to the removable circuit device, which then processes the message. |
| US08381254B2 |
Method and apparatus for synchronizing data streams containing audio, video and/or other data
Several data streams contain video, audio and/or other data. Some of the data streams are pre-recorded in a multiplex on a storage medium while other data streams are located out of the data stream multiplex on the storage medium. The data streams are synchronized using a navigation file (List_of_PlayItems), which comprises descriptors (PlayItems, SubPlayItems) pointing to parts of said data streams, wherein said descriptors define the arrangement in time for said data streams by means of data sub stream paths. |
| US08381253B2 |
Content placeholder markers
Content placeholder markers may be provided. A request to insert a placeholder marker may be received during output of a content asset to a device. If memory storage is available to record the content asset, the asset may be recorded. Otherwise, the placeholder marker may be stored and/or used to resume playback of the content asset from another source. |
| US08381252B2 |
Network systems and methods to pull video
A system for pulling video content over a data communications network. The system comprises at least one video display, at least one video file server containing a number of video files to be selectively displayed on the at least one video display, at least one media server to communicate with one or more video displays, a web client to communicate with each media server through a network to configure at least one playlist in the media server, each playlist including at least one identifier to select one or more of the number of video files, and each media server being adapted to pull video content from a selected video file in a selected video file server based on the playlist and to translate the pulled video content into a video output signal suitable for display on the video display. |
| US08381246B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing electronic program guides
A method of generating on a display device an electronic program guide for broadcast channels. Electronic program guide information for a plurality of broadcast channels is received at an electronic terminal from a broadcast media server. The electronic program guide information includes live video streams and/or snapshot pictures from programs that are presently being broadcast on a plurality of broadcast channels. A graphical arrangement of a plurality of objects is generated on the display device. Each of the objects is associated with a different one of the broadcast channels. The live video stream and/or the snapshot picture from the program that is presently being broadcast on the associated broadcast channel is displayed on a defined surface of each of the associated objects. A three-dimensional graphical arrangement may be generated from the objects. Each of the objects may extend with a respective virtual depth into the display device that is controlled to indicate to a user how much time remains in the program that is presently being broadcast on the associated broadcast channel. Related electronic terminals and media servers are disclosed. |
| US08381245B2 |
Program guide image objects for media content access systems and methods
An exemplary system includes a media content processing subsystem configured to provide a program guide including a matrix of cells associated with a plurality of media content instances, and a selector object within the program guide. The selector object is configured to select one of the cells such that the cells in the matrix include a selected cell and at least one unselected cell. The subsystem is further configured to provide at least one image object within the at least one unselected cell. The image object represents the media content instance associated with the unselected cell. In certain embodiments, the image object includes a video content stream. The subsystem is further configured to provide a graphical user interface to a display for presentation to a user, the graphical user interface including at least a portion of the program guide and the image object. |
| US08381241B2 |
Methods and apparatus to maintain audience privacy while determining viewing of video-on-demand programs
Methods and apparatus to maintain audience privacy while determining viewing of video-on-demand (VOD) programs are disclosed. An example method disclosed herein comprises obtaining subscriber metering data from a site metering device monitoring presentation of VOD content at a first subscriber site, obtaining server metering data from a VOD server, the server metering data including identification information for a plurality of subscriber sites to identify particular VOD content provided uniquely to each of the subscriber sites, the identification information manipulated to preserve anonymity of the plurality of subscriber sites, manipulating at least a portion of the subscriber metering data to determine a first manipulated identifier to identify the first subscriber site, and using the first manipulated identifier to cross-reference the manipulated identification information included in the server metering data to merge the subscriber metering data and the portion of the server metering data uniquely associated with the first subscriber site. |
| US08381238B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
An information processing apparatus includes an image analyzing unit performing a process of analyzing an image shot by a camera, a voice analyzing unit performing a process of analyzing voice input from a microphone, and a data processing unit receiving inputs of an analysis result of the image analyzing unit and an analysis result of the voice analyzing unit and controlling information to be output to a user. The data processing unit determines an output mode of the information to be provided to the user based on user information obtained from at least either one of the image analysis result and the voice analysis result, and system state information, and outputs the information to the user in the determined output mode. |
| US08381235B2 |
Personal token having enhanced abilities for delivering HTML data
The invention relates to a personal token storing a javacard application code lying over an area of the memory of the personal token, the personal token being able to run such javacard application so as to deliver HTML page data to an external device for the external device to display an HTML page on the basis of the such delivered HTML page data, said personal token further storing data to be used as a constructing part of the HTML page, characterized in that the data to be used as a contributing part of the HTML page are in at least one file which is separate from the memory area over which the Javacard application code is lying, and the personal token is programmed for opening the at least one file storing the contributing part of the HTML page when such data are requested for delivering said HTML page data to said external device. |
| US08381234B2 |
System and method for managing applications having logical pointer and flag
A system for managing a application includes a clock unit outputting time signals, a storage unit storing an age table, a detection unit and a resetting unit. The application includes a logical pointer and a flag carrying a flag bit. The age table includes ordered logical headers and age values, each logical header associated with an age value, the logical pointer pointing to one logical header, the age value having an increment as the logical pointer moves forward along the logical headers. The detection unit receives the time signals and reads the flag bit and moves the logical pointer to a succeeding logical header with a first step if the flag bit changes and with a second step if the flag bit remains unchanged during interval between two time signals. The second step is larger than the first step. The resetting unit resets the flag bit. |
| US08381232B2 |
Information processing apparatus and computer usable medium therefor
An information processing apparatus is provided. The information processing apparatus includes an event detecting unit to detect events, an event notifying information generating unit to generate event notifying information, an event notifying information storage to store the event notifying information in a predetermined arrangement, a client information list storage to store information concerning the client device to which event information concerning each of the events is provided, a notifying unit to provide a piece of the event information corresponding to a first event to the client device, and a judging unit to judge whether the piece of the event information was provided to the client device normally. The notifying unit provides another piece of the event information corresponding to a second event, when the judging unit judges the precedent piece of the event information was provided to the client device normally. |
| US08381231B2 |
Deployment and management of virtual containers
A system virtualizes applications on a managed endpoint using containers. A managed endpoint receives a virtualized container from an IT automation appliance. The virtualized container includes an application and a virtualization module. The virtualization module includes computer program instructions for virtualizing the application. An operating system API call made by the application during execution is intercepted, and a portion of the computer program instructions are executed based on the operating system API call. The computer program instructions modify the behavior of the application to effect the file and data virtualization of the application. A virtualized container can be deployed and updated from an IT automation appliance along with an agent to support the deployment and updating of the virtualized container. |
| US08381230B2 |
Message passing with queues and channels
In an embodiment, a reception thread receives a source node identifier, a type, and a data pointer from an application and, in response, creates a receive request. If the source node identifier specifies a source node, the reception thread adds the receive request to a fast-post queue. If a message received from a network does not match a receive request on a posted queue, a polling thread adds a receive request that represents the message to an unexpected queue. If the fast-post queue contains the receive request, the polling thread removes the receive request from the fast-post queue. If the receive request that was removed from the fast-post queue does not match the receive request on the unexpected queue, the polling thread adds the receive request that was removed from the fast-post queue to the posted queue. The reception thread and the polling thread execute asynchronously from each other. |
| US08381228B2 |
Program code comprising a number of program code package groups stored on storage units
A software platform is provided for a hospital for example, wherein software modules (program code packages) are assigned in groups to different levels. In at least one embodiment, the presence of software interfaces allows software modules of different levels to be stored and run on different computer units with a data processing facility and storage unit, thus allowing communication between different levels by way of a data line. In at least one embodiment, this allows tasks to be moved out of the hospital, thereby saving costs. |
| US08381225B2 |
Automated processor reallocation and optimization between logical partitions
A method and system for reallocating processors in a logically partitioned environment. The present invention comprises a Performance Enhancement Program (PEP) and a Reallocation Program (RP). The PEP allows an administrator to designate several parameters and identify donor and recipient candidates. The RP compiles the performance data for the processors and calculates a composite parameter. For each processor in the donor candidate pool, the RP compares the composite parameter to the donor load threshold to determine if the processor is a donor. For each processor in the recipient candidate pool, the RP compares the composite parameter to the recipient load threshold to determine if the processor is a recipient. The RP then allocates the processors from the donors to the recipients. The RP continues to monitor and update the workload statistics based on either a moving window or a discrete window sampling system. |
| US08381224B2 |
Software virtual machine for data ingestion
In general, this disclosure is directed to a software virtual machine that provides high-performance transactional data acceleration optimized for multi-core computing platforms. The virtual machine utilizes an underlying parallelization engine that seeks to maximize the efficiencies of multi-core computing platforms to provide a highly scalable, high performance (lowest latency), virtual machine. In some embodiments, the virtual machine may be viewed as an in-memory virtual machine with an ability in its operational state to self organize and self seek, in real time, available memory work boundaries to automatically optimize maximum available throughput for data processing acceleration and content delivery of massive amounts of data. |
| US08381222B2 |
Policy driven automation—specifying equivalent resources
An autonomic computing system and method store a set of resource equivalencies in memory, select at least one resource equivalency from the set of resource equivalencies, and use the selected at least one resource equivalency for operating the selected resource as required by an autonomic computing system. The set of equivalent resources can contain a plurality of physically distinct resources that are logically equivalent. Resources are added or removed from the set automatically. Equivalent sets can be nested within an equivalent set. |
| US08381221B2 |
Dynamic heat and power optimization of resource pools
Method, computer program products and systems for conserving energy in data processing center, wherein a plurality of services are offered to a plurality of subscribed service consumers in a dynamic fashion, allowing a created service instance to be re-assigned from one to another server of the resources. Control parameters comprising power consumption and temperature of a group of resources are monitored. A workload may be assigned properties such as “hot” and “cold.” which are then assessed. A hot workload may be relocated to a cold spot, and if necessary, a cold workload may be relocated to a location which was de-loaded from a workload, that is, a hot spot, which is then considered to cool down due to addition of less workload in form of the cold workload. Thus, the energy required to cool the data center may be minimized. |
| US08381217B1 |
System and method for preventing resource over-commitment due to remote management in a clustered network storage system
A clustered network storage system includes a management module and a resource allocation mechanism configured to allow remote management of node resources from the management module while preventing resource over-commitment due to the remote management. Preventing resource over-commitment includes conditionally granting access to the resources of a node according to a credit based system. Preventing resource over-commitment further includes scheduling jobs that access the resources of the node according to a prioritization scheme. |
| US08381213B1 |
Method for dynamic management of system resources through application hints
A method, system and program product for dynamic management of system resources in a data storage system comprising producing a hint at a hint producer; wherein the hint contains information about the system, consuming the hint at a hint consumer, and determining, at the hint consumer, whether or not to act on the information in the hint. |
| US08381210B2 |
Method and computer for synchronous scheduling of multiple virtual CPUs
According to the present invention, a method and computer for synchronous scheduling of multiple virtual CPU is provided, which comprises: a guest operation system, comprising a first virtual CPU and a second virtual CPU; a first physical CPU and a second physical CPU; a virtual machine monitor, comprising: synchronous notifying module, for notifying, in a synchronous manner, the second physical CPU corresponding to the second virtual CPU after the second virtual CPU is determined to be synchronously operated with the first virtual CPU scheduled to the first physical CPU; and synchronous scheduling module, for scheduling the second virtual CPU out of the scheduling queue; wherein the second virtual CPU is operated on the second physical CPU. According the above technical solution, the synchronous scheduling of the multiple virtual CPUs belonging to the synchronous GOS can be achieved. The timeout problem in the prior art due to the unsynchronized operation of multiple VCPUs can thus be effectively solved, and the execution performance of the concurrent programs can be improved. |
| US08381200B2 |
System and method for converting graphical call flows into finite state machines
A method, system and module for automatically converting a call flow into a state-based representation are disclosed. The method comprises walking a call flow and converting each page of the call flow into a rule of a higher level representation of the call flow, augmenting the higher level representation with terminal symbols representing state variable assignments and comparisons associated with decision and computation shapes in the call flow and converting the higher level representation into a state-based representation. |
| US08381196B2 |
Code execution visualization using software fingerprinting
A system, method, and computer program for analyzing code execution and software performance characteristics are disclosed. Samples of executing code may be taken based on any of a number of various triggers. For example, samples may be triggered based on function calls, such as malloc calls. Alternatively, samples may be triggered based on occurrence of a specified event. Code execution is graphically displayed such that certain patterns may be easily identified. Multiple redundant function calls and areas of code having excessively deep function calls can be readily spotted. Such areas represent opportunities for performance optimization. |
| US08381195B2 |
Implementing parallel loops with serial semantics
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for implementing parallel loops with serial semantics. Embodiments of the invention provide a semantic transforms and codegen patterns that provide more efficient parallel loop implementations with serial loop semantics. Embodiments of the invention support assignments within for-loop bodies, support break/return constructs within for-loop bodies, and run transformations to covert serial constructs to parallel constructs. |
| US08381191B2 |
Intention based application customization
Intention based application customization is provided. When an application is launched, the components of the application are identified. A resource assigns a customized script to at least one component and on first access to that component supplied initial data values. On subsequent access attempts the data values are resupplied to the customized script to perform automated replay actions on behalf of the resource. |
| US08381189B2 |
Bug clearing house
A computer-implemented system for managing software problem reports includes a registration sub-system to register software developers from multiple different developer organizations; an application store that makes a plurality of applications from a plurality of application developers available for acquisition by members of the public; an application bug tracker programmed to receive reports of problems with applications distributed using the application store, to receive data regarding the problems, and to associate the data with a particular application or developer of the particular application; and a report generator to produce one or more problem reports for a developer that has provided one or more applications, the problem reports including information about the data regarding the problems relating to particular applications submitted to the application store by the developer. |
| US08381188B2 |
Leveraging the relationship between object IDs and functions in diagnosing software defects during the post-deployment phase
A hashing tool can be used to generate Object UIDs from a software application. The software application can be tested. A change and release management system can receive Object UIDs involved in a defect uncovered during the testing. The change and release management system can receive names of functions involved in the defect uncovered during the testing and defect fixing. A graphical representation of function names versus Object UIDs for which the defect occurred can be created. |
| US08381185B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for dynamic module flow analysis
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for analyzing code paths. In one embodiment, a starting point for one or more code paths within a listing of code is specified. The starting point may include code from which one or more code paths flow. An ending point is also specified for one or more code paths within the code, wherein the ending point includes code that is reachable via one or more of the code paths flowing from the starting point. Each code path flowing from the starting point to the ending point is determined by analyzing the listing of code without execution of the code. Information about the determined code paths is provided to a user. |
| US08381182B2 |
Approaches for meeting SMI duration limits by time slicing SMI handlers
Approaches that allow the context of an SMI task to be saved between SMIs. Upon entering an SMI handler for a task, a new task context stack is created. Thereafter, the SMI handler uses the task context, leaving the original stack unchanged. When the time limit for a single SMI is almost reached, the CPU is directed back to the original stack, and the task context stack persists in memory and retains the context of the task in hand. The soft SMI exits with an indication to signify that a new SMI should be invoked to continue processing. The entity that caused the first soft SMI then invokes another, passing in an indication to signify that this is a continuation of the prior task. On entering the SMI handler, the handler notes the request for continuation, switches to the saved task context stack and continues processing where it left off. |
| US08381178B2 |
Intuitive visualization of Boolean expressions using flows
The system and method in one aspect allow understanding of Boolean expressions by representing them graphically as a flow of information. NOTs are represented as switches in the flow, capturing the original structure of the expression as written by the user. Verification of those expressions with live data is also enabled. |
| US08381175B2 |
Low-level code rewriter verification
Verification of low-level rewriters such as binary rewriters involves “vanilla” rewriting a file to generate a rewritten low-level file without performing any optimization, compaction, or other substantive low-level code transformation during the rewrite. Then the metadata of the original low-level file is automatically compared with matching metadata of the rewritten low-level file for semantic equivalence. A properly functioning rewriter produces semantically equivalent files, whereas a defective rewriter may produce files whose metadata semantics differ. Comparison may distinguish composite metadata entities from self-contained metadata entities, and transitive closures of metadata may be compared. Comparison may also test for bitwise equality of self-contained metadata entities, and test for equality between respective flags, strings, fields, and/or methods of the original and rewritten files. Syntactic variants may be detected during comparison, and metadata may be converted into a canonical form to facilitate comparison. |
| US08381172B2 |
Method, apparatus, mobile terminal and computer program product for employing a form engine as a script engine
An apparatus for employing a form engine as a script engine may include a processor. The processor may be configured to determine whether an event relates to starting a form or running a script, employ a form engine having a user interface portion including user interface components in response to a determination that the event relates to starting the form, and adapt the form engine by providing a reduced user interface portion that does not create user interface components and does not generate user interface events in response to a determination that the event relates to running the script. A corresponding method and computer program product are also provided. |
| US08381167B2 |
Business service discovery
A business service discovery (BSD) system, implemented as programming on a processor, provides for discovering, formatting, and storing configuration information related to a business service. The BSD system uses a discovery engine to create a search methodology used for discovering the configuration information. The discovery engine controls a number of discovery components, each of which includes a definition of a corresponding BSD class model. The BSD system further includes a universal configuration management database (uCMDB) graph engine that creates a uCMDB graph representing a system discovered by the discovery component, and an input module that receives hints and conditions related to one or more elements of the business service, wherein a completed discovery search produces a business service structure. |
| US08381161B1 |
Method for providing a secure “gray box” view proprietary IP
A computer-implemented method identifies at least one proprietary geometric figure from a plurality of geometric figures within a design data layout format file. The proprietary geometric figure in the design data layout format file may be replaced with a placeholder geometric figure. Cell names and connection names associated with the proprietary geometric figure are renamed from a netlist file that defines electrical connections between the geometric figures with obfuscating names. A modified design data layout format file may be generated that includes the placeholder geometric figure and a modified netlist file including the obfuscating names. The modified file enables IC designers to complete their design and checking activities, but inhibits reverse-engineering of the proprietary geometric & netlist data. |
| US08381160B2 |
Manufacturing method, manufacturing program and manufacturing system for semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, including the steps of: acquiring information on a graphic composing a physical layout of a semiconductor integrated circuit; carrying out calculation for a transferred image in the physical layout; carrying out calculation for a signal delay based on the physical layout, and obtaining a wiring not meeting a specification having the signal delay previously set therein; and setting a portion into which a repeater is to be inserted based on at least one result of results obtained from the information on the graphic and calculation for the transferred image, respectively, with respect to the wiring not meeting the specification. |
| US08381157B2 |
Semiconductor device, adjustment method thereof and data processing system
A device includes a first semiconductor chip that includes a first memory cell array including a plurality of first memory cells, a first control logic circuit accessing the first memory cell array and producing a plurality of first data signals in response to data stored in selected ones of the first memory cells, a plurality of first data electrodes, and a first data control circuit coupled to the first control logic circuit and the first data electrodes. A second semiconductor chip includes a second memory cell array including a plurality of second memory cells, a second control logic circuit accessing the second memory cell array and producing a plurality of second data signals in response to data stored in selected ones of the second memory cells. The second control logic circuit is configured to store second timing adjustment information and to produce a second output timing signal. |
| US08381146B2 |
Computer product, apparatus, and method for correcting time delay variation of a circuit design
A computer-readable, non-transitory medium stores therein a design support program that causes a computer capable of accessing a storage device storing therein for each cell, an output voltage value of the cell, for each elapsed time period from a start of variation of an input voltage applied to the cell, to execute a process. The process includes extracting from the storage device, the output voltage value for each elapsed time period related to an cell under design selected from circuit information of a circuit under design; determining based on a specific voltage value, an extracted elapsed time period to be corrected; adding a time constant of an output from the cell under design to the elapsed time period determined to correction; and outputting the output voltage value for each corrected elapsed time period and the output voltage value for each elapsed time period that is not determined for correction. |
| US08381142B1 |
Using a timing exception to postpone retiming
A method for designing a system on a target device is described. In one embodiment of the method, a plurality of registers is replaced with at least one register and a timing exception. In one embodiment, the registers in the plurality of registers are in series or substantially in series. In one embodiment, the timing exception is a multi-cycle exception. In one embodiment, the method also includes identifying a critical combinational logic path that is followed or preceded by the plurality of registers. Further, in one aspect, the timing exception is removed and registers are inserted into the critical combinational logic path to account for the removed timing exception. In one embodiment, a network flow algorithm is performed to determine the locations for inserting registers. |
| US08381137B2 |
Explicit character filtering of ambiguous text entry
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for explicit filtering in ambiguous text entry. The invention provides embodiments including various explicit text entry methodologies, such as 2-key and long pressing. The invention also provides means for matching words in a database using build around methodology, stem locking methodology, word completion methodology, and n-gram searches. |
| US08381135B2 |
Proximity detector in handheld device
Proximity based systems and methods that are implemented on an electronic device are disclosed. The method includes sensing an object spaced away and in close proximity to the electronic device. The method also includes performing an action in the electronic device when an object is sensed. |
| US08381127B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for displaying windows on a graphical user interface based on relative priorities associated with the windows
Methods, systems, and computer program products for displaying windows on a graphical user interface based on relative priorities associated with the windows are disclosed. According to one method, relative priorities of a plurality of windows of a graphical user interface are determined. Further, relative priorities of a plurality of portions of at least one of the windows are determined. The windows are automatically arranged on the graphical user interface based on the relative priorities of the windows and based on the relative priorities of the portions. A higher priority window may cover a lower priority portion of a lower priority window to provide for a simultaneous viewing of the higher priority window and a higher priority portion of the lower priority window. |
| US08381122B2 |
Multi-dimensional application environment
A back surface is axially disposed from a viewing surface, and one or more side surfaces extend from the back surface to the viewing surface. An application content frame for an executing application is generated on the back surface. One or more application control elements for the execution application are generating on the one or more side surfaces. |
| US08381121B2 |
Controlling scroll speed to improve readability
A scrolling speed controlling system including a personal computer, a human interface device, an executable application, and a scroll speed adapter component. A user choosing to scroll an application window quickly may experience reduced readability of the information in the window because the speed at which the window is scrolling is too great to allow the user to identify or comprehend the information in the application window. A scroll speed adapter component make use of predetermined areas of interest to the user to control the scroll speed in such a way as to slow down scrolling as the area of interest approaches and speed up scrolling as the area of interest moves away. |
| US08381118B2 |
Methods and devices that resize touch selection zones while selected on a touch sensitive display
An electronic device includes a controller circuit that is configured to display selectable indicia on a touch sensitive display device. The controller defines a default size and location of a plurality of selection zones on the display device that are each associated with different ones of the displayed selectable indicia. The controller responds to a touch signal from the display device that identifies a first touch location of a user object by increasing the size of a first one of the selection zones that includes the first touch location. The controller responds to the touch signal identifying that the user object has ceased touching the display device at a second touch location, which is within the enlarged first selection zone but outside the default sized first selection zone, by outputting a first one of the selectable indicia that is associated with the first selection zone. |
| US08381115B2 |
Method of managing character fonts within multimedia scenes, and the corresponding computer program and terminal
A method is provided for managing fonts in a radio communication terminal, which can receive fonts in order to render contents on a screen. One such method involves the use of the following elements in the terminal, namely: a font database that lists all of the fonts or font portions stored by the terminal and matches at least one management parameter with each of the fonts; and set of font management commands including at least one command, which is applied to a font portion and which belongs to the group containing at least a command for transmitting a font portion for storage in the terminal, a command for updating a font portion stored in the terminal and a command for deleting a font portion stored in the terminal. |
| US08381111B2 |
Management apparatus, image forming apparatus, and service processing method
According to an instruction by a manager, information about the image forming apparatus to be monitored is set with the management server. A communication test is conducted between the management server and the image forming apparatus. The management server confirms an ID of the image forming apparatus. Subsequently, upon receiving a setting information request from the image forming apparatus, the management server responds with generated UI button information and access-destination information which can be extended by the UI button information to the image forming apparatus. |
| US08381109B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing bookmark information for content stored in a networked media server
A method and apparatus for managing bookmark information of a media server through a network based on the UPnP AV standard is disclosed. If a request for bookmarking a content item is made, a bookmark item is created and the created bookmark item is linked to the content item by adding the ID of the created bookmark item to the property information of the content item and recording the ID of the content item to be bookmarked in the created bookmark item. |
| US08381108B2 |
Natural user input for driving interactive stories
A system and method are disclosed for combining interactive gaming aspects into a linear story. A user may interact with the linear story via a NUI system to alter the story and the images that are presented to the user. In an example, a user may alter the story by performing a predefined exploration gesture. This gesture brings the user into the 3-D world of the displayed image. In particular, the image displayed on the screen changes to create the impression that a user is stepping into the 3-D virtual world to allow a user to examine virtual objects from different perspectives or to peer around virtual objects. |
| US08381107B2 |
Adaptive audio feedback system and method
Various techniques for adaptively varying audio feedback data on an electronic device are provided. In one embodiment, an audio user interface implementing certain aspects of the present disclosure may devolve or evolve the verbosity of audio feedback in response to user interface events based at least partially upon the verbosity level of audio feedback provided during previous occurrences of the user interface event. In another embodiment, an audio user interface may be configured to vary the verbosity of audio feedback associated with a navigable list of items based at least partially upon the speed at which a user navigates the list. In a further embodiment, an audio user interface may be configured to vary audio feedback verbosity based upon the contextual importance of a user interface event. Electronic devices implementing the present techniques provide an improved user experience with regard to audio user interfaces. |
| US08381103B2 |
Electronic device
When a jump instruction to display contents regarding a control out of contents in a help screen is given, if the jump instruction is given for a control with the same identification data as that of a control for which a preceding instruction is given, an explanation at a position next to a position of contents displayed in response to the preceding jump instruction is displayed on the help screen, out of the contents of a help data corresponding to the identification data of the control. If the jump instruction is given for a control with different identification from that of the control corresponding to the preceding jump instruction, an explanation at a head position, out of explanations in the help data corresponding to the identification data of the control for which the current jump instruction is given is displayed on the help screen. |
| US08381099B2 |
Flows for variable-data printing
A method, system and a computer program product for generating and printing documents 100, 110, 120 from a variable-data printing document template 130 comprising a layout of document portions 150, at least one of the document portions 150 comprising a flow that contains content which is variable in response to input data 140. There is provided a way of expressing and treating a flow across copy-holes (document portions comprising variable content) in different pages, thus enabling the creation of complex document designs for variable-data publishing material used in Digital Publishing. |
| US08381096B2 |
Managing list tailoring for a mobile device
A network device, system, and method are directed towards enabling list content to be displayed at mobile devices having different memory page size constraints. When a mobile device requests list content, a type of mobile device is determined. This may then be used to determine a page size weight classification for the mobile device. The requested list content may then be compared against the page size weight classification, and if it exceeds the page size weight classification, the list content may be tailored. In one embodiment, the list content may be tailored by segmenting the list content into multiple segments, each segment may be coupled with |
| US08381095B1 |
Automated document revision markup and change control
Automated comparison of Darwin Information Typing Architecture (DITA) documents for revision mark-up includes reading document data from first and second DITA documents into respective document object model trees of nodes, and identifying and collapsing emphasis subtree nodes in the trees into their parent nodes, the collapsing caching emphasis data from the identified subtree nodes. A preorder traversal transforms the model trees into respective pre-order node lists and captures adjacent sibling emphasis subtree nodes as single text nodes. The node lists are merged into a merged node list via a longest common subsequence process that recognizes matches node pairs having primary sort key information and document structure metadata meeting a match threshold, with differences between matching tokens of the node pairs saved. A merged document object model built from the refined merged node list is transformed into a hypertext mark-up language document. |
| US08381086B2 |
Synchronizing slide show events with audio
Technologies are described herein for synchronizing slide show events with audio. Data defining one or more animation events, slide transitions, or visual effects and an audio file to be played during the defined events is received. The audio file is processed to identify the audio events contained therein. Once the audio events in the audio file have been identified, the defined animation events are synchronized to the identified audio events using an audio synchronization scheme that includes data defining how the audio events are to be synchronized to the animation events. A user interface may be provided that allows a user to select an audio synchronization scheme to be applied to a presentation. A user interface may also be provided that allows a user to visually associate an animation event with any audio event identified within an audio file. |
| US08381077B2 |
Systems and methods for implementing error correction in relation to a flash memory
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems, methods and circuits for memories and utilization thereof. As one example, a memory system is disclosed that includes a flash memory device and a flash access circuit. The flash access circuit is operable to perform an error code encoding algorithm on a data set to yield an error code, to write the data set to the flash memory device at a first location, and to write the error code to the flash memory device at a second location. |
| US08381076B2 |
Variable sector-count ECC
Improved memory devices, circuitry, and data methods are described that facilitate the detection and correction of data in memory systems or devices by increasing the data area of user data being covered by the ECC code. This averages any possible bit errors over a larger data area and allows a greater number of errors to be corrected by a combining the ECC codes in the coverage area without substantially changing the overall size of ECC codes being stored over a single sector approach. In one embodiment of the present invention, the size of the data block utilized for ECC coverage is variable and can be selected such that differing areas of the memory array or data types can have a differing ECC data coverage sizes. It is also noted that the ECC algorithm, math base or encoding scheme can also be varied between these differing areas of the memory array. |
| US08381072B2 |
Cache memory, computer system and memory access method
A cache memory has a data holding unit having multiple cache lines each of which includes an address area, a data area and a dirty bit, and a controller which is given read data and a correction execution signal indicating whether or not error correction has been performed for the read data, the read data has been read from a memory storing error-correction-coded data, which also stores address information corresponding to the read data into the address area of any one of the multiple cache lines, stores the read data into the data area, and sets a predetermine value as the dirty bit on the basis of the correction execution signal. |
| US08381062B1 |
Proof of retrievability for archived files
A proof of retrievability (POR) mechanism is applicable to a file for providing assurances of file possession to a requesting client by transmitting only a portion of the entire file. The client compares or examines validation values returned from predetermined validation segments of the file with previously computed validation attributes for assessing the existence of the file. Since the archive server does not have access to the validation function prior to the request, or challenge, from the client, the archive server cannot anticipate the validation values expected from the validation function. Further, since the validation segments from which the validation attributes, and hence the validation values were derived, are also unknown to the server, the server cannot anticipate which portions of the file will be employed for validation. |
| US08381060B2 |
Communication device, communication system, reception method, and communication method
Provided is a communication device which performs a hybrid automatic repeat request process of requesting a transmission source to perform retransmission when an error is detected from a received signal. The communication device includes: a reception unit that receives a signal into which an initial transmission signal and a retransmission signal are multiplexed among signals including the initial transmission signal and the retransmission signal for any one signal; a detection order decision unit that decides an order of detection of the initial transmission signal and the retransmission signal from the signal received by the reception unit in response to the number of retransmissions of the initial transmission signal and the retransmission signal which are included in the signal received by the reception unit; and a signal detection unit that removes an interference component from the signal received by the reception unit by using a signal detected by the communication device according to the order decided by the detection order decision unit, and that detects the initial transmission signal and the retransmission signal. An increase of delay can be prevented when retransmission is repeated. |
| US08381059B2 |
Error correction and recovery in chained memory architectures
Electronic apparatus, systems, and methods to construct and operate the electronic apparatus and/or systems include a memory unit configured to receive data flow from two directions. The memory unit can be configured serially in a chain with other memory units. The chain can include an error check and correcting unit (ECC). Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08381057B2 |
Seamless change of retransmission and rescheduling queues in a communication system
A system and method for changing retransmission and rescheduling queues to support retransmission in a communications system is presented. A method for changing queue size values includes, for an increase in data rate, determining a new retransmission queue size value for a retransmission queue at the transmitting device and a new rescheduling queue size value for a rescheduling queue at the receiving device such that an amount of time for a DTU to enter and exit the retransmission queue is greater than a roundtrip delay. For a decrease in data rate, the method includes determining the new retransmission queue size value and the new rescheduling queue size value such that an amount of time for a DTU to enter and exit the retransmission queue is less than a maximum delay. Systems and methods for changing the retransmission and rescheduling queue sizes are also presented. |
| US08381055B2 |
System for communicating data in xDSL using data retransmission
An apparatus for transmitting data in an xDSL system is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a transmitter that sends data over an xDSL system in the form of a data transmission unit (DTU), the transmitter having physical media specific—transmission convergence (PMS-TC) communication sublayer. The apparatus may further include a retransmission unit that is implemented in the PMS-TC sublayer. The retransmission unit may include a retransmission buffer that stores and indexes transmitted DTUs in retransmit containers. The retransmit container may be defined as a time slot corresponding to a sent DTU, wherein the retransmission unit is configured to respond to a retransmission request indicating which stored DTU should be retransmitted. The stored DTU to be retransmitted may be identified by its corresponding retransmit container. |
| US08381054B2 |
Reception apparatus, reception method, and program
A reception apparatus that receives a signal, including, a correction section, an error detection section, a filtering section, and a setting section is provided. |
| US08381046B2 |
Method for preventing data shift errors and controller using the same
A method for preventing a data storage device from data shift errors is provided. First, data is encoded into an error correction code. The error correction code is then scrambled to obtain a scrambled code to be stored in a memory. The scrambled code is then retrieved from the memory to obtain first read-out data. The first read-out data is then descrambled to obtain a first descrambled error correction code. The first descrambled error correction code is then decoded to determine whether the first descrambled error correction code has uncorrectable errors. When the first descrambled error correction code has uncorrectable errors, the scrambled code stored in the memory is read again to output second read-out data without shift errors. Following, the second read-out data is then descrambled to obtain a second descrambled error correction code, and the second descrambled error correction code is then decoded to recover the data. |
| US08381045B2 |
Condition based detection of no progress state of an application
A method for condition based detection of a no progress state of an application are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A resource usage and an output of a set of applications including the application are monitored. The resource usage and the output are measured to determine a resource usage value and an output value at a first time. A present condition is detected under which the set of applications is executing. A determination is made whether the resource usage value is included in a sub-range of a resource usage scale and the output value is included in a sub-range of an output scale where the sub-range of the resource usage scale corresponds to the sub-range of the output scale for the present condition. The no progress state of the application is detected if the determination is negative. |
| US08381042B2 |
Method and apparatus for logging system characteristic data
A method for logging system characteristic data of a system is provided. The method includes receiving a plurality of system characteristic data points associated with a first time period of predetermined length, and generating a one or more first power sums from the plurality of system characteristic data points. |
| US08381036B2 |
Systems and methods for restoring machine state history related to detected faults in package update process
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for storing machine state history related to detected faults in a package update process. A classification tool can interface with a data store that can store machine state data on a client. The classification tool can record an initial machine state on the client and initiate a package update on the client. The classification tool can further record an updated machine state of the client subsequent to initiating the package update and detect a fault condition in the client subsequent to initiating the package update. The classification tool can examine the initial machine state and the updated machine state to categorize one or more causes of the fault condition as either related to the package update or to systemic conditions of the client. The classification tool can further notify a user of the client of the one or more causes of the fault condition. |
| US08381035B2 |
Information processing device for creating and analyzing log files
An information processing device may comprise a log file creating unit and a first storage controlling unit. The log file creating unit may be configured to create, each time information is input, one log file that includes log information indicating an input of the information. The storage controlling unit may be configured to store, each time the one log file is created, the one log file in a storage area. |
| US08381031B2 |
Distributed computing
On a typical motherboard the processor and memory are separated by a printed circuit data bus that traverses the motherboard. Throughput, or data transfer rate, on the data bus is much lower than the rate at which a modern processor can operate. The difference between the data bus throughput and the processor speed significantly limits the effective processing speed of the computer when the processor is required to process large amounts of data stored in the memory. The processor is forced to wait for data to be transferred to or from the memory, leaving the processor under-utilized. The delays are compounded in a distributed computing system including a number of computers operating in parallel. The present disclosure describes systems, method and apparatus that tend to alleviate delays so that memory access bottlenecks are not compounded within distributed computing systems. |
| US08381030B2 |
Business methods retry optimization
The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer implemented methods for retrying business methods at an application server after thrown exceptions. One process includes operations for invoking a business method of an enterprise bean hosted in an enterprise bean container. The operations further include determining whether retry conditions are satisfied after an exception is thrown during execution of the business method. The business method is invoked again based on a predefined retry policy when the retry conditions are satisfied. |
| US08381029B2 |
Processing method, storage system, information processing apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium storing program
A first information processing apparatus of multiple information processing apparatuses includes a second configuration information storage section storing second configuration information; a first configuration information modification section modifying first configuration information in the storage apparatus; a notification section notifying, a second information processing apparatus, of modified part information indicating a modified part in the first configuration information; a modified part information storage section storing the modified part information from the second information processing apparatus; and an updating section updating, before modifying the first configuration information in the storage apparatus, the modified part in the second configuration information indicated by the modified part information stored in the modified part information storage section, based on the first configuration information. Thus, when modifying setting on the storage apparatus from multiple information processing apparatuses, the integrity of the configurations is maintained, and the system can be deployed and operated at lower costs. |
| US08381028B2 |
Accelerating recovery in MPI environments
A computer usable program product for accelerating recovery in an MPI environment is provided in the illustrative embodiments. A first portion of a distributed application executes using a first processor and a second portion using a second processor in a distributed computing environment. After a failure of operation of the first portion, the first portion is restored to a checkpoint. A first part of the first portion is distributed to a third processor and a second part to a fourth processor. A computation of the first portion is performed using the first and the second parts in parallel. A first message is computed in the first portion and sent to the second portion, the message having been initially computed after a time of the checkpoint. A second message is replayed from the second portion without computing the second message in the second portion. |
| US08381025B2 |
Method and apparatus for dispersed storage memory device selection
A method begins when a dispersed storage (DS) processing unit of a DS unit has at least one of DS unit operational data and DS unit operating system algorithm to store. The method continues with the DS processing unit encoding at least a portion of the at least one of DS unit operational data and DS unit operating system algorithm in accordance with an error coding dispersal storage function to produce a plurality of data slices. The method continues with the DS processing unit storing at least some of the plurality of data slices in memory devices of the DS unit in accordance with the error coding dispersal storage function. |
| US08381022B2 |
Data storage with snapshot-to-snapshot recovery
Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatuses, systems, and computer software products for data storage. A first copy of a logical volume is created. A second copy of the logical volume is created based on the first copy of the logical volume, such that the first and second copies are represented by respective first and second sets of pointers to physical storage locations in which data used by the copies is stored. Responsively to a corruption of at least part of the data that is used by the first copy. The first copy is restored from the second copy by replacing the first set with the pointers in the second set. |
| US08381021B2 |
System and method for automated unattended recovery for remotely deployed intelligent communication devices
In one embodiment, an intelligent communications device for operating in a network is disclosed. The device includes a storage device having a plurality of partitions storing images for performing boot operations. The device also includes a detection module that is operative to detect a boot failure, and a first restoration module that is operative to restore an active image with a first backup image, in response to a detected boot failure from an active image. The device further includes a second restoration module that is operative to restore a second backup image in response to a detected boot failure after restoration from a first backup image. The device also includes a programmable processor that is programmed to cause execution of boot operations and functions performed by the detection module, first restoration module, and second restoration module. |
| US08381009B2 |
Device and method for power management
A device having power management capabilities and a method for power management, the method includes: providing a clock signal and a supply voltage to at least one component of a device; detecting a timing error; delaying by a fraction of a clock cycle and in response to the detected timing error, a clock signal provided to at least one of the components; and determining a clock signal frequency and a level of the supply voltage in response to at least one detected timing error. |
| US08381008B2 |
Method and protection device for a power network accounting for route switching in a telecommunication network
A protection device for a power network performs a method to align measuring times of first and second measurements of an electric quantity, taken at different ends of a power network line transmitted with measuring times via a telecommunication network. In the method, a send transmission time from the local to remote end of the line and a receive transmission time from the remote to local end of the line are determined based on time signals from internal clocks. After a global time reference to synchronize the internal clocks is lost, a clock drift is determined between the internal clocks. The measuring times of the first and the second measurements are aligned using the send and receive transmission times as well as the clock drift. A sudden change in the clock drift is determined in order to recognize a route switching in the telecommunication network and the clock drift is corrected. |
| US08381007B2 |
Data storage system with power backup mechanism
A data storage system with power backup mechanism includes a storage server, N pieces of power supply modules, a plurality of programmable logic devices and a control module. The storage server consumes M units of power in operation, and supports a storage bridge bay standard. The power supply modules respectively generate power for the storage server and a set of power-related signals, wherein the maximum power output of each of the power supply modules is equal to M/N−1 units. The programmable logic devices convert the power-related signals from the power supply modules to two sets of power condition signals. The control module monitors a power condition according to the power condition signals, thereby determining a power health condition of the storage server. |
| US08381006B2 |
Reducing power requirements of a multiple core processor
A mechanism is provided for reducing power consumed by a multi-core processor. Responsive to a number of properly functioning processor cores being more than a required number of processor cores in a multi-core processor, the power consumption measurement module determines a number of the properly functioning processor cores to disable. The power consumption measurement module initiates an equal amount of workload to be processed by each of the properly functioning processor cores. The power consumption measurement module determines power consumed by each of the properly functioning processor cores. The power consumption measurement module deactivates one or more of the properly functioning processor cores that have maximum power in order that the number of properly functioning processor cores deactivated is equal to the number of properly functioning processor cores to disable. |
| US08381004B2 |
Optimizing energy consumption and application performance in a multi-core multi-threaded processor system
A mechanism is provided for scheduling application tasks. A scheduler receives a task that identifies a desired frequency and a desired maximum number of competing hardware threads. The scheduler determines whether a user preference designates either maximization of performance or minimization of energy consumption. Responsive to the user preference designating the performance, the scheduler determines whether there is an idle processor core in a plurality of processor cores available. Responsive to no idle processor being available, the scheduler identifies a subset of processor cores having a smallest load coefficient. From the subset of processor cores, the scheduler determines whether there is at least one processor core that matches desired parameters of the task. Responsive to at least one processor core matching the desired parameters of the task, the scheduler assigns the task to one of the at least one processor core that matches the desired parameters. |
| US08381002B2 |
Transparently increasing power savings in a power management environment
A mechanism is provided for transparently consolidating resources of logical partitions. Responsive to the existence of the non-folded resource on an originating resource chip, the virtualization mechanism determines whether there is a destination resource chip to either exchange operations of the non-folded resource with a folded resource on the destination chip or migrate operations of the non-folded resource to a non-folded resource on the destination chip. Responsive to the existence of the folded resource on the destination resource chip, the virtualization mechanism transparently exchanges the operations of the non-folded resource from the originating resource chip to the folded resource on the destination resource chip, where the folded resource remains folded on the originating resource chip after the exchange. Responsive to the absence of another non-folded resource on the originating resource chip, the vitalization mechanism places the originating resource chip into a deeper power saving mode. |
| US08381001B2 |
Command processing apparatus which executes a process according to a command issued by an external device
A digital camera is provided with: a sub CPU started irrespective of a state of an SW group; and a main CPU and an HDMI-CPU which are started when the SW group is in an on state while stopped when the SW group is in an off state. The sub CPU repeatedly determines whether or not a wake-up command is issued from a digital television connected via an HDMI cable when the SW group is in the off state. Furthermore, the sub CPU changes the state of the SW group to the on state when a determination result relating to presence or absence of the wake-up command is updated from NO to YES. The HDMI-CPU and the main CPU that are started thereby execute a process according to a command issued from the digital television. |
| US08380997B2 |
Power supply of storage system
A storage system comprises multiple physical storage devices, and a power supply for the multiple physical storage devices. Each physical storage device requires an input of a first voltage and an input of a second voltage that is a lower voltage than the first voltage. The power supply comprises a first power supply circuit that is made redundant and a second power supply circuit that is made redundant. Each first power supply circuit outputs a first voltage, which is input to the respective physical storage devices. Each second power supply circuit outputs a second voltage to a storage device group (two or more physical storage devices of the multiple physical storage devices) corresponding to this second power supply circuit. Each second power supply circuit is isolated from a circuit board comprising the first power supply circuit. |
| US08380986B2 |
Method for analyzing simultaneously transmitted, encoded data streams
In a data stream individually encoded data stream (ds1 . . . n), data packets formed as key data packets (sp1 . . . n) are to be inserted, with which the data stream-individual key information (si1 . . . n) is transmitted with the associated data stream (ds1 . . . n). For analyzing and/or recording, at least one key data packet (sp1 . . . n) is searched for in the associated data stream (ds1 . . . n), and the data stream-individual key information (si1 . . . n) is determined. By means of the data stream-individual key information (si1 . . . n), the associated data stream (ds1 . . . n) is decoded. The generation and insertion of key information (si1 . . . n) can be achieved with minor administrative effort, thus considerably reducing the effort for the analysis or diagnosis (ds1 . . . n) of the simultaneously transmitted, encoded data streams (ds1 . . . n). Advantageously, the insertion of key data packets can only be activated or initiated if the diagnosis or analysis and/or recording of the data streams is currently carried out. |
| US08380984B2 |
Implicit certificate verification
A method of computing a cryptographic key to be shared between a pair of correspondents communicating with one another through a cryptographic system is provided, where one of the correspondents receives a certificate of the other correspondents public key information to be combined with private key information of the one correspondent to generate the key. The method comprises the steps of computing the key by combining the public key information and the private key information and including in the computation a component corresponding to verification of the certificate, such that failure of the certificate to verify results in a key at the one correspondent that is different to the key computed at the other correspondent. |
| US08380981B2 |
System and method that uses cryptographic certificates to define groups of entities
A system and method for issuing a cryptographic certificate includes describing one or more prerequisite condition on the cryptographic certificate. The one or more prerequisite conditions comprise membership in one or more prerequisite group of entities. An entity may be a participant, a resource or a privilege, etc. The present invention also requires naming one or more target groups of entities on the cryptographic certificate. One or more prerequisite group stakeholder that authorizes an entity in the one or more prerequisite group of entities to be added as members in another group of entities sign the cryptographic certificate. The cryptographic certificate is also signed by one or more target group stakeholders that authorizes an entity to be added as a member of the one or more target groups. Exemplary prerequisite conditions relate to one or more of a membership in another group of entities, a physical characteristic, a temporal characteristic, a location characteristic or a position characteristic, among others. |
| US08380979B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for invoking trust-controlled services via application programming interfaces (APIs) respectively associated therewith
A trust evaluation may be obtained for a network element in a communication network. Based on this trust evaluation, one or more services may be invoked to address the risk that a potentially untrustworthy network element poses in the communication network. Application programming interfaces (APIs) may automate the invocation of trust-controlled services, such as a traffic mirroring service for a network element, a traffic monitoring service for a network element, a traffic examination service for traffic associated with a network element, a traffic blocking service for traffic associated with a network element, a traffic storage service for traffic associated with a network element, a traffic logging service for traffic associated with a network element, an endpoint resource selection service for traffic associated with a network element, a midpoint selection service for traffic associated with a network element, a tunneling service for traffic associated with a network element, and/or an application management service for a network element. An API for a trust-controlled service may be used to directly perform a function on one or more resources in the communication network or may be used to set up an ongoing function on one or more resources in the communication network that may continue until the API is used to terminate the function. |
| US08380973B2 |
Method and apparatus to support separate operating systems in partitions of a processing system
A processing system with multiple processing units may support separate operating systems (OSs) in separate partitions. During an initialization process, a preboot manager in the processing system may copy software to a sequestered area of memory in the processing system. The preboot manager may also configure the processing system to hide the sequestered area of memory from a first partition of the processing system. Also, the preboot manager may use a first processing unit in the processing system to boot an OS on the first partition, and the preboot manager may transmit a boot trigger from the first processing unit to a second processing unit in the processing system. The boot trigger may cause the second processing unit to use the software in the sequestered area of memory to boot a second partition of the processing system. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08380972B2 |
Parallelizing multiple boot images with virtual machines
A system and method are presented for converting a multi-boot computer to a virtual machine. Existing boot images on a multi-boot computer are identified and converted into virtual machine instances. Each virtual machine instance represents an operating system and is capable of running at the same time. Finally, a new hosting operating system is installed. The new hosting operating system launches and manages the converted virtual machine instances. |
| US08380970B2 |
Apparatus and method to drive devices in order to enable rapid booting
A device driving apparatus includes a storage unit to store a plurality of device driving programs, a plurality of devices to receive the plurality of device driving programs, and a switching unit to transfer the plurality of device driving programs. |
| US08380966B2 |
Method and system for instruction stuffing operations during non-intrusive digital signal processor debugging
Techniques for the design and use of a digital signal processor, including (but not limited to) for processing transmissions in a communications (e.g., CDMA) system. Stuffing instructions in a processing pipeline of a multi-threaded digital signal processor provides for operating a core processor process and a debugging process within a debugging mechanism. Writing a stuff instruction into a debugging process registry and a stuff command in a debugging process command register provides for identifying a predetermined thread of the multi-threaded digital signal processor in which to execute the stuff instruction. The instruction stuffing process issues a debugging process control resume command during a predetermined stage of executing on the predetermined thread and directs the core processor to perform the stuff instruction during the debugging process. The core processor may then execute the stuffed instruction in association with the core processor process and the debugging process. |
| US08380960B2 |
Data allocation and replication across distributed storage system
In a distributed storage system such as those in a data center or web based service, user characteristics and characteristics of the hardware such as storage size and storage throughput impact the capacity and performance of the system. In such systems, an allocation is a mapping from the user to the physical storage devices where data/information pertaining to the user will be stored. Policies regarding quality of service and reliability including replication of user data/information may be provided by the entity managing the system. A policy may define an objective function which quantifies the value of a given allocation. Maximizing the value of the allocation will optimize the objective function. This optimization may include the dynamics in terms of changes in patterns of user characteristics and the cost of moving data/information between the physical devices to satisfy a particular allocation. |
| US08380959B2 |
Memory management system and method
A technique for managing memory allocation in an electronic device is provided. In one embodiment, a method includes loading a memory allocation strategy for an application executed by a processor of a device, and requesting memory for the application from various memory locations in accordance with the memory allocation strategy. In one embodiment, the device includes multiple sets of contiguous memory blocks and a memory heap, memory may be requested from at least one of these memory locations, and memory may then be allocated to the application in response to the request. In some embodiments, the memory allocation strategy may be stored in the device prior to execution of the application. Various other methods, devices, and manufactures are also provided. |
| US08380958B2 |
Spatial extent migration for tiered storage architecture
Provided are techniques for migrating a first extent, determining a spatial distance between the first extent and a second extent, determining a ratio of a profiling score of the second extent to the spatial distance, and, in response to determining that the ratio exceeds a threshold, migrating the second extent. |
| US08380957B2 |
Continuous data protection over intermittent connections, such as continuous data backup for laptops or wireless devices
A portable data protection system is described for protecting, transferring or copying data using continuous data protection (CDP) over intermittent or occasional connections between a computer system or mobile device containing the data to be protected, transferred or copied, called a data source, and one or more computer systems that receive the data, called a data target. CDP can be broken down logically into two phases: 1) detecting changes to data on a data source and 2) replicating the changes to a data target. The portable data protection system uses a method that performs the first phase continuously or near continuously on the data source, and the second phase when a connection is available between the data source and the data target. |
| US08380955B1 |
Method and system for naming replicated storage
Method and system for uniquely identifying a replicated copy of a storage volume is provided. A unique identifier is created by a storage system managing the replicated copy. The unique identifier includes a time stamp of when the identifier is being created, a system clock of the storage system and a unique address for an adapter that is used by the storage system. |
| US08380953B2 |
Control apparatus, method for controlling the control apparatus, and storage medium
A method completes background processing within a shortest possible time without degrading an efficiency of main processing executed in a system. The system includes a control apparatus including a plurality of hard disks and a memory controller configured to control an access to the hard disk. The memory controller changes a unit of the background processing, which is changed according to a state of a plurality of storage devices. In changing the unit of processing, the memory controller monitors the presence or absence of an access for the main processing coming from a main controller, and changes the unit of the background processing to a first unit of processing or to a second unit of processing, which is smaller than the first unit of processing according to a result of the monitoring. |
| US08380952B2 |
Storage system and data storage method using storage system which decides size of data to optimize the total of data size transfer efficiency
A secondary subsystem reads first differential data recorded in a magnetic tape device into a magnetic disk device, and manages such data based on second differential data that was created based on the read first differential data and differential management information. Then, whether differential data exists in partial data is determined based on the differential management information, and, if such differential data exists, the partial data is read into a cache memory, and differential data is applied to the partial data. Meanwhile, if differential data does not exist, the partial data is read into the buffer. Moreover, new full data is recorded by writing the partial data, which was read into the cache memory or the buffer, onto the magnetic tape device in parallel with other read processing. |
| US08380951B1 |
Dynamically updating backup configuration information for a storage cluster
Various embodiments of a system and method for updating backup configuration information used by backup software to perform backup operations for a storage cluster are described. Backup configuration information specifying a configuration of the storage cluster may be stored. Subsequently, a particular change to the configuration of the storage cluster may be automatically detected. In response to detecting the particular change, the backup configuration information may be automatically updated to reflect the particular change to the configuration of the storage cluster. Subsequent backup operations may then be performed using the updated backup configuration information. |